We decided to take a last-minute trip to visit Vienna Christmas markets. We booked two nights in a hotel very near to the main Vienna station, which ended up being the perfect location to do as much exploring as possible.
We arrived in Vienna on 17th November and were due to leave on 19th November. I chose these dates in particular as I wanted to get into the Christmas spirit early and with the majority of the Christmas markets opening that weekend, it felt like the perfect time to visit! Vienna is famous for their beautiful Christmas markets, alongside the amount of Christmas markets that are placed throughout the city and I can assure you that they did not disappoint. Over the period of 3 days we ended up visiting over 8 (!!) Christmas markets, alongside an evening trip to Bratislava, Slovakia. Looking back at it, I'm not sure how we fitted it all in but Vienna has been on my list for a long time and now, whilst I'm trying to get my country tally up due to the last two years of not being able to travel, it felt like the perfect time to visit and make the most out of our 3 days in this incredible city.
Below is a list of some of the Christmas markets we visited alongside a brief explanation of what to expect on your visit.
Am Hof
Am Hof is a short walk from the main Vienna shopping facilities and is one of the smaller markets. However, don't let this put you off as it is definitely worth a visit for the delicious hot dogs and christmassy aroma of roasted chestnuts. This market also has a variety of stalls selling handmade crafts that are perfect for memorabilia or for a last-minute Christmas present for the family.
Stephansplatz
It is hard to miss Stephensplatz Christmas market due to the large and beautifully decorated Christmas tree placed outside the equally impressive Stephansdom Cathedral. This market is more of a handmade Christmas market with lots of sellers parading their beautiful artwork and craftsmanship. There is a lack of food within this Christmas market however, due to being so close to the main Vienna shopping area, you will not struggle to locate food nearby.
Weihnachtsdorf on Maria-Theresien-Platz
This Christmas market was probably my favourite! Unfortunately I was leaving Vienna on the day it opened, so I didn't get very much time to explore before having to leave to catch my flight. However, I was able to make the most of my short time there by tasting multiple different cheeses and enjoy some roasted chestnuts. The market is sandwiched between two museums with beautiful architecture and looking around, you are sure to feel Christmassy with all of the stunning decorations and lights beautifully placed throughout the market. This market is a decent size with lots of side routes filled with markets, so I personally would give yourself a couple of hours to fully be able to appreciate this wonderful market.
Belvedere
Belvedere Christmas market is outside the main Vienna area and nearer the train station so it is important to note that it is worth planning a visit accordingly. There are lots of tram and buses that travel to this area so you won't be short of ways to get there.
It is a recurring theme in Vienna for their Christmas markets to be located outside beautiful architecture and Belvedere market is no exception. Located in front of Belvedere Palace, there is lots of beautiful scenery to be witnessed, including the Palace gardens which are situated to the back of the Palace, a short walk from the Christmas market out front. This Christmas market is compact with lots of markets effortlessly placed next to each other and the welcoming smell of mulled wine is overwhelming. I enjoyed this Christmas market however there are a lot of the same stalls so there isn't very much variety of food/drink. Although in this Christmas market, we drank the most delicious mulled wine in beautiful christmassy boots, which is a memory that I won't be forgetting in a hurry.
Christkindlmarkt am Rathausplatz
This is the main Vienna Christmas market and is full of beautiful and Christmassy decorations which are sure to get the whole family in the Christmas spirit. This market is also home to the most impressive ice rink that I have ever seen, with twists and turns and a large area to show off your skills. There is also a large variety of food and drink available including candy floss, chocolate fruit, multiple sweet stalls selling the most delicious looking sweet treats and of course, various different roasted chestnut stalls. There is also plenty of punch and mulled wine available throughout the market which adds to the festive sights and smells of this incredible market.
Karlsplatz
This is an arts Christmas market, filled with beautiful decorations and artistry created by imaginative minds. The market is quite big and is spread out over a large space. There is plenty of food and drink within this market and a large hay bale in the centre, which is sure to keep children entertained. The market is located outside the Karlskirche church, with beautiful lights hanging throughout. This Christmas market is a must visit for fans of art, alongside anybody who appreciates the beauty of unique and handmade gifts. A quick google search will show that this Christmas market is a competitor for the title of 'best Christmas market' in Vienna and after a visit, you will definitely realise why this stunning market is up there with the best.
Wintermarkt at the Riesenradplatz (Prater)
Prater amusement park is a must-visit when in Vienna and if you are lucky enough to visit around Christmas time, then you have an added bonus of being able to explore the festive markets that are placed outside and around Prater.
These markets include lots of festive treats and colourful lights which are sure to attract the attention of all who visit. The amusement park is also free to visit so is definitely worth a trip when you are in Vienna. The wheel has become a famous sight of Vienna with beautifully lit up sheds attached to the charming landmark and stunning festive decorations located throughout the park.
Whether you decide to visit the above Christmas markets or not, I am certain that you will find something for everyone in Vienna and I can assure you that you will not be short of beautiful Christmas scenery to see. A plus side about the Vienna Christmas markets is that the majority of them are located outside famous historical sites, therefore even if the whole family is not keen on visiting Christmas markets, they will be able to find the joy in seeing Vienna's stunning architecture.