While February may be one of the least popular months for tourism in Vienna, there is still plenty to do. In fact, as there is a short school break in February, there are plenty of activities available for families, should you be traveling with children. But even adults don`t need to worry.
Below, we have compiled some practical information for you as well as the best things to do in Vienna in February.
Please note that this article contains affiliate links. Learn more about it on our Disclosure page. We use ads to support our small business – we hope you don’t mind them too much.
Table of Contents
Vienna Weather in February
February in Vienna is a true winter month and you should be prepared for inclement weather accordingly. Expect highs around 42°F (5°C) and lows around 30°F (-1°C).
Note that Vienna is a pretty windy city which makes it feel much colder than it actually is. It is also possible that it snows in February, but don`t count on it.
What to Wear in Vienna in February
February is cold and grey for the most part. Definitely pack a warm coat or jacket. Hats, gloves, and even a scarf are essentials.
Whether you are planning to explore a lot on foot or not, it’s still best to pack a pair of comfortable winter boots. If the shoes or boots are water-resistant, even better.
Most of the time it snows in the city, and it quickly turns into sludge. And there is truly nothing worse than wet feet during sightseeing.
Practical Information for Visiting Vienna in February
Whether you like to travel in the winter or not, one has to admit that it can be one of the most practical seasons for city trips. It being the off-season means you´ll have most of the main attractions all to yourself.
As far as Vienna goes, February is a great time to visit as there are no public holidays that can you restrict you in any way. All popular tourist attractions are open as usual (including museums, palaces, churches, etc.), except only a very few outdoor venues (e.g. the maze at Schönbrunn gardens).
Where to Stay in Vienna in February
Hostel: Wombats Naschmarkt, a popular hostel in Vienna, within walking distance of the city center
Budget Economy: B&B Hotel Wien-Meidling, a great budget option close to Wien-Meidling station
Budget Plus: Motel One Wien Hauptbahnhof, an unpretentious choice within 2 minutes of Vienna Central Station
Mid-range: Mercure Secession Vienna, a reasonably-priced 4-star hotel in the city center
Splurge: Hotel Sans Souci Wien, one of the city’s most prestigious hotels, the glamorous Sans Souci features trendy rooms and deluxe furnishings
Best Things to Do in February in Vienna
Below, find a selection of the best things to do in Vienna in February. Pick one or two and combine them with dozens of other fun things to do in Vienna.
1. Attend a Classical Concert
Vienna has long been described as the capital of music. Classical music, that is. Almost every famous classical composer once called Vienna their home.
So it should come as no surprise that music is very much ingrained in our daily lives here. Get a taste of it by attending one of the many classical concerts taking place in Vienna every week:
- Mozart Concert at the Golden Hall: Enjoy the classic works of Mozart in one of Vienna’s finest concert halls. The costumes may seem a bit gimmicky, but they truly add something to the atmosphere. Overall, you can expect a fun evening. >>> Book now
- Classic Ensemble Vienna in St. Peter’s Church: If you want a bit more variety, this concert offers interpretations of works by numerous composers, including Beethoven, Vivaldi, and Schubert. The setting in St. Peter’s Church provides the perfect atmosphere for a magical evening. >>> Book now
Pro Tip
The dress code for most of the concert venues in Austria is formal. While it is not enforced very strictly, it would be good to wear something that covers your shoulders, knees, and toes (for men and women alike).
2. Experience Viennese Coffee Culture
One of the best things to do when it is cold in Vienna is to seek refuge in one of the cozy cafes. Viennese coffee culture dates back hundreds of years and as Austrians, we do take it very seriously!
A single cup of coffee can keep you in a cafe for HOURS in Vienna – so slow down and relax (and warm up your feet). There are dozens of cafes to choose from. Cafe Jelinek and Cafe Hawelka are two of my personal favorites.
Alternatively, you could also join a guided tour of the coffee houses in Vienna. That way, you’ll also get to learn more about their history and cultural impact. Check out this popular tour for example.
3. Spend a Romantic Valentine’s Day
Although not a public holiday, Valentine’s Day makes everybody’s calendars. You can definitely spend a romantic Valentine’s Day in Vienna. It’s the perfect opportunity to check out one of Vienna’s 10+ Michelin-starred restaurants.
Just be sure to reserve a table WELL in advance. Alternatively, you can consider a candlelight dinner for two in Vienna’s iconic Ferris wheel. This once-in-a-lifetime opportunity with a stunning view of Vienna comes with a hefty price tag though.
For a daytime activity, head over to the Vienna Chocolate Museum and join one of the different workshops. Make your own bar of chocolate or exclusive pralines – the choice is yours!
4. Travel Back in Time in Vienna’s Museums
If you need to get out of the cold and are curious to learn more about Vienna or Austria, why not check out one of Vienna’s 100+ museums?
Learn about the tragic story of Emperess Sisi at the Sisi Museum, the treasures of the past at the Imperial Treasury in the Hofburg Palace, or dive into the world of psychoanalysis at the Sigmund Freud Museum.
If art is what you’re after, Vienna has it all – from Baroque opulence to modern Minimalism. I definitely recommend checking out the highly regarded Kunsthistorisches Museum, the fabulous Albertina Museum, and the insightful Leopold Museum.
Pro Tip: If you are planning to visit several museums (and possibly other sites of interest), save some money with the Vienna Pass.
5. Play Ruler at the Imperial Palaces
What would an imperial capital be without imposing palaces? Vienna certainly got them.
A visit to these palaces is the perfect thing to do in Vienna in February as they are significantly less crowded in the winter than in the summer. Reminding our tiny nation of its imperial past, they can take hours to explore in full. Put these two on your bucket list:
- Schönbrunn Palace: Once the summer residence of the Habsburg family, this imposing palace is a must-see in Vienna. As it is a popular tourist destination, you may want to buy a skip-the-line ticket ahead of time.
- Belvedere Palace: This opulent Baroque palace serves as one of Austria’s leading museums today. After all, it is home to Gustav Klimt’s famous Kiss. You can conveniently buy your ticket online.
Please note that some outdoor features at the palaces may be closed to the public during the winter (e.g. the maze at Schönbrunn Palace).
6. Listen in on the Accordion Festival
The accordion is a staple in Austrian composition and is popular in folk music even today. Between February and March visitors to Vienna have the chance to listen in during the annual Accordion Festival.
Concerts and performances take place at various venues throughout the city. For the full program and tickets, check their official website.
7. Celebrate Carnival with the Locals
It may not be Rio or Venice, but carnival is still one of the most exciting days in February in Vienna. Take some time out of your schedule to attend the big carnival parade in the early afternoon and enjoy one (or more) Krapfen – a traditional Austrian pastry.
The location of the parade changes from year to year, but Krapfen are unmissable. They are a staple in all Viennese bakeries throughout February.
Later, you can attend one of many parties in the city or join the official “Viennese Carnival”.
For the full program and tickets, check out the official website. Please note that the program will be in German only.
8. Get Enchanted at the International Orchid Show
Spring is still a while away in February, but you can sneak a preview of it at the international orchid show, taking place in Vienna every year.
Marvel at rare varieties and take home some inspiration for your own collection. Remember that you may not be able to bring any flowers or bulbs back home with you, though.
For more details, check out the official website.
9. Learn how to Make Viennese Wafers
Vienna is world-famous for its cakes and pastries. Many visitors also know the popular treat “Mannerschnitten” – thin wafers stacked and filled with chocolate cream. Plain wafers may sound a bit understated, but they CAN shine on their own.
At O.Sacher, a shop that has been around for more than 100 years, you can learn a bit about their history and learn how to make wafers yourself.
10. Go Ice Skating
One of the most popular things to do in Vienna in February is to go ice skating.
While Vienna Ice Dream on City Hall Square (Rathausplatz) is mostly associated with the Vienna Christmas Markets, it actually remains open until the beginning of March. It is the most tourist-friendly of all ice skating venues in Vienna (although also the most expensive).
Alternatively, check out the ice rink between the Konzerthaus and the Stadtpark by the Viennese Skating Club or the roof-top Engelmann ice rink.
Tickets at either cost approximately 9 EUR and all places offer rental skates for 7-9 EUR (+ deposit). Just be sure to bring cash.
11. Relax at a Thermal Spa
Most people’s minds go to Iceland when speaking of thermal spas, but Austria is another great place to visit a thermal spa. Although volcanic activity in Austria ceased a LONG time ago, the lucky leftovers are several hot springs in the east and southeast of the country.
In Vienna, you can reach one of the most popular spas in just 15 minutes by public transport – Therme Wien in Oberlaa. It’s the perfect place to warm up during the cold winter months.
Apart from pools, it also offers saunas, massages, and pretty much everything else you would expect from a spa.
You have the option to select from day passes, evening tickets, or memberships for prolonged visits. Each admission allows access to a variety of thermal pools, saunas, and spa amenities aimed at promoting relaxation and well-being.
Additionally, special packages are available, such as family passes and senior discounts, ensuring the spa is accessible and delightful for visitors of every age. Check out their website for more information.
12. Try Your Hand at Curling
What others call “curling”, Austrians call Eisstockschießen. Not to worry, the sport isn’t as complicated or lengthy as the name.
Essentially, you hurl a stock down an icy lane and try to get it as close to the target as possible. It’s a very alpine winter activity and definitely something unique to try in Vienna.
There are a handful of places where you can try your hand at the sport. Just be sure to book your slots online ahead of time:
- Badeschiff (from 45 EUR per 30 minutes)
- Museumsquartier (from 45 EUR per 30 minutes)
Now, what do you think? What is your favorite time of the year to visit Vienna? What else is there to do in Vienna in February? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below!
Hello there, fellow globetrotters! I’m Jacky, a passionate travel blogger with an insatiable wanderlust. With several years of experience in online marketing, I leverage my expertise to ensure that you get the best travel advice, tailored for the digital age. My travels have taken me to over 30 countries, and I love sharing those experiences with readers like you. Besides traveling, my other loves are my beloved cats, architecture, art, science fiction, coffee, and all things cute. My travel tips have been featured on lonelyplanet.com and in the EasyJet Traveller magazine.
