Vienna is a city that truly comes to life during the Christmas season offering a whimsical atmosphere with its markets, twinkling lights, and festive traditions. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning to enjoy the city’s holiday spirit, there’s plenty of things to do in Vienna at Christmas.
From attending a world-class concert to visiting an amusement park with winter festivities, Vienna has something everyone can enjoy. Read on to discover some of the best activities that will make your Christmas in Vienna unforgettable!
Things to Do in Vienna at Christmas
*This post contains affiliate links. Which means that if you purchase something after clicking on a link, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Go Ice Skating at Rathauspark
Ice Skating at Rathauspark is a popular winter activity in Vienna. Set against the stunning backdrop of the Rathaus (City Hall), the large outdoor skating rink is beautifully decorated. The hundreds of twinkling lights creatr a magical atmosphere.
Skaters of all levels are welcome on the ice, but if skating is not your thing it’s still a fun activity to watch from the sidelines.
Shop for Gifts and Souvenirs at the Christmas Markets
There’s tons of wonderful Christmas markets in Vienna. From Wiener Christkindlmarkt to Am Hof, the markets are one of the main things to do in Vienna during the holidays.
The stalls are brimming with local crafts, wood carvings, festive decorations and delicious treats. So whether you’re looking for souvenirs to take back home or just want to try some seasonal goodies, the markets are worth perusing.
Also, don’t forget to try the Glühwein!
Take a Horse-Drawn Carriage Ride
A Fiaker ride through Vienna’s historic streets is a charming way to experience the city’s Christmas magic.
Wrapped in blankets, you’ll trot through the city taking in festive lights, holiday decorations and twinkling shop windows. Rides are available throughout the city and offer routes that pass by iconic landmarks like Hofburg Palace and St. Stephen’s Cathedral.
Attend a Christmas Concert
Vienna is known as the “City of Music” because of its rich musical history, so attending a Christmas concert in the city is truly an experience.
Enjoy enchanting performances of Christmas carols, classical masterpieces, and organ music, all performed by world-class musicians. Whether it’s a concert at Wiener Konzerthaus, St.Stephen’s Cathedral or St. Peter’s Church, the stunning venues paired with timeless music, create a unique holiday experience.
See the Lights on Graben
Graben is one of Vienna’s most famous shopping streets, and it’s a must-see during the holidays.
As night falls, the street transforms into a glittering wonderland with stunning Christmas lights draped across the buildings and trees. The festive displays create an enchanting atmosphere, making it the perfect place for an evening stroll.
There’s plenty of luxury boutiques and cozy cafes along the way to pop in as well.
Visit Belvedere Palace
Visiting Belvedere Palace is a must any time of year in Vienna; however, this is especially true during Christmas time.
Inside the palace you’ll find masterpieces by Klimt, Schiele, and other prominent artists. Outside, there’s sprawling gardens and a modest Christmas market for visitors to enjoy.
The palace’s Baroque architecture provides a beautiful backdrop for the market which offers a mix of crafts, trinkets and seasonal eats. There’s also a small merry go round for children to enjoy.
Take a Festive Danube River Cruise
A Danube River cruise is a scenic way to experience Vienna’s Christmas charm. As you sail along the river, you’ll be treated to wonderful views of the city’s festive lights, historic landmarks and beautiful bridges.
During the holidays, some cruises may even offer warm drinks and holiday treats to make the experience even more festive.
Explore the Christmas VIllage at Maria-Theresien-Platz
Nestled between the Kunsthistorisches Museum and the Naturhistorisches Museum, the Christmas VIllage at Maria-Theresien-Platz is a main attraction in Vienna.
This charming market is known for its picturesque setting and wide range of artisanal gifts available. The stalls also offer delicious Austrian treats like roasted chestnuts, Glühwein, and different types of sausages.
Try Some Classic Austrian Cuisine
One of the best ways to get to know a city or country is through their food. Take a food tour to try some Austrian cuisine and learn about its history. If you’d rather do some independent eatings, here’s a few Austrian dishes worth trying while in Vienna:
- Goulash: A hearty stew with Hungarian origins perfect for cold Viennese winters filled with beef, onions, and various spices.
- Tafelspitz: Cuts of beef simmered and served in a vegetable and spice broth served with apple and horseradish sauces.
- Wiener Schnitzel: A thin slice of veal breaded and fried until perfectly golden.
Stroll Through Schönbrunn Palace
Offering a blend of history, beauty and festive charm. Schönbrunn Palace is a must visit during Christmas.
The palace grounds are home to one of Vienna’s most picturesque Christmas markets. Shop for gifts you won’t find at other markets, try exclusive drinks like Sisi Punsch (a cherry punch with Amaretto), and soak in the holiday atmosphere.
Take a tour of the palace and then spend some time wandering the market.
Visit Prater Amusement Park
With its holiday-themed attractions, sparkling lights and festive atmosphere Prater Amusement Park takes on a whimsical charm during the Christmas season.
Winter Market at Riesenradplatz runs from late-November to the beginning of January and has everything from a charity auction to live concerts and entertainment. There’s also rides like the famous ferris wheel which offers views of the city, all aglow with holiday lights.
Whether you’re looking to just enjoy some hot punch and a show or you’re wanting to take a spin in the Dizzy Mouse, you’re sure to have a great time at Prater Amusement park at Christmas time.
Watch a Ballet or Opera
Vienna offers world-class ballet and opera performances in iconic venues like the Vienna State Opera and the Volksoper. Whether you’re a lover of classical music, dance or theater, experiencing Vienna’s artistic heritage is a must do.
Get dressed up and catch a show for a swanky night out!
Cozy up in one of Vienna’s Famous Cafes
From Café Central to Café Sacher, there are plenty of renowned coffee houses in Vienna.
Take a break from the cold and pop into one of these historical cafes for some coffee and a sweet treat. Vienna is known for its desserts such as apfelstrudel, sachertorte, and punschkrapf. Whatever you choose, it’s bound to be good!
Just know the more famous cafes get very busy and are known to have lines that wrap the building. Arrive closer to opening or make a reservation to ensure you get a seat in a timely manner. Or, take this guided Viennese Coffee-House Tour to experience Vienna’s coffeehouse culture.
Attend Midnight Mass
For a truly memorable Christmas experience, consider attending Midnight Mass at one of Vienna’s iconic churches, like St. Stephen’s Cathedral or St. Peter’s Church.
The stunning architecture combined with candlelit interiors and beautiful choral music is sure to be an incredibly special experience. Service takes place on Christmas Eve and is a perfect way to immerse yourself in Vienna’s rich cultural and spiritual traditions.
Vienna truly comes alive at Christmas and if you’re fortunate enough to visit the city during this time you’re in for treat! From the twinkling lights spread across the city to the aromas of mulled wine and roasted chestnuts in the markets, there’s no shortage of holiday magic in Vienna. So, pack your cozy winter apparel and get ready to experience the city’s Christmas charm!
Found this post helpful? Save it for later!
This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.
Leave a Comment