Christmas Markets in Vienna
In Europe, as in the US, Christmastime is a wonderful time of year. We think of friends and
family, great meals, holiday festivities, and of course shopping. In Europe, it is taken to a whole new level with wonderful fairy tale Christmas Markets full of holiday crafts, hand-made ornaments, wooden-toys, nut crackers, food, and drink all with amazing backdrops. Imagine shopping in the presence of Imperial Palaces, city halls, cathedrals, or walking among rows of vendors on tight picturesque cobblestone alleyways. Throw in a chill in the air and a little, or lot, of snow, and you have the miracle of the holidays.
There are markets throughout Europe but one city that regularly tops the list is Vienna, Austria with over 20 official markets and many more unofficial markets running from the end of November to Christmas Eve and a few even longer. The first Christmas markets appeared in Vienna in 1298 and remain a long-standing tradition today.
The Markets
The most recognized market is the Viennese Dream Christkindlmarkt at City Hall. It is also
the largest in Vienna, includes a 32,000 sq ft ice rink, over 150 stalls, reindeer rides, a Ferris wheel, and an old-fashion style carousel.
Try as many markets as you can to get a flavor of the different variety in ambience, goods, food, and drink. Here are a few favorites around Vienna.
Schonbrunn Palace
Belvedere Palace
Christmas Village Alte AKH
Christmas Village Freyoung
Christmas Village on Maria Theresien Square
Christmas Market at Spiettelberg
The Fun
Many of the markets will provide music on the weekends including local or international choirs. Ice skating, curling, and crafts for the children are available depending on which markets you attend.
The Food
As you approach the market, you will notice the wonderous smell of mulled wine, sausages, and many, many sweets. Many locals attend each year just for the food and drink. When you are visiting make sure to try the local favorites. They all have roasted chestnuts but each vendor adds its own flavor so try a few different “maroni”, as they are called in Vienna. The region is known for sausage so, you will want to try a few of those as well. I recommend Kaisekrainer (sausage with cheese in it) or the Bratwurst to start. A favorite sweet is the Bauernkrapfen, which is a farmer donut, much flatter than our donuts and usually with a jam on top. Pastries and cookies decorated for the holidays abound and the Lubkuchen (gingerbread) is a must this time of year.
The Drink
When you are walking around the markets you will find the annual favorite mulled wine. Look for the “Gluhwein” signs and like the maroni, the vendors will have different flavors.
Hot chocolate is a definite holiday treat for kids of all ages. Punsch, an alcoholic holiday punch is another favorite which comes in the kinder punch, or non-alcoholic version, as well. Bring an extra suitcase just in case you are tempted to keep the mugs they come in. Each market has its own mug created specifically for that market and that year. If you do not want to collect them, make sure you remember where you got it so you can get your deposit back.
Final Thoughts
Dress warm or better yet, buy a scarf and gloves while there as a souvenir. It can get cold in the winter.
To avoid crowds, go in the morning. If you want to see the twinkling lights for a magical experience, go in the evening.
Cash is king. While some may take credit cards, it is best to have euros ready and in small bills.
Vienna is considered to be a very safe town but, like many places, this is a good time for pick-pockets so be aware. Also check the goods you buy for authentic Viennese merchandise, like here in the US, you may see multiples of the same items sourced from other countries.
If you are looking to get away near the holidays and want an authentic European experience, grab your family or a group of friends and head to the Christmas Markets of Europe. River cruises and tours are a great way to see markets in several countries or park yourself here in Vienna, see the sights and experience a real European holiday.
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