Vienna Weather in December

December weather in Vienna

December feels cold, damp and often grey. Daytime highs reach 4°C, while nights can drop to -2°C. Rain falls on 10 days, and the short daylight leaves little time for outdoor sightseeing. November and January are just as wet, with 44 mm of rain in each month.

You can still enjoy a walk around the Innere Stadt or see the Ringstraße, but chilly weather makes long outdoor days less appealing. Save the Kunsthistorisches Museum or a café stop for grey afternoons. Don't count on clear skies or a sunny view from the Prater Ferris wheel.

Markets and holiday events

Vienna's Christmas markets bring lights, seasonal food and warm drinks to squares across the city. The market at Rathausplatz is a well-known stop, while Schönbrunn's market makes a festive visit to the palace feel even cosier. On New Year's Eve, the Silvesterpfad fills central streets with music and celebrations.

Families can enjoy the market lights, but small children may find cold evenings tiring. The busiest spots get crowded, especially around the holidays.

Crowds, costs and a local tip

December is busier than a typical winter month, thanks to Christmas markets and holiday visitors. Prices can rise around the festive period, especially for central hotels. It's still not the best-value time for a quiet city break; April and September to October are better months overall.

Budget travellers will find that free market browsing helps keep the day affordable. For a practical warm-up, take the U-Bahn to Schönbrunn rather than walking there from the centre, then explore the palace market and grounds at your own pace.