Few cities do Christmas like Vienna: twinkling stalls in front of palaces, mulled wine (Glühwein) and punch, roasted chestnuts, and handmade gifts. Here are the best markets and their 2026 dates.
Vienna Christmas markets 2026: dates and hours
| Market | Dates (2026) | Typical hours | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Schönbrunn Palace | 6 Nov 2026 – 6 Jan 2027 | 10:00–21:00 (shorter on 24 Dec and after Christmas) | A palace setting, quality crafts |
| Rathausplatz (Wiener Weihnachtstraum) | Mid-Nov – around 26 Dec (check the organisers) | Daily, into the evening | The biggest, with an ice rink and lights |
| Spittelberg | 13 Nov – 23 Dec | Mon–Thu from 14:00, weekends from 10:00 | Handmade gifts, Biedermeier lanes |
| Karlsplatz (Art Advent) | 13 Nov – 23 Dec | 12:00–20:00 | Organic products, artisans, kids |
| Am Hof | 14 Nov – 23 Dec | From 10:00/11:00 to 21:00 | Antiques and crafts, Zirbenpunsch |
| Belvedere | Late Nov – 31 Dec | From 10:00/11:00 to 21:00 | A palace backdrop, the New Year market |
| Maria-Theresien-Platz | Dates to be confirmed | 11:00–21:00/22:00 | Between the two big museums |
Dates are from Vienna Unwrapped (2026 guide). Organisers sometimes adjust them, so check before you go.
What to eat and drink
- Glühwein (mulled wine) and Punsch: fruit punch, often with rum. Non-alcoholic Kinderpunsch is available too.
- Maroni (roasted chestnuts), Bratkartoffeln (potato pancakes) and Langos.
- Lebkuchen (gingerbread) and Vanillekipferl.
- Mugs carry a deposit. Return them for a refund, or keep them as souvenirs.
Tips
- Visit on weekday afternoons. Weekends and evenings at Rathausplatz get very crowded.
- Dress warmly, because temperatures are often around 0–5°C.
- Carry some cash for small stalls.
- Combine the markets with concerts or ice skating. Compare Christmas concerts and market tours.
- Book hotels early for December. See where to stay in Vienna.
More Vienna guides
- Vienna travel guide
- 20 best things to do in Vienna
- Vienna itinerary: 2, 3 or 4 days
- Where to stay in Vienna
- Schönbrunn Palace tickets
- Vienna Airport to the city
- Best time to visit Vienna
FAQ: Vienna Christmas markets
When do Vienna Christmas markets open in 2026?
Schönbrunn opens on 6 November, and most others open from 13–14 November or later in November. Most close on 23–26 December, while Schönbrunn stays open until 6 January 2027.
Which is the best Christmas market in Vienna?
Rathausplatz for size and atmosphere, Schönbrunn for its setting, and Spittelberg for crafts.
Are Vienna Christmas markets open after Christmas?
Some are. Schönbrunn runs until 6 January, and the Belvedere becomes a New Year’s market until 31 December.
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