Christmas market at Rathausplatz in Vienna

When people think of Christmas in Vienna, the first image that often comes to mind is the Christmas market at Rathausplatz. With the city hall as a majestic backdrop and thousands of sparkling lights, this is the most famous and most visited Christmas market in Vienna. Every year, it transforms the entire square and the surrounding Rathauspark into a festive wonderland that attracts visitors from all over the world.

History and tradition of the Christmas market at Rathausplatz

The tradition of Christmas markets in Vienna dates back to the Middle Ages, but the one on Rathausplatz has been held since the 1970s. Over the years, it has grown into one of the largest and most elaborate markets in Europe. The event combines old traditions, such as handcrafted ornaments and festive pastries, with modern attractions like the ice rink and light installations.

Atmosphere and highlights

The setting itself makes this market special. The neo-Gothic Rathaus, illuminated in warm colors, towers over the square. A massive Christmas tree, usually donated by one of Austria’s federal states, stands proudly in front of the building. Throughout the Rathauspark, you’ll find countless light decorations, from glowing figures in the trees to the famous “Herzerlbaum,” a tree covered with hundreds of red heart-shaped lights that has become a popular photo spot.

Don’t just stay on the main square. The Rathauspark itself is filled with light installations and decorated trees, including the famous Herzerlbaum (tree of hearts). Many locals say the park is even more charming than the stalls.

Food and drinks at the Christmas market at Rathausplatz

No visit to the Rathausplatz market is complete without indulging in its seasonal specialties. The smell of maroni (roasted chestnuts) drifts through the air, a winter classic in Vienna. For something more filling, the market offers a wide choice of Bratwurst and other sausages, from the cheesy Käsekrainer to the spicy Debreziner, typically served with a breadroll (Semel), mustard, and a generous portion of horseradish.

On the sweeter side, there are crisp potato spirals, decorated Lebkuchen (gingerbread hearts), freshly baked waffles, and sugar-dusted pastries.

To keep warm, most visitors enjoy a steaming cup of Glühwein (mulled wine) or one of the many varieties of Punsch (punch), such as Apfelpunsch (apple punch) or Beerenpunsch (berry punch). Non-alcoholic versions, often called Kinderpunsch, are just as popular with families. Drinks are always served in collectible ceramic mugs that change design every year, you pay a small deposit and can either return the mug or keep it as a souvenir.

The mix of hearty Austrian street food, traditional sweets, and warming drinks makes the Christmas market at Rathausplatza true feast for all senses.

Shopping and crafts

The Christmas market at Rathausplatz has more than 100 stands, and while many visitors come for the festive lights and atmosphere, the shopping experience is an important part of the visit. You’ll find plenty of classic Christmas decorations, from hand-painted glass baubles to wooden ornaments and nativity figurines. But there is also a wide range of local products, including Austrian honey, herbal liqueurs, cheeses, cured meats, and handmade soaps. These stalls give you a chance to bring a taste of Vienna and Austria back home.

It’s worth noting, however, that prices here are on the higher side. The location in front of the Rathaus makes this one of the most prestigious — and therefore one of the most commercial — Christmas markets in Vienna. While the quality of the goods is usually good, you may find better deals and more authentic crafts at smaller markets like Spittelberg or Karlsplatz.

That said, browsing the stands is still part of the fun. Even if you don’t plan to buy much, wandering through the rows of stalls with a mug of Glühwein in hand and discovering the variety of products is very much part of the Rathausplatz experience.

Activities and entertainment at the Christmas market at Rathausplatz

Families will find plenty to do at the Rathausplatz market beyond shopping and food. For younger children, there are traditional fairground rides such as a carousel, a small Ferris wheel, and the popular Christmas train that winds its way through the park. Inside the Rathaus itself, the so-called Christkindl Workshop gives kids the chance to bake cookies or make small crafts, a tradition that has been part of the market for decades.

One of the highlights, however, is the Eistraum (Ice Dream), a vast artificial ice rink that stretches through the Rathauspark. What starts as a festive skating area during the Christmas market grows into one of Europe’s largest open-air ice rinks once the market closes, usually running well into February. The design is unique: winding paths of ice connect several larger rinks, so skaters can glide through illuminated park alleys as if they were strolling on frozen trails. Whether you bring your skates or rent them on site, this is one of the most magical ways to experience Vienna in winter.

For non-skaters, it’s still worth a visit, watching the lively mix of families, couples, and groups of friends skating under the Rathaus lights is part of the seasonal charm.

Tips for your visit

The market can get very crowded in the evenings and on weekends, so if you prefer a quieter atmosphere, try to visit during the afternoon on a weekday. Don’t miss the illuminated Rathauspark, it’s just as charming as the main square. If you want to continue your Christmas market tour, the smaller but equally beautiful markets at Maria-Theresien-Platz or Spittelberg are nearby. And most importantly: dress warmly because Vienna in December can be cold, especially after sunset.

The Christmas market at Rathausplatz can get extremely crowded, especially in the evenings and on weekends. While Vienna is generally very safe, pickpockets sometimes take advantage of the busy atmosphere. Keep your valuables close, use a bag that closes securely, and avoid carrying more than you need.