10 Enchanting Reasons to Visit Vienna This Winter — Travel Guide to Visiting Palaces, Markets & Music
Christkindlmarkt in Vienna
If you haven’t been to Vienna, come see why this enchanting capital is consistently ranked one of the best cities in the world. With world-class culture, grand imperial architecture, and a festive spirit that takes over every corner, Vienna truly shines in winter and is a city you will truly want to experience.
We visited in December to explore the Christmas Markets and were completely swept away — the palaces were twinkling with Christmas lights, the scent of mulled wine filled the air, and every plaza seemed to host its own magical Christmas market. Vienna is such a fun city to explore and winter gives it a fresh festive atmosphere. On top of the Christmas markets dotted throughout the city, we loved popping into the elegant coffee houses - more like coffee palaces in some cases - and enjoyed warming up with a delicious Viennese coffee before exploring more of this beautiful city.
If you are thinking about visiting Europe this winter, here are 10 enchanting reasons to make Vienna your destination this winter, plus our travel tips, favorite experiences, and tour recommendations to make your trip unforgettable.
1. Visit the Majestic Schönbrunn Palace
Schönbrunn Palace
No trip to Vienna is complete without visiting Schönbrunn Palace, the former summer residence of the Habsburgs. In winter, the palace is even more stunning, surrounded by festive stalls selling handmade crafts and holiday treats.
Why Go:
Vienna’s crown jewel, the baroque Schönbrunn Palace, is incredible year round — its baroque architecture, vast gardens, and imperial rooms are spectacular any time of year, but in winter, it’s even more captivating. The facade of the palace is truly impressive and if you are lucky it may even have a layer of snow giving it that extra festive feeling. The inside is absolutely incredible and shows the opulence of the Habsburg empire and is well worth a tour! The palace is absolutely worth it and even though the gardens are not in bloom, the parks and walkways are still beautiful to walk through (and offer some amazing photo opportunities).
Book It:
We recommend booking a Skip-the-Line Schönbrunn Palace Tour so you avoid queues/lines especially for the Imperial Apartments & the Christmas Market (if it’s open when you visit), or if you prefer to explore on your own - book your tickets in advance here.
Pro-Tip:
Visit early or around sunset to capture stunning photos with fewer crowds. Don’t miss the Gloriette viewpoint for sweeping city views (this was one of our favorites!). If you enjoy palace tours and architecture, don’t miss visiting the state apartments (another one of our favorites!). Remember to book your tickets in advance — lines can be long during Christmas season. While it is possible to get tickets the same day, expect to wait in a long queue/line to enter if you don’t book in advance.
Why We Loved It:
We found the mix of grandeur and quiet winter ambiance unbeatable. Standing in front of the palace with a glass of mulled wine from the Christmas market felt like stepping into a holiday movie with the palace beautifully decorated. We loved the festive atmosphere and wandering through the palace and gardens makes you gaze in awe at the glamorous architecture and ceiling frescoes.
2. Explore Vienna’s Legendary Coffee Culture
One of our favorite things about Vienna is its coffee culture and beautiful cafes. Vienna’s cafes truly are the heart of its social life. Cozy up with a Viennese coffee or cappuccino and a slice of Sachertorte at Café Central, Café Sacher, or Demel. These historic spots are perfect to warm up between market visits and the coffee is just as incredible as the ambiance. Perfect for warming up after wandering around Vienna.
Why Go:
Vienna’s coffeehouses are cultural landmarks — elegant, timeless, and warm havens from the winter chill. The interiors are ornate, the pastries delicious, and the ambience perfect for both warming up and soaking in local culture. Great for a quick snack and hot drink or for relaxing and people watching.
Book It:
While you can easily wander around to the different coffeehouses on your own, if you are interested in learning more about the history and cultural significance we recommend booking a Vienna Coffeehouse Walking Tour — visit iconic cafés like Café Central, Demel, and Café Sacher. If you plan to explore on your own, you can pre-book at famous places like Café Sacher to avoid wait times for signature items like the Sachertorte.
Pro-Tip:
Order a Wiener Melange (Viennese cappuccino) with a slice of Sachertorte. Visit between meal rushes for the best ambiance and fewer lines. Also, if you plan on just getting a small items or two, bring cash; some older cafés don’t like credit cards for small items. Lastly, cafés fill up around lunch or early evening — go between traditional mealtimes.
Why We Loved It:
For us, we loved visiting Cafe Central with its marble columns, live piano music, and historical aura that made it the perfect mid-day retreat. It was a welcome relaxation moment, where warm drinks & cake helped us recover from chilly walks between markets. Even if you aren’t a coffee drinker, visiting a Viennese cafe is a delightful experience.
3. Explore the Historic Hofburg Palace & Take a Carriage Ride
Hofburg Palace
The Hofburg Palace complex is beautiful in winter, with horse-drawn carriages trotting past and lights illuminating the grand facades. Inside, you can explore the Imperial Apartments or the Sisi Museum.
Why Go:
The Hofburg Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site, was the winter residence of the Habsburgs — and truly displays the imperial opulence of the time period. It’s central, full of museums, and beautifully lit in the winter evenings. Additionally, you can take a romantic carriage ride outside Hofburg — one of the most memorable ways to see Vienna in its holiday glow.
Book It:
If you prefer learning more about the history and culture of the Hofburg Palace, we recommend booking a guided skip the line tour such as this one. If you prefer, you can explore on your own by booking tickets here. In either case with either the guided tour or exploring on your own, we recommend combining your visit with a carriage ride through the old town!
Pro-Tip:
Evenings are ideal for carriage rides when the palace is illuminated. For the carriage ride, there are licensed Fiaker carriages around the Hofburg — no formal booking necessary, though you can try a private ride with a tour provider. Be sure to bring gloves — the Viennese night air can be bitingly cold!
Why We Loved It:
The contrast between the opulence inside and the cold shimmering streets outside was striking. The carriage rides give it more of that winter feel, gliding through the city - it feels like you are transported to a different time period - making it feel even more special.
4. Visit the Christkindlmarkt & Rathausplatz Christmas Markets
Vienna Christkindlmarkt
Vienna’s Christmas markets are some of our absolute favorite. They have a fantastic festive atmosphere and there are tons of stalls to visit. The Frohes Fest Market (near Maria-Theresien-Platz) and Rathausplatz Christmas Market are must-visits for gifts, ornaments, and warm Glühwein.
Why Go:
Few cities celebrate Christmas like Vienna. The Christkindlmarkt/Frohes Fest Market and Rathausplatz Market will really put you in the holiday spirit — twinkling lights, festive stalls, mulled wine, and joyful carols. Plus, we think the Christkindlmarkt has some of the coolest collectible Christmas Market mugs! If you want to bring something back home to remember your time in Vienna, be sure to grab a gluhwein or hot cocoa in a collectable Christmas Market mug!
Book It:
Vienna Christmas Market Walking Tour — ideal for first-time visitors looking to see multiple markets in one evening.
Pro-Tip:
Visit on a weekday to avoid crowds. Try Punsch (fruit punch with rum) and roasted chestnuts for an authentic taste of the season. Plus, our personal favorite, sample smaller snacks at several stalls rather than big meals in one place to try more of the awesome food stalls! Also - be sure to bring some Euros for small vendor purchases.
Why We Loved It:
Ash and I both loved strolling between the glowing stalls, sipping warm drinks and trying all of the amazing different snacks and delicacies at each stall. We also really enjoy just being in the festive atmosphere, for those that have been to Christmas markets in the past or if it is your first time, there is something truly magical about European Christmas Markets. Honestly, for us, it felt like Vienna was built for Christmas.
5. Go Ice Skating at Rathausplatz (Vienna Ice Dream)
One of the most magical things to do in Vienna in winter is skating beneath the glittering lights of Rathausplatz. If you want a true wonderland moment, grab a pair of skates and enjoy gliding around under the lights with the smell of chestnuts in the air. It is a really cool experience!
Why Go:
The Vienna Ice Dream transforms Rathausplatz into a winter wonderland. It is one of the biggest ice skating rinks in Europe and Vienna does a fantastic job turning into a festive experience. With glittering lights, music, and even an elevated rink, it’s one of the most magical skating experiences in Europe.
Book It:
Wiener Eistraum Tickets — available online at wienereistraum.com
Pro-Tip:
Go in the early evening just as lights turn on — it’s more atmospheric then. Also, consider going midweek. If skating isn’t your thing, the Sky Rink / elevated platform gives photo views even if you stay off the ice. Warm socks, waterproof gloves help.
Why We Loved It:
Skating beneath the lit-up Rathaus while holiday music played is such a cool experience. Even if you don’t skate, the atmosphere alone is worth it.
6. Visit Belvedere Palace (and Its Christmas Market)
While there are many palaces to visit throughout Vienna, the Belvedere Palace was also one of our favorites. The palace glows at sunset and reflecting beautifully off the pond in front making this one a photographer’s dream! During winter, the palace’s courtyard hosts a beautiful and elegant Christmas market, making you feel like you are part of Viennese royalty. Be sure to wander through the Palace and see the elegant staircases and ceiling frescoes!
Why Go:
The baroque Belvedere Palace is both a beautiful architectural wonder in it’s on right, but in winter it can really glisten in the snow. Touring the inside of this elegant palace really brings you back to the opulent times of Vienna during its empire building days. Plus, its smaller Christmas market is elegant and peaceful compared to the city center crowds.
Book It:
Book entry tickets in advance if you plan to see inside the Upper & Lower Belvedere, especially for special exhibits. Sometimes there are combined palace & market tours that include this stop.
Pro-Tip:
Arrive an hour before sunset — the palace pond reflects the golden light perfectly for photos. Dress warmly for the outdoors, and bring a camera!
Why We Loved It:
We loved how Belvedere feels a bit more tranquil than the busier city-center spots, with beautiful views over the orange & red rooftops. The gardens are fantastic to wander around in - even if the air is chilly. Plus the inside just feels grand, there is something about wandering these palaces during Christmas times just makes them feel more impressive.
7. Attend a Classical Concert or Opera
Vienna Royal Orchestra
There’s no better place to experience live classical music than Vienna — the birthplace of Mozart and Strauss. Even if you are not a classical music fan, the experience in and of itself is worth it. Listening to classical music in an old grant concert hall can really bring the Christmas spirit to life!
Why Go:
Vienna is the city of Mozart, Strauss, and Beethoven — and winter is concert season! Experience the music that made Vienna famous.
Book It:
We recommend attending one of the main performances if you can, either the Vienna Royal Orchestra or Schönbrunn Palace Concert — both are superb winter picks. You can also catch a concert at the Vienna State Opera or Musikverein. Also, look for standing tickets or deals if you’re flexible.
Pro-Tip:
Book early — December fills up fast. If main venue tickets are gone or pricey, check smaller venues or side concerts. Consider attending a matinee concert when available (warmer halls, maybe cheaper). Also, dress warmly; sometimes cloakrooms are required.Dress smart-casual (think business casual)— many venues have cloakrooms for coats and scarves, so be sure to bundle up, the evenings can get really chilly and windy.
Why We Loved It:
We attended the Vienna Royal Orchestra, and it instantly put us in the holiday spirit. While we don’t normally attend classical music concerts, the experience is one that sticks with us. Just being in Vienna listening to some amazing music in the beautifully decorated auditorium felt like a truly Vienna experience!
8. See St. Stephen’s Cathedral All Lit Up
St. Stephen’s Cathedral
While you are wandering around Vienna, you can’ t miss the spectacular St. Stephen’s Cathedral right in the heart of Vienna. This cathedral is beautiful year-round, but in the winter night, its colorful tiles and glowing lights create a stunning sight. We would recommend taking some time to go inside and climb the South Tower for panoramic views of Vienna’s Christmas lights. It is a really cool experience!
Why Go:
At night, St. Stephen’s Cathedral glows in Vienna’s heart. This is a must see landmark with its gothic spires, tiled roof, and its holiday lights making it even more impressive.
Book It:
St. Stephen’s Cathedral Tour + Tower Climb — for panoramic city views.
Pro-Tip:
Go just after sunset, when lights are on but there’s still a bit of color in the sky (blue hour). Also, walk around the surrounding streets — you’ll find great photo angles, smaller side chapels, hidden details. Grab a warm drink nearby and people-watch as the lights come on.
Why We Loved It:
Seeing the cathedral lit against the night sky was one of our favorite moments — quiet, spiritual, and beautiful. We passed by a few times because it looks so cool lit up at night and its an easy landmark to use while wandering around the city.
9. Discover Vienna’s Smaller Christmas Markets
Beyond the big ones, Vienna is dotted with smaller, more local markets — like the charming ones near Looshaus and Rathaus Park. Each has its own vibe, local artisans, and quieter atmosphere. We stumbled upon so many small ones just wandering throughout the city, and it was really cool to stumble into a park or a city block and find a small Christmas market set up. There are tons throughout the city, so we would recommend wandering and finding your own small Christmas Market moments!
Why Go:
Beyond the famous ones, Vienna has dozens of smaller local markets — near Looshaus, Rathaus Park, and tucked into side streets. These hidden gems have fewer tourists and more local charm.
Book It:
If you prefer something more structured check out: Hidden Christmas Markets Walking Tour — explore authentic, off-the-beaten-path stalls.
Pro-Tip:
Bring cash (many smaller vendors don’t accept cards) and go early evening for fewer crowds. Use Google Maps or local tourism maps to spot small market icons.
Why We Loved It:
The surprise finds — a stall selling handmade ornaments we’d never seen before, a local musician singing carols, the smell of fresh crepes — those moments felt personal, warm, and memorable, plus the extra cup of gluwein (mulled wine) was a great way to warm up while wandering around!
10. Go Holiday Shopping in Börseviertel & Kärntner Straße
Whether you are looking for a holiday gift or just want to window shop, the holiday shopping in Vienna is wonderful. From luxury brands to boutique Christmas gifts, Vienna’s shopping scene is perfect for picking up unique souvenirs. Streets like Graben, Kohlmarkt, and Börseviertel are especially stunning under twinkling lights. We really enjoyed wandering around and window shopping throughout Vienna but the streets all lit up really put you in the festive mood!
Why Go:
Beyond the usual stores, Vienna’s Ringstrasse and historic shopping streets are beautifully decorated in winter. Shopping here isn’t just about buying things, the light displays, window decorations, and holiday ambiance are enchanting to walk through.
Book It:
We would recommend just exploring on your own, but if you prefer a more structured approach check out the Vienna Shopping & Christmas Market Highlights Tour — great if you want to see the best decorated streets.
Pro-Tip:
If you want to avoid peak crowds, try to shop while everyone else is eating, right around 7 PM, to avoid peak crowds. Don’t miss Graben for its iconic chandeliers!
Why We Loved It:
Walking through Kärntner Straße surrounded by holiday lights and music felt like wandering through our own Christmas movie— a perfect way to end a day in Vienna.
Quick Packing Guide - What to Pack for Vienna in Winter
It is probably no surprise, but Vienna is quite chilly and cold in December during Christmas market season. Here is what we recommend packing for those chilly days and cold evenings:
Warm coat (insulated, ideally waterproof) - We like this one for men and this one for women
Warm hat, gloves (or these if you prefer a glove that you can text without needing to take off your gloves), and scarf
Layers: thermal base layers, sweaters, and scarves
Crossbody bag or secure travel purse (for crowded markets)
Portable charger & camera gear
Waterproof, comfortable walking shoes or boots with grip
Be sure to bring a daypack to collect your Christmas market mugs!
Check out our full packing list and tips for enjoying those chilly Vienna nights!
Best Ways for Getting Around Vienna
Vienna’s public transport system is fast, clean, and affordable. Here are the best ways to get around:
Metro (U-Bahn): Ideal for major attractions and connecting major hubs within the city. For most people, the metro will take you where you want to go (just note: unless they changed it, the U-Bahn was a bit warm, so be prepared to need to shed a layer or two if you are traveling longer distances).
Trams: Great for sightseeing loops - definitely worth it if you want a slower and more enjoyable way to see the city.
Buses: Perfect for local connections and easy to use.
Vienna City Card: If you plan on using public transportation a lot, we highly recommend purchasing a Vienna City Card. This card includes unlimited transport and museum discounts - plus you can add on the Vienna City Airport Train to make it even more all inclusive.
Walking: Most of central Vienna is walkable — pack good shoes for cobblestones! We would recommend walking (even in the cold), especially if you want to stumble upon smaller Christmas Markets.
Taxis / Ride-shares: Both Uber and Bolt are available in Vienna. We used Uber, just because we have used Uber quite frequently, but Bolt is another great option and is sometimes more affordable. We’d recommend downloading both apps and comparing prices. Bolt and Uber (or taking a taxi) is useful late at night, when you have luggage, or if you want to get somewhere direct quickly.
Airport & arrivals: Vienna International Airport ≈ 20-30 min by train or airport bus into the city. We would recommend taking the Vienna City Airport Train (CAT), which provides fast and direct service to Vienna’s city center. If you are looking for a cheaper option, you can also take the S-bahn to the city center. We found Uber to be quite expensive (45-50 Euros one way), but if you have a lot of luggage this is a great option or if you are staying outside of the city center and want a direct transport option.
Where To Stay in Vienna: Hilton Vienna Plaza
We stayed at the Hilton Vienna Plaza, perfectly located just outside the city center on the Ringstrasse, and highly recommend it.. The room views over Vienna’s rooftops, excellent breakfast buffet, and cozy ambiance made it a perfect winter base. Plus, the huge Christmas decorated in the lobby really set the holiday mood. If you are looking for a great hotel, that is a little quieter but still close to sights and public transit, definitely take a look at the Hilton!
More Great Places to Stay in Vienna
If you prefer to stay closer to the central city, here are a few other wonderful options:
Hotel Sacher Wien – Iconic, luxurious, and home of the original Sachertorte. Perfect for a once-in-a-lifetime stay.
Steigenberger Hotel Herrenhof – Elegant and located steps from the Hofburg Palace. Great for exploring on foot.
Hotel Am Stephansplatz – Unbeatable location right next to St. Stephen’s Cathedral, ideal for first-time visitors.
Alternatively, for a more local experience, check out charming Airbnbs or VRBOs in neighborhoods like Neubau, Josefstadt, or Landstraße. These areas offer easy transit connections, beautiful architecture, and a more residential feel — perfect if you want to experience everyday Viennese life.
A Perfect Day Trip from Vienna: Explore Bratislava’s Old-World Charm
Only one hour away by train or boat, Bratislava, Slovakia, a true hidden gem, is an easy and rewarding winter day trip. Spend time in its Old Town, Bratislava Castle, the riverfront, enjoy Slovak pastries, and get a perspective on a different culture (and country!) which is so close by. The Old Town sparkles with its own Christmas market and castle views — a perfect complement to your Vienna itinerary. If pressed for time, you could even do a bus or train round-trip in a day. Since we were short on time, we took a day trip from Vienna and absolutely loved our guided tour in Bratislava. We found the old town really charming and truly enjoyed wandering the castle and seeing the UFO bridge. We also discovered one of our favorite Eastern European dishes while visiting Bratislava- Halusky!
Tip: Check ÖBB for train schedules — tickets are affordable and frequent.
If you prefer a more structured approach - book a guided tour to Bratislava!
Best Day Trips from Vienna
Here are some top tours & experiences that are especially good in winter. Each gives you a different flavor of the season, so pick what fits your interests & schedule.
Day trip to Halstatt and Salzburg - these amazing towns are gorgeous year-round, but really shine in Winter! If you are short on time, book a guided tour.
Day trip to Prague, Czech Republic - Prague is one of our favorite European cities, but if you are short on time, take a day trip to experience Prague in winter complete with its own amazing Christmas market!
Day trip to Budapest, Hungary - Budapest is an amazing European city full of spas, culture, and the beautiful Parliament building. While Budapest shines year round, in Winter they open their famous Christmas light display and Christmas market. Definitely worth a trip if you are short on time!
Day trip to Cesky Krumlov, Czech Republic - If you are looking for a picturesque village, needs to be on your list. This quaint town is perfect for wandering around and truly getting into the European holiday mood - while tasting some delicious Czech beer!
Final Thoughts
We absolutely loved the festive spirit of Vienna in winter. Vienna in winter is the definition of elegance and enchantment — palaces glowing with their festive winter markets, classical music echoing through gilded halls, and cozy cafés offering warmth and comfort at every turn.
If you’re dreaming of a European winter getaway that blends romance, history, and holiday magic — Vienna belongs at the top of your list.
Vienna in winter is like a storybook. Between the lights, the music, the palaces, and the smell of roasting chestnuts, every day feels like part of a holiday celebration. Whether you want opulence, coziness, adventure, or a mix of everything — Vienna delivers.
If there was one recommendation: plan ahead — for concerts, palace tours, and anything special. That’ll let you relax and soak in the magic instead of rushing or missing out.
We hope you enjoy visiting Vienna and experiencing its Christmas markets as much as we did!
Schonbrunn Palace
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