Stephansplatz

One of the most important squares in the city center of Vienna is Stephansplatz. Not only does this mark the official "kilometer zero" of the Austrian Capital but it has a place in the hearts and history of the people of the city that is not forgotten and always apparent.

Most important for visitors to the city it is a central stopping point on the U-Bahn both for changing lines and also for accessing so much of the city that is within walking distance.

History

Originally only half the size the square was expanded when a row of houses separating it from Stock-im-Eisen-Platz, today the two areas are considered one.

Outside the original city walls the platz became part of the city in around 1200 but it wasn't until 1978 with the opening of the U-Bahn station that the square became central to the city.

Getting there

Stephansplatz is in easy walking distance from the Naschmarkt, at a little over 1km it will take less than 20 minutes to walk and the route is an interesting one past many of the important buildings of the city.  First walk to the northen end of Naschmarkt beside Karlsplatz. Go to the right of the Novomatic Forum and take the pedestrian crossing into the Karlsplatz itself. Stay on the right side of the road, not so at the end of Karlsplatz it is simple to cross once, then turn left and cross again and again onto Opernpassage. Keep walking staright ahead and pass the Opera, Dorotheum, Hotel Astoria and continue on Karntne Strasse. Simply continue on this same road until it meets Stephansplatz, the spire of the Cathedral above you tells you when you have arrived.

Sights

As well as the square itself of course the main reason people come to the Stephansplatz is the St Stephan's Cathedral itself, this massive gothic.  Also don't miss out on the Diözesanmuseum which is the Cathedral Museum of the Archdiocese of Vienna, and also overlooking the square is the Kaffeemuseum Wien which tells the story of how Coffee became such as integral part of Vienna.

Shopping

The Kärntnerstrasse which was on the route from Naschmarkt to Stephansplatz is itself one of the main shopping roads of the city, but also leading out of the square are the important Graben which is the most upmarket street in the city. And beyond that it leads to the Kohlmarkt where all major brands both international and local can be found. Read more about Kohlmarkt.

Staying

Of course the ultimate in staying near here is to stay overlooking the Cathedral itself by taking a room at Hotel am Stephansplatz, a modern business hotel in a traditional building in this perfect location it offers luxurious rooms with grand views from the upper floors. Well heated rooms keep you warm in the winter, while shower and bath in the room as well as a fitness center and small sauna in the building make for a luxurious stay.

Alternatively the DO & CO Hotel also in the square itself is a modern 43 room hotel in a piece of stunning modern architecture that contrasts and complements the historic buildings around it.

Christmas at Stephansplatz

When winter descends upon Vienna, Stephansplatz transforms into one of the city's most enchanting Christmas destinations. The annual Weihnachtsdorf Stephansplatz (Christmas Village) runs from November 8 to December 26, 2025, set directly before the magnificent Gothic spires of St. Stephen's Cathedral. With the illuminated façade of the Stephansdom as its backdrop, this market captures the very essence of a traditional Viennese Christmas.

Over forty wooden stalls offer an array of handcrafted treasures: delicate glass ornaments, artisanal candles, hand-knitted woollens, and intricate wooden carvings—each piece a testament to Austrian craftsmanship. The air fills with the warming aromas of Glühwein (mulled wine), roasted chestnuts, and freshly baked Lebkuchen (gingerbread). Locals and visitors alike gather beneath strings of twinkling lights, cups in hand, as the cathedral bells mark the passing hours.

Just steps away, the Graben boulevard sparkles with over 250,000 LED lights arranged as giant chandeliers—a dazzling canopy that draws photographers from around the world. Continue along Kärntner Straße to experience 550,000 LEDs creating crystalline chains of light that lead toward the Opera House. Together, these illuminated streets form Vienna's most spectacular Christmas light display, transforming the entire First District into a winter wonderland.

For those seeking the sacred side of the season, St. Stephen's Cathedral hosts Advent concerts throughout December, filling the ancient nave with choral music and organ recitals. The cathedral remains open for visitors Monday through Saturday from 9:00 to 11:30 and 13:00 to 16:30, and on Sundays from 13:00 to 16:30. Climbing the South Tower (Steffl) offers breathtaking views over the Christmas market and glittering city below—available daily from 9:00 to 17:30.

Contact Details

St. Stephen's Cathedral: Stephansplatz 3, 1010 Vienna | Tel: +43 1 51552-3054 | www.stephanskirche.at

Hotel am Stephansplatz: Stephansplatz 9, 1010 Vienna | Tel: +43 1 53405-0 | welcome@hotelamstephansplatz.at | www.hotelamstephansplatz.at

DO & CO Hotel Vienna: Stephansplatz 12, Haas Haus, 1010 Vienna | Tel: +43 1 24188 | hotel@doco.com | www.docohotel.com

Vienna Tourist Info: Tel: +43 1 24555 | info@wien.info | www.wien.info