Vienna Advent Christmas Markets: 6 of my Must see Favorites

by Cindi H. Fries, Max Travel Abroad

Dazzling Holidays in Vienna

Vienna during the Advent season is like stepping into a holiday fairytale—no city in Europe dazzles quite like it. With its stunning decorations, festive atmosphere, and rich cultural traditions, Vienna is a top destination for holiday travelers, and my all time personal favorite!

As the countdown to December 24th begins, Vienna transforms into a magical wonderland, with over 20 Austrian Christmas markets, Weihnachtsmärkte, scattered across the city. Each market offers something special, from the scent of mulled warm red or white wine, Glühwein, to the charming stalls filled with sweets & savory foods, handcrafted ornaments and festive gifts.

Even though my husband and I have been to Vienna multiple times during the Advent season, we are always charmed and surprised by the variety and popularity of the Christmas Markets in Vienna. When we lead Christmas Market tours, with our company, Max Travel Abroad, we make sure to share these favorites, a few other gems off the beaten path.

If you are new to Christmas Markets, read my guide for Tips for European Christmas markets. Whether you're new to the Christmas market scene or a seasoned enthusiast, I’m here to share my top picks, giving you insider tips on what makes each market unique.

Christmas Market Insider knowledge

from an Experienced Guide

As a guide with Max Travel Abroad, I want to show you how to experience Vienna’s holiday magic in a more thoughtful way. With over 20 Vienna Christmas markets, also known as Christkindlmarkt, you don’t have to stick to the same crowded stalls as every other tourist. The markets typically open 4 weeks before Christmas and most stay open until the day before Christmas. A few continue up until Vienna's fabulous New Year's Eve city wide celebration!

Below are 6 of my favorite markets spots that are too magical to miss, despite (or is it in spite of?!) the crowds!!

Look on our Max Tours page if you want to join us on one of our small group Christmas Market Tours!

Must See Christmas Markets and Hidden Gems

My Favorite "Best" Christmas Markets in Vienna

1. Rathausplatz City Hall Christmas Market -

The Big One: A Festive Fever Dream

It’s like stepping into a Christmas fantasy you didn’t know you wanted—until you find yourself surrounded by large holiday decorations hanging in the trees, the grand Vienna Rathaus as a backdrop, and literally everything glowing. This massive Christmas market is prime real estate for holiday selfies, and a winter wonderland vibe that’s undeniable. But be forewarned, this place draws crowds like moths to a flame—packed doesn’t even begin to describe it.

Want to Know What Sets it Apart? Vienna Rathaus City Hall -Scale & Spectacle, with Mass Appeal

Yes, it’s a beautiful must-experience Christmas market, but it’s also kind of a “tourist trap” in the best way!

Ice skating? Check.

Music events? Of course.

A mini-train for the kids? Naturally.

However, the food? Well, let me just say that the mass-produced Glühwein and sugary mulled wine leaves much to be desired (sorry if I've offended anyone with differing opinions) and the items in the market stalls… well, if you like souvenirs that might not have seen the Austrian Alps, or anywhere else in Europe, this is your spot.

 Still, it's hard to pass on the sheer holiday glitz scale and glowing Christmas lights extravaganza, so be sure to go after twilight!

2. Freyung Christmas Market: Vintage Allure in the Heart Vienna

The Freyung Christmas Market doesn’t scream for attention, but that’s exactly why it’s so special. Nestled in the heart of Vienna’s historic first district, it sits in a small, elegant triangle surrounded by baroque landmarks like the Schottenkirche Church, Palace Ferstel, and the majestic Palace Daun-Kinsky.

Stroll through a wonderland of traditional crafts, vintage ornaments, and timeless holiday treats. Explore stalls offering gingerbread, roasted chestnuts, and beeswax candles, and enjoy the atmosphere with traditional live music, from regional advent choirs, to a Viennese bugle band.

Max-ipedia Tip: Jazz, Palaces, and Viennese Charm

Fun fact? Vienna’s first district is home to many historic palaces built for Viennese aristocracy , but few know the modern story behind Palais Daun-Kinsky, Palais Herrach, and Palais Ferstel—all on the street along where the Freyung market is. These palaces were lovingly restored by Karl Wlaschek, a self-made Austrian billionaire who began his career playing jazz to pay for university. In fact in the late 1930's he used to rely on my husband's father to pluck out the latest tunes so Wlaschek could get the gigs!

After WWII, Wlaschek built his fortune with a chain of cosmetic stores, Bipa, and grocery stores, Billa, he poured his wealth into renovating multiple palaces so iconic to Vienna’s architectural heritage. He saw this as his way of giving back to the city he loved.

In the 1990s, Wlaschek would host intimate jazz nights in his private Jazz club located in his historic Vienna home, just around the corner from the Freyung, often with my family in attendance.

It’s a little-known piece of Viennese history, hidden behind the grand facades of the city’s palaces. Want to hear more of these insider stories?

Join us on one of our tours, and I’ll share the full scoop as we stroll past these iconic landmarks!

3. Am Hof Market - Antiques, Aperol, and Artsy Finds

A Christmas market with an edge, the market at the Am Hof plaza, just down the block from the Freyung, combines traditional and modern in a way that’s distinct. Stalls are packed with oddball treasures—think antique collectibles, quirky artwork, and some items you won’t find anywhere else in Vienna’s market circuit. Food and drink here are on another level. Ever tried a warm Aperol Spritz or Schnapps made from pine cones? Sounds weird, tastes amazing—trust me on this.

Want to Know What Sets it Apart? - Am Hof Christmas Market's Aperol & Antiques

Am Hof sets itself apart with its variety. One moment you’re sipping something completely unexpected (yes, that warm Aperol drink), the next you’re browsing through handcrafted jewelry, antique butter molds, or charming trinkets that feel like they belong in a vintage shop. It’s got a low-key, artsy vibe that makes it worth a visit.

4. St. Stephen’s Advent Market- Right at the Foot of History

It’s a small market, but mighty in charm. St. Stephen’s Christmas Market wraps around Vienna's most iconic Gothic cathedral like a cozy Christmas scarf.

Located in Stephansplatz, right in the Vienna's city center, it's a hard one to miss, and while it doesn’t boast the grandeur of others, the historical setting makes up for it. You’ll find quaint stalls selling artisanal gifts and snacks, all while soaking in the architectural wonder of St. Stephen’s Cathedral.

If you join us on a Max Travel Tour to Vienna, you will discover how the St. Stephan's cathedral portrays the tale of Adam and Eve, as well as the concealed Underground Nazi Resistance code found on the church's outer walls.

Want to Know What Sets it Apart? Stephanzplatz Market where Old World Meets Christmas Charm

There’s something special about shopping for ornaments with the massive cathedral as your backdrop. This market feels distinctly “Vienna” and it’s right in the middle of all the action, perfect for a quick stop while exploring Vienna’s old town while waiting to take a romantic ride on a Fiaker horse-drawn carriage.

Max-ipedia Tour Trivia: Locals call it "Steffl"

5. Maria-Theresien-Platz Christmas Market

A Monumental Market: Culture & Christmas Collide

Smack between twin monumental Vienna museums—the Natural History Museum and the Art History Museum—and the Empress Maria Theresa Monument (Habsburg monarchy 1740 to 1780) this market is all about scale. If you travel on one of our guided tours to Vienna with Max Travel Abroad I'll share the history of the only female leader, with a successful reign, all while bearing 16 children (one of her daughters was Marie Antoinette, the wife of French King Louis XVI).

There’s space to wander and take in the gorgeous architecture on the plaza between these twin museums while exploring stalls packed with unique crafts and gifts. It's perfect for those who like their Christmas markets with a side of cultural immersion—who wouldn’t want to buy holiday presents with a world-class museum as the backdrop?

Want to Know What Sets it Apart? Culture meets Warmth

If you need a break from the festive hustle, step into the Art History Museum right next to the market. It’s the perfect place to warm up and explore treasures from ancient Egypt to the Dutch Masters. Plus, if Rubens’ 'The Adoration of the Magi' doesn’t get you into the holiday spirit, the museum’s elegant café will. Unlike the market, it offers a cozy seat where you can sip a coffee and recharge before heading back out to shop under the grand backdrop of Vienna’s historic architecture.

6. Karlsplatz Christmas Market

Artistry & Quality at St. Charles Church

The Karlsplatz Christmas Market is a perfect blend of festive cheer and artistic charm. Set against the stunning backdrop of St. Charles Church (Karlskirche), this market transforms into a winter wonderland with beautifully lit stalls offering a variety of artisan crafts and organic treats. Expect to find high-quality, handcrafted items from local Austrian artisans, including organic hot mulled wine, or warm fruit punch.

Want to Know What Sets it Apart?  Juried Artisans & Organic Culinary Options

This is a great market for you if you appreciate unique, well made handcrafted items by Austrian artisans selected through a rigorous juried process and offering items you won’t find in any other market. You’ll find beautiful items made to fit every taste from wood, stone, steel, wax, wool, and much more.

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As you explore Vienna’s Christmas markets, you’ll discover that each one tells its own story, whether through dazzling lights, artisanal crafts, or local delicacies.

From the grand spectacle of Rathausplatz to the charming intimacy of Altes Wiener Freyung Market, there’s a market to match every festive mood.

And if you're up for a little adventure beyond the city limits, don’t miss the picturesque Christmas market in Baden bei Wien, where history and holiday spirit blend seamlessly.

Bundle up, grab a mug, and let Vienna’s holiday magic sweep you off your feet—each market offers a new chapter in this winter wonderland.

Want more? Look below for links to articles about Austrian Traditional Foods & Christmas Market treats, or Hidden Christmas Market Gems, or check out our upcoming tours with Max Travel Abroad.

Have a joyful time discovering during the holiday! ~ Cindi, Max Travel Abroad LLC