best places to visit in vienna in december

Vienna in December: 35 Magical Things to Do in Winter (2024)

Vienna, Austria is a wonderful city to visit in December, with all its rich history, diverse mix of architecture, beautiful baroque palaces, gothic cathedrals, oh so many museums and art that you can take in, traditional and modern cafes, and don’t forget the Viennese Christmas markets! One of the more affordable cities in Europe, Vienna in December is worth visiting, though we love this city all year round.

We spent the month of December in Vienna celebrating Christmas with family, and taking in as much of the grand splendor of this city as we could. In this post, we’ll cover all the best things to do in Vienna in December from museums to Christmas concerts, what to expect from the weather in Vienna in December, and a few travel tips to make the most of your trip to the city of Vienna in the winter, including when stores are closed and how to buy a Christmas tree in Vienna.

As the temperatures begin to drop, Vienna comes to life with holiday decorations, lights, and Christmas markets, with its wonderful traditional food and drink, that is literally designed to warm you up on a cold day.

Every year, Popp & Kretschmer, the famous department store, puts up its red holiday bow, the largest in the world and it has become a symbol of the start of the Christmas season in Vienna. Across the street from the Vienna State Opera House and the Hotel Sacher (home of the original Sacher Torte), this is the perfect place to begin your visit to Vienna in December.

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Best Tour in Vienna in Winter Short on Time? Book our Top Pick: Classical Concert at St. Peters Church

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Weather in Vienna in December

The weather in Vienna in December is cold with possible rain or snow. Early December ranges on average from highs of 43°F to lows of 34°F (6°C to 1°C). Later in the month, the temperatures drop on average to highs of 35°F to lows of 28°F (2°C to -2°C). Snow flurries are not uncommon, but you won’t typically see much accumulation.

We found that while we were excited to wake up to a dusting of snow on the ground a few times, but never saw much snow really stick. Most of December in Vienna was cold, sometimes gray, and even rainy.

Make sure to pack layers, and be ready to mix up your indoor and outdoor activities to give yourself time to warm up. While I generally don’t love cold destinations, I think the magical city of Vienna is worth visiting .

If you’re anxious to see snow while in Austria, take a day trip to Salzburg , where you’ll have beautiful views of the Alps, which are sure to be snow-coated in December.

Quick Guide: The Best Tours in Vienna in December

Classical Concert at St. Peters Church

1 Hour Concert Beautiful Stone Church

Christmas Market Tour of Vienna

Includes 4 Christmas Markets, Snacks, and Drinks

Pastry and Dessert Tour of Vienna

Includes Pastries, Chocolates, and other Sweet Treats

35 Things to Do in Vienna in December

1. browse the vienna christmas markets.

The Christmas Markets of Vienna (Weihnachtsmärkte, or Christkindlmärkte) are great places to get into the holiday spirit- you’ll find local arts and crafts, can hunt for gifts and souvenirs, all while trying some traditional Austrian cuisine and drink. Grab a mug of hot mulled wine, called Glühwein, and warm up with friends after a day of sightseeing.

There are lots of markets that pop up all over the city, some are big and others just a few stalls. Some have a stronger focus, either on food or local artisans, while others are more generic souvenir souvenir-oriented. With so many, it can be hard to choose- we wrote a full list of our favorite Vienna Christmas Markets to help you prioritize your time, along with which Christmas market food to look for!

Vienna Christmas markets open around mid-November and close on December 23rd. A few will convert into New Year’s Markets and stay open until January 1st, but plan to explore most of these markets before Christmas Eve.

2. Learn About Austrian Christmas Traditions

Take a Christmas market tour and learn all about Austrian Christmas traditions. On this 3-hour tour, you’ll visit 4 different Viennese Christmas markets, and sample local specialties. Drinks and snacks are included in the tour, so you’re sure to find a new favorite!

“We were able to see some of the markets that were more intimate with organic food and drinks from local merchants. Also were given information about the city’s history and current day-to-day practices. A great way to start our vacation!” – ingrid_S ( read more reviews )

This is a group tour, limited to 20 or fewer people. If you prefer a private tour, this tour is highly recommended.

Book Now: Christmas Market Walking Tour

3. Listen to a Classical Music Concert at St. Peter’s Church

St. Peters’s decorated for Christmas is just stunning. A concert here during the holiday season is a must-do! This is a small church, so there are only a few seats for each performance. Lasting just over an hour, the music varies by evening, but you’ll listen to a selection of classical works from such greats as Mozart, Vivaldi, Schubert, and Beethoven.

This old stone church can get cold- the musicians had space heaters, but we found ourselves wearing our coats and gloves for the concert on a cold night. Come prepared for the chill!

“Beautiful setting in the old church, and the string quartet played beautifully and without flaw. One of these concerts is a must do in Vienna.” – alastar_m ( read more reviews )

It is an intimate space, so there are no bad seats, but the front few rows can really see the musicians. Concerts start at 8:30 each evening. Arrive when the doors open to get seats at the front of your section. Check the schedule, as there are no concerts on Thursdays, and only on some Mondays as well.

We chose not to bring our kids to this concert due to the start time (and we had grandparents in town to watch them), but kids are certainly welcome, and there were kids in the audience.

Book Now: Classical Music Concert at St. Peter’s Church

4. Ice Skating at the Rathausplatz

There are three places to ice skate at the Rathausplatz in Vienna. The first opens around the middle of November and is about 3,000 sq meters. This is a really fun place to ice skate, as it has one-way paths that wind through the woods and then open up into larger free-skate areas.

Around the rink, you will find several food stands, places to sit, and lockers to store your things. Adult admission to this rink is around €8.50 and adult skate rentals are about 8€. Kids rentals are 5€. This rink is open from 10:00 to 22:00.

The second area is a separate kid’s ice rink, where children can learn to skate and there are penguin and dolphin skating aids available to use. There is no fee to skate, and skate rentals are €5.00 for kids (which includes a helmet). This rink is open from 10:00 to 21:30.

Our kids loved this one and it helped them to gain the confidence to try the other skating area. There are signs saying not to go onto the ice while wearing shoes, but many parents (us included!) were out there in shoes to help the kids get the hang of it and no one seemed to mind.

The third ice rink is called the “Viennese Ice Dream”, it’s a larger ice arena that does not open until mid-January, but if you are around in the new year, this 8500 sq meter rink is worth checking out. It is set right in front of the Rathaus, with stages, food booths, and places to sit, stand, or eat around it. This is a great place to meet friends or come and enjoy the winter festivities. This rink stays open until early March.

5. Visit the Spanish Riding School

The Spanish Riding School is a famous Austrian institution dedicated to the training and performance of Lipizzaner horses, Europe’s oldest horse breed. These white horses are trained from birth for specific maneuvers including jumps and leaps, called caprioles, and levade.

The Lipizzaners perform at the “Ballet of the White Stallions” in the Winter Riding School of the Hofburg Palace. You can watch a 70-minute performance , or attend a morning training exercise in the ornate hall. It’s a beautiful location that makes for a unique experience.

“It was incredible. Horses and riders showed off their skills and dedication throughout the performance. It’s clear the amount of work required to get to this level. What a pleasure.” – elizabeth ( read more reviews )

Please note that many of the tickets are for standing room. Make sure to book “seats” rather than “standing area” as seats are limited. Book well in advance as they sell out quickly. Make sure to arrive at least 45 minutes before the performance. Children must be at least 3 years old for both the performance and the Riding School tour.

Book Now: Lipizzaner Performance at the Spanish Riding School

You can also take a one-hour tour of the Spanish Riding School to learn more about its traditions which have endured for more than 450 years. You’ll be able to see the horses up close (you cannot touch them) and learn more about the care and training of these animals.

6. Stroll Kärntner Straße and Graben for Lights

Karnter Strasse and Graben are the main pedestrian streets running through Central Vienna. Here you’ll find all sorts of shops, stores, and cafes, including many name brands. This is a great place to stroll and take in the Christmas lights and the holiday window displays.

You are sure to notice the Plague Column (Pestsäule), It’s super ornate, and sure to catch your eye. It was erected to celebrate the end of the Great Plague epidemic in 1679. The column is right in the center of the most famous shopping street in the city – Graben.

You’ll also find a few stalls set up in the middle of these streets selling Glühwein, often to benefit a specific group or charity. If you’re around for New Year’s Eve, make sure to come back here to participate in Vienna’s famous group Waltz!

7. Attend a Performance of The Nutcracker

We really enjoyed taking our girls to a performance of Nutcracker ballet at the Wiener Stadthalle to celebrate the holiday season. For 2024, there is a single performance as part of the International Festival Ballet in mid-January.

The Vienna State Opera House also sometimes includes this holiday classic (called Der Nussknacker in German) in their performance schedule which would be an amazing place to see it.

The Wiener Stadthalle hosts visiting companies, while the Vienna State Ballet performs at the Vienna State Opera House and Vienna Volksoper, check all three for current performance schedules. Wiener Stadthalle , Roland-Rainer-Platz 1, 1150 Wien, Austria. Vienna State Opera House , Opernring 2, 1010 Wien, Austria Volksoper Wein, Währinger Strasse 78, 1090 Wien, Austria

8. Take a Pastry and Dessert Food Tour

This 3 1/2 hour tour explores Vienna’s famous cafe culture- taking you to some of the best Viennese bakeries, pastry shops, and chocolatiers in the city. Your third stop will be a savory one (schnitzel or dumplings)- so you can continue on for more dessert tastings!

“Simply the BEST tour we did in Vienna. Incredible food while learning about life in Vienna. Each stop brought us to parts of the city we would have never thought to visit. Such an amazing and thoughtful host/guide!” – shawn_F ( read more reviews )

This is a small group tour with ten or fewer travelers. This tour gets solid 5-star reviews, it does involve a lot of walking, though you may take public transportation between areas of town.

Book Now: Vienna Pastry and Dessert Food Tour

9. Watch an Opera

We highly recommend seeing an opera in Vienna if you have the chance, and the Vienna State Opera House is not to be missed. It opened in 1869 and was inaugurated as the “Vienna Court Opera” in the presence of Emperor Franz Joseph I and Empress Elisabeth of Austria.

The 1,709-seat Renaissance Revival venue was the first major building on the Vienna Ringstrasse. Its current name was adopted after the establishment of the First Austrian Republic in 1921.

Today, enjoy the Opera under the current artistic direction of Philippe Jordan (2020–present) and check out the current calendar of events .

10. Visit St. Stephen’s Church

Called the Stephansdom, this cathedral is the seat of the Holy Roman Archdiocese in Vienna and a symbol of Austria. Many famous figures from Vienna are buried here, from Hapsburg emperors to cardinals and archbishops.

St. Stephans is free to enter, but there is a fee for the catacombs, and to visit either the north or south towers. At 136 meters high, the south tower is the highest tower. You can reach the top by climbing 343 steps, for wonderful views out over the city. The north tower, by contrast, can only be reached by elevator. Called the “Eagles Tower” it was never completed. Here you will find 23 bells including the Pummerin Bell, the largest church bell in Austria.

Located in the middle of the city, St. Stephans is a central meeting point and landmark in the city center. You’ll find a lovely Christmas market in front of the cathedral in November and December, and concerts held inside throughout the year. In fact, Vivaldi’s “The Four Seasons” is performed in the cathedral each Saturday from the end of May to October.

11. Warm up in a Cafe

Vienna is known for its cafe culture- and winter in Vienna is the perfect time to embrace this side of the city! Try the Viennese coffee specialty called a melange- similar to a cappuccino.

Some of our favorite cafes in Vienna for coffee, pastries, and hot chocolate for the kids include:

Coffee and Friends, Landstraßer Hauptstraße 146/12 Boutique Cafe Annabelle, Herrengasse 5 Gustav Emil Paula Paula, Babenbergerstraßse 7

Also, duck into Ferstel Passage (close to Central Cafe) to get out of the weather and explore some lovely shops, including quite a few cafes.

12. Attend an Opera in the Crypt

This odd venue is the perfect place to introduce children to the Opera! Located in the crypt under St. Peters Church, along with longer pieces for adults, these operettas are short versions designed for kids from ages 3 to 10.

The intimate venue means the kids are up close to the costumed performers. A 45-minute version of The Magic Flute is a favorite that is performed quite regularly. Check the schedule for both adult and children’s programming.

13. Learn to Make Classic Viennese Food

During this 3-hour cooking class , you’ll learn to cook a 3-course traditional lunch including schnitzel and strudel, before enjoying your creations alongside this local chef.

“We were warmly greeted into his home for an evening of learning, cooking, and laughing. I now can make schnitzel as well as an Austrian and for that I am thankful. Nabiel is very knowledgeable about Vienna, culture, cuisine, and history.” – william_W ( read more reviews )

This is a private tour, you’ll cook in the chef’s private kitchen. Drinks are included, and travelers rave about this class!

Book Now: Viennese Classics Cooking Class

14. Learn about Empress Elizabeth at the Sisi Museum

As you explore Vienna, you’ll see lots of references to Empress Elizabeth, also called Empress Sisi. This beloved figure is everywhere in Vienna. The Sisi Museum is a joint ticket with the Kaiser Apartments and the Silver Museum. One ticket allows you to view all three, and you’ll follow a single-direction path through them.

There are no photos allowed inside the Sisi Museum, but you’ll learn about the famous empress, see some of her dresses, and learn about her habits and routines, including how long it took to wash her hair! You’ll learn about her life and untimely death, and why this eccentric character has captured the heart of Vienna. You’ll also see her room in the Kaiser apartments including her exercise equipment.

15. Take a Walking Tour of Vienna

A walking tour of Vienna is a great way to either understand the Old Town if you are a first-time visitor, or dig into the history of this complex city. For first-time visitors, we recommend a classic old-town walking tour .

For those who are already familiar with Vienna, you can choose between a World War II and Hitler-themed history walking tou r, or perhaps a food, coffee, and market tour . Whatever your preference, we’ve narrowed down the best walking tours in Vienna.

16. Oogle at Treasures at the Imperial Treasury

The Imperial Treasury of Vienna is located in the Hofburg Palace. It has both a secular section and an ecclesiastical section. This is where you’ll find Vienna’s answer to the “crown jewels” including the stunning Imperial Crown of the Holy Roman Empire. This crown is made of gold, enamel, pearls, and precious stones. It was used for centuries at the coronation of kings and emperors of the Holy Roman Empire.

You’ll also see a baby cradle gifted to Napoleon, and an agate bowl that was rumored to be the holy grail. Called the Kaiserliche Schatzkammer Wien, admission to the treasury is 19€ for adults, and children under 19 are free.

17. See Masterworks at the Belvedere Palace Museum

The Belvedere Museum has two main sections, connected by a garden. The Upper Belvedere houses the permanent collection of artwork, including the world-famous piece “The Kiss” by Gustav Klimt, among many of his other works. The Lower Belvedere has temporary exhibitions, the orangery, and the stables. Belvedere 21 is in another location and has modern and contemporary art, music, and film.

Completed in 1723, the Belvedere Palace was originally the summer residence of Prince Eugene of Savoy, one of Vienna’s most famous generals. The Upper Belvedere was the first public museum in the world, opening to the public in 1781.

The Belvedere has a long and colorful history. The wedding of Marie Antoinette and the future King of France, Louis XVI was held here, including a ball which was thrown in their honor, and included a guestlist of 16,000 people. During a visit to the Upper Belvedere, you’ll also see the historic room where the Austrian State Treaty in 1955 was signed. This treaty gave Austria its independence for the first time since Anschluss in 1928.

Take a Tour of the Belvedere Museum

This 3-hour museum tour covers the fascinating history of the Belvedere Palace and gardens, as well as the highlights of the art collection including iconic works by Kilmt, Monet, Rodin, and Van Gogh. While you will spend time in the gardens, this is not exclusively a history tour, there is an emphasis on viewing the major artworks as well.

The tour was captivating! Annelie in-depth knowledge of not only art history but also details about people and political climate at the time, made Belvedere Palace came alive! Wonderful, expressive, storyteller! We had a great time and a memorable experience. Thank you!” – elinarutenberg ( read more reviews )

This tour is run by an art historian who will discuss history, architecture, and art. This is a very small group tour with a maximum of 6 people. Admission fees to the museum are not included in the tour price.

Book Now: Tour of the Belvedere Museum

18. Learn to Make Apple Strudel

Check out the Original Wiener Strudelshow , on the lower level of the Cafe Residenz at Schönbrunn Palace. This might sound a bit touristy and tacky, but we took the whole family (three generations), and everybody, ages 6-86, enjoyed it. The chefs here know how to entertain. They talk you through the steps of making apple strudel, from their original Viennese recipe.

Plus you get to enjoy a slice of apple strudel with a Wiener Melange (a specialty coffee drink similar to a cappuccino), tea, or hot chocolate while you watch, and take home the recipe if you want to try it on your own. This is a great activity for winter in Vienna- the warm drink and cinnamony pastry are fabulous on a cold day.

Walk through the gates of Schönbrunn and you will see the restaurant on your left in the building beyond the fountain. The restaurant is on the ground floor and the Strudelshow is downstairs in the cellar.

Tickets cost 15€. Shows run from Wednesday through Sunday and on public holidays, at 10 am, 11 am, 2 pm, and 3 pm. Make sure to reserve ahead of time as these shows sell out. Located at Kavalierstrasse 52, 1130 Vienna.

If this piques your interest, you can book a baking course , where you will learn, prepare, and bake your own apple strudel.

19. Tour the Magnificent Schönbrunn Palace

The Imperial Summer Palace for the Hapsburg Family, the Schönbrunn Palace is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Vienna’s most visited attraction. The huge grounds were originally purchased in 1569 by the Holy Roman Emperor Maximilian II who fenced it in and stocked it with game, to be used for hunting and recreation.

Just before the beginning of the 1700s, Emperor Leopold I commissioned the building of an imperial hunting lodge for his son, Crown Prince Joseph, later to become Emperor Joseph I.

Over the next hundred years, the building was expanded, growing into the Schloss Schönbrunn. Maria Theresa, Emperor Franz Joseph, and Empress Elisabeth all lived in this palace. When the Austrian monarchy ended in 1918, the palace became part of the new Austrian Republic, which made it a museum.

The Schönbrunn Palace complex includes an incredible amount to see and do- there is the palace itself, a zoo, a carriage museum, the Crown Prince Garden, the Orangery Garden, a Maze & Labyrinth, and more. Depending on what interests you, you should plan to spend the day here. It’s a bit out of the center of Vienna, so best to pack as much into one visit as possible.

The Schonbrunn Kindermuseum

The Schonbrunn Children’s Museum (Kindermuseum) is terrific- don’t miss this if you are visiting with kids! The entrance is on the far right of the main palace when you enter the main courtyard.

Located in the wing of the palace where the royal children actually lived, you’ll see gardens painted on the walls from when the royal children played there. Our kids loved this museum so much that we visited it twice! There are places to dress up and take photos, toys to play with, wigs to style, and more.

Also, in the winter, look for the Children’s Workshop Hut in the courtyard. They host activities for kids such as making marzipan snowmen or decorating gingerbread men. They get a lot of large school groups, so check in when you arrive to make a reservation. Activities cost about 5€ per child.

Touring Schönbrunn Palace

Today you can tour the Schonbrunn Palace rooms on your own (make sure to reserve a timed ticket in advance), or with a tour guide. We chose the Imperial Tour which comes with an audio guide and includes 27 highly decorated rooms. We found it was perfect for the attention span of our kids, and didn’t need to see more. You’ll visit the private apartments of Franz Joseph and Elizabeth, as well as rooms used for entertaining the court. No photos are allowed once you are inside the palace.

However, if you want to see as much of the palace as possible, you can choose the Grand Tour , which includes an additional 13 rooms, for a total of 40!

Plan to spend time at the Christmas Market in front of the palace, they have gift items you’ll only find here. There are also lots of food and drink stalls, it’s the most fun after the sun sets when all the Christmas lights are lighting up the palace.

Guided Tour of the Schönbrunn Palace and Gardens

This 2-hour guided tour includes both the gardens and the main palace of Schonbrunn. If you prefer listening to a live tour guide instead of plugging numbers into an audio guide, then this is the best option for you!

The tour guide will relate the palace to stories of Franz Joeseph and Empress Sisi to help bring the history of the Hapsburgs and Schonbrunn alive for you.

“One of the best tours I have experienced so far in Europe and the tour guide (Lisa) absolutely made the experience. She did not simply just throw facts in our faces but rather told a story and made what we were seeing come to life. She was relatable, funny, and well aware of what we were remembering and using funny quips to harken back to characters we might have forgotten.” – moshe_E ( read more reviews )

Book Now: Guided Tour of the Schönbrunn Palace and Gardens

20. Enjoy Kaiserschmarrn at Demel Cafe

One of the most famous cafes in Austria, Café Demel , is known for Kaiserschmarrn, a pancake-like treat, made with lots of butter and sugar and served up hot with stewed plumbs. This is a must when visiting Vienna in December. With lines usually out the door, while you wait you can watch through the window as they make their fabulous pancake treat right before your eyes.

You can eat in one of the cafe’s beautiful dining areas, or pick up a Kaiserschmarrn from a special to-go street window just for Kaiserschmarrn to eat as you walk.

We visited here twice- the first time we waited in line for an hour to get a seat inside, and have the Kaiserschmarrn hot and plated, as well as a delicious slice of truffle cake. We then returned another time to get Kaiserschmarrn to go (it’s served in a paper carton), and several slices of cake as well. Even if you get the Kaiserschmarrn to go, make sure to eat it right away, as it’s best when warm.

All of the cakes here are delicious- including Esterhazy (a striped Hungarian specialty). This is also one of the classic places to try the famous Viennese Sacher Torte, though we stuck with the original from the Sacher Hotel.

When you see a long line forming in front of Demel’s windows, you can enter to the side (on the right there’s a small sign indicating “shop”). This will take you down a hallway to the rear of the cafe where they have a shop. Here you can buy slices of cake, jam, and other goodies to go. Located at Kohlmarkt 14, 1010 Wien, Austria.

21. Tour the Vienna Opera House

The Vienna State Opera House, located at Opernring 2, 1010 Wien, Austria, is one of the worlds leading opera houses. First opened on May 25, 1869, when they performed Mozart’s Don Giovanni for Emporer Franz Joseph and Empress Elisabeth (Sisi). The Opera House’s popularity grew under its original artistic directors, with performances of works by Wagner, Mozart, and Strauss.

This 40-minute tour will take you behind the scenes, where you will learn about the history, architecture, and the opera business. As this is a fully functioning opera house with almost daily performances, there is always a lot going on as they prepare for the evening’s performance or change over the stage for a new opera.

You can only purchase tickets for the guided tour online, or in person half an hour before the tour begins (please note that tickets purchased onsite are only for remaining seats and may not be available if a tour is sold out).

We all loved this tour- there are parts of it to entertain both kids and adults. We got to sit in the opera seats and watch the team both rehearsing and loading in new sets. They also have a fun video where you can learn about the famous Opera Ball that happens each spring.

22. Eat at the Historic Central Cafe

Established in 1876, this beautiful coffee house was a favorite haunt of many famous artists and intellectuals, including Trotsky and Freud. Located on the corner of Herrengasse and Strauchgasse, 1010 Wien, Central Cafe serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. It is best to make a reservation ahead of time as you will often find a line out the door.

We really enjoyed the Vegane Wiener Krautfleckerl, made of Viennese square noodles with white cabbage, braised bell pepper, and lettuce, as well as the Klare Rindsuppe, a Consommé of beef with sliced pancakes.

But make sure you save room for dessert! Sip Viennese coffee while you try one or more of their many famous in-house patisserie creations.

You can also take treats to go! Did you know that two of the things that France is most famous for, the croissant and the baguette – were actually created by a Viennese pastry chef named August Zang, in Paris around 1839? 

23. Explore the Kunsthistorisches Museum

The Kunsthistorisches Museum Vienna is the largest fine arts museum in the city, sometimes called the Fine Arts Museum of Vienna. The museum has an Egyptian collection, Greek and Roman collections, and a Picture Gallery based around the Hapsburg Collections, with a strong emphasis on 16 th and 17th-century works.

The Picture Gallery includes the world’s largest collection of works by the Flemish master Pieter Bruegel, as well as works by Titian, Raphael, Caravaggio, Peter Paul Rubens, and Albrecht Dürer.

The Kunstkammer Wein, or “chamber of art” is a world-renowned collection that contains art objects from gold salt cellars to coins, to ivory carvings, to weapons. Think of it as all the royal treasures displayed in one place!

Every Sunday, a one-hour guided tour in English leaves from the entrance hall at 3 pm. The tour costs 6€ per person. A different gallery is highlighted each week, check the schedule to see each week’s theme.

Admission for adults is 21€, children under 19 enter free.

24. Albertina Museum

The Albertina Museum is located in a 17th-century palace and is particularly known for its collection of prints and drawings by Old Masters, with a huge number of prints from both Dürer and Klimt.

Their most famous painting is “Young Hare,” a 1504 watercolor by Albrecht Dürer. Because this painting is so fragile, it is only displayed during special exhibitions every few years. In the meantime, you can see a replica on display.

You’ll find 20 lavishly decorated state rooms to explore where the Hapsburgs used to live, as well as galleries filled with works from Monet and Degas, as well as Picasso and Chagall.

Ten minutes walk from the Albertina, you’ll find the Albertina Modern which opened in 2020. This museum’s collection includes more than 60,000 pieces of post-1945 art.

25. Mozart Haus

Located in the city center, just a few blocks from Stephansdom, you’ll find the Mozart Haus Vienna . This museum is dedicated to the life of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart while he lived in Vienna. You’ll start on the third floor and work your way down, learning about the Classical music scene in Vienna during Mozart’s lifetime. You’ll end on the first floor, where you’ll see the actual apartment that Mozart lived in from 1784-87, one of his most grand apartments, where he composed a lot of his music.

There is also a small concert venue here, check the schedule for performances. Tickets for the museum are 12€ for adults, and 4.50€ for children under 19. Closed Mondays.

26. Eat a Hearty Austrian Meal

The word Beisl is Austrian for bistro or tavern but originates from a word meaning house. This is where you go with friends or family for casual, down-to-earth, traditional, home-cooked food and drink. Some of the most common things on the menu are Würst – sausages, and Schnitzel (with or without noodles, think The Sound of Music), meat that has been pounded out, breaded, and fried.

But you will also find Frittatensuppe, a Viennese “pancake soup” a beef broth with salted strips of pancake, Gulasch, made from beef or veal, is a thick stew of meat and winter vegetables, served on a plate and eaten with bread or noodles, and Nüdel, house-made dumplings in various sizes and with different ingredients from semolina to spinach. You will also find our kids’ favorite dish, Käsespätzle, which is pressed dumplings or egg noodles, made by pushing dough through a strainer to make short odd-shaped pieces and usually served with caramelized onions on top. This is where mac and cheese came from.

There are many great traditional places to eat in Vienna, but here are our personal favorites:

Reinthaler’s Beisl

Dorotheergasse 2-4, 1010

Located just off Graben, the main pedestrian shopping area of Vienna, on Dorotheergasse, Beisl is a lovely, unassuming, traditional Viennese restaurant. There are no reservations here, just first come first serve, and there can be a long line when busy. We waited maybe twenty minutes the first time we visited for an early dinner. The next time we only waited about ten minutes, but they asked if it was okay if we were seated at a communal table. This is actually quite a normal thing and we were happy to share our table with another party. www.reinthalersbeisl.com

Weißgerber Stube

Landstraßer Hauptstraße 28, 1030 We ate here for lunch one day and enjoyed it so much that we came back for Christmas Eve Dinner. The food is excellent and the service is friendly and easygoing. But make sure you save room for dessert, their Apfelstrudel was one of our favorites. www.weissgerberstube.at

Riemergasse 10, 1010

We were not able to make it to Pürstner but it comes highly recommended. www.puerstner.com

27. Weltmuseum Wien

Part of one of the most impressive and highly photographed buildings in Vienna, the Weltmuseum is the “World Museum'” or Museum of Ethnology- it contains a collection of more than 400,000 ethnographical and archaeological objects from Asia, Africa, Oceania, and America.

While Austria was never a colonial power, the Hapsburgs benefited from the colonial and imperialistic behavior of other nations. This museum attempts to address some of the concerns around the collection and presents a dialogue along with many of the items displayed.

Upstairs from the permanent collection, and included in your ticket, you’ll find the Imperial Armory and the collection of Historical Musical Instruments. Tickets are 16€ for adults, children enter free. https://www.weltmuseumwien.at/en

28. Ride in a Traditional Horse and Carriage

You’ll see these old-fashioned horse-drawn carriages clacking around central Vienna. Called a fiaker , these vehicles are available for a short ride and guided tour. These fiakers are the original taxi, with the idea of organized transport brought over from Paris.

Leopold 1 issued the first official fiaker license in Vienna in 1693, ensuring that all carriage drivers were licensed and charged the same rates. By 1900, there were over 1,000 fiakers on the streets of Vienna.

Vienna has very strict animal welfare laws, so you can feel good about hiring a horse and carriage knowing the animals are well looked after. Each horse stable is inspected twice a year to make sure they are compliant with all regulations. Horses must be off the streets if temperatures reach 35C/95F.

These vehicles are beautiful- some are open air, while others are closed with gas lanterns lighting the way at night. It can get chilly, so dress warmly. They congregate in several places including Michaelsplatz outside the Hofburg Wein. Expect to pay around 40€ for a 15-minute carriage ride, or 120€ for an hour.

Visit the Stable with a Horse and Carriage Ride

This tour starts with a visit to the stable where you’ll learn about the horses used for fiaker rides, how they are cared for, and about the life of the carriage drivers as well. You’ll then take a ride on the fiaker past the Belvedere Palace, and be dropped off at the Hofburg Wein.

“ We thoroughly enjoyed taking the tour of the carriage horse stables and learning all about the lives of the horses and the carriage drivers. The stables could not have been more well kept and the horse were immaculate. Highly recommend.” – Suzanne_W ( Read more reviews )

The focus of this tour is really the stable, the ride in the carriage is not a guided tour but gives you a chance to enjoy the sites along the way.

Book Now: Stable Visit with a Horse and Carriage Ride

29. Enjoy a Sacher Torte

A Sacher Torte is two spongy layers of chocolate cake with a layer of apricot jam between them which is then covered in a dark chocolate glaze. This famous cake was originally created in 1832 by the pastry chef Franz Sacher when he was asked by Prince Klemens von Metternich to prepare a special dessert for his guests when the official court pastry chef was ill.

The Sacher Torte was an instant success and its popularity spread over Austria and beyond. The original recipe is trademarked, but that has not stopped bakers all over the world from copying it. But in Vienna, you can taste the original Sacher Torte at the Café Sacher Wein where you can try a slice, or take a piece or a whole cake home to share.

If you are a large group, you can get a full cake delivered to your hotel or apartment. The cake has a long shelf life since it’s covered in dark chocolate, so it makes a great Christmas dessert! Serve it with the traditional side of whipped cream.

Cafe Sacher Wein, Sacher Hotel, Philharmoniker Str. 4, 1010 Wien, Austria

30. Visit the Austrian National Library

The Grand Hall of the Austrian National Library is the largest Baroque library in Europe and houses over 200,000 books on its carved wooden shelves, newly restored as of 2023. The book themselves are treasures, as are the many large globes you’ll find in the hall, but the Grand Hall itself is what most people come to see.

Considered one of the most beautiful libraries in Europe, the incredible Grand Hall is almost 80 meters in length and 30 meters high, with a beautiful dome at the center. The recently restored frescos in the dome were created by the court painter, Daniel Gran and depict Emperor Charles VI “becoming a god”, who commissioned the construction of the Library in 1723.

Below the dome, you will also find a statue of the emperor standing at the center, along with 16 other statues of rulers and nobility of the Austro-Spanish Habsburg family throughout the hall.

We visited in early January 2023 just after the Grand Hall reopened while they were still finishing up some of the extensive restoration work. It was actually quite interesting to see what some of the restorers were doing, and how much work must go into cleaning each of the books!

Plan to spend up to an hour on your visit. Adults are 10€ and children under 19 are free. www.onb.ac.at

31. Eat a Mozart Chocolate (or Two)

The Mozartkugel, or Mozart Ball in English, is a round sugary treat made of pistachio, marzipan, and nougat and covered in dark chocolate. Originally known as the Mozart-Bonbon and created in 1890 by confectioner Paul Fürst in Salzburg Austria and named after Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart.

You can now find the Mozartkugel all over Austria, but if you have the time, take a day trip to Salzburg to taste the original! Hint: These chocolates make great stocking stuffers.

32. Ride the Prater Ferris Wheel

The giant Ferris Wheel at the Prater is a symbol of Vienna. It was opened in 1897 to mark the 50th year of Emperor Franz Joseph’s accession to the throne. From the closed-in boxcar-style seats, you get great views over Vienna.

Moving at only 2.7 km/hr, it is the oldest Ferris wheel of its type still in operation in the world. You don’t need a warm day to do this in the winter, but you’ll want a clear, sunny day to enjoy the views. A ride on the Wiener Riesenrad costs 13.50€ for adults, and €6.50 for kids.

33. Visit the Natural History Museum

The Museum of Natural History in Vienna is in an incredible building and has a modern and interactive first floor. Both the Museum of Natural History and the Museum of Fine Arts (Kunsthistorisches Museum Wien) were commissioned by Emperor Franz Joseph I and designed by the architects Gottfried Semper and Carl Hasenauer. The two museums are the same on the exterior and face one another.

The first floor of the museum is where you’ll want to focus your time. There are dinosaur bones- including some fun interactive elements and even a roaring animatronic dino. There are more traditional geology exhibits (think rows of labeled rocks), and an exhibit on space and the universe that is quite modern.

We were quite impressed with this museum until we headed to the second floor- here you’ll find only old-school taxidermied specimens filling room after room. We tried to find the silver lining here (stuffed dodo bird? shell collection?) but much preferred the first floor. Closed on Tuesdays. www.nhm-wien.ac.at/

34. Take a Day Trip Out of Town

Vienna makes a great base for taking day trips to other villages and cities nearby. The train system makes this easy and convenient.

We highly recommend taking a day trip to Salzburg (though we liked it there so much we could have stayed a few days), a day trip to the lakeside village of Hallstatt, a visit to the Slovak capital of Bratislava , or even a day trip to Budapest!

35. Celebrate New Year’s Eve in Vienna

New Year’s Eve is a lot of fun in Vienna. Everyone heads to the pedestrian streets of the Graben, and around the Stephansdom for live music, food, drink, and dancing! You can learn to dance the Viennese waltz on the Graben or if you’re feeling fancy, join the New Year’s Eve Ball at the Hofburg Vienna.

Every year, the Vienna Philharmonic performs a New Year’s Eve Concert. Even if you can’t get tickets, there are open-air broadcasts of the concert in front of City Hall and in front of the Vienna State Opera.

Pigs are a symbol of good luck going into the New Year. It is traditional to exchange pigs, either in the form of marzipan, or other treats. We enjoyed drinking Glühwein out of festive pig-shaped mugs and sharing a giant Sisi Krampfn while listening to all the live music.

Travel Tips for Vienna Austria in December

Here are a few tips for traveling to Vienna Austria in December, to make the most of this enchanting time of year.

Expect Crowds

December is a very popular time to visit Vienna due to its Christmas markets and festive concert schedule. Expect markets and streets to be crowded. When possible, get tickets or make reservations in advance.

Vienna is an incredibly safe city , but do watch for pickpockets when walking in large crowds. Use basic precautions, but feel free to walk through the city center both during the day and at night. We also don’t hesitate to take the tram at night.

Don’t Expect Snow

You may experience a “white Christmas” in Vienna, but it’s unlikely. A few dustings of snow are common during December, but the snow is unlikely to amount to much. Instead, you’ll have bitter cold, grey skies, and possibly rain. Bundle up and grab a mug of Glühwein to keep warm!

Getting a Christmas Tree

Vendors sell live, cut Christmas trees in most residential areas of Vienna. Trees are priced based on size. You’ll pay a few extra euros for a simple wooden stand to hold the tree up.

Most families do not decorate their trees until Christmas Eve, so these trees are not expected to live inside for long. There is no way to water the tree, other than a light spritz of water from a spray bottle.

Vienna’s Christmas markets are filled with vendors selling ornaments from inexpensive wooden ones, to hand-blown glass. You can also find small ornament sets in pharmacies to add to your tree- including traditional straw ornaments. Look for chocolate ornaments in the grocery stores- they come with strings to hang them on the tree. Kids love slowly eating the chocolates after Christmas, to “undecorate” the tree.

After January 6th (All Kings Day), most Christmas trees come down. You’ll see disposal signs and locations listed in your neighborhood. Add your tree to the pile and it will be properly disposed of. These donation points are pretty obvious, and generally not far from the main recycling stations in each neighborhood.

Holiday Closed Days

Most businesses in Vienna close on December 24, 25th, and 26th. These are all considered holidays, and most people are home with their families. This often includes grocery stores, so plan ahead.

Grocery Stores Close Early (Always)

Across Vienna, many grocery stores close at 7:30 or earlier as their normal schedule. Don’t expect to come home late and stop by the store on your way home. You may find one or two that stay open until 8 pm, but this is considered late. Many stores are closed all day Sunday and may close at 6 pm or earlier on Saturday.

Tram Tickets in Vienna

Tram tickets are available at your local Tabak (newspaper, magazine, candy, and smoke shops). You can buy individual tickets, day passes, senior tickets, or children’s reduced tickets. Just tell the storekeeper what you need and they will count them out for you. You have to pay cash for all transit tickets.

We wrote a full guide to getting around Vienna , they have a very useful, effective public transport system.

Kids Ride Public Transit Free on School Holidays

Kids under 15 ride for free on all school holidays, which includes December 24th through January 6th. You can check the school calendar for other school holidays in Vienna.

FAQ: Vienna in December

Yes, it can and does snow in Vienna in December, though not usually very much. You are more likely to get a dusting or two, than any significant snowfall.

Yes, absolutely! December is one of the best times to visit Vienna as you will find the city adorned with lots of lights, tons of colorful decorations, and festive Christmas markets to ease the chill and ring in the Holiday spirit!

Yes, Vienna is cold in December, with average temperatures ranging from a high of 40°F (5°C) to a low of 32°F (0°C).

Yes, it does rain in Vienna in December, though not a lot as it is one of the drier months.

There You Have It: Vienna in December

There is so much to do in Vienna Austria in December- from endless museums to unique and festive Christmas markets. Don’t let the cold weather keep you away, winter is a wonderful season to visit Austria.

Don’t miss a tour of the Vienna Christmas markets , enjoy a classical concert in the beautifully decorated St. Peters Church, or perhaps treat yourself to a dessert and pastry tour of Vienna!

We had an amazing family trip to Vienna to celebrate the holidays and enjoy winter. We enjoyed all the festivities and all the traditional attractions.

Ready to plan your trip to Vienna? Check out our full guide to visiting the best Christmas markets in Vienna .

Waker von Berg is the co-founder of Sharing the Wander. He is a life-long traveler and problem solver specializing in long-term travel and family travel. He is an adventurer and gearhead who loves researching how to make traveling easier. Waker and his family embarked on a Family Gap Year in 2021, and haven't looked back.

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Visiting Vienna

What to do in December

Possibly my favourite month in Vienna. December is, of course, the Christmas season.

The aroma of Glühwein and Punch courses through the streets, and the city glistens under thousands of seasonal (energy-saving) lights.

• Book a concert experience * for your Vienna trip
• November – January
• Find December accommodation

Vienna in December 2024

We have all the usual museums , concerts , tours and similar. But let us explore December’s unique offerings…

The Christmas season

(The lights on the pedestrianised Graben in the city centre)

May I simply direct you to 9 things to do in Vienna at Christmas ?

Those are my top tips for enjoying a truly Viennese advent experience: from the best places to see the lights to the joys of Christmas classical concerts , roast chestnuts and sausages.

Alternatively, browse the big Christmas 2024 overview .

The markets

(The Altwiener Christkindlmarkt on the Freyung square)

The Christmas markets dominate the Viennese December. The main ones all open around mid-November and stay open until December 23rd (or later in some cases).

Popular with locals, too, many are long-established traditional markets: these are not gimmicks to keep tourists amused.

Colleagues, friends, and families collect at them to share a mug of Advent cheer and enjoy a bowl of goulash or a pair of frankfurters and then take home a chocolate-coated strawberry or two. Or three.

(The lovely Art Advent market with the Karlskirche behind)

I should mention that most of the markets deserve their reputation. Atmospheric, packed with local food and beverages, and stuffed with stalls selling arts, crafts and enough Lebkuchen to delight a hungry whale.

If you only have limited time, these tips should help you choose which of the many markets to visit.

A couple of bonus markets and similar events tend to also pop up during December or late November. For example:

• An alternative to the traditional open-air markets for finding gifts and handicrafts is the Edelstoff X-MAS edition: an indoor design fair in the Marx Halle (December 7th and 8th)
• The Weihnachtsquartier at the MuseumsQuartier opens its doors for three days of art and design from independent creatives (next dates TBA)
• The hughely-popular Medieval Advent market sells its plague cures , smock fashions , suitably historical crafts, wares, food and beverages behind the Heeresgeschichtliches Museum (2024 dates TBA)
• Palais Niederösterreich hosts the lovely So Schmeckt NÖ Adventmarkt , with food, drink, crafts and other items from the province of Lower Austria (2024 dates TBA)
• The WAMP design market Christmas edition dropped into the MuseumsQuartier for the first time last year and looks set to repeat on December 7th

Art & film in December 2024

(The Albertina art museum has a Chagall exhibition)

The more prestigious art museums save up their best exhibitions for the later part of the year, presumably to catch the December crowds.

I await full schedules, but prospective highlights already announced include:

• The Albertina reveals the genius of Marc Chagall in a huge retrospective
• The Kunsthistorisches Museum blesses us with a major Rembrandt exhibition, notably in dialogue with one of his students (Samuel van Hoogstraten)
• Completing a trio of artistic greats: Paul Gauguin at the Bank Austria Kunstforum Wien
• The Albertina also has a Robert Longo exhibition, a rather intriguing exhibition that promises to bring Schiele’s lost paintings back to life in the form of copies by Adrian Ghenie, and highlights from the Othmar Huber Collection
• The Albertina Modern has solo exhibitions for Alfred Kubin (suited to dark winter days) and the great Erwin Wurm
• For something a little brighter, the Heidi Horten Collection has the multisensory Light, Sound and Senses exhibition
• Staying with seasonal themes, the Wien Museum looks at various aspects of Winter in Vienna
• Ever wondered what it’s like managing a contemporary art collection in 2024? The Wien Museum MUSA has some answers
• Lower Belvedere has solo exhibitions for the Finnish artist Akseli Gallen-Kallela and the Ghanaian artist Amoako Boafo
• The Leopold Museum turns its attention to Rudolf Wacker and New Objectivity, but also to the designs and artistic collaborations of the Backhausen company (eminent producers of decorative fabrics and furniture)
• Among the MAK Museum’s many exhibitions: Aut Now with leading examples of 21st century Austrian design. Also discover current trends in fashion photography and one of the Wiener Moderne’s creative geniuses: Dagobert Peche (from December 11th)
• Grasp the importance of camels and other domesticated camelids for history and culture in a special exhibition at the Weltmuseum. They also, for example, present indigenous art of the Amazon and take a look at the influence of Islamic scripture on the development of European ideas
• Discover the life and work of the great composer Anton Bruckner at the National Library’s State Hall, while their Literature Museum presents the acclaimed writer Friederike Mayröcker
• Ditto, but this time for Johann Strauss II at the Theatermuseum (expected to start sometime in December)
• Finally, the Jewish Museum looks at the legacy of the Holocaust through the eyes of the third post-Shoah generation and also explores various dimensions of the term “fear”

See the main exhibition listings for more suggestions as schedules continue to expand.

And, if you prefer screens to canvas, consider the VIFA Vienna International Film Awards (December 1st to 8th).

New Year’s Eve

A huge number of folk spend December 31st on the Silvesterpfad , which involves a trail of locations through the city centre with temporary stages and all sorts of entertainment: from public ballroom dancing lessons to DJs and funk bands.

No need to pack sandwiches, either: numerous food and drink stalls line the route.

(A stop on the Silvesterpfad in a previous year)

The days leading up to the big night also feature the natural successor to the Christmas market as one or more New Year markets spring up (often in the same locations as their predecessors). You miss the Advent ambience a little, but the big ones still remain rather fine.

Catch the New Year’s concert(!)

Yes, you read that right.

Should you wish to catch the prestigious and globally-recognised January 1st New Year’s Concert from the Wiener Philharmoniker orchestra, you can do so in December: the orchestra plays the full programme on December 30th and December 31st, too.

The only problem is you need to have applied for tickets via a lottery system much earlier in the year.

Seasonal tip(s)

Escape the cold.

(One of our traditional coffee houses)

The bracing December weather means you may wish to take advantage of Vienna’s classic cafés , where coffee is an art form, and time stands still long enough for you to warm your toes on strudel and your hearts on sachertorte.

And, if you want to make a point of staying warm, Vienna has its own thermal spa. You can reach Therme Wien easily on the U1 subway.

The spa also lives next door to a branch of one of the more famous Viennese confectioneries: Kurkonditorei Oberlaa . So if you do choose to swim, rather than soak, you can earn yourself a slice or two of cake afterwards.

Another less time-consuming warm water option in the centre of town is the Schwerelos Floating Centre , where you float (and, more importantly, switch off and relax) in a broad tub of saltwater.

Dance on ice

(The ice skating association has a long and prestigious history)

The huge Vienna Ice World outdoor complex only opens in January . But we have other notable open-air ice rinks in Vienna. For example:

• The Eislaufverein holds a special place in the history of the city (and of ice skating), and the rink normally opens throughout December
• The Christmas on the Rathausplatz festivities typically include 3000m 2 of lighted ice trails through the park as a taster for that larger Ice World event

Dress warmly & time your market visit

December is winter time in Austria. And the Christmas markets look best at dusk and later, so you don’t even have the sun to keep you warm.

The markets are also popular (to say the least), particularly the nearer you get to December 24th. So consider going midweek in the late afternoon, when you probably get the best tradeoff between atmosphere and crowds. Find some more tips for visiting the markets.

December is typically one of the two most popular months for visitors in Vienna alongside August. So plan and book accommodation early, especially if you want to stay in the city over the Christmas and New Year public holidays.

Journey of Doing

Vienna in December: The Most Stunning Christmas City

The second stop on our Christmas market tour of Central Europe (#SandTGoChristmasMarketing: Round 2) is Vienna.  Vienna in December is magical and COLD .  I knew that from our first Christmas market adventure , but I couldn’t resist the allure of continuing to crack Vienna.  With two prior trips to Vienna under our belt, we still felt like we were missing something about the city.  We like Vienna, but we wanted to know why people love Vienna.  Personally, I love the Christmas lights and think they might be the best in all of Europe.  The Christmas lights are what took us back to Vienna.  And, as with any adventure, we found a few more things to love about the city.

Vienna is a great stopover between Salzburg and Prague or Budapest.  We’ve used it as both via car and by train.  I’m not typically an advocate for day trips, but if you wanted to take a day trip to Bratislava, it’s about an hour away from Vienna and has a completely different vibe.  Though we didn’t visit them on this trip, I love the Bratislava Christmas markets .

Disclosure:  This post contains affiliate links for tours and products I love at no additional cost to you.  You can read my  full disclosure policy here.

2023 Vienna Christmas Markets Dates

• 11/11/2023 – 12/26/2023 – Vienna Rathaus Christmas Market
• 11/10/2023 – 12/23/2023 – Am Hof Christmas Market
• 11/10/2023 – 12/23/2023 – Stephansplatz Christmas Market
• 11/16/2023 – 12/23/2023 – Spittelberg Christmas Market
• 11/15/2023 – 12/23/2023 – Vienna Christmas Market at Maria Theresien Square
• 11/17/2023 – 12/23/2023 – Belvedere Palace Christmas Market
• 11/24/2023 – 12/23/2023 – Karlzplatz Adventmarkt in Vienna
• 11/18/2023 – 12/26/2023 – Schönbrunn Palace Christmas Market (New Year’s Market until January 4, 2024)

Where to Stay in Vienna at Christmas

As I mentioned above, Vienna is cold.  For that reason, I believe the closer you can stay to the Vienna city center, the better.  There are many hotels along the Ringstrasse, including many U.S. chain hotels.  It isn’t that far, but it’s also not that close in freezing cold temperatures.  Vienna has a good tram system, as well as a good metro system, but the beauty of Vienna in December is being out and about.  If it’s in the budget, I recommend finding a hotel inside the Ringstrasse.

Hotel am Stephansplatz

As I was navigating Tom through the Vienna city center, he kept asking me if I was sure I was right.  We turned on to a narrow street, with St. Stephan’s Cathedral staring us down, and he asked me again if I was sure we were going the right way.  At the end of the block, directly in front of the cathedral, sits Hotel am Stephansplatz .  Tom thinks it’s the best hotel find ever.  Location, location, oh, and location.  Did I mention how cold Vienna is?  This hotel is a dream on those cold nights.

I think this is one of the best hotels in Vienna for Christmas because it’s right in the middle of all the Christmas cheer.  It’s a short walk to the biggest Christmas markets.  (There’s even a Christmas market in front of the hotel !)  And, there’s a metro stop right in front of the hotel, so you can easily visit Schonbrunn Palace , too.  The staff is extremely helpful and took care of valeting our car, delivering our (heavy) luggage to our room, and getting us restaurant recommendations.

Our classic double room had an interior courtyard view, so it was incredibly quiet.  The rooms are on the smaller size, but they are well laid out for optimal efficiency.  The wardrobe is large enough to store two large suitcases.  Beds are comfortable and have dual duvets, as seems to be typical in Austrian hotels.  We also had a nice sitting area, including a table.  There are tea kettles, coffee makers, and a mini-fridge in the room.  Bathrooms are large and offer both a stand up shower and a soaking tub.  Breakfast is included with the room rate.  I particularly enjoyed the pretzel rolls and the view.  Try to grab a table overlooking Stephansplatz, but know that it does get busy.

The only negative thing about the hotel is that the curtains weren’t black out curtains, so the light from the building kept the room from being completely dark.  They did close the hotel for renovations after the new year, so perhaps that will be one of the things they change. All in all, it’s a small price to pay for such an amazing location.

Vienna Marriott Hotel

I lost all the photos from our stay at the Vienna Marriott during our first Christmas market trip, but I wanted to share a little bit about this hotel.  The Marriott is on the Ringstrasse, so it’s a short walk to the city center.  We booked this hotel using points and received a standard deluxe room .  We were not upgraded as Marriott Titanium (then Premier Platinum) members, but we did get club lounge access. The club lounge is very small for the size of the hotel. Every time we visited, it was impossible to find a seat.  That being said, our platinum arrival gift (mixed nuts and water) was promptly delivered to the room.

It feels like a large conference hotel.  It appears that they have added some touches to the rooms to make them feel less nondescript.  It’s a perfect fine hotel and the beds are comfortable.  The bathrooms have dual sinks and a combination shower and bathtub.  Bath amenities were Green Mandarin Acca Kappa , a brand I wasn’t familiar with but I enjoyed.  This Marriott does offer turn down service, and I particularly enjoyed the pez peppermint candies.

We did try to use the indoor pool, but it was too cold.  I gave up after trying get acclimated for 10 minutes.  It might be a cultural preference, so I don’t necessarily blame the hotel for that.  I think it’s just something to be aware of, especially if you have kids and are hoping to use the hotel pool.  (Kids are probably tougher than I am.)

Ritz Carlton Vienna

The Ritz Carlton Vienna is also on the Ringstrasse, but it’s a little closer to the opera house and the city center.  This is the best hotel in Vienna for Christmas markets if you’re looking for luxury. Vienna hotels are expensive, so we used points to book this hotel.  We were upgraded to a junior suite as a result of being Marriott Platinum.  This hotel has the most character of all the Vienna hotels that we have stayed in.  The plush rooms are decorated with rich fabrics, dark woods, and deep colors.

With a private bedroom, separate living area, and huge bathroom, the junior suite is one of the largest rooms I’ve ever stayed in while in Europe.  The living area has a couch, a nice-sized desk, a coffee and tea service area, and even a small patio that overlooks the city.  An oasis of calm, the bedroom houses one of the comfortable beds that I have every experienced.  The green and white marble bath has a separate shower and soaking tub, dual sinks, and heated floors.  Bath amenities are Aspery purple water , which actually works really well with my hair.  The rooms come with plush robes, slippers, and turn down service.

The vitality pool in the spa is one of the best amenities though.  After a long day of walking in Vienna, it is absolutely the best way to unwind.  If you’re looking for an absolutely luxurious stay in Vienna, there is no better choice than this hotel.  (Personally, I think it’s better for spring, summer and fall visits because of the cold weather.)

Visiting the Vienna Christmas Markets in December

Vienna has some of the best Christmas markets and I haven’t even seen them them all yet.  The Vienna Christmas markets open slightly earlier than the Salzburg Christmas markets but you’ll want to check with the Austrian Tourism Board before you plan your trip.  In addition to the large Christmas markets, Vienna has several smaller markets throughout the city, including markets at Stephansplatz  and  the Hofburg .  On our first Christmas market trip, we took a Vienna Christmas Market walking tour of the city.  It was a great introduction the city and allows you to see the sights, but it was cold .  It was so cold that we missed the Christmas Village at Belvedere Palace , which is still one of my greatest regrets.  You will want to dress appropriately for the tour.  Vienna gets very cold when the sun goes down.

Vienna Christmas Market at the Rathaus

The Vienna Christmas market tour walked by the Vienna Christmas Dream market , but it did not include a stop.  Between the ice skating, the backdrop of the Rathaus, and the beautiful lights wishing us Frohe Weihnachte, I knew this market would be our first stop.  We did our shopping at the market during the day, when it was less crowded, but the Christmas magic happens at night.  Be aware that it will be very, very crowded.  I found this market to have the largest selection of mulled wine and tasty beverages and the most unique Christmas ornaments.  I’m still kicking myself for not buying a hand-painted ornament of St. Stephen’s Cathedral.

Am Hof Christmas Market

One night, Tom and I just wandered through the streets of Vienna to see where we ended up.  The Am Hof Christmas market turned out to be a lovely surprise.  It felt very local and we followed our noses from stall to stall.  The jovial spirit was palpable despite the freezing temperatures.  It felt like it had more tables to stand at, so it was easier to enjoy the treats.  Right around the corner is the Freyung market , which also offers tasty punch and snacks.

Art Advent Market at Karlsplatz

The Art Advent market is most convenient to the hotels on the Ringstrasse.  It’s also the most kid-friendly market as it offers a large play area.  It felt like the most artisan market that we visited and had the most unique gift options.  Unfortunately, I don’t have any of the pictures from our visit because of the great hard drive debacle, but it’s definitely family-friendly and worth checking out.

Schönbrunn Palace Christmas and New Year’s Market

The Schobrunn Palace market is a great option because you can couple it with a guided tour of Schönbrunn Palace .  When you consider the fact that you can take the metro to get there and warm up with a tour when you get too cold, this might be the best Christmas market in Vienna in December.  We ended up having lunch at this Christmas market before our tour.  It’s where I met the most amazing thing: the party pretzel.  A party pretzel is a pretzel that is bigger than your head.  I didn’t name it, either.  This market is good for tasty treats, gifts (especially journals and toys for kids), and beautiful Christmas ornaments.  There are numerous concerts at the Schonbrunn market, which only adds to the holiday cheer.  

Bonus: If you aren’t able to take an apple strudel cooking class in Salzburg , Schonbrunn offers a strudel show!  It’s one of the few Christmas markets that runs through January, too!

Things to Do in Vienna in December

One of the best things about Vienna is that there is no shortage of things to do indoors.  There are plenty of ways to warm up in the city.  One of the things I appreciate most about Vienna is the coffee house culture.  It’s like stepping back in time.  Tom and I love to head to Cafe Central for amaretto hot chocolate and pastries.  (Okay, Tom gets a beer.)  Whether it’s a lazy Sunday morning or after an evening of wandering around the city, it’s our favorite place to relax and slow down.

Learn to Waltz in Vienna

On our last trip to Vienna in December, we took a Viennese waltz class !  Even with my dance background, this was much harder than I expected!  The dance studio is located very close to the hotels on the Ringstrasse, so this would be a great option if you wanted something fun to do that is very close to your hotel!  The instructor is incredibly patient and does a tremendous job of breaking down the steps into manageable bits.  While I always thought it would be fun to dress up and attend a Vienna New Year’s Ball (okay, I still do), my waltz skills need a lot of practice before prime time.  I wish we had photos.  (Dress in layers – the studio is very warm and you’ll get hot very quickly!)

Visit Schonbrunn Palace

It takes less than 20 minutes to get to Schonbrunn.  I know time is precious on vacation, but I really enjoyed this tour.  We used the  Vienna Day by Day book to plan our trip on the u-bahn.  It’s easy to purchase tickets using the automated ticket kiosk, but make sure you hold on them until you exit the station.  There were guards inspecting tickets as we were leaving the station.

If you don’t want to book a tour in advance, you can purchase a ticket and a tour when you arrive, but the tour time will depend on how busy they are.  You may not get the next available time.  The guided tour runs approximately an hour and includes headsets, so you can always hear the guide.  One reason that I think it’s great to do this tour is because there are not photos allowed within the palace.  You will never see what the palace rooms look like if you don’t!  I think the Empress had great taste, but more importantly, I learned a lot about the Austro Hungarian Empire.  The Christmas market and strudel show is merely a bonus!

Enjoy the Museums and the Music

One of the things that you have to know about visiting Vienna is that culture is a huge part of Viennese life.  There are not a lot of English language tours for the museums.  (Trust me, Tom an I have tried to find every Vienna tour in the city.)  Whether it’s visiting the Albertina , the Hofburg , or the Opera House , there is no shortage of masterpieces to experience in the winter.  If that’s not your thing, Mozart lives on in Vienna , not only through his residence, but also through concerts.  If you’re going to be in Vienna for Christmas Eve, Schonbrunn offers a concert .  While these may not be things that you ever do at home, there is no better city to experience classical music than Vienna… and truly, it might be the most traditional to stay warm during December in Vienna.

St. Stephen’s Cathedral

While a gothic cathedral isn’t the best place to warm up, it shouldn’t be missed on your trip to Vienna.  (It’s near impossible to miss given its prime location.)  Rick Steves has an audio tour of the Cathedral that you can download and listen to as a guide.  None of the tours I have done in Vienna have ever included a visit inside the cathedral, so it’s a great way to learn more about what you are looking at.  One thing that I find particularly remarkable is how quickly this cathedral was restored after World War II.  I find the roof, in particular, to be especially beautiful  The pattern created by the 230,000 individual tiles is awe-inspiring.

Try All the Viennese Pastries

It goes without saying that I have a sweet tooth.  Fortunately, the Viennese seem to have one as well.  Obviously, you have to try the Sacher Torte.  The Sacher Torte is a delicious flourless chocolate cake with apricot jam to keep it moist.  Allegedly, the exact recipe is on lockdown at the Sacher Cafe , but I’ve seen it on other Viennese menus.  My favorite Sacher Torte is the original.

The DK travel guide on Austria offers information on different regional specialties.  I read about the Mohr im Hemd and I was determined to find it.  I found it at both Demel and Cafe Central.  It’s almost like a chocolate soufflé (and takes almost as long to make) with melted chocolate and fresh whipped cream.  Demel has the most incredible (and rich) Mohr im Hemd.  If you’re allergic to nuts, they offer a large selection of cakes in the most beautiful setting.

As far as apple strudel goes, I think Demel has one of the best.  They make a damn good pastry.

Where to Eat in Vienna

You need a reservation for dinner when you’re in Vienna in December, particularly on weekends.  I can’t say this enough.  While our concierge didn’t laugh at us when we asked for help getting into some of the more popular restaurants, he was definitely amused.  We ended up with a few mediocre meals because we didn’t plan well.  Here are a few of our favorites:

• Trattoria da Angelo  – We stumbled upon this after our waltz class when tempers were running high and patience was running short.  It’s a tiny restaurant, but thankfully they let us in.  I still dream of the ravioli mamma rosa.
• Figlmuller – It’s a bit touristy with the schnitzel that is bigger than your head, but it is delicious.  The Viennese are some of the kindest that we’ve ever met.  They were extraordinarily committed to ensure that we had a great meal.
• Bitzinger  and Wiener Wurstl – While these wurstl stands are the most conducive to a December visit, they are a quick and tasty meal.  Order what the locals in front of you do.  We’ve ended up with some delicious wurstls that way.

Travel Tips for Visiting Vienna in December

Be prepared for it to be cold.  You need at least two sets of  cuddleduds for Vienna.  Cashmere sweaters will keep you the warmest.  (I found some inexpensive ones at Nordstrom.  The quality is not the best, but they kept me warm.)  You will absolutely need a warm scarf that fits snug around your neck, as well as a hat and warm gloves.  While we didn’t encounter as much snow in Vienna as we did in Salzburg, it was wet.  You want waterproof boots.  Take the U-Bahn when you can, but don’t miss the beauty of Vienna.

Beyond that, you have to be comfortable letting Vienna reveal itself to you.  We’ve made three trips to the city, and each time we visit, I think we peel back another layer of the onion.  I still don’t think we’ve reached the heart of the melon though.

The grand architecture is beautiful.  Cafes are to be savored; they aren’t Starbucks.  Meals are expected to be slower.  One of the funniest things we encountered was when our concierge made us a reservation for dinner.  He said that the restaurant could accommodate us between 4:00 and 6:30, but they would need the table at 7:00.  Desperate for a dinner reservation, my husband said, “No problem, we’re American.  We can eat in that time.”  He gave my husband a bemused smile said, “But the restaurant is Austrian.”

Sara loves to help people use their vacation time more effectively by planning beautiful, memorable, and delicious trips. She spends several weeks every year exploring Italy and central Europe. In addition to her full-time job, she is constantly searching for beautiful places and spaces. She loves the direct flights between Dallas and Italy, France, and Germany but is always up for wherever a great deal on an airline ticket will take her. (Sara also really loves European Christmas markets and tries to visit at least one new one every holiday season.)

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i am loving all those beautiful lights the city has during the holiday season! the hotel you guys stayed in looked great and oh my goodness,that food looks delicious! xo, Biana

Vienna looks gorgeous in Xmas time, we have been there only in the summer

Hi there! Thank you so much for all of this amazing insight. How is Vienna between Christmas and New Years? I know the Christmas markets will be closed, but how is the rest of the city? I keep seeing mixed things! Thanks SOOO much! Xx

Hi! It’s quite lovely and still quite festive! I would expect things to be pretty quiet through the 26th, but it will pick back up after that. On New Year’s Eve, there are people out waltzing in the streets. It will be cold, so you’ll want to plan accordingly. The Schonbrunn New Year’s market will be open, and there are still performances happening throughout the city. I think you’ll find plenty to do!

Hello, I’ve reread your helpful article several times and it reassures me that it will be worth it to go during Christmas time. Do you have any ideas for Christmas Day activities? Mass or a fancy holiday dinner at one of the hotels palaces etc? Thank you

Hi Erica!! I would absolutely go to midnight mass at St. Stephen’s. I would check with your hotel about how early to get there, but it will be an unforgettable experience and worth the wait, even if you have to stand. The Vienna Tourism Board may have info as well. (They are SO lovely and SO helpful ( https://www.wien.info/en/travel-info/tourist-info/religious-services-356426 ). I definitely recommend making a reservation for dinner. Before booking dinner at a fancy hotel, I’d reach out to your hotel for recommendations. I’ve found a lot of great places that way that I wouldn’t have known about! 🙂

If you return to Vienna, I can highly recommend the Park Hyatt, which looks out onto the Am Hof Christmas Market. It is the perfect location for the markets or really any visit where you’d like to be in the center of things.

Also not sure if you visited the Ferstel Passage, but it is one of the highlights of Vienna for me. Very Parisian, and there’s even a great French Restaurant named Beaulieu inside.

The newly renovated Wien Museum Karlsplatz has a wonderful permanent exhibit about the city’s history, definitely worth a visit, very enlightening.

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10 Best Things to Do in Vienna in Winter (+Dreamy Photos)

Full disclosure: I have a hard time dealing with cold weather. I knew I wanted to visit Vienna in winter but wasn’t sure how to survive. I’m cold even at mild temperatures, and no matter how many layers I put on, my hands and feet are still freezing, making it unbearable.

But what can you do when there are countless dreamy winter breaks in Europe and you don’t want to miss out on the experience? So I packed my warmest clothes and prepared myself mentally, and guess what? It was pure magic, even when I had more than 10 pieces of clothing on me.

In case you’re wondering if you should visit Vienna in the winter too, maybe this post will convince you.

* This post may contain affiliate links from which I earn a commission (for more info, read my disclosure ). As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

* I try to keep the information on this blog as updated as possible, but I still recommend consulting the latest prices, opening hours, and other details on the official website of each site, hotel, and tour, as well as checking the updated public transport routes and timetables.

Planning a last-minute winter trip? Book yourself one of these highly-rated activities: 1. Christmas market tour 2. A classic free tour of Vienna that includes some of its most iconic landmarks 3. A free night tour of Vienna , if you want to explore its monuments after the sun sets 4. Schönbrunn Palace guided tour 5. A guided day tour to the fairytale town of Hallstatt

Book one of these highly-rated hotels: 1. Boutique Hotel Das Tigra (mid-range) 2. Boutiquehotel Das Tyrol (4-star boutique)

Table of Contents

Best Things to Do in Vienna in Winter

Enjoy magical christmas markets.

Vienna is one of the most beautiful cities in Austria and one of the best winter destinations in Europe , and it all starts with its Christmas markets. Being Jewish, I don’t celebrate Christmas nor do I have many markets in my country.

However, I’ve always loved Christmas markets in Europe. Even though I don’t feel connected to them religiously, the atmosphere has always intrigued me, and I have to say that Vienna’s markets did not disappoint.

The biggest market in Vienna is the Rathausplatz Christkindlmarkt in front of the city hall. Apart from countless stalls selling ornaments, food, and other artisanal products, the entire area is beautifully embellished with big and colorful decorations.

I also recommend visiting smaller markets like the one in the Spittelberg quarter, where the vibe is a lot cozier. For the full list of markets in Vienna, read here .

If you want to have a unique experience, book a Christmas market walking tour !

Devour Yummy Christmas Markets Food and Drinks

Wandering around these markets, it’s impossible to resist all that deliciousness around you (even as a vegetarian).

Amongst the foods that you need to try are dumplings, roasted chestnuts, donuts, and gingerbread cookies, but my personal favorite was kartoffelpuffer, which is a giant, hot, and crispy (and seriously addictive) potato pancake.

As far as drinks, I’m not into eggnog and other alcoholic punches, but I wouldn’t say no to a hot apple punch, especially when it’s served in the most adorable cup ever.

Enjoy a Christmas Concert

Many churches and cathedrals in Vienna host classical music concerts in December and the beginning of January, and they are quite popular, so it’s recommended to book your tickets in advance.

Go Ice Skating

I used to rollerblade as a child, so for some reason, I thought that ice skating would be easy. What a shocker – it wasn’t.

Whether you’re a total beginner like me or an ice skating pro, Vienna Ice World in City Hall Square (Rathausplatz) is where you can spend an active couple of hours. Buy your tickets in advance!

(Maybe) See Some Fall Foliage Leftovers

I’m a sucker for fall foliage, so I was hoping to get to see some in Vienna, even though it was already the beginning of winter. Luckily, Vienna’s parks and gardens did not disappoint, and I was like a kid in a candy store.

If you’re also visiting at the beginning of winter, there’s a very good chance you’ll see the fall foliage in places like Stadtpark, Burggarten, and the Schönbrunn Gardens.

Wander the Decorated Streets

It’s not just the Christmas markets that make you fall in love with Vienna in winter, it’s the entire city that wears a festive look.

If you wander through the city center, you’ll see big Christmas trees, decorations on buildings and stores, and illuminated streets.

But, you must also explore smaller streets like in the Spittelberg quarter, where you can find the most charming decorated little alleys.

Tip: If you’re like me and winter doesn’t stop you from devouring ice cream while wandering through the city center, head to Eissalon Tuchlauben – one of the best ice cream shops in Vienna .

Escape the Weather at a Museum

Did you know that there are more than 100 museums in Vienna ? So whenever you feel like escaping the cold weather for an hour or two, you have plenty of amazing options, including the infamous Art History Museum (Kunsthistorisches) and Museum of Natural History (Naturhistorisches).

Warm Yourself up With a Cup of Viennese Coffee and Cake

Not that I need an excuse to savor a cup of coffee and a giant piece of cake, but the cold winter weather is definitely a good enough reason to do so.

Coffee and cake are a huge part of the local culture in Vienna, and choosing the perfect Viennese coffee house is practically mission impossible.

I’d start with a famous one like Demel (Kohlmarkt 14). It’s famous for its apple strudel (which was amazing), but I also had the almond cake, and it was heavenly. Cafe Sacher (Philharmoniker 4) is known for making some of the best Sacher Torte in Vienna (a delicious Viennese chocolate cake).

Another famous visit-worthy coffee house is Cafe Central (Herrengasse 14). I tried the kaiserschmarrn which is a shredded pancake that was topped with icing sugar and served with stewed plums, and it was delicious.

Although these famous places can be overrated, these ones actually live up to the expectations. You’ll probably have to wait in line for a few minutes, but the coffee, the cakes, and the elegant atmosphere are totally worth it.

After a few popular coffee houses, try to find some hidden ones too. I had stumbled upon  Cafe in der Burggasse24  by accident and immediately fell in love. Its quiet front facade was deceiving because the cafe had really cool decor and it was full of people.

Don’t hesitate to get off the beaten path and find your own Viennese hidden cafes .

Take the Vienna Ring Tram

Vienna is home to some beautiful and important Austrian landmarks like the Parliament, the State Opera, and the Natural History Museum.

All of these are a part of Vienna’s Ringstrasse , a 5.3 km (about 3.3 miles) ring road that includes most of the city’s most important historical buildings.

Obviously, the best way to explore the city is by foot, but if you’re not into circling the entire route (or even if you are), you can take the Vienna Ring Tram for a 20-25-minute journey around this magnificent boulevard.

Embrace the Snow

Who doesn’t love snow? Even I, a girl with a fear of cold weather, didn’t care about anything when I saw the streets covered in white.

The entire city becomes irresistibly charming, but it’s the parks and Christmas markets that really bring out the magic.

Related Posts

Wondering how to spend your time in Vienna? Check out this perfect 2-day itinerary or my 4-day itinerary (including 10 accommodations you’ll love and the best areas to stay in Vienna for Christmas markets ).

You might also like:

• Turin in winter
• Italy in winter

Want to know more about Vienna? Continue reading all my posts about it here and see why it’s also a great spring destination in Europe and an amazing girls’ trip destination .

About Or Amir

Hey, I'm Or! I'm a passionate traveler with a severe coffee, chocolate, and pastry addiction (or any other carb for that matter). I'm always planning my next trip to Spain, Italy, or any other country in Europe, and my goal is to help you make the most of each destination.

8 thoughts on “10 Best Things to Do in Vienna in Winter (+Dreamy Photos)”

Nice article! We are planning to visit Vienna end of December… is there any chance to see some snow?

Thank you, Klara! Yes, in December you’ll probably see the snow 🙂

These photos of Vienna in winter are gorgeous! I’m trying to work a visit to Vienna into my 2019 travel plans, and I think a pre-Christmas visit would be perfect 🙂

If it works out for you, go for it! Visiting Vienna in winter really was one of the best experiences I’ve had 🙂

What an amazing place to spend the holidays. Love the food and markets and decor. So glad I’m not one to get cold really easily. Putting Vienna at the top of my winter travel list.

You are so lucky not to get cold easily! It was quite a challenge for me, but it was totally worth it 🙂

I’ve wanted to visit Vienna for years – now I definitely know what time of year I want to go! 😉 #blogpostsaturday

I’m glad I was able to give some inspiration 🙂 Vienna was magical!

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Hi, I'm Or!

I'm a passionate traveler obsessed with traveling in Europe and discovering hidden gems in each place I visit. For me, it's not about ticking destinations off the bucket list but experiencing each one of them to the fullest. Read more about me and my story.

11 Marvelous Things to Do in Vienna in December: Winter in Vienna Guide

- This article contains affiliate links. For every purchase made through one of these links, I receive a small commission, at no extra cost to you. Thank you! -        

Visiting Vienna in winter is one of the best decisions one can make. Not only is this the time when the city is at its most beautiful state, but it also offers so many things to do that you might even get a bit overwhelmed.

Well, put all your worries aside, because I have created this guide specifically about things to do in Vienna in December. The weather may be a bit cold, but these activities will surely make your heart and soul warm and full of Christmas spirit. So, let’s dive into it.

Table of Contents

Where to stay in Vienna

Since moving out of Vienna, I got to go back a few times, and each time I was on the hunt for the best budget options for accommodation. During our last trip to Vienna we booked this place and it was the best we’ve stayed at so far. We usually book apartments, as hotels tend to be slightly more expensive, but it all depends on your preferences and your budget. I strongly recommend Vienna Stay Apartments , as the location was very good (just a few stops away from the city centre by tram), the apartment was clean and it was also very warm, especially considering we were visiting in winter.

The Best Things to do in Vienna in winter

1. visit the christmas markets.

One of the most essential things people come to Vienna in December is because of the Christmas markets . European Christmas markets are known for their incredibly festive atmosphere, delicious local food and drinks and incomparable holiday spirit.

Vienna is a proud home to 17 (yes, you read that correctly) Christmas markets, scattered all around the city centre and beyond.

I have a full Vienna Christmas markets guide , covering every single one of them, so you can decide for yourself which one you’d like to put on your agenda for visiting Vienna.

Check out the Ultimate Vienna Christmas Market Guide here! 

2. Admire the gorgeous Christmas decorations

The local municipality doesn’t hold back when it comes to creating a holiday spirit. They go absolutely full out on the decorations, if you ask me. Most central streets are covered in wonderful ornaments , many trees are wrapped in fairy lights , and some buildings have their own special decorations as well. You can’t not appreciate the beauty of it, especially after the sun sets and you’re left with a glowing city in front of your eyes.

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3. Enjoy a drink on the Christmas punch terraces

What’s better than sipping on a delicious drink while overlooking beautiful Vienna from above? The Christmas punch terraces make this possible and very accessible. The experience is usually accompanied by chill music, warm blankets and/or heating lamps.

There are a few places where you can go:

• The Ritz-Carlton Vienna Schubertring 5-7, 1010 November 15 – December 26, 2019 Daily from 4.00 pm – 9.00 pm
• Palais Coburg Coburgbastei 4, 1010 November 22 – December 22, 2019 Every Fr & Sa from 4.00 pm
• Klyo Punch Terrace Uraniastraße 1, 1010 November 15 – December 23, 2019 Daily from 5.00 pm – 10.00 pm
• Badeschiff (Punch Deck on the Pool Boat) Donaukanal (Schwedenplatz/Urania), 1010 All winter long from November 13, 2019 Mon-Sat from 4.00 pm – 10.00 pm, Sun from 2.00 pm – 8.00 pm
• Hotel Lamee Rotenturmstraße 15, 1010 November 15, 2019 – Mid of January 2020 Mo-Fr 12.00 noon – 11.00 pm, Sa & Su 10.00 am – 11.00 pm Closed when raining/snowing

4. Go on a walking tour

Despite the cold-ish weather, walking tours are still operating and they are certainly the best way to get to know the city. You can either choose between free walking tours (where you tip at the end) or organised paid walking tours (usually in much smaller groups than the free ones).

Some of the most popular free tours in Vienna are:

• PrimeTours: www.primetours.at Languages: German, English, Spanish Meeting point: Helmut-Zilk-Platz, look for the yellow umbrella When: Daily at 11:00 and 15:00 (English) Friday and Saturday at 9:30 (German) Evening tour Wednesday-Sunday 18:00 (English) Duration: 2 hours
• Welcome Tour Vienna: www.welcometourvienna.at Language: English Meeting point: Helmut-Zilk-Platz When: Daily at 10:30 and 14:30 (English) Duration: 2 – 2.5 hours
• Good Tours: www.goodviennatours.eu Language: German, English, Spanish Meeting Point: In Front of Albertina, Albertina platz 1, look for the green umbrella When: Daily 10:00 (English and Spanish) 14:00 (English and German) Duration: 2.5 hours

Free tours need to be booked online in advance !

For paid tours in smaller groups there is no registration needed . Just show up and pay on the spot. For more information visit this page .

5. Cosy up on the HOP-ON HOP-OFF Bus

An alternative, or even a supplement to the walking tours, are the big tourist buses. They drive around the city, reaching all major tourist attractions and providing information about them. They are also a great option when the weather is colder and you’d rather be sitting somewhere warm, but still getting to see and explore Vienna.

There are two companies you can choose from when it comes to the Hop On Hop Off buses in Vienna. They both offer very similar routes and prices, so you can check out both websites and decide for yourself:

• Vienna Big Bus Tours
• Vienna Sightseeing Bus 

Included in the Vienna Pass

6. Check out the amazing museums and exhibitions

Vienna is full of incredibly interesting and rich museums and there is something for absolutely everyone’s taste. I mean, we even have a Chocolate Museum!

Amongst the best and most popular ones are: Art History Museum, Leopoldmuseum, Albertina and Belvedere for art.

Natural History Museum, Weltmuseum for some history about the world;

Hofburg, Sisi Museum, Schönbrunn Palace for history about the Austrian empire and Princess Sisi

And much more… !

7. Go ice skating

What better time to go ice skating than in the winter season.. especially in Vienna. The most popular (and certainly the most beautiful) place to go ice skating is in front of the City Hall. The square transforms in a magical ice rink with fairy lights all around it, as well as different paths, curling around the trees, making it an exciting experience.

There are, of course, other ice rinks in Vienna, so if you want to avoid all the crowds, then head to Erste Bank Arena or Wiener Eislaufverein.

8. See a classical concert

What a better time to see a concert than while being in Vienna in December? I mean, the weather outside is already quite cold, and nothing beats sitting in a stunning old concert hall and listening to pure art.

Vienna is famous for its classical music concerts, especially since it is named the capital of music and it’s the place where Beethoven and Mozart used to live for some time in their lives. There are quite a few places which house classical concerts in Vienna, such as the Opera State House and Musikverein .

Tip: I would not recommend buying tickets from someone in the streets. Many well-dressed people will try to persuade you into buying a concert ticket from them – these are usually cheaply bought tickets with bad seats, which they are trying to sell for a higher price. Always go to the venue and purchase from there directly!

9. Take a day trip

If you have more time on your hands, I would definitely suggest taking a day trip to some other places around Vienna. A stunning destination, especially during winter, is Hallstatt – a tiny mountain village, located 3,5 hours from Vienna by car.

Another very preferred destination is Salzburg . The fourth largest city in Austria is also the birthplace of Mozart, and it attracts more and more visitors every year. Due to many factors like culture, history, heritage and attractions, Salzburg has been named ‘the most inspiring city’ of Austria. If you had to choose one more place to visit apart from Vienna,  this would most definitely be my recommendation.

Another very popular day trip from Vienna is the neighbouring capital of Slovakia – Bratislava . The city is located only about an hour away from Vienna and it’s a lovely city, which can easily be discovered in just one day. The city center is rather compact, but it still has this European charm to it.

10. Try local food

Wiener Schnitzel , Sachertorte , Kaiserschmarrn , Apfelstrudel and the list goes on.. Austria is home to some delicious food that you never knew has been missing in your life. Have breakfast at Hotel Sacher where you can try the special Sacher cake, prepared by the original recipe, and go to Figlmüller for dinner to try some of the best schnitzel in town. All the snacks and sweet treats you can taste at the Christmas Markets, which are always happening in Vienna in December. Naschmarkt , the biggest local food market, is another great place to taste different specialities.

11. Treat yourself to a day at the Therme

What better time to enjoy a nice relaxing day at the thermal spa than during the cold December in Vienna? Therme Wien is a large complex of many indoor and outdoor pools, as well as sauna, massage rooms etc.

The thermal baths are very easily reached by metro line U1 – the metro station Oberlaa drops you off right in front of Therme Wien.

How to get around Vienna?

Vienna is a big city, and even though the city centre is very walkable, you will most definitely have to use public transport to get around. Especially considering that some important tourist attractions are quite outside the city centre, like Schönbrunn palace and Belvedere palace for example.

The city’s main tourist card is the Vienna City Card and it gives you unlimited use of all public transport for a maximum of 72 hours, as well as discounts for museums. You can check prices here .

There are, however, a few other city cards to take into consideration. I have summed up every single one of them in this blog post , including descriptions, benefits, drawbacks and personal opinion on who are the cards most suitable for.

Final thoughts

In my personal opinion, Vienna is one of the most beautiful capital cities in the world . But in December it gets even better. I feel like this is the most beautiful state you could see it in. So don’t dwell on it too much, pack your bags and off to Vienna!

Do you want to learn more about Vienna? You may also enjoy:

11 Magical Things to Do in Vienna in January

Experiencing a Vienna Ball – How Can You Actually Attend One? My Tips

2 Days in Vienna – The Perfect Vienna Itinerary!

25 Free Things to do in Vienna, Austria

The Vienna Cards Explained! Which one to choose – Vienna City Card or Vienna Pass?

Vienna to Bratislava Day Trip – How to Spend One Day in Bratislava, Slovakia

Vienna Insider Tips – What to know before visiting?

Where to Find the Best Schnitzel in Vienna – Tips + Prices!

Explore Vienna on a Budget

21 Incredibly Instagrammable Places in Vienna, Austria

Ultimate Vienna Christmas Markets Guide – Full List

Where to go Ice Skating in Vienna – Ice Rinks in Vienna, Austria (Full List + Tips!)

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Lyubomira is the creator and author behind Bulgarian On The Go. With a background in journalism and experience in the field of tourism and marketing, her mission is to show travellers many beautiful places they might have never thought of visiting or even knew existed.

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Best Things To Do In Vienna Austria In Winter

Frohe Weihnachten! That means “Merry Christmas” in Austrian German. Austrians embrace the Christmas spirit and take the winter holiday season seriously.

In general, I love visiting Europe in the winter. Yes, it can be chilly, windy, and sometimes rainy.

But there are also vastly fewer tourists and lines. You can enjoy a cool and comfy tranquility, with some of the warmest memories imaginable.

In cities like Vienna, the twinkly lights and glittering imperial palaces glow like snow globes. Old world squares turn into magical Christmas markets.

Cozy coffee shops and restaurants offer up Viennese coffee, mulled wine, and gooey cream cakes — as if calories don’t count.

For 600 years, Vienna was the head of the grand Hapsburg empire. Vienna may have lost its political clout. But it’s still the home of Beethoven, Brahms, Strauss, Mozart, and artists like Gustave Klimit. Vienna knows how to live, and live well, no matter the season.

Here’s my guide to amazing things to see and do in Vienna during the winter season and Christmas.

Amazing Things To Do and See In Vienna in the Winter

1. take a wintery stroll.

Naturally, the best way to get to know Vienna is on foot. Bundle up and hit the streets.

Encircled by the grand Ringstrasse, the historic Old Town of Vienna, known as Innere Stadt, is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Today, the old town abounds in upscale shops and cafes lining pedestrianized Karntner Strasse and Graben. Art galleries and restaurants dot the surrounding streets.

If you’re visiting on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day, you might be the only one out exploring. You can snap photos and take in the beautiful white lights, pine boughs, and candles.

If you want a guided walking tour, try a Vienna History Walking Tour (learn about the Hapsburgs and Ottomans), a Ghosts & Legends Tour by night (Vienna’s haunted spots), or a Hitler Walking Tour (visit the war memorials and relive history).

Prefer a romantic ride by horse drawn carriage? There are 20 and 40 minute tours. You can find carriage stands in these city squares: Stephansplatz, Michaelerplatz, Albertinaplatz, Petersplatz and Burgtheater/Volksgarten.

>>> Click here to book a carriage ride

2. Visit Vienna’s Stunning Imperial Palaces

If you’re a history nerd like me, head inside and see how the Hapsburg monarchs lived. There’s nothing like a visit to   Schönbrunn Palace , Hofburg Palace , and the Belvedere Palace .

You can admire world class art against the historical backdrop of the Habsburg dynasty. The Hapsburgs ruled the Austro-Hungarian empire for nearly 650 years. In winter, all three palaces will be decorated to the hilt for Christmas.

A bit outside of the city center, Schönbrunn Palace is Vienna’s #1 attraction. It’s been a UNESCO-listed site since 1996, and is the height of elegance. Purchase your t ickets online in advance. Or hop on a skip the line guided tour .

The swishy Renaissance palace was the summer home of the Hapsburgs. You’ll want to check out the lavish stucco and gold rooms in the palace itself and the extensive garden complex (though it’s not as spectacular in winter, naturally). Plan to eat lunch at the Christmas Market.

Hofburg is one of the world’s biggest palace complexes. The Hapsburgs lived there until 1918. Honestly, I enjoyed it more than glitzy Schönbrunn. Far fewer tourists and just as much historical intrigue and swirly Rococo glitter.

Hofburg Palace is a lively combination of Rococo and Renaissance architecture. There are three parts you can visit: the Sisi Museum, the Imperial Apartments, and the Silver Collection. If you want to see everything, it will take the entire morning.

>>> Click here to book a skip the line Hofburg ticket

The Belvedere Palace is one of Vienna’s most visited tourist spots and another important UNESCO site, for its showy architectural ensemble.

The Belvedere Palace was built in 1712-23 by Johann Lucas von Hildebrandt, a master Baroque architect. The palace was the swishy summer residence of Prince Eugene of Savoy, a legendary military leader of his time.

3. Winter in Vienna’s World Class Museums

Vienna’s world class museums are some of the best things to do in the winter time. You escape the cold and admire great art.

The Belvedere Palace houses one of Europe’s most important museums. It’s definitely my favorite museum in Vienna. So if you’ll only make one “art stop,” this is the place to choose.

The Belvedere’s a haven of Baroque and Austrian art from the 19th and 20th centuries. Its main claim to fame is the world’s largest collection of Gustav Klimt paintings, including the world famous The Kiss . It also boasts masterworks by Egon Schiele and Oskar Kokoschka, two important Expressionist painters.

>>> Click here to book a skip the line Belvedere ticket

Alternatively, head to the Museumsquartier in Vienna. Opened in 2001, the Museum Quarter is dubbed Vienna’s “urban living room.”

The district is a cluster of old master and contemporary art collections in a “culture plaza” teeming with shops and cafes. It’s on the site of the old Hapsburg Stables. The Museumsquarter galleries are surrounded by the edgy Street Art Passage, for fans of graffiti.

There’s a lot to see here, if you’re a culture vulture. But you’ll have to choose, unless you want to camp out there for days.

I’m rather partial to the Leopold Museum , with its collection of Art Nouveau and Expressionist masterpieces from Egon Schiele and Gustave Klimt.

Another Vienna museum that I fancy is the Sigmund Freud Museum . Vienna was home to the godfather of psychoanalysis. Housed in his former residence, the museum explores Freud’s life and work. It’s a quirky and fascinating hidden gem in Vienna.

If you’re a Beethoven fan (and who isn’t?), Vienna is full of Beethoven sites . If you want to see and feel Beethoven’s ghost, head to the Beethoven Museum on the city outskirts. This tiny museum is superb and packed with Beethoven trivia.

4. Attend A Christmas Concert

To music lovers, Vienna is the musical capital of the world, home to Mozart’s Cosi Fan Tutti and Strauss’ the Blue Danube Waltz . More famous composers have lived in Vienna than any other city — Mozart, Beethoven, Joseph Hayden, Franz Schubert, Antonio Vivalidi, and Johann Strauss.

A cluster of these musicians are buried in Central Cemetery , and you can pay your respects.

During the Christmas season, concerts take place all over Vienna. You’ll find some of the most classic pieces being performed in beautiful concert venues.

Here are some good options for the musically inclined:

Mozart and Strauss at the Golden Hall

The Golden Hall concert features select works by Mozart and Strauss performed by the Mozart Orchestra of Vienna. The performers dress in period perfect Baroque costumes. You can literally relive Vienna’s musical past up close and personal. 

Vivaldi’s Four Seasons in Karlskirche

Vivaldi is beloved for The Four Seasons , his most famous piece. The Karlskirche concert features a selection from each season, with a little Mozart and Bach music spritzed in for good measure.

As a bonus, you can visit the Christmas market for a post concert snack or drink.

Vienna Hofburg Orchestra in the Hofburg Palace

The Vienna Hofburg Orchestra performs in the magnificent halls of the Hofburg Palace. Their concerts combine orchestra musicians and vocal soloists.

Each year, on December 25 and 26, the orchestra hosts Christmas concerts featuring popular music by Strauss and opera arias and duets by Mozart. The Hofburg Orchestra also performs at the Vienna Staatsoper, the Vienna Opera House.

Classical Ensemble at St. Peter’s Church

Winter in Vienna is a perfect time to visit the stunning 400 year old Baroque church, St. Peter’s Church, and attend a concert . The church hosts an intimate and inexpensive ensemble concert playing traditional pieces.

Experience an Opera at the Staatsoper

One of the world’s most stunning opera houses, the Vienna Opera House, is a must see site in Vienna. Dating from 1869, it’s a magnificent and storied building. The opera house has played host to some of the world’s best singers and conductors, such as Maria Callas and Luciano Pavarotti.

You can take a 40 minute guided tour of the sumptuous palace several times a day. Be sure to check the website for times. Or book tickets to see an opera here .

If you want to splurge, buy tickets for the Vienna Opera Ball in February.

You can dance away the night in the elegant ballroom, stroll through the opera house admiring the sumptuous decor and 19th century frescos, and enjoy the various music offerings.

The Vienna Philharmonic

The Vienna Philharmonic is one of the world’s best orchestras, performing in the Palais Auersperg . The Philharmonic has been performing live since 1842. Its New Year’s Eve concert at the Hofburg Palace is an annual tradition.

5. Hit the Christmas Markets

Nothing screams winter in Vienna quite like Christmas markets. Christmas Markets are an ancient medieval tradition in Vienna. The first ever Christmas Market was held in 1294.

Today, Vienna has a plethora of Christmas Markets, each with its own personality and more beautiful than you can imagine. They’re like cozy villages within a big city.

Be sure to bring cash to the markets. Most stands don’t accept cards. The markets are generally open from mid November to Christmas or New Years.

You can shop for fine Christmas crafts, enjoy the wafting smell of delicious foods, and indulge in the many culinary delights — gingerbread, wiener schnitzel, sausage, roasted chestnuts, roasted dumpling, filled doughnuts, or apple strudel.

>>> Click here for a tour of the Christmas markets

There are over 20 formal Christmas markets during winter in Vienna. Here’s a sampling of the best ones:

Christkindlmarkt on the Rathausplatz

This is the biggest, liveliest, and most decorated Christmas Market in Vienna, with a real wow factor. Expect plenty of crowds here.

But it’s worth it for the breathtaking backdrop of the City Hall. At night, the lights glimmer, a sparkling advent arch welcomes you, and you’ll see Vienna’s largest Christmas tree.

Weihnachtsmarkt am Spittelberg

Unlike most markets, Spittelberg is an intimate market tucked away in a bohemian neighborhood. It’s set up on several streets with quaint cobbled lanes and Beidermeier townhouses.

You’ll find local merchants selling beautiful handmade items, including Gustav Klimt inspired crafts.

Karlsplatz Art Advent

This upscale market is smack in front of Austria’s most beautiful Baroque church, Karlskirche. The food is organic and the crafts on display are selected by a panel of rigorous judges. There’s also hay bales, a petting zoo, and an amazing Raclette stand.

Altwiener Christkindlmarkt on the Freyung  

Dating back to 1772, Freyung is the oldest Christmas Market in Vienna, set in a triangular cobblestone square in the heart of the city. It also has the distinction of being one of the most authentic markets.

You can shop, eat, and drink amidst seasonal music. The back row of stalls sport a nativity scene painted by Josef Ritter von Fuhrich.

Weihnachts Mark Am Hof

The Am Hof Christmas Market is located in a central square with historic buildings and a column dedicated to the Virgin Mary. It has scrumptious food, a champagne bar, and high quality jury-selected handmade goods.

Weihnachtsdorf in Maria Theresian Platz  

Between the Kunsthistorisches Museum and the Naturhistorisches Museum, this is another relatively uncrowded market. It’s open longer than most. It turns turns into a New Year’s Market just after Christmas. Here’s where you can sip a traditional Vienna Christmas Market drink, Mozart Punsch.

Weihnachtsmarkt Stephansplatz

Located at the base of the Vienna’s Gothic St. Stephens Cathedral in the heart of Vienna is the Stephansplatz Christmas Market. The market is tiny, but lovely and centrally located near other markets. Glittering stalls wrap around the cathedral like a Christmas wreath.

Winter Market on Riesenradplatz

This market is located in the Prater Amusement Park. You can enjoy live music as you take a twirl on the the Riesenrad Ferris Wheel Plus. The market is open into January, so you can still get your Christmas Market fix well after New Year’s.

Belvedere Palace Christmas Village

If you love palaces and art, it’s worth the trek by tram/walk/taxi to the Belvedere Palace Christmas Village, right on the palace grounds.

Beautiful at night with the palace as a backdrop, the market is relatively small and authentic. You’ll find traditional handcrafted items and can sample a gooey Raclette.

6. Ice Skating at the Eistram

In winter in Vienna, there are ice rinks set up all over the city. Some are installed against magnificent backdrops.

The most famous one is Vienna Ice World in front of City Hall. From January to March, the Eistraum transforms the area into an ice skating rink. It’s a massive 8500 ice space, where you can skate to the music of Strauss on multi-levels.

7. Cold? Indulge in Vienna’s Coffee Cafe Culture

Vienna is serious about its coffee culture. Vienna has a long history of inventing unique coffee drinks and pioneering coffee shop culture. The first coffee house in Europe opened in Vienna in 1684.

Vienna’s coffee shops are a far cry from Starbucks. They’re opulently decorated formal spaces.

You can sink onto a damask couch and linger over coffee and a pastry, which will be served on a silver tray by a starchy uniformed waiter. It’s a uniquely Viennese experience.

There’s also a wide variety of coffee drinks that are unique to Vienna. The most popular is Vienna Coffee. It’s a cream based coffee created by infusing two shots of espresso with whipped cream, topped with whipped cream and chocolate. 

Cafe Central is one of Vienna’s most famous coffee shops, once frequented by Freud and Trotsky. It’s traditional in style, with stunning architecture and deletable Viennese cuisine, homemade cakes, and pastries.

This place has historical roots as a legendary literati cafe, which counted Arthur Schnitzler, Peter Altenberg, and Adolf Loos among its frequent patrons. Everything about the place oozes sophistication and class.

Demel is is the ultimate Viennese chocolate shop, where choco-dreams come true. The pastry shop and cafe even boasts the title of Purveyor to the Imperial and Royal Court.

The shop is on the first floor and cafe on the second floor. It’s the perfect place to buy Art Nouveau boxes of chocolate souvenirs to bring home.

Across from the Vienna Opera House, you can splurge on Vienna’s most iconic dessert, the Sacher Torte, at the historic Cafe Sacher . The torte consists of two layers of dense chocolate sponge cake filled with a slice of apricot, which is then covered with chocolate ganache and a dollop of whip cream.

Cafe Sacher earns its reputation. It exudes old school luxury, with smoked mirrors, chandeliers, and perfectly dressed Viennese butlers set against red interiors.

>>> Click here to book a coffee tour experience

8. Huddle in St. Stephens’ Cathedral and Climb A Tower

Right in the heart of historic Vienna, you’ll find the showy Romanesque-Gothic St. Stephens Cathedral. It’s Vienna’s defining landmark. You can’t miss it. Its most distinctive feature is its gaudy multicolor tiled roof, which looks glorious in the sunshine.

Both towers of the cathedral are open to the public and can be climbed for a fee. The south tower is high and affords the best views of the city (and the exquisite roof). That’s the one I chose.

The interior of St. Stephens is not as eye catching as the exterior to my mind, rather gloomy. But its three nave design is nonetheless impressive to behold.

>>> Click here to book a cathedral ticket

9. Celebrate New Years Eve in Vienna

The Viennese enjoy their New Years Eve celebrations.

There are fireworks in front of City Hall and at the Prater at midnight. There’s a ball at the Hofburg Palace. And the bell of St. Stephen’s clangs at the stroke of midnight.

The Silversterpfad is Vienna’s “New Year’s Eve Trail” that runs from the afternoon of December 31 to the wee hours of January 1. You’ll find temporary stages with live performances, waltz classes, music, and more.

Tips for Visiting Vienna in Winter

There are some things you should know about making a winter visit to Vienna.

1. Austrians celebrate the Christmas holiday on Christmas Eve. So if you arrive on Christmas Eve, expect Vienna to be mostly shut down, with empty streets and closed Christmas markets.

2. Many Viennese restaurants are closed from Christmas to New Years. Check before you go. Or plan on eating at the Christmas markets.

3. Shops in Vienna are closed every Sunday year round. Some larger stores are open in the mornings. But they all close between Christmas and New Years.

4. Many attractions have shorter opening hours in the winter, often closing at sunset. So be sure to check the winter hours online.

5. Vienna will be cold in the winter, around 0 celsius. Bring waterproof shoes, warm clothes, and plan on wearing layers.

6. Vienna is fairly walkable. But if you plan to use the trams or trains, buy a Vienna City Card for your trip. The card works on all types of transportation and is a money saver, also giving you discounts on what can be hefty museum entry fees.

7. Don’t buy tickets to musicals or other attractions on the street. It’s better to purchase them from the venue directly to avoid scams or overpriced bad seats.

I hope you’ve enjoyed my guide to the best things to do and see in winter in Vienna. Here are some of my other Austria guides you might enjoy:

• 3 Day itinerary for Vienna
• Guide to the Belvedere Palace
• Gustav Klimt Guide to Vienna
• Must See Sites Along the Danube River
• Guide to Wachau Valley
• Guide to UNESCO-Listed Melk Abbey
• Guide to Vienna’s Empress Sisi Museum
• Beethoven Guide to Vienna

f you’d like to visit Vienna in the winter, pin it for later.

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Last Updated on October 2, 2023 by Leslie Livingston

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Things to do in Vienna in December

Vienna City Hall (Rathaus) during the holidays

Vienna may be famous for its seasonal fog, but the Viennese truly thrive on chasing away the winter chill with food, drink, and entertainment that makes it one of the most festive cities to visit toward the end of the year. If you pass through Vienna during the holidays, here are a few of our favorite things to look for: 

Winter in Vienna's Museum Quarter

From November 5 to December 23, Vienna’s Museum Quarter (Museumsquartier) is transformed into a winter wonderland, with six ice pavilions, a curling lane and audio-visual installations. We like to kick off our museum explorations with our Kunsthistorisches Museum Crash Course , putting the museum’s nearly seven millenia of art into the broader context of the Hapsburgs rule and its greater symbolism for imperial Austria the company of an art historian like Alexa. After the tour, we’ll round out this seasonal dose of culture with local punch specialties to keep us warm while meandering through the MQ’s other various venues, including the mumok (museum moderner kunst), Kunsthalle Wien, the Leopold, and the Architecture Center (Architekturzentrum Wien). 

Vienna Holiday Food and Drink

Vienna is in wine country, and in the colder months there are several potent, wine-based brews to warm you to your toes. The first of these, seasonally speaking, is Sturm —a bubbly wine made from the first harvest of the year and appearing in September in both red and white varieties. Despite its somewhat foreboding name—”sturm” means “storm,” a seeming caution against over-imbibing—it’s actually lower in alcohol than a typical wine. The best place to swill a bit down is in any of the numerous Viennese Heurigen —small wineries that, since being licensed by the emperor in the 18th century, have been serving their own homegrown vintages. There are Heurigen in many of the outlying districts of the city. 

Vienna Christmas Markets

Ice Skating in Vienna

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Travel Blog

Winter in Vienna, Austria – 15 Amazing Things to Do

Are you looking for the best things to do in Vienna in Winter? Then I got you covered!

Vienna is nothing short of a magical place during winter times. Christmas markets, horse carriages, and stunning fairy lights everywhere light up the city during the most wonderful time of the year.

Winter in Vienna, Austria is a special season you do not want to miss. There are many amazing things you can not only do in Vienna in December – but during the entire winter season.

It can be hard to find out about the most magical things to do with so many choices out there.

Luckily for you, I have lived the first 27 years of my life in Austria and know all the ins and outs of Vienna.

To make your trip to Vienna just perfect I have created the ultimate Vienna in winter guide.

Let’s get to it.

Table of Contents

Why visit vienna in winter, best time to go to vienna in winter, 1. visit the christmas markets in vienna, 2. take a horse carriage ride through vienna, things to do in schönbrunn in winter, schönbrunn christmas market, how to get to schönbrunn castle, belvedere in winter, how to get to the belvedere, how to get to the hofburg, 6. explore the spanish riding school of vienna, 7. saint stephens cathedral, 8. take a walking tour through the city center, 9. take a day trip to hallstatt, 10. visit a concert, 11. go to a fabulous ball, 12. go ice skating at the vienna eistraum, 13. go to the vienna opera, 14. get a bird’s eye view of vienna, 15. participate in austrian christmas traditions, christmas market on the rathausplatz (town hall square), altwiener christkindlmarkt am freyung, weihnachtsmarkt at the maria theresien platz, adventmarkt at the karlskirche, weihnachtsmarkt stephansplatz, what to eat in vienna in winter, basic info to know before visiting vienna in winter, vienna christmas bucket list of things to do, steigenberger hotel herrenhof, le meridien vienna, what to pack for winter in vienna, conclusion: winter in vienna, faq: winter in vienna, about the author.

This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases at no additional cost to you. Read my  disclaimer  for further information.

In my opinion, Vienna is the perfect destination year-round for a city trip. But there is a certain charm to visiting Vienna in winter, with Christmas lights everywhere and with some luck even a bit of snow on the charming buildings from our Imperial history.

For me, I enjoyed visiting the historic castles from Imperial times, strolling through the museums, and learning about Austria’s interesting history. This is especially a great idea for visiting Austria in winter because it can get quite cold if you stay outside too long.

If you are looking for something more glamorous to do in Vienna, keep in mind that the ball season in Vienna will also be in full swing at this time! What an amazing and special experience!

Another amazing thing about visiting Vienna in December is the Christmas markets all over town. If you are not yet quite sure what to do during your city trip in Vienna in winter, keep on reading and find my favorite activities, museums, tours, and Christmas markets.

Weather in Vienna in Winter

I have written an in-depth post about the best time to go to Vienna , so check that out for more information.

• Temperature : In December, the average daytime temperature ranges from -1°C (30°F) to 4°C (39°F), with nighttime temperatures dropping to around -5°C (23°F) to 0°C (32°F).
• Snowfall : Snowfall is quite frequent in December, and you can even expect a snowy landscape on a few days during this month.
• Temperature : January is the coldest month in Vienna. The average daytime temperatures range from -2°C (28°F) to 2°C (36°F), with nighttime temperatures dropping further to around -7°C (19°F) to -3°C (27°F).
• Snowfall : January typically sees a good amount of snowfall, and the city can be covered in a blanket of snow. Be prepared for snowy and icy conditions during this month.
• Temperature : In February, temperatures start to gradually rise, but it remains quite cold. The average daytime temperatures range from -1°C (30°F) to 5°C (41°F), with nighttime temperatures ranging from -6°C (21°F) to 0°C (32°F).
• Snowfall: Snowfall continues into February, although it may start to decrease towards the end of the month. However, snow cover is still common during this time.

Do I need Travel Insurance for Vienna? Yes, Travel Insurance is always recommended. While Vienna is not unsafe per se, it is necessary to have Travel Insurance in case of sickness or accidents. EKTA offers worldwide coverage at amazing prices – without any hidden fees or clauses.

As you have just seen, weather-wise December is the most comfortable month to visit Vienna in Winter. It is also a great time to see the Christmas markets and experience the city in full cheer.

Sadly, December is also the most expensive month to go.

If budget is an issue, I suggest going in January or February. Alternatively, you can go in November if you still want to go before Christmas.

Things to Do in Vienna in Winter

Vienna’s Christmas markets are famous all over the world. Especially the big market with the ice skating rink in front of the Town Hall is spectacular. Christmas Markets are a must-do in Vienna in winter.

At the beginning of Advent times, many different smaller and bigger markets open up all over town. Small chalets sell hot mulled wine, traditional arts and crafts, and delicious typical Austrian street food.

Visiting the Christmas markets is definitely a MUST if you come to Vienna in December. For a detailed list of my favorite Christmas markets in Vienna keep on reading.

Just like many years ago the empress of Austria, Sisi, rode through the city on a horse carriage, you can also do that today.

The famous so-called Fiakers are an integral part of Vienna. Taking the ride in winter is extra special because you can cuddle in a warm fuzzy blanket with your loved one while driving through the city alongside the Christmas decorations.

There are some things you must ensure before you take your carriage ride. The carriage provider must be registered with the authorities. Also, make sure that he seems reputable and that the horses are taken good care of and are in good shape. In summer, they are not permitted to offer rides during very high temperatures.

We booked our ride with the Fiaker Paul company and we absolutely loved it. We were picked up at noon on the Michaelerplatz and on our 40-minute ride, we passed all major sights and Christmas markets. Our operator was very friendly and offered to take pictures with the horses afterward.

A romantic horse carriage ride is the best thing to do in Vienna at Christmas.

3. Visit Schönbrunn Palace in Winter

Schönbrunn is one of the most famous palaces in Austria from the imperial times.

Our beloved Empress Sisi used this castle as her summer residence for many years. Nowadays the palace is especially famous for being home to one of the biggest zoos in Europe.

However, Schönbrunn is so much more than just the zoo (even though it is always worth a visit as well!). By buying the Winter Pass to Schönbrunn, you can tour the castle itself and experience the grandeur of the imperial home.

It also offers access to the desert house and the house of the tropics.

A great thing to do during winter in Vienna is to walk behind Schönbrunn Castle in the Schönbrunn Gardens.

If you are a good walker, you can head up to the Gloriette and enjoy an amazing view over Vienna. In summer, the gardens are super crowded, so we preferred going in winter. The best thing is, this is totally free.

On your way out, make sure to stop by the cafe in the castle. They offer many traditional Austrian dishes, such as Apple Strudel and Kaiserschmarrn in an authentic atmosphere. You can even participate in a Strudel Workshop if you register early enough.

If you are visiting Schönbrunn, Vienna in December, you can also experience the amazing Christmas market in front of the castle.

This was one of my favorite Christmas markets in Vienna, and we bought some lovely homemade crafts there.

After Christmas, the market is still open for a couple of days and is called a New Year market. This is a lovely Christmas market to visit during winter in Vienna.

Sadly, Schönbrunn is a little bit outside the inner city, so you need to take the green subway line (U4) towards Hütteldorf and exit at Schönbrunn.

You can also take the car since there is plenty of parking space available.

4. Visit the Belvedere

The Belvedere Castle is one of the most famous museums in Vienna. It hosts an amazing collection of art.

Amongst other things, you can see the famous Kiss from Gustav Klimt in the Belvedere.

Spread out over three different castles, there are many different expositions for you to see. If you are not a great lover of art, the castles and the gardens themselves are still worth a visit.

In Advent times, the Belvedere hosts an exceptional Christmas market, called Christmas Village.

The motto is baroque Christmas ambiance in an elegant design. My favorite things about it were the beautiful stars that illuminated the pond in front of the castle.

The market is open until the second Christmas day. This is definitely an amazing thing to do in Vienna in December.

The good news is, that the Belvedere palaces and gardens are relatively easy to get to.

The Belvedere is located fairly central, so quick to reach – even on foot from the center if you don’t mind a bit of a walk.

Take the U1 subway and exit at Hauptbahnhof – from there, it is a 10-minute walk.

5. Hofburg – Sisi Museum

One of my favorite museums in Vienna is the Sisi Museum in the Hofburg. The Hofburg Museum owns a collection of former personal belongings of the famous empress as well as most of her jewelry.

You can tour the old apartments of the empress and learn so much about Austria’s history and the misunderstood empress. Many of Sisis poems are displayed in the museum – and you can get a feel of what kind of person she used to be.

This is one of the best things to do in winter in Vienna, Austria.

Public transport lines take you directly to the Hofburg

Underground:  U3 (orange), alight at Herrengasse

The Spanish riding school (Spanische Hofreitschule) is dedicated to training the famous Austrian Lipizzaner horses in the art of classical dressage. The performances, that are open to the public, are quite legendary.

It is also called the Ballet of Stallions because they put on performances of traditional Viennese music. The Spanish riding school is located on the Michaelerplatz 1, right in the city center of Vienna, and can easily be reached by foot.

This is definitely one of the places you must see in winter in Vienna, Austria.

St. Stephen’s Cathedral is the mother church of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Vienna and the seat of the Archbishop of Vienna.

This is one of the most beautiful and sacred churches in the world. You can take a guided tour and learn all about the history of the beautiful landmark.

Visiting the St. Stephens Cathedral in winter is even more special because there is also a Christmas market right outside the church.

Also, during winter times special Christmas concerts are being hosted in the cathedral. This is an amazingly beautiful thing to do during December in Vienna.

A guided walking tour through the city center is a great way to explore the fabulous buildings with some historical and cultural information.

Here are my favorite guided walking tours through Vienna:

• Vienna City Center Small-Group Walking Tour (2 hours 30 minutes) – 🤩 5/5 Stars (650 Reviews)
• Vienna’s Highlights – Food, Coffee and Market Walking Experience (6 hours) – 🤩 5/5 Stars ( 678 Reviews)
• Pastry & Dessert Food Tour Vienna (3 hours 30 minutes) – 🤩 5/5 Stars (151 Reviews)
• Vienna At First Glance – Private Walking Tour (3 hours) – 🤩 5/5 Stars (36 Reviews)

Hallstatt is one of the oldest villages in Europe and is always worth a visit.

It is located on the Hallstatt lake, and nestled in between stunning mountain ranges. Hallstatt in summer is great – but Hallstatt in winter is especially beautiful. Christmas markets fill up the town square and the snow-covered mountains create a stunning backdrop.

Hallstatt is about two hours of driving away from Vienna. You can take an organized tour to Hallstatt and spend the day there.

Another great area for a day trip from Vienna is Styria, Austria, and its fabulous lakes, mountains, and spas.

Here are my favorite day trips to Hallstatt from Vienna:

• Private Day Tour of Hallstatt, Salzburg, and Stift Melk from Vienna – 🤩 5/5 Stars (51 Reviews)
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The yearly Neujahrskonzert (New Year’s Concert ) is one of the most beloved traditions in Vienna in winter.

The classical music concert is given by the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra on the morning of New Year’s Day.

They mainly play music from Austrian composers, such as Bach and Mozart. It is broadcast all over the world and has about 50 million viewers each year.

It is quite hard to get tickets to the New Year’s Concert due to the high demand. Make sure to join in the raffle between 02 February and 28 February for a chance to visit the concert in the coming year.

If you are not lucky enough to snatch a ticket to the New Year’s Concert, no need to worry. Throughout the Christmas period, there are many classical music concerts in St. Stephen’s Cathedral or in other historical settings:

• Mozart and Strauss at the Golden Hall
• Vivaldi’s Four Seasons in Karlskirche
• Vienna Hofburg Orchestra in the Hofburg Palace
• Classic Ensemble Vienna in St. Peter’s Church
• The Vienna Philharmonic  also plays concerts aside from the traditional New Year’s Concert. Make sure to check the schedule before your visit.

The Vienna Ball Season is famous all over the world for its extravagance and class.

The highlight of the Vienna Ball Season each year is without a doubt the Vienna Opera Ball (Wiener Opernball).

The 5000 tickets to the Vienna Opera Ball are usually snatched up by international celebrities and high society.

Vienna dancing schools perform classical pieces, a polonaise with stunning debutantes, and lovely ballet interpretations.

Since it is very hard to get tickets for the Vienna Opera Ball, you might have to settle for a different ball throughout the winter in Vienna.

Luckily, many different professions and organizations have a yearly ball that you can attend.

Make sure to bring some fancy formal clothes if you want to attend a ball.

From January until March, the Vienna Ice Dream turns the town hall square into a beautiful ice skating rink.

The ice skating area covers about 8,500 m2. If you are looking for a romantic date in Winter in Vienna – this is it.

You can rent ice skates on-site for every taste and budget.

Of course, there is plenty of opportunity to warm up with a hot glass of punch afterward.

Visiting the Vienna Opera for a performance is one of the fanciest things you can do in Vienna in Winter.

They have live performances almost every day. Make sure to check the season’s program for availability and schedule.

The Vienna Opera (Wiener Staatsoper) offers beautiful ballets, impressive operas, and classical concerts. There is surely something for every taste.

My favorite opera in Vienna is “The Magical Flute” – we always went there as a field trip from school.

The dress code is pretty formal, so make sure to dress appropriately.

There are a couple of stunning spots in Vienna that offer an amazing view over the city and the hopefully snow-covered roofs.

One of the most famous viewpoints in Vienna is on top of St. Stephen’s Cathedral. You can climb all of the 343 steps up to the top – but the view is worth it.

If you don’t feel like walking, you still have options:

• Take the Ferris Wheel in the Vienna Prater (go around sunset time for a stunning view)
• Make a dinner reservation at 57 Restaurant in Melia Vienna
• Go up the Donauturm (Danube Tower)
• Hike up the Leopoldsberg
• Have a cocktail at the 25 hours Hotel Rooftop Bar

My favorite one of these Viewpoints is the Ferris Wheel. It is one of the oldest Ferris Wheels in the world, it was built back in 1897.

You can book a normal ticket or reserve a special gondola just for you and your loved one. You can even make reservations for a full-blown Viennese gourmet meal in one of the gondolas.

Austria has a wide variety of Christmas traditions that are heavily celebrated all over the country.

There are small differences in the Christmas traditions between the different states of Austria, but the main idea is the same.

Some of my favorite things to do in Austria at Christmas are:

• Drinking hot mulled wine (Glühwein) at the Christmas markets
• Lighting a candle on the Advent wreath every Sunday before Christmas
• Opening a door every day on the Advent calendar on the 24 days before Christmas
• Go to Christmas mass on Christmas Eve (24th of December)
• Baking traditional Austrian Christmas cookies
• Austria does not believe in Santa Claus (we have the Christkind, that is sort of a small angel)
• Decorate the Christmas Tree with beautiful ornaments

Christmas Markets in Vienna

Each and every Christmas market in Vienna has a unique charm to it.

They are usually quite close together, set up on different squares and cute little spots. You can visit multiple Christmas markets after each other.

Some of the markets are big and commercialized (like the one on Town Hall Square), while others are small and intimate.

Find below my favorite Christmas Markets in Vienna.

The Rathausplatz in Vienna is one of the most important and impressive squares in all of Vienna.

The size, the design, and the architecture are quite stunning. During Christmas times, the Rathausplatz is home to the biggest Christmas market in Vienna, Austria.

This is definitely one of the best things to do in Vienna in December. You can even go ice skating on the big rink in front of the Town Hall. The entrance to the Christmas market is free, however, you need to pay for special activities.

• How to get there: U-Bahn Line 1 (Rathausplatz) or Line 2 (Parlament)

The Freyung Christkindlmarkt is one of the oldest Christmas markets in Vienna. It is actually dating back to 1772.

This is one of the more authentic and traditional Christmas Markets in Vienna. It is definitely worth a visit.

You can find chalets with lots of arts and crafts and traditional Viennese snacks and drinks on the market. There are also some philanthropic chalets that support good causes.

The market is open daily from 10:00 am until 09:00 pm

• How to get there: U-Bahn U3 Station Herrengasse and U2 Station Schottentor

The Christmas Market on the Maria Theresien Platz is very special in many ways.

The market is set up in front of the two most famous Viennese Museums: The Kunsthistorisches Museum and the Naturhistorisches Museum.

These two buildings are quite special, they were built in exact symmetry to each other.

You can find lots of chalets offering all the typical Christmas market goods on this market.

• How to get there: U-Bahn U3 Station Volkstheater

As mentioned earlier, the Schönbrunn Palace hosts a Christmas Market as well each year.

The chalets are set up right in front of the castle, creating a beautiful atmosphere.

It is one of the bigger Christmas markets in Vienna, but still very charming. A huge tree in the middle of the square creates a festive atmosphere.

Make sure to come with an empty stomach, there are so many delicious snack huts at this Christmas market.

• How to get there: U-Bahn U4 Station Schönbrunn

The Karlskirche is one of the most impressive churches in Vienna. Beautiful Christmas decorations are set up outside the church each year.

This is the venue of another beautiful Vienna Christmas market.

This Christmas market is famous for its arts and crafts stalls. For children there are even some displays set up, so they can watch the artists live.

Open daily from 12:00 pm until 8:00 pm

• How to get there: U-Bahn U1 and U4 Station Karlsplatz

This beautiful Christmas market is located at the base of the St. Stephens Cathedral.

The market is not huge, but very beautiful. And the majestic church in the background is doing the rest.

Keep in mind that this is one of the busiest Christmas Markets in Vienna.

TIP : If you head over from here to the Shopping Street Am Graben you can see some beautiful Christmas decorations.

• How to get there: U-Bahn U1 and U3 Station Stephansplatz

As an Austrian, I am very proud of our cuisine. Especially in winter, you can eat many delicious treats and dishes in Austria.

Here are some of my favorite treats you need to try in Vienna in Winter:

• Wiener Schnitzel: Breaded and fried veal steak, typically served with potato salad or fries. This is Austrias Number 1 national dish – so you absolutely need to try it.
• Sacher Torte: A rich chocolate cake with layers of apricot jam, often enjoyed with a cup of coffee. The only place in Vienna that sells the original Sacher Cake is the Café Sacher!
• Apfelstrudel : The apple strudel is a classic Viennese pastry made with layers of dough filled with spiced apples, raisins, and cinnamon. Super delicious with vanilla sauce.
• Maroni (Roasted Chestnuts): Warm, roasted chestnuts sold at street stands, offering a comforting winter snack. You can buy them at every Christmas market and carry the small bag with you on a walk.
• Lebkuchen : Traditional gingerbread cookies, often shaped into hearts or other festive designs and decorated with icing. You can also buy them at the Christmas markets. They make for an excellent souvenir as well.
• Bratkartoffeln : Pan-fried potatoes with onions and bacon, a hearty and delicious dish usually served on the Christmas markets
• Glühwein : Hot and spiced mulled wine! It is typically red wine heated with spices like cinnamon, cloves, and orange zest, perfect for warming up at the Christmas markets. They also serve it made from white wine or other drinks
• Punsch : A hot punch made with a combination of fruit juices, spices, and sometimes alcohol, another popular drink at the Christmas markets.
• Würstel (Vienna Sausages): Enjoy a variety of sausages like Frankfurters or Käsekrainer served with mustard and bread rolls. You can grab them at the Christmas markets to go.
• Stollen : A traditional German fruitcake with candied fruits, nuts, and spices, often enjoyed during the holiday season and sold at the Christmas markets
• Germknödel : A fluffy yeast dumpling filled with plum jam, topped with melted butter, powdered sugar, and poppy seeds. Sometimes they serve it swimming in vanilla sauce – which makes it extra special.
• Vanillekipferl : Crescent-shaped almond cookies dusted with powdered sugar, a popular Christmas treat in Vienna
• Kaiserschmarrn : Kaiserschmarrn is made from pancake dough. But instead of serving the full pancake, they rip it into small pieces and serve it with apple sauce, cranberries, or apricot jam.

• Tipping : It is very common to tip in Austria. If the service is well, you can give anything from 5 % – 15 %. 20 %, like in the US is not expected.
• Cash : Make sure to get some cash from the ATM’s. Austria is still very much a cash country, you can’t expect to pay with a card everywhere.
• How to get around Vienna: in the city center, walking is your best friend. Most areas are pedestrian-only, so that is the best way to get around. Otherwise, I suggest taking the subway, it is a cheap and convenient way to get around. You can buy the ViennaCard for discounted tickets.
• Austria’s stores are closed on Sundays.
• Christmas is celebrated on the 24th of December, but stores are open until noon usually. The 25th and 26th are National Holidays as well. Many restaurants are closed during that time
• People in Austria are bad at English (sad to say). Learn a couple of words in German to be safe.
• Austrians are extremely punctual and orderly . If you reserve a table or a slot for something, make sure to be on time and have your papers in order.

Where to Stay in Vienna in Winter and for Christmas

Luckily, we have found the most perfect hotels for a cozy winter in Vienna. The most important thing about finding a great hotel in Vienna is the location.

If you don’t want to spend endless time in the subway or wander around the scary-looking outskirts of the city, I suggest staying central.

We have stayed in many places all around town and these two are our absolute favorite hotels in Vienna:

Steigenberger Hotel Herrenhof is located right on the most expensive and historic street in Vienna, the Herrengasse. It is the best hotel in Vienna to stay for the Christmas market because of its location.

The impressive 5-star hotel was constructed in 1913 and is located only a few steps away from the most famous buildings in Vienna. We have enjoyed the proximity of all major sights and Christmas markets. You can conveniently reach everything by walking.

The rooms are fabulous and super spacious, decorated in a 21st-century Art-Deco style. We enjoyed the cozy beds and our two (!) balconies overlooking the historic quarters of Vienna.

We felt especially spoiled with a fully stocked complimentary mini-bar and a pillow menu. These small gestures really make all the difference in my opinion.

Le Meridien is a design hotel located right next to the Opera House of Vienna.

It is ideally situated in the heart of Vienna, close to major shopping streets and fabulous historic buildings. The rooms are spacious and modern. The 5-Star-Hotel’s motto is art, design, and culture – and you can feel it in every little detail.

The breakfast consists of an amazing spread and can be taken in a lovingly designed restaurant. You can access the hotel’s own swimming pool as well as the state-of-the-art fitness center. Make sure to visit their own restaurant and bar for a lovely meal and a delicious cocktail.

When packing for winter in Vienna, it’s important to keep in mind the cold temperatures and potential snowfall.

Here’s a list of essential items to pack for your winter in Vienna:

• Warm Clothing: Pack plenty of sweaters, long-sleeved shirts, and thermal layers to keep you warm. Include a mix of lightweight and heavyweight options for layering.
• W inter Coat: Bring a heavy winter coat, ideally one that is waterproof to protect against snow or rain.
• Hat, Gloves, and Scarf: Keep your head, hands, and neck protected from the cold with a warm hat, gloves or mittens, and a cozy scarf.
• Warm Footwear: Bring some sturdy boots with good traction on slippery surfaces. Make sure they are comfortable for walking and warm and cozy.
• Thick Socks: Pack several pairs of thick socks to keep your feet warm and cozy. You can buy lovely wool socks at the Christmas market as well in case you forget.
• Layering Pieces: Bring lightweight sweaters, cardigans, or fleece jackets that can be easily layered for added warmth.
• Jeans or Thick Pants: Opt for jeans or trousers made from thick materials to keep your legs warm. You can also pack thermal leggings or tights to wear under skirts or dresses.
• Warm Accessories: Pack hand warmers or ear muffs
• Winter Accessories: Don’t forget sunglasses to protect your eyes from glare and the sun’s reflection off snow, as well as a small umbrella for unexpected rain or snow showers.
• Indoor Clothing : Include comfortable clothes for indoor activities, such as cozy sweaters, lounge pants, and pajamas. Of course, include some classy outfits if you are planning on attending concerts or the opera

To sum it up, winter is the perfect time to visit Vienna. You have not celebrated Christmas until you have done Christmas in Vienna. I truly hope you liked my list of Vienna things to do in winter.

It is my absolute favorite time of the year to visit Vienna (although Vienna in Summer is also beautiful). Christmas Markets, fairy lights, and stunning trees make the city extra special.

Make sure to pack warm clothing and be prepared for a lot of delicious food.

Looking for more Austria inspiration? Check these:

🇦🇹 Winter in Vienna, Austria – amazing things to do

🇦🇹 Christmas in Austria – the ultimate Bucket List

🇦🇹 A beautiful day in Hallstatt, Austria – winter and summer

🇦🇹 The most beautiful places of Styria, Austria

🇦🇹 How to plan the perfect road trip in Austria

🇦🇹 Vienna in Summer – Amazing Things to Do!

🇦🇹 10 Best Hotels Near Red Bull Ring

🇦🇹 Discover: Hallstatt Christmas Market and Activities in Winter

🇦🇹 Vienna to Hallstatt One Day Trip: Local’s Guide

🇦🇹 One Day in Salzburg Itinerary

🇦🇹 Best Time To Visit Vienna – Local’s Guide

Yes, Vienna is worth visiting in Winter. I would say that winter is the best time to visit Vienna. The city is beautifully decorated and the Christmas markets light up the city. While temperatures might be a little chilly, you can still have a wonderful time in Vienna in Winter.

Yes, Vienna does occasionally have snow in winter. The biggest chance of seeing snow in Vienna is in December, January or February. Since 1953, Vienna has experienced snow at least once per year. So how often does it snow in Vienna, Austria? On average a couple of days per year.

No, Vienna is not too cold in December. While temperatures might dip below freezing point, you can still comfortably walk around with proper clothing. December is a beautiful time to see the Christmas markets and experience some Christmas cheer in Vienna.

I suggest staying for at least three days in Vienna. Vienna has a lot to offer and there are many interesting museums and historical buildings that you can check out. The ideal time to stay in Vienna if you want to see it all is five days.

In December, Austria can be chilly, so dress warmly. Layering is key. Start with thermal clothing, add a sweater or fleece, and top with a waterproof and insulated jacket. Don’t forget a hat, gloves, and a scarf to stay cozy. Comfortable, waterproof boots are essential, especially if you plan to explore snowy areas. Be prepared for cold temperatures and potential snowfall.

In general, Austrians don’t speak English well. But especially in Vienna, many people are used to the tourists and have at least basic knowledge of English. Younger people tend to speak English well.

Vienna, the capital of Austria, has a rich history dating back over 2,000 years. It was originally a Celtic settlement and became a Roman frontier city around 15 BC. Over the centuries, Vienna has been a significant center of culture, politics, and art in Europe. Its official status as a city can be traced to the Roman period, making it well over 2,000 years old.

Yes, Vienna is worth visiting in January, but it’s important to be prepared for the winter weather. Some of the Christmas markets will still be there. In general, the city is more quiet than in December. It is also a lot cheaper to visit Vienna in January.

Yes, Vienna is a highly walkable city, especially in its historic city center. Many of the city’s top attractions, including St. Stephen’s Cathedral, Hofburg Palace, and the Vienna State Opera, are within walking distance of each other. The streets are well-maintained, and there are pedestrian zones, making it easy and enjoyable to explore the city on foot. However, Vienna also has an efficient public transportation system, including trams, buses, and the subway, which can be used to reach destinations that are farther from the city center.

Sabrina is a passionate travel blogger and content creator, based in New Mexico. She spends about half the year traveling to various destinations with her husband.

She provides slow-paced itineraries that focus on quality over quantity. Sabrina wants to help her readers to get more out of their travel experiences – while doing less. Read more.

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THOUGHTFUL TRAVELING

Austria , Central Europe , Europe , Travel Guides , Weekend Escapes · May 11, 2018

A Mini Guide to Visiting Vienna, Austria in December

If you are looking for a great winter holiday destination, I would highly recommend visiting Vienna in December. Yes, it is cold, but the city boasts great Christmas markets and festivals during this time. I visited Vienna in December during peak-Christmas season with my family. Personally, I think it’s a great time of the year to visit – perfect for perusing the famous Christmas markets with a mug of gluhwein (mulled wine) in hand, or enjoying a slice of sacher torte (chocolate cake with apricot jam) at one of the many art-deco coffeehouses in the city. Keep reading on for my mini guide to visiting Vienna, Austria in December!

Related Post : Spending New Year’s Eve in Prague

It’s cold in Vienna during this time of the year, but in a way that’s okay, because otherwise it wouldn’t feel like the holidays. During the day, the streets are still lively and filled with the sounds of Christmas shoppers and the clip-clopping of horse-drawn carriages (yes, you read that right). At night, the streets of the Inner Stadt (old town) are lit with glittering fairy lights.

Why I love Vienna

Where to stay, where to eat.

When I was younger, I loved playing the piano (I still do, although busy and stressful work days make it difficult to find the time). As a child, I would spend hours every week practicing and flipping the pages of music books. I competed in piano competitions, several of them which involved having to give a presentation on a famous composer or piece of music. For one competition, I decided to present on one of my favorite composers Mozart, and ever since then I’ve been fascinated by the city that he called home.  Did you know? Vienna is known to be the “City of Music” and was not only home to Mozart, but several other brilliant composers including Schubert, Haydn, and Brahms.

Related Post : How to Spend Christmas in Budapest

On top of that, one of my favorite songs growing up was the song “Vienna” by Billy Joel. As a self-proclaimed over-achiever and perfectionist, there were times where I felt like Billy Joel had written the song for me…telling me to ‘slow down’ and not rush through life. Vienna was waiting for me guys! Waiting FOR ME!

And so, naturally, making a trip to Vienna was at the top of my bucket list when I moved to Europe, and there was no doubt in my mind that I would love every minute spent there. And I did. Check out my mini guide to Vienna in December below (full disclosure, my version of Vienna is very much a romanticized one).

While in Vienna, we stayed at a B&B called Benediktushaus. I couldn’t recommend this place enough! The rates were reasonable, the rooms were clean and spacious, and the location was conveniently located in the heart of the city. Best of all though, the place had character – Benediktushaus is a working monastery that also runs a guesthouse. It felt so unique to be able to stay in a historical building complex of the abbey.

The only downsides to staying in the monastery were: (1) they didn’t offer TVs or radios in the rooms (which wasn’t a big deal for us, after all, we didn’t travel all the way to Vienna just to watch TV!), and (2) the abbey bells rang early in the morning (again, not a big deal for us early rising travelers, but could be a big deal for late-sleepers).

Inner Stadt

After arriving in Vienna, take some time to get your bearings on the city by wandering Inner Stadt (old town) , with it’s cute confectioner shops and boutique shopping lanes. The first thing I noticed about Vienna was how clean the streets were. The cobblestones were shiny and smooth, and almost looked like they had been individually cleaned and polished!

St. Stephens Cathedral

While in Inner Stadt, make sure to visit St. Stephens Cathedral . My husband always jokes that once you’ve seen a cathedral in Europe, you’ve seen all cathedrals in Europe, and I have to admit that the inside of St. Stephens is not particularly unique. What makes St. Stephens Cathedral special though, is that you can climb to the top balconies and enjoy great views of the city. The cathedral has a beautiful brightly-colored chevron-patterned roof. It’s definitely one of the most unique and impressive rooftops I’ve ever seen.

Rathausplatz

Explore the various Christmas markets around town. The Christkindlmarket at the Rathausplatz (December 25/26 hours: 11 am – 9:30 pm) features over 150 stalls and is Vienna’s largest Christmas market. It’s definitely one of the more impressive Christmas markets I’ve been to!

We spent a few hours roaming the market, snacking on cheesy spaetzle, bratwursts, donuts, and gluhwein. I felt like we picked something up from every stall….it was too hard to resist! I’m still dreaming about that spaetzle…

Vienna State Opera

For more festive fun, the Advent Pleasure Market is another famous Christmas market, and is located near the majestic Vienna State Opera House .  We didn’t have time to make it to a show, but the Vienna State Opera is known to be one of the top opera houses in the world. It’s also the site where the glitzy Vienna Opera Ball takes place ever year.

FUN FACT: The Viennese ‘ball season’ (which runs from November to January) is filled with more than 450 ball events and 2000 hours of dancing!

Schonbrunn Palace

You can’t go to Vienna and not visit the Schonbrunn Palace.  During this time of the year, there’s also a variety of Christmas/New Year’s market stalls located at the front of the Palace. The Schonbrunn Palace is a grand imperial palace and designated UNESCO World Heritage site. It’s one of Vienna’s most important architectural and cultural monuments and attractions. Fun fact – Mozart gave his first performance to the Empress in the Schonbrunn Palace!

The palace features over 1,400 rooms, but only 40 of them are available to the public, each one of them more grand and beautifully decorated than the last. The palace also has several garden areas which offer panoramic views of the palace grounds.

Palace of Justice

The Palace of Justice is home to the Supreme Court of Austria. It’s not a well-known tourist attraction in Vienna and access to the building requires going through a security check (with not-so-pleasant security guards!). However, it’s totally worth visiting because the Palace of Justice offers one of the most impressive interiors in Vienna.

TIP : The Justizcafe is located on the 5th floor of the Palace of Justice. On a clear sunny day, it’s a great place to have an outdoor snack. The views of the city from the terrace are supposedly amazing.

Belvedere Palace

For art history buffs, a can’t-miss attraction in Vienna is Belvedere Palace , a historic palace  that is known for having the largest collection of Gustav Klimt oil paintings.

The most famous painting of them all is ‘The Kiss’ , a colorful and glittery gold portrait of two embracing lovers. The sale of this painting made history. Apparently, the Belevedere paid 25,000 crowns for the painting….prior to that, the highest price paid for a painting in Austria at that time as 500 crowns. ‘The Kiss’ is not likely to be on-sale anytime soon, but for some reference for it’s value, lesser-known pieces by Klimt have been sold for over 100 million each.

Hundertwasserhaus

For something a little different, take a short tram out of the city center to visit  Hundertwasserhaus.   Hundertwasserhaus is a public-housing project with a crazy exterior featuring multi-colored walls, uneven roofs, and mosaic pillars. You can’t go inside (people actually live there!), but the outside has plenty to see and admire. Rumor has it, when the building was built, it caused quite a stir in Vienna since it was such a stark contrast to the surrounding classic architecture. #weirdiscool

Vienna Naschmarkt

The Vienna Naschmarkt is a large outdoor food and produce market. The stalls are not only represented by local Austrian cheese and sausage makers, but also several ethnic food vendors.

While you’re there, check out NENI am Naschmarkt , a hip Israeli/Middle Eastern restaurant that serves up a mean brunch. The hummus there was divine.

Cafe Central

Cafe Central is a famous coffeehouse and a popular place for locals and tourists to gather over coffee and dessert. The interior is beautiful, with tall ceilings and cream-colored arches. Walking into Cafe Central feels like you’ve stepped back into the Golden Age. It’s no surprise that the cafe was often visited by the likes of Freud, Lenin, and Trotsky.

I personally thought that it was a bit too touristy (not to mention VERY expensive), but it’s something to cross off the ‘must-do’ Vienna tourist bucket list. Cafe Sacher Wien is another quintessential Viennese coffeehouse, famous for their original Sacher torte cake (chocolate cake with apricot jam).

TIP : The queues to get into the cafes can get quite long. We visited Cafe Central after dinner assuming the crowds would have died down, but still had to wait in line for 20 minutes. Be prepared to wait, or go early!

Melker Stiftskeller

The cold winter weather in Vienna just begs for a hearty meal of meat….and more meat. And you can’t go to Vienna without trying the famous Wiener Schnitzel. I highly recommend visiting Melker Stiftskeller , an Austrian underground wine cellar and restaurant, featuring local Austrian specialties. The schnitzel was tender and juicy, and the pork knuckle was bigger than the size of my head!

If you’re looking for a break from traditionally-heavy Austrian cuisine, check out Chestnut . This tiny restaurant is located in the heart of the city and offers a unique menu featuring what else….chestnuts! I enjoyed the Chestnut Cream Soup and the Crispy Autumn Salad.

Have questions, comments, or need help planning a trip to Vienna? Leave me a comment below!

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May 18, 2021 at 10:32 am

Thanks for this, I’m considering taking my wife for ger 50th to Vienna for 5 days starting 26th November 2021, so this is really useful. Thanks for the time posting this. Great read!

April 13, 2022 at 12:01 am

Aw thanks! Glad it was useful for you!

December 7, 2019 at 10:03 am

Hi Jessie, Visiting Vienna soon for the Christmas season. Just wanted to say thanks for the great story and advice. Glad I found it! Wonderful pictures too!

December 10, 2019 at 11:41 am

Awesome! Thanks for reaching out and glad it was helpful. Enjoy Vienna!

October 9, 2019 at 8:36 pm

Very helpful. Many thanks. We’ll be there in December. Best Regards Graham & Aileen Scotland

October 20, 2019 at 1:47 pm

Very exciting! Have fun, and glad it was helpful!

August 22, 2019 at 7:13 pm

Hi! Great guide! We will be visiting Vienna this December. Do you remember where in the Naschmarkt you saw the stand with the charcoal cheese and other very colorful cheeses? Thanks!

Hi Jill! Sorry for the delayed response! I don’t actually remember the exact location of the stall unfortunately, but there are a bunch of cheese stalls scattered in different parts of the market that offer similar selection. 🙂 Happy travels and stay warm!

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Vienna in Winter – 25 magical things to do in winter in Vienna, Austria

• January 29, 2024
• Austria , Europe

Vienna is a beautiful city to visit, especially during the winter months! Living in Austria, I have visited Vienna countless times – in all seasons. But Vienna in winter, with its Christmas markets, snow-covered baroque architecture, and fairy lights that illuminate the city, is an experience you don’t want to miss.

Why visit Vienna in winter

Where to stay in vienna in winter, enjoy the festive atmosphere at vienna’s christmas markets, escape winter in the imperial butterfly house, visit schönbrunn palace, wrap up and take a walking tour through the city center, explore masterpieces at belvedere palace, enjoy a concert at st. stephen’s cathedral, see an opera at the vienna state opera, learn about mozart’s life in vienna at the mozart house, visit the albertina museum, learn how to cook schnitzel and apfelstrudel, take a ride on vienna’s ferris wheel, visit the spanish riding school of vienna, indulge in austrian delicacies at naschmarkt, try the austrian winter sport eisstock, experience traditional austrian coffee culture, go ice skating at viennese ice dream, celebrate new year’s eve and dance the traditional waltz, explore empress sissi’s life at hofburg, take a stroll at augarten, experience the angelic voices of the vienna boys’ choir, take a romantic carriage ride, try kaiserschmarrn at demel, take a photo tour of vienna at night, explore vienna’s shopping streets, take a day trip from vienna, winter holidays and events in vienna, does it snow in vienna, how many days in vienna in winter, getting to vienna, getting around vienna, planning a trip to vienna.

There are many amazing things to do in Vienna in winter, from enjoying festive Christmas traditions to indulging in Austrian delicacies or visiting the most famous sights without crowds.

Below, I share with you everything you need to know to plan your perfect winter vacation in Vienna and I tell you which experiences will make your stay even more special.

In a hurry? Book your must-dos in Vienna in winter:

These are the absolute best things to do in Vienna in winter:

Christmas Market Tour Guided walking tour Schonbrunn Palace guided tour St. Stephen’s Cathedral concert Vienna Ferris Wheel

Vienna is a popular tourist destination all year round. But when the temperatures drop, fairy lights and Christmas decorations fill the city with a unique festive atmosphere. Visiting the traditional Christmas markets is one of the top things to do in Vienna at Christmas and is popular with tourists and locals alike. Plus, seeing the city and its baroque architecture covered with fresh snow is a truly magical experience.

Visiting in winter generally brings fewer crowds, which means you won’t need to queue at popular attractions and you can enjoy the historic city center in a more peaceful atmosphere. You’ll also find better deals and more affordable prices for your stay during this time of the year.

On top, there are certain things you can only experience in winter, like the traditional Austrian winter sport Eisstock or the Viennese Ice Dream.

If you’re planning a city trip to Vienna in winter, I recommend staying in Innere Stadt (first district). It’s surrounded by the famous Ringstrasse and home to many of Vienna’s stunning baroque buildings and popular attractions. 

Plus, if you’re in Vienna for Christmas, the Innere Stadt is beautifully decorated and illuminated with fairy lights, creating a festive Christmas atmosphere.

Hotel Sacher Wien

HISTORY & LUXURY

This famous 5-star hotel in Vienna combines timeless elegance with modern comfort and is an all-time favorite.

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Hotel Am Parkring

Located in the highest building on Ringstrasse, this hotel offers modern rooms with the best views over Vienna’s city center.

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Residence Wollzeile

CENTRAL HOME

This spacious and beautifully decorated apartment offers the comfort of home in the heart of the city center, just a stone’s throw away from St. Stephan’s Cathedral.

25 amazing things to do in Vienna in winter

Visiting Vienna’s famous Christmas markets is one of the best things to do in Vienna in December. The big Christmas Market at Rathausplatz next to the ice rink is the most famous of all, but you can find various Christmas markets all over town. 

Small wooden huts decorated with twinkling lights sell traditional mulled wine and local treats as well as handcrafted souvenirs and tree decorations. 

I recommend you visit more than one Christmas market in Vienna since they all have their unique vibe and atmosphere. If you’re unsure where to start, take this Christmas Market Tour and your guide will bring you to the best markets with delicious treats.

Book your adventure: Christmas Market Tour

The Butterfly House is a dedicated room in the Palm House in Burggarten that features a tropical landscape with beautiful water elements, warm temperatures, and is home to a huge variety of freely flying, colorful butterflies. It is the perfect escape from bad weather or when you need a break from winter. 

With a bit of luck, one of the butterflies might even land on your hand, so make sure to bring your camera! It’s best to pre-book your ticket to avoid queueing as it can get quite busy.

Book your adventure: Butterfly House tickets

The Schönbrunn Palace is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Austria’s most famous sights. The Habsburg rulers used to spend their summers in this stunning baroque building.

When visiting Schönbrunn Palace, make sure to plan enough time to explore the spacious gardens, especially in winter when it gets dark early. The gardens surrounding the palace are beautifully sculpted and are my favorite part of Schönbrunn Palace. Take a walk up to the Gloriette, you will be rewarded with an amazing view over Vienna. 

You can maximize your time by taking this guided tour including skip-the-line access to the Palace.

Book your adventure: Schonbrunn Palace guided tour

The best way to explore Vienna’s old town and learn more about its rich history is by joining this guided walking tour On this tour, you will see all the most important sights and learn about Vienna’s imperial history. 

If you prefer to venture off the beaten path, you can discover a different side of Vienna on a walking tour of Vienna’s hidden sights .

Book your adventure: Guided walking tour Vienna’s hidden sights walking tour

Belvedere Palace opened in 1781 as the world’s first public museum and has been the most famous museum in Vienna ever since. Today you can find an impressive art collection including masterpieces by van Gogh and the famous “Kiss” by Gustav Klimt. 

Book this guided tour to discover the famous art collection and the stories behind the individual art pieces. After visiting the gallery, make sure to take a stroll in the gardens surrounding the Belvedere, they are said to be Europe’s most beautiful Baroque gardens and one of my highlights of Vienna.

Book your adventure: Belvedere palace guided tour

St. Stephen’s Cathedral is located in the heart of the city and, with its Gothic architecture, is a well-known landmark of Vienna. This cathedral is stunning and worth a visit all year round. For a small fee, you can climb the 343 steps of the south tower for the best views over the city. 

Make sure to attend a classical concert in the cathedral. You can also find a cozy Christmas market right in front.

Book your adventure: St. Stephen’s Cathedral concert

The Vienna State Opera is one of the leading opera houses in the world and offers beautiful ballet and spectacular opera performances almost daily. Seeing a performance at the Vienna State Opera is one of the best things to do in Vienna in winter in the evening. 

I saw Swan Lake and loved not only the performance but also the atmosphere you get in this beautiful, historic building. Although there is no official dress code in the Vienna State Opera, I’d recommend bringing formal clothing for your visit.

Visiting the Mozart House in Vienna is a must-do experience in Vienna. This museum is dedicated to the life of musical genius Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart in Vienna. 

While Mozart was born and raised in Salzburg, many of his most famous works were composed during his time in the capital. The museum lets you explore Mozart’s apartment and learn more about his persona and how he composed his music. Plus, you get insights into the classical music scene in Vienna at the time of Mozart.

Book your adventure: Tickets for Mozarthaus Vienna with Audio Guide

Visit the Albertina Museum to explore the historic rooms where the Habsburg family used to live and enjoy the permanent exhibition Monet to Picasso. It includes paintings and drawings by Monet, Degas, Goncharova, Chagall, and Kokoschka. There are also several temporary exhibits that change often and include works by old masters and contemporary artists alike.

The museum’s most famous painting is “Young Hare” by Albrecht Dürer, but unfortunately, it is only displayed during special exhibitions as it is very fragile, so make sure to plan accordingly if you’d like to see it. 

Visiting the Albertina Museum is a great thing to do when winter brings freezing temperatures. Make sure to buy your ticket online to save time and avoid waiting in line.

Book your adventure: Albertina Museum tickets

No matter what the season, a trip to Vienna is not complete without a traditional Wiener Schnitzel and Apfelstrudel. Even better, take this hands-on cooking class and learn the secrets of preparing the perfect Schnitzel and authentic apple strudel.

It’s a fun class led by a local chef that allows you to bring the beloved Austrian comfort food into your home kitchen.

Book your adventure: Schnitzel and apple strudel cooking class

The iconic Ferris Wheel is a special landmark of Vienna that is situated in Prater, a popular recreation area. Opened in 1897, it is the oldest Ferris Wheel of its type that is still in operation worldwide.  

Take a ride on Vienna’s Ferris Wheel to enjoy the breathtaking views over Vienna. My favorite time to go for a ride is in winter after dark, when Christmas lights give a unique atmosphere to the city. 

Don’t worry about cold temperatures or wind, the wagons of the Ferris Wheel are fully closed and shield you from the winter weather.

Book your adventure: Vienna Ferris Wheel ride

The Spanish Riding School is famous for training Lipizzaner horses in classical dressage following Renaissance traditions. Only the best horses of Austria’s breeding stables are chosen for the Spanish Riding School and these horses are trained from a young age. 

Make sure to attend a performance at Winter Riding School at Hofburg to see impressive jumps and maneuvers. I found the show very impressive and highly recommend visiting.

Book your adventure: Performance Of The Lipizzans At Spanish Riding School

Naschmarkt is Vienna’s famous open-air market where small stands sell all sorts of meat, fish, cheese, wine, produce, and even pastries. The literal translation of the German word Naschmarkt means “snacking market” and that’s what it is, a market fool of food. 

Naschmarkt is the perfect place to take a food tour and try the traditional dishes and tasty Austrian delicacies. 

Book your adventure: Naschmarkt food tour

Eisstock is a game similar to curling where you let stocks glide over an ice surface. The goal of the game is to make the sticks of your team stop as close as possible to a small wooden cube placed on the other side of the ice surface. It’s a really fun winter sport originating from rural Austria and you should give it a go when visiting Vienna in winter. 

Vienna offers various tracks, you can play Eisstock at Eisstock-Bahn Alte Donau or the Christmas market Ottakring.

Warm up in one of Vienna’s historic coffee houses and experience the traditional Austrian coffee culture. Have a Wiener Melange, the Austrian version of a cappuccino, and indulge in the world-famous Sacher Torte, a spongy chocolate cake filled with apricot marmalade and covered in dark chocolate glaze. If you’re a chocolate fan like me, be prepared to find a new favorite cake in Sacher Torte.

Ice skating at the Viennese Ice Dream is a must-do in Vienna in winter. From January to March Rathausplatz transforms into a huge ice rink. But this is not your everyday ice rink. 

The Vienna Ice Dream features four large rinks with various paths connecting them and even offers a viewing platform on a second floor. You can also access food and drink stalls right from the ice rink, allowing you to take a quick break without getting out of your skates.

If you spend New Year’s Eve in Vienna, celebrate like the locals do and head to the city center for the New Year’s Eve Trail. Along this trail through the historic center, you will find food stalls selling mulled wine and tasty treats, concerts of all kinds, and a cheerful atmosphere. 

Make sure to arrive at Graben before midnight and take a free crash course in waltz dancing to be prepared for what’s coming next.

At the stroke of midnight, the famous bell Pummerin in St. Stephen’s Cathedral rings in the New Year and thousands of people in the streets begin to dance to the famous Viennese Waltz while fireworks light up the sky.

If you’re not in Vienna over New Year’s Eve but still want to dance some waltz make sure to attend one of the Viennese balls hosted throughout the year where you get to dress up and feel like royalty.

Empress Elisabeth, mostly known as Sissi, is an important and beloved figure in Austrian history. During her reign, she used to live at Hofburg, an impressive building in the heart of Vienna that houses the Sissi Museum today. 

Here you will gain insights into the life of Sissi, learn about her routines, and see some of her personal belongings and precious dresses.

Augarten is the oldest public garden in Vienna and with 52 hectares a beloved recreation area for locals and tourists alike. When there is snow in Vienna, this garden is my favorite spot to escape the busy city. 

Strolling along the park’s tree-lined avenues while soaking in the crisp air and winter atmosphere is one of my favorite things to do in Vienna in January. If you plan a visit to the garden, keep in mind that it closes at 5.30 pm during winter months.

The Vienna Boys’ Choir, known as Wiener Sängerknaben, dates back to the 14th century and used to be an integral part of the emperor’s musical entertainment. Today, the Vienna Boys’ Choir is famous all over the world and gives around 300 performances a year. 

You can hear them sing at Mass at Hofburg Chapel or at a dedicated concert. If you spend Christmas time in Vienna you might even experience the Boy’s Choir during one of their many performances at Christmas celebrations all over the city.

Experience the romance of winter in Vienna by taking a horse-drawn carriage ride through the city center. Don’t worry about the winter temperatures, you’ll get a cozy blanket to keep you warm during your ride.

Starting at St. Stephan’s Cathedral the carriage will take you along the famous boulevard Ringstrasse where you can discover Vienna’s historic buildings and beautiful baroque architecture. 

Visit the historic pastry shop Demel, which is well-known for its tasty Kaiserschmarrn. This famous Austrian dessert is a fluffy, shredded pancake that is traditionally served hot with powdered sugar and stewed plums. 

According to legends, Kaiserschmarrn was the emperor’s favorite dish. Today it is a popular dessert in Austrian cuisine and a must when visiting Vienna in Winter.

Join this photo tour which will take you to beautifully illuminated, iconic buildings and hidden gems of Vienna at night and help you capture that perfect shot with your camera or smartphone. The Christmas time with its festive lights and decorations makes this tour especially charming, as you can catch this special atmosphere in your pictures.

Book your adventure: Vienna at night photo tour

Take a shopping tour in Vienna’s historic shopping streets Kärntnerstrasse and Graben. These streets offer a huge variety of popular stores and traditional restaurants. They are lined with beautiful baroque and Renaissance-era buildings, making your shopping experience truly special. 

Strolling along the historic streets illuminated by fairy lights while window shopping is one of my favorite things to do in Vienna in winter.

Vienna is a great base to take a day trip from thanks to its proximity to neighboring countries and its excellent connection to other cities within Austria. 

There are many great day trip options from the idyllic lakeside village Hallstatt to the famous Mozart city Salzburg, or the Hungarian capital Budapest known for its spas.

Salzburg in Winter

Budapest in Winter

24th of December Christmas Eve (Heiliger Abend) Shops and attractions close earlier on this day. Dinner reservations are essential.

25th of December Christmas Day (Christtag) Expect shops to be closed, restaurants and tours might function in a limited fashion. Christmas lunch reservations are essential.

31st December New Year’s Eve (Silvester) Shops and attractions close earlier on this day. Dinner reservations are essential.

1st of January New Year’s Day (Neujahrstag) Expect shops to be closed, restaurants and tours might function in a limited fashion.

6th of January The Epiphany (Heilige Drei Könige) Expect shops to be closed, restaurants and tours might function in a limited fashion.

14th of February Valentine’s Day (Valentienstag) Shop and tour opening times are not affected. Dinner reservations are essential.

School holidays Children in Austria enjoy their school holidays from Christmas to the Epiphany (with exact dates varying each year). Since neighboring countries share similar holidays, you can expect more tourists in the city during this period.

Carnival (Fasching) Dates vary each year, usually in February or early March.

Vienna’s winter temperature and weather

Winter in Vienna officially lasts from late December till late March and is relatively cold and dry with average temperatures at about freezing point. Winter sees less rain than the rest of the year, but snow is common in winter in Vienna. January is typically the coldest month of the year with average temperatures of 1.1 °C (34 °F).

You can expect snow in winter in Vienna. However, the capital does not get as much snow as other regions in Austria. If you’d like to experience the city covered in snow, the best time to visit Vienna is in January and February. 

December in Vienna is often slightly too warm for snow, especially in the city center. March, on the other hand, brings spring temperatures to the capital and barely sees snow. 

You should plan at least three days for your winter getaway in Vienna. Since days are shorter in winter, this will give you enough time to see the most important sights, visit traditional Christmas markets, and try the delicious Austrian cuisine. Keep in mind that some attractions and museums might close earlier during the winter months.

Vienna is easy to reach as it is well-connected with the rest of Austria and the world.

By air: Vienna International Airport is located 18 km southeast of the city center and is the largest and busiest airport in Austria. It offers connections to various international destinations. Book this train ride to the city center for a smooth and hassle-free ride from the airport. 

You can also fly to Bratislava Airport in Slovakia, which is located just 60 km from Vienna. Take this private transfer to get from Bratislava Airport to Vienna’s city center.

By bus: If you’re traveling from within Austria or the neighboring countries, taking a bus to Vienna is a budget-friendly option. The bus terminal is located in the city center and is well-connected with most European cities.

By car: Getting to Vienna by car is pretty straightforward. From within Austria, most major highways take you to the city. On top, Vienna’s road network is well-connected to Bratislava, Budapest, and the Czech Republic. Keep in mind that you need the vignette to use Austrian highways.

By train: Austria offers an excellent railway network that connects Vienna to various major destinations within Austria and neighboring countries. The main train station is situated to the west of the city center and is easily accessible via public buses and subway. I mostly travel by train to Vienna, it’s affordable and super convenient.

Vienna offers excellent public transport including buses, trains, trams, and subways, making it very easy to explore the different corners of the city. Many of the popular attractions are located in Vienna’s city center or along the Ringstrasse and are within walking distance of each other.

This hop-on hop-off bus tour is a great way to explore Vienna and its main sights, especially on those cold winter days.

Vienna is a must-visit city filled with historic architecture, rich culture, and classical music scene. The city’s imperial palaces, famous art galleries, and lively neighborhoods offer a unique blend of past and present.

Austria offers diverse experiences, from rich culture, stunning landscapes, and historic cities like Vienna and Salzburg, to outdoor activities like skiing and hiking in the Alps. For insights on must-visit attractions and tips to make the most of your experience in this wonderful country make sure to check all my articles on Austria!

Vienna: Vienna itinerary Where to stay in Vienna Vienna in winter Best day trips from Vienna

Salzburg: Salzburg Itinerary Where to stay in Salzburg Salzburg in winter

Hallstatt: Your guide to visiting Hallstatt

Travel Insurance

Good travel insurance is an absolute must when traveling abroad, and I’ve learned that the hard way!

Now I always get insured before we leave and  Travel Insurance Masters  is my go-to platform to find the best insurance options for the specific trip.

The TIM platform works as a search engine and suggests the best insurance company and insurance plan for your criteria so you don’t end up paying more for things you don’t need! It also takes into account your age, nationality, destination etc. which can greatly impact the final price.

You can get your quote & provider recommendations  here.

Doris Aschauer

Doris is a Salzburg local who has lived in the Mozart city for the past 10 years. She’s had the pleasure of calling different parts of this beautiful city home, which helped her discover all its hidden gems and the city’s real charm. While Doris loves Salzburg in all its seasons, there’s something truly magical about winter, making it her favorite time of the year in Salzburg.

When she’s not in Salzburg, you’ll find her traveling to the best scuba diving destinations in the world and sharing her experiences on her blog Doris Gone Diving.

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Vienna in December – What You Need to Know

• December 4, 2020
• Austria , Christmas , December , Eurotrip , Travel , Vienna , Winter

There is no city as glamorous as Vienna in December. The imperial architecture, old charm basking in the twinkling lights, and amazing environment all make it a perfect destination during the winter break. The capital of Austria is one of the largest Germans speaking cities in central and eastern Europe. Besides this, Vienna is the most populous city in Austria, and nearly a third of its population is in the city. It is the main economic, cultural, and political center.

Vienna used to be the largest German-speaking city in the world before WWI. The city is a host to major international organizations such as OPEC, OSCE, and the United Nations. Apart from the city’s glamorous history, Vienna is one of the most visited European cities, and you should make time to visit this exceptional destination.

There are so many things that you can do in Vienna. Every December, Vienna squares turn into some of the most magical Christmas markets that feature endless stalls selling hot mulled wine and souvenirs. The atmosphere is different than other times of the year. December is the right time to visit the city if you want to see this city’s magic.

We will explore the city together as we show you some of the unique spots that you should visit in Vienna. 

Table of Contents

How to Get to Vienna

Vienna is an easy location that you can travel to from any part of the world. The city has an international airport that welcomes flights from across the globe. You can reach the city center by public transport or train or a cab if you want to, Vienna is the right destination you should visit in Europe. Vienna has the best public transport systems in Europe and based on experiences around the city, you can get both metro and trams, and they are very reliable and clean.

If you plan to visit Vienna in December, you should have a Vienna visitors’ card for your trip. It will make it is easier for you to access numerous services quickly and at a lower cost. The card features all types of transportation, including discounts at major sights and museums. Some of the old trams have seat warmers, and you should check out during the winter period when traveling. It will help you alleviate the cold that is associated with the December period.

What to Do in Vienna in December

The Austrians celebrate Christmas on 24th December, and if you arrive in the city on 24th, you will find that many Christmas markets are closed, and the streets remain empty because people are in a celebration mood. You will expect that many restaurants and cafes around the city are closed during the Christmas festivities. It is imperative that you check your time and analyze the situation before leaving for Austria, that way, you will know what you are expecting. 

If you will stay in Austria during December, you are likely to experience one of the most amazing feelings as you will find the annual big street party. There is a large firework around the city hall ad night. Besides, you can go on special boat tours on the Danube to this occasion.

If you visit Vienna in December, then the most important activities you should list are listed below. It is a period when there are high tourism activities, and there are various activities that you can do during this period.

Explore the Christmas markets

The first market in this area was held back in the 13th century, and this is when Albrecht allowed the Viennese to hold a market one. As time has passed many people, have become fond of this market and many are enjoying the services from this location.

In case you’re on a Euro trip and visiting Switzerland, I’ve been writing about Switzerland’s Christmas markets a lot, so be sure to read a guide and organize your trip.

There are over twenty markets in Vienna, and you can get almost anything that you will need for your Christmas. If you would like to explore the markets virtually, it is recommended that you get a local guide who will be able to get you around quickly and easily.

Experience the Viennese coffee culture

One of the best ways that you can spend your time is by enjoying the local coffee. It serves as a perfect opportunity that you can get to know the history of the country.

After numerous activities during the winter period, you can sit down and enjoy some coffee and tasty dessert at local restaurants. Viennese’s coffee culture provides endless opportunities, and there are multiple quiet and relaxed coffee cafes that you can enjoy your time.

Visit museums and palaces

Vienna is known as the tone of the essential cultural centers in Europe. For over 700 years, this area has been under Hapsburg family rule. There are fascinating places that you can visit, including palaces and museums.

When you see these locations, you can learn more about the country and the historical pieces and artifacts. Be sure to visit St. Stephen’s cathedral, which is located at the main square.

Enjoy a spa day

During the December period, Vienna can be quite cold and chilly, and when temperatures fall below zero, then a great activity that you can do is to escape to a sauna, spa, or whirlpool. Numerous hotels feature spas, and you can enter the spa and relax and unwind.

Go ice skating

Ice skating is one of the fun activities that you can do while at this destination. Vienna is very cold and icy during winter, and you can enjoy various activities such as skating during this period.

You can choose either between indoor and outside ice skating. You can skate against some of the beautiful backdrops.

Explore walking around the city

If you love exploring different areas, then a walking tour can be a perfect option for you. You can join others and walk around Vienna with the locals as you explore different city areas.

All you need is warm clothes and shoes, and you are good to go and enjoy what the city has to offer.

As you can see, Vienna is the glamourous European capital in December, and it’s definitely a place to visit. Radiating with culture and tradition, you’ll definitely feel that Christmas spirit.

What’s your favorite thing to do in Vienna in winter?

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Hi there! I’m Aurimas, a man behind Go Look Explore. I’m passionate about hiking, exploring off-the-beaten-path destinations, and everything outdoors related. Let’s connect .

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LIFESTYLE & TRAVEL BLOG IN VIENNA

10 family-friendly activities in vienna during winter.

Last Updated on December 10, 2023 by gregor

Embark on a winter wonderland adventure in Vienna with my guide to the top 10 family-friendly activities that guarantee magical moments Bundle up for the ultimate Vienna experience as we explore the city’s enchanting winter offerings From the captivating Time Travel and Magic Vienna History Tour to the adrenaline pumping Giant Ferris Wheel Ride theres something for every family member In this blog I’ll share firsthand experiences and valuable insights as a passionate travel blogger Get ready for a ride through Viennas rich history indulgent chocolate workshops skip the line access and unforgettable performances Lets make your winter getaway an extraordinary blend of fun and learning.

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Best Family-Friendly Activities in Vienna

A winter wonderland of imagination and education.

Vienna Winter Canvas is not just about frosty air and snowflakes it is a journey through time and enchantment Begin your expedition with the Time Travel and Magic Vienna History Tour an immersive experience that brings the city tales to life Through the lens of history and engages your family in a captivating narrative that blends education with sheer wonder.

Ferris Wheel Delights and Panoramic Views

Elevate your Vienna experience with a thrilling spin on the iconic Giant Ferris Wheel This is not just any ride it is a Skipthecashierdeskline adventure that ensures more time enjoying breathtaking views and less time waiting The cityscape transforms into a winter wonderland creating memories that linger long after the ride concludes.

Equine Elegance at the Spanish Riding School

For a touch of elegance witness the Performance Of The Lipizzans at the Spanish Riding School The grace of these magnificent creatures set against the backdrop of Vienna architectural splendor paints a tableau of sheer beauty it is not just a show it is a dance that transcends time and leaves an indelible mark on young and old hearts alike.

Chocolate Alchemy and Family Fun

Indulge your senses in a unique experience at the Chocolate Workshop in the Chocolate Museum w Tasting Unleash your creativity as a family and craft delectable treats It is more than a workshop it is a symphony of flavors that celebrates togetherness and the sweet side of Vienna.

Unveiling Secrets with Guided Tours

Delve deeper into Vienna attractions with guided tours Explore the Spanish Riding School’s inner workings with a Vienna Spanish Riding School Guided Tour Uncover the illusions at the Museum of Illusions and discover the diverse wonders of Schönbrunn Zoo all with skip-the-line privileges.

Madame Tussauds Where Wax Meets Reality

For a dose of celebrity encounters secure your Madame Tussauds Admission Ticket Pose with lifelike wax figures of your favorite stars it’s an interactive experience that sparks laughter and amazement.

EcoFriendly Exploration on Electric Buses

Take a sustainable spin through Vienna with an Electric Bus Tour Explore the city’s nooks and crannies while reducing your environmental impact It is a chance to see Vienna through a different lens one that prioritizes both exploration and conservation.

A Grand Finale of Artistry and Harmony

Conclude your Vienna journey with the grandeur of a Spanish Riding School and Vienna Philharmonic Show Witness the harmonious blend of equestrian artistry and musical brilliance in a performance that transcends ordinary entertainment. I assure you that these recommendations are not just activities they are gateways to a Vienna winter filled with imagination education, and unforgettable moments for the whole family.

As we bid adieu to this enchanting journey through Vienna winter offerings I trust these recommendations have woven a tapestry of joy and wonder for your family From the magical echoes of the Time Travel and Magic Vienna History Tour to the panoramic thrills of the Giant Ferris Wheel Ride each experience was carefully curated to create memories that transcend the season. The grace and prowess of the Lipizzans at the Spanish Riding School painted a portrait of equine elegance while the delectable delights of the Chocolate Workshop added a sweet note to your family adventure Guided tours revealed the secrets of Viennas attractions providing a deeper understanding and appreciation for the city’s rich tapestry.

Whether skipping lines at the Museum of Illusions or marveling at wildlife with Schönbrunn Zoos skip the line tickets each moment was designed to maximize enjoyment Madame Tussauds brought celebrities to life and an Electric Bus Tour allowed you to explore sustainably ensuring your footprint was as light as the winter snow. Finally, the grand finale a harmonious blend of artistry at the Spanish Riding School and Vienna Philharmonic Show This experience transcended mere entertainment leaving an indelible mark on your hearts. Vienna in its winter attire proved to be more than a destination it became a canvas for family bonding learning and laughter As your devoted travel blogger I hope this journey filled your days with warmth and your nights with the magic that only Vienna in winter can provide Until the next adventure may your travels be as delightful and enriching as the winter days spent in this captivating city Safe travels fellow adventurers.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS)

Here are some recommendations for a memorable family day out in Vienna: Schönbrunn Palace and Gardens: Explore the vast gardens surrounding the Schönbrunn Palace. Kids can enjoy the playgrounds, the maze, and the Children’s Museum, making it a perfect blend of history and outdoor fun. Vienna Zoo (Tiergarten Schönbrunn): One of the oldest zoos in the world, Schönbrunn Zoo provides an exciting day for children with a diverse range of animals, educational exhibits, and special children’s activities. Prater Park: Home to the iconic Giant Ferris Wheel, Prater Park is an amusement park with a variety of rides suitable for different age groups. Don’t miss the Liliputbahn, a miniature railway ride. Museum of Natural History (Naturhistorisches Museum): Delve into the wonders of the natural world with fascinating exhibits, including dinosaur skeletons, meteorites, and a giant globe. The museum often hosts interactive events for children. Vienna Children’s Museum (ZOOM Kindermuseum): Designed specifically for kids, this interactive museum encourages hands-on exploration in various themed exhibits, fostering creativity and imagination. Technisches Museum Wien (Technical Museum): Ideal for older kids, this museum showcases technological advancements engagingly. Interactive displays cover everything from transportation to robotics. Haus des Meeres (House of the Sea): A thrilling aquarium housed in a World War II flak tower, where kids can marvel at marine life, walk through a tunnel surrounded by sharks, and enjoy the panoramic views of Vienna from the top. Vienna Prater Liliputbahn: Take a charming train ride around Prater Park. The Liliputbahn is a miniature railway that captures the fascination of young minds. Augarten Park: A vast green space with playgrounds and open areas for picnics. It’s a great spot for a relaxed day outdoors, and the porcelain factory in Augarten offers guided tours for older kids. Globenmuseum (Globe Museum): Located within the Austrian National Library, this unique museum displays a fascinating collection of globes, perfect for cultivating an interest in geography.

Vienna, with its rich history and cultural heritage, offers several fun facts for kids to enjoy: Imperial Treasure Hunt: Vienna was once the center of the powerful Habsburg Empire. Take your kids on an imperial treasure hunt at Schönbrunn Palace, where they can explore secret passages and uncover fascinating stories about royalty. Giant Ferris Wheel Tales: The iconic Giant Ferris Wheel in Prater Park has stood tall since 1897. Share the exciting story of this historic ride with your little ones, emphasizing its timeless appeal. Talking Statues: Vienna has talking statues that share interesting tales from the past. One such statue is of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart in Burggarten, which “talks” about his life and musical genius. Lipizzaner Horses at the Spanish Riding School: Introduce your kids to the elegant Lipizzaner horses, stars of the Spanish Riding School. Share fun facts about their training and performances, making a visit to the school an educational and entertaining experience. Mozart’s Child Prodigy Years: Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, the musical genius, composed his first symphony at the age of eight! Inspire budding musicians with this incredible fact about Mozart’s early achievements. Vienna’s Musical Legacy: Vienna is often called the “City of Music” with a legacy that includes famous composers like Mozart, Beethoven, and Strauss. Explore the city’s musical history through fun anecdotes and perhaps catch a family-friendly classical concert. Tiergarten Schönbrunn – Oldest Zoo in the World: The Schönbrunn Zoo is the world’s oldest, founded in 1752. Share fascinating facts about its history and the diverse array of animals, making a visit an exciting adventure. Culinary Delights: Introduce kids to Austrian cuisine with delightful facts about popular treats like Sachertorte (chocolate cake) and Apfelstrudel (apple strudel). A visit to a traditional Viennese café can be a sweet experience! Vienna’s Magical Parks: Vienna boasts beautiful parks and gardens, including the magical Augarten. Share tales of princesses and adventures while exploring these green oases within the city. Museum of Natural History Mysteries: Unveil mysteries at the Museum of Natural History, where kids can marvel at dinosaur skeletons and learn about ancient civilizations through interactive exhibits.

Several Christmassy activities might have you running to the airport: Vienna Christmas Markets: The enchanting Christmas markets in Vienna are a must-visit. The twinkling lights, festive decorations, and the aroma of holiday treats create a magical atmosphere. The Christkindlmarkt in front of City Hall and the market at Schönbrunn Palace are particularly popular. Ice Skating at Rathausplatz: The Rathausplatz transforms into a winter wonderland with an ice skating rink. Glide under the stars with the iconic Rathaus (City Hall) as your backdrop. Christmas Concerts: Vienna, known as the “City of Music,” hosts numerous Christmas concerts in historic venues. Enjoy classical music performances and festive tunes to get into the holiday spirit. Vienna’s Festive Lights: The city is adorned with sparkling lights and decorations during the winter season. A stroll through the beautifully illuminated streets, especially around the Ringstrasse, is a magical experience. Admiring the Festive Window Displays: Explore the charming streets of Vienna and take in the festive window displays in the city’s shops. Many stores go all out with creative and enchanting decorations. Delicious Austrian Treats: Indulge in traditional Austrian Christmas treats such as Lebkuchen (gingerbread), Maroni (roasted chestnuts), and of course, the famous Sachertorte. Attend a Nutcracker Ballet: Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Tchaikovsky’s “Nutcracker” with a ballet performance. The Vienna State Opera often hosts magical productions during the holiday season. Candlelight Tours at Schönbrunn Palace: Experience the grandeur of Schönbrunn Palace with special candlelight tours during the winter season. The palace’s rooms are beautifully illuminated, creating a fairy-tale ambiance. Winter Wonders at Belvedere Palace: The gardens of Belvedere Palace are transformed into a winter wonderland. Explore the grounds, enjoy the festive decorations, and take in the panoramic views of Vienna. Vienna New Year’s Eve Trail: If You are extending your stay into the New Year, join the Vienna New Year’s Eve Trail. Enjoy live music, entertainment, and the spectacular fireworks display at midnight.

Here’s why these traditional treats add a special touch to your Viennese Christmas: 1. Spätzle Delight: Spätzle, a type of soft egg noodle, is a comforting and hearty dish often served during the winter season. Whether paired with rich sauces, cheese, or as a side to festive roasts, spätzle brings warmth and a taste of Austrian tradition to your Christmas feast. 2. Krapfen Joy: Krapfen, Austria’s answer to doughnuts, are a sweet indulgence that takes Christmas desserts to the next level. These filled pastries, often with apricot jam or custard, are a delight to the taste buds and a popular treat during the holiday season. 3. Culinary Tradition: Vienna takes pride in its culinary traditions, and spätzle and krapfen are beloved staples that have stood the test of time. Enjoying these dishes during Christmas connects you to the rich gastronomic history of the city. 4. Festive Atmosphere: Viennese Christmas markets and cozy cafes are the perfect settings to savor spätzle and krapfen. Whether you’re enjoying them as street food or in a charming café, these treats enhance the festive atmosphere, providing a sense of warmth and indulgence. 5. Shared Moments: Food has a way of bringing people together, and sharing spätzle and krapfen with family and friends creates memorable moments. It’s a way to bond over a table filled with delicious, seasonal delights, adding to the joy of the holiday season.

8 Best Things to Do and See in Vienna During Winter

Best new year concert in vienna.

18 top things to do in Vienna

Jul 1, 2021 • 8 min read

Cycling on Danube Island in Vienna's Donaustadt district. © Balakate/Shutterstock

Museums filled with masterpieces, brilliant baroque streetscapes, sumptuous palaces and epicurean delights, naturally Vienna is an unmissable stop on your Europe adventure.

Now with street art, craft beer brewing, an analogue-only hotel stay, and summer ‘beach bars’, contemporary Vienna continues to flourish as a creative cultural hub.

Kunsthistorisches Museum Vienna

The jewel in Vienna's artistic crown is its Kunsthistorisches Museum Vienna . As well as accumulating vassal lands, the Habsburgs assembled one of Europe's finest collections of art and artefacts. Housed inside a majestic neoclassical building, the highlight of this incredible cache is the Picture Gallery, an encounter with a vast and emotionally powerful collection of works by grand masters, such as Pieter Bruegel the Elder's evocative and 'industrial' Tower of Babel from the 16th century or the bright plenitude of Giuseppe Arcimboldo's Summer.

Vienna’s coffee houses

Great works of art have been created in these 'living rooms' of the Viennese. Patronised by luminaries such as Mahler, Klimt, Freud, Trotsky and Otto Wagner in their day, Vienna's Kaffeehäuser (coffee houses) were added to the Unesco list of Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2011. Many retain their opulent original decor, and often specialise in a particular cake, such as the Sacher Torte, an iced-chocolate cake with apricot jam once favoured by Emperor Franz Josef, at Café Sacher. New-wave coffee houses are putting their own twist on the tradition.

MuseumsQuartier

Have you had enough of culture yet? No? Good, because the MuseumsQuartier (MQ) is a 90,000 sq metre exhibition space encompassing 60 cultural institutions ranging from fine art, music, theatre, and dance to game culture, street art and photography. Highlights include – including the Leopold Museum , MUMOK , Kunsthalle Wien , Architekturzentrum and Zoom but there are multiple micro-museums and creative spaces to explore. It’s also one of the key locations for the annual Wiener Festwochen (Vienna Festival) held over six weeks in May and June.

The annual Calle Libre street art festival focuses on one guiding theme as celebrated artists respond across curated walls for a week each summer. Founded almost a decade ago by Jakob Kettner, the festival brings together live paintings, street art works, guided tours, film screenings and workshops for urban aesthetics. You’ll get the chance to learn more about Vienna’s burgeoning street art scene, discover works from local and international artists, and find out what issues are shaping and challenging the city today. 

Ringstrasse Tram Tour

For a spin around Vienna's architectural highlights, jump on a tram and travel along the Ringstrasse , one of Europe's most magnificent streets. The circular boulevard of imposing state buildings was carved out of the space once occupied by fortifications protecting Vienna from Ottoman Turk attack in the 16th century. You’ll pass the Monument to the Victims of Fascism at the former Gestapo headquarters site, the neoclassical facade of Parlament, Austria’s parliament, the Athena Fountain, and Äusseres Burgtor (Outer Palace Gate). The Roman gate leads the way to the Imperial Palace, the Hofburg.

Schloss Schönbrunn 

The magnificent rococo former summer palace and gardens of the Habsburgs are a perfect place to experience the pomp, circumstance and gracious legacy of Austria's erstwhile monarchs. A visit to 40 of the palace's lavishly appointed rooms reveals the lifestyle and the eccentricities of Europe's most powerful family. Beyond the Unesco-listed palace, Schloss Schönbrunn Gardens invite a stroll past pseudo-Roman ruins, along bucolic paths winding through leafy woods and a stopover in the gardens' highlight, the Gloriette, with mesmerising views of the palace and city beyond.

Hofburg Palace 

The former wintering ground of the Habsburg monarchs for over 700 years, Hofburg is a living palace today. One of the biggest palace complexes in the world, it now houses a fine collection of museums, is home to the Austrian president, Austria's National Library and public offices. It is also the temporary home of the Austrian Parliament while the main building undergoes renovations expected to be completed in 2024. 

Donauturm tower

The newly renovated 1960s modernist Donauturm tower offers panoramic views across the city and the Danube river. It’s also located in one of the most beautiful and largest parks in the city, the Danube Park making it doubly worth a visit. From the top you’ll see the entire surrounding region of Vienna on a clear day. Who can resist booking a sunset meal at a rotating restaurant at 170m high? This is peak tourist, and we love it. The set-price Viennese three-course meal includes lift tickets.  

Whether it's coffee houses, local dining, or a pub crawl, there are a host of tours on offer to the best places to eat and drink in Vienna. Bi-lingual local tour guides guide visitors to different, seasonally appropriate (Christmas market foodie tour anyone?) locations to show off the best the city has to offer. One popular outfit founded by local couple Melinda and Thomas, Vienna Food Tours covers the variety of cuisines that influenced Viennese food: sampling appetizers, a sausage stand, mains, and of course something sweet to round it off over a whole afternoon. 

Riesenrad Giant Ferris Wheel 

It’s famous among cinephiles as the place Graham Greene sent his fictional character Harry Lime for a slow rotation in the 1949 film The Third Man. The 1897-built Riesenrad , otherwise known as the Viennese Giant Ferris Wheel, rises above the beautiful green open spaces of the Prater in Vienna’s 2nd district. A ride takes you high above the city and the wooded parkland and meadows below. Save some time to explore the Prater by foot or bicycle after you return to ground level.

Schloss Belvedere 

Living up to its Italianesque name 'beautiful view', this 18th-century palace and garden ensemble is deceptively close to Vienna's city centre while still creating a feeling of being worlds apart. Symmetrical, finely sculpted and manicured gardens overlooking Vienna's unfolding skyline connect two exquisite palaces dedicated to a who's who of Austrian art. Gustav Klimt's painting The Kiss is a highlight. The masterpieces on display are complemented by interiors so stately that they're worthy of a visit in their own right.

Stephansdom 

A Gothic reminder of another age, the Stephansdom is Vienna's heart and soul. The awe-inspiring cathedral lords over the city, topped by an intricately tiled roof, with its distinctive row of chevrons and Austrian eagle. Below the cathedral are the Katakomben (catacombs), with their eerie collection of the deceased; inside, a magnificent Gothic stone pulpit presides over the main nave; and rising above it to dizzying heights is the South Tower with its viewing stage offering dazzling panoramas over town.

Copa Cagrana Beach

Just beyond the city centre, nestled by the Donauinsel, lies Copa Cagrana Beach , a stretch of sandy beach bars, pop-up food stalls and a large open-air TV viewing area that locals flock to in the summer months. Only open between June and September Vienna makes the most of the holiday atmosphere with volleyball courts, trampolines and green space beside the water. Nibble on delicate Trześniewski sandwiches (open finger sandwiches) as you look across the Donaukanal, or satiate your summer cravings with a fresh spritzer.

Vineyard hiking

The hills surrounding Vienna are awash with vineyards and views, ripe for hiking and tippling in equal measure. Held in autumn (typically late September or October), the annual wine hiking day sees over 190 winemakers set up small wooden huts along the popular walking paths above Vienna, where thirsty hikers can stop in to try the fresh wine harvest of the year. Pick up your glass from one of the hiking-day stations at the bottom of the trail, and meander your way from Neustift to Nussdorf, Strebersdorf to Stammersdorf, or the shorter Ottakring to Neuwald route. The ‘hikes’ themselves are quite low impact and allow plenty of time to stop, sip and enjoy the fresh air.

VHS, vinyl and typewriters

Seeking a true digital detox can be challenging, with a constant barrage of tech an unavoidable part of our daily lives. To help you stay offline and relax, 25 Hours hotel has collaborated with Supersense cafe to create the first ‘analogue hotel room’ for your perfectly curated escape from modern life. Replacing wi-fi and wide screens with a typewriter, VHS player and vinyl records, the suite offers a stylish retreat to the simpler technologies of decades gone by. Perfect for a truly unplugged weekend getaway. If you want to explore further, book a bicycle from their friends at Schindelhauer.

Craft beer has come of age in Vienna with a number of bars specialising in locally made brews. Just off Mariahilferstrasse, Ammutson Craft Beer Dive 's commitment to fresh tap beer from local microbreweries is a welcome addition to the scene. While stalwart craft beer venues like Beaver Brewing Company continue to provide a hearty mix of delicious food, alongside their expansive and regularly changing craft beer menus. Beer drinkers, on your marks...

Christmas markets 

Vienna's much-loved Christmas market season runs from around mid-November to Christmas Eve. The Christkindlmärkte atmosphere is magical with stalls in streets and squares selling wooden toys, festive decorations and traditional food such as Würstel (sausages) and Glühwein (mulled wine). The centrepiece is the Wiener Weihnachtstraum Christkindlmarkt on Rathausplatz but you'll find Christmas markets across the city including at Schloss Schönbrunn.

Rudolfsheim-Fünfhaus: 15th district

The 15th district is experiencing a rejuvenation thanks to community driven events, interesting stores and markets. Brunch and coffee lovers can get their fill at Landkind , Das Augustin and Turnhalle im Brick 5 , and see Austria’s best barista slinging lattes at GOTA Coffee Experts . Hidden down the district's side alleys is the unique indie art gallery, Improper Walls , and quirky stores such as Metaware , a ‘gift shop for nerds & geeks’.

In the evenings, there’s a wealth of food and drink options to explore in the district, from Das Eduard’s pita burgers on its outdoor terrace, to indie bar ein affee and wine haven Reinwein . Vegetarians can enjoy the secluded delights of restaurant and art gallery Hollerei , a short walk from Meidling Hauptstrasse station.

This article was first published in May 2019, last updated by Tasmin Waby on 29 June 2021.

Free things to do in Vienna Best day trips from Vienna The 7 best things to do in Vienna with kids

This article was first published May 2019 and updated July 2021

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20 Best Things to Do in Vienna, Austria, From Palace Strolls to Sachertorte

Here's how locals recommend exploring the capital city.

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Vienna (or “Wien” in German) is a must-visit city for many travelers, whether you’re visiting Europe for the first time or returning for a new adventure. The capital of Austria is a rich cultural hub, boasting museums, Baroque architecture, and a legacy closely tied to classical music — hence its nickname, the City of Music. Vienna is also the birthplace of Wiener schnitzel, and it continues to hold the title of “most livable city,” as determined by the Economist Intelligence Unit’s Global Liveability Index .

Tina Haselbacher, the owner of Almanac Hotels — which opened Almanac Palais Vienna in March 2023 — describes Vienna as “a place where tradition meets the contemporary.” While the city is, in many ways, visually defined by its historic structures, Haselbacher explains that there are “interesting and contemporary concepts living behind these traditional facades, such as modern art, cutting-edge culinary innovations, and interactive experiences with today’s creators.”

To discover both sides of Vienna, you’ll want to fill your itinerary with a combination of the old and the new — a stop by the Hofburg Palace followed by an afternoon exploring the Kunsthalle Wien in the Museumsquartier, for example. Read on to discover the best things to do when visiting Vienna, according to locals. 

Visit the famed Schönbrunn Palace.

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According to Julija and Wolfgang Rigon of Good Vienna Tours , you “can't visit Vienna without [seeing] Schönbrunn.” The summer residence of the Habsburgs, Schönbrunn Palace is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city. While you’ll inevitably experience lines, particularly if you’re there during the weekend, there’s still plenty to do while you wait. “You get [your ticket] relatively quickly and see what time you are allowed into the castle. While you're waiting, you can grab a bite to eat or visit the gardens,” says the couple.

Enjoy a slow morning at a coffee house.

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“Viennese coffee house culture is an integral part of the Viennese lifestyle, so much so that UNESCO placed it on its intangible cultural heritage list ,” says Michael Gigl, head of market USA for the Austrian Tourist Office . Don’t expect a fast-paced, Starbucks-like morning, though. “The true secret to the Vienna coffee house experience is the lack of time pressure. No one will bat an eye if you decide to read every single newspaper and magazine on hand," he says. "Opening a laptop, however, is rather frowned upon.” Gigl’s coffee house recommendations include Café Sperl , Café Hawelka , Café Korb , Café Ritter , and Café Schwarzenberg .

Stop by St. Stephen's Cathedral.

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At its tallest point, St. Stephen’s Cathedral reaches 136 meters, making it the tallest church in Austria and one of the most recognizable sights in Vienna. Visiting the main entrance is free, but you’ll need to purchase a ticket to see the cathedral in its entirety. “The view from the top, whether by foot or by elevator, is highly recommended in good weather,” says Wolfgang Rigon.

Snap a photo of the Majolikahaus (Majolica House).

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“Otto Wagner’s Majolikahaus is a Viennese Art Nouveau-styled building famous for its colorful tiles with a floral motif," says Haselbacher. "It is such a special place to see an icon of the Art Nouveau style." Designed by the Austrian architect in 1898 and 1899, Majolikahaus can be found at Linke Wienzeile 40 in the Laimgrube neighborhood. 

Fill up on Wiener schnitzel.

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“Without having eaten [Wiener schnitzel] in its hometown, you have not been to Vienna,” says Julija Rigon. Made of thinly pounded veal, dipped in flour, egg, and breadcrumbs, and fried until golden brown, Wiener schnitzel is said to have been introduced in Vienna in the 1850s. It’s not hard to find the dish here; a few restaurant options include Schnitzelwirt , Skopik & Lohn , and Salzamt .

Take a dip in the Krapfenwaldlbad swimming pool.

If you grow tired of walking around Vienna and find yourself in need of a refreshing swim, make your way out of the city center. “ Krapfenwaldlbad is an outdoor swimming area in the woods of Vienna, overlooking the entire city," says Haselbacher. "Head there in the summertime to cool off and mix with locals and families."

Attend a performance at the Vienna State Opera.

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“About 10,000 people enjoy a classical music performance somewhere in the city every day, so go grab a ticket to the opera or a concert performance,” says Gigl. The Vienna State Opera House features 350 performances each season — both operas and ballets — and tickets can be purchased online . To learn more about Vienna’s musical history and tradition, Gigl suggests visiting the Haus der Musik (House of Music) “for an engaging interactive experience.”

Get an insider’s view of the city via a walking tour.

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Unless someone in your party already has a solid understanding of the city — including its layout, history, and lesser-known facts — a walking tour is a great way to get your bearings. Good Vienna Tours offers tours in English every day at 10 a.m. and again at 2 p.m.

Learn about Vienna’s past and present at the Jewish Museum.

Courtesy of the Jewish Museum Vienna

With an emphasis on the time period encompassing the two World Wars, this museum educates visitors on Jewish history, culture, and religion. Though it is split into two locations, a single ticket grants you access to both Museum Dorotheergasse and Museum Judenplatz . The latter is home to the Judenplatz Holocaust Memorial, a memorial designed by Rachel Whiteread that honors the Austrian victims of the Holocaust.

Indulge in a slice of Sachertorte.

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Sachertorte, which Gigl calls “the world’s most storied cake," should be on your must-try list while in Vienna. Invented in 1832 by pastry chef Franz Sacher, Sachertorte is a rich chocolate sponge cake made with layers of apricot jam and a chocolate ganache topping. Café Demel and Café Sacher have had a rivalry over the treat for centuries, so you may need to try both and see which one you prefer.

Relax in Vienna’s green spaces.

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“One of the reasons Vienna is consistently named as one, if not the, best place to live, is the city’s abundance of green spaces, parks, and recreational opportunities,” says Gigl. “Try the Prater for a leisurely stroll, or head to the ‘Alte Donau’ (Old Danube) for a swim or a paddleboard session,” says Gigl.

Explore the art collection at the Belvedere Museum.

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There’s a high chance art aficionados will already be familiar with the Belvedere Museum , which the Rigons describe as a “beautiful Baroque palace with an even more impressive garden.” Haselbacher adds, “They have the biggest collection of [Gustav] Klimt, and the architecture is really special." The Klimt collection includes his most famous piece, “The Kiss.”

Eat lunch at a würstelstand.

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A würstelstand is a traditional Austrian street food outlet that serves sausage, hot dogs, and beer, among other delicacies. You’ll find them all over Vienna, but Würstelstand LEO is said to be the city’s oldest sausage stand. If you aren’t adverse to dairy, order the Käsekrainer, which is a sausage filled with small chunks of cheese.

Walk along the Ringstraße.

In 1857, Emperor Franz Joseph ordered the construction of a boulevard built around Vienna’s city center. Down came the historic city walls, and the Ringstraße (or Vienna Ring Road) took its place, although it took a few decades to complete. “The State Opera, the Hofburg, the Museum of Fine Arts, the Museum of Natural History, the Burgtheater, the City Hall, and the Parliament are just a few sights on Ringstraße,” says Wolfgang Rigon. He suggests walking the 5.2km (about 3.2 miles) route or taking a streetcar.

Shop in Vienna’s two remaining street markets.

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Hasselbacher notes that if you make your way to Währing, the 18th district, you’ll find Kutschkermarkt, one of “the last remaining street markets in Vienna.” The other street market, Brunnenmarkt , is in Ottakring, the 16th district. Both offer a variety of produce, meats, breads, spices, flowers, and more. On Saturdays, Kutschkermarkt also has a farmer’s market, where regional fruits and vegetables join the lineup.

Spend a few hours in the MuseumsQuartier.

Self-described as “one of the largest cultural quarters in the world,” the MuseumsQuartier is a hub of Viennese creativity. Here you’ll find the Leopold Museum , the MUMOK (Museum of Modern Art Ludwig Foundation Vienna), and the contemporary exhibition space Kunsthalle Wien . If you’re interested in architecture, music, theater, dance, street art, literature, photography, or all of the above, you’ll find something interesting in the MuseumsQuartier.

Round out your meal with a Punschkrapfen.

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“Punschkrapfen is a local delicacy made of nougat and jam-filled sponge cake soaked with rum,” says Haselbacher. Translated to punch cake, the dessert can be found in numerous places across the city, and you’ll notice it immediately thanks to its bright pink coloring.

Dive into Habsburg history at Hofburg Palace.

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Hofburg Palace once served as the Habsburgs’ winter residence, but today it’s the workplace and home of the president of Austria. Visitors are allowed to explore the palace, which houses three museums: the Imperial Apartments, the Sisi Museum, and the Imperial Silver Collection (although the latter is expected to be closed until 2026).

Make a reservation at Palmenhaus.

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You’ll find Palmenhaus in Vienna’s 1st district, next to the Albertina Museum . “With over 400 butterflies flying in the palm house year-round, it is a lovely spot to be immersed in nature,” says Haselbacher, who adds that it’s also a “very nice spot to have a drink, overlooking the Park Burggarten.”

Visit the history-filled Kunsthistorisches Museum.

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“If you are even a little interested in art, a visit to the Kunsthistorisches Museum is a must,” says Julija Rigon. "It is one of the largest and most important museums in the world." Also referred to as the Museum of Fine Arts, the venue's collections span five millennia and include works by Pieter Bruegel the Elder, Rubens, Michelangelo, Vermeer, and more.

Vienna with Kids: Our Incredible Winter Visit

Dear reader: This article contains links to products and services that I may be compensated for, at no extra cost to you.

Vienna was our final stop in a 10-week round-the-world trip with our kids. We were moving from Taiwan to Canada, and traveled to 11 countries in between, mainly in the Middle East, Balkans, and Central Europe.

Since we did a loop around Central Europe, we had actually passed through western Austria about a month earlier, in early November (see my articles on the best places to visit in Austria with kids , what to do in Salzburg with kids and why we loved Innsbruck with kids ).

By the time we took our final train from Budapest (which, by the way we absolutely loved; read about it here ) to Vienna, we were at the tail-end of a long trip, and we tackled the Austrian capital a little differently than we normally would.

Even though Vienna is considered one of the best places to visit in Europe in December , we were tired of traveling, mentally preparing for our new life in Canada, and being the start of winter, it was too cold out for us to do a lot of the usual recommended things to do in Vienna with kids, including spending much time in the city’s huge number of outdoor parks and playgrounds. We also wanted to do some Christmas shopping and not be too rushed for the final days of our trip.

As a result, the Vienna itinerary with kids I’ll provide below is a light one; you could probably pack quite a bit more in than we did if you really wanted to. Still, we managed to visit one different Vienna Christmas market on each day of our trip!

So in this article, I’m not going to give a comprehensive list of all the possible kid-friendly things to do in Vienna (you can find that in other articles). What I will do, though, is cover in great detail our 3-day Vienna itinerary with kids. As usual, we tried to cover a decent mix of things we wanted to see ourselves and ours kids’ choices of what they wanted to do. You may also want to have a look at this budget (rather than kid) focused Vienna three day itinerary .

And for the first time on our European trip, we even braved taking the kids to an art gallery, and it went surprisingly well!

For anyone planning a trip to Vienna in winter with kids, I hope our experiences can give you some ideas or inspiration!

Table of Contents

Getting Around Vienna

The top things to do with kids in Vienna are a little spread out. Many museums and sights are concentrated in the city center (Innere Stadt) but accommodations are also generally more expensive there. Belvedere Palace and the main train station lie to the south of the city center, Prater Amusement Park is to the east, while Schönbrunn Palace and Zoo are found in the west.

Thankfully, the city’s excellent network of metro (U-bahn) , city trains (S-bahn) , trams (Strassenbahn) and buses make getting around Vienna with kids a breeze. If the transportation maps seem complicated, don’t worry about! We mostly just used GoogleMaps to find out what to take to get from point A to point B.

If you’re heading to the airport before or after, the CAT Airport transfer is a direct train from Wien Mitte station to the airport. Alternatively, the regular S-bahn train to the airport is much cheaper, only takes slightly longer, and departs from several stations besides Wien Mitte.

To avoid buying individual tickets each time, consider getting a Vienna City Card . Each adult card also covers free travel for one kid aged 6-15, and under 6 travel free. The card comes in your choice of 24, 28, or 72 hours, with the option to add airport connections. It covers all public transportation in the city, and comes with discounts at various attractions. I would suggest adding up the attractions you plan to visit and rides you will take to determine whether the pass is worth it for your trip. If it’s not, you can also purchase reasonably-priced 24-hour transportation tickets from any ticket machines.

If you plan to rent a car to get out of Vienna, I recommend using RentalCars , while kiwi.com is what we usually use to find the most convenient and cheapest flights within Europe.

Where to Stay in Vienna with Kids

For our family holiday in Vienna, we decided to stay at this family-friendly apartment in Landstrasse (3rd) district, southeast of the city center. We had simple connections by tram or metro to everywhere we wanted to go, including the main train station, and we could even walk to Belvedere Palace from our apartment (see day three of our Vienna itinerary with kids below).

Two other districts that you’ll want to consider are 4th and 5th; see more info in this detailed guide to where to stay in Vienna .

What made our apartment family-friendly? Well, the hosts themselves (who lived across the hall, though we never met them) had kids. The apartment was huge, and even came with bunk beds, games, and books for the kids. We had laundry, a full kitchen, and an elevator to haul our things up.

Besides having everything we needed, the apartment was tastefully decorated (with odes to Vienna’s musical past), and in a totally quiet, local building/neighborhood, with no other tourists in sight.

Our Vienna Itinerary with Kids: Day 1

For our first day in Vienna, we headed straight to Prater , which is one of the oldest amusement parks in the world. The amusement park is at the northern end of Wiener Prater , a huge park in between central Vienna and the Danube.

The amusement park mainly operates from March to October, but the park and grounds remain open year round. Despite the cold December weather we still decided to go; we thought it would be fun for the kids to explore the grounds.

Most importantly, the Wiener Riesenrad (Prater Ferris Wheel) does operate year world. It’s not often you get a chance to ride on the world’s oldest running Ferris wheel!

The Ferris wheel dates to 1897 and is one of Vienna’s most iconic sights. It was the tallest Ferris wheel in the world for around 65 years. After being damaged in WWII, only 15 of its 30 “gondolas” were replaced.

Save time by buying your Prater Ferris Wheel tickets online in advance.

Although we found the Ferris wheel ticket price a little high, we really enjoyed the room full of exhibits housed in retired Ferris wheel gondolas, which is included in the price of the ticket. Each gondola contained detailed miniature displays showcasing the history of the wheel, including what the original amusement park (complete with beer house) and the fiery scene when it was destroyed.

Taking a ride on the gondola is a way to experience an important piece of history in Vienna, not to mention the incredible city views. It’s a rather slow ride, and was perfect for our kids because they weren’t scared at all.

Like our pictures? See the small mirrorless camera we always use when traveling with kids.

Even when most of the rides are closed for the winter, Prater Amusement Park is fun to walk around, and really does feel like stepping back in time. There are also several other facilities to tempt visitors with kids, including the Chocolate Museum, Madame Tussauds Vienna (a wax museum), Vienna Zeiss Planetarium, with daily films shown on its domed ceiling. All of the above are indoors and still open throughout winter.

We were too early in the day for it, but there’s also the Prater Winter Market on site, with numerous activities in the afternoon and on weekends.

With plenty of time and energy left after visiting Prater, we hopped on the metro at nearby Praterstern transportation hub to head to Stephansplatz , a square at the geographical heart of Vienna.

The square is dominated by the impressive St. Stephen’s Cathedral (Stephansdom), one of the tallest cathedrals in the world. Its 136-meter tower makes it the tallest structure in Vienna; looking from below, it is impossible not to be humbled by it. We also loved (and hadn’t expected) the multi-colored tiles on the sides of the roof.

We arrived to find a large Christmas market set up around the cathedral in the square. With Christmas just around the corner and lots of presents to buy for family back home, we also sought out Wiener Christmas Salon , a dedicated Christmas ornaments shop.

While we paid a pretty penny for the few items we bought there, all were exquisite and locally produced. Incidentally, in Franziskanerplatz , the small and extremely cute square in front of the shop, my wife exclaimed, “THIS is what I expected Vienna to look like!”

We could have easily spent several more hours exploring the city center of Vienna; there is much more to it than just one square and cathedral…However, all we wanted to do was head back and enjoy our cozy apartment with a bottle of wine, so we did!

Read about our trips to Prague and Bavaria in early winter of the same trip.

Our Vienna Itinerary with Kids: Day 2

One our second day in Vienna, we let the kids decide the program. We presented multiple choices to them, based on our research on the best things to do in Vienna with kids. Here are some of the things they DIDN’T choose, but you may want to!

Schönbrunn Zoo , the oldest continuously operating zoo in the world, was ruled out because it was quite cold during our visit (if you do visit the zoo, make sure to skip the lines by ordering your tickets online ), not to mention that we’d been to several other zoos in previous weeks. The kids also turned down the morning horse exercises at the Spanish Riding School , something I kind of wanted to see myself.

At Schönbrunn Palace, next door to the zoo, the outdoor maze was closed, while dressing up in royal regalia at the Children’s Museum didn’t appeal much to our kids. If you do decide to visit the Palace, you might want to consider letting your kids learn how to make Viennese apple strudels while you’re there!

Similarly, the House of Music , which actually has great reviews and is considered one of the top kid-friendly attractions in Vienna, was ruled out because we had already been to Audioversum during our trip to Innsbruck , almost exactly the same thing.

Last but not least, with the chilly weather, we considered Zoom Children’s Museum , a kind of play center with a variety of programs. However, the activities and programs on offer seemed to require advance reservations.

So what did that leave us with? Well, the kids without hesitation chose House of the Sea (Aqua Terra Zoo or Haus des Meeres ), the main aquarium in Vienna.

Our kids had been obsessed with reptiles, sea creatures and amphibians ever since the beginning of our 10-week trip, when we spotted loads of fish on our family trip to Italy and the Balkans, and saw fire salamanders while traveling in Croatia with the kids .

They had been begging to go to any aquarium for quite a while; we were just waiting for a city that had a good one!

The enormous aquarium consists of 10 floors (they get smaller and smaller as you go up). The fun began the moment we stepped in the front door, where a huge crocodile was visible above in the glass ceiling above the ticket counter!

The excitement only continued from there; the first floor featured an Atlantic tunnel and the chance to touch fish. In a two-floor tropical greenhouse section, monkeys played all around us while bats flew by; it felt like being in a real jungle!

Other awesome highlights included an enormous tank with hammerhead sharks, a wall of miniature jellyfish, and every reptile, sea creature, insect, and amphibian imaginable. The kids even got to see an endangered Chinese giant salamander, something they’d learned about a few weeks earlier and had been talking about since!

Interestingly, the aquarium building was once an anti-aircraft tower in WWII. A staircase from the 9th to 10th floors contains an exhibit on the history of the structure. The 10th floor has a café (closed for renovations when we visited) offering expansive city views.

If possible, try to time your visit with one of the animal feeding times !

After an exciting few hours in the aquarium, we strolled along Mariahilfer Strasse , Vienna’s longest and most fashionable shopping street, which passes by the aquarium.

We enjoyed the Christmas decorations and fresh air before hopping on the metro a few stops to Karsplatz, one of the main squares of Vienna. Mainly we went for the Karsplatz Christmas Market , one of the city’s most beautiful.

Karlskirche church forms a magnificent backdrop to the Christmas market. Numerous stalls in the square offer the usual mix of Christmas items, hot boozy drinks, and delicious foods. This market in particular has a focus on handmade crafts.

Karsplatz Christmas market is very kid-friendly. There was a pen at the center with goats and pigs, a merry-go-round, rides, and a large playground right next to it.

Our Vienna Itinerary with Kids: Day 3

For our final day in Vienna (and our last day of a 10-week trip!), we decided to do something we’d never fathomed doing with our kids before: taking them to an art gallery.

Belvedere Palace was only a 15-minute walk from our apartment. The enormous complex consists of two baroque palaces, an upper and a lower one, both of which are surrounded by the Belvedere Gardens.

The most iconic view is looking across a large pool of water at the southern side of the upper palace. The Upper Palace also houses the Belvedere Art Galley , most famously known for housing a number of Klimt originals.

I’ve always been a fan of Klimt, and I didn’t want to miss the chance to see his works just because we were traveling with kids, so we decided to brave it and bring them along.

We recommend that you order your Belvedere Palace Art Gallery Ticket online before you go to make things easier. Just don’t forget to print it (they can’t scan phones). Children 18 and under are free, but you need to include them when you buy the tickets.

The stunning artwork in the gallery, not only by Klimt but many other artists, made it worth every penny (and all the effort). I had no idea that “The Kiss” was so large, while I couldn’t take my eyes off “Judith and the Head of Holofernes” and some of Klimt’s other lesser-known works. Besides all the paintings, the interior of the palace itself is magnificent as well.

While our kids didn’t love the hour we spent in the gallery, they didn’t hate it either, so we considered it a success. As a word of warning, if you book online like we did, make sure to print your vouchers or you’ll face an ordeal when you try to enter. Also don’t make our second mistake of bringing a backpack into the galleries; you’ll be asked to go back downstairs and check it in at the coat check, which usually has a long line.

By the time we left the art gallery, the Belvedere Palace Christmas Market was just starting outside. We enjoyed a lunch of traditional dumplings, goulash, pretzels, hot boozy egg nog, and mouthwatering pastries.

I’m sorry to disappoint you, but that’s all we did for the day! After lunch and walk around the gardens, we headed back to our apartment to pack up our things and prepare to fly to Canada, where we would be setting up our new life, the kids would be enrolling in a Mandarin immersion school to maintain their Chinese ability, and my wife would be becoming a permanent resident upon landing!

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