Vienna in winter: an imperial experience

01

Art Advent at Karlsplatz

With the imposing Karlskirche church in the background, the annual Art Advent takes place on Karlsplatz and is considered one of the most diverse winter Advent markets in Vienna. Nearly 100 stalls bring handicrafts of all kinds here - from glass blowing to painting and photography to natural cosmetics. Caterers also bring delicacies from all over Austria to the Austrian capital.
400 metres from the Kaiserhof: approx. 5 minutes on foot

02

Old Viennese Christmas Market Freyung

As early as 1772, a pre-Christmas market was held on the Freyung in the 1st district. Even today, one of Vienna's most atmospheric Christmas markets takes place here, surrounded by historic palaces between Schottenstift and Am Hof. In addition to fragrant punch stalls, there are numerous opportunities to find Christmas presents. Concerts, puppet theatre and arts and crafts demonstrations take place on a stage.
2 km from the Kaiserhof: approx. 25 min on foot or 20 min on tram line 1

03

Christmas market on the town hall square

The Vienna Christmas Market has been bringing a festive atmosphere to Rathausplatz for 50 years. Around the large Christmas tree, which is decorated with hundreds of lights and Christmas baubles, there is a colourful range of culinary delights, arts and crafts and jewellery stalls. A special highlight: the romantic Christmas tree in the Rathauspark.
2 km from the Kaiserhof: approx. 30 min on foot or 15 min on tram line 1

04

Winter market at the Riesenradplatz

The venerable Vienna Giant Ferris Wheel provides a special backdrop here. The Christmas market beneath the city's landmark is lively and exuberant. Live music, shows and events create a great atmosphere, the market stalls provide food and drink and the carousel, rollercoasters and Ferris wheel provide plenty of fun all round.
3.5 km from Kaiserhof: approx. 45 min on foot or 20 min on the U1 underground line

05

Schönbrunn Palace Christmas Market

No other Christmas market has as much imperial flair as the one in front of Schönbrunn Palace. The backdrop alone is worth a trip there. It is sweetened by traditional arts and crafts and a gastronomic offer that places great emphasis on regionality and quality. There is also a Christmas tree and a nostalgic carousel.
6.5 km from the Kaiserhof: approx. 35 min on the U4 underground line

01

Viennese ice dream

The ice shines particularly beautifully under the lights of Vienna City Hall. In January, the Christmas market on Rathausplatz gives way to a 10,000 m² ice rink. Pirouettes can be performed from morning until late in the evening. Skate hire is available on site.
2 km from the Kaiserhof: approx. 30 min on foot or 15 min on tram line 1

02

Horse-drawn carriage ride through the city

For centuries, horse-drawn carriages have been as much a part of Vienna as St Stephen's Cathedral. Discover the city in a cosy and snug carriage pulled by horses. There are simple tours of the city centre, rides through Vienna's Central Cemetery or an extraordinary riding dinner.
Fiaker stands can be found at Stephansplatz, Michaelerplatz and near the Albertina.

03

Theatre & Opera

From the famous Burgtheater to the Volkstheater and Theater in der Josefstadt to smaller theatres, Vienna offers a wide variety of theatres to visit in winter. Performances range from literary classics to contemporary plays. A visit to the venerable State Opera also adds another highlight to your winter holiday in Vienna. Here, not only the performance but also the unique ambience is an experience in itself.

04

Opera Ball & Co

The Opera Ball became a world-famous event a long time ago. The ball was first held at the State Opera House in 1935 and today, more than ever, Vienna's high society and international guests gather at the State Opera House to celebrate this highlight of the Viennese ball season. But Vienna also offers many other balls worth experiencing in winter, such as the Philharmonic Ball at the Vienna Musikverein, the Hofburg Silvesterball and the Zuckerbäckerball.

05

Ride the Ferris wheel

The Giant Ferris Wheel was built in Vienna's Leopoldstadt district to mark the 50th anniversary of Emperor Franz Joseph I's accession to the throne in 1897 and was one of the largest Ferris wheels in the world at the time. Even today, the 65 metre high structure with its 15 characteristic red wagons is still one of the most famous Ferris wheels in the world. A ride offers a wonderful view of the city.
3.5 km from the Kaiserhof: approx. 45 min on foot or 20 min on the U1 underground line