Explore Vienna's Winter Wonderland: Top Things To Do

Vienna is a beautiful city to visit in winter, with its Christmas markets, snow-covered baroque architecture, and fairy lights illuminating the city. The Austrian capital is famous for its festive period, with some of the best Christmas markets in Europe. One of the most popular and traditional takes place in front of the Belvedere Palace, with stalls selling handicrafts, food and warming mugs of gluhwein (mulled wine).

The city is also known for its ball season, which takes place between November and January, with events ranging from the conservative Philharmonic ball to the more modern Bonbon Ball. For those who want to get active, there are numerous ice rinks across the city, including one in front of the Rathaus (city hall), which hosts the annual Ice Dream event.

For those who want to stay cosy, there are plenty of coffee houses to shelter from the cold, and the city's famous cakes and pastries. There are also over 100 museums to visit, including the Kunst Haus Wien, and the Museum of Illusions for something a little different.

Visit the Christmas markets

Vienna's Christmas markets are a feast for the senses. The air is filled with the scent of roasting chestnuts and the sounds of choral performances, while the twinkling lights of wooden stalls selling handcrafted goods and decorations illuminate the city's grand architecture.

The Austrian capital is famous for its Christmas markets, which are considered some of the best in Europe. The market in front of the Belvedere Palace is one of the most popular and traditional, with a circle of stalls selling handicrafts, warming Austrian food and drinks, and providing daily choral performances.

The Christkindlmarkt on the Rathausplatz is the biggest Christmas market in Vienna, with a stunning backdrop of the Gothic-style city council building. Here, you can buy gifts and enjoy mulled wine, with the market taking on an impressive tone at sunset.

The Christkindl Markt am Karlsplatz is another top choice, located in the city centre with the beautiful Karlskirche as its backdrop. Inside the church, you can do a Virtual Reality tour and feel like you're flying around the grounds.

The Spittelberg market is also worth a visit, with its picturesque setting in the quaint neighbourhood of Spittelberg, just a short walk from the Christkindlmarkt am Rathausplatz. This market offers a great selection of gifts for your friends and family.

When visiting the Christmas markets, be sure to try some traditional Viennese foods, such as Glühwein (mulled wine), Maroni (roasted chestnuts), Schaumrollen (tube-shaped pastries filled with cream or meringue), Langos (Hungarian deep-fried flatbread), and Lebkuchen (the German/Austrian version of gingerbread cookies).

Go ice skating

Vienna is a winter wonderland for ice skating enthusiasts, with a host of attractions on offer for both locals and guests. Here are some top spots to go ice skating in Vienna during the winter:

Vienna Ice Dream

One of the most popular spots for ice skating in Vienna is Vienna Ice Dream, located right in front of the majestic Vienna City Hall. This outdoor ice rink offers a fairytale-like backdrop for skaters, with the beautifully illuminated facade of the City Hall. The rink features multiple large ice skating paths and a viewing platform on the second floor. You can also conveniently access food and drink stalls without having to take off your skates. Vienna Ice Dream usually opens from January to March and is a must-do winter activity in Vienna.

Wiener Eislaufverein

For a more traditional ice skating experience, head to Wiener Eislaufverein, which has a long and prestigious history. Established in 1867, this open-air ice rink is easily accessible just outside the old town. The rink has a unique setting, with the majestic Konzerthaus concert hall on one side and the modern Intercontinental Hotel on the other. Wiener Eislaufverein has produced several European, World, and Olympic figure skating champions and is a beloved spot for locals.

Vienna Ice World

From January until March, Vienna's City Hall Square transforms into Vienna Ice World, one of the biggest open-air artificial ice rinks in the world. With two levels of ice skating fun, it offers an entertaining experience for skaters of all ages. The Sky Rink, a skating terrace on the first floor with a 150-meter-long ramp, is a highlight. You can also rent pre-heated ice skates and lockers for your belongings on-site. Vienna Ice World is a magical experience, with wild and elegant skating moves performed to popular music hits and waltz tunes.

Indoor Skating Rinks

If you prefer indoor skating rinks, Vienna has several modern options, such as the Steffl Arena and the Ice rink at Wiener Stadthalle. These indoor facilities provide a comfortable skating experience, shielded from the winter weather.

Ice skating is undoubtedly one of the most enjoyable winter activities in Vienna, offering a blend of fun, exercise, and breathtaking backdrops. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced skater, Vienna's ice rinks will surely delight you. So, put on your skates and glide your way through the winter wonderland of Vienna!

Explore the coffee culture

Vienna is a city steeped in coffee history. The Austrian capital's coffee house culture is renowned worldwide, and with good reason. Coffee and coffee houses are at their best in Vienna!

The history of Viennese coffee houses dates back to the end of the Siege of Vienna in 1683. Legend has it that the Viennese citizen Georg Franz Kolschitzky was the first to obtain a licence to serve coffee in the city. However, the first coffee house in Vienna was actually opened by the Armenian spy and businessman, Diodato (aka Johannes Theodat or Deodat and Owanes Astouatzatur). He served at the Viennese Imperial court and knew about the art of preparing coffee from his time in his home country, Armenia.

Viennese coffee houses already had several characteristics that are still typical of them today. Waiters served a glass of water with every cup of coffee, and the coffee houses were equipped with card games and pool tables. In 1720, the Kramersches Kaffeehaus in Vienna's city centre was the first to put out newspapers for its guests to read.

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, leading writers of the time became attached to the atmosphere of Viennese coffee houses and were frequently seen to meet, exchange ideas, and even write there. The Austrian writer, Stefan Zweig, described the Viennese coffee house as:

> "...a sort of democratic club, open to everyone for the price of a cheap cup of coffee, where every guest can sit for hours...to talk, write, play cards, receive post, and above all consume an unlimited number of newspapers and journals."

Viennese coffee houses are known for their elegant interiors, featuring marble tabletops, Thonet chairs, newspaper tables, and interior design details in the style of historicism. They entice customers with a wide variety of coffee drinks, international newspapers, and pastry creations.

• Café Central
• Café Demel
• Café Sacher
• Café Hawelka
• Café Landtmann
• Café Museum
• Café Savoy
• Café Schwarzenberg
• Café Sperl
• Kaffee Alt Wien
• Café Bräunerhof
• Café Griensteidl
• Café Prückel
• Vollension

When visiting Vienna in winter, be sure to indulge in the traditional Austrian coffee culture and warm up in one of the city's historic coffee houses.

Take a walking tour

Walking is a great way to get to know Vienna, and there are several excellent suggestions for self-guided and guided walking tours. Here is a detailed breakdown of what to expect on a walking tour of Vienna during winter.

Old Vienna Walk

The Old Vienna Walk is a self-guided tour that you can access via a Google Map with walking instructions. This tour will take you through the picturesque alleys and cobblestone streets of Old Town Vienna, where you'll be surrounded by giant, beautiful old buildings. You'll get to explore the history, culture, and unique attractions that make Vienna such an incredible destination. Wander through the Inner Stadt, aka Old Town, and admire the giant, beautiful old buildings on all sides.

Vienna History Walking Tour

If you're interested in delving deeper into Vienna's history, the Vienna History Walking Tour is a great option. This guided tour will take you through the city's imperial history, including the stories of queens, kings, Habsburgs, monarchs, Ottomans, and Nazis. You'll learn about the rich and dramatic past of this fascinating city.

Vienna by Night: History, Myths, & Legends

For a spookier take on Vienna's history, consider the "Vienna by Night: History, Myths, & Legends" tour. This evening walking tour will introduce you to the city's haunted spots and creepiest tales. You'll learn about Vienna's dark and mysterious side while exploring its beautiful night-time scenery.

Empress Sisi and Imperial Apartments Walking Tour

The Empress Sisi and Imperial Apartments Walking Tour will give you insight into the life of one of Austria's most famous women, Empress Elisabeth, also known as Sisi. You'll get to explore her former apartment, her favourite shops, and other notable historical buildings. This tour combines history, culture, and a glimpse into the daily life of a remarkable woman.

Vienna Unwrapped Self-Guided Tours

Vienna Unwrapped offers a variety of self-guided walking tour options that you can access through their website. These tours cover different themes and areas of the city, allowing you to explore at your own pace and focus on the aspects that interest you the most. With Vienna Unwrapped, you can create your own customised walking tour experience.

Practical Information

When exploring Vienna on foot during the winter, make sure to dress warmly and comfortably. The weather can be cold, with average temperatures around freezing point. Wear layers, a warm coat, a hat, gloves, and comfortable walking boots. Don't forget to bring a reusable water bottle and some snacks to keep your energy levels up during your walk.

Vienna's public transportation system is efficient and can be useful for getting to and from your walking tour starting point. The Vienna Card offers unlimited use of the metro, tram, and bus in downtown Vienna, which can be convenient if you plan to use public transportation multiple times during your stay.

Visit Schönbrunn Palace

Schönbrunn Palace is a must-visit destination in Vienna, especially during the winter months when you can witness the beauty of its snow-covered Baroque architecture. Here is a detailed guide to help you plan your visit:

History and Significance:

Schönbrunn Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, was the main summer residence of the Habsburg rulers. The name, meaning "beautiful spring," is derived from an artesian well in the area that supplied water to the court. The palace has a rich history spanning over 300 years, reflecting the changing tastes and aspirations of successive Habsburg monarchs. It has been a major tourist attraction since the 1950s.

Things to Do and See:

• Explore the Palace: Discover the lavish state apartments, including the private rooms of Emperor Franz Joseph and Empress Elisabeth, and admire the stunning 18th and 19th-century interiors. Gain insights into the lives of the imperial family and explore their daily routines and personal tastes.
• Stroll through the Gardens: Don't miss the beautifully sculpted gardens, spanning 160 hectares. Take a walk up to the Gloriette, a structure built to glorify Habsburg power, and enjoy breathtaking views over Vienna. The gardens also feature unique follies, such as the Roman Ruin, and the Neptune Fountain, which was part of the original design by Empress Maria Theresa.
• Attend a Concert: Immerse yourself in the music of Mozart and his contemporaries by attending a concert at the Schönbrunn Palace Orchestra. The orchestra performs daily at the original location of the world-famous contest between Mozart and Salieri in 1786.
• Guided Tours: Enhance your experience with a guided tour. The "Guided Tour Maria Theresia" takes you through the magnificent Bergl Rooms, ceremonial state rooms, and the remarkable life of Empress Maria Theresa. The "Guided Tour Franz Joseph" includes the state rooms and private apartments of the imperial couple, offering a glimpse behind the scenes.
• Marionette Theatre: Enjoy a unique theatrical experience at the Marionette Theatre, where you'll find hand-crafted marionettes bringing stories to life. The playing technique of this theatre has been recognised as part of UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritage.
• Cafes and Restaurants: Indulge in delicious cuisine at the various cafes and restaurants within the palace grounds, such as the Schönbrunner Schlosscafé, Café Restaurant Kaiserpavillon, and Restaurant Kutscher G'wölb.
• Virtual Reality Experience: Take a journey back in time with the latest VR technology. Step into the world of the Austrian Empire and witness historical moments in the lives of the Habsburgs.

Practical Information:

The palace is easily accessible by public transit. Opening times are 8:30 am to 5:00 pm daily, while the gardens are open from 6:30 am to 5:30 pm. Tickets can be purchased online or at the official website, with options for audio guides and guided tours.

Frequently asked questions