Christmas in Vienna:
16 things to know before you visit

Vienna truly becomes a winter wonderland during the Christmas season: festive lights, decorations everywhere, and holiday markets that invite you to wander, shop, and enjoy. Whether you’re already familiar with the city or it’s your first visit, Vienna in Advent has a unique charm, In this article, you’ll learn a few tips to make your stay even more magical.

1. No Entry Fees for Vienna’s Christmas Markets

Nearly all of Vienna’s Christmas markets are free to enter without buying a ticket. Only one I know of charges admission: the Advent Market at the Museum of Military History. Some markets even offer free concerts, like the Christkindlmarkt in front of City Hall. You’ll need to pay for extras like ice skating, carousel rides, or curling, but strolling through and soaking in the festive vibes won’t cost a thing!

2. Around 20 Christmas Markets in Vienna to Explore

With about 20 Christmas markets in Vienna, you’ll have plenty of choices! Many of them are in the city center and in front of Vienna’s most beautiful buildings like Schönbrunn Palace, the City Hall, St. Charles Church or Belvedere Palace.

My tip: If your time is limited, it’s worth planning ahead to see your favorites and still have time to explore other parts of the city. Visiting every market in one day is nearly impossible, so focus on a few top picks for a truly memorable experience.

3. Don’t miss out on the smaller markets

While the larger Christmas markets are stunning, the smaller ones have their own unique charm. My favorite? The Altwiener Christkindlmarkt on Freyung. It’s a cozy, traditional market that captures the spirit of the season perfectly.

My tip: There’s a lovely stand at the Christkindlmarkt Freyung (almost like a tiny shop you can step into) that has beautiful ornaments, figurines, and decorations. Every year, I pick out a special piece for my tree!

4. Expect crowds at the Christmas markets

Vienna is especially popular around Christmas, so the markets can get very crowded. Weekends and evenings are especially busy, and the closer it gets to Christmas, the busier it becomes.

My tip: If you can, go in the morning or early afternoon and try to avoid weekends. Some markets are especially magical in the evening when the lights come on, so I like to go there at around 4 p.m., when it’s starting to get dark but isn’t yet as crowded.

5. Bring Cash – Credit Cards aren’t always accepted

Credit cards are widely accepted in Vienna, but at the Christmas markets, cash-only stalls are still common. So it’s a good idea to have some with you . Imagine finding the perfect Christmas gift and not being able to buy it! Most markets now have ATMs if needed, but be aware of fees!

6. Beautiful Christmas Lights Throughout the City

Vienna’s city center (and some streets in other districts) is beautifully lit during the Christmas season! From mid November, lights sparkle in the evenings, creating a festive holiday atmosphere. The huge chandeliers on Graben and the many lights on Kohlmarkt are definitely my highlights! But my absolute favorite decoration is the big red bow on the building at the corner Kärntner Straße/Walfischgasse, right across from the opera house.

Take a stroll down Rotenturmstrasse to see the giant red baubles or head to Neuer Markt to see the elegant Sisi stars, it’s worth wandering through the streets and getting lost in the holiday glow.

7. Pack warm clothes

Vienna winters can be quite chilly, and it even snows sometimes. Plus, it’s often very windy. So be sure to pack a warm coat or jacket, scarf, hat, gloves, and especially warm shoes. Christmas markets just aren’t as much fun if you’re freezing. And if it does get too cold, you still have tip #8 to warm up!

8. Cozy Cafés – perfect for warming up

Vienna’s coffeehouse culture is legendary, with a huge variety of cafés to suit every taste. If you’re feeling chilly after strolling around the Christmas markets (or really anytime), there’s nothing better than warming up with a hot chocolate, coffee or tea. A slice of cake or strudel makes the coffeehouse visit just perfect.

My tip: My favorite café is Café Gerstner, right across from the State Opera. I love the atmosphere, and their cakes are simply delicious.

9. Christmas markets are more than just mulled wine

The Christmas markets in Vienna have so much more than just punch and mulled wine stands. At Rathausplatz, you can go ice skating, some markets feature Christmas concerts, you can take a ride on the Ferris wheel or try your hand at curling. For children, there are craft stations, carousels, and Christmas story readings. And, of course, let’s not forget the many stalls where you can buy Christmas decorations, ceramics, gifts, and much more.

10. Check Christmas Market Opening Hours

Most markets open in the morning, but a few start later in the afternoon or are only open from Thursday to Sunday (like the one at Gartenpalais Liechtenstein or Blumengärten Hirschstetten). Some markets start as early as November 6, most other markets on November 14 a week later. It’s worth double-checking hours before you head out!

11. Christmas Eve and holiday hours for Christmas Markets

Opening hours vary during the holidays, some markets close on December 23, while others stay open through Christmas and into the New Year, like the Schönbrunn Christmas Market. All markets close early on Christmas Eve, usually by mid-afternoon.

12. Book restaurants in advance for Christmas Eve

In Austria, we traditionally celebrate Christmas at home on the evening of December 24th. That’s why many restaurants and cafés are closed or close early on this day. If they’re open, they often serve only special set menus. So, if you’re in Vienna on December 24th, it’s best to plan ahead and make a reservation early.

13. Christmas in Vienna is more than just Christmas Markets

During the holiday season, Vienna has so much more to offer than just Christmas markets. Hotels, restaurants, and rooftop bars draw you in with cozy punch terraces and stunning views. Streets are festively lit, and cafés welcome you with their warm atmosphere. Or how about a round of ice skating or curling? If you’re in the mood for culture, there are countless museums, historic sites, theater performances, and classical concerts to enjoy.

14. Watch out for pickpockets

Unfortunately, pickpockets are also out and about during the Christmas season and sometimes take advantage of the crowds at the Christmas markets. So, keep a close eye on your valuables, especially in crowded areas. A little tip: wear your backpack in front or carry your bag with the clasp facing inward against your body.

15. Use public transport

Vienna has an excellent public transportation network, perfect for avoiding traffic jams and parking hassles. Especially during the pre-Christmas season, Vienna’s streets can get very busy, and you’d probably rather spend your time at a Christmas market than looking for a parking spot!

16. Museums and sights open on holidays

December 25th and 26th are public holidays in Austria – so stores and many restaurants and cafés will be closed. But don’t worry! Most museums and attractions, like Schönbrunn Palace, remain open, and some Christmas markets invite you to keep strolling and enjoying the holiday spirit.

Whether you’re exploring Vienna’s large or cozy Christmas markets, visiting the city’s famous landmarks, or strolling through the festive, illuminated streets, Vienna has something special for everyone during the holiday season. With these tips, you’re all set to fully enjoy Vienna in Advent. If you have any questions, feel free to send me a message!