I am a market lover!
To me, markets are places filled with colors, smells and tastes. They are full of smiles, laughs and exciting cries announcing the freshness of a product or the deliciousness of a local delicacy.
One of my main travel objectives is to visit a market in cities known for them. It doesn’t matter if it is a covered, open-air or temporal market. I have been able to do this in cities like Barcelona, Tijuana, Oaxaca, Valencia and Madrid.
When I was researching things to do in Vienna, I stumbled upon a page talking about Naschmarkt, Vienna’s most popular and largest outdoor market.
Noticed I have used words such as “popular” and “largest” to describe the market. The thing is that while I was trying to inquire more about this place, I couldn’t find good descriptions, nice photos or enough reasons to visit. Seems like it wasn’t in any “top 10” lists of the city.
We decided to stop by since we had to eat breakfast anyway (and I hoped to find something in there). That is how we proceeded to take the Metro to Kettenbruckengasse Station.
Table of Contents
Vienna Naschmarkt
We got out and start seeing stalls full of colorful shirts, hippie pants, and accessories (caps, scarves, etc.). We walked a little bit more and that is when the beauty of this place started to unfold.
We started to see stalls containing hundreds of little bags filled with spices. We inspected the names and discovered things we have never seen in our lives. One of the attendants explained the origin of some of the powders, leaves, and grains. We bought bags containing known and unknown contents.
The awakening of the senses continued for about two more hours. After all, the market is about one mile long (1.5 km). It ended up being one of the best markets I have ever visited. We liked it so much that we returned the 4th day of our stay.
I am not sure how the name Naschmarkt came into existence. I found two versions. One says the market has origins in the 16th century when milk bottles were sold in the area. During those times, milk bottles were made out of ash. Hence the “Aschenmarkt” which with time evolved to the way it is called nowadays.
Another version of the story says the market’s original name was Kärntnertormarkt. This was the bridge which was at that time called Kärntnertorbrücke, but is now Elisabethbrücke, later it spread along to reach Karlsplatz. This story does not provide an explanation of how or when the modern term started to be used.
Nowadays, the market is full of fresh fruit and vegetables from around the world (I even saw cactus fruit), exotic herbs, cheese, baked goods, meats, and seafood. Artisan products such as vinegar, oil, sausage, and pastries can be found too. They can be bought as souvenirs or gifts (we bought flavored vinegar and oil and they were superb).
In addition, the market affords the opportunity to try or buy Austrian bread, cheese, and wine. World famous Austrian cakes and pastries are there too for your enjoyment.
But, do not worry, international fare such as doner kebabs, sushi, and kimchi are available in the market. I noticed this is a perfect place to sample some Mediterranean and Middle Eastern specialties. They have the plumpest, most colorful olives, figs, baklava, hummus, baba ganoush and fruits and vegetables stuffed with feta or other regional cheeses.
There are many things to eat on the go but there are also many small restaurants which offer traditional Viennese, French or Italian food. You can sit, people watch and enjoy the atmosphere. They have indoor or outdoor seats.
As I mentioned, I visited the Naschmarkt twice. The first time, we arrived around 10:00 a.m. There weren’t a lot of people around and most of the restaurants were closed. There was plenty of space to walk, move and engage in conversation with vendors. It was the perfect time to walk slowly while absorbing all the sights.
The second time, we arrived close to 6:00 p.m. In this case, stalls and stores selling goods were closing down. On the contrary, all restaurants were open, there was live music and the food was being prepared on the streets. The market was way more crowded and the atmosphere was very lively.
So, your experience will be affected by the time of the day you choose to visit. I enjoyed seeing both faces of the market. They were as different as day and night.
On Saturday, a flea market takes place at one end of the market. This adds an additional dimension to the place. I can imagine how nice things get when you have additional vendors and good on the grounds.
In summary, I loved, loved Naschmarkt. It is way more than I was expecting. The place is full of gorgeous food and produce but most important; it is full of friendly and happy people. They give you a warm welcome into their stalls and they share with you things they have prepared with their hands. Human interaction is what I crave during my travels and I was able to find it in this beautiful place.
Naschmarkt Wien Location
- The market is located between Karlsplatz and Kettenbrückengasse
- It is best reached by Metro. You can come out of either Kettenbrückengasse Station on the U4 line or if you prefer Station Karlsplatz that is on three lines U1, U2, and U4
Naschmarkt Wien Hours
- The market is open every day except Sundays
- Stalls are open from early morning to around 7:30 p.m. Closing time is around 5:00 p.m. on Saturdays
- For buying/eating, the market is at best during midday. For dining/open-air entertainment, visit on the evening
- Restaurants located inside the market close late (think 12:00 a.m.)
Other Markets in Vienna
If you are a market lover, check out these other cool places in Vienna:
- Brunnenmarkt
- Kutschkermarkt
- Spittelberg Market (once a month)
- Neubaugasse Flea Market (twice a year)
Other Markets in Europe
- Mercado San Miguel– Madrid
- La Boqueria– Barcelona
- Mercat Central– Valencia
- Great Market Hall – Budapest
- Viktualienmarkt – Munich
More of Vienna
- Even if you are short on time, you can enjoy the best of Vienna in one day
- If you have more than one day in the city, I encourage you to read my post on what to do in Vienna in 1, 2 or 3 days
- Hundertwasserhaus – Explosion of Color in Vienna
- The official tourism site is a great source of information
Other European Capitals
Would you like to visit Naschmarkt?
Ready to pin? Let’s do it!
Paula McInerney says
I do love markets, even if I don’t buy anything. I love looking at the produce from different places. This one in Vienna looks amazing.
Ruth says
I am the same. My main purpose is to take a look not to buy. But have to say most times I end buying something. In here, we had a doner kebab and baklava.
Natasha says
Love all of the colours and foods on display here – the (peaches or nectarines?) were my favourite, the colour is lovely. Vienna has been on my list for a long time so seeing these just makes me want to go there all the more! Thank you too, for all of the kind comments you always leave me, they mean a lot. – Tasha
Ruth says
Tasha, your welcome. I love to check out your blog and see what great photos you took during the week. I love that picture featuring the peaches and nectarines too!
image-in-ing: weekly photo linky says
Gosh that looks amazing!!!
Thanks for joining us at https://image-in-ing.blogspot.com/2016/12/the-church-of-transfiguration.html
Ruth says
Thanks a lot!
Photo Cache says
I love markets too, and I would buy something with unknown contents for the heck of it!
Have you been to Lisbon? Any tips on which market to visit?
Ruth says
We bought certain spices and the flavor ended up being very interesting. So, yes, I think it is a good idea to buy even though you do not know the contents. I have not been to Lisbon (so sad!).
ladyfi says
What an amazing market.
Ruth says
Great you liked it! It is one of the best markets I have been to.
Kelleyn says
I am sad we didn’t get to see this market when we were there last year!
Ruth says
Well, there will be a next time (I hope). I am sure you got to see a lot of nice sights in Vienna.
Lolo says
You just made me hungry and I’m ready for bed now! Great, thanks! haha #CityTripping
Ruth says
Ok, so hopefully, you will have food dreams. I get those once in a while, mainly when I go to bed hungry.
Molly says
So much delicious things to pick from
mollyxxx
Ruth says
I know. It is hard to pick only a few things. That is why we went back for a second round.
Van says
I absolutely love markets and this one would be dangerous for my bank account for sure 😉
Ruth says
I can see that happening. There are certain unique things in the market that you feel like buying. They are not necessarily cheap.
Angie (FeetDoTravel) says
Markets are fantastic aren’t they, there is always so much going on and on a side-note, I love the colours you have captured (especially the purple carrots … are they purple carrots?). I thought it was interesting that it was busier in the evening than in the morning so thanks for sharing that information. #WanderfulWednesday
Ruth says
Yes, those are purple carrots. They are a thing and very popular at markets in Southern California.
Al says
Wow – there’s so much colorful food there, it’s making me hungry.
Ruth says
That is exactly why I liked this place. Couldn’t believe all the colors surrounding me.
Rhonda says
This market looks fantastic. I always like markets that have fresh food. I usually make a meal out of local produce and specialties.
Ruth says
Me too! The produce in here was really good. Who says you cannot ear healthy while traveling?
Sharon says
What an abundance of riches. It must have been so fun to eat and partake in a photo safari there.
Ruth says
It would be nice to go on a photo tour of the place (maybe something like that exists). I would have liked to take a look at the flea market.
Marcella ~ WhatAWonderfulWorld says
These colours!! I love markets that show off the colours of the rainbow and with this many tasty treats! Take me there 😉
Ruth says
Great! There is definitely enough colors to form a rainbow. It would be nice to visit a market like this with a group of bloggers and photographers.
David says
Great write up Ruth. I’ve walked past the Naschmarkt quite a bit and do think its worth a visit. I found it rather strange how much Middle-eastern and Russian foods and spices you can find there, but yes there are quite a few restaurants and beisls. My parents and I wondered about the name of the market and found that “Naschen” means to snack, so we assumed it was the “Snack Market”. #WanderfulWednesday
Ruth says
Well, that explanation about the name sounds good to me ;0) I got the same feeling about the Middle Eastern vendor. What was funny is that they were listening to some music by Puerto Rican artists.
Cathy (MummyTravels)h says
I agree, I love wandering around markets – it shows such a personal side of the city, what people are really buying and what amazing food there often is as well as the flea markets you find. It’s almost always a good spot to snack too, which is great. An incredible variety here! Thanks for linking up with #citytripping
Ruth says
Hi Cathy, I love how you described markets. I like the thought of them presenting a personal side of the city. It is good to think about them on those terms.
Stephanie (@Vaycarious.com) says
Your beautiful pics are making me hungry, Ruth. 🙂 What did you eat at the market?
Ruth says
I had a doner kebab and baklava. The second time I stopped by, I had a wiener schnitzel and my husband had seafood pasta.
Anna says
I always love a good stroll + pig out session at a local market! I would be allll over the pastries, cheeses, and Middle Eastern appetizers at this market!
Ruth says
Believe me, I had to restrain myself a bit because I felt like eating everything.
Nell (the Pigeon Pair and Me) says
Wow – all those colours, textures and smells. I would LOVE this place! The close-up shots of the food are amazing, especially the mushrooms. x
Ruth says
Thanks a lot. I like to get close-ups because fruits and vegetables are so pretty (at lest for me). In this case, they were shiny and vibrant. I couldn’t resist that.
Nell (the Pigeon Pair and Me) says
Wow – all those colours, textures and smells. I would LOVE this place. Gorgeous close-ups, especially of the mushooms. #FarawayFiles
Katy says
Naschmarkt looks like a proper working market Ruth and I really love those. Here in London I would say with the exception of the wholesale markets the produce markets are “foodie” markets selling mainly pre prepared foods. I really appreciate produce markets as you really find the heart of a community and can talk to the vendors about where your food has come from. Thanks for sharing this brilliant find with us on #FarawayFiles
Ruth says
Here in Los Angeles we have both. We call Farmer’s Market the ones where a lot of produce are sold (but they have some pre-prepared and made on the spot food) and food halls to the ones that consist mainly of restaurants. I like both but, to me, European markets are different in many ways (in good ways).
Mandy says
Sounds like a worthwhile visit. I think I would have preferred the morning visit; my husband and I went to the market in Versailles France and we had so much fun talking with the vendors there. They were so nice! 🙂
I like all of the variety found at this market. It looks like you could find nearly anything you were looking for!
Ruth says
That is a good tip. I didn’t know there is a market in Versailles. I am glad you had a good time there.
Vlad says
Looks so awesome! We love buying condiments from wherever we go so I should check out this market next time I’m in Vienna. Sadly, I didn’t know about it until now. #citytripping
Ruth says
Glad you learned about it in here. Hope you make it there in the future.
Rachel Heller says
Your photos of the produce at the Naschmarkt are absolutely gorgeous!
Ruth says
Thanks Rachel!
Jonny (daisythebus) says
Wonderful. I’ve been to Vienna several times and I had no idea this market existed. I, too, love the sights, smells and sounds of a market, particularly in a foreign country, and I totally agree with your thoughts on “human interaction”; it’s what travel is all about.
Thanks for a great post, and greetings from Luxembourg. #farawayfiles
Ruth says
Well, I am sure you will like to visit next time. I think it is a great place to visit with kids.
Elizabeth (Wander Mum) says
I’d definitely like to wander around this market. So vibrant and colourful – which you have captured in your photos. From your description I can almost smell the scents and spices. What a brilliant find. #citytripping
Ruth says
Great you got the experience from the photos and descriptions. That is how I like to find out about a place.
Elaine J Masters says
Looks like a true marketplace. I’m with you and would love to visit during the day and again at night. Love your photo style.
Ruth says
Thanks Elaine! It is great to be able to visit a place twice (or more). I know time is limited a lot of times but there are places that capture our hearts.
Corey with fifi + hop says
I love markets too, for all the reasons you described. This one looks particularly vibrant. Such colorful and inviting photos! #farawayfiles
Ruth says
Thanks Corey! I am glad you enjoyed this particular market.
Anda says
These outdoor markets are one of the many things I miss about Europe. We have some of these here in Los Angeles, but they are not even close to what you can find there. Besides, they are outrageously expensive. I’ve been in Vienna only once and didn’t see Naschmarkt, but from what you are describing it’s very similar to the Viktualienmarkt in Munich. #TheWeeklyPostcard
Ruth says
I am with you Anda. We have some great markets in Los Angeles but they do not feel anything like the European markets. Also agree on the your comment about the prices. Thanks for your insight knowledge on the market in Munich.
Corinne says
Omigosh Ruth! Did you have to roll out of that market? I would have. Everything looks so yummy and amazing. I love it. Happy Holidays!
Ruth says
I had to force myself out because I wanted to stay but we had lots to see during the day. I felt great sitting in one of the food stalls and people watching.
budget jan says
Wow, what a place. I would love to immerse myself in the international food section with the sushi and kimchi, try the vegetables stuffed with cheese and a few of the dips like hommus with chilli.
Ruth says
I wished I had the stomach to eat all that. I got stuffed pretty fast!
Jessica says
Nice to read about another market from your perspective – Vienna is a place I’d love to visit in 2017. We love to wander around markets as well although we don’t tend to buy very much, but it is a great place to find some unique things.
Ruth says
I hope your dreams of visiting Vienna in 2017 come true. I am not that into shopping but enjoy markets. I see them as a way to connect to the culture.
Clare (Suitcases and Sandcastles) says
Great photos, Ruth. I love this sort of market – the spices remind me of the spice souks in Marrakesh and you’re so right about the pleasures of wandering around local markets when you’re visiting a new place. It’s great that you’ve discovered another sight to see when visiting Vienna. Thanks for sharing with us on #FarawayFiles
Ruth says
I would love, love to visit the souks in Morocco. That would be a dream. I have been to markets in Egypt and they were great.
Chantal says
I absolutely love strolling through markets and trying all sorts of different foods and spices. My favourite market so far is the Pike Place Market in Seattle but this one looks very promising as well. I’ll definitely check it out when I visit Vienna!
Ruth says
Oh! I have heard great things about the Pike Place Market. That is one place that is on my “to visit” list.
Monica @We Travel Together says
We’re a sucker for markets. We’ve actually been to Vienna, but the weather was terrible at that time of the year so we’ll revisit the city later and then we will definitively check out this market. So many beautiful and colourful pictures! Thanks for sharing 🙂
Ruth says
Yes, I know Vienna get very cold and great. We were lucky since the weather was gorgeous when we visited.
jill says
Love your colorful photos! What a cool market – I bet you’re glad you found it!
Ruth says
I am glad indeed!
Michele {Malaysian Meanders} says
My mouth is watering looking at all this deliciousness. Whenever I find a market like this, I hope that I am in an apartment or someplace with a little kitchen. I’m guessing that Naschmarkt is more for locals than tourists. Do you think it’s complete enough that they can buy all their groceries here?
Ruth says
Michelle, I think you can find all your groceries there. The variety is just stunning. Plus, plan to get all sorts of things gourmet. This market has it all.
Trekking with Becky says
I was just telling my ESL students why going to markets when travelling is important and how they reveal so much about the people and the culture. Your market photos are always fantastic! 😀
Ruth says
That is great Becky. I encourage everybody to visit markets. They are the real deal.
Nancie says
Hi, Ruth! What a fantastic find! As you well know, I am a market lover, too. I would have spent hours at the spice stall. I would have left loaded down with a lot of those little bags. Thanks for co-hosting this week. #TPThursday
Ruth says
I believe you Nancie. There was so much stuff I have never seen before. Loved reading all the names.
Erin Gustafson @oregongirlaroundtheworld says
I also love visiting a local market to see what is on offer. Something about seeing it all out in the open in one place really gives you a sense of the culture, what they eat and what is available to them. This is beautifully captured. Thank you for sharing with #FarawayFiles, Erin
Ruth says
Glad you liked it Erin. Hands down, this is one of the best markets I have visited. I went to a market in Pennsylvania on Tuesday and they had a picture of this market in Vienna.
Agness says
I’m such a foodie, you know that so I would love to visit this market. So many great fruits and veggies!! 🙂 I’m in love with Vienna already, although I haven’t made it there.
Ruth says
If you are in Vienna and happen to love food, this is the place to visit. You will be amazed at the food displays there.
Dhaval Parmar says
So much delicious things to pick from
Thanks for amazing Post.
Isabelle says
Vienna is such a vibrant city, it is amazing and so colorful! I simply must visit this market! Cannot wait to eat the blueberries 🙂