Full Weather and Packing Guide for Visiting Vienna, Austria in Winter
If you are planning on visiting the beautiful city of Vienna, Austria this winter be prepared for cold weather and possibly some snowy days. We visited Vienna during late December (right before Christmas time) and loved the vibe of the city all dressed up for the holidays. Some of our favorite moments were simply exploring the city by foot and finding small Christmas markets throughout the city. Vienna is a very walkable city, and even though there is fantastic public transportation, you will most likely be outside for a good portion of your trip. Vienna in winter is truly enchanting — just make sure you pack smart so you can enjoy every chilly, magical moment.
Looking to find the best things to do while in Vienna? Check out our post on the 10 best things to do in Vienna Austria in Winter
Looking to find some amazing tours to make the most of your experience? Check out our Best tours and day tour guide!
Weather and What to Expect
Winter weather in Vienna typically runs from late November through February, with temperatures ranging from chilly to downright cold. Snow is possible (especially in December and January), but even when it doesn’t snow, expect frosty mornings and crisp, clear evenings.
| Month | Average High | Average Low | Daylight Hours | What to Expect |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| November | 46°F / 8°C | 36°F / 2°C | ~9 hours | Cool days and early holiday markets opening |
| December | 39°F / 4°C | 30°F / -1°C | ~8 hours | Festive lights, Christmas markets, and occasional snow |
| January | 37°F / 3°C | 27°F / -3°C | ~9 hours | Coldest month; bring thermal layers |
| February | 42°F / 6°C | 29°F / -2°C | ~10 hours | Gradually warming, with clear, crisp days |
Pro Tip: The days are short in late November and all of December, so plan your main sightseeing for daylight hours and enjoy the cozy café scene and evening markets after dark. The Christmas markets typically are open from mid-November until Christmas Eve, with some markets staying open until the first few days in January.
Recommended Packing List
When we visited Vienna in late December, it was cold and windy, which means Vienna’s winter charm comes with one big rule — layer up. The key is to stay warm without sacrificing comfort or style, especially since you’ll likely spend time both outdoors and indoors in beautifully heated palaces, museums, and cafés. Typically, Vienna dresses up much nicer than is typical in the US, so you’ll want to make sure you have a good mix of comfortable clothes that look good. Below is our recommended packing list for visiting Vienna in Winter:
Clothing
Warm winter coat (ideally waterproof or insulated) - We like this one for men and this one for women
Sweaters (wool or cashmere blends are great) - check out this one for women or check out this one for men
Long-sleeve shirts or turtlenecks for layering
Jeans or warm trousers - Matt also really likes these travel pants from Chubbies that are great for travel, dressing up, and hiking
Dressier outfit for concerts or dinner
Outerwear & Accessories
Warm hat, gloves (or these if you prefer a glove that you can text without needing to take off your gloves), and scarf
Warm socks (wool-blend if possible) - a nice thick pair especially if wanting to go ice skating!
Comfortable waterproof boots - We like these ones for Women or these ones for men
A compact travel umbrella and a waterproof hat (or hood) are great because Vienna can be misty or a snowy.
Light backpack or crossbody bag for exploring
Essentials
Portable power bank (for phones and cameras)
Moisturizer and lip balm (the air is dry in winter)
Matt really likes this moisturizer for men
Why Pack Layers: Museums, cafés, and concert halls are well-heated. Wearing layers allows you to comfortably transition from chilly outdoor markets to warm interiors.
What to Wear in Vienna by Activity
🎄 Christmas Markets
Bundle up! Evenings can be freezing, but you’ll be outdoors enjoying food, lights, and music.
Insulated coat
Beanie or ear warmers
Gloves (touchscreen-friendly for taking photos!)
Wool scarf
Waterproof boots
Optional: thermal leggings under jeans for added warmth
Museums & Palaces
Vienna’s indoor attractions are warm, so aim for comfort and smart casual.
Sweater over a base layer
Jeans or nice trousers
Stylish boots or loafers
Light scarf that can double as a wrap
Cafés & Coffeehouses
Embrace the Viennese café culture — cozy yet chic.
Casual layers or knit dresses
An oversized scarf or shawl
Flat boots or comfortable shoes
Concerts & Evenings Out
Vienna’s classical concerts and elegant restaurants call for slightly dressier attire.
For women: a warm midi dress or blouse with tailored pants, and a pea coat
For men: button-up shirt, dark jeans or trousers, pea coat
Polished shoes or ankle boots
Vienna in the winter can be absolutely magical especially if you plan to be outside exploring the Christmas markets at night. With these tips, you’ll be staying nice and warm while visiting the gorgeous palaces of Vienna, listening to the beautiful classical music concerts, exploring the many Christmas markets around Vienna, and hopping into the cafes.
We hope you enjoy your time exploring Vienna as much as we did!
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Looking for more Vienna or winter inspiration? Check out our other blog posts to help make your Vienna trip the best one yet!
