Vienna shines brighter during the Christmas season, thanks to its iconic markets, historic churches, and rich musical traditions. The city transforms into a winter wonderland where classical melodies echo through grand halls, and the aroma of mulled wine and roasted chestnuts fills the air. We love the Vienna: Christmas & New Year’s Concert in St. Peter’s Church for its enchanting location and timeless music, and the Private Christmas Markets Walking Tour for its intimate exploration of Vienna’s most beautiful holiday spots. Whether you’re into classical concerts, lively markets, or stunning photos, Vienna offers a Christmas experience for every type of traveler.
This list includes a variety of tours—from classical concerts in historic churches, private market walks, and culinary tours to full-day trips to nearby fairy-tale villages. You’ll find options that fit different budgets, interests, and schedules, all aimed at making your holiday visit truly memorable. Use this guide to pick the perfect Christmas experience in Vienna.
1. Vienna: Christmas & New Year’s Concert in St. Peter’s Church
At number 1, this concert stands out for its perfect setting—St. Peter’s Church, a stunning Baroque building, provides an intimate and acoustically superb space for classical music. The Classic Ensemble Vienna performs works by Mozart, Vivaldi, Beethoven, and Haydn, including “Eine kleine Nachtmusik,” creating a festive atmosphere. The concert lasts about an hour and offers a deeply authentic Viennese Christmas experience. Reviews highlight its magical ambiance and the enchanting interpretation of timeless classics. With a rating of 4.6/5 from nearly 700 reviewers, it’s a favorite for its quality and historic locale.
This concert is ideal if you want to combine the beauty of Vienna’s architecture with world-class music in a setting that radiates holiday spirit. Be sure to book in advance, as this event sells out quickly during the festive season. Bottom line: an elegant way to celebrate Christmas or New Year in Vienna’s most beautiful church, perfect for music lovers and those seeking a traditional holiday experience.
2. Vienna: Christmas Photoshoot with a Pro Photographer
Number 2 offers a fun, personalized way to capture your Vienna Christmas memories. This Christmas Photoshoot with a Pro Photographer takes you on a scenic walking tour through iconic landmarks like the Albertina Museum terrace, the Mozart Statue in Burggarten, Hofburg Palace, and St. Stephen’s Cathedral. Your professional photographer will help you take stunning, high-quality photos that you’ll cherish. With a rating of 4.4/5 from 241 reviews, it’s praised for its friendly guide and beautiful settings.
This experience is perfect if you want to preserve memories of Vienna’s holiday charm with high-quality images. It’s also suitable for couples, families, or solo travelers who want a unique souvenir. The one-hour duration keeps it manageable, and the guided walk means you’ll see the highlights while the photographer works their magic. Bottom line: a memorable, personalized Christmas keepsake in Vienna’s most picturesque spots.
3. Christmas and New Year Concert at St. Peter’s Church in Vienna
Number 3 brings you a classical concert in Vienna’s iconic St. Peter’s Church, with a program featuring Mozart, Vivaldi, Bach, and Beethoven. The setting in the crypt of the Baroque church makes for a truly festive atmosphere. The concert lasts about an hour and offers a warm, musical celebration of the season. Reviewers call it “magical,” praising the acoustics and the talented performers from Classic Ensemble Vienna.
This concert is a perfect choice for music lovers wanting an authentic Viennese Christmas experience—surrounded by history and music in equal measure. The ticket price of around $57 makes it an accessible luxury. Keep in mind, seating is in church pews, so arrive early if you want a prime spot. Bottom line: an enchanting concert that makes the season special in a stunning setting.
4. Private Christmas Markets Walking Tour Vienna
Number 4 takes you on a private tour of Vienna’s sparkling Christmas markets. Led by a knowledgeable guide, you’ll visit at least three markets in about two and a half hours, including the Arts & Crafts Market at St. Charles’ Church and the Old Vienna Christkindlmarkt at Freyung. The tour is perfect for avoiding the crowds and seeing the city’s best decorated spots illuminated at night. Reviewers praise the guide’s engaging commentary and the efficient itinerary that covers top sites like Hofburg Palace and St. Stephen’s.
This tour is ideal if you want a curated, insider look at Vienna’s festive markets without the hassle of navigating alone. It’s best suited for those who love walking and cultural stories, and with a price of $318 for up to 8 people, it offers excellent value for a private experience. Bottom line: a comprehensive, personalized way to experience Vienna’s holiday markets with an expert guide.
5. Christmas Markets & Shopping in Vienna
In fifth place, this shopping-focused tour combines the best of Vienna’s boutiques and markets. Led by a local guide, the tour includes visits to Hotel Sacher, Swarovski Kristallwelten, and the main Christmas market at St. Stephen’s Square. You’ll sample traditional treats, browse high-end shops, and learn about Viennese coffee culture at Julius Meinl. Reviewers mention the guide’s friendly approach and the chance to find unique souvenirs.
This tour appeals to those who want a relaxed, insider shopping experience alongside festive atmospheres. For just under $70, it offers a good balance of culture, shopping, and holiday treats. It’s especially suited for travelers who enjoy discovering local crafts and iconic Vienna sights. Bottom line: a delightful blend of shopping, sweets, and seasonal traditions in Vienna’s heart.
6. Vienna Christmas Tour
Number 6 is a short evening walking tour through Vienna’s top Christmas markets, including Graben, Kohlmarkt, and Freyung. It lasts about two hours, with a small group ensuring personal attention. You’ll hear stories about local traditions and see beautifully decorated squares, while tasting warm spiced wine and gingerbread (own expense). Reviewers highlight its friendly guide and the chance to see the city’s holiday sparkle.
Ideal for those with limited time but wanting a taste of Vienna’s festive ambiance, this tour is perfect for active travelers. It’s best suited for first-timers or those wanting to avoid the busiest markets. At $86, it offers a good value for a cozy, guided evening. Bottom line: a warm and engaging way to experience Vienna’s holiday lights and stories in a short time.
7. Vienna: Advent, Christmas and New Year’s Concerts
Number 7 features a series of musical concerts in the Minoritenkirche, Vienna’s beautiful church. Performances include works by Mozart, Beethoven, and Vivaldi, with programs tailored around the Advent, Christmas, and New Year seasons. Reviewers love the high-quality musicianship and the stunning church setting, making it a top pick for classical music aficionados.
This experience suits travelers seeking an elegant, cultural evening filled with festive music. Concert times vary, so check the schedule. The ticket prices aren’t listed, but the value lies in the quality of the music and ambiance. Bottom line: an authentic musical celebration that captures Vienna’s holiday spirit.
8. Vienna: Schönbrunn Christmas Market and Classical Concert
Number 8 combines the magic of the Schönbrunn Christmas Market with a classical concert at the Orangery. The market features culinary vouchers that include a hot drink and a dish, plus priority access and two free drinks at the concert. The concert offers performances by the Palace Orchestra with pieces by Mozart, including “The Blue Danube.”
This full-day experience is perfect for those wanting a royal holiday vibe and culture. The combination of market atmosphere and concert makes it a great value, especially with VIP benefits. It’s especially suited for visitors who love music, palace history, and festive food. Bottom line: a regal, festive day combining Vienna’s best Christmas market and music.
9. From Vienna: Prague Christmas Market & City Guided Tour
Number 9 offers a full-day trip to Prague’s Christmas markets and historic sights. You’ll travel by van, with hotel pickup, and enjoy guided tours of Old Town, Charles Bridge, and Prague Castle. The markets are charming, with treats like trdelník and Czech sausages, and the city twinkles at night with holiday lights.
This tour is ideal for those wanting to see more than Vienna during Christmas. It’s a 13-hour day that combines sightseeing, shopping, and cultural experiences. Guests appreciate the comfortable transportation and knowledgeable guides. Priced at $102, it offers good value for a day trip. Bottom line: a wonderful way to extend your Christmas adventure to Prague’s fairy-tale streets.
10. Christmas Market Vienna Tour
Number 10 is a guided market crawl across Vienna’s most popular Christmas spots, including Rathausplatz and Spittelberg. The tour lasts about two to three hours and focuses on local traditions, holiday treats, and festive decorations. Reviewers love the lively atmosphere and the stories about Austria’s Christmas customs.
It’s perfect for travelers who want a guided taste of Vienna’s holiday markets without the hassle of planning. The tour is well-paced and informative, ideal for those with limited time but a desire to see several markets. For $102, it offers a balanced mix of culture and holiday cheer. Bottom line: a lively, insightful introduction to Vienna’s Christmas markets.
11. Private Christmas Time Tour from Vienna to Hallstatt and Salzburg Market
Number 11 is a full-day private adventure exploring Hallstatt, Salzburg, and the surrounding Alps. Highlights include walking through Hallstatt’s pearl-white streets, enjoying mulled wine, and visiting Salzburg’s historic Christkindlmarkt. This tour is perfect for travelers wanting a personalized, flexible experience with plenty of holiday sights.
Rated 5/5, reviews mention the guide’s knowledge and the special touches that make this trip stand out. The tour’s length (12–14 hours) makes it ideal for those with a full day and a love for scenic drives and picturesque villages. It’s a premium experience that delivers high-quality, tailored holiday memories. Bottom line: a luxurious, private way to see Austria’s most famous Christmas destinations.
12. Schönbrunn: Christmas Market, Palace Tour, & Concert
Number 12 combines a visit to the Schönbrunn Palace Christmas Market with an after-hours palace tour and a concert by the Schönbrunn Palace Orchestra. The experience includes a stunning palace visit, festive market shopping, and a classical concert. Reviewers highlight the ambiance and the chance to see the palace at night.
This full-day activity is perfect if you want a comprehensive holiday experience in one of Vienna’s most iconic palaces. It’s especially suited for history and music lovers looking for a luxurious, cultural day. The combination of sights, sounds, and seasonal magic makes it a top choice. Bottom line: a classy, festive outing at Vienna’s most famous palace.
13. Small-Group Christmas Day Trip to Hallstatt from Vienna
Number 13 is a special Christmas Day tour, allowing you to experience Hallstatt’s quiet beauty and festive charm during the holiday. Traveling in a small group, you’ll explore the village, enjoy traditional treats, and learn about Austria’s Alpine customs. Highlights include walking through Hallstatt’s postcard-perfect streets and visiting the Christmas market in St. Wolfgang.
Rated 5/5, travelers appreciate the guide’s local insights and the peaceful holiday atmosphere. It’s ideal for those seeking a relaxed, culturally rich day away from crowded markets. The 13.5-hour tour is suited for active travelers who want a cozy, scenic holiday experience. Bottom line: a peaceful, scenic Christmas escape into Austria’s mountain villages.
14. Vienna: 3-Hour Private Tour with Christmas Market & Upper Belvedere
Number 14 offers a private, personalized experience combining Vienna’s stunning Belvedere Palace with a Christmas market visit. The tour includes exploring the palace’s magnificent gardens and viewing Klimt’s “The Kiss,” then finishing at the Christmas market to enjoy local traditions.
Rated 5/5, reviewers commend the guide’s storytelling and the flexibility of the private tour. It’s perfect for couples or small groups wanting an intimate, rundown of Vienna’s art, history, and holiday cheer in just three hours. The focus on top sights makes it a great value. Bottom line: a tailored, cultural holiday experience in a short time.
15. Vienna: Christmas Market Food and Drinks Tour
Our final choice is a culinary tour that takes you to four of Vienna’s lesser-known Christmas markets. You’ll sample traditional winter delicacies like roasted chestnuts, sausages, and sweet pastries, and enjoy warming drinks like Glühwein and Punsch. The guide shares stories about Austria’s seasonal customs along the way.
Rated 5/5, travelers highlight the authentic food and the chance to explore markets away from the crowds. It’s perfect for foodies and those who want a more relaxed, flavorful experience that combines cultural insight with festive feasts. The four-hour tour is reasonably priced at $135. Bottom line: a delicious way to celebrate Christmas in Vienna’s hidden market corners.
How to Choose Your Perfect Christmas Experience
When selecting your ideal Christmas tours in Vienna, consider your interests and schedule. If you’re a music lover, the Vienna: Christmas & New Year’s Concert in St. Peter’s Church offers an authentic, elegant experience. For those wanting a comprehensive cultural overview, the Private Christmas Markets Walking Tour provides a guided look at several markets. Budget travelers may prefer the Vienna Christmas Market Food and Drinks Tour for its flavorful journey, while those seeking special memories might opt for the Photoshoot experience.
Thinking about day trips? The Prague Christmas Market & City Guided Tour offers a festive escape to a fairy-tale city, while the Hallstatt and Salzburg private tour is perfect for scenic mountain villages. Budget, time, and your personal interests—whether music, food, shopping, or sightseeing—will guide your choice.
Booking early is highly recommended, especially for concerts and private tours, as Vienna’s holiday season books up fast. Consider what’s most important—whether a relaxed shopping experience, a cultural concert, or a scenic day trip—and plan accordingly.
Final Thoughts
Vienna offers a dazzling array of Christmas experiences, from musical concerts and festive markets to scenic trips into Austria’s mountain villages. Whether you’re after a formal concert in a historic church, a private walking tour of markets, or a culinary journey through holiday treats, the options are plentiful. The Vienna: Christmas & New Year’s Concert in St. Peter’s Church and the Private Christmas Markets Walking Tour are two standout choices depending on your priorities—authentic music or personalized exploration.
Don’t wait too long to secure your spot, especially for popular events like concerts or private tours. With so many unique ways to celebrate, Vienna’s holiday magic is just waiting to be discovered. Happy holidays, and enjoy your festive adventure in Austria’s magnificent capital!