In childhood, Advent lasted an eternity. In adulthood, it is all over much too quickly, what with all the rushing about and crazy shopping. Fortunately, Vienna has some very special places to escape the hustle and bustle. The air here is heavy with the fragrance of enticing things. Of punch, mulled wine, tea, cookies, and roasted almonds. The Viennese Christmas markets radiate an unmistakable charm.

Stroll about gently or spend a few hours with friends sampling your way through the various punch booths in the cozy pre-Christmas hustle and bustle – the enchanting Christmas markets in Vienna make it possible. Quite incidentally, you might also find one or two gifts for your loved ones at home at a handicrafts stall. From mid-November to Christmas, many of Vienna's most beautiful and famous squares are transformed into true Christmas wonderlands.

We had a look around Christmas Vienna, eagerly tasted punch and cookies, and compiled a list of six of our favorite Christmas markets.

Christmas Market Schloss Schönbrunn

We begin our journey through Advent in Vienna in front of one of the city's most famous sights. The imposing Schönbrunn Palace provides the perfect setting for the Christmas Market Schloss Schönbrunn and its numerous booths arranged in alleys. The exclusive assortment includes traditional handicrafts, pretty Christmas decorations, and toys. Sweet, spicy and hearty temptations are waiting on every corner and enchant the huge square in front of the palace with their enticing aromas. Empress Sisi would no doubt also have indulged in a sweet sin!

Art Advent on Karlsplatz

The impressive backdrop of the Karlskirche (Church of St. Charles) isn't the only thing that makes this Christmas market special. For 30 years now, the organizers have relied on the best, regional quality in all areas. High-quality, individual handicrafts and exclusively organic food and drink await the visitors to the booths. All around the hustle and bustle at the booths there is an extensive supporting program with musical acts, exhibitions and farm animals for children big and small.

Old Viennese Christmas Market on Freyung

The Christmas Market on Freyung stands for pure Christmas tradition. It can be traced as far back as 1772. In the heart of Vienna, around 60 operators offer high-quality handicrafts and idyllic treats on their booths. The supporting program on Freyung also keeps everyone satisfied. The time until Christmas Eve just flies by!

Christmas Village on the University Campus

A visit to the large courtyard of the University Campus is worth it, especially at Christmas time. The Christmas Village on the University Campus attracts countless visitors to the courtyard of the former General Hospital every year. Around 50 booths offer everything the Christmas heart desires. Handicrafts, lots of gift ideas, and culinary pleasures create a fantastic atmosphere, together with countless lights, enticing aromas and the right music. A go-to event in Advent, even without a student ID!

Christmas Market on Spittelberg

In the run-up to Christmas, the narrow Biedermeier lanes on Spittelberg transform into an enchanting, rustic Christmas village. No two booths are the same. Each is unique in its own way, which is precisely what makes up the special charm of this Christmas market for so many people. More than 120 exhibitors offer their Christmas goods in the romantic lanes. Still got room for a small bag of roasted almonds after a raclette sandwich? For sure, together with a delicious berry punch!

Viennese Christmas Market on Rathausplatz

The Viennese Christmas Market extends over City Hall Square and the surrounding parkland. From the large archway at the entrance, to the many booths and the atmospheric lighting in the parks, City Hall Square transforms into a gigantic sea of lights. Every conceivable sweet treat, classic and exotic kinds of punch, and hot soups in bread quickly let us discard any thoughts of going on a diet!