The ULTIMATE Guide to Vienna at Christmas: Where to Stay, What to Do, & the Best Markets

Vienna is one of the most beautiful cities any time of year, but at Christmas? Wow. The whole city glows. The chandelier-style lights draped across the main shopping street leading to St. Stephen’s Cathedral are honestly some of the most elegant decorations I’ve ever seen, and everywhere you look, there are strings of twinkling lights turning historic squares into holiday postcards.

I’ve been lucky enough to experience Vienna at Christmas twice now, once with my family and once while visiting a friend, and both times I was completely swept up in the holiday cheer. There’s just something about sipping mulled wine in front of a palace or wandering through cobblestone alleys lined with festive stalls that makes the city feel extra magical.

So I pulled together everything I know to create the ultimate guide to Vienna at Christmas. From the best areas to stay, to festive things to do, to which Christmas markets are actually worth your time, consider this your go-to for planning a holiday trip to the Austrian capital.

My Experience Visiting Vienna at Christmas

The first time I visited Vienna at Christmas, I had absolutely no clue what I was supposed to see or do. My only plan was simple: eat schnitzel and drink enough Glühwein to last me until the next holiday season. That year, the weather decided to be tricky, it rained more often than not, and I ended up buying waterproof boots because my poor tennis shoes were completely soaked.

But like always, it all worked out. Vienna is a city of gorgeous palaces, grand museums, and cafés that practically beg you to hide inside with a coffee and a slice of cake. So when the rain hit, we ducked indoors for “educational purposes” (and dessert). Then, as soon as the skies cleared, we were back outside wandering Christmas markets and eating our way through the city.

Last year I got to return, this time to visit one of my best friends who lives in Vienna. It was early December, I still hadn’t bought a single Christmas present, and we made it our mission to combine festive fun with holiday shopping. We explored smaller, more local markets, picked up artisan crafts, and experienced a different side of the city’s holiday magic together.

Both trips were completely different but equally special, and they gave me a much better idea of how to make the most of Vienna at Christmas. So now, I’m sharing everything I wish I’d known before going, and everything I’ve learned along the way.

Travel Tips and Things to Know Before Visiting Vienna at Christmas 

1. The markets open early — Most Vienna Christmas markets typically start around mid November and run until December 23 or 24. A few will stay open into the New Year, but the main Christmas vibe wraps up before Christmas Day in Vienna.

2. The city is crowded — Vienna is not a hidden gem, and Christmas is one of the most popular times to visit the city. It’s not just the markets that get packed; the whole city feels buzzing in December. At one point, I was shoulder-to-shoulder in a sea of people walking toward St. Stephen’s Cathedral. The bigger markets (like Rathausplatz) are especially busy in the evenings and on weekends, so aim for weekday afternoons if you want a little more breathing room.

3. Locals aren’t exactly warm and fuzzy — Viennese people are famously not the friendliest. In cafés or restaurants, it’s normal for waiters to ignore you a little. Don’t take it personally, it’s just who they are.

4. Book early — Hotels and even dinner reservations book up fast during the Christmas season. If you’ve got your heart set on staying central or eating at a popular spot, lock it in as early as possible.

5. It can get very cold (and sometimes wet) — December in Vienna means chilly days, frosty nights, and the occasional rainy spell. Bring warm layers, gloves, and shoes that can handle slush; you’ll be outside a lot. I ended up buying these short hunter boots, and they were excellent for our whole European trip!

6. Cash is still king (but cards are accepted too) — Most restaurants and shops in Vienna will happily take cards, but many Christmas market stalls are cash only, especially for food and drinks. Keep some small bills and coins handy so you’re not stuck hunting for an ATM.

7. There’s more than just markets — Vienna at Christmas is magical, but don’t forget the rest of the city. Palaces, concerts, museums, and cafés all add to the festive experience, and they’re a great warm-up break when the cold hits.

The Ultimate Guide to Christmas in Vienna

Alright, now that you know a bit more about what to expect when heading to Vienna in December, let’s get into all the good stuff. 

From where to base yourself, to the most festive things to do, to which Christmas markets are worth your time, here’s everything you need to plan the most magical trip possible.

Where to Stay in Vienna at Christmas

Innere Stadt (1st District) // The Best Place to Stay in Vienna at Christmas

If you want to be in the middle of it all, this is the place to stay. The Innere Stadt (Vienna’s Old Town) puts you within walking distance of the biggest Christmas markets, Rathausplatz, Am Hof, and Freyung, plus all the main sights like St. Stephen’s Cathedral and the Opera House. It’s busy, but if your dream is to step outside your hotel and be right in the action, this is the spot.

My Favorite Hotels in 1st District at Christmas

• Pension Central – budget-friendly stay in the heart of Vienna, simple but super central.
• Hotel Palais Mailberger Hof – stylish, comfy beds, amazing breakfast, and even a sauna.

Neubau (7th District) // Best Place to Stay in Vienna for a Local Vibe

If Innere Stadt feels a little too polished, Neubau is your spot. It’s Vienna’s artsy, creative district, full of independent shops, cool cafés, and a younger crowd. It’s also home to the Museum Quartier and the Karlsplatz Art Advent market, one of the most unique in the city. 

The Spittelberg Christmas Market is nearby too, winding through cobblestone alleys with a cozy, local feel. Neubau is still central (you can walk or hop on the tram to the Old Town), but it has more of a laid-back, creative vibe.

My Favorite Hotels in 7th District at Christmas

• The Weekend Hotel – bright, modern rooms, amazing breakfast, and just steps from the metro.
• Hotel Sans Souci Wien – elegant, spacious, with a spa and indoor pool right by the MuseumsQuartier and the Karlsplatz Art Advent Market.

Wieden (4th District) // Best Area to Stay in Vienna at Christmas with Kids

This is where we stayed, and honestly, it was perfect for us. While there aren’t Christmas markets right outside your door, the neighborhood itself feels super local and you’re just a quick tram or U-Bahn ride to both the city center and Schönbrunn Palace. 

It’s a really nice balance, close to everything without being stuck in the middle of the tourist crowds. Plus, the Naschmarkt (Vienna’s big outdoor food market) is right here, and most of the restaurants have heaters and blankets to warm up with a glass of wine on a chilly December night. 

My Favorite Hotel in 4th District at Christmas

• Radisson Blu Das Triest Hotel – spacious rooms, huge bathrooms, and just minutes from the metro. (Where we stayed the first time in Vienna)
• Hotel Kaiserhof Wien – timeless Vienna charm with elegant rooms and a classic breakfast spread.

Check out my full guide on Where to Stay in Vienna here!

Things to Do in Vienna at Christmas

Vienna in December is more than just markets (though let’s be real, those are the main event). The whole city transforms into a winter wonderland with festive lights, concerts, and cozy cafés that feel like a warm hug after hours in the cold.

Here are a few can’t-miss experiences in Vienna:

See Schönbrunn Palace all lit up – The palace looks straight out of a fairy tale in winter, and the Christmas market in front makes it even more magical.

Go ice skating at Rathausplatz – The rink here winds through the trees and is one of the prettiest in Europe. Even if you don’t skate, I recommend visiting for the atmosphere and all the Christmas lights strung up in front of city hall.

Catch a classical concert – Vienna goes all out in December with festive concerts, from Mozart and Strauss evenings to Christmas specials in beautiful halls.

Warm up in a traditional café – When your toes are frozen, nothing hits like slipping into Café Central or Demel for hot chocolate and cake.

Drink Weihnachtspunsch – Everyone grabs glühwein, but make sure you try punsch at one of the markets. It’s sweeter, spicier, and comes in endless flavors.

Go shopping on der Graben – The lights strung across this elegant shopping street are some of the best in the city. Even if you’re just window shopping, it’s magical at night.

✨ Want even more ideas? Check out my full list of 15 Best Things to Do in Vienna for everything from museums to hidden gems.

Best Christmas Markets in Vienna Austria

There are literally so many markets in Vienna that you could probably spend your whole trip hopping from one to the next and still not see them all!

But if you only have a few days, these are the ones that I’ve personally visited and recommend for your Christmas in Austria:

Rathausplatz (Vienna Christmas World)

This is the most popular one and the first one I went to. The skating rink winds through the trees, there’s a giant Christmas tree that looks like it belongs in a movie, and the sheer number of stalls is overwhelming in the best way. It’s crowded, but you have to see it at least once.

Schönbrunn Palace Market

My personal favorite. The palace lit up at night is pure magic, and the market here is perfect for families, there are ice games, a Ferris wheel, and loads of stalls for food and drinks. It’s a little calmer than Rathausplatz, which makes it feel extra cozy.

Belvedere Palace Market

You will most likely be visiting the Belvedere palace anyways as it’s one of the most popular things to do in Vienna, so why not have a Gluhwein and some roasted chestnuts while you’re at it! It’s a little bit smaller, and less kid friendly, but a great market to break up sight seeing.

Am Hof Christmas Market

Right in the heart of the old town, Am Hof is one of the more central markets and a great spot to pick up artisan gifts. It has a mix of traditional food stalls and handmade crafts, plus it’s super easy to swing by while exploring the Innere Stadt.

Karlsplatz Art Advent

My friend actually brought me to this market and it was so fun. It’s a little quirky, artsy, and a bit of a different vibe to the other markets in Vienna. Everything sold here is handmade, and the setting in front of Karlskirche makes it one of the prettiest spots in the city.

✨ Want the full scoop? I’ve put together a complete guide to theTop 5 Christmas Markets in Vienna with tips on what dates they’re open, opening times, and where they’re located.

What to Eat and Drink in Vienna at Christmas

Half the fun of the Christmas markets is wandering from stall to stall, snack in one hand and drink in the other. Here are some of the best things to try while you’re there:

Glühwein – The classic hot spiced wine that keeps everyone warm. Each market does it a little differently, so it’s worth sampling a few versions (all in the name of research).

Weihnachtspunsch – Sweeter and fruitier than glühwein, with flavors like apple-cinnamon or berry. Most markets also have kid-friendly, alcohol-free versions so everyone can join in.

Kaiserschmarrn – Fluffy shredded pancakes with powdered sugar and fruit compote. The famous spot Demel, right outside St. Stephen’s Cathedral, is worth the line as it moves fast!

Raclette Bread – A slab of molten cheese scraped straight onto fresh bread. Gooey, indulgent, and basically essential market food.

Spätzle – This is one of my favorite things to get at the Christmas Markets. It’s cheesy, buttery little noodles topped with crispy onions. The ultimate warm-you-up comfort food on a cold night.

Germknödel – A giant dumpling stuffed with plum jam, then topped with melted butter and poppy seeds. I got this at the Schönbrunn Palace market and it was awesome! So fluffy, and so much butter! I highly recommend. 

Maroni – Roasted chestnuts, simple and traditional. You’ll smell them before you spot the stand.

Sausages (Würstel) – A Vienna street food staple year-round, but even better with mustard and bread on a freezing December night.

The portions are generous, so I recommend going with friends and family to share a few things, that way you can try more without tapping out too early.

What to Wear and Pack for Vienna at Christmas

Waterproof shoes – Between snow, rain, and slush, your feet will thank you. Boots with good grip are best, and pair them with warm socks. I wore these waterproof boots, and they were amazing!

Gloves – Essential when you’re walking around for hours with a hot mug in hand. These touchscreen gloves make it easier to take photos, too.

Scarf – Vienna can get windy in winter, and a big cozy scarf makes a huge difference. I recommend getting one that’s not super thick, and it can tuck inside of your coat, like this one!

Beanie – Keep your ears covered and the heat in. Pack a few or even buy one at the markets, they have loads of options!

Layers – Temperatures can swing a lot, especially when you go from outdoor markets to palaces or cafés. Think sweaters under a warm coat, maybe a thermal layer, and a cardigan you can shed indoors. I found this thin puffer vest last year, and it was an actual game changer. It keeps you from looking puffy, and you’ll be warm!

Thermal socks – Not glamorous, but life-changing if you’re planning long days of walking and sipping glühwein.

Reusable shopping bag – Handy for market goodies, crafts, or snacks you pick up along the way.

Power bank – You’ll be taking a LOT of photos and videos of lights, markets, and everything in between. And if you’re using it for Google Maps, prepare for it to die. 

Lip balm & moisturizer – Cold air plus wind plus winter heating can wreck your skin. I love this aquaphor lip balm in the winter. 

FAQ: Visiting Vienna at Christmas

Is Vienna worth visiting at Christmas?

Absolutely. The city feels like it was built for Christmas, with sparkling markets, cozy cafés, and historic streets covered in lights. Even if you’re not usually a holiday person, the atmosphere is contagious.

How many days do you need in Vienna at Christmas?

Three days is a sweet spot. It gives you time to see the main sights, wander through a few different Christmas markets, and still have time to warm up in a café or two. If you’ve got longer, even better, you can add day trips to places like Salzburg or Wachau Valley.

How expensive is Vienna during Christmas?

Vienna isn’t the cheapest city in Europe, and December can be pricier because it’s peak season. Expect higher hotel rates, but food and drinks at the markets are pretty reasonable (around €5–7 for glühwein or punsch). Budget-friendly apartments and public transport help keep costs down.

Is Christmas a good time to visit Austria?

Yes! The whole country turns festive in December. Vienna has the biggest and most famous markets, but places like Salzburg, Innsbruck, and Hallstatt are also magical this time of year.

Where to go in Austria at Christmas?

Vienna is a must, but if you have extra time, head to Salzburg for its charming Old Town markets, Innsbruck for mountain views, or Hallstatt for a fairy-tale alpine vibe. Each has its own unique twist on the season.

Final Thoughts on Visiting Vienna at Christmas Time

​​You’re about to have the time of your life in Vienna at Christmas. Between all the delicious treats, twinkling lights, and festive sights, it truly is one of the most magical places to be this time of year. No matter where you stay or which markets you end up exploring, you’re going to have an amazing time.

But if you want to make the absolute most of visiting Vienna in December, check out my 3-day Vienna itinerary; it’s packed with Christmas stops, festive sights, and plenty of spots to eat, drink, and soak in that holiday cheer.

Check Out My Other Vienna Travel Guide

How Many Days in Vienna: My Day by Day Vienna Guide

Is Vienna Worth Visiting: My Honest Review

Restaurants in Vienna: My 13 Favorite Places to Eat

Where to Stay in Vienna: My Top Areas and Hotels

Things to Do in Vienna Austria: My Top Activities

Vienna Christmas Markets: My Top Christmas Markets in Vienna

Check Out My Other Austria Travel Guides

Is Austria Worth Visiting: My Honest Review

Christmas Europe Itinerary: My Perfect 2 Week Itinerary