Vienna officially launched its 2026 holiday season in early November as the first Christmas markets and city lights flickered to life. The 'Krone' visited Stephansplatz and Schloss Schönbrunn on opening day, noting high midday crowds at catering stalls.
The Vienna Market Office approved 15 markets for 2026, featuring 814 total stalls, including 198 for catering. While most sites open fully on November 20, the Schönbrunn market runs for a record two months, spanning from November 6 through January 6.
Rising costs are evident this year, with mulled wine prices up by 40 cents. A single punch in the city center now reaches 8.50 Euro, while two orange punches cost 12.40 Euro at specific stalls, impacting the many tourists visiting Stephansplatz locations.
