Similar to Christmas lights and decorations, Christmas markets in Vienna start in November already and most of them are around famous landmarks, as they were traditionally held for centuries. Today, over 20 official Christmas (Advent) markets are organized throughout Vienna, where food, gifts, and souvenirs are sold to thousands of visitors and dozens of events with art performances are held. The character, scope, and details of the original markets changed through the centuries, obviously, but the tradition stayed uninterrupted until today. Initially, it all started in 1296, when Albrecht I (Duke of Austria and Styria) authorized citizens of Vienna to organize December markets, then called “Krippenmarkt” (Nativity Market).

The Christmas markets in Vienna are a centuries-old tradition. Christmas lights – Graben Street Christmas markets The history of Christmas markets Interestingly enough, the festive atmosphere in Vienna was featured in the movie, “Christmas in Vienna”, which you can check out on IMDB website. The best time to see the lights is obviously in the evening, but since it becomes dark very early in Vienna during winter, you can enjoy them as early as 5 PM! Christmas in Vienna – Christmas lightsĮach district is decorated with lights and Christmas ornaments in their respective areas, but not as much as the central areas of the city. Most opulent ones are in the first district, and in the main tourist areas – Stephansplatz, Graben and Kohlmarkt streets, Kärntner Straße, Ringstrasse, Karlsplatz, Rathausplatz and several others, such as Prater area.

Stephansplatz Market (by the St Stephen’s Cathedral)Ĭhristmas lights and festive decorations in Vienna are put up as early as 12 th November this year (2021).

Christmas day in vienna