Between the grand buildings of the Kunsthistorisches Museum and the Naturhistorisches Museum, you’ll find one of Vienna’s most atmospheric Christmas markets. The Maria-Theresien-Platz Christmas market may not be as large as Rathausplatz, but its elegant setting and relaxed atmosphere make it a favorite for many visitors who want to experience the festive season without the overwhelming crowds.
History and tradition
The Christmas market at Maria-Theresien-Platz has been part of Vienna’s Advent celebrations since the early 2000s. Compared to the centuries-old tradition of some other markets, it’s a relative newcomer. Still, it quickly earned a place among Vienna’s most popular Christmas destinations, especially because of its unique location between two of the city’s most iconic museums.
Atmosphere and highlights
The layout of the Christmas market at Maria-Theresien-Platz is spacious, with wide paths lined with decorated huts and the impressive statue of Empress Maria Theresa at the centre. At night, both museums are beautifully illuminated, giving the square a grand but welcoming feel. Strings of lights and seasonal decorations create a festive setting that feels slightly less hectic than some larger markets.
Food and drinks
Like every Christmas market in Vienna, the Christmas market at Maria-Theresien-Platz offers plenty of seasonal treats. The smell of maroni (roasted chestnuts) greets you as you walk in, while stands selling Bratwurst, Käsekrainer, and other sausages keep visitors warm on cold evenings. Sweet options include Lebkuchen (gingerbread hearts), waffles, and pastries filled with marzipan or fruit.
To drink, you’ll find steaming cups of Glühwein (mulled wine) and a wide choice of Punsch (punch) varieties, from Apfelpunsch (apple punch) to Beerenpunsch (berry punch). Non-alcoholic Kinderpunsch is available for families. Drinks are served in collectible mugs, just like at the Rathausplatz market.
Shopping and crafts
With around 70 stalls, the Christmas market at Maria-Theresien-Platz offers a good balance of festive decorations, local handicrafts, and regional specialities. You’ll find hand-carved wooden figures, glass ornaments, and Austrian products such as honey, schnapps, and herbal teas. Compared to Rathausplatz, prices here are often a little more reasonable, and the atmosphere feels slightly less commercial, making it easier to enjoy browsing without pressure to buy.
When I visited last year as a local, one stand in particular caught my attention: it was selling “Dutch cheese.” Because of my Dutch roots, I was naturally curious. But instead of a good piece of cheese, what I found was something that looked impressive on the outside but was priced like gold. The quality simply didn’t match the price tag. Experiences like this are not uncommon, the central location can push prices up, sometimes far beyond what feels fair.
Activities and entertainment at Maria-Theresien-Platz
While the Christmas market at Maria-Theresien-Platz less focused on children’s rides, it still offers a festive setting for families. The spacious square makes it easy to stroll with kids, and live music is often performed in the evenings, adding to the atmosphere. The location is also ideal for combining a market visit with a museum trip — something many locals enjoy during Advent weekends.
Practical information
- Opening dates: Mid-November until late December (exact dates vary each year).
- Opening hours: Usually from around 11 am until 9 pm, with shorter hours on Christmas Eve.
- Location: Maria-Theresien-Platz, between the Kunsthistorisches and Naturhistorisches Museums.
- How to get there: Metro U2 or U3 to Volkstheater, or tram lines 1, 2, D to Burgring.
- Entry: Free. Drinks require a deposit for mugs, refunded when returned.
Tips for your visit
- Visit in the late afternoon to see the market both in daylight and after dark when the museums are beautifully lit.
- Combine your visit with one of the nearby museums or with the smaller Christmas market at Spittelberg, which is just a short walk away.
- This market is less crowded than Rathausplatz, but weekends can still be busy — weekdays are calmer.
My final thoughts on the Christmas market at Maria-Theresien-Platz
The Christmas market at Maria-Theresien-Platz offers a festive experience in one of Vienna’s most impressive squares. With its mix of traditional food, local crafts, and a grand architectural setting, it’s an excellent choice for anyone who wants to enjoy the Christmas atmosphere of Vienna without the overwhelming size of the Rathausplatz market.