Visiting Vienna
Vienna is a beautiful city steeped in history and culture. Its imposing architecture - particularly the impressive palaces - will take you back to the days of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, while its rich musical history is evident in the many festivals and the stunning Opera House. Wander around the city on foot so that you can reward yourself with a slice of delicious sachertorte: Vienna is the home of this decadent chocolate cake, so it would be rude not to!
When is the best time to visit Vienna?
Summer is the main high season in Vienna, when the weather is warm and there is a lot going on - there are many festivals and concerts, as well as lots of great cafes and restaurants where you can sit outside and enjoy the lovely weather. Flights and accommodation will be at their highest though, so unless you're aiming for a particular event or festival, we'd recommend aiming for spring or autumn: the weather will be milder, but so too will the impact on your pocket!
Christmas in Vienna is absolutely magical, and if you're considering a trip to a Christmas market, then look no further. There are numerous Christmas markets in Vienna each year, some set against spectacular backdrops such as City Hall and the Belvedere Palace. Grab a warming cup of Glüwein (mulled wine) and eat your way through the many culinary delights on offer or simply wander around and peruse the traditional gifts and handicrafts, often to the sound of a choir singing traditional carols nearby.
If Christmas markets aren't your bag but you don't mind the cold, then the cheapest time to visit Vienna is mid-January through to March. During these winter months, you'll get the smallest queues and the best availability. Beware though that some attractions may have seasonal openings (especially the gardens at some of the imperial palaces) so check before you book to avoid disappointment.
The best time to visit Vienna for....
Schönbrunn Palace
The Schönbrunn Palace was the main summer residence of Austria's Habsburg rulers and is one of Vienna's most popular attractions. Boasting 1,441 rooms, vast gardens and the world's oldest zoo, the Palace is a must-see. Although the Palace is open year-round, the Privy Garden, Orangery Garden and Maze are open seasonally, between mid-March to early November, and the beautiful grounds are best enjoyed in milder weather. There isn't much shade in the gardens so if you're going in the hotter months, don't forget your hat and sunscreen!
Schönbrunn Palace is likely to be busy whenever you visit, but especially so on holidays and weekends. We definitely recommend booking your tickets in advance, with a specified entry time.
Sightseeing
Late spring to the end of September is broadly when you'll get the best weather for sightseeing, and any seasonal sights will be open at this time. July and August can get very hot and will be busiest (and ironically tend to have more rain than either May or September!) so we would recommend going either before or after so that you can take advantage of temperate weather, less chance of rain, and shorter queues.
Shopping
The Christmas markets are brilliant for gift shopping and finding unique or traditional items. Open from mid-November, some of them even turn into New Year markets at the end of the season. If it's bargains you're after, then New Year is the best time to go, when the post-Christmas sales get going around the city.
The Riesenrad at Prater
The 'Giant Ferris Wheel' at the Prater amusement park is the one of the oldest in the world and has amazing views over the city. It's open year-round, but to get the most out of it we would recommend going in the warmer months when it's likely to be brighter and clearer.
Best time to visit Vienna based on the weather by season
Summer
Although summer in Vienna is the hottest time of the year, it also has the highest average rainful, so don't forget your umbrella! Rain is spread fairly evenly throughout the year in Vienna so it's advisable to be prepared in any case. The summer days are lovely and long, and with average highs in the mid 20s Celsius, the summer months are perfect for walking around town or eating al fresco. Average lows are in the mid teens though so it's advisable to take a light layer for the evenings.
Autumn
As always, Autumn brings a huge transition. September is still fairly warm with a little less rain than July and August, making it a great month to visit Vienna to avoid the worst of the crowds. By October, though, temperatures drop markedly, with average highs only in the low teens - though you're less likely to get rain. November brings higher rainfall and even lower temperatures, but towards the end of the month the Christmas markets start setting up, so despite the weather, the city is lit up and full of cheer! With average highs of only 9°C and average lows near freezing, you'll want to wrap up!
Winter
This is absolutely our pick as the best time to visit Vienna! Vienna has dry, cold winters - you won't get as much rain but you'll definitely feel the biting cold! Any precipitation is likely to be in the form of snow, which just adds to the magic if you're visiting for the Christmas markets. January is the driest month of the year but comes with the year's lowest average temperatures, with average highs only at freezing! There is still plenty of light to see the sights, so if you're not scared of the cold, get yourself some good winter wear in the sales and get going - there are plenty of cafes to get a coffee to keep warm - and since many of the Christmas markets continue on as New Year markets, a cheeky glühwein will keep you going later in the day! February is slightly warmer than January, but also a little wetter - average highs are above freezing, but lows are still below freezing so you're still likely to see snow.
Spring
As with autumn, spring is a transition season, with early March still feeling quite wintery. Spring is well on its way by April, with average highs back in the teens, though average lows are still in single digits. Since rainfall is fairly even across the months, there is always the chance of rain, but by May, the temperatures are creeping into the 20s Celsius and it definitely feels as though summer is on the way. With longer days, warmer temperatures and lighter crowds, we'd say May is a great time to visit Vienna.
When deciding when is the best time to visit Vienna you should consider the peaks of summer and winter weather!
Vienna Events and Festivals
Vienna in January
- New Year’s Concert – a long-standing and much-loved tradition, every year the Vienna Philharmonic kicks off the New Year with a lively repertoire of nostalgia from the family of Johann Strauss and their contemporaries. The concert is broadcast worldwide but it's so popular that tickets are allocated by ballot in February each year, so plan early! If you are in the city in January in the middle of a peak wintery month then it is certainly an option for the best time to visit Vienna due to all the cool events like this!
- Sales Shopping- if shopping is your bag, then you'll get the best bargains in the January sales. Beware that both New Year's Day and Epiphany on 6th January are bank holidays, so shops will be closed on these days.
- Coffee Festival – Vienna has always been known for its coffee house culture, and this three-day festival celebrates this tradition while adding the latest in trends and innovation. With tastings, demos, the Austrian barista championship, as well as coffee-based cocktails and live music and DJs, this is more than just a way of getting your caffeine fix!
Vienna in February
- Vienna Ice World- this huge outdoor ice rink is set against the stunning backdrop of the town hall (Rathaus) and is open from late January through to early March. Hire some skates, and explore the trails through the park. There are lots of food and drink options, as well as music for all tastes.
- Valentine’s Day – Vienna is a fantastic destination for a romantic Valentine's getaway. There are a host of options to impress that special someone: a boat cruise along the Danube, a candlelit dinner on the Riesenrad Ferris wheel, or if you're feeling really lavish, an overnight stay at the incredible Schönbrunn Palace Suites, overlooking the Crown Prince Garden and the Neptune Fountain. Our ranking of the best hotels in Vienna will help you to choose somewhere awesome to stay.
- The Opera Ball – Part of the Vienna Ball Season that sees over 450 balls taking place across the city from November onwards, the Opera Ball is the highlight of the season. The State Opera House turns into the world's most famous ballroom, and over 5,000 guests enjoy live performances from the procession of ballroom dancers as well as the State Opera - followed of course by much waltzing! Attended by celebrities across the globe and broadcast live internationally, tickets sell out months in advance so make sure to plan early.
Vienna in March
- Vienna Accordion Festival – starting in mid February and running through to mid March, the sound of accordions can be heard all over Vienna during the Accordion Festival. Held in 15 different locations around the city, there are classic, folk and event tango concerts.
- St. Patrick’s Day –St. Patrick's Day is not just celebrated in Vienna; the parade has become a part of the Viennese cultural calendar. Starting at the Schottenstift monastery which was founded by Irish monks in in the 12th century, this colourful parade makes its way through the city - some of whose landmarks, such as the Burgtheater and the Riesenrad, are lit up in green to celebrate. Pubs and bars join in the party of course, with Irish music, food and dancing.
Vienna in April
- Vienna City Marathon – 9,000 runners descend on the streets of Vienna in early April every year, with thousands gathering to watch. Entry opens months in advance and costs are tiered so make sure to submit your registration early if you're planning a marathon trip to Vienna!
- Easter Weekend – Easter is a lovely time to visit Vienna, with lots of events around the city, including the annual 'Spring in Vienna' concert from the Vienna Symphonic Orchestra. There are also some great Easter markets around the city and many are on for a couple of weeks; we recommend the market at Schönbrunn Palace, where you'll see beautifully decorated eggs, traditional arts and crafts and activities for kids.
- Styrian Spring Festival – This celebration of Styrian tradition includes the Styria Village at the Rathaus, with Styrian dances, basket-weaving, foods and cookery lessons among the things on offer. Expect to see many a lederhosen and dirndl!
Vienna in May
- Prater Park May Day Festival – Every year, the Prater Park amusement park hosts a May Day festival, with a varied programme of live music ending with a big fireworks display. Expect big crowds and a festive atmosphere!
- Vienna Festival (Wiener Festwochen) – 'A place for imagination and dissent' is the idea behind this five-week cultural festival, which includes theatre, music, cinema, art installations, talks, workshops, parties and more. Started in the 1950s as a response to the isolationism of Austro-fascism and Nazism, the festival's mission was to reconnect with the world, promote life, openness and the idea of a future.
- Genuss-Festival Food Fair – If, like us, you're a fan of Austrian food, then head to Stadtpark for the biggest food festival in the country. Held over three days in May, the festival brings together nearly 200 to showcase the best in local specialities. Chefs from all over the country serve delicious regional foods and you can buy everything from wine and beer to breads, honey, sausages, cured meats and pasta. Stroll through the park, enjoy the music, watch the demonstrations and sample many of the wares on offer. It's also a great place for gifts and souvenirs, so we'll have some Schnapps, thanks!
- Long Night of Churches – If you're in Vienna on the Long Night of Churches then you'll hear the church bells ring at just before 6pm to kick off this night of activities. Churches from all denominations take part in this celebration, which sees 150,000 people enjoying events ranging from jazz concerts and classical recitals to readings and even rooftop tours.
Vienna in June
- The Wienissimo Culinary Festival – The stunning Augarten Castle is the backdrop for this Festival of Good Taste. A 65m-long table seating 200 people is set up and beautifully decorated, and you can queue at the food booths until a seat becomes available for the gourmet meal, with proceeds going to a local children's charity. The second day of the festival is dedicated to children and families, with interactive stations, workshops and games.
- International Music Festival- starting in mid May and running through to the end of June, the Vienna Konzerthaus hosts this diverse musical festival featuring artists from all over the world. The festival includes everything from classical and chamber music to jazz and contemporary, as well as sound installations, literature and film events.
- Danube Island Festival – nearly 3 million visitors flock to this free open-air music festival each year, which hosts 1,500 performers, 13 stages and 17 themed islands to suit all ages and tastes. There are performances from global musicians and bands - previous performers include Scorpions, The Tiger Lillies and Simple Minds - and plenty of activities, sports and challenges for kids and adults alike.
Vienna in July
- Summer Stage – open from May to August, July is a great time to head to the Danube Canal, where stalls and stages are set up with bars, restaurants, concerts, cooking lessons, exhibitions, readings and much more.
- ImPulsTanz Vienna International Dance Festival Taking place from mid-July to mid-August, this festival brings together more than 140 world-renowned teachers and choreographers to teach workshops to all level of dancers, from beginners through to professionals. There is a wide programme of disciplines - from contemporary dance, to yoga, Butoh and Dance for People with and without Disabilities - and every night the festival lounge becomes a party where everyone comes together to dance to live music and DJs. If you're a spectator rather than a participant, you can enjoy one of the 100 performances that take place in venues around the city - including at the Vienna State Opera and the Burgtheater.
Vienna in August
- Neustift Kirtag Festival – For four days each year in mid-August, August 16-19 in 2019, this festival takes place in the outskirts of town, when a winery village transforms into an authentic Austrian party. Local wines, traditional fare, dirndl dresses, lederhosen, and brass music are all enjoyed.
- Assumption Day – A public religious holiday celebrated on August 15. Expect many shops to be closed, although most restaurants and tourist attractions will be open.
- Kammermusikfestival – This chamber music festival enjoys an especially atmospheric setting at Vienna’s beautiful moated castle, Schloss Laudon, annually in late August. In 2019, it will take place from August 26 through September 1. It includes a rich selection of romantic and classical chamber works along with music from Beethoven Mozart and other greats.
Vienna in September
- Fashion Week – Expect the usual glitz and glamour, with both established designers and newcomers featuring in this sartorial celebration. As well as the show itself, which takes place in a marquee in front of the MuseumsQuartier, there are a lot of fashion parties and pop-up stores around the city.
- Wiener Wiesn-Fest – starting at the end of September, this traditional Viennese festival takes place in the Prater and runs into mid October. Against the backdrop of the Giant Ferris Wheel, there is a programme of music, beer and food, with different provinces represented on different days. There is free entry and entertainment during the day, with ticketed concerts on the Wednesday-Sunday evenings.
Vienna in October
- Viennale International Film Festival – The biggest film event in Austria, the Viennale is also one of the oldest and biggest in the German-speaking world. Held across various cinemas in the city centre, the festival showcases both Austrian and international films and often has international premieres in its programme.
- Halloween – if you're spending Halloween in Vienna, then we recommend heading to the Prater amusement park, which is taken over by the living dead, with special Halloween attractions such as a ghost train, make-up stations and a parade. Dressing up is optional but encouraged!
Vienna in November
- Wien Modern Festival – Based around a different theme each year - such as 'growth' and 'security' - this month-long contemporary music festival consists of concerts in numerous venues around the city. The Festival is very distinguished and features many premieres each year, as well as performances from internationally renowned artists and the Vienna Symphony Orchestra.
- Vienna Christmas Markets – Vienna's wonderful Christmas markets start setting up in mid November and continue through to the New Year. There are many stalls around the city, some set against stunning backdrops such as the town hall (Rathaus). Grab a warming mulled glüwein, snack on some roasted chestnuts or cinnamon pretzels and wander the many stalls selling festive crafts, gifts and festive wares.
Vienna in December
- Musical Advent – Vienna is magical at Christmas. As you might expect for a city renowned for its rich classical music heritage, Vienna at this time is full of concerts and choral performances. Many of the events take place around the Christmas markets, adding to the fairy tale vibe. Over 80 choirs from around the world come to the Vienna City Hall for free International Advent concerts every Sunday in the run-up to Christmas, and the Vienna Konzerthaus hosts the traditional Christmas Gala.
- New Year’s Eve – New Year's Eve is an organised affair in Vienna, when the city puts on the 'New Year's Eve Trail' - a series of festive areas across the city, each with a stage and a different musical genre. For a truly Austrian experience, head to the Graben near St. Stephen's Cathedral, where the Viennese ballroom dancing schools offer free waltz lessons - get there earlier in the evening so that you can head to the Rathaus for midnight, where there is a big communal waltz to practice your new skills, as well as a fireworks display to ring in the new year.
Vienna Travel Guides