56 Things to Do in Vienna in December

Experience the magic of Vienna's most famous Christmas market, set against the stunning backdrop of City Hall. With over 150 stalls, it's the perfect place to find unique gifts, enjoy festive treats, and soak in the holiday spirit.

Tip: Arrive early to avoid the biggest crowds, especially on weekends.

Discover a charming Christmas market set in the picturesque courtyard of Schönbrunn Palace. It's known for its traditional crafts and a more intimate atmosphere compared to the larger markets.

Tip: Don't miss the illuminated gardens for an extra magical experience.

Enjoy a more traditional Viennese Christmas market experience at Belvedere Palace, offering a refined atmosphere and a selection of artisanal goods.

Tip: This market is often praised for its more relaxed vibe.

Wander through the narrow, charming streets of Spittelberg to find a unique Christmas market known for its arts and crafts and cozy ambiance.

Tip: Explore the side streets for hidden gems and unique finds.

Immerse yourself in world-class opera or ballet at the iconic Vienna State Opera. Even if you don't catch a full performance, a guided tour offers a glimpse into its grandeur.

Tip: Consider purchasing cheap standing room tickets for a more affordable experience.

Marvel at the Gothic architecture of St. Stephen's Cathedral, a true Viennese landmark. Climb its towers for panoramic city views, especially stunning with winter lights.

Tip: Climbing the South Tower offers the most rewarding views.

Explore the vast Hofburg Palace, the former imperial residence. Discover the Sisi Museum, Imperial Apartments, and Silver Collection for a deep dive into Habsburg history.

Tip: Allocate at least half a day to fully explore the palace complex.

Wander through one of the world's most important art museums, housing masterpieces from antiquity to the Baroque period, including works by Bruegel and Vermeer.

Tip: The museum is open on December 25th, making it a great option for Christmas Day.

Step into the breathtaking State Hall of the Austrian National Library, a Baroque masterpiece filled with ancient books and stunning frescoes. It feels like a journey back in time.

Tip: The library is a quiet escape from the bustling city streets.

Discover a vast collection of graphic arts, from Old Masters to contemporary works, at the Albertina. Its impressive permanent collection and rotating exhibitions are a must-see for art lovers.

Tip: Check their current exhibitions; they often feature unique and exciting shows.

Engage with music in a fun and interactive way at the Haus der Musik. You can even conduct a virtual orchestra, making it a unique experience for all ages.

Tip: Great for families and anyone looking for a lively, engaging museum experience.

Visit the world's oldest zoo, located within the Schönbrunn Palace grounds. It's a charming place to see a variety of animals in a historic setting.

Tip: Combine your visit with a stroll through Schönbrunn Palace gardens.

Experience a new, free, and immersive exhibition featuring light, music, and lasers. It's a modern and captivating art installation that's a hidden gem.

Tip: Open daily from 6 PM to 10 PM, perfect for an evening activity.

Go ice skating on the massive 'Wiener Eistraum' rink set up in front of the City Hall. It's a quintessential Viennese winter activity with a magical atmosphere.

Tip: Check opening times as it's a seasonal event, typically running from mid-November to early March.

Find the iconic giant red bow, a popular spot for festive photos during the Christmas season. It's a simple yet delightful visual marker of the holidays.

Tip: Located near Zara Home, it's easy to find while exploring the city center.

Experience a magical walk through Schönbrunn Park adorned with dazzling light installations, music, and festive decorations during the winter months.

Tip: This event typically runs from early November to early January.

See the 'Infinity of Light' installation, a glowing loop above the Votive Church, which has become a new, captivating landmark for the city.

Tip: This installation is often present during the winter months.

Take a trip up Kahlenberg hill for breathtaking panoramic views of Vienna and the surrounding Danube landscape, especially beautiful on a clear winter day.

Tip: Dress warmly as it can be quite cold and windy at the top.

Visit the Belvedere Museum to admire Gustav Klimt's 'The Kiss' and other masterpieces of Austrian art in a stunning Baroque palace setting.

Tip: The museum is open on December 25th, offering a cultural option on Christmas Day.

Explore the former practice and apartment of Sigmund Freud, the father of psychoanalysis. It offers a fascinating glimpse into his life and work.

Tip: A unique stop for those interested in psychology and history.

Discover the wonders of the natural world at the Natural History Museum, home to impressive dinosaur skeletons, ancient artifacts, and a vast collection of specimens.

Tip: Located directly opposite the Kunsthistorisches Museum, making it easy to visit both.

Step back in time at Café Central, a grand historic coffee house once frequented by intellectuals and artists. Enjoy traditional Viennese coffee and pastries in an opulent setting.

Tip: Expect a queue, but the experience is worth the wait.

Indulge in exquisite pastries and traditional Viennese cakes at Demel, a former imperial court confectioner. It's a perfect spot to try Kaiserschmarrn.

Tip: Watch the pastry chefs at work through the glass windows.

Experience Viennese coffee house culture at Café Landtmann, a classic establishment known for its elegant atmosphere and delicious cakes.

Tip: Cakes are available to go, perfect for enjoying in a nearby park.

Enjoy a peaceful stroll through Volksgarten, a beautiful public park known for its rose gardens (though less vibrant in winter) and the Theseus Temple.

Tip: A lovely spot for a quiet moment or to enjoy a takeaway treat.

Witness the graceful movements of the Lipizzaner stallions at the Spanish Riding School. You can attend a performance or a morning exercise session.

Tip: Book tickets well in advance, especially for performances.

Consider purchasing a Vienna Pass for convenient access to numerous attractions, hop-on hop-off buses, and discounts across the city.

Tip: Calculate if the pass is cost-effective based on the attractions you plan to visit.

Experience a beautiful and intimate Christmas concert in the historic setting of St. Peter's Church, offering a serene musical escape.

Tip: A calmer alternative to larger, more crowded events.

Explore Vienna's most popular market, Naschmarkt, offering a vibrant array of food stalls, international cuisine, and local produce. It's a feast for the senses.

Tip: Great for sampling different foods and picking up edible souvenirs.

Visit the charming Am Hof Christmas Market, known for its traditional atmosphere and unique handicrafts, set in a historic square.

Tip: Often considered one of the more authentic Christmas markets.

Discover a fascinating collection of timepieces spanning centuries at the Clock Museum. It's a small but incredibly interesting museum.

Tip: A hidden gem for those looking for something a bit different.

Explore the Museum of Applied Arts (MAK) for its diverse collections of furniture, textiles, and contemporary design, offering a different perspective on art and craft.

Tip: Check their exhibitions for unique design-focused displays.

Take a ride on the Vienna Ring Tram to see the city's grand architecture and historical buildings along the famous Ringstrasse.

Tip: A great way to get an overview of the city's main sights.

While some attractions might be seasonal, the iconic Wiener Riesenrad (Giant Ferris Wheel) in Prater offers year-round views of the city.

Tip: The Ferris wheel operates year-round, offering a unique perspective.

Visit the Wien Museum at Karlsplatz to learn about the history of Vienna through its extensive collections and exhibitions.

Tip: Often has interesting temporary exhibitions alongside its permanent collection.

Descend into the Imperial Crypt, the burial place of the Habsburg emperors and empresses, a solemn and historically significant site.

Tip: A quiet and reflective experience.

Explore the vibrant MuseumsQuartier, a cultural hub with several museums, cafes, and public spaces. It's a great place to soak in the city's modern cultural scene.

Tip: Even in winter, the courtyards are lively and offer a unique atmosphere.

Admire the impressive architecture of the Vienna State Chancellery, part of the grand Rathaus complex, and a significant building in the city's political heart.

Tip: Often accessible for exterior viewing and photography.

Visit the beautiful Baroque St. Peter's Church, known for its stunning interior and often hosting classical music performances.

Tip: A peaceful sanctuary in the heart of the city.

Marvel at the magnificent Neo-Gothic architecture of Vienna's City Hall. It's a prominent landmark, especially when illuminated during the Christmas season.

Tip: The building itself is an architectural highlight.

Stroll through Maria Theresien Platz, a grand square flanked by the Kunsthistorisches Museum and the Naturhistorisches Museum, offering impressive views and a central meeting point.

Tip: A great spot for photos with the museums as a backdrop.

Admire the stunning Baroque architecture of Karlskirche (St. Charles Church), a prominent landmark on Karlsplatz, often featuring in winter cityscapes.

Tip: The area around Karlskirche is often lively with markets and events.

Take a guided tour of the Vienna State Opera to explore its opulent interiors, learn about its history, and discover the backstage areas.

Tip: Tours are available in multiple languages and offer a great insight.

Visit the unique and colorful Hundertwasserhaus, an apartment building designed by artist Friedensreich Hundertwasser, known for its unconventional architecture.

Tip: While you can't enter the apartments, the exterior is a must-see.

Explore the Imperial Treasury at the Hofburg Palace to see the crown jewels of the Holy Roman Empire and Austria, along with other priceless treasures.

Tip: A fascinating glimpse into the wealth and power of the Habsburg dynasty.

Utilize the hop-on hop-off bus tours included with the Vienna Pass to easily navigate between major attractions and get a comprehensive city overview.

Tip: A great way to cover a lot of ground without the hassle of public transport.

Experience a smaller, more intimate Christmas market located right in front of the magnificent St. Stephen's Cathedral, offering a festive atmosphere in a central location.

Tip: Combine with a visit to the cathedral itself.

Venture into the Vienna Woods for a breath of fresh air and scenic winter walks. It's a vast natural area offering a peaceful escape from the city.

Tip: Accessible by public transport, offering a natural retreat.

Visit the Upper Belvedere to see Gustav Klimt's 'The Kiss' and other significant works of Austrian art, set within a stunning Baroque palace.

Tip: The museum is open on December 25th, making it a good option for Christmas Day.

Explore the Imperial Carriage Museum at Schönbrunn Palace to see the magnificent carriages and ceremonial vehicles used by the Habsburgs.

Tip: Located within the Schönbrunn Palace complex, easy to combine with other attractions.

Consider the Vienna Pass for unlimited travel on public transport and free entry to many attractions, making city exploration seamless.

Tip: A cost-effective option if you plan to visit many paid attractions.

Discover the unique charm of the Spittelberg Christmas Market, nestled in a historic district with narrow streets, known for its artisan crafts and cozy atmosphere.

Tip: This market is praised for its authentic feel and unique vendors.

Use the hop-on hop-off bus service included with the Vienna Pass to efficiently visit multiple sights across the city, especially useful in winter.

Tip: A great way to get acquainted with the city's layout.

Experience the 'Art Advent' market at Karlsplatz, known for its focus on arts, crafts, and organic food, offering a more curated and artisanal Christmas experience.

Tip: Often considered one of the most charming and unique markets.

Benefit from unlimited travel on Vienna's efficient public transport system with the Vienna Pass, making it easy to get around the city in the winter.

Tip: Ideal for exploring different neighborhoods and attractions.