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Vienna Food Tour: Christmas Market Traditions

Indulge in an assortment of festive treats, led by a culinary expert
From US$584 privately
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Tour Details
Duration
2.5 hours
Product Type
Tour
Venues
Local Christmas market
Photos & Highlights
  • Enjoy savory and sweet regional specialities as you stroll through the historic city center with a local expert
  • Taste the best of Vienna's world-famous shops and cuisines –– and collect treats to bring home
Tour Description
Step into a winter wonderland as you explore Vienna's enchanting Christmas Village with a Context expert. The city’s iconic architecture glows with twinkling lights, and the air is filled with the aromas of roasted chestnuts and mulled wine. Quiet corners of the Christmas Village invite you to taste seasonal specialties that are only available during the holidays.

Savor regional dishes like roast potatoes, sausages, and chestnuts. Sip warm punch or Glühwein, nibble on gingerbread and cookies, and try local pastries like Baurenkrapfen and Schneebälle (subject to availability). Tastings are ample enough to satisfy big appetites or share with loved ones. A festive goodie bag, including a souvenir market mug, will keep the holiday spirit alive after the tour.

Guided by a local, you'll not only enjoy the market but also delve into Vienna’s rich history. Learn how the city’s holiday traditions connect with its heritage and take advantage of your time in the market, connecting with the local artisans and perusing a wonderful variety of small handcrafted items such as soap, candles, ceramic ornaments, and wool accessories.

As you sample delicious treats, you'll come to know the traditions and cultures of a Viennese holiday. This tour offers a true immersion into Vienna's Christmas spirit, leaving you with memories to treasure for years to come.

Experts
Katharina Katharina
Historian
Regine Regine
Historian, Art Historian,
Jan Jan
Architect

  • You want to experience Vienna’s Christmas Village beyond just shopping, with expert insights into the site's history and significance.
  • You’d like to understand how Vienna’s holiday traditions reflect its broader cultural and historical context.
  • You want to learn about local holiday customs, from the traditional foods to the unique handcrafted gifts.
  • You’re eager to discover a more personalized and educational take on the festive season, led by an expert.

Here are a few things that previous travelers have tasted on this tour: 
  • Gluehwein/Punsch
  • Langos
  • Lebkuchen
  • Schillerrollen
  • Baummuchen
  • Leberkaese
  • Goulaschsuppe 
  • Almdudler
  • Maroni/Bratkartoffeln
  • Cheese/Sausage
The tour runs during the Christmas season, typically from late November through December. Please dress warmly!

Additional Trip-Planning Resources

  • A few things that pair well with this tour:
  • - Warm, comfortable walking shoes
  • - A camera for capturing the festive decorations
  • - A Vienna audio guide to deepen your understanding of the city’s history
  • - Our lecture on Vienna’s cultural history, available online
Is this Vienna food experience suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, we can adapt this walk to be vegetarian-friendly. Please let us know of any dietary requirements in advance by commenting in the Trip Notes section when placing your order.

What is included in the tasting fee for this tour?
This depends on the operating hours of the shops we frequent, but your taste buds will be happy! Some tastings may include Gluehwein/Punsch, Langos, Lebkuchen, Schillerrollen, Baummuchen, Leberkaese, Goulaschsuppe , Almdudler, Maroni/Bratkartoffeln, Cheese/sausage - with a goodie bag to take home.

Is this Vienna food experience suitable for celiacs or those with gluten sensitivity?
W
e strongly encourage those with gluten intolerance/celiac disease to avoid this particular tour. Almost all typical Christmas foods in Austria, including sausages, include traces of gluten, and we are not in a position to guarantee safe foods for those with allergies or intolerance. 

We understand that some of our valued guests may have mobility concerns, and we want to ensure you have a comfortable and enjoyable experience throughout your tour. If there are any accessibility concerns that your tour guide will need to be aware of, please let our team know at the time of booking.

Is this tour wheelchair-friendly?
This tour is accessible due to the fact that it is in one location and on a campus equipped with ramps, handicapped parking, and handicapped bathrooms accessible from the market.
Book with confidence — see Context's flexible cancellation policy here. 
Where You'll Start
(5.0) 9 Reviews

Reviews can only be left by Context customers after they have completed a tour. For more information about our reviews, please see our FAQ.

Regine did an amazing job of showcasing the Viennese Christmas market foods—and a marvelous job of accommodating gluten-free dietary restrictions on short notice. She researched the foods and cooking methods in advance of our meeting. Her knowledge of history, recipes and cooking was impressive! We loved understanding the history and context behind the traditions and especially appreciated the treats she bestowed and her ability to navigate through the crowded market squares. Kudos, Regine!
It was fantastic!!! Regine was so sweet and attentive!
Regine was delightful and allowed us to taste so many things at the markets we would never have found ourselves. Highly recommend the tour

Experience the Magic of Vienna's Christmas Market Traditions

Embark on an unforgettable journey through Vienna's enchanting holiday season with our Vienna Christmas Market tour. This immersive experience dives deep into the heart of Vienna's festive traditions, offering a unique blend of culinary delights and cultural insights. 

Our tour goes beyond the surface, guided by local experts who provide a rich educational backdrop to your adventure. You'll gain a deeper understanding of Vienna's Christmas heritage and how it reflects the city's history and culture.

If you want to expand your knowledge before or after the tour, explore our detailed Vienna Food Tours blog, which offers insights into the culinary traditions you'll experience. Our Vienna: Austria Exploring lecture is a fantastic resource to prepare for your visit, providing context and depth to your travel experience.

To enhance your journey, and complement the festive atmosphere with Vienna's rich musical heritage, don't miss our Classical Music of Vienna Audio Guide.

Book your Vienna Christmas Market tour today and discover the magic of the season through the eyes of those who know it best.