When I’m travelling, grocery shopping is one of my very favourite things to do. I love reading labels in another language, hunting out regional products, and experimenting in the kitchen later. Vienna has several daily markets where shoppers can find fresh fruits and vegetables from local farms, and small-batch products made on nearby living room tables.
Naschmarkt
By far the most well-known market in Vienna, Naschmarkt has more than 120 stalls run by permanent vendors. Located along 1.5 kilometres between Karlsplatz and Kettenbrückengasse just adjacent to the Linke Wienzeile, this market dates back to the 16th century and is known for its sheer variety of foodstuffs. Duck off the main walkway to find stalls selling textiles, leather goods, and souvenirs.
If you’re looking for the action, the best time to visit the Naschmarkt is on Saturdays. Not only is this a popular shopping day for locals but a weekly flea market opens up, adding to the excitement.
The Naschmarkt is open between 6:00am and 7:30pm Monday through Friday, and 6:00am to 6:00pm on Saturdays. Arrive at Karlsplatz Station (U1, U2, U4) or Kettenbrückengasse Station (U4).
Brunnenmarkt
Vienna’s largest market is located in Vienna’s district 16 on the western outskirts of the city. Brunnenmarkt has more than 170 stalls and attracts fewer tourists than Naschmarkt, so prices tend to be lower and the variety of items higher. If you have the time to travel, this is worth the trip to see what a “real farmer’s market” is like in the capital.
Given the area, which is home to many Turkish and Balkan Viennese, this is a good place to try the kebab. It’s also worth walking over to nearby Yppenmarkt, at the Yppenplatz. The area has become popular with young, arty types, and there are many interesting shops nearby.
The Brunnenmarkt is open between 6:00am and 7:30pm Monday through Friday, and 6:00am to 5:00pm on Saturdays. Food stands are open from 6:00am to 11:00pm, Monday through Saturday. Arrive at Josefstädter Straße Station (U6) or Alser Straße Station (U6).
Karmelitermarkt
Located in Vienna’s district 2, only about 10 minutes on from the centre of foot, the Karmelitermarkt is a space for artisans and farmers to sell their wares. The market has been around since 1671, but has more recently been undergoing a renaissance with the opening of galleries, studios, and bars. (Tip: For coffee and a treat try nearby Fett+Zucker—or, “fat and sugar”—a newish café offering drinks and baked good. Gluten-free options are available.)
The area around the market is ethnically diverse, with a large population of Hassidic Jews, so this is a great place to buy kosher. Because Karmelitermarkt is smaller than Naschmarkt and Brunnenmarkt, you can shop here with more of a neighbourhood feeling.
The Karmelitermarkt is open between 6:00am and 7:30pm Monday through Friday, and 6:00am to 5:00pm on Saturdays. Food stands are open from 6:00am to 11:00pm, Monday through Saturday. Arrive at Nestroyplatz Station (U1) or Tabortraße Station (U2).
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