Freyung Vienna: Historic Square, Palaces & Markets

The Freyung is one of Vienna's most historic squares, right in the 1st district (Innere Stadt) and just a few steps from the Hofburg, the former imperial palace. Its name goes back to the right of asylum held in the Middle Ages by the Schottenstift, the Scottish Abbey located here ('frey', meaning free of secular jurisdiction). For centuries the Freyung has been an urban meeting place with a lively history of markets and architecture. The square is lined with magnificent buildings such as Palais Harrach, Palais Ferstel and the Schottenstift, which is still an active monastery today. Typical of the square is its atmospheric mix of Baroque grandeur and city life, which makes it popular with locals and tourists alike.

Today the Freyung is best known for its antiques market and for seasonal events such as the Easter market and the atmospheric Altwiener Christkindlmarkt (Old Viennese Christmas market). A detour to Café Central in Palais Ferstel, a historic Viennese coffee house with imperial flair, is especially worthwhile. The square also has plenty to offer culturally: the nearby Vienna Bank Museum and the gallery in Palais Harrach are well worth a visit. If you look closely, you will spot markers set into the pavement that point to the square's history, such as its medieval water supply. History, food and urban flair come together on the Freyung in a unique way, making the square a varied experience away from the tourist mainstream.

Highlights

- Palais Ferstel and Café Central
- Schottenstift abbey with the Schottenkirche (Scottish Church)
- Traditional Altwiener Christkindlmarkt (Christmas market)

accessible
kid-friendly
Dogs allowed
Food and drink nearby
central location

Address: Freyung, 1010 Vienna
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Especially worth seeing are Palais Ferstel with Café Central, the Schottenkirche (Scottish Church) and the Schottenstift abbey, and the seasonal markets, such as the Altwiener Christkindlmarkt (Old Viennese Christmas market).

The square itself is freely accessible. Visiting the Schottenstift is also free, but some cultural venues, such as exhibitions in Palais Harrach, may charge admission.

The easiest way is the U3 (Herrengasse station) or on foot from the Hofburg or St. Stephen's Cathedral. Several tram lines also stop nearby (e.g. at Schottentor).

A visit on Saturday morning is especially rewarding, when a fine organic farmers' market offers great regional specialties. A look into the Freyung Passage in Palais Ferstel is also worthwhile.

For a relaxed stroll with a café stop and a browse around the market, allow about 1–2 hours. Taking photos outdoors is no problem; in museums or buildings, please follow the signs.

No additional photos available.