Christmas market Vienna 2026

Experience Christmas in Vienna by train

From mid-November 2025 to early January 2026, Vienna is filled with Christmas spirit. Across the city, you’ll find charming squares lit up with festive lights, music and the scent of mulled wine. The Austrian capital hosts more than twenty Christmas markets, ranging from large and traditional to small and local. With NS International, you can travel comfortably by train to Christmas in Vienna from just € 35 one way.

A Christmas trip to Vienna

During the holidays, Vienna turns into a magical city full of light and music. You can stroll through the streets, enjoy local specialties and attend classical concerts in churches and palaces. Each market has its own charm – from the grandeur of Rathausplatz to the cosy and intimate atmosphere of Spittelberg.

When are the Christmas markets in Vienna?

Vienna’s Christmas market season runs from early November 2026 to early January 2027. The exact dates vary by location. Both the Christmas market at Schönbrunn Palace and the Winter Market at the Giant Ferris Wheel in the Prater are open until 6 January 2027.

The 3 best Christmas markets in Vienna

1. Rathausplatz Christkindlmarkt

This market is one of the largest and most popular in Vienna. It is located in front of the City Hall (Rathaus) and has many stalls with handmade gifts, Christmas decorations, and delicious food. The festive lights and the large Christmas tree make it a magical place.
Date: 13 November - 26 December 2026

2. Schönbrunn Palace

Located in front of the beautiful Schönbrunn Palace, this market has a regal atmosphere with many artisanal products and delicious food. The historical location adds an extra festive touch, and there are often concerts and other events.
Date: 6 November 2026 - 6 January 2027

3. Spittelberg

This market is known for its cozy and intimate atmosphere. It is located in the narrow, cobblestone streets of the Spittelberg district and has many stalls with artisanal products and unique gifts. It is a favorite among locals and has a warm, authentic feel.
Date: 13 November - 23 December 2026

Your trip to Vienna by train

Travel to Vienna comfortably with NS International, either during the day or overnight.

By ICE
The ICE runs daily from Amsterdam Central Station to Vienna with two transfers. Enjoy comfortable seats, on-board catering and beautiful scenery along the way.
Day train (ICE) to Austria
By Nightjet
The Nightjet departs in the evening directly from Amsterdam and arrives the next morning in the heart of Vienna. You can choose between a seat, a couchette or a private sleeper cabin.
The night train to Austria

Going to the Christmas market after 12 December 2026?

Going to a Christmas market? Good news: most Christmas markets open as early as November. You can already buy train tickets to Christmas markets until 12 December.

Do you want to visit a Christmas market after 12 December? Then, in some cases, you will have to be a little patient when buying train tickets. Due to a new schedule from 13 December, we cannot yet sell some tickets. But don't worry. We can let you know when tickets are available on your desired travel day:

Click on your desired travel time in the calendar
Click on 'set alert' and enter your email address
You will receive an email as soon as the tickets are available

This way you will always be the first to know and benefit from the lowest prices.

What else to do during Christmas in Vienna

Even beyond the markets, there’s plenty to enjoy in wintertime Vienna. Take the Vienna Ring Tram for a scenic ride past the city’s most beautiful buildings, warm up at Café Central in the city centre, or take in stunning views from the famous Ferris wheel in Wiener Prater park.