Why is Vienna at Christmas so magical?
There is a very special romantic atmosphere during Christmas in Vienna. The imperial backdrop with Vienna’s historical architecture gives a warm and cozy atmosphere. When strolling through the city, especially when it is snowing, it is a place where the season feels truly timeless. By the way, there are a lot of things to do in Vienna in December. Even though the Christkindl markets are magical, they are just one part of Vienna’s rich and varied holiday experience.
Viennese Christmas traditions
Christmas traditions are deeply rooted in Austrian culture and unfold with quiet elegance throughout the Advent season in Vienna. By the first Sunday of Advent at the latest, homes and hotel lobbies glow with candles on the Advent wreath (Adventkranz), while children count down the days with a charming Advent calendar filled with tiny surprises or handpicked chocolates. Carol singing in churches and squares sets the festive tone as Vienna holiday season events begin. A beloved tradition of many families starts: baking vanilla cookies and gingerbread, sometimes even crafting small decorative houses out of it. On Christmas Eve, families gather for a festive meal, exchange gifts and attend Midnight Mass in one of Vienna’s historic churches. These heartfelt traditions continue into the New Year, with lucky charms also known as “Glücksbringer” and the joyful event called “Silvesterpfad” in the city. On 1st of January, the elegant Vienna Philharmonic Concert marks the year’s beginning in true Viennese style (live or on TV, it is absolutely worth watching it!).
Highlights and activities beyond the Christmas markets
While the Wiener Christkindlmarkt (Christmas markets) at Rathausplatz, Karlsplatz and Schönbrunn rank among the city’s most beloved seasonal experiences (read the Sacher Guide to Vienna’ Christmas Markets), there are much more things to see in Vienna during winter. From beautifully decorated palaces to classical concerts, the city offers countless festive highlights. Warm up in a traditional Viennese coffeehouse or embrace “Wiener Gemütlichkeit”, which is the Viennese art of slowing down. Whether with a slice of the Original Sacher-Torte and coffee or a glass of champagne, these quiet and elegant moments are what make Vienna in winter so special.
Christmas lights and magical decorations
Vienna sparkles during the holidays with festive decorations across the city. Admire the iconic chandeliers above the Graben, stroll along the festive Kärntner Straße, and do not miss the charming nutcrackers in front of Hotel Sacher Vienna. It is a must-stop photo spot during the Christmas season.
Shopping tips
A shopping stroll is part of any true city experience and the prime location of Hotel Sacher places you right next to Vienna’s most exclusive stores. Vienna Christmas shopping offers a charming mix of tradition and luxury. From the already mentioned Graben to Kärntner Straße and Tuchlauben, there are many elegant boutiques with festive displays. For a special gift make sure you visit the Sacher Confiserie, where you can find beautiful Christmas souvenirs, and finest chocolate products. At the Christmas markets, do not forget to collect this year’s limited edition festive mug as a charming keepsake of the season. For something truly unique, visit the Augarten porcelain manufactory, where Austrian craftsmanship meets timeless Viennese design. Especially during Christmas, you will find beautifully crafted seasonal pieces that make for elegant and lasting gifts.
Imperial palaces and museums
Vienna’s majestic palaces are especially atmospheric in winter. Visit Schönbrunn Palace, the former summer residence of Empress Sisi and do not miss the Gloriette for panoramic city views. A family tip: the Schönbrunn Zoo is open year-round and beautifully quiet in winter. Other highlights in the city include the Belvedere Palace with Klimt’s The Kiss, the Hofburg Palace and art exhibitions at the museums Albertina or Heidi Horten Collection.
Winter walks and ice skating
In winter, Vienna invites you to slow down and savor the season, whether you are enjoying a peaceful walk or gliding across the ice. Following are some nice romantic and sporty activities for couples as well as families.
Winter walks through Vienna’s most beautiful parks
- Volksgarten
Located on the Burgring in the 1st district, this rose-filled park transforms into a peaceful winter oasis with views of the Parliament and the Hofburg. - Burggarten
Nestled beside the Ringstrasse, this compact but elegant park is perfect for a short stroll and right next to the Albertina and the State Opera. - Stadtpark
Vienna’s oldest public park (opened in 1862), known for its river views and the famous golden Johann Strauss monument. - Augarten
It is the oldest Baroque Garden in Vienna: peaceful, symmetrical and steeped in imperial history. - Schönbrunn Palace Gardens
Enter through the Hietzinger
Vienna ice skating
Wiener Eistraum (Ice Dream)
• Location: Rathausplatz, 1010 Vienna
• 10,000 m² skating area under magical lights
• Season: Mid January – Beginning of March
• Opening hours: Daily 10:00–22:00
• More info: wien.info
Wiener Eislaufverein
• Address: Lothringerstraße 22, 1030 Vienna
• 6,000 m² of ice
• Open from November
• Opening hours: Mon–Thu, Sat, Sun and Holidays: 9:00–20:00; Fri: 9:00–21:00
• More info: wev1867.at
Music and cultural experiences
Have you already experienced the magic of classical music in Vienna? Especially during the Christmas holiday season, it is a refined cultural highlight. Here are some suggestions for great concerts:
• Advent concerts at the famous St. Stephen’s Cathedral
• Opera performances at the Vienna State Opera
• The world-renowned Vienna Philharmonic New Year’s Concert at the Musikverein
Must-try festive drinks and food
While strolling around through the city, you will smell mulled wine (Glühwein), punch and roasted chestnuts quite often. Make sure, that you try some Raclette at a Christmas market and our typical Austrian dish the Kaiserschmarrn (fluffy shredder pancake).
Austrian Christmas dining traditions
In Austria, traditionally fish dishes such as carp or sea bass are served on Christmas Eve in many Austrian households. On 25 and 26 December, meals become more festive and indulgent, often serving roast duck or goose with red cabbage and dumplings, Tafelspitz or braised beef with root vegetables, or rich game dishes. Of course, no holiday meal is complete without Austrian desserts. Tip: end the evening with a piece of Original Sacher-Torte. It can even be ordered in the Sacher online shop or directly in our Sacher shop on site.
Christmas Eve and New Year’s in Vienna
From quiet family traditions on Vienna Christmas Eve to the sparkling celebrations of New Year’s Eve 2025, Vienna transforms into a place of wonder, warmth and elegance. At Hotel Sacher guests enjoy festive menus, decorated rooms and suites and thoughtful touches that make the holidays unique. Whether you are celebrating as a couple or enjoying Christmas time as family in Vienna. Discover more about the season’s highlights on or website, where you can find unique offers to celebrate Christmas and New Year’s Eve at Hotel Sacher in Vienna.
Christmas Eve traditions
Christmas Eve in Vienna is full of quiet elegance and heartfelt traditions. In keeping with long-standing Austrian holiday customs, families gather on 24 December to exchange gifts, sing carols and share dinner by the Christmas tree. Many end the evening with Christmas Mass at St. Stephen’s Cathedral, surrounded by candlelight and music. At Hotel Sacher, guests can enjoy the same warmth with festive menus, in-room Christmas trees on request and the refined comfort of a Family Suite. Across the city, Vienna glows with soft lights, peaceful streets and the unmistakable spirit of Christmas.
New Year’s Eve in Vienna
On New Year’s Eve 2025, Vienna transforms into a stage of celebration. The famous “Silvesterpfad” leads through the historic city centre from 2 pm to 2 am, with live music, dancing, punch and culinary delights. From waltzing on the Graben to DJ sets and open-air entertainment, it promises an unforgettable night! Fireworks are only permitted outside of the center, but you will still feel the atmosphere of it. Meanwhile, the Vienna State Opera performs Die Fledermaus by Johann Strauss and on New Year’s Day, the iconic Vienna Philharmonic Concert is broadcast live at Stephansplatz and many hotels. At Hotel Sacher, guests can enjoy an exclusive New Year’s Eve Dinner in Viennese style.
The Sacher insider tips
For those looking to experience the true elegance and cultural richness of Vienna during the festive season, our concierge has handpicked a selection of seasonal highlights inspired by Viennese Christmas traditions. From classical concerts in historic churches to unique local experiences, these recommendations capture the spirit of the city at its most magical. Discover more in our Sacher Event Calendar.
Concierge recommendations
Advent concerts in iconic venues
• St. Stephen’s Cathedral: Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays at 8:30 pm from November until 23 December
• Minoritenkirche: Classical concerts featuring Bach, Vivaldi and Haydn; Daily at 8:00 pm from late November to 23 December
• Konzerthaus: Christmas Oratorio by Bach with the Vienna Symphony Orchestra on 14, 15 and 16 December
• ORF Symphony Orchestra: Christmas concert on 19 December at 7:30 pm
• MuTh – Vienna Boys’ Choir: The Good Shepherd from 7 to 10 December
Special seasonal experiences
• Original Vienna Snow Globe Factory: Discover something truly special – hand-crafted snow globes at this charming traditional manufactory
• Private Christmas Lights Tour: Enjoy a privately guided walk through Vienna’s beautifully illuminated city center
• Riding Dinner – Sacher Edition: A festive culinary experience served in a horse-drawn carriage as a romantic highlight
Festive spirit at Hotel Sacher
At Hotel Sacher Vienna, the magic of the Christmas season begins in early November, when the hotel transforms into a festive wonderland. A grand Christmas tree in the lobby, sparkling lights and two charming nutcrackers at the entrance welcome guests into a world of timeless elegance. Guests can enjoy seasonal dining experiences, from traditional Austrian Christmas Eve dinners to indulgent desserts like the Original Sacher-Torte. Whether you are attending a concert, exploring the decorated city, or simply relaxing in the lounge with a nice drink, the holiday spirit at Hotel Sacher is truly unforgettable.
Is Vienna worth visiting at Christmas?
Absolutely! Vienna is just magical during Christmas and a must-visit, especially due to the famous Christmas markets, delicious food and historic culture.
Are things open in Vienna on Christmas?
On public holidays, most of the shops are closed in Vienna. But most of the shops are open in the morning of 24 December as well as the entire day of 31 January. Shops and museums may close early or remain closed on 8 December, 24–26 December and 1 January, except for some souvenir shops. It is best to check opening hours in advance.
How many days do you need in Vienna at Christmas?
Make sure that you spend at least 3-4 days in Vienna during Christmas. There is a lot to see, hence you will need the time to take it all in.
How expensive is Vienna during Christmas?
Some costs such as hotel rooms might be a bit higher due to high demand. However, the prices in restaurants and cultural events are the same all through the year and there are a lot of free things to do.
