It is that magical time of the year and I thought I would recap some advice for those planning to enjoy Vienna's Christmas Markets in 2025. As every year, I plan to visit all of the markets and I will try to provide real time updates on some hits and misses. This year there are 10 major markets scattered throughout the city and many smaller, more local markets (I'll share some secrets below).
First, some Advent/Christmas Market basics:
When are the Markets? – The markets start this year in mid- to late November, with the one at Schonbrunn already opening on Nov. 6. Most markets close up early on Christmas Eve, but several find a new life after Christmas as New Year’s Markets, which can go until Jan. 6 or beyond. I suggest the following link for exact dates and times for 2025/2026 - https://www.wien.info/en/now-on/christmas/christmas-markets-342664
Day or Night? – Definitely go to the markets after sunset, which at this time of year is about 4 pm. The darkness brings out the festive lights!
What should I wear? – Warm clothing is a must as you’ll be standing outside in the freezing cold, with little relief. A hat, gloves, warms socks and shoes are all imperative.
Will it snow? – Probably not.
What should I drink? – A hot chocolate, warm punsch or Glühwein, of course. Punsch is a warm alcoholic drink, usually fruit flavored but there are hundreds of variations (my favorite is the Mozart which is with marzipan and pistachio). Kinderpunsch (children’s punsch) is the non-alcoholic version. Glühwein is warm spiced red wine and quality can vary wildly. Hot chocolate is also available a most markets - my drink of choice especially with whipped cream and a shot of rum.
How do I get my drinks? – Every market has multiple punsch stands which are like an outside bar. You push your way to the front and order your drink. You will pay for your drink, plus a 3-4 Euro (or more) deposit (pfand) for the mug. Every time I bought a punsch, I would witness a confused customer shouting at the worker that they were overcharged. Do not be this person. You will get your deposit (pfand) back when you return the mug (or don’t return the mug and keep it as a souvenir). You can return your mug to any punsch stand in the same market – it doesn’t have to be the stand where you bought your drink.
What do I eat at the market? – Markets typically serve fatty, cheesy and rich foods. Raclette, sausages, doughnuts, chestnuts, fried potatoes and big pans of spaetzle are common. You can definitely get a meal at a market, but bring the pepto.
Tell me about the shopping – Christmas crafts, ornaments and decorations galore of various quality and price are available at all markets. These days, many items are imported, but if you are diligent you can find nice locally made products. You can also easily find jewelry, clothing, toys, ceramics, snow globes and everything in between. Many vendors will have stalls at multiple markets, so there is some repetition. Haggling is really not done and do not expect bargains.
Should I bring the kids? – Yes!
Suggested grouping of some major Christmas markets – Many of the markets are close to each other, making it possible to visit several in one afternoon/evening. Grouping #1 - Belvedere & Karlsplatz. Grouping #2 – Spittelberg, Rathausplatz & Altes AKH. Grouping #3 – Freyung, Am Hof and Stephansplatz.
Notably in 2025, the markets of Maria-Theresien-Platz, MuseumsQuartier, Genussmarkt bei Oper, Gartenpalais Liechtenstein and the Medieval Christmas Market at Arsenal are not happening for a variety of reasons.
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