Ратушная площадь
1 / 10

Rathausplatz

4.6
·491k reviews·Augsburg, Germany

Vienna's grand public square, famous for its magnificent Rathaus and its spectacular, world-renowned Christmas market.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, more relaxed

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Ратушная площадь

Rathausplatz

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, more relaxed

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Vienna's grand public square, famous for its magnificent Rathaus and its spectacular, world-renowned Christmas market.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"The Wiener Christkindlmarkt at Rathausplatz is a truly magical experience, one of Europe's most stunning Christmas markets."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Go early for fewer crowds

Beat the rush by visiting the Christmas market on Rathausplatz on weekdays, especially in the morning.

🍷 Sip on warm mulled wine

Embrace the festive spirit with a cup of 'Glühwein' (mulled wine) – a must-try at the market!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Wiener Christkindlmarkt

Wiener Christkindlmarkt

Rathausplatz

Europe's most stunning Christmas market, a festive wonderland with twinkling lights and mulled wine.

Rathaus (City Hall)

Rathaus (City Hall)

Rathausplatz

The magnificent Gothic Revival building that serves as the backdrop for the festive market.

Heart Tree Lighting Ceremony

Heart Tree Lighting Ceremony

Rathausplatz

A romantic hourly spectacle where a heart lights up the tree, a unique Christmas tradition.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything for Rathausplatz

Rathausplatz is most famous for its Christmas market, drawing huge crowds. Visiting on weekdays, especially mornings or late evenings, can offer a slightly less packed experience. Book any special events or tours in advance to avoid disappointment.

Embrace the Festive Spirit

Rathausplatz transforms into a magical Christmas market. Come prepared for sensory delights: twinkling lights, festive music, and the aroma of mulled wine. It's an experience best enjoyed with an open mind and a willingness to immerse yourself in the holiday cheer.

Best Times

When
Weekdays, mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Crowd
Low
When
Weekdays, evenings
Why
Magical lights, festive buzz
Crowd
Medium
When
November - December
Why
Peak Christmas market season
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Ciao Baum! Unsere #Berufsfeuerwehr #Augsburg war am #Rathausplatz und hat den „Christbaum für Alle“ gefällt. #fy #feuerwehr
@stadtaugsburg
4.9K likes • 84.9K views

🎯 Go early for fewer crowds

Beat the rush by visiting the Christmas market on Rathausplatz on weekdays, especially in the morning. Instagram

🍷 Sip on warm mulled wine

Embrace the festive spirit with a cup of 'Glühwein' (mulled wine) – a must-try at the market! Instagram

Enjoy the holidays 🧡 Video by @alexandradts 📍Rathausplatz 🎆 Markets that are still open: New Year‘s markets at Maria-Theresien-Platz, Belvedere & Schönbrunn #vienna_austria #photographer #christmas #culture #xmas #city #traveltips #travel #architecture #love #flowers #art #vacation #urban #weihnachten #cafe #coffee #vienna #nature #beautiful #wien #travelphotography #vienna_city #citylife #stree...
vienna_austria
11K likes • 158K views
Vienna✨Rathausplatz Christmas Market 🎄 #Vienna #Wien #ChristmasTime Have you already visited Vienna during the Christmas magic? #christmas #austria #christmaslights #visitvienna #weihnachtszeit #weihnachten #feelaustria #viennablogger #viennanow #christmasspirit #wienliebe #christmasvibes #nightlights #vienna_city #weihnachtsmarkt #christmasmood #nightlights #nightphotography #mycity
ivana_vienna
45.9K likes • 1M views

📸 Capture the magic

The Rathausplatz Christmas market is incredibly photogenic, especially at night with all the lights. Instagram+1

❤️ Don't miss the heart ceremony

Witness the romantic hourly lighting of the heart tree from dusk until 9 PM. Instagram

✨Only 3 months until Christmas 🎄 Christmas Cities of Austria 📍 Vienna (Wien) — the capital of Christmas markets, especially Rathausplatz and Schönbrunn. 📍 Salzburg — Christkindlmarkt at the cathedral and the magical Hellbrunn Advent. 📍 Innsbruck — markets surrounded by the Alps and the famous Golden Roof. 📍 Hallstatt — a lakeside town that turns into a true winter fairytale. 📍 Zell am See — lak...
travelask.world
64.2K likes • 906.9K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Go early for fewer crowds

Beat the rush by visiting the Christmas market on Rathausplatz on weekdays, especially in the morning. Instagram

🍷 Sip on warm mulled wine

Embrace the festive spirit with a cup of 'Glühwein' (mulled wine) – a must-try at the market! Instagram

📸 Capture the magic

The Rathausplatz Christmas market is incredibly photogenic, especially at night with all the lights. Instagram+1

❤️ Don't miss the heart ceremony

Witness the romantic hourly lighting of the heart tree from dusk until 9 PM. Instagram

🛍️ Browse unique gifts

Discover handcrafted treasures and unique souvenirs at the numerous market stalls. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Rathausplatz is overwhelmingly praised for its spectacular Christmas market, often described as one of Europe's most beautiful. Visitors love the festive atmosphere, the stunning backdrop of the Rathaus, and the wide array of food and gifts. Some find the crowds overwhelming during peak times, and prices can be on the higher side.

What People Like

Magical Christmas market
Stunning Rathaus backdrop
Festive atmosphere

What People Dislike

Very crowded
Can be expensive

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Rathausplatz is easily accessible via public transport. The U2 subway line stops directly at 'Rathaus'. Several tram lines (e.g., 1, 2, D, 71) and bus routes also serve the area. TikTok

Parking directly at Rathausplatz is limited and often reserved. It's highly recommended to use public transport or park in a nearby P+R (Park and Ride) facility and take the subway. Reddit

Yes, Rathausplatz is within walking distance from many central Vienna attractions, including the Hofburg Palace and St. Stephen's Cathedral. It's a pleasant stroll through the city. Instagram

During the Christmas market, public transport is your best bet. The U2 subway is the most direct route. Be prepared for crowds and potential delays if driving. Instagram

Consider purchasing a Vienna Pass or a public transport day ticket for easy and cost-effective travel around the city to reach Rathausplatz and other attractions. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Rathausplatz itself is a public square and is free to enter. However, specific events held there, like the Christmas market, are generally free to browse, though individual attractions or rides within the market may have fees. Instagram

The Wiener Christkindlmarkt on Rathausplatz typically runs from mid-November to December 26th. Opening hours vary, but generally, it's open daily from around 10 AM to 9:30 PM, with slightly later closing on weekends. Check the official website for exact dates and times for the current year. Instagram+1

No, the main Christmas market at Rathausplatz is free to enter and explore. You only pay for food, drinks, souvenirs, or any specific activities like ice skating or carousels. Instagram

The market typically opens in mid-November and closes on December 26th. Specific dates can vary slightly each year, so it's best to confirm the official schedule. Instagram+1

While the market is free, there might be special ticketed events or attractions within the market area, such as ice skating rinks or Ferris wheels. It's advisable to check the event schedule closer to your visit. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

For stunning photos, aim for the 'golden hour' just before sunset or after dark when the Christmas lights are illuminated. Weekday mornings offer fewer people for unobstructed shots. Instagram+1

The entire square is a photo opportunity! Capture the grand Rathaus building, the festive market stalls, the illuminated Christmas tree, and the romantic heart tree. Instagram+1

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the Rathaus and the market. For low-light shots, a camera with good low-light performance and a tripod can be very helpful. Instagram

Drone usage is generally restricted in city centers and around public buildings like the Rathaus. Always check local regulations before flying a drone. Reddit

Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, professional photography or filming may require permits, especially during busy events like the Christmas market. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The market offers a wide array of traditional Austrian Christmas treats, including roasted chestnuts, gingerbread (Lebkuchen), sausages, potato pancakes, and of course, various types of mulled wine (Glühwein) and punch. Instagram

Yes, you can find vegetarian options like potato pancakes (Kartoffelpuffer) and various pastries. Vegan options might be more limited but are often available, especially with roasted vegetables or certain baked goods. Reddit

Prices are typical for a major European Christmas market. Expect to pay a few euros for a cup of mulled wine or a snack, and more for larger meals. It's a festive splurge! Instagram

Yes, the area around Rathausplatz has numerous cafes and restaurants offering a range of Austrian and international cuisine. These provide a more formal dining experience away from the market bustle. Instagram

While you can bring your own water bottle, it's generally expected that you'll purchase food and drinks from the market vendors to support them. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Rathausplatz, especially during the Christmas market, is a fantastic destination for families. Children will be mesmerized by the twinkling lights, festive decorations, and the sheer scale of the market. Look out for the carousel and other traditional fairground rides that are often part of the Christmas market setup. Instagram+1

While the market offers plenty of treats, consider bringing some snacks from home to manage picky eaters. The atmosphere is generally very welcoming to families, but it can get crowded, so keeping a close eye on little ones is essential. The heart tree lighting ceremony is also a magical moment for kids to enjoy. Instagram

💰 Budget Travelers

Rathausplatz itself is free to access, and browsing the Christmas market is also free, making it an excellent budget-friendly activity. You can enjoy the festive atmosphere, admire the decorations, and soak in the sights and sounds without spending a euro. Instagram

To save money on food, consider sharing larger portions or opting for simpler snacks like roasted chestnuts or pretzels. While mulled wine is a must-try, be mindful of the cost if you plan on having several cups. Look for less touristy stalls or consider eating a meal at a more affordable cafe away from the immediate square. Reddit

💖 Couples

Rathausplatz during the Christmas market offers a wonderfully romantic setting. Strolling hand-in-hand through the illuminated stalls, sharing a cup of mulled wine, and enjoying the festive ambiance creates a perfect date experience. Instagram+1

The hourly heart tree lighting ceremony is a particularly charming and romantic spectacle to witness together. Instagram Consider visiting in the evening for the most magical, twinkling atmosphere. The sheer beauty of the Rathaus as a backdrop adds to the romantic appeal. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Magic of the Wiener Christkindlmarkt

Rathausplatz is synonymous with Vienna's most famous Christmas market, the Wiener Christkindlmarkt. This sprawling market transforms the square into a festive wonderland, drawing locals and tourists alike. It's renowned for its stunning decorations, the iconic Rathaus building serving as a breathtaking backdrop, and a wide array of stalls offering everything from handcrafted gifts to delicious seasonal treats. Instagram+2

Visitors can expect to find traditional Austrian Christmas delicacies like roasted chestnuts, gingerbread, and various sausages. The air is filled with the scent of mulled wine (Glühwein) and punch, perfect for warming up on a chilly evening. Beyond the food, the market is a treasure trove of unique souvenirs, from intricate ornaments to handmade crafts. Instagram

One of the market's unique highlights is the hourly 'Christkind' sending its heart from the tower to the 'Tree of Hearts,' a romantic spectacle that lights up the evening. Instagram The market typically runs from mid-November until December 26th, making it a quintessential part of a Viennese Christmas experience. Instagram

Exploring the Rathaus (City Hall)

The Rathaus, Vienna's City Hall, is a magnificent example of Neo-Gothic architecture and a central landmark of Rathausplatz. Its impressive facade, intricate details, and towering spires make it a sight to behold, especially when illuminated during the Christmas season. Instagram+1

While the exterior is a major draw, the Rathaus also offers guided tours that delve into its history and architectural significance. These tours often provide access to its grand halls, council chambers, and the stunning festive decorations during the holiday period. Reddit

During the Christmas market, the Rathaus square in front of the building becomes the heart of the festivities. The building's grandeur provides a spectacular backdrop to the market stalls, creating a truly magical atmosphere that is a highlight for many visitors. Instagram

Navigating Rathausplatz During Peak Season

Visiting Rathausplatz during the Christmas market season (November-December) means embracing crowds. The square can become very busy, especially on weekends and evenings. To make the most of your visit, consider arriving early on weekdays to avoid the peak rush. Instagram+1

Public transportation is highly recommended. The U2 subway line directly serves the 'Rathaus' station, making it the most convenient way to reach the square. Trams and buses also stop nearby. Driving and parking are not advised due to congestion and limited availability. TikTokReddit

Be patient and prepared for a lively, bustling atmosphere. It's part of the charm of experiencing one of Europe's most famous Christmas markets. Keep your belongings secure and enjoy the festive spirit! Instagram

You may also like