Discover the Magic of Vienna in December: Things to Do for Christmas

Vienna in December transforms into a festive wonderland. From traditional Christmas markets and dazzling decorations to classical concerts and cozy cafes, here’s how to experience Vienna’s magical holiday season.

1. Visit the Christmas Markets

One of Vienna’s most beloved traditions, Christmas markets (Weihnachtsmärkte) are scattered throughout the city, each with its unique charm. Here are some top markets to explore:

• Christkindlmarkt at Rathausplatz: The city’s largest market is located in front of the stunning City Hall. With over 150 stalls, it offers everything from handmade crafts to festive foods like roasted chestnuts and gingerbread. The Rathausplatz also features an ice-skating rink and merry-go-rounds for children.
• Schönbrunn Palace Christmas Market: Set against the backdrop of Schönbrunn Palace, this market has a more traditional and artisanal feel. You can find handcrafted decorations and seasonal gifts. The imperial ambiance and views of the palace make this market particularly enchanting.
• Spittelberg Christmas Market: Located in Vienna’s bohemian district, Spittelberg Market has a cozy, village-like atmosphere with narrow lanes and unique stalls selling jewelry, handicrafts, and organic products.

2. Ice Skating

Vienna’s ice-skating rinks are a delightful way to get into the holiday spirit. One of the largest and most scenic rinks is the Wiener Eistraum in front of the Rathaus (City Hall), which offers a winter park with pathways through decorated trees and plenty of space to skate. The rink is beautifully illuminated at night, creating a truly magical experience. Smaller rinks can also be found in the Prater amusement park and some Christmas markets, where you can rent skates and join in the fun.

3. Attend a Classical Concert

Vienna, the city of music, offers extraordinary concerts during the holiday season, bringing classical music lovers from around the world to celebrate Christmas with Mozart and Strauss. Attend a concert in the Musikverein, where the Vienna Philharmonic performs, or catch a show at St. Stephen’s Cathedral, which hosts Advent and Christmas concerts featuring choirs and orchestras. Many churches also offer festive performances, including Vienna’s St. Peter’s Church and Karlskirche.

4. Explore the Christmas Lights and Decorations

Vienna is renowned for its elegant Christmas lights and decorations. Graben and Kärntner Strasse in the city center are adorned with chandeliers and twinkling lights, creating a romantic holiday atmosphere. Take a walk through the Historic Center to see the beautifully lit buildings, and don’t miss the Rathaus, which is beautifully decorated and illuminated.

5. Warm Up with Seasonal Treats

Indulging in Vienna’s seasonal treats is a must. Cafes offer classic Christmas desserts like Vanillekipferl (vanilla crescent cookies), Lebkuchen (gingerbread), and Christstollen (fruit cake). Visit the famous Café Central or Demel to try these holiday delicacies. For something warm, enjoy a cup of Glühwein (mulled wine) or Punsch (a spiced punch) at the Christmas markets or in Vienna’s cozy cafes.

6. Take a Winter Walk Through the Prater and Stadtpark

If you want a break from the city center’s hustle and bustle, the Prater and Stadtpark are ideal for a peaceful winter walk. In the Prater, the iconic Riesenrad (Giant Ferris Wheel) offers stunning winter views of Vienna’s skyline, and you can enjoy the quiet beauty of the park itself, transformed by a layer of frost. Stadtpark, with its famous statue of Johann Strauss, offers serene pathways to explore on a crisp December day.

7. Experience Vienna’s New Year’s Eve Trail

Although technically after Christmas, Vienna’s New Year’s Eve Trail (Silvesterpfad) is an exciting way to close out December. This free public celebration starts in the afternoon on New Year’s Eve and fills Vienna’s historic streets with live music, food stands, and dancing. The entire city lights up with festivities, and at midnight, fireworks over the Rathaus create an unforgettable sight.

8. Enjoy a Christmas-Themed Tour

For an in-depth exploration, consider joining a guided Christmas-themed tour. Local guides provide insights into Vienna’s holiday customs, take you to lesser-known Christmas markets, and share the history behind the city’s seasonal traditions.

A Cozy, Festive December Awaits in Vienna

Vienna in December is a city alive with holiday spirit, tradition, and warmth. Whether you’re sipping mulled wine at a Christmas market, attending a concert, or simply strolling through the beautifully decorated streets, Vienna offers countless ways to celebrate the season. Make sure to bundle up, bring a sense of wonder, and immerse yourself in the holiday charm of this magical city.