Hotels near Wiener Christkindlmarkt at Rathausplatz

The Wiener Christkindlmarkt on Rathausplatz is the Vienna Christmas market that appears on postcards. Rows of stalls fill the square in front of the neo-Gothic City Hall (Wiener Rathaus), and a large candle arch marks the entrance. In 2026 it runs from 13 November to 26 December, longer than most of the craft markets in the old town.

The market spills into the neighbouring Rathauspark, where the Eistraum am Christkindlmarkt sets up about 3,000 m² of ice, including skating paths that wind between the trees. There is also a 12-metre carousel and a children's area. The stalls sell tree decorations, sweets, gifts and the usual Punsch and Glühwein, served in a collectible mug with a deposit you get back when you return it.

Rathausplatz is the busiest and most commercial market in the city. Go for the lights and the setting, then buy your crafts elsewhere.

Pro Tip: Arrive before 4pm on a weekday to walk the stalls in daylight, then stay until dark when the trees in Rathauspark light up. Friday and Saturday evenings in December are packed shoulder to shoulder.