visit austria in february

Austria in February – Weather, Top 6 places to visit and Things to pack

Austria is an amazing country nestled between the rising Alps, with dream-like scenery, picture-perfect meadows and pastures, gorgeous medieval architecture, and music running through its veins.  Austria has the perfect elements to intoxicate your senses, from beautiful villages to spectacular cities, from the best operas to the most exquisite delicacies. Check this Austria’s scenic landscapes to discover and some essentials to pack during your Austria tour package in February.

Weather in Austria in February

February is probably the quietest month in Vienna, but what matters in February is fewer queues and less congestion. The cold weather in Austria lasts until February. So it’s an ideal time to travel for winter sports enthusiasts. If celebrating Valentine’s Day is at the top of your agenda, you can impress your loved ones by treating them to one of the country’s idyllic spas. Vienna is a famous romantic destination and February is a good time to settle in one of its coveted coffee houses. The average temperature in February is 4 ° C (39 ° F) and the average rainy day is 8 days.

Also Read: Austria in January – Weather, Top 6 activities to do and Festivals

Top 6 places to visit in Austria in February

The city of magnificent palaces and museums, home to opera and Beethoven, Vienna is a city of culture and splendour. A stroll through the beautiful Ringstraße, with its royal buildings like the Hofburg Royal Palace and many beautiful parks, is a great way to unleash the magic of Vienna. Vienna is one of the amazing cities in Austria and for a relaxing evening, you can enjoy a delicious coffee at the Viennese coffee house. The gorgeous Schönbrunn Palace and Belvedere Palace and the ornate St. Stephen’s Cathedral are architectural wonders and a must-see for arts and history lovers. 

Also Read: Honeymoon In Vienna: Best Things To Do And Places To Stay

2. Salzburg

One of Austria’s must-see places is Salzburg, reminiscent of a fascinating city surrounded by green meadows, magnificent historic buildings and Mozart. The birthplace of great composers and the filming location for the cult film The Sound of Music, Salzburg is at the top of Austria’s list of most popular travel destinations. The Old Town of Arsten, with its impressive Baroque buildings, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The impressive Hohensalzburg Fortress boasts is the last remaining castle in Europe. A wonderful luxury of culture, music and art, the Salzburg Festival in summer is an unforgettable experience.

Also Read: 10 Best Reasons To visit Austria

3. Innsbruck

The idyllic alpine town, surrounded by high mountains, offers many possibilities to make your stay worthwhile. You can take a stroll through the old town marvel at the glittering golden roofs of more than 2,500 glittering tiles. Then you can peek into one of Europe’s finest regional heritage museums, the Tyrolean Folklore Museum. please. Innsbruck is a travel destination for all seasons and one of Austria’s most magical places in winter. There is a world-famous ski resort that you can enjoy in the winter by booking Austria honeymoon packages . Furthermore, you can enjoy more adventurous can climb beautiful meadows, bungee jump on the European Bridge, climb the Nordquet on an exciting cable car, or explore Innsbruck’s nightlife.

4. Salzkammergut

Close to Salzburg, this scenic holiday area offers a typical Austrian experience with sparkling blue lakes, Stunning Alps, charming villages and gorgeous hot spring towns.  Lake Hallstatt is the UNESCO World Heritage-listed fairy-tale village and it is one of Austria’s most beautiful destinations. Arguably one of Austria’s most beautiful places, Hallstatt’s stunning pastel-coloured houses, the underground Salzwerten salt lake and the Dachstein ice caves will take your breath away. 

Also Read: The land of tranquility – 10 best things to see and do in Hallstatt

Graz, Austria’s second-largest city, is full of wandering souls, with different universities and one of Europe’s finest old town sections. Add numerous museums, striking Baroque and Renaissance buildings, and unique wooded hills in the heart of the town for panoramic views which is a perfect vacation spot. Graz is also attracted to many dishes. Cooking enthusiasts can take pumpkin seed oil home and add spices to their dishes at home.

6. Worthersee 

Canoeing, cave exploring, magnificent churches, and Porsche’s homeland are just a few of the reasons to visit Austria’s most popular summer attractions. The beautiful Lake Wörthersee offers swimming, boating and canoeing during the summer. Head to Griffen’s colourful stalactite caves for thrills and expeditions and also admire Guruk’s old 12th-century cathedral and visit Gumundo, the birthplace of Porsche.

Also Read: 10 Most Beautiful Lakes in Austria To Visit For a Soothing Experience

Things to pack for Austria in February

1. Austrians wear more formal and stylish clothes. So, try to be in a stylish attire!

2. Very smart casual or smart business wear goes out for business, sightseeing and eating out. 

3. Be sure you pack a light, small backpack or shoulder bag to carry all your essentials. 

4. If you are accustomed to buying bottled water, consider bringing a filtered water bottle instead. This is a great way to get clean drinking water without wasting plastic. It can be filled with any water source and can be filtered and safely drunk. 

5. To use electrical equipment, you may need a travel adapter plug and a step-down voltage transducer if the equipment is not rated for European voltage (230V). 

6. Above all, avoid Unexpected Baggage Charges-Use accurate baggage scales to stay within weight limits. Don’t forget the souvenir room on your way home!

Frequently Asked Questions about Austria in February

Consider travelling to Austria by train for a stress-free travel experience. The Austrian Federal Railway operates trains in this country. 

A typical Austrian breakfast is rich in nutrients, and the most popular Austrian foods are boiled eggs, grilled tomatoes, mushrooms, smoked bacon, sausages, beans and hash browns. 

Yes, Austria is one of the places with the lowest crime rates. Street crime is also very rare. 

 1. Vienna   2. Salzburg   3. Bad Gastein   4. Feldkirch   5. Hallstatt

Yes, Austria is a popular destination that is loved by both solo travellers and families. You can expect sheer amount of entertainment, fun, and adventures here.

There you go! These are the places you must see during your trip to Austria in February, as well as some of the essential items you should bring with you for a stress-free trip. Furthermore, we feel that this guide will aid your winter journey to Austria. Go hurry and book your customised Austria trip at Pickyourtrail for the best prices!

Shrinidhi H

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  [An * means an affiliate relationship; see footer] City guide | Search the site | Tips for May

Visiting Vienna

What to do in February

I’ll be honest. February is a quiet month in Vienna, with only a few annual events and festivals.

Think of January and take away the fun bits. Only kidding. And one thing very much in February’s favour is genuinely fewer queues and crowds.

• Book a concert experience * for February
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• January & March
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Top activities in February 2025

Those queues and crowds get even less during the so-called Semesterferien (February 3rd to 9th): a week-long break between semesters when Vienna’s schools all go on holiday.

A lot of Viennese take off with the kids for the Semesterferien (to ski, for example), leaving even more space for the rest of us.

Anyway, the usual concerts , museum offerings , tours etc., continue unabated this month. But what else might you do?

Exhibitions in February

(The Heidi Horten collection has a multisensory treat for art lovers in February)

Vienna always has numerous exhibitions on at any one time. February 2025 is some way off, but we already have news of the following…

• It looks like Lower Belvedere will bring us a special Klimt exhibition from February 21st, which takes a deeper dive into the artist’s methods
• Your last chance to see the major Chagall exhibition at the Albertina (until February 9th) and the reincarnation of lost Schiele works through the art of Adrian Ghenie (also until February 9th)
• The Heidi Horten Collection presents art that adds one or two additional sensory dimensions to the usual with their Light, Sound & Senses exhibition
• Catch the final days of the Erwin Wurm exhibition over at the Albertina Modern (until February 23rd)
• The MAK always has several exhibitions running, but notable examples in February 2025 include Peche Pop around the “enfant terrible” of the Wiener Werkstätte, a look at some of the very best of 21st-century design in Austria, and reveals current trends in fashion photography
• Talking design, the Leopold Museum dedicates an exhibition to the work and artistic collaborations of the iconic Backhausen company: makers of furniture and decorative fabrics. And they give us the last few days of a solo exhibition for Rudolf Wacker (until February 16th)
• Continue to celebrate the King of the Waltz’s 200th birthday with a Strauss exhibition at the Theatermuseum
• The Wien Museum special exhibition feels rather seasonal: a look at various aspects of Vienna in winter
• The Wien Museum MUSA takes us behind the scenes and reveals the practicalities and challenges involved with a public collection of contemporary art (until February 23rd)
• Indigenous art claims the limelight at the Weltmuseum , with works from Brazil. They also consider the historical impact of the Qur’an on European thought
• A special exhibition on writer Friederike Mayröcker reaches the last few pages of its time at the Literature Museum (until February 16th)
• In an era of cards and digital transactions, the Technisches Museum throws a light on the history, future and much more of cold hard cash

Related events

February 2025 also brings a repeat of:

• Art at the Park (public days February 21st to 23rd): a high-quality art fair held on the premises of the luxury Park Hyatt Vienna in the centre of town.
• Edelstoff (2025 dates TBA): a large design market and excellent opportunity to pick up unique items and gifts

Valentine’s Day

(Come for a kiss. Last February saw free evening entry to the Klimt rooms at Upper Belvedere with a courtesy professional photo opportunity too; press photo © Ivory Rose Photography / Belvedere, Wien)

Ah, the dance of hearts begins afresh on February 14th. But what to do with a loved one to celebrate the day in Vienna? Help is at hand with this Valentine’s Day overview .

Enter the Ice World

(The lighted rinks)

It usually starts in late January but hits its peak throughout February: the Wiener Eistraum .

The “Vienna Ice World” offers a wonderful outdoor ice skating experience right in the middle of the city, along with food and drink stalls with an organic focus that normally feature plenty of vegan & vegetarian options.

The square in front of the Rathaus turns into a split-level ice rink, with skating trails and other rinks spread among the trees of the Rathaus park. Everything lights up delightfully at night.

Oh, and don’t worry if you forgot your skates: simply hire them on site.

Popular tours & classical concerts

(The prestigious Staatsoper. February offers a better chance of getting tickets)

Given far fewer people around, February is the time for booking those activities that are often busy or oversubscribed the rest of the year.

I’m thinking here particularly of:

• Classical music concerts (especially at the top venues and those various light classical Viennese concerts * crafted specially for visitors)
• The Schönbrunn Palace tours (do the Grand Tour of the self-guided options: you get into many more rooms than the basic tours and the cost difference is quite small)
• The Spanish Riding School (book to see the morning training or a stables tour if you can’t catch a gala or want an inexpensive way to experience the stallions)
• Upper Belvedere (where you get to see Klimt’s The Kiss )
• Vienna Zoo (which has indoor enclosures like a rainforest house, if you’re worried about the weather)
• Opera tickets (particularly for the ever-popular Staatsoper. Standing tickets are excellent value but you might be able to grab some inexpensive seats, too)

Talking music, how about the 26th International Accordion Festival (February 22nd to March 16th)?

Have a ball

One of February’s claims to fame is that this is a busy month for balls. So if you’ve ever dreamed of doing the waltz in the city that invented the dance, now’s your chance.

We have the Johann Strauss Ball, for example, at the famous Kursalon , where the man himself performed. And many more, including the 67th edition of the world-famous Opernball (February 27th), though tickets and tables for the latter are not always easy to come by if you’re a mere mortal.

Catch the flowers

(The orchids on show are even more spectacular than this houseplant)

Flowers? Ah, yes, and no ordinary flowers, either. The International Orchid Show (2025 dates TBA) sets up in the Hirschstetten Botanical Gardens .

Numerous exhibitors add more than a few spots of colour to the Viennese winter. We really enjoyed the show, which includes lovely displays as well as the expected sales booths.

Catch the chocolate

Be still my beating heart.

The Chocolate Festival dropped into the Marx Halle last February, so let us hope for a repeat (2025 dates TBA). I mean, they had me at “The Chocolate.” I fully intend to report on this with a full article: not one of my toughest assignments.

(Avoid the Semesterferien if you go skiing)

Of course, you can always do as the Viennese do and flee the city for the slopes.

February is the main month for skiing in Austria, and you can reach the Semmering alpine ski resort, for example, in just over an hour, so suits a day trip .

It’s probably best not to do this in the Semesterferien week, unless you want to spend your day being abused by impatient Viennese as they push their way into the lift queue.

Think of Rome’s Colosseum, but with ski sticks instead of gladiatorial swords and you get the idea. (I’m only partly exaggerating.)

Swim or float

(One of the city’s café-confectioneries)

Not outside, I should add. Holiday treat options include:

• The Schwerelos Floating Centre , where you float in a broad open tub filled with saltwater in a relaxing ambience
• A day or two at the spa baths complex at Therme Wien . Hot water from thermal springs feeds its various pools. The Therme also offers all the usual spa treatments and a restaurant

Incidentally, Therme Wien sits right next door to an outlet of one of the city’s more renowned cake and confectionery chains: the Kurkonditorei Oberlaa . (And it has its own subway stop on the U1 that passes through the centre.)

Seasonal tip

Dress up warm.

I don’t have the stats, but I’m pretty sure February could be our coldest month. Minus temperatures are plausible.

(Kaiserschmarren shredded pancakes to chase away the cold)

That’s not all bad, of course. Snow is possible, which makes the city look even more beautiful (at least until it turns into that delightful brown slush we all know and love).

And there is a certain pleasure to be had in entering a coffee house or Konditorei and warming yourself with a hot coffee topped by whipped cream or with a classic dish like Kaiserschmarren (much beloved by Emperor Franz Joseph).

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[{ "@context": "http://schema.org/", "@type": "imageobject", "url": "/static/img/icon/recipe.png", "contenturl": "/static/img/icon/recipe.png", "caption": "favourite austrian recipes", "isfamilyfriendly": true }] favourite austrian recipes.

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The Best Times to Visit Austria, According to Locals

Cozy mountain weekends, alpine hikes, and glamorous nights out in Vienna await.

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If you’ve been dreaming of a city escape or an alpine getaway in Austria, there's no better time than the present to start planning. From hiking in the Alps and swimming in glacial lakes to skiing, waltzing, and exploring some of Europe’s most impressive architecture, the list of things to do in Austria is vast and varied. Depending on your ideal adventure, you’ll want to book your trip at the appropriate time of year. Austria's travel seasons are:

• High Season:  May through August 
• Shoulder Seasons: April to May, September to October
• Low Season:  November to March
• Ski Season:  Late November to April

Austrian winters are defined by a few things, namely ball season and ski season . “The ball season in February, which is counted as Vienna’s fifth season of the year, is one of a kind," says Tina Haselbacher, owner of Almanac Hotels . "It’s the highlight on social calendars, as everyone gathers to dance and celebrate Viennese culture.” The colder months are also the perfect time to head to the mountains for a bit of downhill skiing. “I’d save any alpine trips for the beginning of December to April, and alternate this with a city break from April to December,” says Claudia Epp, general manager of The Arula Chalets . 

Travelers looking to explore Austria’s larger cities — namely Vienna, Graz, Linz, and Salzburg  — should consider the shoulder seasons. “In the cities, May, September, and October tend to be most pleasant," says Michael Gigl, head of market U.S.A. at the Austrian Tourist Office . "Summers have become warmer in recent years (something that Vienna e.g. is actively addressing by greening the city even more)." If you’d rather come during the summer, Gigl recommends July and August for visiting Austria’s mountain and lake regions.

Keep reading to discover the best times to travel to Austria, whether you’re looking to avoid crowds, save money, or enjoy Christmas markets, Viennese balls, and après-ski activities.

Best Times to Visit Austria for Smaller Crowds

Deanna Mazzola/Travel + Leisure

The shoulder months — April, early May, September, and October — are the best times to visit Austria if you want to avoid crowds. “Our main cities, like Vienna or Salzburg, tend to be busiest during the summer season, from May through September,” says Gigl. Although, he notes, “Overcrowding is less of an issue in Vienna compared to some other cities, [which is] especially notable while museum hopping. A visit to the Kunshistorisches Museum, the Belvedere, or the Albertina is decidedly less hectic or crowded in comparison to other world-class cultural institutions.”

Best Times to Visit Austria for Good Weather

There are different types of “good weather” in Austria, and it depends on the season and your itinerary. “The winters are stunning with snow on the slopes and outdoor activities, from skiing to wandering the street markets,” says Haselbacher. Just make sure you pack the appropriate gear; temperatures in the winter tend to hover around — and a little below — freezing. The mountains will also be colder than the cities.  If you prefer warmer weather, plan your visit during June, July, or August, when temperatures can reach the mid-80s and the sun doesn’t set until after 8 p.m. Summer is great for experiencing “the outdoor pools, Prater Park in Vienna, and heading out into the mountains for hiking and biking,” Haselbacher adds. If you’re exclusively visiting Austria’s cities, Epp recommends the spring or the autumn, “when the heat is more bearable.”

Best Times to Visit Austria for Lower Prices

Hotel prices will vary depending on where and when you’re visiting Austria. “Vienna’s hotel rates can be influenced by major congresses and conventions, often in June, September, or October," says Gigl. "Salzburg room demand is highest during the Salzburg Festival season [from] late July through August.”

Outside of the larger events, Haselbacher says, “Prices tend to drop in the summer when temperatures rise, and in January when the Christmas season and festivities are over and before the ball season kicks into high gear.” Prices also reflect demand in the mountains, where “prices soar during the winter season, particularly over the festive period,” says Epp. 

Worst Times to Visit Austria

“Austria has a variety of events and experiences for all interests,” says Haselbacher, “and there really is no bad time to visit.” You may, however, want to avoid the height of summer, particularly if you prefer air conditioning, which is not as common in Europe as it is in the United States.

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When is the best time to visit Austria?

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The best time to visit Austria for outdoor activities like hiking and boating is during their summer, between June and August. There are more crowds than in other seasons, but these are less overwhelming than those you’ll find in destinations like France or Italy.

The best time to visit Austria for winter sports is between December and February. There are ample opportunities to ski or snowboard in the lofty Alpine peaks, where you can admire the snowy mountainscapes. The cities and villages blossom with Christmas markets, bringing lights and festivities each December.

Austria has hot summers, with temperatures in the early-to-mid seventies, and cold winters of around 32°F to 37°F. Between these two seasons, you’ll find months with lighter crowds, and cool daytime temperatures that become chilly in the evenings. However, it’s rarely too sweltering or biting to enjoy the region, making it a year-round destination.

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Month-by-month guide for traveling in Austria

Visiting Austria in January - February

Snow turns the Alps into a playground for winter sports, including ice skating, sledding and cross-country skiing. You can visit a variety of competitions. The weather in the higher elevations is very cold and windy, so pack accordingly.

In the cities, the weather is more moderate, with temperatures usually above freezing during the day. Hearty visitors there to see the cultural sights will find good value at hotels, thin crowds and cityscapes transformed by the snow.

Visiting Austria in March - May

The weather is still chilly this time of year, with daytime temperatures hovering between the 50s and 60s °F in the cities. This translates to thinner crowds, meaning the hotels offer good value. Winter sports are less certain in the mountains, but it’s a lovely time to explore the cities.

Visiting Austria in June - August

The summer months are hot but not sweltering and offer ample opportunity for outdoor adventures. Venture to the mountains for hiking and the lake district towns of Saint Wolfgang and Hallstatt to enjoy the water. You’ll find plenty of other visitors, both international and local, but the crowds are bustling rather than pressing.

Visiting Austria in September - November

Summer crowds thin as the temperatures start to dip, making this a good time to enjoy both the cities and countryside. You’ll find better value at hotels and the atmosphere is a bit quieter with fewer visitors.

Visiting Austria in December

Despite the cold weather and snow, December is often one of the busiest months in Austria thanks to the wealth of Christkindlmarkts. Stalls strung with festive lights pop up in cities and towns across the country, selling seasonal food and drink, as well as Christmas gifts. There’s often entertainment, as well.

Austria Climate Guide

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15 things to do to make your February fantastic in Vienna

It may be the shortest of all the months, but it’s got plenty to offer. shake off that winter fatigue with these tips of what to do to make your february fantastic in vienna:.

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Pretend the wet stains on your pants from falling down don't bother you!

Go ice skating!

various locations

Thu. 01st Feb — Thu. 29th Feb

doing pirouettes on the ice, floating instead of walking from A to B, making a fool out of yourself and not caring one bit, trying your crazy dance moves out on ice

There’s no other feeling like it – the cold on your face, a red nose, gliding over the ice, and on occasion falling in a puddle of melted ice.

Get your skates on and visit one of the ice skating rinks around Vienna. We especially recommend checking out the ice skating rink at the Wiener Eislaufverein in the centre of the city or the famous rink at Rathausplatz, Wiener Eistraum . The atmosphere is perfect for winter.

Winter is the 'reader's hour', so we've heard.

Pick up a book and start cultivating a reading habit

reading philosophy books instead of magazines, that weird kind of Nordic darkness, the smell of old books, the crackling of burning wood

Winter is the ‘reader’s hour’, so we’ve heard. The weather can be pretty grim, and it’s very hard to find motivation to leave the house. It’s the best time to immerse yourself in a great book. Hot chocolate, a warm bed, and fireplaces go really well with a book. So why not take a book and head to one of those cosy cafés where you can sit by a fire and lose yourself in a book ?!

You can hear the 'Habanera' in your head right now, can't you?

Thu. 01st Feb, Sat. 03rd Feb

the classics, humming opera tunes in the shower, dramatic gestures while ordering coffee, wearing a fancy scarf, sassy comebacks

‘L’amour est un oiseau rebelle que nul ne peut apprivoiser…’ – you know how it goes. Love is a rebellious bird that no one can tame, and ‘Carmen’ by Bizet is an opera you definitely shouldn’t skip. It’s packed with some real bangers and is absolutely worth checking out on the biggest opera stage in the world… cough… we mean in Vienna.

Bend over backward to get to this show!

Cirque du Soleil ‘OVO’

Thu. 01st Feb — Sun. 04th Feb

8pm — 10:30pm

Buy tickets

bendy people, body paint, outstanding jaw-dropping shows, weird made-up languages, speaking Portuguese even if you don’t speak Portuguese, being overstimulated

The Cirque is coming to town! You don’t want to miss a show with people who paint their bodies bright colours and then throw said bodies into the air in order to defy death, gravity and anybody else who would try and stop them from fllyyyyying!! Well, you don’t want to miss that, do you??

Geek out at the comic and film fair

Wiener Comic & Film Börse

Sun. 07th Apr

spending the weekend with comics and films, actions figures, using your old bed sheets as a cape and pretending to be Superman, still waiting to receive your superpowers, finally having an occasion to let your inner nerd out

This Sunday, you can bargain and hunt for comics and films at the huge location of the Berufsschule Längenfeldgasse. Here you’ll find rarities from all around the comic world, action figurines and other merch. Oh, and swapping is allowed too.

We're all gonna do it

Follow the News about 66th Vienna Opera Ball from your Couch

Thu. 08th Feb

being in the loop, Wiener Staatsoper, commenting on celebreties’ looks, day dreaming, having the best conversation starters in the office

You know it, we know it, everyone knows it – the Vienna Opera Ball is happening. If you’re one of the lucky ones who managed to snag a ticket, we’re happy for you (and maybe just a tad jealous). But for those of us who can only dream of going this year, we can still catch all the glitz and glamour from the comfort of our couches. There’ll be plenty of coverage on social media, in newspapers, and multiple other sources (hey, we might even join in!). So grab some popcorn and get ready to enjoy the night without having to squeeze into black tie attire.

Fill your Sunday with some underground wrestling action  

WUW Undergroundwrestling Faschingshow

Sun. 11th Feb

4pm — 6:30pm

underground wrestling, funny-looking masks, black tongues, live music, tattoos, oiled muscles, the smell of sweat, drinking beer, watching lightly clad people fight in a ring, thinking that maybe you should start working out again

Some people love fighting while others are appalled at the idea of it. If you belong to the first camp, then watching a bunch of professional wrestlers at this Sunday’s WUW Underground Wrestling at Weberknecht promises to blast you into submission. There will be a couple of fights held at the venue with some live music afterwards. We recommend not getting too drunk and accidentally lurching into the ring. That might end badly for you.

Come for the costumes, stay for the krapfen

Crazy Carneval, the fun of Fasching

Tue. 13th Feb

Fasching, krapfen, dressing up, parties, carnivals, having fun, re-imagining old traditions

Wild, crazy, colourful, fun-filled carneval – we are happy to have you back! We wouldn’t miss a chance to play dress-up for anything in the world, and neither should you. Whether you shake your ass in a David Bowie costume in a club or intend on being a drunk unicorn at a house party – this is the time of the year to let loose and simply have fun. And on top of that, delicious jam-filled Faschingskrapfen can be found at every other corner of this city. Oops, we just accidentally started drooling.

If you are lucky enough to have the time to travel to one of the traditional Faschingsumzüge in the rural parts of Austria, you should definitely go for it. Seeing those artfully crafted costumes and masks and wild figures who are trying to scare the winter away really is an experience of its own kind.

Tip: Many clubs offer a discount of entry if you come in costume – all the more reason to get in character

Look at pretty things in Kunsthistorisches Museum

‘Pomp & Embossment’: The Emperors and their Court Artists

Tue. 13th Feb — Sun. 13th Oct

art history, looking at shiny things, marble and brass, small important details, saying that the Roman Empire is your Roman Empire

‘Pomp & Embossment’ at the Kunsthistorisches Museum is all about cool medals and art from royal courts. So, there are going to be a lot of shiny pieces that you’ll really want to steal for your cabinet of curiosities, but won’t be able to.

Enjoy being single or in love this month on Valentine's Day

Valentine’s Day & World Single Day

Wed. 14th Feb

making love on a bear rug (a fake one of course), lotsa’ sexy time, being single, being madly in love, candle-lit dinner, composing love songs for yourself or your lover

Yes, it’s Valentine’s Day this month! If this inspires a groan from the depths of your belly, then look away from this event tip and read on! However, if you’re the romantic type, or have somebody special in your life, we’d suggest you check out 6 of Vienna’s most romantic bars for dates, drinks & cuddling .

And hey all you singles! We didn’t forget you. There’s plenty of tips on how you, the lone wolf, can spend this – some say, commercial day hijacking love, some say, sacred day of sweetness that ends in a climax of some wild rooty tooty – day. Our random tip for more happiness: Get your lazy ass out of the house and check out these beautiful, colourful Viennese doors that will hopefully instantly boost your mood on this gray day.

Get your picture taken at the Belvedere

Come for a Kiss!

spreading love, receiving love, kissing loved ones (or strangers), the Belvedere museum, breaking out of your comfort zone, smooching, kissing with tongue

Grab a loved one and head to the Belvedere Museum this Valentine’s Day. From 6:30pm until midnight, couples will have the opportunity to stand in front of Gustav Klimt’s iconic painting, ‘The Kiss’ and well… smooch as a professional photographer captures their affection. So, if you’re feeling bold, celebrate your love, get your photo taken free of charge, and show the characters in Klimt’s masterpiece how it’s truly done.

Pretend to be a really rich person for one day

Art at the Park

Thu. 22nd Feb — Sun. 25th Feb

9am — 6pm

walking around fancy places, stealing hotel room shampoos, squinting your eyes to get a new perspective, saying ‘this would look great in my living room’, finding out the art piece you like is worth more than all of your organs combined

If anything comes close to Gossip Girl in Vienna, it’s gotta be this event. Walk through the grand floors of the majestic Park Hyatt Hotel and look at even more majestic art. So grab your finest suit, borrow your grandmas’ mink fur coat, put on a fun accent and pretend to be a Genovian royalty who’s come to look at some damn fine art.

Go look at some bright colours!

Matta at the Bank Austria Kunstforum Vienna

Sat. 24th Feb — Sun. 02nd Jun

art history books, Graphic design, getting all philosophical over a cup of coffee, the thrill of standing before large canvases

Roberto Matta is the guy who really shook up the 20th-century art scene, inspiring big names like Jackson Pollock. His paintings are super colourful and vibrant – just the thing to see as Vienna wakes up for spring.

The big design market is back

Edelstoff Design Market

Sat. 04th May — Sun. 05th May

alternative markets, young designers, filling your wardrobe with unique fashion, quirky prints, enjoying some great food truck food, hip people, to see and be seen, tote bags, tattoos and big hats

The Edelstoff market is back! We remember our time at the last Edelstoff Designmarkt fondly – we were greedily munching our way through the different street food stands while looking at some damn hip design, art and jewellery. Multitasking is a glorious thing.

We like that even though there’s always a big, young crowd at Edelstoff, it never gets too full, or stressful. The market will also feature the traditional hoard of food trucks to splurge at, while they also have some neat DJ tunes in the background to serve your hedonistic urges.

Go to a festival - act accordion-ly

25. internationales Akkordeon Festival

Mon. 24th Feb — Sun. 17th Mar

accordion, singing and harmonica, exploring an underrated music genre, discovering new artists and talents, smaller more cozy events compared to massive ones, actively listening, chill but also wild vibes

Ever listened to accordion music? There is a whole festival of it. This is your chance to listen to the best of Austria’s newcomer accordion artists and talents who will step up on stage in various locations in Vienna and Lower Austria. Oh, and not to forget the harmonica will also make an appearance in addition to plenty of singing. Don’t miss your chance to enjoy this underrated genre.

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Winter in Austria: 10 Places to Visit on Your Winter Vacation

Although charming and fascinating in every season, Austria transforms during winter into true fairytale land, where every city and town becomes the scene of an enchanting story.

From November to March, the country experiences generous snowfall, which means that there are plenty of places to visit in Austria in winter where you can enjoy the best of the season, including Christmas markets, winter sports and activities, picturesque towns decorated in twinkling lights, and impressive landscape.

Austria winter holidays have an authentic atmosphere that will certainly captivate you.

Table of Contents

10 Places to Visit in Austria in Winter

A trip to Austria during winter cannot exclude the grand Austrian capital Vienna, which is famously known for its festive attire during the holidays.

The city’s pretty squares host some of the most popular Christmas markets in Europe, where visitors can happily indulge in traditional food and drinks and warm up with some mulled wine while exploring the impressive range of stalls selling everything from handicraft items to chocolate treats and local products.

Choral performances add a new dimension to the magical atmosphere of the city during the winter holidays. Besides the gorgeous Christmas markets, Vienna offers plenty of other exciting seasonal opportunities, such as ice-skating.

Ice rinks abound in the city throughout the winter, many of them set up in impressive locations, such as the Gardens of the Wilhelminenberg Palace or the esplanade in front of the Vienna Konzerthaus.

Visiting Vienna in winter is a chance to discover the city with its grand architecture and abundance of museums, galleries, and palaces in a new, atmospheric light.

You might be interested in my 3- day Vienna itinerary. 

2. Wildschönau

Among the many things to do in Austria in winter, skiing is probably the first thing that comes to people’s minds, which is why Wildschönau is one of the most popular attractions in the country. Sitting at around 1,000 meters above sea level, in the heart of Tirol, Wildschönau is a remote Alpine valley in the Kitzbühel Alps.

Home to three charming villages, Oberau, Auffach, and Thierbach, and plenty of charming farmhouses and mountain huts, the area provides an excellent infrastructure for winter sports. Alpbachtal Wildschönau is one of the most popular ski resorts in all of Tirol, and it’s easy to reach with a cable car from the village of Auffach.

The resort welcomes visitors with 109 kilometers of slopes of various degrees of difficulty, tens of lifts, rustic ski huts where people can unwind after ski or snowboard sessions and, last but not least, breathtaking views of the Alps. In addition, there are tens of kilometers of cross-country tracks and scenic winter walking paths to explore. Another attraction in the area is the Schaubergwerk Lehenlahn, a former silver mine dating from the Middle Ages.

3. Innsbruck

Due to its position beneath the Austrian Alps, Innsbruck is one of the most picturesque places in Europe. During winter, the Old Town with its incredible medieval Gothic architecture and maze of narrow streets turns into a fairytale under the spell of the snow, especially with the opening of the traditional Christmas markets.

Set in the heart of the Old Town, the Altstadt Christmas market is where most people gather to enjoy some hot mulled wine and check out the numerous stalls with ornaments, candles, pastries, and local handicraft products that showcase the wealth of local traditions.

Exploring the colorful city, decorated with twinkling holiday lights and lit-up Christmas trees, is an adventure in itself and presents plenty of opportunities to taste delicious snacks and apple strudels and soak up the cozy winter atmosphere.

The Innsbruck larger area is also home to the amazing Olympia Ski World, a ski area of nine resorts, all easily accessible from the city with a free ski bus shuttle.

You might want to check out: Things to do in Innsbruck in winter.

4. Hallstatt

Although it’s just a tiny village, it’s incredible how photogenic Hallstatt can be. In fact, tourists from all over the world gush over this small but spectacularly scenic village. A UNESCO World Heritage site with only nine hundred inhabitants, Hallstatt becomes even more beautiful in winter, when its small wooden houses get covered in snow.

Situated on the shore of a glittering lake, with snow-capped mountains in the background, Hallstatt is the true definition of a magical place, especially during the holidays, when it’s lighted by Christmas decorations. Even though many attractions may be closed, winter is still a wonderful time to visit because of the irresistible atmosphere of the village.

Plus, there is no shortage of things to do. A visit to the World Heritage Museum of Hallstatt, the 12th -century Catholic Church, or to the Altaussee Salt Mine, the oldest salt mine in the world, is well worth it. In the vicinity of the village, you can also engage in various outdoor activities, such as skiing or dogsledding.

5. Salzburg

The host of some of the best Christmas markets in Europe , Salzburg is a city that truly shines during winter. With a tradition of over 500 years, Salzburg’s main Christmas market is also one of the oldest on the continent. Held each year on the front steps of the Salzburg Cathedral, Christkindlmarkt is a feast to the senses.

The gorgeous ornament stands, huge Christmas trees, and gleaming lights create a wonderful atmosphere. The wooden stalls offer steaming mulled wine, gingerbread biscuits, punch, and many other tasty treats, along with other local wintery products. Tucked away in pretty squares throughout the city, there are other smaller markets with cheaper prices.

Smaller than Vienna, Salzburg has a much cozier look, especially when dressed in Christmas lights and blanketed by snow. With its colorful architecture, beautiful clock towers, and snow-covered roofs, the city delivers the most authentic Christmas atmosphere, and the range of delightful winter activities available here is impressive.

The city is the birthplace of classical composer Mozart and honors him and his music with plenty of winter concerts held in stunning venues. In Mozart Square, a huge ice skating rink is set up during winter.

You might be interested in: Things to do in Salzburg in one day .     

 6. Kitzbühel

As the most famous sports town in the Alps, Kitzbühel is, no doubt, one of the best winter destinations in Austria. Located in Tirol, the charming town offers a magnificent blend of Alpine landscapes, sporting tradition, and modern facilities such as great mountain restaurants and inns or shopping venues.

The skiing season lasts over 200 days in the region, and everyone from beginners to advanced skiers can find fabulous conditions to practice the sport since Kitzbühel is home to a wide range of terrain that can easily accommodate both amateurs and experts.

The skiing area has a truly impressive size, with 68 ski runs and 215 kilometers of slopes of various difficulties. Away from the slopes, visitors can explore the panoramic beauty of the mountains through winter hiking, cross-country skiing, or horse-drawn sleigh riding.

Kitzbühel is also famous for the Streif, the home to the most spectacular downhill race track in the world, the Hahnenkamm ski race.

7. Zell am See-Kaprun

Winter lovers who want to explore the best of Austria will find Zell am See-Kaprun an ideal destination. The area covers several quaint Alpine towns, and during the winter, it totally transforms into a winter sports hotspot with slopes able to accommodate everyone from the most experienced skiers and snowboarders to enthusiastic beginners.

There are also several reputable ski schools with expert ski instructors eager to introduce you to this fantastic sport if you’re a beginner. The impressive altitudes of up to 3,000 meters above sea level mean that the range of spectacular landscapes is hard to match.

Besides the offer of intense outdoor activities, the area is also home to the Ice Camp, a series of igloos with breathtaking panoramic views of the mountains, where guests can have a drink or a snack while socializing or listening to music.

Another relaxing way to spend time here is going to Tauern Spa, one of the best wellness resorts in the country with 11 pools, 10 saunas, steam baths, and many interesting facilities, including a glass skyline pool with views of the Alps.

8. Ötztal Valley: Solden and Obergurgl-Hochgurgl

As the home of Tirol’s highest mountain and tallest waterfall, and of one the largest glacier ski resorts in the Alps, the Ötztal Valley sums up the best of the region in a compact area. In winter, the two peaceful and quiet villages, Obergurgl and Hochgurgl, located at the far end of the valley, become a popular ski area, serving as a base for a wide range of sports and winter activities.

For many, the Ötztal Valley is a true winter wonderland where they can have an active holiday in a magnificent setting. In fact, the Obergurgl- Hochgurgl area is known as the “Diamond of the Alps” due to its superb views of the mountains, impressive sports facilities, top quality skiing, great restaurants, and outstanding Austrian hospitality.

Right at the heart of Ötztal Valley is the Alpine resort Sölden, renowned as a top winter sports center, surrounded by high mountains of over 3,000 meters, glaciers, and meadows. The number of slopes and lifts is greater than anyone could even explore in a week-long holiday.

The best thing to do away from the slopes is going to Aqua Dome Therme Längenfeld, a superbly designed spa with outdoor and indoor pools and several saunas.

9. Lake Wörthersee

Located in the region of Carinthia, Lake Wörthersee is a massively popular attraction during the summer, and it is well worth exploring during winter as well, when it transforms into a huge outdoor skating rink. Due to its location, it is surrounded by areas that provide excellent opportunities for other outdoor activities, such as winter hiking, cross-country skiing, curling, or tobogganing.

Only 15 minutes away is the Gerlitz Alps ski area, which is another Austrian hotspot for a ski holiday. Another major attraction in the area is the Carinthia thermal baths, where guest can relax after a strenuous ski session. The Werzer Badenhaus is a historic spa recently reopened to the public, which offers an intimate, cozy setting in the winter with gorgeous views over the lake.

The spa includes the only heated lake pool around Wörthersee. The tradition of bathhouses is well established in Carinthia, and many can be found right on the shore, offering panoramic views over the lake and the surrounding mountains.

The capital of the Styria region, Graz is the second largest city in Austria, and it is known for its stunning blend of Baroque and Renaissance architecture.  The Old Town has a unique charm and is an overwhelming testament of the city’s rich history and culture.

Without having the aura of Vienna or Salzburg, Graz is a beautiful city whose qualities shine through during winter. With Christmas markets lavishly taking over the squares, the historic Old Town turns into a magical place, where the smell of mulled wine, peppermint tea, and Christmas sweets attract people into the streets.

Christmas lights and colorful crystal decorations emphasize the beauty of the architecture and the scenic setting of the city, which means that walking around will be a rewarding experience. Graz is also a gastronomic heaven, and Christmas markets are the best place to sample some of the region’s most popular staples.

Check out: The best Christmas Markets in Austria.

Although Christmas markets and winter festivities and activities abound in Europe, everything seems to have a much more authentic feel in Austria. Although relatively small, the country has everything from grand imperial architecture to cozy mountain huts to satisfy every kind of winter fantasy.

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Going to Visit Austria next week as I don’t know much about it so I was looking for a blog to suggest me the best places to visit there thanks for your recommendations

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14 Top Things to Do in Winter in Austria

Written by Diana Bocco Updated Sep 16, 2022 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Home to the Alps and some of the best skiing in Europe , Austria makes for a stunning place to visit in the winter. And while you probably should spend some time playing in the snow when you visit – non-skiers can try tobogganing, snowshoeing, or winter hiking – there are also plenty of things to do indoors in the Austrian winter.

Plus, winter might just be one of the best times to visit Austria, as you'll find lower prices and smaller crowds, making for a perfect, more intimate getaway.

Whether you're visiting for the history, the outdoor activities, or the arts, we've put together a list of the top things to do in winter in Austria.

1. Give Skiing a Try

2. make time for castles and palaces, 3. experience snowshoeing and winter hiking, 4. attend a holiday concert, 5. show your moves at a ball, 6. wander through alpine villages, 7. experience the adrenaline of tobogganing, 8. visit christmas markets, 9. heal yourself at a thermal spa, 10. visit famous attractions high up in the clouds, 11. enjoy traditional austrian cuisine, 12. go ice-skating outdoors, 13. ride an alpine coaster, 14. stop by a husky ranch, map of things to do in winter in austria.

Skiing could just be Austria's national sport – both mountain and cross-country skiers will be spoiled for choice when visiting here.

Kitzbühel is one of the top ski resorts in Austria , with over 170 kilometers of slopes, 54 cable cars, and every possible level of skiing imaginable. In Austria's Arlberg area, St. Anton is a resort for serious skiers looking for high altitude and off-piste challenges .

The villages of Lech-Zürs are where celebrities and royalty head for upscale skiing and high-end lodgings , while Sölden, surrounded by glaciers, offers perfect snow conditions well into spring.

Every March, as the ski season comes to an end, there's a unique event on Feuerkogel mountain known as the "Nostalgia Ski Race," where skiers dress in early 20th-century clothing to slide down the mountain as the locals did over a century ago. Events and celebrations last well into the night, when both adults and children are invited to take on the slopes as well.

The royal grand architecture of Austria is beautiful no matter what time of the year you're visiting, but there's something special about visiting a 17th-century castle buried under snow. Luckily, Austria's castles, fortresses, and palaces stay open throughout the winter, allowing for quiet strolls in the royal gardens and not-so-crowded tours of the interiors.

Austria's most picturesque castle is probably Burg Kreuzenstein, just north of Vienna and famous for its imposing towers. Medieval Burg Hochosterwitz, with its 14 fortified gates, doesn't fall far behind.

For easy access, try one of the many buildings that are within the borders of major cities. Hohensalzburg Fortress, sitting on a hill right over the city of Salzburg, dates back to the 11th century, and it's one of Europe's largest fortress complexes .

A short 40-minute ride outside Salzburg takes you to stunning Werfen Castle, a Hollywood favorite that has appeared on everything from The Sound of Music to the Netflix series The Man In The High Castle to the video game Call of Duty: Black Ops III .

For the non-skiers, Austria offers just as many trails and stunning mountain views in the form of snowshoeing and winter hiking. Depending on where you are in the country, you'll have a chance to explore enchanting forests, glacier trails, or Alpine valleys covered in powdery snow.

One of the top things to do in Salzburg is take the cable car up to the Mauterndorf ski area and find the snowshoe trails that zigzag through the top of the mountain. Or venture down into the Rauris Valley forest, surrounded by thundering peaks and wildlife.

Tirol's Tannheimer Tal Valley is another popular place to visit for snowshoeing, perfect for exploring the rolling hills under blue winter skies.

If you don't own snowshoes, you can rent a pair at most hotels or try winter hiking, which doesn't require any special equipment. Winter hiking is best near towns, where the roads are cleared of deep soft snow regularly.

The Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra is an amazing spectacle at any time of the year, but during the holidays, they hold special classical concerts that are must-sees. Their famous New Year's Concert sells months in advance.

The Kursalon concert venue in Vienna also offers special holiday concerts on December 24th and New Year's Eve, plus a gala event on December 25th. For something extra special, check out the schedule at the Mozarthaus -- the house where Mozart lived and composed his most famous pieces offers advent concerts during December.

Even if you're not in Vienna, don't worry, most cities and towns around the country have their own marching bands and caroling choirs that take to the streets during the holiday season. If you're in Western Austria, the New Year's Day Concert by the Tyrol Symphony Orchestra is equally popular and great entertainment.

The Tyrol Winter Festival Erl is a treat that mixes opera performances with Christmas specials . Another famous must-see in Tyrol is the Christmas concerts of the Wilten Boys' Choir, if you arrive early and can secure a spot in the Court Church.

Between November and April, Austria holds almost 500 balls – most of which happen in Vienna in January and February. The Viennese Ball is a centuries-old tradition that preserves a very strict ceremonial program of fancy dress code, waltzing, fine cuisine, and the exclamation "Alles Walzer!" to get the celebration started. Joining this tradition is one of the top things to do in Vienna .

Getting tickets to a Viennese Ball is no easy task, and they don't come cheap either. The Ball of the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra, held at the Vienna Musikverein concert hall, is the highlight of the season, but the Physicians' Ball at the Imperial Palace is equally stunning and equally hard to get into.

In Graz, the ball to attend is the one held at the Opera House, where the city's philharmonic orchestra, the official ballet, and the opera ensemble all come together for the opening act.

If you don't know how to waltz, don't worry. Many dance schools around the country offer last-minute classes and workshops to teach you the basics so you can gracefully swirl around the dance floor.

Austrian Alpine villages are some of the best places to visit in Austria year long, but they are particularly magical when it snows. There's a unique charm to cobblestone streets covered in powdery white as you make your way around centuries-old buildings decorated for the holidays.

Hallstatt is one of Austria's most famous mountain villages . It sits between the shores of Lake Hallstatt and the Salzkammergut Mountains, surrounded by glaciers and near an ancient salt mine.

Mountain villages in Tyrol are particularly easy to explore in winter , as many have a train station right in town. Try stopping in Kufstein to see the medieval Kufstein Fortress and traditional wooden houses, or visit Seefeld, which sits in a valley surrounded by the Wetterstein and Karwendel mountains.

For an even better winter in the mountains, pick a mountain resort. You'll have the snowcapped mountains right outside your door plus most likely a Kachelofen (traditional tiled fireplace) to sit next to at the end of the day.

• Read More: Top Tourist Attractions in Hallstatt and along the Hallstätter See

Tobogganing is part of every childhood in Austria – and fortunately for visitors, the fun continues on for adults. Lots of mountain huts and ski resorts offer toboggan rentals, so you can take to the hills.

The Tyrol region has numerous toboggan runs , many of which can be accessed using a cable car. The Glampweg Toboggan Run, for example, starts with a ride up on a cable car before you whiz down the mountain for a speedy 6.5-kilometer descent. Others, like the Bernhardseck Toboggan Run and the Brettlalm Toboggan Run, require a hike up on snowy trails (snowshoes are sometimes required).

You don't need any special skills or experience to try tobogganing, but some runs are more difficult than others, as they can reach speeds of 45 kilometers per hour for the entire slide down, with tight turns along the way.

Austria is home to some of the best Christmas markets in Europe . In Vienna, the Christmas markets are everywhere, but the Viennese Dream Christmas Market in front of City Hall and the Christmas Village at Belvedere Palace are the most popular ones.

With a backdrop of stunning architecture, the regular presence of choirs singing carols, and hundreds of festive market stalls, it doesn't get much better than these.

One of Austria's best winter destinations is Innsbruck , a town surrounded by snowcapped mountains that becomes a Christmas wonderland in December. The Christmas markets are one of the highlights of Innsbruck – especially the main one at Old Town Market. They have a historic touch, selling lots of handmade goodies, traditional Christmas ornaments, and winter treats.

Other must-visit Christmas markets include Salzburg's Christkindl, which started in the 1400s and is one of the oldest in the country, and the Glockenspielplatz Christmas Market in Graz, which offers themed days and exclusive home-made handicrafts.

The colder it gets in Austria, the more popular outdoor swimming pools become. Of course, these aren't your regular pools but thermal baths, heated pools, and saunas in the heart of Alpine valleys, surrounded by a blanket of snow.

Austria's most famous thermal spa is the Aqua Dome Hotel & Spa . Located in the heart of the Ötztal valley, this futuristic-looking spa features 12 floating pools filled with healing spring water flowing from 6,000 feet underground, plus seven saunas, a 25-meter lane pool, and a number of spa treatments. Since the spa is open until midnight, you can even enjoy the healing waters under the starry sky.

The spa town of Bad Gastein, also surrounded by the towering Hohe Tauern mountains, is another great option for thermal baths. It was a favorite destination of 19th-century Empress Elisabeth, who visited regularly because of the healing waters. The health resort of Bad Häring in Tyrol offers over 50 types of treatments, including sulfur baths and mineral springs.

There's more to do on the snowcapped mountains of Austria than having fun on the slopes. Austria is actually home to some very unique high-altitude destinations that are well worth a visit.

The 007 ELEMENTS is a James Bond cinematic installation that sits 3,000 meters above sea level at the top of Gaislachkogel mountain – exactly in the place where scenes from James Bond's movie Spectre were filmed .

You can also visit Café 3.440, Austria's highest café , reached by a cable car at the top of Pitztal Glacier. Getting here is an adventure in itself - you'll have to catch a ride in the world's fastest funicular and the highest one in Austria. Once you reach the top, you'll be rewarded with some of the best 360-degree mountain views in the country.

Austria is also well-known for its glass viewpoint platforms , which tend to sit right over deep valleys or over giant snowcapped mountains. At the top of the Dachstein mountains, you'll find the Stairways to Nothingness platform with unobstructed views over the glacier, as well as a 100-meter-long suspension bridge built over a 400-meter drop right over the rugged walls of the mountains.

Or you can try the Summit World 3000 platform at the top of Kitzsteinhorn Mountain, 3,029 meters above sea level.

If all the skiing and tobogganing has whet your appetite, you're in luck - Austrian cuisine is perfect for winter days.

A favorite in Alpine huts, ski restaurants, and cafés, Kaiserschmarrn is perfect as a dessert or an afternoon snack. It's made with fluffy pancakes topped with berries, nuts, and fruit sauce.

For a filling warm lunch, try Käsespätzle, Austria's version of Mac & Cheese made with a variety of local cheeses and topped with onions. Or grab a plate of knödel, round dumplings made with potatoes and a touch of nutmeg. They're often served with herbs and melted butter or prepared with an apricot filling, so make sure you confirm when you order whether you're getting the salty or the dessert option.

At cafés, Austria's Apfelstrudel (apple strudel) and Vienna's famous Sachertorte chocolate cake (filled with layers of apricot jam) are two must-tries if you have a sweet tooth.

Out for a walk? Keep your eyes open for maronistands stands selling roasted chestnuts – they come hot in a bag, so you can eat them on the go.

You'll find plenty of indoor rinks in Austria, but the true beauty of ice-skating here can only be experienced if you brave the temperatures outside. In areas like Tirol, many lakes completely freeze over, so you can ice-skate surrounded by majestic, towering snow-covered mountains.

But no matter where you are in Austria, you'll find plenty of stunning outdoor rinks. In Vienna, the Rathausplatz rink outside Vienna's City Hall is a great option – and especially beautiful in winter, when the Christmas lights (and the giant tree) are on.

For stunning outdoor opportunities, it doesn't get better than skating on the famous Danube River – though this is only possible in very cold years. If that's not an option, there's always Lake Weissensee in Carinthia, which becomes a 25-kilometer-long circular track when it freezes over.

Alpine coasters are extremely popular in Europe. They are somewhat similar to roller coasters, but instead of being set inside an amusement park, they're built on ski slopes and mountainsides.

They're not just slides either – Alpine coasters have pulley systems to haul the cars up a hill and sometimes speed controls (these coasters can easily reach speeds of up to 40 kilometers per hour) and brakes to maneuver the gravity-driven twists and turns as you speed down the mountain.

Austria has a number of year-round Alpine coasters, and the magic of riding them in winter – cold air on your face, surrounded by snow – is definitely unique. The Lauser Sauser coaster in Alpbach has a 1,420-meter-long track, is set 18 meters off the ground (the highest Alpine coaster in Austria), and offers beautiful views of the Alpbachtal Valley and thick forest around it.

Another great one to try is the Arena Coaster at Zell am Ziller. Surrounded by stunning mountain scenery, the coaster is popular because of its hairpin twists and dips, and the breathtaking 540-degree circle turn.

For an action-packed outdoor adventure, it's hard to beat dogsledding. Sitting in a sled covered by thick blankets and being pulled across open valleys filled with snow and surrounded by forests feels like a bit of a fairy tale. Even better, you'll find that the huskies pulling you are enjoying the experience just as much as you do.

There are a number of dogsledding experiences in Austria, including attending training camps, taking a tour, and visiting a ranch where the dogs live. The Tirol region is a popular destination to meet huskies, and there are many ranch experiences that include bonfire nights, dogsled rides by moonlight, and even husky trekking.

Other areas, like Kleinwalsertal Valley and the Waldviertel Region, are also popular dogsledding destinations.

More on Austria

The best time to visit Vienna: from Christmas markets to festivals

Nov 6, 2023 • 5 min read

The Vienna Opernball is a February highlight, but alas only 5000 notables are invited © Chris Hofer / Getty Images

Austria ’s cultured and charismatic capital Vienna is anything but one-dimensional; the city changes with the seasons.

Winter brings jubilant Christmas markets, and summer offers up delightful warm weather that entices locals to spend afternoons lounging in the city’s green spaces. An impressive array of annual events adds even more variety. Additionally, some city must-dos, like whiling away an afternoon in one of the town’s famed coffee houses, where everyone from Freud to Marx got their caffeine fill, can be enjoyed whatever the season.

Whether you want to see live music, sip a lager in a summer Biergarten  (beer garden) or just avoid the crowds, here’s our guide to the best time to visit Vienna.

December is all about Christmas in Vienna

Christmastime in Vienna gets the tourists coming back year after year. Yes, it’s the Christmas market season, and Vienna has lots and lots of them. Mainstream markets, like the one that takes over Rathausplatz in front of the Town Hall, resemble villages, with stalls lined with festive staples, including wooden toys, bratwursts,  Glühwein  (mulled wine),   and marzipan. But there are more unique markets, too, including the Spittelberg iteration, where stalls tend to focus on more artisan items, like jewelry.

The city’s annual calendar finishes with a bang as firework displays mark the coming of a new year.

See Vienna's museums without the crowds from January to May 

If you want a Vienna experience that’s less chaotic, try the first part of the year. Many travelers retreat in the face of chilly temperatures, but the weather isn’t a problem in the city’s cozy coffee shops and fascinating museums, palaces and galleries. Tour the Schloss Belvedere without getting elbowed and get into any of the MuseumsQuartier ’s museums without the lines. Getting a table at a restaurant of your choice is easier, too (outside of Valentine's Day week, that is). 

A top tip is to remember that the always-popular Christmas markets (rebranded as “New Year’s Markets” and offering the same intriguing trinket stands and enticing food stalls, but without the over-the-top Christmas decorations) and ice-skating rinks continue through January, though with far fewer crowds than in December.

In March, winter transforms into spring in the Austrian capital, and people begin to leave their heavy coats at home. April sees a flurry of activity on the streets of Vienna as two key sporting events take over the city. In the Rathausplatz and surrounding areas, cyclists show off their bikes as part of the Argus Bike Festival , with stalls and demos, as well as displays from BMXers and dirt bikers.

Later in the month, it’s the turn of the runners to take center stage as the city’s annual marathon takes place – taking part is like a sightseeing tour of the city, as runners pass all the key historic Habsburg sights on their extended circuit. 

In late May, look out for the Vienna short film festival, Vienna Shorts , which has been going for two decades and provides a great platform for up-and-coming filmmakers.  Vienna Festwochen  also takes place in May, with shows covering theatre, art, dance, and everything in between happening across the city.

From June to August, enjoy the good life – outdoors

At times, it can feel like the world has descended upon Vienna  en masse on those warm summer days in high season. But if you can put up with the crowds, this really is a lovely time to be in Vienna, with the city's parks , vineyards, lakes and outdoor pools all perfect for a sunny afternoon. In the evening, a packed calendar of events , from film festivals to outdoor concerts, stirs into life, and it feels like the whole city is out and about.

Austrians love a beer, and Vienna’s Bier Festival in June is a mainstay of the city’s events calendar. There are  Biergärten  set up all over the city, and with the sun shining and temperatures rising, you’ll find much merriment taking place. Also in June, the Vienna Jazz Festival provides a smooth soundtrack to the long summer nights, while street-fashion lovers should check out Fesch’Markt , which gives space to new young designers in a large industrial space.

Cinema is huge in Vienna, and July’s warm evenings mean serious alfresco film festival action, with the Town Hall Square Film Festival in Rathausplatz kicking off in July and running into September. Cinephiles should also make time for a visit to the Austrian Film Museum, which is home to a collection of approximately 31,000 films and hosts a handful of showings every day. Away from film, Popfest, a cool music festival, comes to town.

In August, the hottest month in Vienna, the city can become excessively warm, and citizens cool off at the seasonal Strandbäder  and lidos (beaches and pools) that open up from May until September.

September to November is the best time for culture

Fall is a great time to be in the city, with fewer crowds, cheaper hotel prices and lingering good weather (especially in September and early October).

By September, the students have started back at university, and locals go back to work following the summer vacation. Not everyone’s hard at work though: the Wiesn, Vienna’s answer to Oktoberfest, sees big-time beer drinking and oompah music round off the summer season.

History and design fans get their chance to experience the best that Vienna has to offer in October with the annual Long Night of the Museums at the start of the month, with museums and galleries across the city open after dark and beckoning people in with music and other special treats.

Alongside this, Vienna’s noteworthy Design Week is Europe’s largest and has been taking place in late September and early October since 2007. Expect talks, launches, displays and other surprises from across the worlds of graphic design, fashion, architecture and product design. 

In November, music fans will want to check out the Wien Modern Festival, where avant-garde musicians and new composers are given the space to play their newest and boldest arrangements. 

This article was first published Oct 23, 2021 and updated Nov 6, 2023.

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Things To Do In Vienna February 2024 Or How to Carnival

What are the best things to do in Vienna in February 2024? Actually, dance balls are one of the best options to warm up this chilly month. However, if you are not into dancing, there are enough ‘escape programmes’ in February, from concerts, exhibitions and operas to the best Faschingskrapfen . See also my tips for the seasonal best day trips from Vienna. If you plan to attend a concert, find out in Vienna concerts which best to choose.

1. Dance At   Vienna Balls

Things to do in Vienna February 2024. The first half of February is the busiest time for Vienna Balls, until the official ball season ends with Shrove Tuesday on 21st February. Although tickets for the Vienna Opera Ball , Europe’s most glamorous and top socialite ball, have sold out, there are a few equally elegant alternatives. Even better, because they usually go under the radar of international tourism you will get to mingle more with local Viennese.

For further information on other February balls, visit  best Vienna balls .

2. Attend Elegant  Classical Operas

Other than that, classical opera lovers can choose between evergreens such as Mozart’s Magic Flute and Donizetti’s Anna Bolena . Access the opera programme for February.

3. Join A  Guided Night Walk

This tour highlights Vienna’s dark side. We have lots of dramatic looking places, stories and legends that just come out so much better at night. You’ll learn about the flip side of key landmarks like the Imperial Palace and explore hidden alleys like Blutgasse (‘blood alley’) in the city centre. Find out more about the  Vienna Night Walk .

4. Immerse Yourself Into Mozart

Opening Times: Monday to Friday 10.00 am to 8.00pm; Saturday and Sunday 10.00am to 6.00 pm Location: Kärntner Strasse 19 / STEFFL department store Tickets: from EUR 18 

5. Spend A Fabulous Valentine’s Day

Whether you choose a chocolate massage, a sparkly bubbly horse carriage ride or laughing your socks off at amazing illusions of yourselves. Or simply find a hidden bolthole for a lovely Austrian dinner in stylish privacy.

Find out how to utterly impress and have a memorable time in What To Do In Vienna For Valentine’s Day .

6. Experience Vienna Folk And International Music At The Accordion Festival

Things to do in Vienna February 2024. Between 25th February and 26th March, art project coordinator Friedl Preisl invites dozens of local and international accordion geniuses to celebrate the best of European folk music making. Specifically, the Accordion Festival features classical to contemporary, and folk to jazz. Starting from accordions producing Vienna Schrammel music hear tunes from different parts of the world. Learn more in Vienna Music Festival.

7. Take Viennese Waltz Dance Lessons

Things to do in Vienna February 2024. Even if you don’t attend a Vienna ball, waltz dancing is fun, a great acitivity to do with your other half, and a skill that you can use at other dancing events such as wedding parties or dance teas. There are  English language dance instructors  who can teach you the basic waltz steps in just one hour. Read more in  Viennese waltz dance lessons .

8. Venture Out for A Day Trip

All four of them are also full of museums, castles and palaces, and cosy cafes, so you have a vast choice of indoor activities. Learn more about  day trips from Vienna .

9. Taste A Faschingskrapfen

You will find Faschingskrapfen in all good local bakeries. They are filled with apricot jam or custard. The best are fluffy with a crispy surface and have a well visible injection hole on the side. (Connoisseurs localise it first and bite straight into it to avoid jam disasters.)

10. Other Free Things to do in Vienna February

Each year, Vienna’s International Tour Guide Day chooses a different theme.

Date and Time : 19th February 2024 (TBC) Meeting point : Upper Belvedere, Prinz Eugen Strasse 27, 1030 Vienna

Check what to do during January and March:

January:   Things to do in Vienna, January March:  Things to do in Vienna, March

Find a great tour in my shortlist of the best Vienna Tours

Need help? visit  Vienna Travel Planning – Trip Planning and Travel Consulting by Vienna Unwrapped

explore more  Vienna Attractions  – Guide to Hotspots and Insider Tips visit  Visit Vienna  – 20 Free Vacation Tools and Travel Tips

go to Vienna Tourism Calendar back to Vienna Unwrapped homepage

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12 fun things to do in Austria in winter if you don’t ski

October 4, 2021 | Posted in: Austria

When I say “Austria in winter” you automatically think of skiing or snowboarding, right? It's true that there are tons of great slopes and ski resorts in Austria , but even if you don't like going up and down a hill the entire day, there's still plenty for you to do in the country of “The Sound of Music”.

When I was In Austria in January for 3 days with 14 other bloggers, we were divided into 3 groups every day and each group would go try out other winter activities. Here's what I did and what you can do too on your vacation to Austria in the winter.

1. Play in the snow

2. visit a husky ranch, 3. go hiking, 4. visit the pilgrimage church of mariastein, 5. go (off-track) cross-country skiing, 6. taste the food of austria, 7. try your hand (leg/arm) at biathlon, 8. wander through the mountain villages, 9. take a horse carriage ride in sankt johann, 10. attend a schnapps tasting, 11. do a toboggan run in kirchberg, 12. snuggle up with a book in your hotel room, 1. what to do in austria in november, 2. what to do in austria in december, 3. what to do in austria in january, 4. what to do in austria in february, 4. what to do in austria in march, how to get to austria, don't forget travel insurance, fun things to do in austria in winter for your next trip.

I swear, it turned all of us into little kids again. We were pushing each other and instead of taking the cleared paths, we'd take shortcuts through thick packs of snow. And then, of course, fall down and giggle.

So when does it snow in Austria? When is winter in Austria? It depends on where you go. In the valleys, it usually snows from late December until March, but once you go above about 5,905 ft or 1,800 m, there's snow as early as November until May. Some years, the snow doesn't even melt once you get above 8,202 ft or 2,500 m.

If you want to make sure you'll experience a real Austrian winter, January is probably the best month to go. Just make sure you wear the right things so you don't get cold or wet and you can properly enjoy the experience.  

It was truly inspiring to hear how owner Martin Eigentler only left his huskies once a year, to travel to Canada and Alaska in search for new husky pups for his ranch.  

Not all paths are cleared of snow, of course, but there are plenty of hiking opportunities in and around the small villages. We made a nice walk from Hotel Kraftquelle Schlossblick , where we had lunch after visiting the husky ranch, to the pilgrimage church of Mariastein.  

People still climb the 150 steps to the chapel to go to mass but can rest in one of the several rooms along the way up, of which one is a small museum.

It's one of the places to visit in Austria in winter in this region, as the pilgrims usually visit when the weather's warmer. January is low season for this little church and so it won't be too crowded.  

© Traveldudes.org

Basically, it's all about how much you weigh and not about how tall you are.

Now, while cross-country skiing is one of those typical things to do during an Austria winter vacation, it's actually much harder than it looks – especially when you're trying to get up a hill! We all did pretty okay on the flat parts and also had no trouble sliding down that one hill, but climbing it with cross-country skis on, that was something else.

Let's just say there were a lot of giggles and not all of us managed to stay upright :-)  

Yes, a dessert. What did you expect?

You can read more about the food of Austria in another post.  

Biathlon is a sport that combines cross-country skiing and shooting, but biathlon targets aren't like the regular round targets you may have in mind. The ones we practiced on, consisted out of a box with six holes and if you hit one of the holes, a little “flap” would close it so you could tell you'd hit it.

We practiced on children's targets which are only about 10 meters away. The pros shoot 50 meters far. This was probably one of my favorite things to do in Austria in winter.  

Just one thing to know if you plan on doing a carriage ride in Austria in winter: if you get out to take photos, you'll be so much colder afterward!  

I very rarely drink alcohol, and when I do it's usually something that tastes like orange juice or lemonade: the sweeter, the better. Schnapps isn't anything like that, but when you're in Austria, there's no escaping it. Schnapps is like the national 40% alcohol drink.

Edelbrandsommelier Leo Trixl made sure everybody enjoyed the tasting, though. He first let us guess all kinds of different scents before we started the actual Schnapps tasting (and smelling).  

Was it because I was dark? I don't know.

For the sled ride, I partnered up with the wonderful Lisa from TVB Hohe Salve and we giggled our way smoothly down the mountain. I do have to admit I was happy I could sled down with her. The combination of heights and speed will never be for me.

On another note, if you're looking for great snowy views, the Gaisberg is one of the best places to visit in Austria in winter because it has a restaurant and hotel, the Gasthof Obergaisberg, right alongside the toboggan track. That means you can toboggan down for a bit, then take a break at the restaurant and then sled further down. It's even a good place to visit in summer when you can mountain bike and hike on the Gaisberg.

Make sure to reserve a table by the window for amazing views of the mountain!  

If the cold does get to you at one point, just snuggle up with a book in your hotel room or at the bar, with a nice cup of tea and – let's go crazy – some cake. There are so many lovely hotels in Austria to choose from, from small bed and breakfasts to luxury half or even full-board places.

And if you want to keep in theme while reading, these books about Austria will both entertain you and teach you something new.  

And that's not all you can do in Austria in winter. Other people went snowshoeing, fat biking or did a Segway ride through the snow . And if you're visiting a city, you can get your culture on. Learning the Viennese Waltz or visiting museums in Vienna , for example, is something you can do all-year-long.

Already know when you're going to visit Austria in winter? Here's a list of events per month.  

What to do in Austria in winter per month

Here are some fun things to do in Austria in November:

At the end of November, the award-winning Fantastic Gondolas festival takes place at the mountain station of Rüfikopf in Lech Zürs, where international DJs and light installations create a festive vibe.

For another musical event, head to Ischgl where a “top of the mountain concert” is organized at the end of November.

Be aware: the weather in Austria in November is definitely winter weather already so do pack accordingly.

If you want to get into the Christmas mood early, one of the best places to visit in Austria in November is Vienna. There, the Christmas markets already start in the middle of the month. Popular ones take place at the Rathausplatz, Karlsplatz, Schönbrunn, and Belvedere.  

Visiting a Christmas market is also one of the things to do in Austria in December. While a lot of bigger markets already start in the second half of November, they're in full swing in December. Visit the market between the mountains in Innsbruck, the famous Christmas markets of Vienna, or the cozy market in Salzburg.

Looking for more places to visit in Austria in December? For family snow fun, you can head to the Family Ski Festival in Styria and for something more intense, there's the Nordic Ski World Cup in Ramsau am Dachstein.

In Montafon, the FIS Snowboard Cross World Cup and the Audi FSI Ski Cross World Cup take place while wine lovers van visit the Alberg Vineyard in Lech Zürs for a week-long wine festival.

The Rave on Snow in Saalbach-Hinterglemm is an annual electronic music winter festival that takes place in the middle of December.

Also taking place the middle of December is the Rise&Fall sporting event in Mayerhofen. During Rise&Fall, teams compete in 4 different sport activities: ski mountain climbing, paragliding, mountain biking, and skiing.

If you're spending New Year's in Vienna, consider joining the Silversterpfad. This “New Year's Eve Path” is basically a big street party with several open air concerts.

Now, do you still don't know where to go in Austria in December? :-)  

Yes, there's New Year's and the end of the holiday season but there are plenty more cool things to do in Austria in January. You could attend, for example, not one but two hot air balloon weeks. One in Gosau near the end of the month and one in Mauterndorf around the middle of the month.

Rather stay inside when it's cold? Then there's always the music festival 3 Days Jazz in Saalfelden. Ski lovers attend the internationally known White Ring ski race in Lech Zürs.

In Kitzbühel they organize the Hahnenkammrennen and in Schladming the Slalom Night Race. For fans of classical music, there's the Mozart Week in Salzburg.  

In the beginning of February, the Tiroler Kaslauf takes place in St. Johann in Tirol. It's a race for cross country skiirs.

You can also visit the Ötscher Erlebniswochen winter festival in Lackenhof for a wide range of winter activities or go see the snowmen during The Snowman Weekend at the Hochkar ski resort.  

At the end of the ski and snow season in Austria, there's a “Nostalgia Ski Race” that takes place on the Feuerkogel mountain in Ebsensee. The Tanzcafé Arlberg Music Festival announces spring at the end of the month with music performances outdoors, in ski huts and at hotel bars.  

Still not sold on winter? Check out these places to visit in Austria in summer instead.  

Depending on where in Austria you're going, the easiest way to get there will be by plane, train or car. If you're traveling to a big city like Vienna or Salzburg, you can fly there directly or take a train from a nearby city, but if you're traveling to the mountains, you'll need to take a shuttle or rent a car.

Check Skyscanner for a good overview of flight options and prices.

If you're traveling by train, you can find timetables and prices here .

For a rental car, check RentalCars.com as they compare more than 900 rental car companies and have a best-price-guarantee.  

Plan for the best, prepare for the worst. Travel insurance has you covered in case (part of) your trip gets canceled, you get sick or hurt abroad, and sometimes even when your electronics break or get stolen. I always make sure I'm covered on every trip I go on.

Don't have travel insurance yet? Check out SafetyWing. They offer super flexible plans that you can even sign up for while you're already on your trip. On top of that, they were the first travel insurance to cover COVID, and when I got COVID, they reimbursed all of my expenses without making a fuss. Their customer support team is great and I can personally recommend them.  

I was invited on the #inAustria trip by iambassador in partnership with the Austrian National Tourist Office. As always, anything I write about this trip will be my opinion only.

The editorial team at Wonderful Wanderings brings together travel experts with backgrounds in travel writing, web development and digital marketing. The team, through their collaborative effort, provides readers with relevant travel experiences and up-to-date digital content. The vast expertise within the team ensures an informative blend of travel stories and useful online travel guides and trip experiences, built on a foundation of both industry recognition and hands-on global adventures. Learn more about Wonderful Wanderings

The Guy Who Flies says

Fabulous selection Sofie, it looks like you all had great fun. I know Austria has some wonderful villages and scenery so that would please me no end. I would also like the huskies, biathlan and tobogganing too.

Thanks! We really did :-)

I am really proud of you that you fought against you fear! Tobogganing with you was a lot of fun :)

Oooh, thanks so much Lisa! We made a great team:D

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• Austria In Winter 2024: Visit These 10 Places In The Land Of Beauty And Music

23 Mar 2023

At times when you snuggle your bed sheet around you and hold up the coffee mug tight in your hands, you will sometimes think to visit some amazing places. But how could a place look beautiful during the cold months of winter? Just take a look at the best experiences of Austria in winter and plan a vacation to this serene destination, offering your a perfect chance to have the best time with your loved ones!

10 Best Places To Visit In Austria In Winter

Planning a vacation to Austria during winter ? These places add up a lot of beauty to this country even when covered with snow. On your trip, here are a few places to visit in Austria in winter:

• Vienna: Fabulous Capital City
• Oberaichwald: Rural Gateway
• Wildschönau: Panoramic Sights
• Gosau: High Peaked Mountains
• Zell Am See: Snowy Landscapes
• Thermenland Styria: Dreamland Vacay
• Aqua Dome: For The Water Babies
• Salzburg: Nothing Less Than Paradise
• Ski Resort Kitzbuehel: Adventure Seekers
• Innsbruck: Serene Ambiance

1.  Vienna: Fabulous Capital City

Image Source

The first place we are talking about in Vienna. Without any sort of doubt, this is one of the most fabulous capital cities you could visit. And in this place, everything related to Christmas is taken a lot more serious. When it is snowy outside, if you just go out, you will probably be stunned by the beauty of the street. There are many amazing things to do in Vienna and you could enjoy doing at this place. And without any doubt, this place will stand in the first place if you would like to go on a tour or something like that. The place is known to offer the best vacations during Austria winter season .

Must Read: 10 Austrian Restaurants One Must Visit To Relish The Taste Of Authentic Austrian Delicacies!

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2.  Oberaichwald: Rural Gateway

This is probably the place which you must visit if you go to Austria in winter. You will probably like this place if you would like a rural gateway. And when you are in this place you will surely feel yourself out of the pollution as well as the sound in the city. If you are in places like this in Austria in winter you will compulsorily get an energy boost with being away from the city. And whenever you are lighting up places filled with snow the scenery of it will surely blow up your minds. This will also help you enjoy your winter months in Austria. This is one of the most loved Austria winter destinations.

Suggested Read: 9 Things To Do In Hallstatt For A Memorable Trip In Austria

3.  Wildschönau: Panoramic Sights

This place however fabulous in all times of the year, but when it comes to the cold winter months you will probably have no words to describe the beauty of this place. People cannot express the beauty and even if they do you will not understand it. You can only get to know it once you visit this magical place. The place is known to offer the most beautiful holiday during Austria winter season . If you find a high place and see all the city in the cold winter temperature in Austria it will for sure leave you stunned as well as the mind was blown.

Suggested Read: 10 Rivers In Austria That Will Bowl You Over With Their Beauty

4.  Gosau: High Peaked Mountains

The most beautiful place you can enjoy is probably this place for sure. You get many activities like the hot air balloon week and other stuff like that. This area is one that is amazingly covered with large areas of forests and is also surrounded by the high peaked mountains. This area also has a hot a balloon week going on every week. Every single activity going on around here will be totally awesome as well as enjoyable. And not only for adults, but there is also stuff going on there for kids. Going to this in winter holidays in Austria for non-skiers can also be amazing. This is amongst the best winter destinations in Austria .

Suggested Read: 10 Hostels In Austria To Explore The Best Of The Country’s Mountains And Cities

5.  Zell Am See: Snowy Landscapes

This is a lakeside town that has a lot of tour-worthy locations in it that only exist in winter. The snowy mountains and also the houses filled with snow from the outside look gorgeous. And this is also a place where you can ski if you know it. Yes, but if you don’t have any idea about it then don’t worry because there are many activities that can be done without knowing to ski also. So, it is never mandatory in a place to know skiing for anyone. And this place will also give you a breath-taking experience of each and everything. This is surely one of the best places to visit in Austria in winter.

6.  Thermenland Styria: Dreamland Vacay

So, this place shown here is a wonderful example for the places that are very wonderful to look at and also a bit weird sometimes. But this does not happen every time. And taking a hot water bath in a hot spring with your friends and family could add up a special touch to everything out there. And when this experience is available when it is almost freezing cold outside, it would be the best thing ever. There are also many massage therapies and stuff you could enjoy here too.

Suggested Read: 10 Best Churches In Austria For Adding A Touch Of Bliss To Your EuroTrip!

7.  Aqua Dome: For The Water Babies

Looking for a perfect escape during winter season in Austria ? This is also one of the most awesome places you could visit in Austria. Without any doubt, this can also be said the best in the Alps. It also seems like an alien ship probably, it won’t seem to you? Well, it does to me. This is probably a very big place because it has 12 swimming pools in it. And the each one in them has different intensities. By on the whole when you talk about this place you could just take a drive to this place if you live nearby.

8.  Salzburg: Nothing Less Than Paradise

Heading to Austria in December 2022 ? This is the second to Vienna about which was told in the starting of the article probably it was the first thing we spoke about. And this is the best place to take a driving in Austria in winter if you live nearby. This place is also the which you can go for if you would like to see the best way of how Christmas is celebrated. This is amongst the best places in Austria in winter . The snow-tipped alps that are in the surrounding bring like a backdrop for some seasonal festivals. If you do ski then this place will have a lot of games like that too. Finally, you will never get time to be bored in this place for sure. It is one of the best places to spend winter holidays in Austria for non-skiers as there are numerous interesting things to do in Salzburg .

Suggested Read: 8 Magical Castles In Austria That Will Blow Your Mind In No Time!

9.  Ski Resort Kitzbuehel: Adventure Seekers

This is a ski resort which is probably not perfect for the ones who don’t ski. But we have to be including this just to make sure the ones who know to ski get benefitted by this article. This ski resort has 54 cable cars and lifts that probably make it the world largest ski resort. And it is also 2,000 meters above the sea level, not ground sea! This is totally such a large area that you can never make a round of. Sometimes there may be some other stuff going on here like some shows.

10. Innsbruck: Serene Ambiance

Image Source So, you are planning a trip to Austria but not visiting Innsbruck? Then, there is no bigger fool than you. Innsbruck is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Austria in December. Enjoy a cup of hot steaming gluhwein and indulge in festive spirits. You can even smell the fragrance of spicy scents in the air during the winter season. Buy trinkets and Christmas gifts from the Christmas fair and markets on your visit to Innsbruck. This is amongst the best places in Austria in winter .

Further Read: 10 Best Water Parks In Austria For A Soul-Stirring Holiday Experience!

These were all the places that will want to visit in Austria on your vacation . And we also think that this article has vanquished the question of where to go in Austria in winter? However, before heading to the place, do make sure you know enough about what to expect there and how soon you should book the reservation.

Disclaimer:   TravelTriangle claims no credit for images featured on our blog site unless otherwise noted. All visual content is copyrighted to its respectful owners. We try to link back to original sources whenever possible. If you own rights to any of the images and do not wish them to appear on TravelTriangle, please contact us and they will be promptly removed. We believe in providing proper attribution to the original author, artist or photographer.

Please Note:  Any information published by TravelTriangle in any form of content is not intended to be a substitute for any kind of medical advice, and one must not take any action before consulting a professional medical expert of their own choice.

Frequently Asked Questions About Austria In Winter

How cold is Austria in December?

The temperature in Austria in December is 3 degrees Celsius. So, yes it is cold but it is not as cold as Austria in January. The minimum temperature can go to zero degrees Celsius too. It is normal to have such low temperatures for countries in Central Europe.

Does it snow in Austria in December?

Yes, it snows in Austria during late December.

Which is the best month to visit Austria?

April – May and September – October are great months to visit Austria, but if one wants to enjoy skiing, then they can plan a trip during the winter season here.

Where should I stay in Austria in winter?

Some of the top winter destinations in Austria are: 1. Innsbruck 2. Vienna 3. Oberaichwald 4. Salzburg 5. Wildschönau

How many days should I spend in Austria?

With a couple of beautiful places to visit in Austria, one can plan a 10 days to 2 weeks trip depending on the number of cities they want to cover.

What is there to do in Salzburg in winter?

One of the things you can do in Salzburg during winter is: 1.Visit the Hohensalzburg Castle 2. Shop, eat, and drink at the famous Christmas markets in Salzburg 3. Follow the sound of music trail and know all about Mozart if you are a fan

Does Vienna get snow?

The temperature in December in Vienna is as low as zero degrees, and this is when one can enjoy snow in Vienna.

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Best Time to Visit Vienna: Month-by-Month Guide

By Alex Schultz · Last updated on April 3, 2024

Delightfully known as the ‘City of Dreams’, Austria’s cultured capital Vienna is a lovely place to visit, full of amazing art, history, architecture and music. While both summertime and the Christmas holidays are the peak season, spring and autumn are also popular times to go due to the decent weather.

Aside from the beginning of the year when the city is cold, grey and drizzly, each month sees large numbers visit Vienna’s historical palaces, museums and coffee houses. Besides exploring the center, many come to attend one of the world-famous classical music concerts or opera performances.

To help you plan an unforgettable trip to this enchanting city, let’s now take a look month-by-month at what the weather, crowds and cultural events are like in Vienna.

What’s the weather like in Vienna?

Spanning both sides of the Danube River, Vienna has a humid continental climate with warm, sunny, wet summers and cold, dry winters. Snow also falls during the coldest period of the year but it doesn’t remain for long.

In July and August, the hottest months, temperatures average around 25 to 26°C (77 to 79°F) with the nights sometimes dropping below freezing in December and January. While spring and autumn are both quite unpredictable weatherwise, their blooming flowers and beautiful foliage attract many to the capital.

Despite each month seeing between 9 and 14 days with at least some rainfall, the city isn’t particularly rainy. Things do get quite windy though as it lies in the Vienna Basin surrounded by endless plains, fields and forests.

Best months to visit Vienna

As the weather is warmest and the days are longest, the summer months are when most people visit Vienna . Although the high temperatures are perfect for wandering about the center or relaxing in its parks, prices are at their highest with large crowds also milling about.

As such, the best time to visit Vienna is in either spring or autumn when things are slightly calmer and cheaper. The opera houses have plenty of performances to catch and lots of fun festivals and events also taking place. Averages of around 15 to 21°C (59 to 70°F) are still comfortable for strolling around and enjoying outdoor activities.

December is yet another hugely popular month as the cold, dark days and cheery Christmas decorations create a magical atmosphere. Besides spending time in its grand coffee houses, you can also take part in its glamorous balls and gigantic New Year’s Eve celebrations.

Vienna in January

Once Christmas and the city’s famous New Year’s Day Concert are over, January is one of the quietest months in town. Aside from being very cold, averaging just 2°C (35°F), the capital only sees 2 hours of sunshine a day. The freezing rain and wind also make spending much time outside unpleasant!

If you wrap up warm though, you can still have a nice time, especially if it snows. Its lovely buildings and parks look even more spectacular, all coated in white. Prices are also cheaper and there are no queues at any of its museums. You can also watch Die Fledermaus at the State Opera or Volksoper – a popular tradition – or waltz the night away at one of the balls.

Vienna in February

As it is very similar weatherwise to January, February in Vienna is also the low season when most people stay away. The gloomy days and drizzle aren’t great for sightseeing with the wind and ice also making things a bit challenging. On the plus side, the hotel prices and airfares are at their lowest.

To avoid the bad weather, you’ll want to visit one of the many museums and palaces or sit and soak up the atmosphere in one of its elegant coffee houses. As there are so few crowds, February is a good month to see an epic opera or its dancing horses. Besides this, ball season is still going on with many also hitting the slopes at ski resorts or ice skating in front of City Hall.

Vienna in March

While the weather finally starts to warm up a bit in March, with temperatures rising to 10°C (50°F), tourist numbers remain quite low. There may be more people and specialty markets around though depending on when Easter falls. For the most part, however, crowds and prices are more manageable than later in the year.

With a couple more hours of sunshine and daylight, you can amble about the city center or examine all the freshly blooming buds in its parks. There is also less chance of snow and the skies are clearer. In addition, the long-running Vienna Blues Spring Festival has hundreds of amazing concerts for you to attend.

Vienna in April

As temperatures soar to 16°C (61°F) and people have holidays, April sees huge numbers of visitors pour into Vienna. While both the prices and crowds increase, the city is nowhere near as full as in summer or around Christmas. Spring has definitely arrived and all the parks are looking a lot greener.

Aside from catching a classical concert or opera, you can cheer contestants on at the Vienna Marathon or even run yourself! April is the ideal month to take day trips to both Bratislava and Budapest before they also get overrun and more expensive in the summer.

Vienna in May

Although it is a bit wetter, May is another massively popular month for visiting Vienna . With averages of 20°C (68°F), you can either stroll around the center or hike and bike about the Vienna Woods . The longer, sunny days are also great for sitting at outdoor cafes or relaxing in its pretty green parks.

While prices are higher and there are more crowds, its main sights and museums aren’t yet too busy. Due to the warm weather, it is worth taking a scenic cruise along the Danube River or visiting some of the wonderful wineries in the Wachau Valley. Countless culinary events are held all around town while hundreds of concerts and exhibitions take place for the five-week-long Vienna Festival that continues into June.

Vienna in June

Other than attending some of the Vienna Festival’s dance, theatre and film productions, you can party and listen to live acts at the Danube Island Festival. Other popular events include the two-week-long Vienna Pride and the highly regarded Jazz Festival. This is also the last month you can watch world-famous operas before the summer break.

June also has the most hours of daylight in the year – 16 – with temperatures of about 23°C (73°F) being perfect for sightseeing. It is also the rainiest month, however, so it’s well worth bringing an umbrella! While everywhere is quite busy and expensive, there is a lovely, lively feel about the city.

Vienna in July

Due to the sunshine, holidays and hot temperatures of 26°C (79°F), July is the peak season in Vienna. The warm weather and blue skies are ideal for hiking in the verdant parks and woods or splashing around in the river. Make sure to take a jacket though as it rains 13 days on average.

While Vienna has an exciting buzz about it in July, prices are higher and long queues form at its main tourist attractions and for the Prater’s many fun amusement rides. Both its dancing horses and opera houses take a break for the summer. There is always something going on though as Rathausplatz hosts huge film screenings and an international food court.

Vienna in August

August is even more crowded with average temperatures remaining high. Besides sitting at one of its outdoor cafes enjoying the capital’s architecture and ambience, you can cool off in the Danube or the Vienna Woods. As many Viennese take their holidays and head off, there aren’t normally too many locals around.

While the opera houses are still on their summer break, there are of course outdoor film screenings to see in Rathausplatz. The colourful Afrika Tage festival also creates a wonderful atmosphere with all its concerts and cultural events as does its International Dance Festival. Although the days are a bit shorter and there is still quite a bit of rain, August is by far the most popular month to visit Vienna.

Vienna in September

Once the summer holidays are over and the kids are back at school, the crowds slowly start to dwindle. While flights are cheaper, accommodation prices remain relatively high. As it is the harvest season, this is one of the best months to take tours of its wineries and cruise along the Danube River .

With clear skies and temperatures still in the low 20s (70s), conditions are great for walking around Vienna’s plentiful parks and palaces. The attractive autumnal foliage also creates some fantastic photo opportunities. Tons of terrific art, food and film festivals are also held around the city while astounding operas are once again put on at the opulent opera houses .

Vienna in October

October is another popular month to visit Vienna as the glittering golden colors of its trees make the streets, parks and green spaces look so picturesque. As well as being much calmer and cheaper than summertime, it is generally much drier though endless drizzle does tend to set in towards the end of the month.

While average temperatures remain a comfortable 15°C (59°F), the skies are often quite overcast and cloudy. The center is way less crowded though with its Long Night of Museums event being an excellent opportunity to see some of its many interesting exhibitions. This is also a great month to attend operas or some of the Spanish Riding School’s performances.

Vienna in November

Aside from January, February and March, November is by far the quietest month in Vienna when most people stay away. Spending time outside is less pleasant as the days are darker, colder and wetter. To avoid the bleak weather, explore the many museums or sit and soak up the ambience in one of the historic coffee houses.

If you don’t mind the rain and wrapping up warm, then hotel prices and airfares are very affordable. Halfway through the month, cheery holiday decorations are strung up all around town with Christmas markets also setting up here and here.

Vienna in December

Despite the dark, cold and wind, December sees huge numbers of visitors pour into Vienna for the festive season. Other than ambling around the many Christmas markets, you can waltz to wonderful orchestras at some of the elegant balls.

As temperatures drop to just 3°C (37°F), you’ll have to layer up whenever you head outside with snow sometimes falling when the weather is particularly cold. Due to the crowds, prices are higher with hotels and restaurants packed. In addition to celebrating Christmas here, you can welcome in the New Year at one of the stages and markets set up around town.

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Things to do in Vienna in February

Navigate forward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

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Looking for a different month?

February is a less popular time to visit Vienna . The weather is usually really cold and breezy, with temperatures ranging from 26—40°F (-3—5°C). There are plenty of events to check out and activities to try in Vienna during this time. Some of our top recommendations: attend the Vienna Opera Ball, take a horse-drawn carriage ride through the city, explore the Naschmarkt, and more!

Vienna has plenty to offer for visitors of all ages and interests. In this article, we tell you the top things to see and do for your February trip to Vienna. Get inspired by the events, activities, attractions, and experiences unique to February. We’ll let you know where to explore events based on your interests, whether that’s food, culture, art, music, sport or others.

We’ll let you know everything you need to prepare for the weather in Vienna in February. Learn about what to wear and pack for your trip, the average temperatures throughout February, temperature changes from morning to evening and much more.

Table of contents

• Experiences
• Weather and what to wear
• Attractions

Best events and things to do in Vienna in February

Top experiences in february, attend the vienna opera ball, take a horse-drawn carriage ride through the city, explore the naschmarkt, visit the belvedere palace, visit the schönbrunn palace gardens, take a day trip to the vienna woods, attend the vienna ice dream, holidays in vienna in february.

There are no holidays in Vienna in February

Other notable holidays

• New Year's Day ( January 1 )
• Epiphany ( January 6 )
• Palm Sunday ( April 13 )
• Good Friday ( April 18 )
• Easter Sunday ( April 20 )
• Easter Monday ( April 21 )
• Labor Day / May Day ( May 1 )
• Mothers' Day ( May 11 )
• Ascension Day ( May 29 )
• Whit Sunday ( June 8 )
• Fathers' Day ( June 8 )
• Whit Monday ( June 9 )
• Corpus Christi ( June 19 )
• Weather in Vienna in February

Temperatures on an average day in Vienna in February

The average temperature in Vienna in February for a typical day ranges from a high of 40°F (5°C) to a low of 26°F (-3°C). Some would describe it as really cold and breezy.

For comparison, the hottest month in Vienna , August, has days with highs of 81°F (27°C) and lows of 59°F (15°C). The coldest month, January has days with highs of 36°F (2°C) and lows of 24°F (-4°C). This graph shows how an average day looks like in Vienna in February based on historical data.

Visiting Vienna? See our Vienna Trip Planner.

Historical temperature average in February

General weather summary, what to wear in february, best attractions for vienna in february.

Top searches in Vienna

Popular road trips from vienna, what's the weather like in vienna.

It depends on when you visit! We've compiled data from NASA on what the weather is like in Vienna for each month of the year: see the links below for more information.

• Weather in Vienna in January
• Weather in Vienna in March
• Weather in Vienna in April
• Weather in Vienna in May
• Weather in Vienna in June
• Weather in Vienna in July
• Weather in Vienna in August
• Weather in Vienna in September
• Weather in Vienna in October
• Weather in Vienna in November
• Weather in Vienna in December

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Explore nearby places

• Langenzersdorf
• Stammersdorf
• Klosterneuburg
• Rannersdorf
• Gerasdorf bei Wien
• Perchtoldsdorf
• Brunn am Gebirge
• Maria Enzersdorf
• Wiener Neudorf
• Kritzendorf
• Breitenfurt bei Wien
• Maria Gugging
• Hinterbruhl
• Deutsch Wagram
• St. Andrae-Woerdern
• Greifenstein
• Guntramsdorf
• Gumpoldskirchen

All related maps of Vienna

• Map of Vienna
• Map of Voesendorf
• Map of Langenzersdorf
• Map of Stammersdorf
• Map of Schwechat
• Map of Klosterneuburg
• Map of Rannersdorf
• Map of Gerasdorf bei Wien
• Map of Perchtoldsdorf
• Map of Brunn am Gebirge
• Map of Bisamberg
• Map of Maria Enzersdorf
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Vienna throughout the year

• Vienna in January
• Vienna in February
• Vienna in March
• Vienna in April
• Vienna in May
• Vienna in June
• Vienna in July
• Vienna in August
• Vienna in September
• Vienna in October
• Vienna in November
• Vienna in December

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Austria weather in February

Planning a getaway to Austria this February and curious about the weather you should prepare for? Discover all the vital details you need on this page, solving your puzzle:

What is the weather like in Austria in February?

The weather in Austria in February can be quite varied, with temperatures that range from very cold to cold and precipitation levels ranging from moderate to high. During February, winter is in full swing.

The average highest temperatures fluctuate between very cold in Matrei in Osttirol at -3°C to cold in Bad Radkersburg at 8°C . Nighttime temperatures generally drop to -2°C in Bad Radkersburg and -11°C in Matrei in Osttirol .

In February, precipitation varies across different areas. From moderate snow/rainfall in Mitterretzbach with an average of 32 mm to high snow/rainfall in Sibratsgfäll with 126 mm . In Vienna , this particular month consistently records the lowest levels of rainfall, making it the driest period throughout the entire year. The city Vienna usually sees around 100 hours of sunlight, indicating a moderately sunny period.

For specific regional insights in Austria for February, refer to the map provided below. For an in-depth overview of the yearly weather conditions, do visit our Austria climate page .

Where to go in Austria in February

Popular destinations

What is the weather like in February for the 5 most popular destinations in Austria?

In February Vienna generally has low temperatures with maximum daytime temperatures around 6°C , minimum nighttime temperatures around -2°C and moderate monthly snow/rainfall. So on average the conditions are poor that month.

In February Sölden generally has very low temperatures with maximum daytime temperatures around -2°C , minimum nighttime temperatures around -12°C and moderate monthly snowfall. So on average the conditions are poor that month.

Zell am See

In February Zell am See generally has very low temperatures with maximum daytime temperatures around 1°C , minimum nighttime temperatures around -8°C and high monthly snow/rainfall. So on average the conditions are poor that month.

Saalbach Hinterglemm

In February Saalbach Hinterglemm generally has very low temperatures with maximum daytime temperatures around 1°C , minimum nighttime temperatures around -8°C and high monthly snow/rainfall. So on average the conditions are poor that month.

Neustift im Stubaital

In February Neustift im Stubaital generally has very low temperatures with maximum daytime temperatures around -1°C , minimum nighttime temperatures around -10°C and moderate monthly snowfall. So on average the conditions are poor that month.

Is your destination not in the list? Have a look at other destinations in Austria .

Is February the best time to visit Austria?

Given the typically poor weather conditions in Vienna , February may not be the ideal time to visit Austria.

On average, the best time to visit Austria is in May , June , July , August and September with generally perfect weather in Vienna . In contrast, January , February , November and December tend to have poor weather conditions.

Interested in more climate information?

• January       
• February       
• March       
• April       
• May       
• June       
• July       
• August       
• September       
• October       
• November       
• December       

Weather and climate has detailed information for every country in the world. Are you going to Austria? Get detailed historical weather averages for many cities in Austria .

Not sure yet where to go? We now have a tool which recommends destinations that suit your ideal climate conditions. Find out where to go with our weather planner .