A grand corner building in Vienna is lavishly decorated for the holidays with a giant illuminated red bow and ribbon wrapping around its façade. The classical architecture features arched windows, ornate detailing, and statues lining the roof.

Vienna in December: What to Expect + Festive Things to Do

ByErin Updated on

There’s something extra special about Vienna in December. Sure, the Christmas markets are a big part of it — and they really are some of the best in Europe — but it’s more than that. The lights, the music, the smell of roasting chestnuts and baked goods, even just wandering the decorated streets – the whole city feels festive.

We’ve visited Vienna a few times now, and it’s quickly become one of our favourite places to go in December. Whether you’re here with kids or planning a winter city break, there’s plenty to do, both inside and out, and no shortage of holiday magic.

In this post, you’ll find what to expect from the weather, things to do beyond the Christmas markets, where to find the best decorations, what to pack, and tips for making the most of your visit.

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What’s the Weather Like in December?

Vienna in December can be cold, but not usually snowy. Temperatures hover around freezing, with daytime highs between 1°C and 5°C and nights often dipping below zero. Some days feel damp, especially if you’re out walking between markets — so layers are key.

You’ll want to dress for the kind of cold where you’re outside a lot but not moving fast. We spent plenty of time just wandering, standing at market stalls, or watching performances, so warm socks, waterproof boots, and a good coat made all the difference.

Days are short, with sunset around 4pm, so if you’re planning outdoor sights or day trips, make the most of the morning light.

A busy Christmas market with garlanded huts and shoppers in winter coats is set against the backdrop of Vienna’s Maria Theresa statue and historic buildings under a cloudy sky.
Dress warmly for Vienna in December

What to Wear in Vienna in December

It gets chilly in December — and while Vienna often feels a little less damp than other parts of Europe, you’ll still want to dress warmly. You’ll be standing around at markets, not power walking between sights, so it’s easy to get cold fast.

Here’s what we recommend wearing:

  • Warm, waterproof boots
  • A winter coat (down or insulated is best)
  • Hat, gloves, and scarf (or even better — a buff)
  • Thermal layers or fleece-lined leggings
  • Wool socks

And don’t forget the hand warmers! I also pack a few extra snacks for the kids in case the lineups are long or they’re not into market food.

For more info and ideas, here’s our guide on what to pack for Christmas Markets — it’s got all the essentials (and a few extras that came in surprisingly handy).

Vienna’s Christmas Markets

The Christmas markets are a huge part of what makes Vienna in December so special — and yes, they really are as magical as they look in the photos.

There are more than a dozen markets across the city, ranging from big and festive — with things like skating trails, carousels, and light shows — to smaller, quieter ones tucked into courtyards or palace grounds. We’ve written a full guide to Vienna’s Christmas Markets, with everything you need to know — including which ones are best for kids, what to eat and drink, and when they’re open.

If you’re short on time, don’t miss the Christkindlmarkt at Rathausplatz, the Schönbrunn Palace market, or the smaller-but-fantastic one at Karlsplatz.

A large green and red arch with a bow marks the entrance to Vienna’s Rathausplatz Christmas market during the day, with a carousel and the grand city hall building in the background.

Christmas Lights and Decorations

One of the best things about Vienna in December is how festive the entire city feels — and it’s not just because of the markets. Streets, squares, and shopfronts are decked out in lights, and even just walking around in the evening can feel magical.

Some of the most impressive displays include:

  • The Graben, with its giant chandelier lights
  • Kärntner Strasse and Rotenturmstrasse, lit up with long chains of lights and oversized red ornaments
  • Popp & Kretschmer Department Store, wrapped in a giant red bow
  • Rathauspark, home to the glowing Tree of Hearts and other walk-through light displays

You’ll pass by most of these if you’re exploring the city centre — but it’s also worth setting aside time for a stroll once the lights come on.

A large tree covered in glowing red heart-shaped lights stands in a festive park next to a small gingerbread-style house with twinkling decorations and a whimsical vibe.
Large illuminated chandeliers hang over a bustling pedestrian street in Vienna at night, with elegant strings of lights stretching across historic buildings and a crowd below.
decorations along the Graben
A grand historic building in Vienna is decorated for the holidays with a massive red glittering bow wrapping around its corner, above luxury storefronts with golden awnings. Festive wreaths hang in the windows and classical statues line the rooftop.

Holiday Shopping in Vienna

While the Christmas markets are a great place to pick up unique gifts and souvenirs, there are plenty of other spots for holiday shopping around the city.

For big-name stores and popular brands, head to Kärntner Strasse, Mariahilfer Strasse, or the Graben. The Graben is especially fun — not just for the chandeliers overhead, but because many of the shops are set inside older historic buildings. There’s something very Viennese about shopping at H&M inside what looks like a centuries-old townhouse.

If you’re looking for something more local, check the side streets off these main areas for boutiques, bookstores, and Austrian design shops.

You can also swing by Naschmarkt (weather permitting) for food gifts and regional specialities, or browse through traditional department stores like Steffl or Gerngross for a mix of fashion, home goods, and local brands.

Even if you’re not doing a ton of shopping, it’s fun to browse the decorated windows and soak in the festive vibe.

Festive Food and Drinks

Even beyond the markets, Vienna does the holiday season right when it comes to food.

You’ll find seasonal treats everywhere — from hotel cafés to bakery windows — and it’s worth sampling a few while you’re here. Some favourites to look out for:

  • Vanillekipferl – crescent-shaped vanilla cookies, dusted in powdered sugar
  • Linzer Augen – sandwich cookies with jam in the middle
  • Sachertorte – rich chocolate cake with a layer of apricot jam, best enjoyed at a classic café
  • Hot chocolate – thick, rich, and way more indulgent than the North American version
  • Gulasch & dumplings – found in traditional restaurants or as part of holiday menus
  • Mulled wine or punch – not just at markets, but served in cafés and restaurants too

My kids loved the hot chocolate in Vienna — especially the kind you get at the markets. The best one we had was at the Christkindlmarkt at Rathausplatz, and they were thrilled to pay the mug deposit themselves and keep the souvenir cup.

If you’re visiting with kids, stopping at a café for a slice of cake or warm drink is a great way to break up the day. Most of the famous ones (like Café Sacher, Demel, and Café Central) can be busy in December, but the experience is part of the fun.

A hand holds a red, heart-shaped Christmas market mug with music notes and festive graphics, while the blurred background shows a crowded, brightly lit market at night.
mulled wine for me
A young child in a red winter coat and orange knit hat with a white pom-pom drinks from a festive mug while leaning on a wooden bench outside a cozy market stall. The child wears red and black plaid gloves, adding to the warm holiday atmosphere.
and hot chocolate for the kids

Seasonal Events and Concerts

Vienna is known for its music year‑round, and in December it really shines. From grand halls to museums, there are plenty of festive performances — some perfect for families.

If you’re up for a big evening out, look for concerts at places like the Vienna State Opera, the Musikverein or the Konzerthaus Wien. These venues often host holiday‑themed programmes and classical classics.

For something more family‑friendly or even slightly off the beaten path, the Albertina is worth checking — they offer guided tours, workshops, and special events specifically for children and families.

Many markets also have free performances in the evening — choirs, small orchestras or bands near the grand squares. These are ideal if you’ve got kids and want to enjoy music without committing to a long sit‑down show.

Indoor Things to Do (Especially with Kids)

If the weather isn’t great — or you just need a break from the cold — Vienna has plenty of indoor options that are fun for both kids and adults.

  • Children’s Museum at Schönbrunn Palace: Hands-on and interactive, this museum lets kids dress up in imperial clothes and learn what life was like for royal children. It’s a great stop before or after the market at Schönbrunn.
  • Haus der Musik: A sound-focused museum where kids can try instruments, conduct a virtual orchestra, and learn about famous composers.
  • ZOOM Children’s Museum: Play-based and creative, with changing exhibits and a section just for younger kids.
  • Natural History Museum: Dinosaur skeletons, glittering gemstones, and interactive displays — fun for a wide age range.
  • Haus des Meeres: Set inside a former WWII tower, this multi-level aquarium has sharks, turtles, monkeys, and tropical birds — even a Komodo dragon and a Gila monster! It’s a fun indoor stop that my kids absolutely loved.
  • Time Travel Vienna: A bit touristy, but great for older kids. It’s an immersive 5D show that walks you through Vienna’s history with sound, movement, and special effects.

Many of the big museums (like the Albertina or Kunsthistorisches Museum) also offer family programs or kid-friendly guides during the holidays. And if you’re just looking to warm up, Vienna has plenty of cafés and indoor markets to duck into between sights.

For even more ideas, check out our full post on things to do in Vienna with kids.

Two children wearing festive knit hats look up at a large aquarium where a stingray swims overhead among glowing blue water and underwater scenery.
Watching the fish at Haus des Meeres
A young boy in a red plaid jacket points curiously at a Gila monster lizard through the glass of a desert-themed exhibit, with the reptile perched on a rock ledge.
and seeing a Gila monster!

Where to Stay in Vienna in December

Vienna has a great mix of hotels and apartments, and in December, it’s worth staying somewhere central so you can easily walk to the Christmas markets and decorated streets.

Family-Friendly: 25hours Hotel Vienna at MuseumsQuartier – A fun, colourful hotel with spacious rooms and a great location near the Museum Quarter. Some rooms have kitchenettes, which is a huge bonus for families.

Close to the Centre: Hotel Mercure Wien City – Just outside the Innere Stadt, this hotel offers comfortable rooms within a short walk of the main sights and markets. A great balance of convenience and value.

City Centre: KH Opera Apartments – We stayed here and loved it. The Karlsplatz Christmas Market was right across the street, and it was easy to walk anywhere in the city centre. There’s also a metro stop just across the road, making it simple to get around the rest of Vienna.

Wherever you stay, you’ll find Vienna easy to explore on foot or by tram. For more options, check out our full guide to the best areas and recommendations on where to stay in Vienna with kids.

Final Thoughts: Visiting Vienna in December

Vienna in December feels like something out of a storybook. The Christmas markets are the main draw, but it’s the atmosphere across the whole city that makes it unforgettable — from the festive lights along the Graben to the scent of mulled wine in the air. Even if you’ve been to other Christmas markets in Europe, Vienna has a way of setting the bar just a little higher.

It’s also an easy city to explore with kids. The markets are walkable, the food is comforting and fun, and there are enough cozy indoor options for when you need a break from the cold. Whether you’re planning a short visit or adding it to a longer itinerary, Vienna makes December travel feel relaxed and festive — all at once.

Looking to explore more of Vienna? Be sure to check out our guide to the best things to do in Vienna with kids, or this 4-day Vienna itinerary to help with planning. And if you’re continuing the holiday spirit, the Christmas markets in Prague are magical, and Bratislava’s Christmas markets are just a short train ride away.

Erin Martin is the founder of Take the Kids Everywhere, a family travel blog that helps parents explore the world with their kids — one destination at a time. She’s travelled to 20+ countries with her kids, including destinations across Europe, South America, and Canada. With a background in teaching and a love for exploring new places, Erin shares practical tips, city guides, and real-life experiences to make family travel easier and more enjoyable.

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