Vienna’s very first “December Market” was granted by Duke Albrecht I in 1296—meaning the tradition has been running for more than 725 years
Every year since 1959, one of Austria’s provinces has donated the enormous Christmas tree that stands in front of the Rathaus, glowing as the market’s centerpiece
One of the most magical stops on my Christmas cruise down the Blue Danube was Vienna. The city came alive with twinkling lights, festive music, and the kind of holiday spirit you can almost taste in the air. Stepping into the Christmas market at Rathausplatz felt like stepping into another century—a fairytale scene framed by Vienna’s grand Gothic City Hall.
Here’s what I experienced:
- Rathausplatz’s festive maze of stalls – more than 150 wooden huts glowing with lights, sweets, and gifts, plus an ice rink that sparkled like glass under the night sky.
- The famous Glühwein Boot – yes, I sipped hot mulled wine out of a boot-shaped mug, and it was as cozy (and boozy) as it sounds.
- St. Stephen’s Cathedral – this towering masterpiece took over 300 years to complete, and standing beneath its spire, I felt like the city itself was whispering history.
- A schnitzel by the Danube – golden, crispy, and the perfect way to warm up after hours in the winter chill.
- Sweet indulgence – I couldn’t resist a Cremeschnitte, a dreamy Austrian “cream slice” layered with custard and pastry.
Fun fact: The Vienna Christmas Market dates back to 1296, making it one of the oldest festive markets in the world.
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