Although stately Vienna is wonderful in every season, in most travelers minds it is synonymous with Christmas. At this time of year, the Austrian capital is more captivating than ever.
Its impossible to visit Vienna at Christmas and not leave utterly smitten. At this time of year the radiant Austrian capital feels straight out of a fairytale. The charm of the Old Town, the festive decorations, the imposing palaces, the beautifully decorated Christmas markets, the melodies of Strauss and Mozart, warm, fragrant strudels and the historic Viennese cafés give the city a magical dimension.
Christmas in Vienna
The historic center
Take a long stroll through the Old Town (Innere Stadt), which remains the soul of Vienna. Encircled by the Ringstrasse, the citys emblematic ring boulevard, it encompasses some of the most popular sights, such as the famed Vienna State Opera, St. Stephens Cathedral (open to visitors and offering unique views over the city), the majestic Hofburg Palace (hereEmpress Sisi spent much of her life), the Albertina Museum and the Austrian National Library. On your walk youll see horse-drawn carriages, street performers, and famous Viennese cafés, while youll also come across plenty of quiet spots.
The fairytale Christmas markets
Viennas Christmas markets are an unforgettable holiday experience in their own right. One of the citys most famous Christmas markets is Vienna Magic of Advent, which transforms City Hall Square (Rathausplatz) into a fairytale scene. There are over 150 stalls where you can buy Christmas gifts and handmade ornaments, and sample hot drinks and local sweets. The trees with twinkling lights around the square, the impressive Christmas tree, festive melodies, the ice rink and the carousel complete the holiday experience. Christmas markets are also set up in front of Belvedere Palace, Maria Theresien Square, Freyung Square, Schönbrunn Palace, as well as in many other parts of the city.
The imposing Belvedere Palace
Dont miss the imposing Baroque Belvedere Palace, built in the 18th century by Prince Eugene as a summer residence and today isone of the citys most important sights.Beyond its beautiful gardens and impressive views of the city, it also has the largest collection of Klimts artworks, including the renowned painting «The Kiss».
The museum quarter
Stroll through the MuseumsQuartier, the remarkable museum complex that emerged in 2001, when the former imperial stables and the riding school were united. Visit the Leopold Museum with its rich collection of Viennese art from the 19th and 20th centuries, the Museum of Modern Art and the childrens museum Zoom. In the neighborhood youll find small shops for shopping, as well as bars and music venues.
Viennas iconic cafés
You cant go to Vienna and not visit one of the citys historic cafés. A true experience is a visit to Café Central, with its atmospheric Baroque hall with the huge portraits of Empress Sisi, as well as to the iconic Cafe Sacher to taste the delicious Sachertorte cake, Viennas most famous sweet.
