Vienna is known as the City of Dreams and is an ideal Christmas market venue. Its architecture, opulence and flair for music make it the obvious choice for millions of visitors each year. The Vienna Christmas Markets illuminate the Old Town and give the city a nostalgic and romantic feel. During Advent, around 25 different markets tempt customers with their seasonal treats and gifts.
The market in Vienna's festively illuminated old town adds to the romantic charm of Austria's beautiful capital, whilst up to 150 decorated stalls sell everything from Christmas handicrafts to aromatic berry punch at the main market on City Hall Square. Other highlights include the Christmas Village at Belvedere Palace, the Spittelberg Christkindlmarket and the market on the stunning Schönbrunn Palace.
One of the season's most popular events is the 'Magic of Advent' at the traditional Vienna Christmas Market in City Hall Square, also known as the Wiener Christkindlmarkt, at Rathausplat. The beautiful setting for this market makes it the most favoured in Vienna and it's easy to know why when you see that it features dozens of large Christmas trees and an ice-skating rink. The market sells beautiful trinkets and handmade goods, as well as cakes, biscuits and Vienna's traditional Christmas drink, an aromatic berry punch.
The Altwiener Christkindlmarkt at the Freyung is slightly off the beaten track but worth a visit and it retains all of its Viennese charm. A varied cultural program with an emphasis on music makes it unparalleled in its Christmas atmosphere and ambience.
A highlight throughout the year, but especially the during Advent season, is the stunning Schönbrunn Palace. As the former summer residence of the Austrian Emperors, the palace provides another spectacular backdrop for an idyllic Christmas market. Here, you can look for traditional Austrian handicrafts while carol singers add to the cheerful atmosphere.
