Austria,  Europe

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.

Belvedere Palace in Vienna with snow and frozen fountain in front

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.

Why Visit Vienna in Winter

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.

December

  • 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.

January

  • 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.

February

  • 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.

Best Time to Go to Vienna in Winter

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

1. Visit the Christmas Markets in Vienna

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.

2. Take a Horse Carriage Ride Through Vienna

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.

Things to Do in Schönbrunn in Winter

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 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.

Schönbrunn Christmas Market

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.

How to Get to Schönbrunn Castle

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.

Belvedere castle baroque building in front big flower beds and pond

Belvedere in Winter

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.

picture of the belvedere castle in vienna with the christmas market in front of it

How to Get to the Belvedere

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.

How to Get to the Hofburg

Public transport lines take you directly to the Hofburg

Underground: U3 (orange), alight at Herrengasse

6. Explore the Spanish Riding School of Vienna

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.

7. Saint Stephens Cathedral

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.

8. Take a Walking Tour Through the City Center

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:

9. Take a Day Trip to Hallstatt

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:

picture of hallstatt unseco world heritage view

10. Visit a Concert

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.

11. Go to a Fabulous Ball

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.

picture of famous opera house in vienna

12. Go Ice Skating at the Vienna Eistraum

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 8,500m2. 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 afterwards.

13. Go to the Vienna Opera

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.

14. Get a Bird’s Eye View of Vienna

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.

picture of the big ferris wheel in vienna covered in snow

15. Participate in Austrian Christmas Traditions

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.

Christmas Market on the Rathausplatz (Town Hall Square)

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)

Altwiener Christkindlmarkt am Freyung

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

Weihnachtsmarkt at the Maria Theresien Platz

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

Schönbrunn Christmas Market

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
picture of the christmas market in front of schoenbrunn palace

Adventmarkt at the Karlskirche

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 20:00 pm

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

Weihnachtsmarkt Stephansplatz

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

What to Eat in Vienna in Winter

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.

Basic Info to Know Before Visiting Vienna in Winter

  • 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.

Vienna Christmas Bucket List of Things to Do

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

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 Vienna

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.

What to Pack for Winter in Vienna

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.
  • Winter 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

Conclusion: Winter in Vienna

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

FAQ: Winter in Vienna

Is Vienna worth visiting in Winter?

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.

Does Vienna have snow?

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.

Is Vienna too cold in December?

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.

How many days in Vienna is enough?

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.

What to wear in December in Austria?

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.

Do they speak English in Vienna?

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.

How old is Vienna?

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.

Is Vienna worth visiting in January?

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.

Is Vienna walkable?

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.

blonde girl pink dress in front of blue door santorini

About the Author

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.