5-Day Christmas Holiday Experience in Vienna, Austria

Vienna, Austria

5 days

Snowfall
Christmas decorations in Wien Rathaus market
Vienna Kohlmarkt street during night and christmas time
Wooden kiosk with handmade Christmas decorations in Vienna
Palace Belvedere with Christmas Market

About Vienna, Austria

Experience the grandeur of Vienna, Austria's capital, renowned for its cultural and historical richness. Marvel at the imperial palaces of Schönbrunn and Hofburg, or immerse yourself in the world of classical music at the Vienna State Opera. Explore the city's artistic side at the Museum of Fine Arts and the Belvedere Palace, housing works by Klimt and Schiele. Stroll through the charming streets of the Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and enjoy traditional Viennese coffee houses and wine taverns. Don't miss the iconic St. Stephen's Cathedral and the vibrant Naschmarkt. Vienna seamlessly blends its regal past with a dynamic, modern lifestyle, making it a must-visit European destination.

5-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Christmas Markets and Concert at Vienna State Opera

Morning

Start your day at the Vienna Christmas World on Rathausplatz, where the city hall provides a glittering backdrop for the city's largest Christmas market. Enjoy the festive atmosphere, the aroma of Christmas bakery items and hot punch.

Lunch

Have a traditional Austrian lunch at a local restaurant in the city center.

Afternoon

Visit the Schönbrunn Palace and explore its Christmas Market. This market is famous for its unique setting, cultural programme, and beautiful handcrafted goods.

Dinner

Enjoy a hearty Austrian dinner at a local restaurant near the palace.

Evening

End your day with a magical Christmas concert at the Vienna State Opera.

Morning

Start your day at St. Stephen's Cathedral, a landmark of Vienna and one of the most important Gothic structures in Austria.

Lunch

Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant in the city center.

Afternoon

Visit the Belvedere Palace and explore its Christmas Village. Here, you can find high-quality products from Austria and all over the world.

Dinner

Have dinner at a local restaurant near the palace.

Evening

Experience a traditional Viennese ball at the Hofburg Palace, which hosts numerous balls during the Christmas season.

Morning

Visit the Vienna Zoo, the oldest zoo in the world, located in the grounds of Schönbrunn Palace.

Lunch

Have lunch at a local restaurant near the zoo.

Afternoon

Explore the Museum of Art History, which houses an extensive collection of artworks and is especially famous for its Bruegel collection.

Dinner

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant in the city center.

Evening

Attend a performance at the Vienna Boys' Choir, one of the best known boys' choirs in the world.

Morning

Start your day at the Vienna Woods, a designated Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO. Enjoy a winter hike or a horse-drawn sleigh ride.

Lunch

Have lunch at a local restaurant in the Vienna Woods area.

Afternoon

Visit the Albertina Museum, home to one of the largest and most important print rooms in the world.

Dinner

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant in the city center.

Evening

End your day with a visit to the Vienna Ice World, an ice skating rink set up in front of the city hall during the winter season.

Morning

Visit the Spanish Riding School, a traditional riding school for Lipizzan horses, which offers public performances.

Lunch

Have lunch at a local restaurant in the city center.

Afternoon

Explore the Vienna State Opera, one of the leading opera houses in the world.

Dinner

Enjoy your last dinner in Vienna at a local restaurant in the city center.

Evening

End your trip with a visit to the Prater, a large public park in Vienna, and take a ride on the Giant Ferris Wheel for a panoramic view of the city.

Attractions in Itinerary (14)

Vienna Christmas World on Rathausplatz

1
Vienna Christmas World on Rathausplatz

The Vienna Christmas World on Rathausplatz is a beloved annual event that transforms the city's main square into a festive wonderland. It features over 150 stalls selling Christmas decorations, crafts, and traditional Austrian food and drink.

Attractions
Cultural Experiences
Shopping
Schönbrunn Palace

2
Schönbrunn Palace

A former imperial summer residence with an impressive garden. The 1,441-room Baroque palace is one of the most important architectural, cultural, and historical monuments in the country.

Attractions
Monuments
Landmarks
Cultural Experiences
Architecture
Gardens
Vienna State Opera

3
Vienna State Opera

One of the leading opera houses in the world, offering a variety of performances including opera, ballet, and concerts.

Attractions
Entertainment
Cultural Experiences
Architecture
St. Stephen's Cathedral

4
St. Stephen's Cathedral

One of Vienna's most iconic landmarks, St. Stephen's Cathedral boasts stunning Gothic architecture and a rich history.

Attractions
Monuments
Religious Sites
Belvedere Palace

5
Belvedere Palace

A historic building complex consisting of two Baroque palaces, the Orangery, and the Palace Stables. The buildings are set in a Baroque park landscape and houses the Belvedere museum.

Attractions
Monuments
Cultural Experiences
Architecture
Hofburg Palace

6
Hofburg Palace

The former imperial palace in the center of Vienna. It was the principal imperial winter residence, as Schönbrunn Palace was their summer residence.

Attractions
Monuments
Landmarks
Cultural Experiences
Architecture
Vienna Zoo

7
Vienna Zoo

Located within the grounds of the Schönbrunn Palace, the Vienna Zoo is the oldest continuously operating zoo in the world.

Attractions
Parks
Cultural Experiences
Museum of Art History

8
Museum of Art History

One of the most important museums in the world, the Museum of Art History in Vienna houses an extensive collection of ancient, medieval and baroque art pieces.

Museums
Cultural Experiences
Architecture
Vienna Boys' Choir

9
Vienna Boys' Choir

The Vienna Boys' Choir is one of the best known boys' choirs in the world. It is based in Vienna, Austria and has a long and illustrious history dating back to the 15th century.

Cultural Experiences
Entertainment
Vienna Woods

10
Vienna Woods

A large forested highland region on the outskirts of Vienna, offering hiking trails and panoramic views.

Attractions
Parks
Tours
Sports
Albertina Museum

11
Albertina Museum

The Albertina Museum is a museum in Vienna that houses one of the largest and most important print rooms in the world. It features a collection of over a million old master prints and modern graphic works, as well as more contemporary works of art.

Museums
Cultural Experiences
Architecture
Vienna Ice World

12
Vienna Ice World

Vienna Ice World is a popular winter attraction in Vienna, Austria. It offers a large ice skating rink, as well as other winter sports activities such as curling and ice hockey.

Attractions
Sports
Entertainment
Spanish Riding School

13
Spanish Riding School

The Spanish Riding School in Vienna is a traditional riding school for Lipizzan horses. It has been an equestrian training center for more than 450 years. The school offers public performances and is a part of Vienna's rich culture and history.

Attractions
Cultural Experiences
Entertainment
Prater

14
Prater

A large public park that houses the Wiener Riesenrad Ferris wheel and a theme park.

Attractions
Parks
Entertainment
Sports

Local Food and Drinks (12)

Wiener Schnitzel

Wiener Schnitzel

A traditional Austrian dish, Wiener Schnitzel is a breaded and pan-fried veal cutlet. It's a must-try food when visiting Vienna.

Sachertorte

Sachertorte

This is a famous Viennese chocolate cake with a thin layer of apricot jam, coated in dark chocolate icing. It's a classic dessert in Vienna.

Apfelstrudel

Apfelstrudel

A traditional Viennese dessert, Apfelstrudel is a pastry filled with apples, sugar, cinnamon, and raisins. It's often served with whipped cream.

Tafelspitz

Tafelspitz

Tafelspitz is a popular Viennese dish, consisting of boiled beef in broth, served with a mix of minced apples and horseradish.

Kaiserschmarrn

Kaiserschmarrn

This is a sweet pancake-like dish, named after Emperor Franz Joseph I of Austria. It's often served with powdered sugar and apple or plum compote.

Vienna Sausages

Vienna Sausages

These are traditional Austrian sausages, typically served with mustard and fresh bread. They're a popular street food in Vienna.

Marillenknödel

Marillenknödel

Marillenknödel are sweet dumplings filled with apricots, a specialty of Vienna. They're often served dusted with powdered sugar.

Goulash

Goulash

Originating from Hungary, Goulash has become a staple in Viennese cuisine. It's a hearty stew made with beef, vegetables, and a generous amount of paprika.

Rindsuppe

Rindsuppe is a traditional Austrian beef soup, often served as a starter in Viennese meals.

Powidl

Powidl

This is a thick, sweet spread made from plums. It's a traditional Viennese condiment often used in baking or spread on bread.

Sturm

Sturm is a seasonal Austrian wine, typically available in autumn. It's a must-try for wine lovers visiting Vienna.

Melange

Melange is a traditional Viennese coffee, similar to a cappuccino. It's a blend of frothed milk and coffee, often served with a glass of water.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Vienna, Austria is typically during the spring and fall, specifically April through June, and September through October. During these periods, the weather is generally pleasant and the city is less crowded compared to the peak summer months. However, if you enjoy festive atmospheres, December is also a great time to visit as Vienna is famous for its enchanting Christmas markets.

National holidays

Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.

DateDayHoliday Name

January 1

Mon

New Year's Day

January 6

Sat

Epiphany

April 1

Mon

Easter Monday

May 1

Wed

Labor Day / May Day

May 9

Thu

Ascension Day

May 20

Mon

Whit Monday

May 30

Thu

Corpus Christi

August 15

Thu

Assumption of Mary

October 26

Sat

National Day

November 1

Fri

All Saints' Day

December 8

Sun

Immaculate Conception

December 25

Wed

Christmas Day

December 26

Thu

St. Stephen's Day

Please note that during national and public holidays, opening hours for establishments, museums, etc. may vary. Don't forget to check in advance!

How to get around

Vienna's underground railway system, the U-Bahn, is a fast and efficient way to get around the city. It consists of five lines (U1, U2, U3, U4, and U6) that cover most of the city's major attractions.

The S-Bahn is a suburban train system that connects Vienna with its surrounding areas. It's a great option if you're planning to visit destinations outside the city center.

Vienna has an extensive tram network, which is a great way to see the city at a slower pace. The Ringstrasse Tram, in particular, offers a scenic route around the city's historic center.

Buses in Vienna are primarily used to cover areas not reached by the U-Bahn or tram. The city's night bus service, Nightline, operates after the U-Bahn and trams have stopped running.

Citybike Vienna is a bike-sharing program that allows you to rent bikes for short trips around the city. There are numerous bike stations located throughout Vienna.

Taxis are readily available in Vienna and can be hailed on the street, booked by phone, or picked up from designated taxi stands.

Ridesharing services, such as Uber, are available in Vienna. This can be a convenient option for getting around, especially if you're traveling in a group or have a lot of luggage.

Vienna's city center is compact and pedestrian-friendly, making walking an enjoyable and practical way to get around. Many of the city's major attractions are within easy walking distance of each other.

Vienna is located on the Danube River, and there are several boat services that offer river cruises. This can be a scenic and relaxing way to see the city.

While driving in Vienna is not recommended due to the excellent public transportation and heavy traffic, car rental services are available for those who prefer to drive.

While we strive for accuracy in our "How to get around" section, the information may not always be up-to-date or 100% accurate; we highly recommend cross-checking with local resources before your travel.

Important information

Currency€ EUR

Time zoneUTC+1

Driving sideRight

Emergency phone112, 122

Drinking waterYes

Power sockets

Power socket type CPower socket type F

Voltage230 V

Things to know about Vienna, Austria as a first time visitor

1

Vienna is the capital and largest city of Austria.

2

The official language is German, but many locals also speak English.

3

The currency used in Vienna is the Euro (€).

4

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's always a good idea to carry some cash for smaller establishments or street vendors.

5

Vienna has a temperate continental climate. Summers (June to August) can be warm to hot with temperatures from 68°F to 86°F (20°C to 30°C). Winters (December to February) can be cold with temperatures from 23°F to 37°F (-5°C to 3°C).

6

Tipping is customary in Vienna. It's common to round up the bill in restaurants or to tip taxi drivers around 10%.

7

Public transportation in Vienna is excellent. The city has a comprehensive network of trains, trams, and buses.

8

Vienna is known for its coffee culture. Be sure to try a traditional Viennese coffee in one of the city's many coffee houses.

9

Vienna is a very safe city, but like any major city, it's always important to stay aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings.

10

If you're planning to visit museums, consider getting a Vienna Card which offers unlimited travel on public transport and discounts at many attractions.

11

Vienna is a very walkable city with many pedestrian zones in the city center.

12

The city is also very bike-friendly with numerous bike paths and bike rental services.

13

Vienna is known for its music scene, particularly classical music. Consider attending a concert or opera performance.

14

Smoking is banned in all enclosed public spaces, including bars and restaurants.

15

Vienna has a vibrant nightlife with many bars, clubs, and late-night eateries.

16

The city is known for its pastries. Don't miss trying a traditional Sachertorte or Apfelstrudel.

17

Vienna has a large number of parks and green spaces. The Prater and the Vienna Woods are particularly popular.

18

The city has a strong tradition of wine production. Be sure to try a glass of Viennese wine.

19

Vienna has a range of accommodation options to suit different budgets, from luxury hotels to budget hostels.

20

Most shops in Vienna are closed on Sundays, with the exception of some tourist shops and shops at train stations and airports.

Basic German to know as a first time visitor

English phrase

Native phrase

Pronunciation

When to use it

Hello

Hallo

ha-lo

Greeting someone

Goodbye

Auf Wiedersehen

owf vee-der-zayn

Leaving or saying goodbye

Please

Bitte

bit-te

Making a request

Thank you

Danke

dahn-ke

Showing appreciation

Yes

Ja

ya

Agreeing or confirming

No

Nein

nine

Disagreeing or denying

Excuse me

Entschuldigung

ent-shool-dee-goong

Getting attention or apologizing

I don't understand

Ich verstehe nicht

ish ver-stay-he nickt

When you don't understand something

Do you speak English?

Sprechen Sie Englisch?

shprek-en zee eng-lish

Asking if someone speaks English

I'm lost

Ich habe mich verlaufen

ish ha-be mish ver-low-fen

When you are lost

Where is the bathroom?

Wo ist die Toilette?

vo ist dee toy-let-te

Asking for the bathroom

Help

Hilfe

hil-fe

When you need assistance

Call the police

Rufen Sie die Polizei

roof-en zee dee po-lee-tzai

In case of an emergency

I need a doctor

Ich brauche einen Arzt

ish brow-he i-nen artst

When you need medical assistance

Can I use my credit card?

Kann ich meine Kreditkarte verwenden?

kan ish mine kredit-karte ver-ven-den

When you want to pay with credit card

How much does it cost?

Wie viel kostet das?

vee feel kos-tet das

Asking for the price

Open

Offen

of-fen

When you want to know if a place is open

Closed

Geschlossen

ge-shlos-sen

When you want to know if a place is closed

I would like to order

Ich möchte bestellen

ish moch-te bestel-len

When you want to order something

Cheers

Prost

prost

When you are toasting with drinks

Packing List

  • Clothing

  • Underwear (5 pairs)

  • Socks (5 pairs)

  • T-shirts (5)

  • Jeans or trousers (2 pairs)

  • Comfortable walking shoes

  • Sweater or jacket

  • Pajamas

  • Swimwear (if planning to swim)

  • Formal outfit (for fancy dinners or events)

  • Scarf, gloves and hat (if traveling in winter)

  • Toiletries

  • Toothbrush and toothpaste

  • Shampoo and conditioner

  • Body wash or soap

  • Deodorant

  • Razor and shaving cream

  • Makeup and makeup remover

  • Sunscreen

  • Hand sanitizer

  • Prescription medications

  • First aid kit

  • Travel documents and essentials

  • Passport

  • Driver's license or ID card

  • Credit and debit cards

  • Cash in local currency

  • Travel insurance documents

  • Hotel and transportation reservation confirmations

  • Emergency contacts and addresses

  • Map of Vienna

  • Electronics and gadgets

  • Smartphone

  • Charger for smartphone

  • Universal power adapter

  • Headphones

  • Camera

  • Charger for camera

  • Laptop and charger (if needed)

  • Portable power bank

  • Miscellaneous items

  • Travel pillow

  • Eye mask and ear plugs

  • Snacks

  • Reusable water bottle

  • Books or e-books for entertainment

  • Travel guide for Vienna

  • Umbrella

  • Laundry bag

  • Zip-lock bags for toiletries

Weather Conditions

Vienna, Austria, is a city that experiences a full range of seasons, so it's essential to pack accordingly based on the time of your visit. During the winter months (December to February), Vienna can be quite cold, with temperatures often dropping to around 32°F (0°C). Snowfall is common, so pack warm clothing, including a heavy coat, scarves, gloves, and boots. Despite the cold, winter can be a magical time to visit Vienna, especially during the Christmas markets. Spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) are generally mild, with temperatures ranging from 50°F to 70°F (10°C to 21°C). These seasons are perfect for sightseeing, as the weather is comfortable. Pack layers, as mornings and evenings can be cooler. Summer (June to August) in Vienna can be quite warm, with temperatures often reaching up to 80°F (27°C). It's a great time to explore the city's parks and outdoor attractions. Pack light clothing, but also include a light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings. Regardless of the season, it's always a good idea to pack an umbrella or raincoat, as Vienna can experience rain throughout the year. Also, don't forget to check the weather forecast before your trip to make any necessary adjustments to your packing list. Remember, weather can be unpredictable, so it's always best to be prepared for a variety of conditions. Enjoy your trip to Vienna!

MonthHi / Lo (°C)Weather Overview

January

4° / -3°

January is the coldest month in Vienna, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. Snowfall is common, so pack warm clothing and enjoy the winter wonderland.

February

6° / -2°

February is still cold with occasional snowfall. The city's architecture looks beautiful under a dusting of snow, making it a picturesque time to visit.

March

11° / 1°

March sees the start of spring with temperatures gradually rising. It's a good time to visit if you prefer less crowded tourist spots.

April

16° / 5°

April is a pleasant month with mild temperatures. The city's parks and gardens start to bloom, offering beautiful landscapes.

May

21° / 9°

May brings warm temperatures and the city comes alive with outdoor activities. It's a great time to explore Vienna's outdoor attractions.

June

25° / 13°

June marks the start of summer with long, sunny days. It's the perfect time for sightseeing and enjoying Vienna's vibrant café culture.

July

27° / 15°

July is the hottest month in Vienna. It's a great time to visit if you enjoy hot weather, just remember to stay hydrated.

August

27° / 15°

August is equally hot as July with plenty of sunshine. It's a great time to enjoy outdoor concerts and festivals.

September

21° / 11°

September sees the start of autumn with mild temperatures. The city's parks and gardens are beautifully colored, making it a picturesque time to visit.

October

16° / 6°

October is a cool month with the leaves changing color. It's a good time to visit museums and indoor attractions.

November

10° / 2°

November is a chilly month with shorter days. It's a good time to explore Vienna's historic sites and Christmas markets.

December

5° / -1°

December is a cold month with occasional snowfall. The city is beautifully lit up for Christmas, making it a magical time to visit.

Did you know?

Did you know that Vienna is known as the 'City of Music' due to its rich musical heritage, with famous composers like Mozart, Beethoven, and Strauss having lived there?

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