Top Reasons to Visit Vienna in Winter: A Magical Christmas Experience (+ Local Expert Tips!)

Last Updated on September 13, 2024 by gregor

Planning a winter trip to Vienna? Whether you’re dreaming of strolling through the magical Vienna Christmas markets in December or seeking a romantic getaway for Valentine’s Day in February, Vienna’s winter charm is undeniable. With its festive atmosphere, twinkling lights, and cozy cafes, winter is the perfect time to experience the city’s unique blend of culture and holiday cheer.

In this guide, we’ll share the top reasons to visit Vienna in winter, from enchanting Christmas markets to picturesque snowy streets, along with expert tips on how to make the most of your trip. Bundle up and get ready to explore Vienna’s winter wonderland!

Here’s why.

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Top Reasons for Visiting Vienna at Christmas and Wintertime

The Viennese Christmas markets are magical.

Christmas markets are a treat throughout Europe, but the ones that pop up all over Vienna in winter have a little something extra: great views of Vienna!

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Consider picking up Christmas gifts for your loved ones (and plenty of mulled wine and sweets for yourself, of course) within sight of classic Vienna sites like St. Stephen’s Cathedral, Schönbrunn Palace, or the Belvedere Palace.

Want to mix it up? Head out to Christkindl Market to experience the biggest Christmas market in Vienna!

Ice skating in Vienna is a dream.

Ice skating is a classic Viennese winter tradition, and courts are set up all over Vienna–including at the Major house!

There’s no better city for museums than Vienna.

When visiting Vienna in the winter, there’s no reason to feel guilty about missing out on sunshine and cherry blossoms by ducking into some of Vienna’s truly spectacular museums.

The Albertina Museum and the Kunsthistorische Museum are the best known (and they are truly wonderful), but you can also consider checking out these BEST 12 MUSEUMS to visit in Vienna.

THE BEST 12 MUSEUMS YOU NEED TO VISIT IN VIENNA, AUSTRIA TRAVEL GUIDE (UPDATE 2022)

AlbertinaMuseumVienna — Albertina Museum Vienna

Cozying up at a café with traditional Viennese Coffee is a wonderful Viennese experience.

People-watching is an iconic Viennese tradition, and there’s no cozier time to do it than during winter in Vienna!

Pick an adorable café (preferably with a large window), grab a Viennese Coffee and a Sacher Cake and enjoy watching the city go by.

BEST COFFEEHOUSES IN THE CITY CENTER OF VIENNA, AUSTRIA

It’s the perfect time to learn to make a Viennese Strudel.

Winter in Vienna is the perfect time to duck inside for a Vienna Strudel cooking show!

Enjoy the impressive Strudel Show in the court bakery of the Café Residenz in Vienna. See how traditional Viennese apple strudel is made and enjoy tasting a warm, freshly baked piece of the popular delicacy at the end of the show.

Book your Vienna: Strudel Show with Tasting at Schönbrunn Palace

Visit the Vienna Opera house.

The winter is the height of Vienna’s opera season, so there’s no better time to book a ticket, get dressed up, and head out for a very classy night on the town.

One of the finest operas in Europe, the Vienna Opera House is known for its first-class ballet and opera performances. Along with stunning Renaissance architecture that builds the perfect mood as you walk past some of the greatest artistic works in the world.

ViennaStateOpera_theviennablog — Vienna State Opera

Vienna’s City Center shops have epic Christmas decor.

Vienna’s department stores may not be the first place that you think of when considering sightseeing, but the Christmas decor is impeccable!

If you only go to one place, be sure to stop by the City Center Graben, Kärntnerstrasse, and Kohlmarkt the Luxury stores put up stunning Christmas decorations each year!

LUXURY SHOPPING IN VIENNA GUIDE (STORES, MAP AND VIDEO GUIDE)

A long walk through the streets of Vienna is incredibly magical.

This may be true at any time of year, but there’s just something extra special about the streets of Vienna in winter: the streets are a little emptier, the city a little quieter, and the air a little thinner.

It’s peaceful, it’s magical, it’s romantic, and it’s the quintessential Vienna experience–don’t leave Vienna without at least one hour-long walk through the streets!

VIENNA CITY CENTER – SNOWFALL WALKING TOUR VIDEO WINTER IN AUSTRIA ASMR

Winter & Snow photography in Vienna

If you are thinking of traveling to Vienna in wintertime, here are 15 photos that might just make you book a flight to this amazing city! Vienna, the capital of Austria and one of the most elegant cities in Europe, is a must-visit any time of the year. Especially in the wintertime, the city offers many unique experiences such as magical Christmas markets and streetlights all over

ViennaSnowPhotography — Vienna Snow photography, St Peter’s Church, City Center in Vienna

There are great travel deals during winter in Vienna.

After Christmas, you’ll be able to find some of the best Vienna travel deals of the year during winter–especially on lodging and airfare.

Vienna’s spas are happy to pamper you.

Vienna is a city of luxury, and what’s more luxurious than a spa?

Pick a couple of treatments and a day to splurge, and you can have a truly Viennese experience without ever stepping a foot outside.

You can eat your heart out in Vienna Sausages.

Viennese Sausages are the unofficial street food of Vienna and stand doling out Sausages in delicious varieties like the Käsekrainer and the Bratwurst and more dot dozens of street corners around the city.

Here is everything you always wanted to know about Viennese Sausages and where you can eat them. ULTIMATE GUIDE TO VIENNESE SAUSAGES IN VIENNA AND WÜRSTELSTAND LOCATIONS, AUSTRIA

Celebrating a holiday in Vienna is incredibly special.

With Christmas, New Year’s, Valentine’s Day, and the Ball season to name a few–winter in Vienna is bursting with holiday celebrations.

Join in the fun and add an extra layer of excitement to your winter Vienna trip by planning it around a special holiday!

Top10ViennaPhotoInstagramNikon_theviennablog — Vienna Christmas Markets Michaeler Tor

ViennaChristmasMarkets — Vienna Christmas Markets

Where to eat in Vienna, Austria

Some of the places below which I can highly recommend (as a local).

Vienna Heuriger (Wine Taverns)

If you are visiting Vienna you definitely need to visit a Heuriger (=wine taverns). Here is a complete guide to the Best Heuriger in Vienna, so you can taste the sweet life of the Viennese and enjoy some wine tasting in Vienna.

BEST HEURIGER IN VIENNA – COMPLETE GUIDE TO THE WINE TAVERNS IN VIENNA

Wiener Schnitzel

Wiener Schnitzel is said to be one of the best food items Vienna has to offer. Here is All the information on where you can get the best Wiener Schnitzel in Vienna.

WHERE TO EAT THE BEST WIENER SCHNITZEL IN VIENNA (RESTAURANT TIPS + PRICES!)

Best Breakfast and Best Brunch in Vienna

Viennese are fond of big breakfasts, they make sure they start the day right with Viennese Coffee and freshly baked Semmeln or Kipferl. If a pastry and coffee don’t suffice, pop into one of the many cafés and bars that serve up a vast array of delicious breakfast options, from traditional Viennese pastries to bacon, eggs, bagels, and fruit smoothies.

THE BEST BREAKFAST BRUNCH SPOTS IN VIENNA, WIEN AUSTRIA UPDATE 2022

Wiener Würstelstand – Viennese Sausages

Wurstelstand translated to English means “Sausage booth”, giving the space a remarkably accurate description. These are snack bars that sell a wide range of drinks and ready-to-eat sausages. Offering directly to the sausage culture in Vienna, it fits in perfectly.

These stands are commonly found outside subway stations, and tram stops. Offering the everyday commuter and tourists a taste of the best sausage Vienna has to offer.

ULTIMATE GUIDE TO VIENNESE SAUSAGES IN VIENNA AND WÜRSTELSTAND LOCATIONS, AUSTRIA

The Viennese café culture

Viennese Cafe Tradition dates back a few hundred years. It is a very social and relaxing activity for locals in which many people order typical Viennese coffee and a slice of Viennese cake as well. Because of the popularity of coffee culture, many old Viennese coffee houses are still around and even with the original and traditional decor.

BEST COFFEEHOUSES IN THE CITY CENTER OF VIENNA, AUSTRIA

What to eat in Vienna, Austria

Typical Viennese Cuisine

Austria was once at the center of the Habsburg Empire, which covered everything from Russia to France. This is why Austria has embraced many ethnic dishes when it comes to cuisines. The range of dishes from all across Europe showcases Vienna’s multicultural influence. For instance, the coffee-drinking tradition was brought to Vienna by the Turkish Army. Similarly, there are a number of other dishes that have been brought in from all around Europe that is today a huge part of the Viennese food culture. The Viennese dishes are packed with local flavors, yet offer a great twist when it comes to taste.

The next time you are in Vienna, we suggest you try out some of the ultimate top ten Viennese Foods we have listed down, otherwise, you will be missing out on a complete experience.

These are the Ultimate 10 Viennese Foods to Taste

Sachertorte – the most famous Austrian cake which is a chocolate cake with thin layers of apricot jam
Apfelstrudel – a classic Austrian dessert, apple strudel made with thin pastry, stuffed with apples, cinnamon, breadcrumbs, and raisins
Kaiserschmarrn – a Viennese delicacy where cut pancake is served in a pan with stewed plums and apple puree
Palatschinken – a thin pancake with apricot jam
Buchteln – Are sweet yeast rolls packed with a hidden treasure
Punschkrapfen – Is a punch cake, that features a gorgeous hot pink crumb cake filled with, apricot jam, nougat chocolate, and soaked in rum
Wiener Schnitzel – a premium cut of veal cutlet, breaded and fried in butter
Tafelspitz – This is a national dish consisting of a whole tailpiece of beef cooked in a broth with root vegetables, sliced and served usually with apple or breadcrumbs, baked potatoes or potato marrows as well as a dill-cream sauce.
Goulash – originated from Hungary, stewed beef cooked in a thick gravy of paprika and garlic
Vienna Sausages – different types can be purchased as street food

You have to try some of the typical Viennese food: (More Viennese Cuisine Details)

Is Vienna a safe city?

Vienna is one of the safest cities in the world, which makes Austria one of the best solo destinations for solo travelers.

Solo Travel to Vienna Tips

Vienna is a great place to travel solo, as you can people-watch and appreciate everything in a different way than you would with your partner. You can also easily meet people in Vienna too as there are many solo travelers in the city and many families as well – my kids have a blast every time they go!

Here is the Blog Post about Vienna Solo Traveler Tips – Top Things to Do and See

How to save money when traveling to Vienna?

To save money when traveling to Vienna, consider staying in a hostel or Airbnb, taking public transportation, and eating at budget-friendly restaurants. Additionally, visit free attractions such as parks and museums, and take advantage of discounts for students and seniors.

By following these tips, you can experience all that Vienna has to offer without breaking the bank.

VIENNA BUDGET TRAVEL GUIDE, FREE THINGS TO DO IN VIENNA, AUSTRIA IN 2022

BEST THINGS TO DO IN VIENNA ON A BUDGET

VIENNA – TOP FREE MUSEUMS AND THEATERS TO DO ON A BUDGET

What to do in Vienna in Winter and Christmastime?

Wintertime in Vienna is a magical experience that has made weekend gateways in the city popular, especially just before Christmas. Families, couples, and solo travelers arrive in Vienna from all over Austria and the world to visit the many Christmas markets with their Christmas ornaments and seasonal food and beverage.

Here is a complete Guide: Your Vienna winter itinerary of things to do in Vienna in December, and things to do at Christmas time. This is a full Christmas guide to Vienna including Viennese Christmas Markets recommendations and a Christmas food guide

Best Day Trips from Vienna

Whatever your reason for wanting a day trip just outside of Vienna, we can assure you that there are numerous hidden gems and villages clustered along with the capital that can be explored or enjoyed during a one-day trip.

Whether you plan to travel alone, with friends, or with family, these day-trip destinations will have something for everyone to enjoy.

Is Christmas a good time to visit Vienna?

Visiting Vienna during Christmas can be a wonderful experience, but it’s important to consider both the advantages and potential challenges of a holiday visit. Here are some points to consider:
Magical Atmosphere: Vienna is known for its enchanting Christmas markets, and the city truly comes alive with festive decorations and lights during the holiday season.
Christmas Markets: Vienna’s Christmas markets, like the ones at Rathausplatz and Belvedere Palace, offer a wide range of holiday treats, handcrafted gifts, and a warm, cheerful ambiance.
Concerts and Performances: Enjoy classical concerts, operas, and ballet performances that are particularly popular during the Christmas season.
Historical Charm: The city’s imperial palaces and historic sites are especially charming with a dusting of snow and holiday decorations.
Cultural Experiences: Explore Vienna’s museums, galleries, and exhibitions, which provide a cozy respite from the winter chill.
Delicious Food: Savor traditional Austrian Christmas dishes like roast goose, spiced mulled wine (Glühwein), and delightful pastries.
Challenges: However, it’s essential to be prepared for larger crowds and potential price increases during this peak tourist season.
Weather: Vienna can be quite cold and snowy in December, so dress warmly and be ready for winter weather.
Early Planning: Accommodations and tours can book up quickly, so it’s advisable to plan and make reservations well in advance.
Unique Souvenirs: Christmas markets are an excellent place to find unique and handcrafted gifts for your loved ones.

Does it snow in Vienna during Christmas?

Vienna often experiences snowfall in December, creating a picturesque and festive atmosphere during Christmas.
While it’s not guaranteed, the city does have a fair chance of having a white Christmas.

What is the weather like in Vienna during Christmas?

In Vienna, the weather during Christmas varies, but it generally falls within the winter season. Here’s a breakdown in points:
Cold Temperatures: Vienna experiences cold weather during Christmas, with temperatures typically ranging from -2°C to 5°C (28°F to 41°F).
Possibility of Snow: While a white Christmas is not guaranteed, there is a good chance of snowfall, which can add to the festive atmosphere.
Short Days: The days are short, with daylight lasting around 8 hours, so it’s important to plan your outdoor activities accordingly and make the most of the limited daylight hours.
Dress Warmly: Layered clothing, including a heavy coat, gloves, and a hat, is essential to stay comfortable in Vienna’s winter weather during the Christmas season.

Is everything closed on Christmas Day in Vienna?

Most retail shops, businesses, and banks are typically closed on Christmas Day.
Public transportation operates on a limited schedule, so it’s essential to check timetables in advance.
Tourist attractions, some restaurants, and cafes may be open, but it’s recommended to make reservations or check specific opening hours in advance.
Christmas markets usually close on Christmas Day, so plan your visit for the days leading up to Christmas for the full market experience.

Is it worth going to Vienna in winter?

Vienna in winter is absolutely worth it. The city’s enchanting Christmas markets, picturesque snow-covered scenery, and cozy atmosphere make it a perfect destination for a winter getaway.

What happens at Christmas in Vienna?

At Christmas time, Vienna transforms into a magical wonderland with numerous festive activities and traditions to enjoy:
Christmas Markets: Vienna is renowned for its charming Christmas markets. The city hosts several markets, including the famous Christkindlmarkt at Rathausplatz, where you can shop for handcrafted gifts, and ornaments and sample local delicacies.
Decorations: The city is adorned with enchanting Christmas lights, stunning decorations, and impressive seasonal displays. The Ringstrasse boulevard and historic buildings are particularly breathtaking.
Ice Skating: Vienna offers several ice skating rinks, with one of the most popular located in front of City Hall. It’s a great place to enjoy some winter sports.
Classical Concerts: Vienna is synonymous with classical music, and during Christmas, you can attend special concerts featuring renowned orchestras and choirs performing traditional carols and classical pieces.
Gingerbread and Cookies: Savor delicious holiday treats such as gingerbread cookies, roasted chestnuts, and traditional Austrian pastries like Vanillekipferl.
Vienna Boys’ Choir: Catch a performance by the world-famous Vienna Boys’ Choir, who often have special Christmas concerts.
Advent Wreaths: Lighting Advent wreaths is a cherished tradition. You can see these wreaths with four candles, one for each Sunday in Advent, in homes, churches, and public spaces.
Nativity Scenes: Explore the various nativity scenes displayed around the city, some of which are incredibly detailed and artistic.
Christmas Mass: Attend a Christmas Eve Mass at one of Vienna’s stunning churches, like St. Stephen’s Cathedral or Karlskirche, to experience a traditional Austrian Christmas service.
New Year’s Eve: While not Christmas itself, Vienna’s New Year’s Eve celebration is spectacular. Join the crowd at Silvesterpfad (New Year’s Path) in the city center and enjoy music, fireworks, and the famous “Pummerin” bell ringing at midnight from St. Stephen’s Cathedral.
Vienna during Christmas is a place where the spirit of the season truly comes to life, making it a memorable destination for anyone seeking a festive and enchanting holiday experience.

What should I wear to Vienna for Christmas?

Vienna during Christmas can be quite chilly, so it’s essential to dress warmly and comfortably. Here’s a guideline for what to wear during your Christmas visit to Vienna:
Warm Layers: Start with a thermal or woolen base layer to keep you warm. Add sweaters or cardigans for extra insulation.
Coat: A heavy, insulated coat or a warm jacket is a must. Make sure it’s windproof to shield you from Vienna’s cold gusts.
Scarf, Gloves, and Hat: Don’t forget these accessories. They’re not just for fashion but will keep you comfortable in the cold.
Thermal Underwear: If you plan to spend a lot of time outdoors, consider thermal pants or leggings as well.
Warm Footwear: Insulated and waterproof boots are a great choice. Make sure they have good traction, as streets can be slippery.
Warm Socks: Woolen or thermal socks will keep your feet toasty.
Layered Clothing: Layering is key, as it allows you to adjust your clothing as you move between heated indoor spaces and the cold outdoors.
Quality Umbrella: Vienna often experiences rain or snow during the winter, so having a sturdy, wind-resistant umbrella is a good idea.
Stylish Outfits: Vienna is a fashionable city, so you may want to bring some dressier outfits for special occasions.
Comfortable Walking Shoes: You Will likely be exploring the city on foot, so ensure you have comfortable, waterproof shoes for walking.

My Vienna Travel Video Guides

Watch this playlist on YouTube