What to eat in Vienna in September: Seasonal delicacies
1/4
Heuriger platters in wine taverns
Cold cuts, spreads, and salads arranged on wooden boards accompany local wines in heuriger taverns. They are especially atmospheric from late spring to early autumn on garden terraces. Visit hillside districts like Döbling or Neustift after a vineyard walk.
Cloudy, gently fermented grape must with noticeable sweetness and alcohol, sold only briefly during harvest. You will find it at heuriger stands and taverns in September and early October. Drink slowly, as it tastes mild but is stronger than juice.
From late September into November, menus add pumpkin soups and stews built around local squash and potatoes. These dishes suit cool, damp days and often appear as vegetarian mains. Try them in casual bistros or daily‑specials boards rather than only tourist menus.
Espresso topped with steamed milk and foam, sitting between cappuccino and latte in strength. It is a year‑round staple but especially pleasant during shoulder seasons when you take café breaks between sights. Order one and feel free to linger over a newspaper.
Usually held over four days in mid September (September 12–15), viennacontemporary gathers Central and Eastern European galleries under one roof. It suits visitors interested in current art trends, with tickets typically sold per day or as multi‑day passes.
Around early September 8–14, a tent in the MuseumsQuartier hosts runway shows by Austrian and regional designers. Industry buyers mix with the public at selected shows and a showroom area. Tickets are sold per show and evenings can be very busy around MQ.
September is Vienna’s golden month. With highs of 24°C (75°F) and crisp nights, the city transitions from summer’s buzz to autumn’s cultural revival. Crowds thin, and the arts scene comes alive with new opera seasons and gallery openings. Vineyards on the city’s edge host harvest festivals, and the air is filled with the scent of ripe grapes and roasted chestnuts. September is perfect for wine hikes, art fairs, and enjoying Vienna’s parks in their autumn glory—a time when the city feels both vibrant and intimate.
Pro tips for visiting Vienna in September
Join the annual Wine Hiking Day for tastings and vineyard walks on Vienna’s outskirts.
Book tickets for new opera and gallery seasons as they launch mid-month.
Take advantage of moderate crowds for easier access to museums and events.
Enjoy chestnut season—grab roasted Maroni from street stands.
Attend Vienna Design Week or the viennacontemporary Art Fair for creative inspiration.
Plan for cooler nights—bring layers for evening outings.
Use public transport to reach wine villages and festival venues.
Vienna in September at a glance
🌧️
Weather
Maximum temperature: 24°C
Minimum temperature: 18°C
☀️
Daylight
Around 12 hours 40 minutes of daylight
Sunrise: 6:30am
Sunset: 7:10pm
🎉
Key events
viennacontemporary art fair, MQ Vienna Fashion Week
👥
Crowds
Balanced crowds, with manageable queues and a mix of tourists and local visitors in the city.
🧳
What to pack
Light jacket, comfortable shoes, scarf, layers for cool evenings, camera.
🍽️
Seasonal treats
Sturm (new wine) at heuriger taverns, roasted chestnuts, grape must pastries at harvest festivals
