Lyla Lindsey
Austria in December is a winter wonderland, with abundant snow and plenty of festive cheer. The country's famous Alpine mountains are a magnet for snow lovers and skiers, with December marking the start of the winter sports season. While snow is prevalent in the mountains, lower-lying cities such as Vienna, Salzburg, and Innsbruck also experience snowfall, although it's usually not as deep. The western city of Innsbruck, in particular, is an excellent destination for snow sports enthusiasts, offering ski fields accessible by cable car and nearby ski resorts. December in Austria is also a magical time to visit the country's famous Christmas markets, with the historic Old Town of Innsbruck and the Salzberg market, dating back to the 15th century, being highlights. So, whether you're a skier or a sightseer, Austria in December has something for everyone.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Season | Winter |
| Snowfall | Frequent |
| Snow Sports | Skiing, snowboarding |
| Christmas Markets | Traditional markets, music, treats |
| Cities | Vienna, Salzburg, Innsbruck, Graz, Linz |
| Temperatures | -11°C to 5°C |
| Daylight Hours | 2-3 hours of sunlight |
| Humidity | 70% to 95% |
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What You'll Learn
Skiing and other snow sports
December is the start of winter in Austria, and it's a great time to visit if you're looking to ski or take part in other snow sports. The country is known for its Alpine mountains, which are a magnet for snow in the winter months. It snows in these mountains from November onwards, with skiing possible often until April.
In December, you can expect a range of weather conditions, with temperatures varying from very cold to cold, and precipitation levels ranging from moderate to high. The average maximum temperature is very cold in Matrei in Osttirol at -5°C, while in Bad Radkersburg, the average maximum is 5°C. Night-time temperatures can drop to -11°C in Matrei in Osttirol and -2°C in Bad Radkersburg. In Neustift im Stubaital, daytime temperatures can reach a maximum of around -2°C, while night-time temperatures can drop to a minimum of -11°C.
While December is relatively early in the snow sports season, you can still find good skiing conditions at higher altitudes. Cities like Vienna and Salzburg may also have snow on the ground, although it's usually not very deep. The western city of Innsbruck is a popular destination for snow sports enthusiasts, with ski areas including Mayrhofen, Zillertal, Kitzbühel, and Hafelekar-Rinne, one of the steepest ski runs in Europe. Non-skiers can enjoy the mountain views, explore the city's imperial and Gothic architecture, or sample Austrian food and drink.
If you're looking for a smaller ski area, Zauberg Semmering is just a 75-minute drive or train ride from Vienna. Seefeld in Tirol has a reputation as a bit of a snowhole, but the village is still worth visiting for its setting among the mountains. For guaranteed snow, you can visit the Zillertal with the Hintertux Glacier, or ski resorts like Mayrhofen and Finenberg.
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Christmas markets
December is the start of winter in Austria, which means snow, skiing and Christmas markets. The country is filled with romantic Christmas markets, from mid-November until the end of the year. The cities twinkle with lights, while the scent of mulled wine and roasted almonds fills the festively decorated streets.
One of the most charming Advent markets is in St. Wolfgang, where you can experience regional traditions and authentic handicrafts, with the floating red Advent candle on Lake Wolfgang in view. In the Johannesbach Gorge near Würflach, you'll find Austria's tallest decorated Christmas tree, standing at over 20 metres high. Visitors can warm up by open fires and admire the craftsmanship of glassblowers and blacksmiths, while also enjoying regional delicacies, gingerbread, and punch.
The capital city of Tyrol region, Innsbruck, has some of the prettiest Christmas markets in the alpine region. In the historic Old Town, surrounded by multicolour medieval facades, the traditional Christmas Market is bustling with winter treats. The Panorama Christmas Market on Hungerburg Hill offers breathtaking views of the mountain snow, plenty of alpine treats, and a musical programme every Sunday evening.
Salzburg is another picturesque place to visit at Christmas time, with its beautiful skyline of domes and towers. The Salzburg Christmas market dates back to the 15th century and is located in front of the stunning Cathedral. The market is filled with twinkling lights and carolers, making it the perfect setting for some holiday cheer.
Vienna is also home to some of Europe's most famous Christmas markets. The Christkindlmarkt at Rathausplatz is one of the largest markets in the city, with stalls selling crafts and food, as well as an ice skating rink. The Culture and Christmas Market at Schönbrunn Palace exudes imperial flair, with elegant crafts and nostalgic toys. The Belvedere Palace Christmas Village is another popular market in Vienna, full of creative gift ideas and culinary discoveries.
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Mountainous regions
December is the start of winter in Austria, which means snow is on the way. As a landlocked country in Central Europe, Austrian winters are cold and snowy, especially in the mountains.
In the mountainous regions, expect plenty of deep powder and ideal skiing conditions. Tyrol, in Western Austria, is known for its abundant and frequent snowfall, especially in areas like the Ötztal Alps and the Zillertal Valley. The Nordkette Cable Car in Innsbruck, the capital of Tyrol, takes passengers to the city's ski fields. Ski areas near Innsbruck include Mayrhofen, Zillertal, Kitzbühel, and Hafelekar-Rinne, one of the steepest ski runs in Europe. Seefeld in Tirol, between Innsbruck and Mittenwald, is also known as a snowhole.
The mountainous northern and western parts of Styria, in the southeast, also get a lot of snow. This includes the Dachstein mountain range and the Ennstal Alps. The region of Salzburg, located in central Austria, is also a winter wonderland in December, especially at higher altitudes. Ski resorts are everywhere, thanks to consistent and heavy snowfall in the Alpine areas.
December is relatively early in the snow sports season, so the more reliable snow can be found at higher altitudes. However, skiing is often possible until April, and Upper Austria sees frequent snow in its southern Alpine areas.
When visiting Austria in December, it's important to be prepared for the cold. Choose clothing that is both layered and insulating to combat the cold effectively.
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Cities with snow
December is the start of winter in Austria, and with it comes snow, skiing, and Christmas markets. The country is known for its Alpine mountains, which are a magnet for snow in the winter months. The snow usually starts falling in the mountains from November onwards, with skiing often possible until April.
The western city of Innsbruck is a great destination in December, offering both snow sports and gentler activities. The Nordkette Cable Car takes passengers to the city's ski fields. Ski areas near Innsbruck include Mayrhofen, Zillertal, Kitzbühel, and Hafelekar-Rinne, one of the steepest ski runs in Europe. Non-skiers can enjoy the mountain views, imperial and Gothic architecture, and Austrian food and drink.
The capital city of the Tyrol region, Innsbruck, is known for its picturesque Christmas markets in the historic Old Town, surrounded by multicoloured medieval facades. For a true Alpine experience, take the Hungerbaghbahn funicular railway line up to Hungerburg Hill for the Panorama Christmas Market, where you'll find breathtaking mountain views, plenty of treats, and a musical programme every Sunday evening.
Salzburg, located in central Austria and known as the "Green Heart of Austria," is a winter wonderland in December, especially at higher altitudes. Ski resorts are abundant due to the consistent and heavy snowfall in the Alpine areas. The city of Salzburg itself is also likely to have snow in December, with temperatures dipping below freezing at night.
Vienna, the capital of Austria, may also experience snowfall in December, although it's usually not too deep. The city typically sees around 52 hours of sunlight in December, indicating fewer sunny days. If you're looking for a small ski area near Vienna, the Zauberg Semmering is just a 75-minute drive or a train ride away on the Semmeringbahn mountain railway.
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What to wear
December in Austria is cold and snowy, especially in the mountains. The average maximum temperature is around -5°C, and nighttime temperatures can drop to -11°C. So, when it comes to what to wear, it's important to prioritise warmth and insulation.
To stay warm in Austria in December, it's recommended to wear multiple layers of clothing. Start with a base layer of thermal underwear, preferably made from a moisture-wicking material like merino wool, to keep perspiration away from your skin. Over that, add a middle layer of insulating clothing, such as a fleece jacket or a woollen sweater. This will trap body heat and provide additional warmth. Finally, you'll need an outer layer to protect you from the wind and precipitation. A waterproof and windproof jacket with a hood will be ideal.
For your lower body, consider wearing thermal leggings or long underwear under a pair of insulated trousers or salopettes. Again, look for something waterproof and windproof to protect against the elements.
Footwear is important, too. You'll want to keep your feet warm and dry, so choose insulated, waterproof boots with good traction to prevent slipping on icy surfaces. Don't forget to pack thick, woollen socks, too.
Accessories are key to staying warm. A hat that covers your ears is essential, as a lot of body heat is lost through the head. Gloves or mittens are also a must, and you may want to opt for a pair that is touchscreen-compatible so you can still use your phone. Lastly, a scarf will help to keep your neck warm and can also be used to cover your face if it's particularly cold and windy.
If you plan on participating in snow sports, you may need additional specialised clothing and equipment, such as a ski jacket, ski pants, ski goggles, and helmets, which are mandatory for children under 15.
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Frequently asked questions
December is winter in Austria, which means snow, skiing and other winter sports. The month sees a range of weather conditions, with temperatures varying from very cold to cold and precipitation levels ranging from moderate to high. Snowfall is more common in elevated regions like the Wienerwald and Mostviertel, while the Danube Valley sees less frequent snow.
In December, snow may be on the ground in lower-lying cities such as Vienna, Salzburg and Innsbruck. However, for more reliable snow, head to higher altitudes such as the ski resorts in the Alps.
Ski resorts abound in Austria in December, thanks to consistent and heavy snowfall in the Alpine areas. Some of the most famous ski resorts in the world are in the Tyrol region, including the Ötztal Alps and the Zillertal Valley. Other popular ski areas near Innsbruck include Mayrhofen, Kitzbühel, and Hafelekar-Rinne, one of the steepest ski runs in Europe.
December in Austria brings chilling temperatures, so it's important to pack clothing that is both layered and insulating to combat the cold effectively.
December is a great time to visit Austria's Christmas markets, such as the traditional market in Innsbruck's historic Old Town or the Panorama Christmas Market, which can be reached by taking the Hungerbaghbahn funicular railway line up to Hungerburg Hill.
