When is the Best Time to Visit Vienna?

Vienna is beautiful all year round, but when’s the best time to visit? That’s not so easy to answer, because honestly: it all depends on what you’re looking for. Do you prefer peace and quiet or do you crave action? Are you a summer person or more into cooler temperatures? Do you love being outdoors or are you more into museums and exhibitions?

In this post, I’ll help you get a better idea: I’ll show you how Vienna changes throughout the year, which highlights and events you can look forward to each month, and what kind of weather you might expect (just as a rough guide though, predicting the weather is never 100% reliable). At the end, I’ll also share my personal favorite season in Vienna. And let’s be honest, who says you can only visit Vienna once a year?

Tip: I’ve included a quick weather overview for each month. Of course, that’s just a general idea, the weather can vary quite a bit and change quickly. So make sure to check the forecast before your trip!

1. Vienna in Spring

When spring arrives, Vienna awakens from its winter sleep. Temperatures rise, the days get longer, and pink and white blossoms start appearing all over the city.

Spring highlights in Vienna

• Easter markets
• Magnolia and cherry blossom
• Lilac in bloom
• Tulip season
• Festivals like “Steiermark-Frühling” and the “Genussfestival”
• Outdoor café season begins
• Wine taverns (Heurige) in the vineyards

Tip: Looking for more spring inspiration? I’ve put together my favorite spring tips for Vienna.

March in Vienna

• Blossom season begins
  Early cherry blossoms and flowering purple-leaf plum trees can be spotted in places like Stadtpark or Setagayapark. Stunning magnolias brighten up the city, especially in Sigmund-Freud-Park in front of the Votivkirche or near the Stadtgartendirektion by Stadtpark. Depending on the weather, magnolias sometimes do not bloom until April.

Tip: Want to know exactly where to find the most beautiful blossom spots in Vienna? In my article, I’ll take you to the prettiest places.

• Steiermark Frühling (Styrian Spring)
  Styria comes to Rathausplatz (square in front of Vienna’s City Hall)! With culinary delights, a music program, over 100 exhibitors and tons of inspiration for your next trip.
  2026 dates: April 8 – 12.
• Free exhibition at Garden Palais Liechtenstein
  Every year in February and March, the palace opens its doors and showcases treasures from the princely collection. You’ll also get access to some of its stunning historic rooms.
• MQ Libelle
  The rooftop terrace of the Leopold Museum reopens after the winter break, offering fantastic views over the MuseumsQuartier.

• Easter Markets
  My favorite Easter markets are in front of Schönbrunn Palace and on Freyung square. There’s also another one at Am Hof, for example.
• Easter Market at Schloss Hof
  About an hour from Vienna, you’ll find not only a charming Easter market but also lots to see and do on the Schloss Hof grounds. I’ve shared more in my blog post full of tips for a great spring day trip.
• Reopening of the Hermesvilla and Otto Wagner Church at Steinhof
  From mid-March, both of these beautiful buildings are open for interior visits again.
• Prater
  Vienna’s amusement park kicks off the new season in mid-March. From then on, all rides and food stalls reopen.
• Apricot blossom in the Wachau
  Around 100,000 trees transform the Wachau region into a sea of white blossoms. In 2025, peak bloom started in early April, but depending on the weather, it can already happen in March. The apricot blossom webcam will show you exactly how things are looking. Just keep in mind: the bloom only lasts a few days!

Good to know

• Weather in March: Although April is known for being unpredictable, March in Vienna can bring just about anything weather-wise too. In 2025, there were a few beautiful warm days with around 15°C, perfect for finally putting away the winter coat. Just a week later, it turned cold and rainy again, and the warm jackets came back out. No matter how lovely the days are, mornings and evenings are definitely still chilly, and it can also feel quite cool in the shade.
• What to wear: Make sure to bring a warm jacket just in case, don’t be fooled by the sunshine, it’s often colder than it looks.

Tip: Layering is your best bet, that way you’re prepared for all kinds of weather.

• On the last Sunday in March, daylight saving time begins, clocks are set forward by one hour. That means one hour less sleep, but it stays light longer in the evening!
• Parks can still look a bit bare in March since many trees haven’t sprouted leaves yet. Tip: Tip: Even so, I find Burggarten already very lovely on a sunny day.
• Vienna’s magnificent fountains are often still covered or without water, which can be a bit disappointing for photos.

April in Vienna

• Easter markets
  The Easter markets stay open until Easter Monday:
  My favorite ones are the Easter market in front of Schönbrunn Palace and the one on Freyung square – just a few steps away, you’ll also find another market at Am Hof.
• Japanese Cherry Blossom
  The beautiful Japanese cherry trees turn Vienna pink! You’ll find especially stunning ones in Donaupark, in front of the Franz von Assisi Church, and along Hainburger Weg.
• Tulip Bloom
  Tulips are blooming all over Vienna too. My favorite tulip spots are the Blumengärten Hirschstetten and the park in front of Karlskirche.
• Lilac Bloom
  And while we’re talking about blossoms, lilac also adds splashes of purple throughout Vienna. I especially love the lilac at Heldenplatz, with the historic buildings in the background.

Tip: The lilac at St. Marx Cemetery is particularly beautiful.

• Wisteria
  The arched walkway in Schönbrunn Palace Park is the best place for your wisteria photos in Vienna, it usually blooms in April or May. Follow me on Instagram @lara.kristiin to find out exactly when the blooming starts!
  

• Vienna City Marathon
  Thousands of runners take part every year. In 2026, the race takes place on April 19.

Tip: On the day of the marathon, many parts of the city (like the Ringstraße) are closed for the runners. Even a few days before, tents and setups can slightly disrupt sightseeing.

• Heurigen season at Nussberg
  The Heurigen (wine taverns) at Nussberg reopen! Nothing beats sitting among the vineyards with a view over Vienna.
• All sights are coming out of winter break
  and the city’s fountains will also be turned back on over the course of the month.
• Apricot blossom in the Wachau
  In the mood for a day trip? The apricot trees in the Wachau start to bloom at the end of March or beginning of April. The apricot webcam will show you when it’s time. But don’t wait too long, the blossoms only last a few days!
  

Good to know:

• Weather in April: There’s a reason they say “April does what it wants”, the weather is very unpredictable this time of year. It can still be cool and unpleasant at times, but when the sun’s out, it can already feel like summer. So definitely check the forecast before you go out and be prepared for anything!
• What to wear: As always in April, you might need a coat one day and find a light jacket too warm the next. In general, I’d recommend packing a jacket and long pants, but also some light clothes. You usually won’t need winter boots or heavy winter gear anymore.
• Easter Monday is a public holiday in Austria, which means almost all shops will be closed. Good Friday, however, is not a public holiday.
• In early April, many trees are still bare, but as the month goes on, everything starts turning beautifully green.
• There aren’t quite as many tourists in Vienna yet as in summer, but you’ll notice that it does get busier around Easter.

May in Vienna

• Vienna Genussfestival
  From May 8 – 10, 2026, the Stadtpark turns into a foodie paradise. Over 100 stalls showcase regional specialties from all over Austria.
• Stefflkirtag
  Starting May 21, 2026, for 12 days, the square around St. Stephen’s Cathedral becomes a fairground with traditional crafts, delicious treats, and live music.
• Wisteria in Bloom
  In April or May, the wisteria covers the arcade next to Schönbrunn Palace in a stunning shade of purple. Tip: Follow me on Instagram @lara.kristiin to find out exactly when it starts blooming!
• Outdoor Pool Season
  Vienna’s outdoor pools traditionally open for the summer season in May, no matter what the weather’s like. One of the most beautiful spots is the Krapfenwaldbad, with its incredible view over the city.
• Enjoying the Outdoors
  May is a fantastic month to enjoy Vienna outside. Café gardens open up again, the parks are lush and green, and on some days it already feels like summer.
• Boating
  While boat rentals are available from April, now’s the perfect time to enjoy a boat ride on the Alte Donau.
• Theater im Park
  From the end of May to September, you can experience theater, comedy, music, and more at Theater im Park, set in a gorgeous park near Belvedere Palace.

Good to know:

• Weather in May: It’s often already quite warm and sometimes even hot during the day feeling like summer. However, the evenings and mornings can still be a bit cooler.
• Clothing: Light clothes are usually perfect for May, but I’d definitely bring a light jacket/transitional jacket, a pair of long pants, and something for the rain, just in case, as temperatures can drop quickly if it rains. Vienna is known for being quite windy and you’ll be happy to have an extra layer, especially in the early morning or later in the evening.
• May 1st and May 29th are public holidays in Austria. Almost all stores are closed on those days.

2. Vienna in summer

Vienna in summer is vibrant and full of energy. The days are long, the temperatures are rising (sometimes a bit too much), and there’s something happening all over the city! Outdoor festivals, after-work events, open-air cinemas, and rooftop bars let you enjoy summer to the fullest.

Summer highlights in Vienna

• Film Festival at Rathausplatz
• Rooftop bars
• Boating on the Old Danube
• Outdoor swimming pools
• Summer Night Concert at Schönbrunn
• Everything outdoors – cinema, opera, theatre

June in Vienna

• Enjoying Vienna outdoors
  June is the perfect time to enjoy Vienna outside, whether it’s a picnic in one of the city’s beautiful parks or by the Old Danube. You’ll also find plenty of lovely spots to sit and relax in Vienna’s many outdoor restaurants and traditional wine taverns (Heurige).
• Roses in Volksgarten
  In the heart of Vienna’s city center, thousands of roses bloom in every color and variety imaginable. Don’t miss this stunning floral display!
• Open-air cinemas
  The outdoor season really kicks off, for example with Vienna’s many open-air cinemas. “Kino am Dach” on the rooftop of the main library starts on June 1st, and “Kino wie noch nie” launches its new season on June 26th.
• Film Festival at Rathausplatz
  On June 28th, the Film Festival at Rathausplatz opens its doors. With free admission, you can enjoy an amazing mix of opera, pop, musical performances and more on a giant screen right in front of City Hall. A wide range of food stalls adds to the atmosphere. It’s a must for summer in Vienna!
• Summer Night Concert by the Vienna Philharmonic
  Classical music lovers can look forward to the famous Summer Night Concert by the Vienna Philharmonic on June 13th, held in front of Schönbrunn Palace. It’s also free of charge!

Good to know:

• Weather in June: Usually already summery and warm, sometimes even hot. The evenings are getting warmer too.
• What to wear: Summer clothes are generally enough, but I’d recommend bringing a light jacket just in case.
• June 9th and June 19th are public holidays in Austria, which means that most shops will be closed on those days.
• The days are wonderfully long, sunset is often around 9 pm! Perfect for making the most of your time in Vienna.

July in Vienna

• Vienna Opera Summer
  In July, you can watch La Traviata under the open sky at the Vienna Opera Summer at Heumarkt.
• Film Festival at Rathausplatz
  Throughout July, the Film Festival at Rathausplatz offers free admission, a daily program on the big screen featuring opera, musicals, pop, rock plus food from a wide variety of international food stalls.
• Donauinselfest
  Europe’s biggest open-air festival will take place from July 3rd to 5th in 2026. With 16 stages offering a colorful program, you can enjoy three days of concerts and entertainment completely free. The full program and artist lineup will be published in advance on the event’s official website.
• Open-air cinemas
  Vienna’s open-air cinemas continue showing films under the stars all through July.
• Summer evenings
  The evenings are beautifully warm and perfect for spending time outdoors at one of Vienna’s many summer locations: For example, a drink or dinner at Summerstage (I really like the Pizzeria Riva), strolling along the Donaukanal (my favorite spot here is Neni), or relaxing at Strandbar Herrmann for a beachy vibe. You can also enjoy a lovely summer evening at the University of Vienna’s campus.
• Heurige (wine taverns)
  Let’s not forget the many Heurigen! I find them especially charming in summer when you can sit outside. Great areas for that are Neustift am Walde, Grinzing, or Stammersdorf. I personally love the Heurigen at Nussberg, but be aware: some are only open on weekends there.
• Rooftop bars
  Warm summer evenings are perfect for rooftop bars and enjoying a drink with a view over Vienna. Some favorites include the Aurora Rooftop Bar and Dachboden.

Good to know:

• Weather in July: Typically very hot and summery including warm evenings and nights.
• What to wear: Light summer clothing is usually enough. A very light jacket in case of rain, swimwear if you plan to go boating or swimming, and a hat or cap for sun protection.
• July can get quite hot, and sightseeing in the city can be a bit exhausting during the peak heat.
• Tap water in Vienna is of excellent quality, perfect for staying hydrated. There are around 1,600 free drinking fountains spread throughout the city, and you’ll also find cooling mist showers to refresh yourself.
• Air conditioning isn’t as common in Vienna as it is in other countries. Museums, shopping malls, and big hotels usually have it, but many cafés, apartments and shops might not.
• July is peak tourist season, so the city can get quite crowded.
• I hate to disappoint you but if you’re planning a visit to the Vienna State Opera, unfortunately, it’s closed in July and August. The Volksoper and Burgtheater are also on summer break.
• Musicals also take a break during July and August.
• If you still want to see an opera performance, how about a day trip to St. Margarethen in Burgenland for the Oper im Steinbruch?

August in Vienna

• Neustifter Kirtag
  The traditional Neustifter Kirtag brings dirndls and lederhosen to Vienna from August 21st to 24th. The street between the wine taverns in Neustift am Walde becomes a pedestrian zone, with music, grilled chicken, and a great atmosphere.
• Film Festival Rathausplatz
  You can still visit the Film Festival at Rathausplatz in August. The program ranges from opera and musicals to pop, admission is free.
• Open-Air Cinemas
  Just like the open-air cinemas, where you can watch films under the open sky.
• Boating
  How about a little boat ride? Along the Alte Donau, there are plenty of boat rental stations. You can choose between electric boats or pedal boats and enjoy a few sunny hours on the water. There are also beautiful grassy areas along the Alte Donau and, what I love most, wooden docks that give you that vacation feeling.
• Outdoor Swimming Pools
  Of course, there are also outdoor swimming pools to cool off, like the Krapfenwaldbad, which offers an amazing view over Vienna.
• Museum Visit
  Is your city walk getting too hot? Many of Vienna’s museums are pleasantly air-conditioned and offer not only incredible exhibitions but also a nice break from the summer heat.
• Summer Evenings
  For inspiration on where to spend beautiful summer evenings (or afternoons), check out points 4 to 6 of the July section.

Good to know:

• The weather in August: August is usually the hottest month in Vienna. Expect lots of sunshine and very warm evenings and nights.
• What to wear: Light summer clothing is perfect for August as well. Bring a light jacket in case it rains. Just like in July, I recommend packing swimwear if you want to go swimming or take a boat ride on the Alte Donau. Don’t forget a hat or other sun protection.
• Just like in July, don’t underestimate the heat in August, sightseeing can be quite exhausting.
• Most theaters, including the State Opera, the Volksoper, and musical venues, are still closed in August. If you’re looking for cultural experiences, you’ll need to check out summer theaters like Theater im Park or various events outside Vienna, or enjoy the Film Festival at Rathausplatz.
• August is also a peak tourist season in Vienna, so be prepared for crowds and longer waiting times, especially in the city center.
• August 15 is a public holiday in Austria, meaning that practically all shops will be closed on this day.

3. Vienna in Autumn

The temperatures become more pleasant, yet still nice enough to spend time outdoors. The leaves change color, and everything gets wonderfully cozy.

Autumn Highlights in Vienna

• Vienna Wine Hiking Day
• Long Night of Museums
• Kaiser Wiesn
• Visit to Pumpkin Farmers
• Pumpkin Festival at Himmel
• Opening of Christmas Markets

September in Vienna

• Kaiser Wiesn at Prater
  In September, it’s time to bring out your dirndl and lederhosen again as Vienna celebrates its own version of Oktoberfest: the Kaiser Wiesn in the Prater. From September 25 to October 12, the event offers free entry to the festival grounds.
• Austrian Heritage Day (Tag des Denkmals)
  On September 28, you can take part in a great free event: Heritage Day, when monuments that are normally closed or only partly accessible open their doors to the public. Be sure to check the program in advance and make reservations if needed.
• Vienna Wine Hiking Day
  On September 27 and 28, the Wiener Weinwandertag invites you to explore Vienna’s wine regions on foot. Several hiking routes lead you past wineries and heurige (wine taverns), where you can taste local wines and enjoy beautiful views over the city.
• Visit to Pumpkin Farms
  Pumpkin season begins and local pumpkin farms around Vienna open their doors. My personal favorites can be found under “The 3 most beautiful pumpkin farms near Vienna” (info will be updated).

• End of Summer Break for Theatres and Opera
  In September, theatres, the Vienna State Opera, and the Volksoper resume performances. A highlight at the Ronacher is the premiere of the new musical Maria Theresia.
• Autumn Walks
  September is ideal for scenic walks in Vienna’s many parks, the Lainzer Tiergarten, the Nussberg, or through the Wienerwald (Vienna Woods), to name just a few. The weather is pleasantly warm during the day, but no longer hot.
• Musical Festival
  If you’re curious about musicals, don’t miss the Musicalfest in September! Enjoy live performances by musical stars, join workshops, and get a sneak peek of the newest musical production by Vereinigte Bühnen Wien.
• Sports Festival
  Vienna’s Sportfest takes place on September 20th, offering a diverse program and many live performances.

Good to know:

• Weather in September: During the day, temperatures are often still pleasantly warm, but the extreme summer heat is usually over. However, mornings and evenings can already be noticeably cooler.
• What to wear: On sunny days, you can still wear lighter clothes during the daytime, but it’s no longer true summer weather. I’d definitely recommend bringing a light transitional jacket, you’ll likely need it at least in the mornings and evenings.

October in Vienna

• Viennese Autumn Days
  The Wiener Herbsttage will take place in the Burggarten from October 9 – 12, 2025. Inside the historic Palm House, you’ll find beautiful autumn decorations, market stands, and plant advice.
• Long Night of Museums
  Definitely a highlight in October – the Long Night of Museums (Lange Nacht der Museen) will take place on October 4, 2025. With one ticket for € 19, you can visit around 700 museums all over Austria between 6 pm and midnight. There are also many special events and activities. An absolute recommendation!
• Visit a Pumpkin Farm
  Even in October, a visit to one of the pumpkin farms around Vienna is a great day trip. You’ll find all the details you need in my blog post.
• Wiener Kaiser Wiesn
  The Wiener Kaiser Wiesn is still open until October 12, perfect if you’re looking for some Oktoberfest vibes in Vienna.

• Pumpkin Festival at “Am Himmel”
  In October, the traditional Pumpkin Festival at Am Himmel takes place, featuring pumpkin carving, seasonal pumpkin delicacies, and a farmers’ market.
• Vienna Safety Festival
  The Wiener Sicherheitsfest will be held at Rathausplatz on October 25 and 26. Various emergency services and aid organizations like the fire department and ambulance service will present their work in demonstrations.
• Autumn Walks
  Walks through places like the Prater Hauptallee, Augarten, Schönbrunn Palace Park, or the Lainzer Tiergarten are especially beautiful now when the leaves are brightly colored. I also highly recommend a walk through the vineyards on Nussberg, the golden foliage and the view over Vienna are simply stunning.

Good to know:

• Weather in October: Summer temperatures are definitely over. On sunny days, it can still be quite pleasant, but without the sun it can already feel chilly. Overall, though, the temperatures are usually very comfortable for sightseeing in the city.
• What to wear: You won’t need summer clothes anymore in October. A transitional outfit like long pants, a lighter sweater, and a mid-season jacket is usually just right.
• Halloween isn’t a huge thing in Vienna yet, and you won’t find much Halloween decoration like in some other cities. The best Halloween atmosphere can be found in Prater, for example during the Halloween parade, or at one of the themed parties in various clubs.
• October 26 is a public holiday in Austria, which means that most shops will be closed (in 2025, this date falls on a Sunday).

November in Vienna

• Opening of the Christmas Markets
  The Christmas markets open, with the first one at Schönbrunn Palace on November 6th, and the others usually following 1 – 2 weeks later.
• All Things Christmas
  In general, November in Vienna is already all about Christmas, not only do the markets open, but Christmas decorations and lights are also put up, transforming the city into a festive wonderland.

Tip: Want to make the most of Chistmas in Vienna? Check out my article “16 things to know before you visit Vienna during Christmas time“. It’s packed with tips and helpful info!

• Start of Carnival Season
  On November 11 at 11.11 a.m., the carnival season (Fasching) officially begins, marking the start of the ball season. In Vienna, this is traditionally celebrated with waltzing at the Graben in the city center.
• Punch season kicks off
  The punch stands and rooftop terraces reopen, too, and you can warm yourself up with mulled wine or all kinds of punch varieties.

Good to know:

• Weather in November: November is typically a very cold, rather unpleasant month (but as always, the weather is unpredictable).
• What to wear: In November, I would definitely recommend packing winter clothing. It gets colder, and boots or warm winter shoes, a winter jacket, hat, gloves, and scarf are the right attire for this month. As always, my tip is to dress in layers to adjust to the varying weather conditions.
• November 1st is a public holiday in Austria, meaning most shops will be closed on this day.
• With the start of the Christmas markets, Vienna becomes very crowded. Especially at the end of November, tourists flood the city, so expect large crowds.
• Some attractions close starting in November, like the Hermes Villa (which can still be viewed from the outside) and the Otto Wagner Church (also viewable from the outside). The viewing terrace at MQ Libelle is on winter break until February.
• Also, the city’s fountains will be covered or empty.

4. Vienna in winter

Winter in Vienna is usually quite cold and sometimes a bit uncomfortable. What makes it special nonetheless? The pre-Christmas season and the ball season! With a bit of luck, there might even be snow, but don’t expect too much: in Vienna, it usually only snows on a few days each year. So don’t be fooled by the beautiful snow videos on Instagram, for example, during the winter of 2024/25, it hardly snowed at all.

Winter Highlights in Vienna

• New Year’s Eve Path (Silvesterpfad)
• New Year’s Concert
• Wiener Eistraum
• Ball Season

December in Vienna

• Christmas Markets
  Most Christmas markets are open until December 23, with some remaining open until December 26, and a few even until early January. A detailed list will be available here as soon as the dates are confirmed, or you can check my Instagram account.
• Christmas Decorations
  The Christmas decorations and lights stay up until after the holidays in January, so you can still enjoy them.

Tip: Want to experience more than just the Christmas markets in Vienna? Here you’ll find “15 Things You Can Do in Vienna During Christmas Time”.

• New Year’s Eve Path (Silvesterpfad)
  The New Year’s Eve Path, as the name suggests, is a route through the city center with various stages where artists perform, champagne stands, good luck charms, and more. But be warned: it gets extremely crowded along the New Year’s Eve Path. For those who want to ring in the New Year with fireworks: there is no fireworks display here, only the ringing of the Pummerin bell at St. Stephen’s Cathedral.
• New Year’s Concert
  This traditional concert by the Vienna Philharmonic takes place on the morning of January 1st at the Vienna Musikverein, and tickets are very hard to come by. Still want to be part of it live? The concert will be broadcast on a screen at Stephansplatz and in the Prater.

• Viennese Ice Dream (Wiener Eistraum)
  The Viennese Ice Dream opens at Rathausplatz, where you can skate around the ice paths in the Rathauspark. In December, only the smaller ice rink is open, but by mid-January, the huge ice skating rink will cover almost the entire square.
• Warm Up in Cafes and Museums
  As a break from the cold at the Christmas markets, you can warm up in one of the many museums in the city, and visiting a cozy cafe is also a great idea during this time of year (but not just then).

Good to know:

• Weather in December: In this month, the weather in Vienna is wintery, very cold, and often windy. It sometimes snows, but snowfall in Vienna is generally rare.
• What to wear: If you’re visiting Vienna in December, be sure to pack very warm winter clothing, including boots or winter shoes, a winter jacket, scarf, hat, and gloves.
• On December 24th in the evening, Christmas is traditionally celebrated in Austria, and shops are open until around 1 p.m. on this day. December 25th and 26th are public holidays, and almost all shops are closed.
• On December 31st, most shops do not stay open late, many close between 2 and 3 p.m., but supermarkets may remain open until 5 p.m. (always check the times beforehand). January 1st is a public holiday, and almost all shops are closed.
• There is no fireworks display at the Vienna Silvesterpfad or generally in the city center. To see fireworks, it’s best to go to Kahlenberg or Bellevuewiese. On a clear day, you’ll have a great view of Vienna and the fireworks from there.
• Most restaurants that are open for Christmas or New Year’s Eve offer special Christmas or New Year’s Eve menus, make sure to reserve in advance.

January in Vienna

• New Year’s Concert
  The year traditionally begins with the New Year’s Concert of the Vienna Philharmonic at the Vienna Musikverein. Tickets for this concert are very difficult to get and are sold exclusively through a lottery (registration for this starts in February). If you don’t have tickets, you can watch the concert live on TV or on the screens at Stephansplatz or in the Vienna Prater.
• Viennese Ice Dream (Wiener Eistraum)
  On January 22nd, the Eistraum, the huge ice skating rink at Rathausplatz opens. You can skate on different levels and areas, or enjoy skating along the illuminated paths through the park with the beautiful backdrop of the Town Hall until March 8th.
• Ball Season
  The ball season is in full swing in January, with balls like the Wiener Kaffeesiederball, the Zuckerbäckerball, or the Ball of the Vienna Philharmonic taking place in this month of 2026.

Tip: Everything you need to know about Vienna’s ball season, you can find in my ultimate guide (dates will be updated).

• Indoor Activities:
  January is the perfect time for indoor activities: explore the museums, take guided tours of places like the State Opera or the Parliament, visit the churches of Vienna, or enjoy one of the many beautiful cafes.

Good to know:

• Weather in January: It’s still very cold in January, often windy, and there’s usually not much sunshine.
• What to wear: Pack warm clothes and don’t forget your scarf, hat, and gloves.
• The ball season takes place mostly in January and February, but getting tickets spontaneously is very difficult. Ticket sales for some balls even start in spring or summer, so it’s important to plan ahead. Many of the well-known balls are sold out well in advance.
• From mid-January on, Vienna tends to get a bit quieter in terms of tourist numbers. If you enjoy visiting museums or exhibitions, this is the perfect time, as you’ll likely face much shorter queues and fewer crowds.
• If you enjoy spending time outdoors or want to explore nature in and around Vienna, I’d recommend choosing a different time of year for your trip.
• January 1st and January 6th are public holidays in Austria, meaning that nearly all shops in Vienna will be closed on these days.

February in Vienna

• Ice Dream at Rathausplatz (Eistraum)
  In February, the Eistraum ice skating rink at Rathausplatz remains open. You can also rent ice skates directly on site.
• Free Exhibition at Gartenpalais Liechtenstein
  Each year, the Gartenpalais Liechtenstein opens its doors for a special annual exhibition, offering a glimpse into the princely collection. It’s a great opportunity to see the interior of the palace as well. The rooms featured vary each year, from the library to the Hercules Hall, everything has been included before.
• Ball Season
  There are still several balls taking place in February, with the highlight being the Vienna Opera Ball on February 12th. Make sure to get your tickets well in advance, as most balls sell out quickly.
• Opera Ball Dress Rehearsal
  The night before the Opera Ball, you can attend the dress rehearsal. All information about this event can be found at the end of my article on the ball season in Vienna.
• Fewer Tourists
  February is a relatively quiet month in terms of tourism, perfect for those coming to Vienna for the museums. Even the lines at popular cafés are usually much shorter during this time.
• Time for Krapfen
  It’s “Krapfen” season! This traditional Austrian pastry is especially popular during carnival time and definitely worth trying.

Good to know:

• Weather in February: February is usually still quite cold, though some sunny days can feel a bit milder and more pleasant. However, mornings and evenings are generally still chilly.
• What to wear: You’ll typically still need winter clothing, but on milder days you might be able to skip the thick boots or hat. Definitely check the weather forecast before your trip.
• Keep in mind that nature still hasn’t awakened this month, so parks aren’t particularly scenic yet. The fountains are also still in hibernation, and viewing platforms like the MQ Libelle or the Gloriette terrace are still closed. (But even so, the view from the Gloriette is still beautiful.)
• Reasons why I’d visit Vienna in February: fewer tourists, attending a ball, museum visits, churches, and other indoor activities.
• Carnival (“Fasching”) isn’t as big in Vienna as it is in some other countries or Austrian regions.

And as promised, here’s my favorite season in Vienna: For me, the most beautiful time of the year is spring, especially April, when everything is in bloom, and May, when the temperatures are pleasant but not too hot, and you can spend more time outdoors again. But I also really love the Christmas season, with all the Christmas markets and decorations – I even put up with the cold for that. But after that, I wouldn’t mind skipping straight to spring again.

What about you? When do you like Vienna the most? I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments!