Vienna’s charm isn’t just in its imperial palaces and classical concerts—it’s also in its lively markets, historic shops, and food stalls. The city’s food markets, like the famous Naschmarkt, are a feast for the senses, offering everything from fresh produce to exotic spices. For an authentic taste of Vienna, we particularly enjoy the Vienna’s Highlights: Food, Coffee and Market Walking Tour because it combines landmarks with culinary delights, off the typical tourist trail, and includes hearty bites and detailed insights into Vienna’s food scene. Whether you’re hunting for vintage fashion, artisanal crafts, or traditional Christmas treats, Vienna has a tour to match your interests—each with its own unique flavor and focus.
This list covers a variety of shopping and market tours—from comprehensive food walks and Christmas market explorations to exclusive vintage shopping and festive day trips. You’ll find options suited for foodies, culture lovers, and those just looking to pick up a special souvenir. Keep reading to discover which experience aligns best with your travel style.
1. Vienna’s Highlights: Food, Coffee and Market Walking Tour
At number 1, this half-day food and market tour combines visiting iconic Vienna landmarks with tasting some of the best bites the city offers. The tour takes you through St. Stephen’s Cathedral and the vibrant Brunnenmarkt, exploring neighborhoods that many visitors never see. The small-group size—just 16 people—means plenty of personalized attention from your guide, Wolfie, who shares stories along the way. Highlights include a Viennese breakfast, Austrian lunch, and street food samples like wurst and chocolates. What makes this tour stand out is its focus on local flavors and hidden spots, making it ideal for food lovers who want an immersive taste of Vienna’s culinary scene. The tour is also environmentally conscious, operated by a B Corp-certified company.
Guests consistently praise this experience for its variety, local insights, and generous tastings. As one reviewer noted, “We traveled all over Vienna and had some of the most amazing food… everything from street vendors to fine dining.” This tour suits travelers who want a balanced mix of sightseeing and eating, with enough food to skip dinner afterward.
Bottom Line: For a comprehensive, tasty introduction to Vienna’s food culture combined with sightseeing, this tour is hard to beat.
2. Highlights of Vienna: Local Food, Coffee & Market Tour
Coming in at number 2, this 6-hour walking tour explores Vienna’s renowned coffeehouse culture and vibrant markets including the Naschmarkt and Brunnenmarkt. Perfect for those who want to experience Vienna’s culinary traditions and lively neighborhoods, this tour features hearty Austrian classics at local eateries, a tasting of Viennese strudel for breakfast, and wine or beer with lunch. The tour’s focus on trendy neighborhoods and authentic street food makes it ideal for travelers who enjoy a more relaxed pace and immersive experience.
The tour starts at WEIN & CO Wien Stephansplatz and is operated by a small group (max 16), ensuring personalized service. It’s environmentally responsible too—carbon neutral and B Corp certified. One reviewer loved how the guide provided insights into Vienna’s food scene and local customs, making it more than just a tasting route.
Bottom Line: This tour offers a well-rounded glimpse of Vienna’s culinary and coffee culture, perfect if you want to savor local flavors and explore trendy districts.
3. Christmas Markets & Shopping in Vienna
At number 3, this Christmas markets and shopping tour delivers a festive blend of boutique shopping and holiday tradition. Led by a knowledgeable local guide, you’ll visit Vienna’s iconic Hotel Sacher, Swarovski Kristallwelten, and the famous Naschmarkt, all while sampling holiday treats like gingerbread and Glühwein. The tour’s focus on authentic local shops and historic markets makes it an excellent choice for those wanting to experience Vienna’s Christmas spirit without the crowds.
Reviews highlight the guide’s storytelling and the quality of the shopping. One traveler appreciated the insider tips about Swarovski and the chance to taste classic Austrian sweets at Café Central. It’s a compact 3-hour experience, making it manageable even during a busy holiday schedule.
Bottom Line: For a cozy, immersive taste of Vienna’s Christmas shopping and market traditions, this tour offers a perfect holiday fix.
4. Vienna: Schönbrunn Christmas Market and Classical Concert
Number 4 features a full sensory experience with the Schönbrunn Christmas Market and Concert. The market, set against the backdrop of the Schönbrunn Palace, is beautifully decorated and offers festive foods. Included is a culinary voucher allowing you to enjoy food and drinks, plus VIP access to the concert hall for a classical music performance by the Schönbrunn Palace Orchestra.
This experience is ideal for travelers seeking a magical holiday atmosphere combined with cultural entertainment. The concert features works by Mozart, and the VIP options enhance the experience with priority seating and drinks. Guests consistently enjoy the setting and the music, describing it as “moving and elegant,” perfect for a special Christmas night out.
Bottom Line: For those wanting to combine Vienna’s royal history with a festive concert, this tour offers a memorable holiday evening.
5. From Vienna: Prague Christmas Market & City Guided Tour
Number 5 is a full-day trip to Prague, perfect for combining shopping with sightseeing. The tour includes hotel pickup, a guided walk of Old Town, Charles Bridge, and Prague Castle, plus visits to famous Christmas markets. The journey includes comfortable transport and an opportunity to sip Czech mulled wine and try local treats like trdelník.
Ideal for travelers who want to see a new city with a Christmas twist, this tour balances cultural sights with market shopping. The price includes round-trip transport, making it a convenient way to explore another capital without hassle.
Bottom Line: If you’re craving a festive day in Prague’s enchanting markets, this well-organized tour offers a detailed experience with plenty of holiday cheer.
6. Christmas Market Vienna Tour
Number 6 is a shorter Christmas Market tour, focused on Vienna’s most beautiful markets like Rathausplatz and Spittelberg. It’s a 2-3 hour stroll designed for travelers who want a quick but authentic holiday experience. The tour includes sampling hot rum punch and cookies, and learning local traditions from your guide.
Reviews note this as a “fun, well-paced tour with interesting stories,” perfect if you’re visiting during the holiday season and want to avoid the larger crowds. It’s a great way to experience Vienna’s festive atmosphere in a manageable timeframe.
Bottom Line: For a concise, festive introduction to Vienna’s Christmas markets, this tour hits all the highlights.
7. Private Christmas Time Tour from Vienna to Hallstatt and Salzburg Market
Number 7 offers a private full-day tour of Austria’s most picturesque Christmas scenes. You’ll visit Hallstatt, known for its fairy-tale setting, and Salzburg’s Christkindlmarkt, one of the oldest. The itinerary includes stops for mulled wine and cookies, with personalized attention from your guide, Jenny.
This option is ideal for travelers seeking a customized, intimate experience of Austria’s holiday spots, with flexible pacing and exclusive access. The private nature means it’s a bit pricier but offers a tailored journey through Christmas magic.
Bottom Line: If you want a private, flexible holiday experience exploring Austria’s most scenic towns, this tour is unmatched.
8. Schönbrunn: Christmas Market, Palace Tour, & Concert
Number 8 combines a Christmas market visit with a guided palace tour and a classical concert. The after-hours visit to Schönbrunn Palace’s rooms is complemented by a festive concert featuring works by Mozart. The experience makes for a perfect holiday evening filled with music, history, and seasonal cheer.
Guests love the combination of royal elegance and Christmas traditions, making it suited for travelers who appreciate cultural events and historic atmospheres. The concert’s free seating and the food voucher add to the value, creating a full evening of entertainment.
Bottom Line: For a festive, cultural night out in Vienna, this combines history and music into a holiday highlight.
9. Vienna: 3-Hour Private Tour with Christmas Market & Upper Belvedere
Number 9 features a private 3-hour tour that explores Baroque architecture at the Belvedere Palace, including its Christmas Market. The tour includes a visit to the famous Gustav Klimt paintings, such as “The Kiss,” and a walk through the palace gardens, all with a private guide.
Ideal for art and architecture lovers, this experience combines cultural richness with holiday traditions. The small group setting ensures personalized attention and deep insights into Vienna’s artistic heritage.
Bottom Line: If you’re interested in art, architecture, and festive markets, this private tour offers a refined holiday experience.
10. Vienna: Christmas Market Food and Drinks Tour
Number 10 is a food and drinks tour, focusing on Christmas treats and warming beverages like Glühwein and Punsch. Over four hours, you’ll visit four lesser-known markets, sampling local delicacies and learning about Austrian winter traditions.
This tour is perfect for foodies who want a relaxed, flavorful experience that also offers insider insights into Vienna’s holiday culinary customs. Reviewers love the large portions and the guide’s storytelling, making it a top choice for those seeking a full-flavored holiday adventure.
Bottom Line: For a festive culinary journey through Vienna’s Christmas markets, this tour combines authentic bites and cozy drinks.
11. Vienna Christmas Market Food and Drink Tour
Number 11 is a smaller Christmas Market Food and Drink Tour, with just 3 reviews but consistently excellent ratings. It emphasizes authentic Viennese market experiences, sampling traditional foods like Kaiserschmarrn and Baumkuchen, plus glühwein and punch.
Ideal for travelers wanting an intimate, personalized tasting experience, this tour navigates Vienna’s most beloved markets and focuses on seasonal specialties. Reviewers mention the knowledgeable guide and the generosity of the tastings.
Bottom Line: If you prefer a smaller group and authentic food experiences, this tour delivers a festive, delicious sampling.
12. Vienna Private Shopping: Vintage Treasures & Champagne
Number 12 is a luxury vintage shopping experience that combines high-end bags and apparel with champagne and chocolates. The private access to a boutique, along with a store credit of €25, makes it a perfect indulgence for fashion lovers.
This tour is best suited for travelers interested in fashion and exclusive shopping, especially those who appreciate authentic vintage pieces. The guide personalizes your experience, helping you find treasures like Hermes, Dior, and Gucci at friendly prices. A review describes it as “a comfortable, private experience with extensive collections and friendly staff.”
Bottom Line: For those who want to combine shopping with a touch of luxury, this private vintage tour offers exclusivity and style.
13. Christmas Market Photo Shoot Vienna
Number 13 offers a Christmas market photo shoot perfect for capturing memories. With atmospheric images against Vienna’s holiday backdrop, this experience is ideal for families or couples wanting professional photos.
The session lasts about an hour and includes natural and posed shots at some of Vienna’s most scenic markets. Reviewers say it’s a fun, relaxing way to get stunning holiday photos without the stress of doing it yourself.
Bottom Line: If you want beautiful, professional holiday photos in Vienna’s festive setting, this personalized shoot is an excellent choice.
14. Vienna’s Christmas Market Magic Tour
Number 14 is a short Christmas Market tour focusing on local stories and craft. It includes stops at Friedrich-Schmidt-Platz and Maria Theresien Square, where your guide shares tales and insights into Vienna’s Christmas traditions.
Ideal for travelers seeking a cultural and storytelling-rich experience, it’s a 1-hour journey that highlights the city’s festive spirit through local customs and handcrafted gifts.
Bottom Line: For a quick, story-driven introduction to Vienna’s Christmas magic, this tour offers a meaningful holiday experience.
15. Vienna Christmas Market Private Walking Tour with Local Guide
Rounding out the list, this private walking tour is tailored just for you, offering a personalized exploration of Vienna’s Christmas markets. Your dedicated guide customizes the itinerary to suit your interests, from famous landmarks to hidden corners.
It’s perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers wanting a bespoke experience. The tour lasts roughly 3 hours, with options to focus on food, shopping, or cultural sights.
Bottom Line: If you prefer a flexible, private tour that adapts to your holiday wishes, this personalized experience ensures you see Vienna exactly as you want.
How to Choose the Best Shopping & Market Tour in Vienna
When deciding between these options, consider your budget, time, and interests. For food lovers, Vienna’s Highlights offers a full culinary immersion, while those craving Christmas cheer should check out Christmas Markets & Shopping in Vienna. Art and architecture enthusiasts will enjoy the Upper Belvedere private tour, and fashion fans can indulge in vintage shopping with Vintage treasures & Champagne.
Timing also matters—some tours are shorter, perfect for a quick holiday fix, while others, like the private day trips, suit travelers wanting an in-depth experience. Booking early is recommended, especially during the busy Christmas season, to secure your spot on popular tours.
Final Thoughts
Vienna’s shopping and market scene offers a spectrum of experiences—from foodie explorations and historic markets to exclusive shopping and festive events. The food and market tours are perfect for those wanting a hearty taste of the city’s flavors, while the Christmas market experiences bring holiday magic to life. For a personalized touch, private tours or shopping excursions enhance the experience further.
Whether you prefer wandering historic markets, savoring seasonal treats, or hunting for vintage treasures, Vienna delivers memorable shopping and market adventures. Book early if visiting during peak seasons, and enjoy exploring the city’s rich, flavorful, and festive side.