To-Dos in Winter

From late November onwards, Vienna transforms into a glittering winter wonderland. The scent of roasted chestnuts, mulled wine and freshly baked pastries fills the air, while the city’s grand architecture is draped in shimmering Christmas lights. It’s that magical time of the year when the city feels straight out of a fairy tale — festive, elegant and full of warmth despite the crisp winter air.

When the temperature drops, there’s no better place to be than in one of Vienna’s many cosy historic cafés, sipping a steaming cup of hot chocolate or Wiener Melange. The cultural season is also in full swing, with concerts, and operas taking place in some of the world’s most beautiful venues. From wandering through Christmas markets to enjoying a candlelight concert, these are our favourite things to do in Vienna in winter:

Visit Vienna’s Christmas Markets

Christmas Market at Schönbrunn

No visit to Vienna in winter is complete without stopping by at least one of its many Christmas markets. Each one has its own unique charm — from the grand Christkindlmarkt at Rathausplatz to the romantic Spittelberg Market tucked between narrow cobbled streets.

Try some traditional treats such as roasted almonds, hot punch or mulled wine, and browse through stalls filled with handmade crafts, ornaments and gifts. The twinkling lights and festive music make it an unforgettable experience.

👉 Read more about Vienna’s Christmas markets here.

Join a Christmas Tour

Christmas Market at Rathaus © Ring Tours

Get into the festive spirit with a Ring Tours Christmas Tour, which takes you through Vienna’s most iconic holiday sights — from illuminated boulevards to the city’s most famous markets. It’s a wonderful way to learn about Viennese Christmas traditions while seeing the city at its most magical.

🎄 Book your tour here.

Have Coffee and Cake in a Traditional Coffee House

Café Central

When it’s cold outside, there’s no better refuge than one of Vienna’s historic coffee houses. Step inside Café Landtmann, Café Central, or Café Sperl, and you’ll be transported back in time.

Order a creamy Wiener Melange or hot chocolate, pair it with a slice of Apfelstrudel or Sachertorte, and enjoy the slow pace of Viennese life. The warm atmosphere, elegant interiors and the gentle clinking of porcelain cups make it an experience to savour.

Visit Vienna’s Museums

Natural History Museum © @fabien_gl_

Winter is the perfect season for exploring Vienna’s world-class museums. Whether you’re fascinated by fine art, history or modern design, there’s something for everyone.

Spend an afternoon at the Kunsthistorisches Museum, discover contemporary works at the Leopold Museum, or admire the grandeur of the Albertina. For a more unusual experience, explore the Museum of Illusions or the Sigmund Freud Museum.

🎟️ Get your museum tickets here.

Wander Through the City and Admire the Christmas Lights

Christmas Lights at Graben © @ihab.982

There’s something truly magical about Vienna in winter. Strolling through the city centre feels like stepping into a Christmas postcard — the streets glow with sparkling lights, shop windows are beautifully decorated, and the scent of roasted Maroni fills the crisp air.

As dusk falls, the city glows with festive light installations that adorn every major street and square. Wander along Kärntner Straße, Graben and Mariahilfer Straße, or cross the Ringstrasse to admire Vienna’s most elegant buildings illuminated at night. Don’t miss the giant chandeliers above Graben, the glowing arches at Rathausplatz, and the golden lights surrounding St Stephen’s Cathedral. Every corner seems to shimmer with warmth and charm — a scene straight out of a fairytale.

Visit the Magic World Vienna

Step into a world of wonder and illusion at Magic World Vienna — an interactive experience where light, mirrors, and perspective create an enchanting visual playground. From surreal rooms to creative photo spots, it’s a fun and immersive attraction for visitors of all ages.

Perfect for escaping the cold for an hour or two, Magic World combines art, imagination, and technology to create an unforgettable experience that truly lives up to its name.

✨ Get your Magic World tickets here.

Take a Big Bus Tour

Even in winter, sightseeing in Vienna can be comfortable and scenic. Hop on a Big Bus Tour to see the city’s highlights from the warmth of a panoramic bus. With its hop-on, hop-off option, you can stop at famous landmarks like Schönbrunn Palace, the State Opera and the Hofburg.

🚌 Book your Big Bus Tour here.

Discover the Perle Pop Up – Art & Design Market

Perle Pop Up Market © Daniel Kalt

If you’re looking for unique gifts and local creativity, don’t miss the Perle Pop Up Art & Design Market on 29–30 November from 11am to 19pm at Gleisgarten and 20-21 December at Ottakringer Brauerei. This vibrant event brings together talented designers, artists, and small brands showcasing handmade pieces, sustainable products, and one-of-a-kind creations and the entry is FREE.

Take advantage of it and book a spot at the candle workshop on Sunday, 30th November or 20-21 December with Dankbar's Team, where you can craft your own candle as a beautiful, hand-poured souvenir to take home.

It’s the perfect place to find meaningful presents, meet local makers, and soak in Vienna’s festive spirit in a relaxed, creative atmosphere.

Visit the Butterfly House and Palm House

Butterfly House and Palm House

If you need a break from the cold, step into a tropical paradise at the Schmetterlinghaus (Butterfly House) or the Palmenhaus in the Burggarten. Both are housed in stunning Art Nouveau glass buildings and offer a tranquil escape filled with lush greenery and exotic butterflies.

They’re perfect spots to warm up and recharge before continuing your winter explorations.

Attend a Candlelight Concert

Taking place in various spectacular locations in and around Vienna, these candlelight performances allow you to experience live music in a completely new way! Enjoy a wide variety of themes and genres like classical, jazz or pop. From ABBA to Hans Zimmer - there's a Candlelight Concert for music lovers of all kinds.

🎶 Book your Candlelight Concert here.

Winter in Vienna is a season of contrasts — crisp air and warm interiors, glittering streets and peaceful cafés, festive joy and quiet elegance. Whether you’re exploring Christmas markets, attending a concert by candlelight, or simply sipping coffee as snow falls outside, Vienna offers endless ways to experience its charm.

So wrap up warm, grab a cup of punch, and let yourself be enchanted by the city’s winter magic.