Rathausplatz, Vienna Woods Travel Guide

4.7 (39293)

A historic Viennese square that comes alive with year-round events, from festive markets to film screenings, all set against the backdrop of City Hall.

Rathausplatz, located in front of Vienna's City Hall (Rathaus), is a large square that hosts a variety of events throughout the year, from the Christmas Market to the Film Festival. Originally a military training ground, it has evolved into a central gathering place for locals and tourists alike.

A brief summary to Rathausplatz

Rathauspl., Vienna, Innere Stadt, 1010, AT
Click to display
Click to display

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Rathausplatz.

Check the event calendar before visiting to see if there's a festival or market happening during your trip.
Visit during the Christmas season to experience the magical Christkindlmarkt.
Take a stroll through the Rathauspark, the park surrounding the square, for a relaxing break.
Attend the Rathaus Film Festival in the summer for free open-air music and film screenings.

Do you manage this location?

Take control to get all the benefits, like improved information, better appearance, and stronger visibility across AI-powered discovery. Learn more about listing your business on Evendo

Activate your presence

Other nearby places you may find interesting

The closest places of the same kind, if this one is not quite what you had in mind.

Column of Pest

Castle Liechtenstein

Hofburg

Haus des Meeres

Naturpark Föhrenberge

Explore Rathausplatz on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Rathausplatz, mapped for you.

Getting There

Public Transport

Rathausplatz is easily accessible via Vienna's efficient public transport system. Take the U2 line to the Rathaus station. Several tram lines (1, D, 71) also stop directly at Rathausplatz or nearby. A single ticket costs €2.40. Day passes are also available for €5.80, offering unlimited travel until 1 am the next day.
Walking

If you are already in the Innere Stadt (1st district), walking to Rathausplatz is a pleasant option. From Stephansplatz, walk along Graben and Kohlmarkt towards the Hofburg Palace, then continue along the Ringstrasse to Rathausplatz. The walk is approximately 20 minutes. Landmarks like the Volksgarten and Burgtheater will be along the way.
Taxi

Taxis are readily available throughout Vienna. A short taxi ride from the city center (e.g., Stephansplatz) to Rathausplatz will cost approximately €10-€20, depending on traffic. Taxi базовый fare is around €3.80, plus per kilometer charges. Ride-sharing services like Uber are also available.
Parking

Parking near Rathausplatz can be challenging and expensive. The BOE Garage Rathauspark and the underground car park Rathausquartier are two options, but they can fill up quickly, especially during events. Hourly rates range from €3-€4.50, with daily maximums between €17-€45. Consider using public transport instead.

Discover more about Rathausplatz

Rathausplatz, situated in Vienna's Innere Stadt (1st district), is a vibrant square in front of the impressive Rathaus (City Hall). This large open space has a rich history, initially serving as part of the Josefstädter Glacis, an open area for military defense. In the 19th century, it was used as a parade and drill ground for the imperial army before being transformed into the urban space it is today.The square is bordered by the Rathauspark, a park divided into two sections, and the Ringstrasse, a grand boulevard encircling the city center. The Rathauspark features monuments and green spaces, providing a pleasant contrast to the urban environment. The square itself is meticulously maintained and provides a picturesque setting with the stunning Rathaus building as a backdrop.Rathausplatz is renowned for hosting numerous events throughout the year. The most famous is the Christkindlmarkt, Vienna's Christmas Market, which attracts visitors from all over the world. In winter, the square also transforms into the Vienna Ice World, a large ice rink. During the summer months, the Rathaus Film Festival takes place, offering free screenings of operas, classical concerts, and other musical performances. Other events include the Steiermark Frühling, a festival celebrating the province of Styria, and Game City, a gaming festival.The square is easily accessible by public transport, making it a convenient destination for visitors. Its central location and historical significance make it a must-see attraction in Vienna. Whether you're visiting for a specific event or simply to admire the architecture and soak in the atmosphere, Rathausplatz offers a memorable experience.