Introduction
Vienna, the capital of Austria, is a city that embodies Christmas spirit in every sense. As the snowflakes gently fall onto the cobblestone streets, the city transforms into a winter wonderland, filled with festive markets, concerts, and traditional food. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or a fun-filled family vacation, Vienna is an ideal destination to celebrate Christmas.
What to Do: Christmas Markets, Events, and Activities
1. Visit Vienna’s Christmas Markets
The atmosphere of Vienna during Christmas is truly spectacular. The main streets of shopping, commercial activities, and public spaces are adorned with sparkling lights. Be prepared to immerse yourself in an incredible mix of scents, including scented candles and delicious food specialties.
Some of the most important Christmas markets to visit:
- Christmas Village Palazzo Belvedere: located at Belvedere Palace, Prinz Eugen-Straße – accessible by tram (line D)
- Maria Theresien Square Christmas Market: located in Maria Theresien Platz – accessible by tram (line D)
- Christkindlmarkt: located at Rathausplatz – accessible by tram (1, 71, and D lines) or metro (U3 station Volkstheater and U2 station Rathaus)
- Spittelberg
- Schönbrunn Christmas Market
2. Christmas Concert at the Kursalon
The Kursalon in Vienna is an exceptional location to celebrate Christmas in style, surrounded by aristocratic atmosphere and high-class entertainment.
Concerto di Natale al Kursalon €80.00
3. Christmas Concert at St. Peter’s Church and Visit the Presepi
The Classic Ensemble of Vienna performs classic concerts in this beautiful church, which is especially magical during Advent.
Concerto di Natale e Capodanno a San Pietro
4. Admire Vienna’s Christmas Lights
Vienna’s Christmas lights are truly enchanting. Visit popular spots like the Palazzo del Belvedere, Wiener Staatsoper, Cattedrale di Santo Stefano, Graben, Kohlmarkt, and Hofburg Palace.
5. Christmas Concert at the Wiener Konzerthaus
The Wiener Konzerthaus (Vienna Concert House) is a stunning venue for any concert, but especially special during Christmas. Each December, world-renowned opera singers perform in this beautiful hall.
Concerto di Natale alla Wiener Koncerthaus
6. Ice Skating at the Vienna Ice World
The Vienna Ice World offers ice skating rinks throughout the city. One of the most spectacular is located in front of the Rathaus.
Pattinare al Vienna Ice World
7. Listen to the Vienna Boys’ Choir
The Vienna Boys’ Choir is one of the oldest and most famous boys’ choirs in the world. They perform a Christmas Mass at the Wiener Hofburgkapelle (Imperial Palace) on December 25th.
Ascoltare il coro de “I piccoli cantori di Vienna”
What to Eat: Traditional Christmas Food
Traditional Viennese Christmas food includes roasted carp, meat dishes, and sweet treats like Lebkuchen, Stollen, Weihnachtskekse, and Spekulatius. Don’t forget to try some hot mulled wine.
Some recommended restaurants:
- Plachutta (Plachutta Wollzeile)
- The Bank Brasserie & Bar
- Huth da Moritz Buoni
- Sinohouse
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Getting Around
The best way to get around Vienna is by public transportation. The city has an efficient network of metro, bus, and tram lines. You can also use the Vienna Card for unlimited rides and discounts on museum entrance fees.
Clima and Useful Information
December weather in Vienna is very cold and snowy. Temperatures range from -4°C to 7°C (25°F). For more information, see When to Visit Vienna.
How to Get to Vienna:
- Flughafen Wien (Vienna Airport)
- Trains (S-Bahn, Railjet, or CAT trains) or buses
Getting Around the City:
- Walking is a great way to explore the city center
- The efficient public transportation system includes metro, bus, and tram lines
- Use the Vienna Card for unlimited rides and discounts on museum entrance fees.
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Conclusion
Christmas in Vienna is a holiday experience that will leave you with cherished memories. From festive markets to traditional food, concerts, and ice skating, the city has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for romance, adventure, or simply a taste of the season, Vienna is an ideal destination to celebrate Christmas.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are the best Christmas markets in Vienna?
A: Some of the most popular Christmas markets include Christmas Village Palazzo Belvedere, Maria Theresien Square Christmas Market, Christkindlmarkt, Spittelberg, and Schönbrunn Christmas Market.
Q: How do I get to the Kursalon for the Christmas concert?
A: The Kursalon is located at Prater Park, 1020 Vienna. You can take tram line D or bus number 38 from various parts of the city.
Q: What traditional food should I try during my visit to Vienna?
A: Some recommended dishes include roasted carp, meat dishes, Lebkuchen, Stollen, Weihnachtskekse, and Spekulatius.
Q: Is public transportation available in Vienna?
A: Yes, Vienna has an efficient network of metro, bus, and tram lines. You can use the Vienna Card for unlimited rides and discounts on museum entrance fees.
Q: What is the weather like in December in Vienna?
A: December weather in Vienna is very cold and snowy, with temperatures ranging from -4°C to 7°C (25°F).
Q: How do I get to Flughafen Wien (Vienna Airport)?
A: You can take a taxi or public transportation (S-Bahn, Railjet, or CAT trains) from the airport to various parts of the city.
Q: Can I use my credit card in Vienna?
A: Yes, most shops and restaurants accept major credit cards like Visa, Mastercard, and American Express.
Q: What are the opening hours for Christmas markets?
A: The opening hours for Christmas markets vary depending on the market. It’s best to check the official website of each market before visiting.
Q: Can I buy tickets online for concerts and events?
A: Yes, most concert venues in Vienna sell tickets online through their official websites or ticketing platforms like Ticketmaster.
