The ultimate guide to visiting Vienna in December

Vienna in December transforms into a festive wonderland, with the warm glow of twinkling lights, lively Christmas markets, and the smell of glühwein (mulled wine) in the air. It’s a great time to explore Vienna’s iconic landmarks, like Schönbrunn Palace, with a light dusting of snow and the sound of carols echoing through the streets.

When you’re ready to escape the winter chill outside, duck into a historic coffeehouse, explore a world-class museum, or catch a Christmas concert at one of Vienna’s elegant venues, like the Musikverein. Embrace the festive period with this guide to what to do in Vienna in December.

Why go to Vienna in December?

December is the month of cheerful wintertime festivities

During December, Vienna transforms into a real-life winter wonderland, with twinkling lights draped across grand buildings, towering Christmas trees in public squares, and elaborate holiday decorations lighting up shop windows. Christmas markets fill the city’s historic streets with the smell of glühwein and roasted chestnuts, while seasonal activities like pop-up ice skating rinks and carousel rides offer plenty of festive family fun in Vienna.

There are plenty of places to stay warm indoors in Vienna

Winter in Vienna may be cold, but the city is full of indoor attractions and museums to duck inside. Wander the grand halls of Schönbrunn Palace, where lavish rooms tell the story of the Habsburg dynasty, or head to Hofburg Palace to see a collection of treasures like the Austrian Imperial Crown. The MuseumsQuartier houses some of Vienna’s best art museums, from the Leopold Museum for Austrian modern art to MUMOK for contemporary works. For even more art, head to Belvedere Palace, home to Klimt’s famous painting “The Kiss.”

You can watch a Christmas concert in the City of Music

You can’t go to Vienna in December without experiencing the city’s legendary music scene, which gets a festive twist during the holidays. Enjoy the majestic sound of a giant organ in St. Stephen’s Cathedral, or catch an intimate Christmas concert in the underground vaults of St. Peter's Church. For classical brilliance, visit the Musikverein or Konzerthaus, where festive concerts and gala events like “Christmas in Vienna” bring the season to life.

December is perfect for enjoying Vienna’s historic cafes

There’s no better time to embrace Vienna’s coffeehouse culture than on a chilly December afternoon. Step inside an elegant, historic cafe, order a rich Viennese coffee and a slice of apple strudel, and soak in the warmth and old-world charm. Check out iconic spots in the Innere Stadt (Inner City), such as Café Central and Café Sacher, with their ornate interiors steeped in history and relaxed, unhurried atmosphere that encourages you to stay as long as you please.

What’s the weather like in Vienna in December?

Vienna weather in December is cold, with average temperatures hovering around freezing and a chance of snow. Days are short and often overcast, so pack warm layers, a thick coat, a hat, gloves, and a scarf. Sturdy, water-resistant shoes are essential for walking comfortably on wet or snowy streets.

• Average day temperature: 36 F (2 C)
• Average night temperature: 28 F (-2 C)
• Average days of rain: 9 days
• Average hours of daylight: 8.5 hours

Top things to do in Vienna in December

1. Stroll through Wiener Christkindlmarkt

One of the best things to do in Vienna in December to get into the festive spirit is to visit Wiener Christkindlmarkt at Rathausplatz, the city's largest and most iconic Christmas market. During the holiday season, the central square is packed with 100 stalls selling handmade crafts, toys, and seasonal treats. Sip warming glühwein, snack on delicious spiced lebkuchen (gingerbread cookies), and admire the 30-meter-tall Christmas tree standing in pride of place in front of the Vienna City Hall.

You can also take to the ice on the small skating rink, ride the traditional carousel, or board the Ferris wheel for breathtaking views over the square. Don’t miss the Nativity Trail in Rathauspark, showcasing beautifully crafted nativity figures that tell the Christmas story.

Address

1010 Vienna

Opening hours

Daily, 10:00 AM–10:00 PM

2. Explore the historic Schönbrunn Palace

Escape the cold on a visit to the snow-dusted Schönbrunn Palace. Admire the palace’s baroque charm as you wander through the luxurious interiors and lavish state rooms like the Great Gallery, the Hall of Mirrors, where Mozart once performed, and Empress Maria Theresa’s apartments.

Take a guided tour to uncover the stories behind the iconic 17th-century palace, then warm up further with a strudel tasting or a Christmas concert in the Palace Orangery. Once you’re ready to brave the cold again, take a winter stroll in the frosty gardens or discover the enchanting Christmas market in the parade court outside, complete with children’s rides, an ice skating rink, and family-friendly festive workshops.

Address

Schönbrunner Schloßstraße 47, 1130 Wien

Opening hours

Palace: Open daily, 8:30 AM–5:00 PM

Christmas Market: Open daily, 10:00 AM–9:00 PM

3. See panoramic views from St. Stephen’s Cathedral

A visit to St. Stephen’s Cathedral in December promises not only a glimpse into the city’s history but also some of the best views in Vienna. Climb the South Tower for sweeping views of the city blanketed in snow, spotting famous landmarks like City Hall’s 322-foot (98-meter) tower and the Hofburg’s green dome. On clear days, you can see all the way to the distant snow-capped Eastern Alps, almost 300 miles (483 km) away.

Inside the cathedral, explore ancient relics and liturgical texts, or join a guided tour of the underground catacombs. In December, you can also enjoy evening Christmas concerts, with festive chamber music and beautiful Christmas carols by the Harmonia Ensemble Vienna.

Address

Stephansplatz 3, 1010 Wien

Opening hours

Monday–Saturday, 6:00 AM–10:00 PM

Sunday, 7:00 AM–10:00 PM

4. Explore the Inner City on a walking tour

Vienna’s Inner City is filled with Gassen (alleys) that date back to Roman times, made even more beautiful in the winter. Wrap up warm and take a stroll along the picturesque Griechengasse, once a part of the Greek merchants’ district and featuring 17th-century buildings. Or visit Ballgasse, a quieter alley lined with elegant residential buildings from the 18th century.

Walking tours of Vienna provide insight into the history of these alleys. Pass by must-see landmarks like the Anker Clock, built in 1914, and the Jesuit Church, a baroque church completed in 1627, along the way. It’s a photographer’s dream, perfect for capturing the timeless beauty of Vienna in winter. End your journey with a warming cup of Viennese coffee in one of the Inner City’s cozy cafes.

5. Cozy up at a concert in the Musikverein

December evenings in Vienna may be bitingly cold, but it’s the perfect excuse to head indoors and enjoy one of the city’s greatest treasures — music. The Musikverein, a grand concert hall with world-class acoustics, puts on many Christmas concerts to enjoy in the winter.

Expect stirring performances of beloved carols, traditional pieces, festive overtures, and even ballet suites like “The Nutcracker.” Don’t miss “Christmas in Vienna,” an annual gala blending classical music and popular Christmas carols.

Address

Musikvereinspl. 1, 1010 Wien

Opening hours

Hours vary by performance