The Ultimate Guide to Vienna in December: Lights, Markets, Music and More
Book Top Experiences and Tours in Vienna:
If youʻre booking your trip to Vienna last minute, we have you covered. Below are some of the top tours and experiences!- From Vienna: Full-Day Trip to Prague
- Vienna: Upper Belvedere & Permanent Collection Entry Ticket
- Vienna: City Bus Tour, Schönbrunn Palace Skip-the-Line Entry
- Vienna: Day Trip to Mauthausen Concentration Camp Memorial
- From Vienna: Melk, Salzburg, and Hallstatt Private Tour
Visiting Vienna in December? From sparkling Christmas markets to cozy coffeehouses and festive concerts, the city transforms into a winter wonderland filled with culture, lights, and warm seasonal experiences. This is your essential 2025 guide to the best things to do in Vienna in December.
Whether you are coming for the Christmas markets or looking for classic sightseeing mixed with seasonal magic, this guide highlights the most enjoyable activities to make your December trip unforgettable. Explore charming markets, festive events, imperial landmarks, and unique winter-only experiences.
1. Wander Through Vienna’s Famous Christmas Markets
December is Christmas market season in Vienna. From the fairy lights at Rathausplatz to local crafts at Spittelberg and gourmet food at Am Hof, these markets are the heart of the city’s winter charm. Try punch, roasted chestnuts, and festive pastries. For a complete route, check out our Vienna Christmas Market Guide.
2. Experience Classical Music in a Festive Setting
December is one of the best times to hear classical music in Vienna. Enjoy a seasonal Mozart concert in the Golden Hall or choose a candlelit performance in St. Stephen’s Cathedral. The festive atmosphere makes it even more memorable.
3. Visit Schönbrunn Palace and Its Christmas Market
Walk through the winter gardens and explore the imperial interior with a skip the line Schönbrunn Palace tour. Outside the palace you will find one of Vienna’s most elegant Christmas markets with artisan gifts, decorations, and live music.
4. Join a Guided Christmas Markets Tour
If you want to see the best Christmas markets without missing the hidden highlights, join a guided Christmas markets tour. Your guide will take you through the most festive spots, share local traditions, and help you discover seasonal treats that travellers often overlook.
5. See the City Lights From the Giant Ferris Wheel
The Prater is especially magical in December. Take a ride on the Giant Ferris Wheel to see Vienna lit up for the holidays. It is a simple and beautiful winter moment.
6. Explore Vienna’s Museums on a Cozy Winter Day
Shorter days make museum visits even more inviting. Highlights include the Kunsthistorisches Museum, the Sisi Museum, and the Belvedere Palace with its world-famous Klimt paintings.
7. Explore the City With a Winter Walking Tour
Winter is a beautiful time to explore hidden courtyards, old alleys, and seasonal traditions. A winter walking tour is ideal for discovering stories behind the city’s festive decorations and historic buildings.
8. Enjoy Seasonal Views From Karlskirche
Visit Karlskirche and ride the elevator to the panoramic terrace with your entry ticket. The views are particularly atmospheric in December when the city glows with lights.
9. Sip Regional Wines in a Cozy Cellar
Warm up underground with a curated wine tasting in a private cellar. Learn about Vienna’s unique wine culture and taste seasonal varietals paired with local snacks.
10. Take a Danube River Cruise With Winter Views
See the city’s architecture and winter scenery aboard a peaceful Danube river cruise. Soft lighting and cool weather make this a relaxing midday break from exploring.
11. Watch the Lipizzaner Stallions
The Spanish Riding School hosts performances throughout December. A Lipizzaner show is a unique cultural highlight and a great winter activity when the weather gets cold.
12. Enjoy a Festive Night Tour of the City
See Vienna illuminated with twinkling lights and holiday decorations on a panoramic night bus tour. A relaxing way to end a December day in the city.
How We Picked These
This winter guide was created by Vienna travel experts who know the rhythm of the city during the holiday season. We prioritised festive activities, iconic attractions, and experiences that are particularly enjoyable in cold weather. Each option is chosen for quality, atmosphere, and ease of booking.
Conclusion
December is one of the most magical times to visit Vienna. From festive markets to warm coffeehouses, imperial palaces to candlelit concerts, the city offers endless reasons to fall in love with winter in Austria’s capital. Start planning your December trip and enjoy the best of Vienna with experiences that bring the season to life.
