Vienna turns into a winter wonderland each December. I’ve walked through the glowing Christmas markets and felt the magic myself.
This guide covers 17 amazing things to do in Vienna in December, from festive markets to grand palaces and classical concerts.
You’ll learn exactly what to see, where to go, and how to make the most of your trip. I’ve included practical tips on weather, transport, and what to pack.
Whether this is your first visit or you’re returning, you’ll find everything you need to plan a memorable December in Vienna.
Let’s get started.
Why Vienna is Magical in December
December changes Vienna into one of Europe’s most festive cities. The air smells like roasted chestnuts and mulled wine. Christmas markets light up every major square with thousands of twinkling lights.
The city feels different in winter. Historic buildings get dusted with snow. Streets glow warm against the cold night air. Classical music fills concert halls every evening.
Temperature ranges from 30°F to 40°F (-1°C to 4°C). Days are short but packed with indoor and outdoor activities. The festive season runs from mid-November through December, with markets staying open until Christmas Eve.
Vienna combines old-world charm with holiday spirit. You can visit imperial palaces in the morning and ice skate under the stars at night. The city stays lively without feeling crowded.
Top 17 Things to Do in Vienna in December
From festive Christmas markets to grand palaces and classical concerts, here’s your complete guide to Vienna in December.
1. Visit the Viennese Christmas Market at City Hall (Rathausplatz)
Vienna’s largest Christmas market has over 150 stalls selling crafts and treats. The ice skating rink wraps around the area.
Live music plays daily. Runs mid-November through December 26th. Entry is free.
2. Find the Christmas Village on St. Stephen’s Square (Stephansplatz)
This market sits at the cathedral’s base. Wooden huts sell handmade nativity scenes, glass ornaments, and mittens.
Try kartoffelpuffer with applesauce. Visit day and night for different views.
3. Wander through the Old Viennese Christmas Market on Freyung
Vienna’s most traditional market focuses on authentic craftsmanship. Artisans demonstrate glass blowing and candle making.
Musicians play classical carols. Less crowded than other markets.
4. Enjoy the Winter Market at Riesenrad Square (Prater)
The Prater market combines carnival fun with holiday tradition. The Ferris wheel offers sunset views. Most food stands in Vienna.
Kids love the carousel and rides. Open until early January.
5. Tour Hofburg Palace and Imperial Apartments (Kaiserappartements)
See Emperor Franz Joseph’s study and Empress Sisi’s dressing rooms. Audio guides included. The heated palace is perfect for cold days.
Allow two hours. Book online to skip lines.
6. Visit the Imperial Treasury (Kaiserliche Schatzkammer)
See 1,000 years of royal treasures including the Austrian Imperial Crown. The Holy Roman Empire Crown is over 1,000 years old.
Less crowded than Schönbrunn. Plan for 90 minutes.
7. Experience the Spanish Riding School (Spanische Hofreitschule)
Watch Lipizzaner horses perform classical dressage in a baroque hall. Morning training sessions are easier to get than performances.
The hall dates to 1735. Arrive early for better seats.
8. Find the Austrian National Library (Österreichische Nationalbibliothek)
The State Hall holds 200,000 ancient books on floor-to-ceiling shelves. Frescoed ceilings show history scenes.
Photography allowed without flash. Part of the Hofburg complex. Spend 45 minutes here.
9. Visit Schönbrunn Palace (Schloss Schönbrunn) and it’s Christmas Market
Tours show 40 of 1,441 rooms, including Maria Theresa’s apartments. The Christmas market sells handmade ornaments.
Gardens are peaceful and often snow-dusted. Allow half a day.
10. Tour the Belvedere Palace (Schloss Belvedere) and Gardens
Two palaces connected by formal gardens. House Klimt’s “The Kiss.” December means fewer tourists.
Cafe Menagerie serves coffee and pastries. Plan for two to three hours.
11. Seek the Museums Quarter (MuseumsQuartier, MQ)
MQ holds multiple museums and galleries. The Leopold Museum focuses on Austrian modern art.
December courtyard hosts a winter festival with fire pits and warm drinks.
12. Attend a Performance by Classic Ensemble Vienna
Chamber music at the Palais Auersperg featuring Mozart, Strauss, and Beethoven. Musicians wear period costumes.
December concerts include Christmas pieces. Shows run 90 minutes.
13. Enjoy a Concert by the Vienna Mozart Orchestra (Wiener Mozart Orchester)
Performs at the Golden Hall in the Musikverein. Mozart symphonies and opera highlights. Musicians wear 18th-century costumes.
Concerts last two hours. Book two to three weeks ahead.
14. Experience the Vienna Philharmonic (Wiener Philharmoniker) New Year’s Broadcast
Dress rehearsals on December 30th and 31st are easier to get tickets for.
The program focuses on Strauss waltzes and polkas. Broadcast live worldwide.
15. Visit St. Stephen’s Cathedral (Stephansdom) and Climb the Towers
The Gothic spire reaches 450 feet high. Climb 343 steps to the South Tower for city views.
December weather makes for clear viewing. Entry to the main church is free.
16. Ice Skate at the Vienna Ice World / Viennese Ice Dream (Rathausplatz)
Ice skating paths wind through City Hall park for over 9,000 square meters. Rental skates available.
Different paths suit different skill levels. Evening sessions run until 10 PM.
17. Relax in a Historic Viennese Coffee House (Cafe Landtmann, Cafe Central, or Cafe Hawelka)
Vienna’s coffee house culture is UNESCO-recognized. Cafe Central has vaulted ceilings. Cafe Landtmann was Freud’s favorite.
Order a melange and sachertorte. Stay as long as you want.
Practical Tips for Vienna in December
Plan your December visit with these helpful tips for transport, weather, and what to pack.
- The metro, trams, and buses connect all major sites. Single tickets cost €2.40, day passes are €8. The Vienna City Card includes transport plus museum discounts.
- December temperatures stay between 30°F and 40°F (-1°C to 4°C). Days are short with sunset around 4:30 PM. Plan outdoor activities before dark.
- Layer thermal underwear, a sweater, and a waterproof winter coat. Bring a warm hat, gloves, scarf, and waterproof boots with good grip for icy sidewalks.
- Pack an umbrella, a small backpack for market purchases, and hand warmers for outdoor visits. Most museums and cafes stay heated and comfortable inside.
- Book accommodation near a metro station in the First District for easy walking access. Districts 6, 7, and 8 offer cheaper options and stay central.
Conclusion
Vienna in December has stayed with me years after my visit. The glow of Christmas markets against historic buildings creates something special.
You now have a complete guide covering 17 things to do in Vienna in December, from grand palaces to cozy coffee houses.
The city offers enough for a week-long stay. Start with the Christmas markets at City Hall and St. Stephen’s Square. Add palace tours and evening concerts.
I’d love to hear which activities you choose. Leave a comment with your Vienna plans or share this guide with someone planning a trip.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I pack for Vienna in December?
Pack warm layers including thermal underwear, a winter coat, waterproof boots, gloves, a hat, and a scarf. Bring comfortable walking shoes for exploring markets and museums.
Are Vienna’s Christmas markets open every day in December?
Most Christmas markets run daily from mid-November through December 24th or 26th. They open around 10 AM and close between 9 PM and 10 PM.
How many days do I need to see Vienna in December?
Plan for four to five days to see major attractions without rushing. This gives you time for palaces, multiple Christmas markets, concerts, and museum visits.
Do I need to book concert tickets in advance?
Yes, book tickets two to three weeks ahead for popular concerts in December. The Vienna Philharmonic and major venues sell out quickly during the holiday season.
Is Vienna expensive to visit in December?
Vienna costs less than Paris or London but more than Eastern European cities. Museum entry runs €10 to €20. Budget €100 to €150 per day including accommodation, food, and activities.