Lexi Webster
Austria in December is a paradise for winter sports enthusiasts and those seeking a festive atmosphere. With temperatures dropping to as low as -20°C during the night, the country often experiences snow, especially in its famous ski resorts. The eastern edge of Austria falls into the Pannonia climate zone, while the western region, including Tyrol and Vorarlberg, offers a winter wonderland of snow-covered landscapes. Salzburg, with its skyline of domes and towers, is a romantic destination, with a Christmas market dating back to the 15th century. Vienna, the nation's capital, also experiences snowfall, although the amount varies from year to year. For those seeking snow, heading to higher altitudes increases the chances of a white Christmas, and the Alps are just a day trip away from the capital.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Snowfall in December | It snows during late December in Austria, with the amount of snow varying from 1 cm to over 2 meters. |
| Regions with Snowfall | Tyrol, Vorarlberg, Carinthia, Salzburg, Styria, Burgenland, Lower Austria, Upper Austria, Vienna, and the Alps. |
| Temperature | The temperature in December can go as low as -20°C during the night, with the coldest months being January and February. |
| Activities | Skiing, visiting Christmas markets, horse-drawn sleigh rides, and enjoying the music and wine. |
Explore related products
$24.71 $40
$14.99 $14.99
What You'll Learn
Skiing in Tyrol
Tyrol, or Tirol, in Austria is a popular destination for skiing and snowboarding. The region transforms into a winter wonderland at the end of November, with snow-covered landscapes and a range of ski resorts to choose from. From small family ski areas to huge winter sports arenas, Tyrol has the greatest choice of ski resorts in the Alps.
The ski resorts in Tyrol offer something for everyone, from beginners to experienced skiers. Ski schools and courses with motivated instructors are available for those new to the sport. The largest ski resorts in Tyrol offer up to 300 kilometres of slopes, such as St. Anton, St. Christoph, and Lech, which are part of Ski Arlberg. The highest ski resort in Tyrol reaches an altitude of 3,440 metres, which is the Pitztal Glacier.
For those looking for a more contemplative experience, December in Tyrol is a special time. Christmas markets open their gates, and customs such as the Krampus parade and the "Klaubaufgehen" are celebrated. The new year is welcomed with ski shows and fireworks, so there is always something to do on and off the slopes.
When planning a ski trip to Tyrol, it is important to keep the weather in mind. December temperatures can range from a minimum of -4 degrees Celsius to a maximum of 4 degrees Celsius. It is recommended to bring warm clothes, as temperatures can drop significantly at night, sometimes to as low as minus 7 degrees Celsius.
Exploring Vienna's County: Austria's Cultural Hub
You may want to see also
Explore related products
$12.6 $12.6
Christmas markets in Salzburg
In December, Austria transforms into a winter wonderland, with snow-covered landscapes and Christmas markets. One of the most popular destinations for Christmas markets is Salzburg, which has a long history dating back to the late 15th century.
The historic Salzburg Christkindlmarkt, celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2024, is located in the heart of the city's UNESCO World Heritage Site. The market offers a unique atmosphere with traditional decorations, local folk customs, gifts, incense, and delectable Austrian specialties like mulled wine and hot punch. It is open daily from 10 am to 8:30 pm, with extended hours on Fridays and Saturdays until 9 pm.
Another notable market is the famous "Nikolaimarkt" or Saint Nicholas' Market, which was mentioned as early as the 15th century. This market is held for two weeks before and after St. Nicholas' Day (December 6) in Cathedral Square, offering a wide range of goods, from food and drinks to dolls and bric-a-brac.
Salzburg also offers other charming Christmas markets, such as the one in Mirabell Square, known for its culinary delights, mulled wine, and beautifully decorated stalls. The Advent Market St. Leonhard, located near the pilgrimage church, features traditional gingerbread, roasted chestnuts, punch, and a children's bakery, along with an entertainment programme including brass bands.
For those interested in local arts and crafts, the Christmas Market in front of the Silent Night Chapel, where the famous carol originated, is a must-visit. Visitors can admire wood carvings and handmade decorations while enjoying Christmas music, mulled wine, and roasted chestnuts.
With the Salzburg Card, you can also explore the fortress and enjoy stunning views of the city, adding to the magical experience of visiting Salzburg's Christmas markets during the snowy month of December.
Dominos in Austria: Availability and Accessibility Explored
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Snow in Vienna
Vienna, Austria, experiences snow every year, with amounts ranging from 1 cm to over 2 metres. However, the likelihood of snow on Christmas Day specifically is lower, with only a brief smattering of snow recorded on the evening of December 25, 2021. The surrounding hills and nearby small hills may receive more snowfall than the city centre, as brown slush is common in urban areas.
The Vienna Woods, city parks, and seasonal Christmas markets are particularly enchanting when coated in fresh snow. For a more substantial winter wonderland experience, the Alps are accessible via a day trip by car or public transport.
December in Vienna marks the beginning of a more contemplative period, with Christmas markets, festive sounds, and customs such as the Krampus parade and the "Klaubaufgehen". Warm clothing is recommended, as temperatures can drop significantly at night, reaching up to minus 7 degrees Celsius.
The weather data for snow in Vienna shows a broad trend towards warmer winters. The average monthly snowfall totals are based on data collected between 1981 and 2010, or 1971 and 2000 for some locations. The number of days with snow cover is calculated using measurements from 1971 to 2000, counting only days with a snow depth of at least 1 centimetre.
The Salzach River: Austria and Salzburg's Natural Divide
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Husky ranches in mountain villages
If you're looking for a winter wonderland, Austria is the place to be from the end of November. The single skiing areas of Tyrol are transformed into a real winter wonderland, with sun-drenched landscapes covered in snow. The valleys also become a romantic setting, perfect for a torchlit walk or a horse-drawn sleigh ride.
For a unique experience, you can visit one of the many husky ranches in Austria's mountain villages. Here are some options to consider:
Husky Ranch of Sonja Schönbauer and Joachim Buzek
Located in Zillingtal, in the Burgenland region, this ranch is just an hour's drive from Vienna. With a pack of over 15 huskies, they offer planned Husky-Trekking tours and Husky-Schnuppertage (a day to get a taste of the life of a husky). You can also design a personalised husky day according to your preferences.
Huskycamp of Alex Serdjukov
In Maria Lankowitz in the Styria region, this camp offers Schlittenhunden-Workshops (sleigh dog workshops) and Husky-Trekking tours. During the winter wander through the snowy Alps, you will be physically connected to your dog via a hip belt, creating a special bond.
Husky Ranch of Christa and Bernd Spiessberger
Based in the beautiful Salzkammergut, this ranch offers Husky-Erlebnistage (husky experience days) and extended walks with the dogs. You can learn about the sled dogs, cuddle the pups, and even take a keepsake photo.
Husky Ranch of Toni Kuttner
In Bludesch, Vorarlberg, you will find the stars of the show—a dog pack that regularly models for photoshoots. Here, you can go snowshoe hiking with the dogs or take multi-day courses in dog sledding.
Whether you're seeking a day trip or an extended adventure, these husky ranches offer a range of activities to enjoy the Austrian snow while bonding with these magnificent dogs.
Prussia's Triumph Over Austria: The War's Outcome
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Fireworks in the new year
Austria is a great place to visit in December for a snowy winter getaway. Tyrol, for example, is a single skiing area that transforms into a winter wonderland from the end of November. The valley also turns into a romantic setting, perfect for torchlight walks and horse-drawn sleigh rides.
Now, if you're in Austria for New Year's, you're in for a treat. The Austrians sure know how to celebrate! Kicking off on 31 December, the New Year's Eve Trail (or Silvesterpfad) in Vienna is a massive party zone, attracting millions of revellers from across the globe. The trail starts at 2 pm and ends at 2 am on New Year's Day. There are parties throughout the country, but Vienna is the place to be for fireworks. The best displays can be seen at Heldenplatz, with breathtaking views of fireworks over the Danube River. The Imperial Palace also hosts extravagant parties, and the main national TV station plays Dinner for One, a short comedy sketch, in the hour before midnight.
At midnight, the giant Pummerin bell of Vienna's Stephansdom cathedral rings in the New Year, with the chimes broadcast across TV and radio. Then, as the last echoes of the Pummerin fade away, firework displays across the city burst into action. Broadcasters switch to the Blue Danube waltz, and everyone dances into the New Year as lights explode across the night sky.
If you're looking for something a little different, Innsbruck is another great place to ring in the New Year. Nestled in the Alps, it offers breathtaking views of fireworks on 2,000m above sea level, with music, dancing, and a great atmosphere. You can also enjoy fireworks displays with laser shows around the mountain range, Nordkette.
Pruning Austrian Black Pine: Topiary Artistry and Techniques
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
You can see snow in the Austrian Alps, as well as in the cities of Salzburg and Vienna.
In December, Austria is a winter wonderland, with Christmas markets, skiing, and torchlit walks.
It is very cold in Austria in December, with temperatures dropping to -20°C at night, so be sure to bring warm clothes.
