As an expert sommelier and brewer, I have had the pleasure of visiting Vienna during the Christmas season and exploring its charming markets. Based on my personal experiences, I would recommend spending at least 3 full days in Vienna to fully immerse yourself in the Christmas market atmosphere and explore all that the city has to offer during this festive time.
Arriving no later than the evening of December 22nd or morning of December 23rd is ideal, as many markets do close on December 23rd. By arriving on these dates, you will have a whole day to wander through the markets and soak up the festive ambiance before the smaller markets close for the year.
During your first day in Vienna, I suggest starting your Christmas market adventure by visiting the famous Rathausplatz Christmas Market. This market is set in front of the stunning Vienna City Hall and offers a wide range of stalls selling traditional crafts, food, and drinks. Take your time to stroll through the market, savoring the scent of roasted chestnuts and mulled wine as you explore the various stalls.
On your second day, venture to the Schönbrunn Palace Christmas Market. This market is located in the courtyard of the magnificent Schönbrunn Palace, providing a truly enchanting setting. Here, you can browse through a variety of handicrafts, indulge in delicious Austrian treats, and enjoy live music performances. Don't forget to try a cup of traditional Viennese punch or hot chocolate to warm yourself up on a chilly winter day.
On your third day, I recommend visiting the Belvedere Palace Christmas Market. This market is situated in the stunning grounds of the Belvedere Palace, offering a picturesque backdrop for your Christmas market experience. As you explore the market, you can admire the beautifully decorated stalls and sample a range of Austrian delicacies. Take some time to visit the palace itself and marvel at its impressive architecture and art collection.
Aside from the Christmas markets, Vienna has plenty of other attractions to offer. Make sure to visit St. Stephen's Cathedral, a magnificent Gothic masterpiece, and take a stroll along the historic shopping street, Graben. Indulge in Vienna's coffee house culture by enjoying a cup of coffee and a slice of Sachertorte at one of the city's iconic cafes.
I recommend allocating at least 3 full days to fully experience the Christmas markets in Vienna. Arriving on December 22nd or 23rd will give you ample time to explore the markets before they close for the year. Don't forget to also explore the city's other attractions and indulge in Vienna's rich cultural and culinary offerings.