A 7-Day Vienna and  Prague Christmas Market Itinerary

Discover the magic of Europe’s most beautiful city paired with its premier Christmas market destination in this enchanting 7-day Vienna and Prague itinerary. Vienna, renowned for hosting over 20 famous Christmas markets, is arguably the world’s best large city for festive celebrations. Meanwhile, Prague stands out as one of Europe’s most romantic and picturesque cities.

Vienna and Prague offer a perfect blend of festive cheer, the best Christmas markets, and rich cultural experiences. This 7-day itinerary will guide you through four magical nights in Vienna and three enchanting nights in Prague, ensuring you soak up the best of these historic cities during the most beautiful time of the year.

What Are Christmas Markets?

European Christmas markets are festive outdoor markets held during Advent, typically from late November to December, leading up to Christmas. Originating in Germany, these markets have spread throughout Europe and beyond, becoming a beloved holiday tradition. They are known for their charming ambiance, often set in historic town squares and adorned with festive decorations and lights.

Check out my first-timer’s guide to Vienna Christmas Markets!

7 Night Itinerary For Central Europe’s Christmas Markets

Day 1-4 Vienna, Austria

Day 1: Arrival and Initial Exploration

Afternoon: Explore the Innere Stadt
No matter how exhausted you are from your long day of travel, hit the ground running with a stroll around the city center, known as the Innere Stadt or First District. This is the perfect way to get a feel for Vienna’s festive atmosphere. and to start your 7-day Vienna and Prague Christmas Market itinerary. Make your way to the Christmas Market at Stephansplatz around the iconic St. Stephen’s Cathedral. The sun sets around 4 pm in December, so stick around long enough to see the market lights illuminate the night.

Travel Tip: Certain markets are great to see during the daylight hours, but several are must-sees after dark. Be sure to visit the Rathausplatz market at night; it is incredible with all the lights. Belvedere Palace and Schönbrunn Palace are also worth the trip after dark, offering magical nighttime experiences. Something special happens at the Spittelberg Market at night, transforming it into a cozy and enchanting spot.

Evening: Late Lunch or Dinner at Palmenhaus Cafe
If you’ve just arrived after a long flight and are adjusting to the time change, a good choice for dining is the Palmenhaus Cafe. It’s perfect for a late lunch or early dinner. The setting is charming, in a grand, glass palm house near the Hofburg. Here, you can relax and enjoy a delicious meal while soaking in the unique ambiance.

Day 2: A Day Filled with Food and Christmas Markets

Morning: Food Tour of Vienna
Start your day with an incredible food tour of Vienna. A tour is a fantastic way to get acquainted with the city’s culinary delights. During a winter tour, you typically visit a café for traditional Viennese coffee, explore a bustling food market, stop at a restaurant for some Austrian beer and Wiener Schnitzel, and end at a Christmas market to enjoy mulled wine. Your local guide can also answer questions and suggest other things to see in Vienna. If you are not a foodie, look into local walking tours; it’s a great way to start your visit.

Mid-Morning: Spittelberg Christmas Market
After your food tour, wander through the Spittelberg Christmas Market. Nestled in narrow streets, this market offers an array of crafts, art, and delicious treats. Spittelberg, one of the smaller markets, is also one of Vienna’s most quaint and intimate, spread over four cobblestone streets. It provides some of the best Christmas shopping in the city, blending craft stalls with food vendors. Plus, there are several inviting shops where you can warm up and escape the cold.

Afternoon: Maria-Theresien-Platz Market
Our goal today is to visit as many markets as possible. Next, take a short stroll to the Museum Quarter and explore the Maria-Theresien-Platz Market. If you love markets with the backdrop of grand imperial buildings, this is the place for you. Featuring over 70 stalls, this market offers a rich selection of goods. After browsing, take a short walk to Glacis Beisl to enjoy traditional Austrian cuisine or warm up with a bonfire and mulled wine in the courtyard.

Optional Treat: Sacher Torte
If you’re craving a Sacher Torte from the famed Hotel Sacher, now is the time to indulge. Make a reservation, and even then, be prepared to stand in line. The café is located just a short stroll from Maria-Theresien-Platz. Alternatively, you can be like me, walk by, be thankful you are not standing in line, and try a Sacher Torte at a less touristy destination. 

Evening: Karlsplatz Christmas Market
Take a short walk from here to the Karlsplatz Christmas Market, known for its artisanal goods and unique atmosphere. Set in front of the imposing Baroque Karlskirche church, this market, formally known as Art Advent, features stalls with products that must meet specific criteria (Austrian-based and not mass-produced). This is the perfect place to eat if you’re hungry after the filling food tour this morning. Grab a Käsekrainer (sausage) or Langos along with a Glühwein.

By the end of the day, you’ll have immersed yourself in Vienna’s rich culinary culture and festive market scene, making for an unforgettable experience.

Day 3: City Center Markets and Cultural Highlights

Morning: Schönbrunn Palace
Begin your third day with a visit to the magnificent Schönbrunn Palace. Enjoy a tour of the opulent rooms, immersing yourself in the history and splendor of the Habsburg dynasty. After the tour, explore the Christmas market on the palace grounds, which typically opens in mid-November and runs until Christmas. This market is in a particularly grand and beautiful location, making it a must-visit.

Travel Tip: Book your tickets for an early entry or purchase the Sisi Ticket, which allows entry without a reserved time slot and includes access to the Sisi Apartments at the Hofburg and the Vienna Furniture Museum. Arriving early in the day helps avoid the crowds. The Christmas market will open up when you finish touring the palace and its grounds.

Getting There: Schönbrunn Palace is located outside Vienna’s city center. The easiest way to reach it is by taking the U4 subway line to Schönbrunn Station. The entrance is a short walk past a car park – follow the crowds!

Evening: Dinner and Festive Stroll
For dinner, indulge in traditional Viennese cuisine at Plachutta Wollzeile, renowned for its Tafelspitz (boiled beef). After dinner, take a leisurely stroll back to your hotel via the Graben, adjacent to Stephansplatz Square.

Night: Rathausplatz Christmas Market
Conclude your evening at the Rathausplatz Market to see the grand Christmas tree and the illuminated Town Hall. This is the pinnacle of Vienna’s Christmas markets, renowned for its stunning setting and electric atmosphere. Located in front of City Hall, the market features over 100 stalls, a carousel, and an ice rink that winds through the market, creating a joyful ambiance.

Crowd Tip: The market is extremely crowded, especially at night and on weekends. In 2023, it was estimated that over 3 million people visited this market, with nearly 800,000 coming from outside Austria. Despite the crowds, the festive atmosphere is part of the charm. Embrace the bustling environment and enjoy the magical experience.

While this market may not be the best for shopping or dining, it creates a magical atmosphere. Look for the incredible Christmas tree, the enchanting tree of hearts (an excellent spot for photos), and the winding paths that make this market one of the best in Europe.

Day 4: Belvedere and Hofburg Palace

Morning: Hofburg Palace Exploration
Start your day at the grand Hofburg Palace, the enormous imperial palace of the Habsburg dynasty and the current official residence and workplace of the president of Austria. Begin with a tour of the Sisi Apartments to glimpse a small portion of this vast complex. Don’t miss the famed Spanish Riding School, renowned for its Lipizzaner horses and classical dressage performances.

Afternoon: Belvedere Palace and Christmas Village
In the afternoon, head to the Belvedere Palace and its enchanting Christmas Village. Known for its stunning Baroque backdrop, the Belvedere Palace complex houses 800 years of art history. Tour the museum to see masterpieces by Klimt, Funke, and van Gogh. After soaking in the art, step outside to the Christmas market in front of the Upper Belvedere Palace. This market is smaller and less hectic than those at Rathausplatz and Stephansplatz, with only 40 stalls, making it a more intimate and romantic setting, especially in the evening.

Evening: Dinner and Musical Experience
For dinner tonight, you have two delightful options: Market Delights: Revisit your favorite Christmas markets and savor the diverse offerings from the food stalls. Austrian Cuisine: Head to ef16 Restaurant for a more sophisticated meal featuring traditional Austrian dishes.

To cap off your evening, consider arranging a classical music concert at one of Vienna’s many venues. This is a fantastic way to explore the famous city of music and experience the beauty of one of its historic churches or concert halls. Enjoying a concert before or after dinner will add a special touch to your Vienna experience. Oh, and on your way home, cap the night off with a steamy mug of Weihnachtspunsch (Christmas Punch) at stalls all over the city.

Day 5-7 Prague, Czech Republic

When you arrive in Prague, you will notice that we only really plan for two Christmas markets. Unlike Vienna, which is a Christmas Market city on steroids, Prague’s Christmas Markets are much smaller. The three days in Prague will be more about exploring the city with the two main markets as a backdrop.

Day 5: Travel to Prague And Explore a Bit

Morning: Train from Vienna to Prague
Start your day by taking a train from Vienna to Prague, a scenic journey of approximately four hours that offers beautiful views of the Austrian and Czech countryside.

Travel Tip: Book your train tickets beforehand, especially during the busy holiday season. Reserving a seat is highly recommended for comfort, and the cost is minimal. First Class is also worth considering for a little extra room on this longer journey. This is an important part of planning your Vienna and Prague Christmas Market Itinerary.

Book your train tickets with Trainline; it is the best booking service!

Afternoon: Arrival in Prague
You will arrive at Prague’s central train station, which is conveniently located and likely a short walk from your hotel. After dropping off your luggage, set out to explore the city. It will probably be late afternoon by this time, perfect for an initial stroll.

Evening: Wenceslas Square Christmas Market
Begin your exploration at the Wenceslas Square Christmas Market. This market stretches along the square and ends at the Národní Museum, providing a grand backdrop. The centerpiece is a beautiful Christmas tree surrounded by festive stalls, mainly offering food and drink. Enjoy the lively atmosphere, visit the small skating rink, and explore the nearby shops and businesses along the square.

Later Evening: Old Town Square Christmas Market
Next, head to Old Town Square for the largest Christmas market in Prague. This market features a broader selection of vendors and food stalls and is the focal point of the holiday season in Prague. The grand Christmas tree, festive Christmas music, and stunning setting create a magical experience.

If you’re ready for a sit-down meal after indulging in market treats, consider dining at Restaurant Mincovna. It is located just off the square and offers a decent goulash and a welcoming atmosphere.

Nightcap: Traditional Beer Hall Experience
Cap your evening with a visit to Dlouhááá Lokal. This traditional beer hall evokes the stark interior design style of the communist era in the Czech Republic. Here, you can enjoy a Pilsner for about $2.99, often cheaper than water, and soak up the authentic local vibe.

By the end of the evening, you’ll have had a delightful introduction to Prague’s festive spirit and local culture, setting the stage for the rest of your adventure in this enchanting city.

Day 6: Old Town, Jewish Quarter, and Charles Bridge

Morning: Deep Dive into Old Town
Begin your day in the historic Old Town section of Prague. Last night, we explored the Christmas market here, but today, we’ll take a deeper dive. Start with the famous Astronomical Clock Tower, both inside and out. Don’t miss the show at the top of every hour from 9 am to 11 pm when the clock chimes and the figures come to life. You can also tour the town hall and see the clock’s inner workings. Tickets are available online.

Mid-Morning: Jewish Quarter Exploration
Adjacent to Old Town is the Jewish Quarter, a fascinating area with a rich history. Although most of the old Jewish Quarter was destroyed in the late 1800s, six synagogues, the old cemetery, and the Old Jewish Town Hall remain. These are all part of the Jewish Museum in Prague. The best way to explore is by purchasing a museum ticket, which gives you access to these historical sites.

Afternoon: Charles Bridge and Lesser Town
From the Jewish Quarter, take a short walk to the iconic Charles Bridge, a pedestrian-only bridge and one of Prague’s top attractions. Once you cross the bridge to Lesser Town (Malá Strana), make your way under the bridge to find a quaint, small Christmas Market. This market features several stalls in an intimate setting, perfect for a cozy afternoon stroll.

Explore the nearby St. Nicholas Church, a stunning example of Prague’s Baroque architecture. This area is also great for grabbing a hot drink and slipping into a few charming shops.

Evening: Food Tour or Dinner Cruise
End your day with a fantastic food tour. Food tours are a great way to discover less touristy areas of the city and sample local cuisine. Plus, if language is a barrier, a food tour can introduce you to some excellent dining spots.

Alternatively, consider a dinner cruise on the Vltava River. These cruises offer stunning views of Prague’s illuminated landmarks, providing a magical and memorable dining experience.

Day 7: Prague Castle and Lesser Town

Morning: Prague Castle Exploration
Start your day at the magnificent Prague Castle. Explore its expansive grounds and visit the iconic St. Vitus Cathedral with its stunning Gothic architecture. See the historic St. George’s Basilica within the castle complex. While the castle complex is vast, you can comfortably cover the main highlights in a morning visit. 

Note: As of 2023, the Christmas Market at the castle no longer exists, but there is still plenty to see and do within the complex.

Afternoon: Vyšehrad or Petřín Tower
After your castle visit, head to one of two spectacular sites: Vyšehrad or Petřín Tower. 

• Vyšehrad: As you gaze down the Vltava River from Prague Castle, you’ll notice two tall spires on a hill. That is Vyšehrad, the oldest seat of Czech princes, established in the 10th century. The area offers breathtaking views of the city. It is home to remarkable architectural treasures, including the neo-Gothic Church of Saints Peter and Paul, a captivating cemetery, and underground casemates housing some original statues from the Charles Bridge.
• Petřín Tower: Opposite Prague Castle on another hill stands the 208-foot-tall Petřín Tower, inspired by the Eiffel Tower in Paris and constructed in 1891. You can climb the 299 steps to the top (or take the elevator) for panoramic views of the entire city, making the climb well worth the effort.

Evening: Dinner and Christmas Market Delight
For dinner, make a reservation at Kro Kitchen, a small restaurant known for its excellent food and casual, vibrant atmosphere. Don’t miss their brown butter soy sauce, one of the best dishes you’ll ever taste.

After dinner, return to the Old Town Market and the Wenceslas Square Market. If you have yet to experience these markets at night, you’re in for a real treat. The festive lights and lively atmosphere create a magical ending to your Prague adventure. Top the evening off with a farewell cocktail at L’fleur cocktail bar, a great place to try a Becherovka sour. 

The Best Way To Get Around Both Cities

Vienna Public Transportation

Public Transport: Vienna boasts an efficient and comprehensive public transport system, including buses, trams, and the U-Bahn (subway). The Vienna City Card is an excellent option for visitors, offering unlimited travel on public transport and discounts at various attractions. It is available for 24, 48, or 72 hours. Alternatively, the Wiener Linien single tickets are also available for shorter trips.

• Vienna City Card: 24 hours (€17 / ~$18), 48 hours (€25 / ~$27), 72 hours (€29 / ~$31)
• Single Ticket: €2.40 / ~$2.55 per ride

Walking: The Innere Stadt (First District) is very walkable, with many attractions within a short distance of each other. Exploring on foot lets you enjoy the city’s stunning architecture and charming streets leisurely.

Taxis and Ride-sharing: Taxis are readily available throughout the city but can be more expensive than public transport. Ride-sharing services like Uber operate in Vienna, offering a convenient and often cheaper alternative to traditional taxis.

Prague Public Transportation

Public Transport: Prague’s public transport system includes buses, trams, and the metro. While the Prague Visitor Pass offers access to public transport and attractions, it tends to be too costly unless you plan to visit many attractions. To maximize your budget, consider purchasing day passes for public transport, which offer unlimited travel for a set period.

• 1-Day Pass (24 hours): 120 CZK / ~$5.50
• 3-Day Pass (72 hours): 330 CZK / ~$15
• Single Ticket: 30-minute ticket (30 CZK / ~$1.40), 90-minute ticket (40 CZK / ~$1.85)

Walking: Prague’s historic center is compact and highly walkable. 

Taxis and Ride-sharing: While taxis are available, it is advisable to use reputable companies or apps to avoid potential overcharging. Uber and Bolt are popular ride-sharing services in Prague, offering reliable and often cheaper alternatives to traditional taxis.

Using public transport, walking, and occasional ride-sharing, you can easily and efficiently navigate Vienna and Prague.

Weather in Vienna and Prague in Late November and December

Vienna: Expect cold temperatures ranging from -1°C to 9°C (30°F to 48°F). The weather is typically damp, with a mix of rain, occasional snow, and overcast skies. Frosty mornings and chilly evenings are common.

Prague: The weather is similarly cold, with temperatures between -3°C and 7°C (27°F to 45°F). Expect overcast skies, possible snow, and frosty conditions. Snowfall is more likely towards the end of December. 

I found Prague much colder than Vienna. I was also fortunate enough to visit last year during a historic snowstorm. I learned that when traveling the Christmas Markets of Europe, one must be prepared for anything. Dress warmly with layers and waterproof footwear, and be prepared for short daylight hours.

Packing Suggestions for Vienna and Prague Itinerary

• Warm Layers: Pack thermal shirts, sweaters, and a good winter coat for the cold temperatures.
• Waterproof Footwear: Bring sturdy, waterproof shoes or boots for wet and snowy conditions.
• Accessories: Include a hat, gloves, and scarf to stay warm in the chilly weather.
• Comfortable Walking Shoes: Essential for exploring the cities on foot.
• Umbrella: A compact umbrella can be helpful in unexpected rain/snow.
• Travel Adapter: This is for charging your electronics in European outlets.

These essentials will help you stay comfortable and enjoy your Vienna and Prague Christmas Market itinerary. After my last European Christmas Market trip, I created a useful packing guide for men.

Where To Stay In Vienna and Prague

When looking for a place to stay, you have a lot of choices, from luxury to budget. If you are on the luxury side of things, you will want to check out the Hotel Imperial and the Ritz-Carlton. 

Vienna is an expensive place for hotels, but you can also find some moderately priced options. Places to explore include Hotel Sans Souci Wien, which has excellent reviews, and Hotel Rathaus Wein & Design, where I stayed on a recent visit. The rooms are large, and the location is perfect. 

I highly recommend the Hotel BoHo Prague for your stay. It’s an ideally located boutique hotel with exceptional rooms and service. Prague is a much more affordable destination when compared to Vienna. Another solid option is THE MANES Boutique Hotel, which is modern and chic.

Unforgettable 7-Day Vienna/Prague Christmas Market Itinerary

Your 7-day Christmas Market itinerary through Vienna and Prague promises to be an unforgettable holiday experience, blending the festive charm of Europe’s premier Christmas markets with the rich cultural tapestry of these historic cities. Vienna’s abundance of Christmas markets offers a dazzling array of festive sights. At the same time, Prague’s enchanting atmosphere provides a perfect backdrop for exploring timeless traditions and stunning architecture. 

If you are Llooking for more ideas on Christmas Market travel, check out my posts Top 10 European Christmas Markets In One Trip, and Top Tips For First-Time Vienna Christmas Market Visit. If you can’t make it to Europe, find the best markets in the US with my post 21 Best Christmas Markets in The US for 2024.

From Vienna’s opulent palaces and vibrant markets to Prague’s romantic streets and historic landmarks, this itinerary ensures you’ll savor the best of both cities. Enjoy the seasonal cheer, taste the delicious holiday treats, and immerse yourself in the magic of these winter wonderlands.

Whether you’re marveling at Vienna’s illuminated Rathausplatz or strolling through Prague’s cozy markets, each day of this journey is crafted to offer a memorable holiday experience. Embrace the festive spirit, stay warm and comfortable, and let the charm of Vienna and Prague enchant you throughout this magical Christmas adventure.

More Christmas Travel Ideas!