Vienna at Christmas time is unlike anywhere else in Europe. The city transforms into a winter wonderland filled with shimmering lights, aromatic markets, and the unmistakable sound of classical music floating through the chilly air. Nothing captures the spirit quite like attending a concert in St. Peter’s Church or wandering through the city’s festive markets with a warm cup of Glühwein in hand. The Vienna Christmas & New Year Concert in St. Peter’s Church offers a magical evening of timeless melodies, and the Private Christmas Markets Walking Tour makes exploring multiple markets easy and immersive. Whether you crave the elegance of a concert or the hustle and bustle of festive stalls, Vienna has an experience for you.
Quick Overview
Our list covers a broad range of Christmas Tours & Experiences in Vienna, including concerts in historic churches, guided walking tours of traditional markets, private day trips to Salzburg and Hallstatt, and food and drink tastings. The goal is to help you find unique, authentic ways to celebrate the season — whether you’re interested in classical concerts, lively market hopping, or exploring nearby towns. For example, the Vienna: Christmas & New Year’s Concert in St. Peter’s Church stands out for its enchanting music and stunning setting, while the Private Christmas Markets Walking Tour is perfect for those wanting a curated, personal experience. Dive into the details below to see what suits your holiday vibe.
1. Vienna: Christmas & New Year’s Concert in St. Peter’s Church
At number 1, this concert immerses you in Vienna’s classical music tradition inside the stunning vaults of St. Peter’s Church. For around $56, you can enjoy an hour of interpretations of works by Mozart, Vivaldi, Beethoven, and Haydn, performed by the Classic Ensemble Vienna. The church’s baroque architecture, with its ornate altars and candlelit ambiance, provides a memorable backdrop for the music. Reviewers highlight the enchanting performances and the beautiful setting, with many noting the experience as a highlight of their trip. Keep in mind that seating can be tight, and photos aren’t permitted, but the audio and visual atmosphere make up for it.
Bottom Line: Perfect for lovers of classical music seeking an intimate, festive setting. Book early as this concert is very popular.
2. Christmas and New Year Concert at St. Peter’s Church in Vienna
Second on our list, this festive concert also takes place in St. Peter’s Church, offering a one-hour program featuring compositions by Mozart, Bach, Beethoven, and Vivaldi. The setting in Vienna’s most iconic baroque church makes it especially special, with gorgeous acoustics perfect for a holiday concert. Many guests mention the gorgeous Christmas trees and warm atmosphere, though some found the pew seating a bit uncomfortable after a while. The performance by talented musicians from Classic Ensemble Vienna ensures an authentic musical celebration.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for those wanting a more traditional concert experience in a historic venue. Arrive early for the best seats.
3. Private Christmas Markets Walking Tour Vienna
Third, this private walking tour offers a customized, in-depth exploration of Vienna’s festive markets. For about $318 per group (up to 8 people), you’ll visit at least three markets, including St. Charles’ Church Arts & Crafts Market and the Old Vienna Christkindlmarkt. Your guide shares insights into Viennese Christmas traditions, local crafts, and seasonal treats. Guests rave about the engaging guides and the ability to see markets that are often missed on typical tours. The tour lasts roughly 2.5 hours, making it an ideal option for a relaxed, personalized experience.
Bottom Line: Great for families or groups wanting an exclusive, flexible market tour with local insights.
4. Christmas Markets & Shopping in Vienna
Fourth, this shopping-focused tour combines market visits with boutique shopping in Vienna’s historic center. For $70, you’ll explore Hotel Sacher, home of the world-famous Sacher cake, and visit the Swarovski Kristallwelten Store. The tour includes stops at St. Stephen’s Square, Kohlmarkt, and Julius Meinl, with tastings at Cafe Central. Travelers appreciate the insider tips and the opportunity to sample local delicacies. This tour is perfect for those wanting to combine shopping, culture, and food on one leisurely walk.
Bottom Line: Ideal for shoppers and food lovers looking for a charming, Insider’s Vienna experience.
5. Vienna Christmas Tour
Fifth, a 2-hour evening walking tour that highlights Vienna’s top Christmas markets like Rathaus and Charles Square. For around $87, you’ll hear stories and insights about local traditions while strolling past festively decorated streets. Many reviewers mention the personalized attention and the delicious hot drinks (own expense). The tour hits famous sites and lesser-known gems, making it suitable for active travelers who want a comprehensive holiday overview.
Bottom Line: Best for first-timers wanting a balanced introduction to Vienna’s Christmas spirit.
6. Vienna: Advent, Christmas and New Year’s Concerts
Sixth, this 70-minute concert in the Minoritenkirche offers celebratory music from masters like Mozart and Vivaldi. Taken place in one of Vienna’s most beautiful churches, it features world-class musicians and a program tailored to the holiday season. Reviewers note the stunning setting and the quality of the performance, making it a must-do for classical music fans.
Bottom Line: A refined, festive concert experience that captures the holiday magic in a stunning venue.
7. Vienna: Christmas Markets Tour
Seventh, this 2-3 hour walking tour offers a taste of four different markets, including Freyung, St. Stephen’s Square, and Am Hof. For $98, you get to sample local foods like punch and gingerbread while learning about Vienna’s Christmas traditions. Guests love how the small group setting allows for personal questions and local insights. This tour is perfect for those who want a broad overview of Vienna’s Christmas festivities with a culinary twist.
Bottom Line: Excellent for foodies and culture seekers wanting a lively, intimate experience.
8. Christmas Market Vienna Tour
Eighth, this market crawl visits popular spots like Rathausplatz, Spittelberg, and MuseumsQuartier. For $102, you’ll experience the best of Vienna’s holiday decorations, enjoy hot punch and cookies, and learn about the city’s Christmas traditions. Reviewers highlight the rich atmosphere and variety of markets. It’s a solid option for those wanting a guided, festive tasting tour.
Bottom Line: A good blend of shopping, eating, and exploring in Vienna’s most famous markets.
9. Private Christmas Time Tour from Vienna to Hallstatt and Salzburg Market
Ninth, this private full-day tour offers a comprehensive holiday experience in Hallstatt and Salzburg. For about $665 per person, you visit Hallstatt’s enchanting Christmas atmosphere and the historic Salzburg Christkindlmarkt. The tour includes scenic drives, walking tours, and Christmas cookies tasting. Guests rave about the personalized attention and guides’ local knowledge that makes the trip feel special.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers who want a luxurious, all-in-one holiday escape outside Vienna.
10. Small-Group Christmas Day Trip to Hallstatt from Vienna
Tenth, this small-group tour offers a relaxed Christmas Day exploration of Hallstatt. Priced at $283, it includes walking tours of the village, visit to the church, and Christmas market visits. Many guests mention how peaceful and scenic Hallstatt feels during the holidays, and that the guide made it memorable. It’s ideal for those wanting a less crowded, intimate experience on a special holiday.
Bottom Line: Perfect for romantic couples or families celebrating Christmas in a quiet, picturesque setting.
11. Vienna 3h Private Tour with Christmas Market & Upper Belvedere
Eleventh, this private 3-hour tour combines visits to the Upper Belvedere Palace and the Christmas Market. For $250 per person, you enjoy Gustav Klimt’s masterpieces and explore Vienna’s art and architecture, all with a personalized guide. Guests appreciate the expert commentary and the chance to see both cultural and festive highlights in one tour.
Bottom Line: Ideal for art lovers wanting a cultural and holiday blend.
12. Vienna: Christmas Market Food and Drinks Tour
Twelfth, this 4-hour tour takes you beyond the crowds to explore less touristy markets. For $135, you’ll sample traditional dishes and warm drinks like Glühwein and Punsch, while learning about Austrian holiday customs. Reviewers mention the generous portions and knowledgeable guide making it a delicious, fun experience.
Bottom Line: Best for foodies who want to taste local flavors away from the tourist spots.
13. Vienna: St. Anne’s Church Christmas Concert Ticket
Thirteenth, pre-book your single-hour concert at St. Anne’s Church and enjoy carols and festive music performed by a trumpeter and organist. Many reviewers find the baroque interior and heartwarming music perfect for a cozy holiday evening. The small, intimate setting makes this a memorable experience, especially if you love less mainstream concerts.
Bottom Line: Good for classical music lovers seeking a serene, meditative Christmas experience.
14. Vienna: Festive Advent, Christmas and New Year concerts
Fourteenth is a 1 hour 10-minute concert in Vienna’s Minoritenkirche, with programs focused on Christmas and New Year. Featured works by Mozart, Vivaldi, and Haydn performed by renowned ensembles create a festive atmosphere. Many reviewers find the acoustics and setting to be outstanding, making it ideal for music aficionados.
Bottom Line: A musical highlight for those wanting a festive concert with a historic ambiance.
15. Salzburg Christmas Markets Day Trip from Vienna
Fifteenth, this full-day guided tour takes you from Vienna to Salzburg, Mozart’s hometown. At roughly 13.5 hours, it includes visits to Mozart’s birthplace, Salzburg Cathedral, and the Christmas markets. Reviewers mention the comfortable ride and informative guide making it a rich cultural day.
Bottom Line: Ideal for culture and music fans wanting a comprehensive Salzburg experience during the holidays.
16. Vienna Christmas Market Food and Drink Tour
Last but not least, this 4-hour food tour explores less crowded markets where you’ll sample Austrian holiday delicacies like Baumkuchen, Kaiserschmarrn, and mulled wine. Guests praise the generous portions and local insights of the guide, making it an excellent choice for culinary travelers seeking authentic flavors.
Bottom Line: Perfect for food lovers who want a delicious, off-the-beaten-path experience.
How to Choose Your Perfect Vienna Christmas Experience
When selecting among these wonderful options, consider your priorities: If you want an elegant concert in a historic church, the Vienna: Christmas & New Year’s Concert in St. Peter’s Church is a top pick. For those wanting a personalized, intimate tour of markets, the Private Christmas Markets Walking Tour offers flexibility and insider knowledge. Budget-conscious travelers might prefer the Festive Advent, Christmas and New Year concerts, while foodies should look into the Food and Drinks Tour or the Market Crawl.
If your time is limited but you want a comprehensive city overview with seasonal highlights, the Vienna Christmas Tour or the 3-hour private Belvedere experience cover a lot in a short time. For a day trip outside Vienna with a Christmas twist, the Hallstatt and Salzburg tours are hard to beat, especially during the holiday season.
Remember to book early for popular concerts and tours, especially during the busy Christmas season, and check availability as schedules and offerings can fill up quickly.
From soul-stirring concerts to bustling markets filled with holiday treats, Vienna’s Christmas tours offer something for every traveler. Whether you prefer classical music in a baroque church, exploring festive markets with a guide, or taking a scenic trip to Salzburg or Hallstatt, the city’s holiday magic is waiting. Don’t delay — these experiences are best enjoyed with early planning, so reserve your spot soon and make your Viennese Christmas unforgettable.