Christmas Markets In Austria: Open For The Holidays!

Austria's Christmas markets are renowned across Europe, and for good reason. From mid-November to late December, the country's squares are transformed into magical markets, with the aroma of Christmas bakery, hot punch and mulled wine filling the air.

Each market is unique, with different vendors, food, gifts, decorations and entertainment.

So, if you're planning a trip to Austria's Christmas markets, which ones should you visit?

Vienna's Christmas markets open in mid-November and close in late December

Vienna's Christmas markets are an age-old tradition, with the forerunners of the present-day events dating back to the Middle Ages. In 2024, the markets open in mid-November and close in late December. The specific dates vary across the city's many markets, with some starting as early as 8 November and others opening their doors in the second half of the month.

The markets are usually open daily from 10 am or 11 am until 9 pm or 10 pm, with some closing an hour earlier on 24 December. However, each market has different vendors, so you'll find a variety of holiday gifts, arts and crafts, spiced mulled wine, and foods to try.

• Viennese Dream Christmas Market: 16 November to 26 December.
• Christmas Village Belvedere Palace: 15 November to 23 December, with a New Year's Market on 31 December.
• Christmas Village on Maria Theresien Square: 13 November to 23 December, with a New Year's Market on 31 December.
• Christmas Village Campus University of Vienna: 15 November to 23 December.
• Christmas Market at Schönbrunn Palace: 8 November 2024 to 6 January 2025.
• Christmas Market at Spittelberg: 16 November to 23 December.
• Weihnachtsmarkt Am Hof: 15 November to 23 December.
• Old Viennese Christmas Market: 15 November to 23 December.
• Belvedere Palace Christmas Village: 15 November to 31 December.

In addition to these markets, there are several others located across the city, including the Stephansplatz Christmas Village, the Christkindlmarkt at Rathausplatz, and the Advent Market by the Karlskirche, all of which opened in mid-November and will close in late December 2024.

So, if you're planning to visit Vienna during the festive season, you'll have plenty of opportunities to explore the magical Christmas markets and enjoy the unique atmosphere, sights, and treats they have to offer!

The markets are busiest from 5 pm to 9 pm

The Christmas markets in Austria are busiest from 5 pm to 9 pm. This is the time when the markets are illuminated by the evening lights, creating a magical and romantic atmosphere. The markets are a popular attraction for both locals and tourists, with some markets attracting large crowds. To avoid the peak crowds, it is recommended to visit the markets during their opening times or at midday.

The markets offer a unique shopping and cultural experience. Each market has a different vibe and selection of goods, ranging from food and drinks to holiday gifts, arts and crafts, and traditional decorations. The markets are usually open between 10 am or 11 am and 8 pm to 10 pm, with some variations in timings across different markets.

The Christmas markets in Austria are known for their festive treats, such as mulled wine, hot punch, and roasted almonds. They are also a great place to enjoy live music, admire handcrafted goods, and soak in the holiday cheer.

• Plan your visit: Check the opening times and locations of the markets you want to visit beforehand. This will help you navigate the markets efficiently and ensure you don't miss out on any attractions.
• Arrive early: Consider arriving at the market a little earlier, around 4 pm to 5 pm, to secure a good spot and explore the stalls before the peak crowd sets in.
• Enjoy the evening lights: The markets are beautifully illuminated after sunset, creating a magical atmosphere. Stroll through the market, admire the lights, and capture some memorable photos.
• Sample the festive treats: Indulge in the variety of food and drinks on offer. Warm yourself with a cup of mulled wine or hot punch, and treat yourself to some roasted almonds or other local delicacies.
• Soak in the entertainment: Many markets feature live music, carol singing, and other entertainment. Enjoy the festive atmosphere and join in on the celebrations.
• Be prepared for crowds: The markets can get quite busy during peak hours. Be prepared for large crowds and navigate the market with patience and a positive attitude.

By following these tips, you can make the most of your visit to the Christmas markets in Austria during their busiest hours and create memorable holiday experiences.

The main markets are open from 10 am or 11 am to 10 pm

The main Christmas markets in Vienna open from 10 am or 11 am to 10 pm.

The Christkindlmarkt, located in front of the Town Hall, is one of the most popular meeting places during Advent. It is open daily from 10 am to 10 pm, with the exception of December 24th, when it closes at 6:30 pm.

The Christmas Village at Maria-Theresien-Platz is open Sunday to Thursday from 11 am to 9 pm, and Friday and Saturday from 11 am to 10 pm. On Christmas Eve, it is open until 4 pm, and from December 25th to the 30th, it is open until 7 pm. On New Year's Eve, the market is open until 8 pm.

The Christmas Market at Stephansplatz, located in the centre of the inner city, is open daily from 11 am to 9 pm. On December 24th, it is open from 11 am to 4 pm, and on the 25th and 26th, it is open from 11 am to 7 pm.

The Old Viennese Christmas Market on Freyung, a traditional market in the city centre, is open daily from 10 am to 9 pm.

The Am Hof Christmas Market, located on Am Hof Square, is open Monday to Thursday from 11 am to 9 pm, and Friday to Sunday and public holidays from 10 am to 9 pm.

The Christmas Market at Schönbrunn Palace, one of Vienna's largest markets, is open daily from 10 am to 9 pm. On December 24th, it is open from 10 am to 4 pm, and from December 25th to January 6th, it is open from 10 am to 7 pm.

The Christmas Village at Belvedere Palace is open Monday to Friday from 11 am to 9 pm, and Saturday and Sunday from 10 am to 9 pm. On December 24th, it is open from 11 am to 4 pm, and from the 25th to the 30th, it is open from 11 am to 7 pm. On New Year's Eve, the market is open until 6 pm.

The Stephansplatz Christmas Village is one of the best markets, with stalls set up in front of St. Stephen's Cathedral

The Stephansplatz Christmas Village is one of the best markets in Vienna, with stalls set up in front of St. Stephen's Cathedral. The market runs along the side of the cathedral, with the magnificent gothic building forming a stunning backdrop. The Stephansplatz market is a relatively new addition to Vienna's Christmas offerings, but its location and traditional feel make it a must-visit.

The market harks back to medieval times, with its wooden stands selling a variety of goods. Tourists and locals alike can enjoy handcrafted decorations made from wood, tin, and papier-mâché, as well as secular items like Italian truffles, candles, clothing, and ceramics. Foodies can indulge in pastries, potato fritters, soups, Käseknockerl (cheese dumplings), and Baumkuchen (spit cakes), among other delights. And of course, there are plenty of seasonal drinks to warm you up as you browse the stalls.

The Stephansplatz Christmas Village is not just about shopping and food. The location itself is a highlight, with the majestic St. Stephen's Cathedral taking centre stage. The multi-coloured tiled roof, towers, and long history make it an iconic sight in Vienna. The surrounding townhouses and buildings from the time of Mozart add to the ambience, creating a truly magical atmosphere.

The market is easily accessible, located right in the middle of the city. You can reach it by subway or bus, with the Stephansplatz station and stop just outside the market. The market is also within walking distance of other popular Christmas markets, such as the Christkindlmarkt, making it easy to explore multiple markets in one trip.

The Stephansplatz Christmas Village is usually open from mid-November to late December, with specific dates varying slightly each year. For example, in 2024, the market will be open from November 8th to December 26th. The hours are typically 11 am to 9 pm, with earlier closing times on December 24th, 25th, and 26th.

So, if you're planning a trip to Vienna for the Christmas markets, the Stephansplatz Christmas Village should definitely be on your list. With its unique setting, traditional atmosphere, and variety of offerings, it's sure to leave you with magical memories.

The Viennese Dream Christmas Market is Vienna's largest and most popular market

The market is filled with food stalls, stands selling hot mulled wine and hot chocolate, and lots of holiday gifts and souvenirs. There's even an ice-skating path that loops through the trees, and a small Ferris Wheel that children will love. The tree decorated with illuminated red hearts is a romantic spot for couples to take photos, and there's also an online map to help you find your way around the stalls, ice rink, and attractions.

The best time to visit is at sunset, when the market is at its busiest and the City Hall building is bathed in a golden glow. The market is open from 10 am to 10 pm, closing earlier on the 24th of December at 6.30 pm.

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