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Solo travel in vienna: the best things to see & do.

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Updated: 24 September 2023

What’s not to love about Vienna? I’ve always been intrigued by Austria’s elegance, such as ornate and glorious cafes, and top-notch opera performances. A trip to the country’s capital, Vienna, is high on most European bucket lists.

I’m also proof that solo travel in Vienna is marvelous, everyone. As you know, Vienna is the capital of Austria, and definitely one of the many beautiful places that you should add to your Central Europe travel itinerary . 

When I first visited this Baroque Beauty, Vienna’s wide streets, artistic cafes, and grand opera house inspired me to embrace my “classy side.” I was smitten, no doubt.

So what did I do in Vienna? What any sane existentially confused twentysomething does. I spent a total of five days exploring Vienna without a concrete plan.

Believe me, this slow pace was much needed after weeks of living in hostels and having my entire wardrobe come out out of a single backpack. One of my most important tips for how to plan a solo trip to Europe is to build in a bit of “down time”.

Not to mention, I loved that Vienna seemed more “real” to me than other popular cities. I went in July, so, of course, tourists mingled with the locals, but even Vienna’s “touristy areas” didn’t feel tacky and fake to me. It was a breath of fresh air. 

Table of Contents

Your Guide for Travelling Alone in Vienna

As you all know, I love chatting about solo travel on this blog. My mission is for even the quietest person to break free and go anywhere in this astonishing place that we call “our world.”

Personally, I think Europe is a wonderful first continent to go traveling solo. And for all you ladies reading this, check out my 25 tips for solo travel in Europe to help you plan the adventure of your dreams. 

Since Vienna embodies a lot of Europe’s most positive qualities, such as great public transportation, adorable cafes, and abundant art museums, I obviously had to write about this city as your next perfect European escape. 

I’d even say Vienna is a great option for new solo travelers, even people who’ve never left their home country.

Reasons Solo Travel in Vienna is a Great Choice

So, why is solo travel in Vienna such a great choice?

Vienna Has Lots of Attractions

First and foremost, there are so many things to do alone in Vienna, you guys. Museums, cafes, operas, and amusement parks all lend themselves well to solo travel. You can enjoy them with new friends from your hostel or entirely on your own. 

Not to mention, in my experience, Austrians were fairly reserved. You’re not going to feel like you stick out like a sore thumb as a lone traveler in Vienna. It’s simple to disappear into the crowd. 

Vienna is Safe for Solo Travel

Furthermore, Vienna has fewer scams than other popular tourist cities in Europe such as Rome and Paris. You won’t have to “be on your guard” nearly as much, which is wonderful, since you’re the only person watching your valuables. For example, I didn’t notice any pickpockets or shady characters lurking near Vienna’s biggest attractions.

Vienna Can Work for Budget Travels

I’m honest, though. Vienna isn’t all perfect.

The only major drawback to visiting Vienna as a solo traveler is the, uh, expense. Vienna isn’t a cheap city, especially compared to nearby Budapest and Prague (although prices are increasing in those two cities, too). Travelers on a strict budget need to stay mindful in Vienna. 

Luckily, Vienna does have some pretty great hostels (more on them later), as well as markets to purchase reasonably priced food. Not to mention, wandering Vienna’s gorgeous streets without paying big admission prices is still an enjoyable way to spend your vacation.

9 Reasons to Solo Travel in Vienna

Not quite sold on Vienna yet? Still thinking you’re better off sticking to even bigger cities or that Austria might be too boring for your tastes?

Don’t worry! I’ll convince you to pack your bags, book an airline ticket, and visit Vienna within the month, haha.

As always, do your research ahead of time, before leaving for Vienna.

I personally recommend bringing a city guide book to help you plan your adventures. Lonely Planet’s Guide to Vienna is a wonderful addition to this guide.

Happy reading! 

Vienna is Absolutely Gorgeous

Vienna’s one of the most beautiful cities that I’ve ever visited in my life. I regret not taking more pictures on my trip, alas.

Particularly, what makes Vienna so unique is the city’s endless and abundant examples of Baroque architecture. As a style, Baroque is very ornate with plentiful curves and oval shapes that make the buildings appear wavy from a distance. 

One way to get accustomed with Vienna’s buildings and learn a bit of history is to take a walking tour . I always advocate for walking tours, because not only do you learn a lot about a new city, but these tours offer a great chance to bond with other travelers. 

Vienna has Amazing Palaces inside the City

Are you a huge fan of European palaces? Then you’re in luck!

In Vienna, you don’t have to travel outside the city to see incredible palaces that are, in my opinion, on par with Versailles. Vienna is home to some of Europe’s greatest palaces.

Unsurprisingly, my favorite palace of all is Schönbrunn Palace which was the primary summer residence of the Habsburg rulers. Regardless of your opinion on the Habsburgs (or royals in general), Schönbrunn’s guided audio tour breathes life into history. It’s one of the better audio tours that I’ve done in Europe, for sure, and you won’t feel out of place going all by yourself. 

If you’re limited on time, then book a skip-the-line combo tour of the palace and Vienna’s historical city to see everything in three and a half hours. 

Even if you’re not the type who likes audioguides, I’d still recommend going to Schönbrunn Palace on a sunny day to enjoy the splendid gardens. Go get lost in the maze, even! 

Cafes are Meant for Solo Travelers

Vienna is home to tons of cafes. Tons and tons and tons of cafes. 

Like nearby Budapest, it’s simple to slip inside these cafes, settle in with a coffee and cake, and do some good old-fashioned people watching. 

It was way too easy to tempt this solo traveler with a slice of Scahertortre.

Vienna has its share of historically rich cafes, but wander the streets and find some hidden treats, too.

For example, one of the cutest cafes in all of Vienna is Cafe NEKO. Why did I love this place so much? Because Cafe NEKO is a self-proclaimed cat cafe. Yup, you’re allowed to cuddle and play with the resident cats as you enjoy your fine coffee and cake. This is a total dream scenario for solo travelers in Vienna, especially for people who might start to feel a tad homesick. 

All in all, you don’t want to skip over the cafes on when seeing Vienna alone. A personal tip would be to go to Vienna in the summer and sip your coffee outside! Outstanding people watching.

Biking into the Countryside is Fabulous

Vienna is surprisingly bike friendly for such a big city. Designated bike lanes make it easy for cycles to zip throughout the city. 

By seeing Vienna on two wheels rather than two legs, you’re able to venture out into the nearby Austrian countryside. Vienna is located on the Danube River, which makes for especially scenic biking. It’s easy enough to rent a bike on your own.

However, if you’re nervous about exploring Vienna alone, then you can always sign up for a Vienna City Bike tour where you can zoom around the city and make new travel pals at the same time.

Lastly, beautiful and lush countryside surrounds Vienna. So, if you have a few days to spare in Vienna, you can even plan a biking trip to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Wachau and enjoy Austria’s best wines! And yes, you can also do a guided bike tour of Wachau that includes wine tastings, too.

Don’t worry, rookies. Even beginners will find that riding a bike is one of the best things to do alone in Vienna. 

Find Old School Entertainment at Prater Park

Amusement parts promise smiles. And you’ll feel that same childlike joy when you go to visit Prater Park .

Prater is easy to visit using Vienna’s public transportation system. Once at the park, you can go on rides like bumper cars and small roller coasters, and also try your luck at the park’s many games. 

Without a doubt, Prater’s most famous attraction is Wiener Riesenrad. It was constructed in the late 1800s, and considered the tallest ferris wheel for many decades after its creation.

Despite the high price, riding Wiener Riesenrad is a fun way to see Vienna from the sky. Keep in mind that Prater Park is crowded in summer. As a single traveler, it might be wise to purchase your tickets for Wiener Riesenrad ahead of time. 

Go Get Lost in an Art Museum

Vienna has an unlimited supply of art museums. I love surrounding myself with incredible art especially when I’m alone and can take my time absorbing the pieces that interest me the most.

Not gonna lie … it’s easy for me to stare at an intriguing painting for a good give minutes. 

As for Vienna, my favorite art museum was the Belvedere. The park and its two Baroque palaces are classified as a World Heritage Site. So it’s worth enjoying a morning stroll around green space near the museum even if you’re not a fan of art.

However, I highly recommend going inside. You’ll see Gustav Klimt’s masterpiece, “The Kiss,” among some of his other works. 

I highly recommend buying tickets to the Belvedere in advance to skip the line. Like all popular museums, the summer month bring in the tourist crowds. So consider the time of year for your solo trip to Vienna.

Lonely? Watch Films at an Open-Air Cinema

Even if you’re the most confident person, sometimes you feel lonely traveling alone through an unfamiliar city. Those emotions are natural and normal. I’ve been there more times than I can count on both hands.

If you’re alone in Vienna in the summer, then I recommend going to an Open-Air Cinema and catching a film with all the city’s residents surrounding you. 

Vienna has plenty of options for outdoor movies. Do your research ahead of time, and find a film that you’ll truly enjoy! All tastes are represented here. 

Experience High Quality of Life

Is it safe to travel alone in Vienna? Absolutely!

Not only is Vienna a super secure place, but did you know the Austrian capital is known for its high quality of life?

According to the  World Economic Forum,  Vienna has the highest quality of life out of any major city. It’s impressive, and makes me kinda sorta jealous of the residents. 

Like I said earlier in this guide, Vienna is a wonderful place to just …  be.  You don’t need to have a specific agenda to sip a fancy cup of coffee and relax under trees near splendid palaces. 

Solo travel in Vienna is even better due to the high quality of life.

Vienna is a Wonderful Base for Other Cities.

Last but not least, the final reason to try solo travel in Vienna is that connections to other cities are frequent and easy.

Wanna check out Budapest? Hop on a train and go soak in the outdoor spa baths.

Want to do a weekend in Salzburg ? You’ve plenty of train options to see the land of “The Sound of Music,” my friend. 

Since it’s a capital city, Vienna connections to the majority of cities in Austria, as well as plenty of other destinations in Central Europe. Take advantage of it. 

And, as a solo traveler, don’t worry about transportation in this region. Trains are clean and reliable. Just make sure to validate your ticket ahead of time. You don’t want to pay a fine, do you?

Like I said above, Lonely Planet makes great guidebooks. A Lonely Planet Guide to Austria is a wonderful tool for planning your itinerary in this charming country.

Solo Travel in Vienna: Practical Tips

Vienna solo travel packing list.

• Comfortable Walking Shoes:  Vienna has lots of cobblestone streets (spoiler alert). Wear comfortable shoes so you won’t have many issues riding a bike or walking through the city. Now is not the time for super high heels. 
• Lonely Planet Guide Vienna:  Lonely Planet makes my absolute favorite guidebooks! If you don’t have much space in your bag, then invest in a tiny pocket guide to Vienna that is still packed with plenty of information about the best things to see and do in Vienna.
• Small Day Pack:  For city visits, I personally love to have a lightweight and comfortable backpack. Tumi makes my favorite products. They are pricier but they last FOREVER. For example, this Tumi backpack is the perfect size and weight for any solo trip to Vienna. 
• Sony Mirrorless Camera:  Smartphone cameras take great pictures, but if you want to improve your photography skills, then I personally suggest investing in a Sony Mirrorless Camera for your trip to Vienna. It is light enough to carry around the city, while still taking high-quality photographs.
• Travel Insurance:  Vienna is remarkably safe, but you still want to protect yourself as a solo traveler, and that means buying travel insurance . I use World Nomads for my trips and have had zero issues so far!

Where Should I Stay in Vienna?

Solo travel in Vienna might feel daunting, because you have to research accommodation all on your own.

Luckily for you, Vienna has tons of great options for cheap and nice places to rest your head at night.

For solo travelers, Wombats Hostel in Naschmarkt is a wonderful option. Wombats is a great chain as in the hostels are affordable, clean, and sociable. Not to mention, Naschmarkt is Vienna’s most popular market where you can purchase fresh breads, cheeses, fruits, vegetables, and so much more. You can’t beat the central location.

Happy travels! I promise you’ll love solo travel in Vienna. Just don’t blame me if you don’t want to come back to your home country. 

Hostels in Vienna

• Hostel Ruthensteiner: Since opening its doors in 1968, this is one of the most iconic hostels in all of Vienna. The scenic garden and terrace are added bonuses! See prices on Booking.com
• Vienna Boutique Hostel:   Are you seeking a more “high end” hostel on your solo trip to Vienna? Then check out this boutique hostel that has all the comforts of home. See prices on Booking.com
• Wombats City Hostel Vienna Naschmarkt: Wombats has many wonderful chain hostels around Europe, and this location is absolutely perfect! See prices on Expedia.com and Booking.com

Did I convince you to solo travel in Vienna? Haha, I bet I did. As for those of you who’ve been to Vienna, what advice would you give solo travelers coming to this city? What did you love most about your visit to Vienna? Share in the comments!

Rachel Elizabeth

At 22, I took my first overseas trip to Bermuda. Took a break to follow the "American Dream." Had my self-esteem broken. Embarked on my first solo trip to Scotland at 26. The travel bug dug its way under my skin. I now book multiple trips a year.

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Vienna Solo Travel Guide

Planning a solo trip to Vienna ? Here’s everything you need to know for your visit:

QUICK FACTS

• Largest city (and capital) of Austria, with a population of 1.9 million .
• Vienna’s city centre has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
• Recognized as the world’s top destinations for congresses and conventions.
• Located on the Danube river, the city has a rich 2000 year long history.
• Nicknames: V, ViVi, the Imperial City

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

• Currency:  Euro  (EUR).
• Spoken languages: predominantly  German (English common in tourist areas).
• Best time to visit: from  April  to October  (mild continental climate).
• Arriving via airport: take the regular train (€4.20), because the CAT (City Airport Train) is only a few minutes faster and costs  €11. Avoid the taxi stand (if you must, pre-book a taxi from inside the terminal which should cost between 30-40 Euros). Uber and Bolt are also options.

WHERE TO STAY

• Best Vienna hostel for solo travelers: Ruthensteiner . Cozy and welcoming atmosphere – a true “home away from home” experience. Very clean facilities and sleeping areas. Great common room for socializing. Good location, right next to a metro station and supermarket (walking distance to city centre, and 4 minutes from the Westbahnhoff train station). Book ahead to reserve your spot!
• Areas around the main tourist attractions ( Mariahlfer Strasse , Innere Stadt , Rathaus , Karlsplatz ) are expensive, but convenient.
• More affordable options can be found farther away from the city centre (close to metro stations).

GETTING AROUND

• The city’s excellent transport system ( Wiener Linien ) includes trams, buses, and the subway. Single rides are €2.20, 24 hour passes cost €7.60, and 3-day passes are €16.50.
• Uber and Bolt are the most popular ride sharing services in Vienna (much better than a taxi).
• There are over 120 Citybike ( bike rental ) stations in Vienna. Register by credit card at a station or online. First hour of every trip is free.
• Trains: take the Westbahn (between Vienna and Salzburg), or OBB (across the whole country).

VIENNA NIGHTLIFE

• Drinking age is  18 , no official last call (some clubs are open all night).
• Casual / student bars in Vienna: Dick Macks Irish Pub, The Look Bar, Sparky’s unlimited Bar & Grill, Pickwick’s (hipster), Travel Shack Vienna (gets wild), Lukas Bar (cozy, hidden).
• Great beer : Délirium Café Vienna, Hawidere Bier und Burger, Känguruh Pub.
• Night clubs with a younger crowd: Babenberger Passage, Flex, U4 Vienna, The Loft, Prater Dome, and Club U.
• Techno / House clubs: Volksgarten Club, Pratersauna.
• Up and coming scene: under the subway station at the Gurtel Ring Road .

UNIQUE LANDMARKS TO VISIT

• Of the city’s many historical attractions, the Imperial landmarks stand out. Check out the museums at the Hofburg Imperial Palace , the Sissi Museum , the Treasury and the Spanish Riding School .
• The Ringstrasse features many of the most important buildings and sights in Vienna, including the Opera , Fine Arts Museum , Parliament , City Hall , and the Burgtheater .
• If you have time, take a day trip to the Schonbrunn Palace . With exceptional architecture and treasures, it is the site of one of the best zoos in Europe ( Schonbrunn Zoo ).
• For a magnificent view of the city, check out the (new) modern Danube Tower .

INTERESTING WALKS

• Walk along the Ringstrasse to take in all the top tourist sites.
• A historical tour: walk from St. Stephan Cathedral towards the Hofburg Palace, through the Natural History and Fine Arts Museums, the MuseumsQuartier, towards Parliament Building and City Hall (Rathaus). End your tour at the Votivkirche.
• Walk along the Danube banks or the take a walk in the City Park.
• Tip : when you get tired of all the walking, relax on a boat tour of the Danube.

LOCAL WISDOM

• Bring a light jacket (it can get chilly and windy in the evenings, even during springtime). Another good idea is to bring an umbrella , as it can start raining any time.
• One of the best experiences in Vienna is the world famous Christmas Fair . The entire city transforms – many small traditional shops appear in front of the City Hall and in Schonbrunn Palace. The fair takes place for several weeks before Christmas.
• Great restaurants in Vienna for foodies: Steman ($$ – Austrian), Sang Sang ($$ – Korean), Mama Liu & Sons ($$ – Chinese), Restaurant Mraz & Sohn ($$$$),
• Vegan restaurants: Velani ($$ – Austrian), Vevi Restaurant ($$ – Vietnamese), Hollerei ($$ – vegetarian with vegan options).
• Where to find good cheap eats : while you’re in town, try the world famous Austrian strudel or the  wiener schnitzel – two of the best specialties in Vienna. For lunch on a budget, go to the deli counter of a supermarket – often, they have a sandwich service (you pick the ingredients).
• Do not carry any  valuables  on you. Take only the cash you need with you. Never take your wallet out in public to count money.
• Dangerous areas : Vienna is one of the safest cities in Europe. In any case, exercise caution. Avoid less crowded areas and subway stations at night.

Recommended trip duration:  3-4 days

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2 replies on “Vienna Solo Travel Guide”

[…] Excellent guide to Vienna […]

I had the pleasure of visiting Vienna recently and it was a truly memorable trip. The city is absolutely beautiful, with grand old buildings and stunning modern structures. I was particularly impressed by the Schönbrunn Palace and the Kunsthistorisches Museum, both of which had impressive collections. The food was also delicious, particularly the pastries and coffee. Overall, I would highly recommend a visit to Vienna to anyone and I can’t wait to go back and explore more of this wonderful city.

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Solo Travel In Vienna: How To Have An Amazing Trip Traveling Alone

By Nina Ahmedow. This solo travel Vienna post contains affiliate links to trusted partners!

Curious about how to safely enjoy solo travel in Vienna and have an incredible trip?

Then you’re in the right place!

Vienna has a reputation for being an extremely beautiful city, putting it high on many travelers’ lists of dream destinations. But what if you have nobody to go to the Austrian capital with?

Don’t worry, it’s super easy to have a great time in the City of Music — even when traveling on your own!

In fact, there are so many things to see and do in Vienna that going with another person might be overwhelming. After all, trying to coordinate which sights to see, where to eat, and deciding on a budget can be quite stressful.

But when you travel alone you don’t have to worry about any of that because you set all the rules yourself.

If you’re still concerned about what to do in Austria’s capital, here’s your ultimate solo travel guide to Vienna.

Vienna Solo Travel Top Picks: Save Money: Save money during your solo trip to Vienna by getting a Vienna PASS , which includes access to 60 attractions as well as a hop on, hop off bus ticket! Experiences: A few top-rated tours in Vienna include: – Hidden Gems in Vienna Inner City Private Walking Tour – Wachau Valley Small-Group Tour and Wine Tasting – Vienna City Bike Tour Click here for a full list of Vienna tours . Accommodation: This accommodation map showcases hotels and vacation rentals with prices in District 2 – one of the best areas to stay in Vienna. You can easily adjust the map to fit your location preferences. Safety: While Vienna is safe for solo travel, it’s still smart to pack travel safety essentials . One top pick is the She’s Birdie Personal Safety Alarm , which is TSA-approved and can help scare away potential attackers. Other recommendations include Clever Travel Companion Pickpocket-Proof Garments and Speakeasy Travel Supply Hidden Pocket Scarves .

Table of Contents

Enjoy Solo Travel In Vienna With Confidence [Free Course]

But first, before we dive into this guide to solo female travel in Vienna , I want to invite you to grab access to the free Savvy Solo Traveler ecourse, which can help you successfully plan your  first solo travel experience !

The six-day ecourse is designed to help you feel confident about booking your solo trip and exploring the world alone. Lessons include:

• Common solo travel fears and how to overcome them
• How to choose your perfect solo trip
• How to tell loved ones you’re hitting the road solo
• Mentally preparing for your solo journey without losing your mind
• Essential steps for staying safe on a solo trip
• How to travel by yourself and take amazing solo selfies

Grab your seat in the course here !

Then keep reading to learn everything you need to know about how to travel in Vienna solo.

Where Is Vienna Located?

Let’s kick things off by giving you a lay of the land.

Vienna is located in northeastern Austria, which is one of the most popular European destinations .

But, where is Austria ?

The country itself is located in Central Europe and shares borders with the Czech Republic and Germany to the north, Slovakia, and Hungary to the east, Slovenia and Italy to the south, and Switzerland and Liechtenstein to the west.

Here is a Vienna map to help give you a visual:

Click here for an interactive version of the above map .

Why Vienna Is A Great Destination For Solo Travelers

If you’re looking for an amazing solo travel Europe experience, Vienna should definitely be on your list.

Now, one thing you may be wondering about is safety in Vienna. First of all, Vienna’s crime rate is consistently ranked as one of the lowest in the world, which helps to make it a safe and enjoyable place for solo travel.

Moreover, Vienna has been ranked the world’s most livable city in the Mercer Quality of Living Survey continuously since 2009! So if a city is the most livable in the world it sure must be safe for solo travelers, as well.

Moreover, 30% of the Viennese population is single. If the city is safe enough for single women to live in then you don’t have to worry about spending a few days alone.

But aside from these statistics, Vienna has a great public transport system with which you can get pretty much anywhere and well-lit streets so you don’t have to worry about being out after dark.

On top of that, Vienna is home to a multicultural population — meaning that if you ever do need help you’ll probably find someone who can assist you in your native language.

And although German is the only official language in Austria, everyone learns English in school.

Even when it comes to things to see and do in Vienna you’ll have an advantage as a solo traveler. The many museums, churches, and architectural sights can easily be visited without a second person. You definitely won’t get bored when traveling solo in Vienna!

Because Vienna is a very popular tourist destination there is also a lot of information available in English. Whether you’re thinking about joining a walking tour or simply want to walk through the museums with an audio tour, the city’s tourism sites are well-prepared for international visitors.

As the capital of Austria, Vienna is an absolute must-visit city, and there’s no reason to skip it just because you’re traveling solo . In fact, it might be one of the best cities in Europe to explore alone.

On that note, here is more information about what you need to know when visiting Vienna on your own.

Arriving Into Vienna

Vienna has an international airport just outside of the city. It connects to downtown Vienna via the public transport system so all you have to do is take the S7 metro and you’ll be in central Vienna in less than 30 minutes.

The ticket costs €4.20 and is valid for further transportation in Vienna as well. There are also other trains and buses from the airport to Vienna, but the S7 is the most convenient as well as the cheapest option.

You might also arrive into Vienna from Bratislava which is just an hour away by train. In that case, you’ll pay €13 for a return ticket which takes you from Bratislava’s central station to Vienna’s central station.

People often arrive from Bratislava because they’re visiting both cities. But it’s also common to fly into Bratislava with one of the cheaper airlines and go to Vienna directly.

To get to Vienna from Bratislava airport you simply get on one of the shuttle buses which leave about once per hour. A ticket costs between €10 and €15 and the ride usually takes about 60 to 90 minutes.

Getting Around In Vienna

Public transport in Vienna is excellent. There are five underground lines (U1-4, U6) and ten fast trains (S1-4, S7, S40, S45, S50, S60, S80). Additionally, there are 29 tram lines and numerous bus lines, including several night buses.

The tickets for all public transport in Vienna are essentially the same — with a few exceptions such as airport shuttle buses. This means that if you change from tram to metro to bus you won’t have to buy a new ticket.

You can get tickets at metro stations and on trams and buses; however, the machines on trams and buses only have single tickets.

Note that while you don’t have to validate your tickets or show them to the driver, it’s possible for ticket inspectors to approach you and ask to see your ticket.

The underground lines run between 5am and 12:30am. Additionally, on Friday and Saturday nights as well as the nights before public holidays they run all night.

During the day you won’t have to wait more than six minutes at most for a train, and even on weekend nights they still run every 15 minutes.

The fast trains in the city centre run as often as the underground, but some of the ones that serve the suburbs are far less frequent. As a tourist, you will most likely stay in the city center though so you’ll never have to wait long for a train.

Note that not all buses and trams run until 12:30 am. Night buses are available between 12:45am and 5am. During the week they run every 30 minutes — and more frequently on weekends.

If you prefer being a bit more active it’s entirely possible to get around Vienna by bike. This is an excellent way to remain flexible and independent.

You can also take your bike onto the metro for free, but not onto buses or trams. Note that bikes are only allowed on the metro from Monday to Friday between 9am and 3pm and after 6:30pm, as well as Saturdays from 9am and all day on Sundays.

You can also take your bike onto the fast trains, but you have to purchase an extra bike ticket. In any case, this is a great option if you want to explore some of the suburbs by bike.

Of course, you can also get around on foot. Many of the important sites are actually located in the city centre within walking distance from each other.

In fact, this is probably the best way to get around as a tourist because you’ll often stumble upon beautiful buildings and gorgeous views. Just make sure to wear a comfortable pair of shoes.

Finally, taxis are an option as well, but be aware that if the taxi takes you out of the city borders you have to pay for its fare back as taxis from Vienna are not allowed to pick up passengers outside of the city.

Where To Eat When Traveling Solo In Vienna

Vienna is famous for a variety of dishes such as Wiener Schnitzel and especially desserts like Sachertorte and Kaiserschmarrn.

Nowadays, most restaurants offer vegetarian dishes and there are numerous vegan restaurants in Vienna as well. There’s really something to eat for everyone in the city.

But first let’s do away with the common misconception that eating alone is somehow weird.

It can be very difficult to get used to eating alone when you travel solo, but I promise that over time you will get used to it and won’t think twice about the possibility that people might look at you funny. Bringing a book, a journal, or another quiet activity to enjoy while you eat can help ease any awkwardness you feel.

A must-visit on your trip to Vienna is a typical Viennese coffee house . These don’t only serve coffee but also traditional Viennese dishes. They are an important part of Viennese history, and Viennese Coffee House Culture is even listed by UNESCO as an intangible cultural heritage.

Similarly, Wirtshäuser are places where you can get typical Viennese dishes and experience traditional Viennese hospitality.

However, keep in mind that Vienna is a multicultural city and locals don’t usually stick to eating Viennese food. Rather, there’s a variety of international restaurants whether you’re craving Italian, Chinese, or Japanese cuisine.

Where To Stay In Vienna

Because Vienna has such a great public transport system you really don’t have to worry too much about where you stay.

While the Old Town is a lovely area it’s also quite expensive in terms of accommodation. In general, you will have to plan a higher trip budget for accommodation in Vienna than in some other cities in the region.

Another thing to keep in mind is that many Viennese hotels are housed in historic buildings. And while these hotels may be very beautiful to look at, they’re not always as spacious as you may expect from a hotel room.

Furthermore, keep in mind that air conditioning is not as common in Austria as in North America and some other regions — so if you travel to Vienna in the summer you may want to specifically look for places with air conditioning.

Districts 2 to 9 are probably your best bet for finding a reasonably priced and well-connected place to stay.

Whether you’re looking for a luxury hotel, an apartment, or a hostel, all those options are available in the center of Vienna.

Click here for a list of Vienna hotels!

Prefer self-contained stays? 

Click here to check out unique local rentals , or use the map below to search for local stays. It’s currently set to District 2, but you can easily change it to your preferred base:

11 Things To Do As A Solo Traveler In Vienna

Now that you know how to get to Vienna, how to get around, where to stay, and where to eat it’s time to take a look at all the incredible experiences to be had. Here are a few things to do in Vienna.

Remember, one of the biggest solo travel benefits is having ultimate freedom over your schedule, so feel free to adapt the below suggestions to suit your itinerary. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend, a month, or simply have 4 days in Vienna , don’t miss:

1. Visit The Museums – A Highlight Of Vienna Travel

Is it fun to travel alone ? Well, if you love museums, Vienna is an absolute paradise.

From the Museum of Fine Arts to the Museum of Natural History to the Albertina to the different museums in the Museumsquartier you could probably spend weeks in Vienna only visiting its museums.

The best thing to do is to have a look at all the different museums and create a list of the ones that interest you the most. There are museums for any kind of interest, such as a Freud museum, a Jewish museum, a music museum, and even an anatomy museum.

Even if you’re not usually the biggest fan of museums you should visit one or two of them to learn about Vienna and its history.

2. Marvel At Viennese Architecture

Walk through the Old Town and be stunned by the beautiful historic buildings in the city.

The Ring Road is a circular road that surrounds the Old Town and showcases some extraordinary buildings from the second half of the 19th century.

As an alternative to walking the Ring Road, you can take Tram 1 or 2 to have a look at the typical Ring Road architecture.

3. Explore Vienna’s Castles

As the capital of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, Vienna doesn’t only have one castle, of course. The Hofburg and the Belvedere make quite an impression and also house important museum collections now.

Neugebäude Palace was the main imperial palace until the completion of Schönbrunn Palace. While it’s no longer as glorious as it once used to be it’s still worth a visit if you like palaces.

Unless you have a lot of time in Vienna you probably won’t be able to visit all the palaces and their museums. The best thing you can do is read a bit about each one of them to decide where to go.

In any case, you’re sure to be wowed by the marvelous architecture of the Habsburg dynasty. Don’t forget to take your camera for some amazing photos of the castles and their gardens.

4. Visit The Beautiful Schönbrunn Palace

This baroque castle made it onto the list of UNESCO World Heritage sites for a reason.

A stroll through the extensive gardens of Schönbrunn Palace provides a feel of what it must have been like to be a member of the Habsburg monarchs, who once use this as their summer residence.

There are guided tours that tell you more about life at Austria’s biggest palace — like this private tour , this small-group tour , and this skip-the-line tour .

As one of Austria’s most visited sights the palace can get quite busy, so if possible try to avoid the weekends.

5. Attend A Classical Music Concert

Vienna is often known as the City of Music thanks to the city’s important role in the rise of classical music.

But don’t worry, you don’t have to get expensive tickets for the Vienna Hofburg Orchestra . It’s actually possible to see a classical concert in Vienna for no more than €5.

How, you may ask?

Well, there is a contingent of tickets for the standing room at both the Musikverein and the Vienna State Opera House .

While it’s not as comfortable a seat as the Hofburg Orchestra it’s a great budget-friendly option for those wanting to hear some of the music Vienna is famous for.

Just note that there are far fewer performances in the summer months.

And if you’re into the organ repertoire St. Peter’s Church has free concerts every day.

6. Take A Look At The Hundertwasserhaus

Vienna isn’t only about its historic buildings. Sometimes its modern architecture has even more of a magical feel than the palaces of the past.

The Hundertwasserhaus — designed by Friedensreich Hundertwasser and built by Josef Krawina — is an apartment building meant for both humans as well as trees.

Its rooftop has been turned into a park by planting hundreds of bushes and trees. When taking photos of the building keep in mind that these are regular apartments that people live in so try not to be intrusive.

7. Go On A Tour Of Vienna

There are various city tours whether you want to explore Vienna on bike, on foot, or by bus.

There are both general tours that give you an overview of the city’s main sights as well as tours that focus on specific topics or areas, such as Sigmund Freud tours or Jewish tours.

Guided tours can be an excellent way to get a feel for a city and figure out which sights you want to go back and visit again. But guided tours are also one of the best ways to meet fellow tourists as a solo traveler, so it’s a win-win situation.

Both free as well as paid tours are available in Vienna in English so you don’t need to worry about your lack of German skills.

Here is a quick list of some highly-rated tours & experiences in Vienna:

• Visiting the Spanish Riding School
• Private One Day Trip to Bratislava from Vienna
• Kunsthistorisches Museum Vienna and Imperial Treasury of Vienna Tour
• Wachau Valley Small-Group Tour and Wine Tasting from Vienna
• Hidden Gems in Vienna Inner City Private Walking Tour
• Vienna City Bike Tour

Click here for a full list of Vienna tours !

You can also get a Flexi Vienna PASS to save money on attractions and experiences.

8. Go On A Music Walk

Many classical composers lived and worked in Vienna, and there are statues all over the city honoring them. In fact, you can also visit the former homes of musicians like Mozart, Beethoven, and Strauss.

There are many interesting tours that allow you to explore this, like a Mozart Private Guided Tour with Classical Music Concert or Music in Vienna Tour .

Moreover, the Vienna Central Cemetery is one of the largest cemeteries in the world and a nice spot for a walk. This is where you will find the graves of people like Beethoven, Brahms, Schubert, and Schönberg. Explore on your own or a book a tour like this one for a deeper understanding of this place.

9. Visit St. Stephen’s Cathedral

St. Stephen’s Cathedral is Vienna’s most popular landmark and is well worth a visit for the incredible views you get from the spire.

Additionally, they host concerts which you can attend. Tickets can be found here . It’s truly magical to hear classical music concerts in such a unique venue.

Bonus: From St. Stephen’s you’re about a 20-minute walk from the stunning Vienna City Hall , a magnificent building built between 1872 to 1883 and showcasing a Neo-Gothic style.

10. Check Out The Street Art In Vienna

As in any modern city, you can find plenty of very beautiful graffiti in Vienna.

Along the Danube Canal beneath a few bridges, there are officially approved areas for graffiti artists. They’re a great example of how street art can enhance the look of a city.

Street Art Passage is another collection of colorful art in a tunnel that leads up to the MuseumsQuartier. It’s quite the contrast to the exhibitions inside the museums.

If you’re a really big street art fan you’ll be thrilled to find out that Vienna even has an annual street art festival called Calle Libre which takes place at the beginning of August.

There are also street art tours, like this one , that can help you find and understand these local urban masterpieces.

With all the historic sights you visit in Vienna, keeping your eyes open for some modern street art can be a welcome break. Because while we travel to learn more about a place’s history we also want to see what life is like there in the present.

11. Explore Vienna Beyond The Main Sites

Vienna has so many top attractions that you can easily spend a few days or even weeks visiting them all. But there are also plenty of things that are less popular and still worth a visit.

First of all, you can book a hyper-focused tour — like a Queer Vienna Tour or a Vienna Secrets Walking Tour to Backyards and Mysterious Locations Tour — to learn about places and stories left out of many traditional Vienna tourism experiences.

Additionally, simply strolling through the side streets or perhaps getting off the bus one stop early and walking the rest of the way could possibly make you stumble upon a lively market or a square that is a local secret. There are also a ton of parks where you can relax or maybe even have your lunch if you take it to go.

Here are a few suggestions of neighborhoods that don’t usually make it onto Vienna guides:

• Spittelberg used to be an independent village and the remarkable buildings from the middle of the 19th century are in pretty good condition.
• Ottakring is a multicultural Vienna neighborhood where about one-fourth of the population does not hold Austrian citizenship.
• Karmeliterviertel has a strong Orthodox Jewish influence.

Walking through any of these areas gives you a feel for Vienna that cannot be portrayed in museums.

For some not-so-pleasant background information on some of the beautiful streets in Vienna, you should know that there are sadly still several streets with racist names or names honoring known anti-Semites .

Solo Travel Tips For Vienna

As you can see, Vienna is truly one of the world’s top solo female travel destinations . Now that we’ve discussed things to do when visiting Vienna solo, let’s go over some important tips for staying safe and making the most of your trip.

Opening hours might differ from what you are used to. Most shops open between 8am and 9am and close between 6pm and 7pm, except Sunday when all shops and even many restaurants are closed.

The Viennese climate has a shorter spring and fall and longer summers and winters. While the summers can get quite hot you should also be prepared for the possibility of rainy days, but more so in spring and fall. Winters don’t get as cold as one might expect in Austria, but they can still be quite uncomfortable due to the humidity. Make sure to check the weather forecast before your trip so you can pack accordingly.

Don’t expect the friendliest service at restaurants and bars. The Viennese are notorious for being quite reserved and can even be perceived as rude or arrogant. Try to simply enjoy the fact that you will be left alone while eating your meal.

The tap water in Vienna is of exceptionally high quality so there’s no need to buy bottled water . The water comes from the Alps not far from the city so whether you’re at a restaurant, Airbnb, or in your hotel you can simply drink tap water. There are also fountains in the city center and in many parks if you’re out and about and get thirsty.

The currency in Austria is the Euro. You can often pay by debit or credit card, but you should always have some cash on you, just in case.

You can get free WiFi at most restaurants, cafés, and bars as well as at your accommodation. The entire MuseumsQuartier also has free WiFi available and there are numerous WiFi hotspots throughout the city. If you leave the city itself you may need to purchase an Austrian SIM card to be able to stay connected.

If you’re looking for souvenirs make sure to leave the typical tourist shops. Museum shops are more likely to sell authentic local products as are smaller boutiques or specialty shops.

There is no need to worry about getting completely lost in Vienna. Any street sign first displays a number which is the number of the district you are in. The tourist information center and the City of Vienna have free city maps available so that even if you lose internet connection you will be able to find your way around. But of course, you can always ask locals for help.

Solo Travel to Vienna FAQs

Still have some concerns about Vienna solo female travel? Hopefully, these FAQs can help!

Q) What are the best things to do alone in Vienna?

Wondering what to do alone in Vienna? The options are truly unlimited! The museums in Vienna are perfect for exploring alone, as are the castles, and there are countless tours you can join. Plus just wandering the historic streets can be fun!

Q) Is Vienna safe to travel alone?

Yes, Vienna is a safe city for solo travel. It has a pretty well-traversed tourism network and great public transportation. As long as you take the regular precautions that you would at home, you should encounter no issues in Vienna.

Q) Is Vienna good for solo travel?

Yes, Vienna is a great city for solo travelers. There are so many things to do in Vienna alone plus the city has excellent public transportation and many food options.

Vienna Travel Insurance

When visiting Vienna — or anywhere else in the world — make sure to get travel insurance.

One of the best travel medical insurance for travelers is SafetyWing as they’ve got a large network and offer both short-term and long-term coverage — including coverage if you’re traveling for months as well as limited coverage in your home country.

Additionally, SafetyWing is budget-friendly and offers $250,000 worth of coverage with just one low overall deductible of $250.

Click here to price out travel insurance for your trip in just a few clicks .

What tips for solo travel in Vienna would you add?

About The Author

Nina Ahmedow is a travel content creator who was born and raised in Germany, has lived in Canada, currently lives in Greece, and loves traveling to Austria. She is the voice behind Lemons and Luggage , a travel blog dedicated to vegan and responsible travel.

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Good Morning, I am looking to travel solo as a woman in her 60s. I was on a tour group to italy for 11 days but found the fast paces 8-12 miles almost running to see all their planned sites too much; not even enough time to drink it all in. MY questions to you are thus: 1) When choosing to travel in multiple cities in Italy then taking trains and ending in Vienna how does one pack and not over pack. to travel solo I would not want to have the huge check in suitcase but wondered how one gets around city to city (I’m assuming by bus or train) without lugging around multiple carry on(s). 2) When going to Vienna doesn’t one have to have a gown for the concerts? 3) What number of shoes should one bring, or should they just be a 2 pair of sneakers. 4) Shouldering a backpack, camera cases and clothing bags really strains the neck; how to travel with camera and not be over loaded. 5) The 12 day (2days of airplane travel of course) nonstop up at 6 done at 9pm is a killer pace and required great quantities of vitamins and inhalers, I’m looking to see again Florence, Tuscany towns of Umbria, Venice, San Gimignano, Orvieto, Stresa then onto Vienna but at a slower pace, how to plan?

Hello. Vienna has one of the best and cheapest public transport systems in the word. You can get around easy. You need no special shoes. Just some your fine with walking. I personally hate stressy holiday acitions. I always relax in vienna and take myself enough time to see things.

Vienna is such an underrated city in Europe. I visited while on a tour as I was too nervous to travel solo at first. I’m looking forward to heading back soon – and solo! Can you recommend any good places to stay for about 1 month?

Visited Vienna in the summer when traveling from France-Germany-Austria-Hungary- Romania, and it was one of my favorites Cities. Really clean streets, clean air and a lot of really interesting bulidings. Had a lovely time there and want to visit again, and especially the Praeter, the fun park that it’s one of the best in Europe

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• Travel tips

Vienna Solo Travel Guide for First-Time Travellers to Vienna Austria

If you are travelling solo to Austria and wondering what to do alone in Vienna, then you have to follow my Vienna solo travel guide. I included everything you need to know before starting your solo trip to Vienna, plus all the best attractions, places to eat and so much more.

As the capital of Austria , Vienna is a world-class city with many UNESCO World Heritage Sites . The city is indeed very cultured and you can spend many days meandering through museums and palaces.

Moreover, Vienna is one of the safest cities in the world, which makes Austria one of the best solo destination for solo female travellers.

If you are planning a trip to Vienna as a first time visitor, keep reading. I’ll tell you everything you need to know so you can plan a solo trip to Vienna Austria.

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Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. If you buy something through them I will receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you for supporting this website. For more information, please read the  disclosure for more info.

What you need to know before travelling solo to Vienna Austria

Before you take your Vienna solo trip, take a look at some of these useful travel tips for travelling in the Austrian capital city:

• Euro (€)  is Austria’s official currency.
• The standard voltage is 230V .  Power sockets are of type F.  Check  here  to determine if you need to bring a travel adapter.
• Use the Google Maps app  to navigate around Vienna.
• You can get by with English in Vienna . Most Austrians speak German and a bit of English, especially around all the touristy places. You don’t need to speak German but it would be great to say danke  (thank you in German) or another phrase or two. You will be immediately welcomed with warm smiles.
• Austria is the 4th most peaceful country and Vienna is ranked 5th in the world for “personal safety” . But with visiting any big cities, please always practice your normal safety precautions. 

Austria entry requirements

Austria is  part of the European Union (EU)  and the  Schengen area . 

Non-EU travellers can only  stay in the Schengen region up to 90 days within a period of 180 days . And you will need a  valid passport for at least 3 months after the date you intend to leave the EU country  and it  must issued within the last 10 years . 

Check if you need to apply for a Schengen visa  from an Austrian consulate or embassy and apply for a visa before you leave your home country. 

How to get to Vienna Austria

Vienna International Airport  (VIE) is located 18km southeast of the city centre. 

The easiest and cheapest way to get to downtown Vienna is by taking the Railjets of Austrian Federal Railways (ÖBB) . Twice and hour, the train will take go directly from Vienna Airport to Wien Hbf (Vienna Central Station) .

The 15-minute train ride costs €4.30 . Tickets can be purchased online, via ÖBB ticket app, at the counter or at a kiosk.

These are four major rail stations in Vienna. Wien Mitte Station and Wien Nord are for commuter trains. Whereas Wien Westbahnhof and Suedbahnhof are international railway terminals.

Depending on where you are coming from, you could be arriving at either Wien Westbahnhof or Suedbahnhof .

How to get around Vienna as a solo traveller

As a solo traveller, you can easily get around the city on your own. Vienna is a very walkable city.

If you only have a few days in Vienna, get a Vienna Pass where you can experience the city most conveniently. With the pass, you get free entry to 60+ attractions and tour the city on a hop-on-hop-off bus . If you plan to visit many different sites in a short period, definitely get a pass as it will save you money.

And you could also get a bike and ride around the city . Or take the tram to save some time and energy. And for long distances, take the U-Bahn (underground) network . And Uber is an inexpensive way of getting around as well.

What to do alone in Vienna Austria

As one of the most cultured capital in Europe, there are a lot of things to do alone in Vienna. Depending on how fast you go through the museums and palaces, you may need between two or three days in Vienna . 

First, let’s orientate ourselves in Vienna.

Ringstrasse (Ring Road) , is a 5.3km road circling the old town. This beautiful boulevard is lined by Austria’s most important buildings like  Hofburg Imperial Palace ,  Kunsthistorische Museum , The Natural History Museum ,  Rathaus (City Hall) , The Austrian Parliament Building ,  The Vienna State Opera House  and is surrounded by many parks and monuments.

Visiting the attractions on the Ringstrasse should be high on your list!

I put together an interactive map and pinned all the top things to do in Vienna. You can find more information about each attraction by clicking on the individual pin. Here’s a quick legend:

• Museums (blue)
• Architecture in Vienna (purple)
• Palaces and historical sites (orange)
• Accommodation (yellow)

Museums in Vienna

Possibly the best things to do in Vienna is all within MuseumQuartier. Also known as MQ , it is one of the largest cultural sites which has over 60 cultural institutions showcasing art, architecture, music, theatre, dance, fashion and literature.

These are two of my favourite museums at MQ:

• Leopold Museum – showcases Austrian artists such as Gustav Klimt, Koloman Moser, Richard Gerstl and Oskar Kokoschka. They also have the biggest collection of Egon Schiele ‘s self-portraits and work in expressionism.
• MUMOK (Museum Moderner Kunst Stiftung Ludwig Wien) – focuses on 20th-century modern and contemporary art, pop art and Vienna Actionism.

Besides the MQ, there are other arts and cultural exhibits all around the city:

• Kunsthistorisches Museum – is worth visiting if you like Dutch and Flemish paintings. I love the works by Pieter Bruegel and one of his most famous works, “The Tower of Babel” is displayed in this grand museum. The interior is pretty amazing too!
• The Albertina Museum Wien – has over 65,000 drawings and prints as part of their permanent exhibit.
• Museum of Applied Arts – Mak Vienna – an arts and crafts museum with a focus on design, applied arts, architecture and contemporary art. 
• Secession Building – learn about the Vienna Secession and how it all began.
• Mozarthaus Vienna – for music lovers, specifically Mozart, visit this building which was Mozart’s residence from 1784 to 1787. And today, it is a museum displaying pieces from Mozart’s home and installations of his music.
• KunstHaus Wien Museum – this is the only museum where you will find Friedensreich Hundertwasser’s artwork, who also designed the famous building, Hundertwasser House.

Architecture in Vienna

If you are an architecture lover, like me, you would be amazed by all the different types of design in the city.

My favourites were the art nouveau and modernist architecture by Austrian architect,  Otto Wagner. His work can be found in various places in the city, including Österreichische Postsparkasse (Austrian Postal Savings Bank) ,  Majolikahaus (residential home on Linke Wienzeile no 40) and  Otto Wagner Pavilion Karlsplatz .

Another architectural highlight is the  Hundertwasser House . Friedensreich Hundertwasser designed this residential building, and people come here to see the colourful facade where plants grow out of windows and large trees grow inside the rooms. It is one of the most visited buildings in Vienna.

Palaces & Historical Sites

A trip to Vienna wouldn’t be the same without seeing a few important historical sites.

Spend an afternoon and tour the beautiful  Schönbrunn Palace and Gardens . It was a summer residence for Habsburg emperors back in the day. The Baroque architecture is a stunning yellow and well-maintained while the garden is beautifully manicured.

Also, visit The Belvedere Palace , which is home to Austria’s most famous painting: Gustav Klimt’s “The Kiss” and Vienna’s largest medieval art collection. While you are there, enjoy a leisurely stroll in the palace and admire the 18th-century Baroque palaces and landscape.

While you walk through  Kärntner Strasse , a pedestrian shopping street in the centre of the city, you will discover Stephansdom (St. Stephen’s Cathedral) . The Gothic cathedral stands tall in the centre of the city. You can even get a closer look at the gorgeous tiled roof and a panoramic view of the city when you climb up 340+ steps.

And if you have time, visit Karlskirche and Hofburg Palace  as they both represent Viennese historical and cultural importance.

Want to join a tour in Vienna Austria?

Related Post –    Why you must visit Vienna in Winter

Solo day trips from Vienna

Bratislava, slovakia.

A day trip to Bratislava is easy-peasy because the capital city of Slovakia is very close to Vienna. Plus, the city has many historical sites concentrated in the centre of town where you can see them all on the same day. Some highlights include Bratislava Castle, Michael’s Gate, Blue Church and Old Town Hall .

While you are in Bratislava, try some of the traditional Slovak cuisines like b ryndzové halušky (potato dumplings with sheep cheese and roasted bacon) and  bryndzové pirohy (pierogis stuffed with sheep cheese).

The journey from Vienna to Bratislava is only an hour by train. Or you can join a full-day Bratislava tour that includes a bus transfer to Bratislava, a walking tour and a boat ride on the Danube back to Vienna.

Hallstatt, Austria

Hallstatt is one of the most dreamy destinations in Austria. This alpine village in the Salzkammergut region is known for its production of salt. But most people know of Hallstatt because this town has the most picturesque views of the Austrian Alps, Hallstätter See and surrounding villages .

You can visit this UNESCO town on your own by taking the train to Hallstatt. Or you can join an organized tour to Hallstatt from Vienna and see this dreamy alpine town. The tour includes a stop at Schloss Ort, then it goes directly to Hallstatt where you can wander around the town, and walk on the Skywalk platform.

Salzburg, Austria

Visit Austria’s fourth biggest city, Salzburg , for a day of historical sites and baroque architecture. Stroll through the Old Town and visit some famous sites including  Salzburg Fortress , Domquartier Salzburg , and Salzburg Cathedral. And make sure to join a Sound of Music tour as the movie was filmed in Salzburg.

The train will take you from Vienna to Salzburg in 2 hours and 30 minutes.

Where to stay in Vienna as a solo traveller

Vienna attracts 12 million people each year, so there is no shortage of accommodations. It is just a matter of preference and cost. Here are some of my recommendations:

• Check prices & reviews: Agoda

What to eat in Vienna Austria

When you think of Austrian food , you might think of the wiener schnitzel because that is what they are famous for. And it is delicious!

But there are so many other dishes to try. Austrian food in Vienna is hearty and wholesome. Many of their culinary dishes have German origin and other neighbouring countries, especially Slavic culture.

For all the coffee lovers, you are in luck! The café culture dates back a few hundred years. It is a very social and relaxing activity for locals in which many people order typical Viennese coffee and a slice of Viennese cake as well. Because of the popularity of coffee culture, many old Viennese coffee houses are still around and even with the original and traditional decor.

You have to try some of the typical Viennese food :

• Wiener Schnitzel  and  Erdäpfelsalat  – deep-fried veal cutlet and Austrian-style potato salad
• Tafelspitz  – traditional Viennese boiled beef in broth
• Austrian Beef Goulash  and  Knödel  – Austrian beef stew with bread dumpling
• Frankfurter Würstel  – Frankfurter or Viennese sausage
• Sachertorte  – Austrian chocolate cake
• Kaiserschmarren  – shredded pancake in a pan

Where to eat in Vienna Austria

Some of the places below came highly recommended by locals. And I have to say; they were some of the best meals I’ve had. Super authentic and delicious! You don’t have to worry about eating as a solo traveller. It is very common in Vienna.

Restaurants and food market

• Lugeck  – a modern restaurant serving classic Viennese dishes.
• Kaffee Alt Wien  – classic Viennese cafe with vintage posters.
• Salm Bräu – try a flight of beers and home-style dishes at this local brewery.
• Bitzinger Würstelstand  – popular sausage stand outside of Albertina.
• Naschmarkt – Vienna’s largest food market. Restaurants and food vendors line the mile-long market. There’s even a flea market on Saturdays.

Viennese coffee houses

• Cafe Sacher  – famous for its original Sachertorte.
• Cafe Central  – opened in 1876, it might be Vienna’s most beautiful coffee house.
• Demel  – founded in 1786, this is Vienna’s first confectionery for fine pastries.
• Cafe Hawelka  – not as busy as the other popular coffee houses but the vibe is just as amazing.
• Cafe Sperl – love the traditional interior in this Viennese coffee house.

Are you ready to travel solo to Vienna Austria?

Vienna is one of the safest cities for solo female travellers. I’ve been to the beautiful city twice and didn’t feel unsafe at all. Feeling safe is a top priority and you can be at ease when you are in Vienna Austria.

I hope you like some of my travel tips before heading off to the beautiful city. If there is anything else you would like to know, leave a comment below.

Thank you for reading my Vienna solo travel post

You might also like these other posts:

Vienna travel posts:

• 23 Best Vienna food you must try
• Visit a Heuriger in Grinzing from Vienna: 1-day itinerary
• Bratislava day trip from Vienna

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queenie mak

Hi, my name is Queenie, and I've been a solo traveller for 20+ years and currently based in Hong Kong. Follow me on my adventures through Instagram and my blog!

Further Reading...

23 Best Vienna Food: Where and What to eat in Vienna Austria

Bratislava Solo Travel Guide: Vienna to Bratislava Day Trip Itinerary

Day trip to Grinzing: How to visit a traditional Heuriger in Grinzing from Vienna Austria

I totally agree with you… Another thing is, I was pleasantly surprised by how friendly and welcoming the locals were in Vienna. Everyone I met seemed happy to talk with and offer recommendations for things to do and see in the city, would highly recommend it to anyone looking for a European city break!! 🙂

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Solo Travel Story

A Complete 4 Day Vienna Itinerary For First Time Visitors

In 2018 I took the plunge and travelled solo to Vienna for the very first time. I needed a break from London and the Austrian capital seemed to be the best choice for my first solo travel adventure. The city is consistently ranked at the top for best quality of life, is known for its rich imperial past and of tremendous cultural & artistic significance. I’ve visited Vienna many times ever since and even spent three months living there last summer. Here’s my 4 Day Vienna itinerary for first time visitors and I invite you to follow along and explore this wonderful city with me.

My Vienna travel guide for first time visitors includes a detailed day to day itinerary filled with activities and local things to do alone in Vienna for solo travellers. I’ll also tell you where is the best area to stay in Vienna for your visit, which activities I feel you could skip and how to access the city from the airport.

Table of Contents

4 Day Vienna Itinerary Overview

What You Need to Know When Visiting Vienna

• Cash is preferred over card payments
• Vienna has a city tax which covers an additional 3.2% of the original accommodation fee
• Vienna Mitte (central) is not Vienna Hauptbahnhof (main station). The CAT train runs to Vienna Mitte. If you need to go to Hauptbahnhof, you have to use a regular train.
• Vienna has an odd layout and walking is sometimes faster than public transport
• Vienna is consistently voted as a top city with a high quality of life
• Vienna consists of 23 districts and they all have names, too
• Austrian’s are smart, sophisticated and laid back
• No matter what time of the day, but if you do switch the TV on you’ll notice there’s always a Sissi, Habsburger or Vienna themed documentary airing
• Aldi operates under the name “Hoffer” 
• Austria is part of the DACH countries, please do not refer to them as Germans. Their language is also not German, but Austrian 
• Be careful when taking pictures in public. The DACH countries have strict privacy laws and you need to respect others when out and about. Always ask for permission to avoid potential confrontation
• Tickets for the underground or tram can be purchased in advance. If you purchase the ticket on the train they charge 20p extra
• The city provides free drinking stations across town and has a top water quality. Cooles Wien is your go to app for the summer
• All social classes are represented & integrated throughout the city
• Word of caution though: you may get approached by seemingly normal people who will blatantly ask you for money or work. I guess every city has its weirdos
• Vienna is constantly evolving as a city. Authorities & administration are very committed and invested in maintaining the quality of life for all citizens & visitors 

4 Day Vienna Itinerary For First Time Visitors

Vienna is the city that keeps on giving, no matter how many times you come back to it. I love returning to the city and actively plan new visits, simply because I’ve never had a bad experience here. Having spent the entire summer 2022 test living in Vienna, I still feel I haven’t seen all it has to offer.

The main pull for visitors are: the glamourous imperial past, the UNESCO recognised coffee house culture, Prater and of course its prestigious status as a horse city. Mozart, Freud, Ferstel, Loos, Klimt, Hundertwasser or the Sacher family are all world renowned household names – they all made Vienna the intellectual centre and sophisticated city that it is today.

For this 4 Day Vienna Itinerary I’ve compiled a few places for each day which continue to engage me and have been a pleasure to revisit. The post includes my personal suggestions on what you could do and see during your stay in Vienna. You can take what resonates best with you and don’t have to follow my itinerary strictly. What’s interesting and engaging to me, may not work for you. I try to provide as much information for your planning as possible including alternatives, so you get the most out of your 4 Day Vienna stay.

This Vienna itinerary uses Quartier Belvedere as a base and starting point for your daily explorations. All prices and costs are correct as of January 2023.

Day 1 Vienna Itinerary

For your first day, arrive and get an overview of Vienna’s structure. Stroll casually into town and explore along the way. Whilst you explore, never take your eyes off from the buildings. Vienna is steeped in history and proud of its imperial past which the buildings reflect. 

Day 1 Vienna Itinerary Afternoon

After your arrival and luggage drop off at your hotel, freshen up, have a little rest and then let’s explore the area.

Palace Belvedere Grounds

The baroque Palace Belvedere sits within a manicured garden & park landscape. The grounds are neat with impressive white Sphinx statues, fountains and romantic setups. It’s a popular place for runners but also to stroll into the city centre. There’s an orangery at the bottom of the area, the University Botanical Gardens and an open air theatre during the summer months. 

The highlight, however, is the extensive art collection displayed in the Upper Belvedere . The unique collection includes notable works by Schiele, Van Gogh and Klimt. The latter’s most famous work “The Kiss” is a true visitor magnet.  Keep the art gallery for Day 2.

Schwarzenbergplatz

When you leave the grounds of Belvedere, you’ll be at Schwarzenbergplatz. The square has a Soviet War Memorial , an impressive fountain ( Hochstrahlbrunnen ) which entertains visitors with a lightshow after dark, and numerous interesting buildings. The French Embassy in art nouveau style is one of my favourite buildings in Vienna.

Note : the Viennese art nouveau movement is called Viennese Secession. The Karlsplatz station entrance is another example of this exquisite style.

Keep your eyes open for Vienna’s smallest vineyard , which is located between the Universal Music Booking and Casino on the right-hand side of the square. 

Vienna Central, District 1

The centre of Vienna is a joy to walk around. First time visitors will easily spend a good 3 to 4h exploring the area. It starts with the impressive opera house, to the nearby Albertina museum and iconic Hotel Sacher. There are countless traditional coffee houses alongside modern cafés, bakeries, restaurants and chains. One thing is for sure, you won’t starve in Vienna. 

Check Out : Vienna’s street food is pretty filling. Favourites of mine include a Käsekrainer Hot Dog (cheese filled sausage in a bun, 6€) which you can get from Bitzinger outside the Albertina or a Korean corn dog (deep fried sausage in a potato coating, 6.50€) from KOON .  

From the main High Street, there are several smaller, narrow alleys and side streets which will take you to quieter parts of the city. The small squares, imperial buildings and the Mozart house boast history on every corner. The cobbled streets are intertwined in a maze and invite you to get lost. Favourite parts of mine include the area around the Clock Museum , the Jewish Square and the newly designed Neuer Markt .  

Coburgbastei

If you keep exploring on the East-side, you’ll find plenty of local restaurants, galleries, churches and the Literature Museum. A personal favourite of mine is the Coburgbastei 4 – Vienna’s only surviving city fortress. The final remains of the Viennese city wall and former Brown bastion are inside a luxury hotel. How did that happen you may ask? So back in the 12th century Duke Leopold V captured Richard I during the third crusade and thus demanded a high ransom from the British for Richard’s release. From the money, the Austrian king expanded Vienna’s city structure and established a circular city wall: 5km long, with 20 towers and 10 entrance gates. This structure lasted for 300 years. 

The Brown Bastion was then built in 1545-55 as an extension on top of this city wall. It served as a protection against the Ottoman attacks and was at the time the most prestigious bastion. It had a sophisticated underground system for storing ammunition and even had canons. 

Duke Ferdinand of Saxony-Coburg & Gotha acquired the land in 1840 and built a grand city palace on top of the Brown Bastion remains. Today, the Coburgbastei is a 5 star hotel. Guided tours to the basement and state rooms are upon request through the hotel’s newsletter, but the rest of the ruins can be explored for free in the hotel lobby. Make sure you let reception know and then enjoy this unusual but highly interesting place. 

St Stephen’s Cathedral

If you prefer to stay on the High Street, you will follow the Kärntner Straße . At its end you’ll have arrived at St Stephen’s Cathedral and if you turn left you can explore The Graben, Vienna’s posh end of the High Street. 

I’ve never explored the cathedral properly. A quick glimpse inside is free and you can then decide for yourself if you want to pay and access other areas of the cathedral, such as the tower, altar or crypt. 

Note : St Stephen’s Cathedral is a catholic institution and therefore a Camino site. The Camino sign is on a lamp post outside of the watchmaker shop Bucherer (north-west side of the cathedral). On the east-side of the church is the community centre Quo Vadis (Stephansplatz 6) which provides visitors with information on the Austrian Camino. You can obtain the Credential and take part in their monthly coffee meet ups with like-minded pilgrims. 

If you follow the Camino signs, you’ll pass The Graben, the Holy Trinity column and eventually pass through the Hofburg. The Hofburg is home to the Spanish Riding School, the Sissi museum, the treasury and presidential administration of the city of Vienna. 

Have a look, just outside of the Hofburg, in Michaeler Square , are the remains of a former Roman military camp. The ruins of Vindobona are approximately 2000 years old and free to explore. This may be just a small excavation site, yet it connects Vienna to a long and rich history of its Roman origins. 

Find some time for a rest in the nearby Volksgarten . This charming park designed in 1821 is a favourite amongst locals and visitors. It provides lots of benches, shade and has a stunning rose garden display. It’s a lovely oasis to recharge, people watch and enjoy the flowers. 

Rathaus & City Information Centre

After your break, check out the Rathaus (City Hall). In the summer, the square in front of the City Hall has a free open air cinema, showing mostly classical & pop concerts, as well as ballets and theatre performances. There is more. Not only is this building exceptional with its intricate baroque features, I would advise you to pay the City Information Centre (Friedrich Schmidt Platz) on the other side of the building a visit. This tourist information is different from the ones near the Albertina, as it provides lots of information on Vienna as a city itself, rather than promoting and selling tours. 

The City Information Centre has tons of interesting material on Vienna’s city structure, its (on going) development plans, statistics and specific information on hiking trails, music performances, cultural events and living in Vienna. I needed some help with my research on the Viennese coffee houses and the staff at the City Information Centre were extremely invested and provided me with free books on Viennese coffee culture. I left with 2kg of material and it was such a great support for my article. You can also pick up your passport for the inner city hiking trails and fetch your hiking needles, once you’ve completed your hikes. 

From the Rathaus, you can either take the tram (line D) back to your hotel or walk towards the Museum Quarter . This is another newly developed area with interesting museums, art galleries and a chill out zone. It is not only exclusive for museum guests but invites everyone to relax, mingle and soak up the atmosphere. When I spent three months living in Vienna, this was my Sunday afternoon place to hang out and read. 

Day 1 Vienna Itinerary Dinner

For dinner you could consider Le Burger. I’m in love with this small Austrian burger chain and its unfuzzy and “Oh-so-instagrammable” vibes. Swings and green lush plants make the place atmospheric and very laid back. The burgers are all delicious and the menu includes a wide range of flavour combinations. They even do nachos with pulled beef and sauces. One quirky highlight of Le Burger is their sauce bar which offers unusual flavours such as blueberry ketchup, garlic mayo and BBQ dip. 

Quite a lot of impressions for your first day in Vienna, so get a good night’s sleep and let’s explore more tomorrow. 

Day 2 Vienna Itinerary

Check out some of the art galleries and museums that Vienna has to offer. Finish the day with a rollercoaster ride at the ever so fun and entertaining amusement park Prater.

Day 2 Vienna Itinerary Morning

Palace Belvedere Art Gallery (Upper Belvedere)

Start your day by visiting the exhibition and art gallery. The palace inside is architecturally stunning. The many treasures of art work have been given a space worthy of their admiration and you’ll be drawn into the worlds of Klimt, Hundertwasser and Schiele. I personally loved the gallery at Belvedere and in comparison to other museums and galleries in Vienna, it was relatively quiet. Best to make use of that. 

Time spent: approximately 90 minutes Costs: Tickets start at 16€

Day 2 Vienna Itinerary Lunch

You can’t come to Vienna without spending some time at a traditional coffee house. Recognised as a UNESCO cultural heritage, Viennese coffee culture attracts over 8 million visitors annually. 

FIND OUT MORE : How Authentic are Coffee Houses in Vienna Today?

The list of traditional coffee houses is long and they vary in style and service. I personally would choose Café Central for first time visitors to Vienna. It is touristy, yes, but it is located within the prestigious Ferstel Palais, which in itself is quite the experience.  

Heinrich von Ferstel was a Viennese VIP architect and designed the city palace between 1856-1860. It follows the venetian/Florentine art trecento style and was originally planned as a finance, exchange and bank center. Built during the Wilhelmina era, the Ferstel Palais is regarded as one of the most prestigious buildings in Vienna. Today it also hosts a grand hall for extravagant events and has an arcaded shopping area with high-end local brands. Café Central moved into the building 16 years after its completion and has been there ever since. 

If you decide for Café Central, Café Demel or Hotel Sacher, make sure to book in advance as these are the most popular cafés in town. 

Time spent: 1h Costs: apple strudel 8.50€, Sacher cake 8.90€

Day 2 Vienna Itinerary Afternoon

Albertina Gallery

Another art gallery not to be missed when in Vienna. The permanent collection hosts over 65,000 artworks by Hundertwasser, Monet and various German expressionists. It is slightly more modern orientated and always has a special exhibition running, which comes free with your admission. The Albertina also has a sub gallery, the Albertina Modern, near the Karlsplatz which focuses on modern performance artists.

Note : The Albertina is also a good address for your bathroom breaks in town, as they are well kept and free of use. Take the escalators to the entrance, then keep right. The bathrooms are one level down. 

Time spent: 2h Costs: 18.90€ adult ticket, combi ticket with Albertina Modern 24.90€

Alternative Activity in Vienna: Kunsthistorische Museum 

An alternative thing to do alone in Vienna is to visit the Kunsthistorische Museum (art history museum). It is filled from bottom to ceiling with over 2,100 objects that belonged to the Habsburg monarchy’s treasury. The Cupola Hall is an impressive marbled circular room in the heart of the museum. From here you can further explore the extensive painting collection which includes treasures from Dürer and Bruegel. 

The Tower of Babylon is one of my favourite paintings and the generous sofas laid out all around the museum, make this visit highly enjoyable to fully appreciate the paintings. There’s a lot to see so you can get fatigued easily. Therefore I would advise not to exceed a 2h stay.  

Time spent: 2h Costs: 18€ adult ticket

Day 2 Vienna Itinerary Evening

Prater Amusement Park

From the Albertina walk towards St Stephen’s Cathedral and down Rotenturm Street. At the end you’ll pass Sweden Square, cross over the river and follow along the Danube in an east-bound direction. At Franzensbrücke, walk up the stairs and walk north-bound until you’ve reached Praterstern. 

Time: approximately 40 minutes, depending how fast you walk

Prater is an inner-city nature reserve with a huge – partially kept natural- parkland and a permanent amusement park. I absolutely love this place as fairgrounds are the ultimate summer essential for me. Prater is good fun, maybe not on a late Friday evening but other than that, walking around the fairground will always engage me. Fetch a Langos, some candy floss and watch the brave take a spin on Prater Turm, the world’s largest high swing carousel at 117m. 

Other highlights of the Prater fairground include the Vienna Ferris Wheel which I rode on my first time visiting Vienna. Before you board the wooden capsule, you’ll learn more about its 100 year history in a separate exhibition. The capsules are very rocky and not stable as they are e.g. at the London Eye. The views however make up for this, so for me this is a definite thing to do in Vienna. 

Take the S1, S2 or S3 from Prater Stern in the direction of Meidling. It’ll be three stops to Quartier Belvedere. 

Time Spent: 2h or more, depending on rides Costs: entrance is free, the rides costs between 5€-10€, Ferris wheel 13.50€, candy floss 2.50€, Langos 5€

Day 3 Vienna Itinerary

Start your day by visiting the Hundertwasser House and museum. Have lunch in town and then explore the Prunksaal at The National Library. Use your afternoon for a stroll along Gumpendorfer and Mariahilfer Straße, two excellent eclectic neighbourhoods with shopping opportunities and local communities. Finish at Naschmarkt and Schleifmühlgasse, one of my favourite streets in Vienna. Alternatively, you could embark on an inner-city hiking trail and explore lesser known parts of the city. Let’s go!

Day 3 Vienna Itinerary Morning

Let’s start the morning with some more culture and art. A well-known son of Vienna is Friedensreich Hundertwasser. This visual artist and architect is legendary with his quirky and colourful designs. Have you noticed that several buildings in Vienna carry his legacy? The Spittelau Incinerator is one such remarkable building. Another, more centrally located residential building is in Kegelgasse 36-38. 

Keep in mind, whilst this is free to visit, this is only to look at from the outside. There are small shops selling Hundertwasser prints and memorabilia, but if you’re after a proper museum, walk 10 minutes north-bound. 

The Kunst Haus Wien Museum Hundertwasser is at Untere Weißgerberstraße 13. This museum features a wide collection of Hundertwasser’s paintings, architectural designs and performance art. Hundertwasser had quite the love-hate relationship with Vienna and preferred to travel the world instead. He has very close ties to Australia and New Zealand and even designed an Uluru flag for Oz. The exhibition is highly interesting and engaging, not least because design elements by Hundertwasser were integrated into the museum. I’m not giving too much away, let’s just say it is a surprising and educational museum.

Time Spent: 90 minutes Costs: 11€ adult ticket

Day 3 Vienna Itinerary Lunch

Whilst you walk back into town to fetch lunch, make sure to pass by Anker Uhr at Hoher Markt . This elaborate historic clock is often overlooked but it is such a gorgeous piece of Viennese history right in the heart of town. Similar to the Astronomical Clock in Prague and Bern, this one comes with copper accents & figures that move around on the hour.

For food, maybe now is the time to give the Austrian classic Wiener Schnitzel a try. A traditional staple of Viennese cooking, a tender piece of veal is dipped in flour and breadcrumbs and then carefully fried. The biggest Schnitzel have a diameter of 30cm and are sold at Figlmüller , where they’ve been made since 1920. 

Alternative Restaurants for Wiener Schnitzel : Little Giant or check out Roma & Russel’s guide to Wiener Schnitzel . 

Day 3 Vienna Itinerary Afternoon

After lunch, visit the grand State Hall (Prunksaal) at The National Library . This part of the former imperial library was built in the 18th century. 200,000 books pile up on 80m² in length and 20 metres in height. Four venetian globes, frescos and an elaborate ceiling make this library one of the most beautiful in the world. 

Time Spent: 30-40 minutes Costs: 10€ adult ticket, combi tickets with the globe museum, literature and papyrus museum are possible

Alternative things to do alone in Vienna : nearby is the globe museum which belongs to the same complex. Might be a bit specific and quirky, but I’ve heard many good stories about it. 

Viennese Neighbourhoods & Localities

Use the rest of your afternoon to explore Vienna’s lively neighbourhoods, in particular Mariahilfer Straße & Gumpendorfer Straße . 

Mariahilfer – a leafy pedestrian zone with lots of shopping opportunities. The vibes are friendly and the street is picturesque. It used to be the home of Vienna’s prettiest coffee house, The Café West End, but unfortunately it closed during the pandemic. At the end of the street, turn right into the Gumpendorfer and walk back up. 

Gumpendorfer – runs parallel to the Mariahilfer and is one of the most interesting streets in Vienna. Pay attention to the art nouveau Arik Brauer Haus , another impressive residential building. The building was designed by Viennese architect Arik Brauer and then executed by city designer Peter Pelikan who also collaborated with Hundertwasser. 

Follow the “Gumpi” along and indulge in some trendy cafés along the way. Brass Monkey , espresso bar Apa-To or Fain are just a few interesting addresses for you to check out. 

Have a look at the Flak Tower which hosts The House of the Ocean. This is an interesting historic building, built as a defence tower during the WW II. Today there are six remaining towers across the city, mainly because they are difficult to demolish. So instead, the city decided to maintain them as homes for new concepts. Anyway, you can fetch a drink on the rooftop terrace which has stunning 360 degree views over Vienna. There’s a separate entrance for the rooftop to the very far right of the building. 

Turn right down Köstlergasse and end up on Linke Wienzeile . This, too, is a highly interesting street with local restaurants left, right and centre front, historic buildings that’ll astonish you including the impressive Café Savoy. Sandwiched in between is the Naschmarkt (snack market), Vienna’s inner-city open planned food market. Have a look and taste around. I’ve had lunch here once at Neni’s which serves mostly Middle Eastern cuisine. 

Alternative things to do alone in Vienna : follow one of the inner-city hiking trails. You can pick up your free pass and guide at the City Information Centre on Day 1. I would personally suggest Route 9 in Prater or Route 11 through District 5 & 10. 

Day 3 Vienna Itinerary Dinner

Fetch food at Naschmarkt or close by. If you need some vegan options, I got Tolstoy and Swing Kitchen on my list. On your way back to Quartier Belvedere, walk through Schleifmühlgasse . 

“Schleifmühli” in District 4 (Wieden) is another favourite of mine. A former address for a mill grinding cutting knives and thrusting weapons, this street is a thriving community today, often nicknamed as “Vienna’s public lounge”. 

Next to local cafés such as Alt Wien coffee roastery, Lisboa Lounge, Vollpension (a quirky concept café) are numerous independent galleries, bookshops, Bobby’s England shop and various al fresco restaurants. My favourite is Pinsatore which serves traditional Italian Pinsen, a very thin and mega crispy, yet flavoursome pizza. 

Day 4 Vienna Itinerary

Step back into Vienna’s imperial past and explore Palace Schönbrunn. Not only is the palace worth a look, but the extensive grounds are home to Vienna’s zoo and other attractions.

Day 4 Vienna Itinerary Morning

Today will be spent at Schönbrunn. I have cycled to the Imperial Palace many times and love seeing Vienna from a different perspective that way. I leave this up to you. After breakfast, you could rent a bike from your hotel, e.g. Hotel Daniel or get one from “Die Radstation” at the train station. Day rates for a city bike should come at around 15-20€. Alternatively, you can take the Underground to “Schönbrunn”. Take the U1 (Leopoldau) and change at Karlsplatz into U4 (Hietzing). 

Palace Schönbrunn is on the westside of Vienna and lies outside of the city centre. It is worth the trip as there is much to do and see there and explore its extensive grounds. 

Palace Schönbrunn Tour

Come early, as the palace is Vienna’s top attraction and it will be well visited. There are a couple of different tours on offer. Some tours only cover a few rooms and then require you to “upgrade” if you’d like to continue and see more of it. 

I like that the tours offer you flexibility and you’re not coerced into a full tour. On my first visit, I opted for the Imperial Tour , a rather small tour covering 22 rooms including the state rooms and private bedrooms of the monarchs. For me, this was plenty to see and to be honest, the rooms were a bit bland and repetitive after a while. You’ll be given an audio guide too so you can guide yourself around the Palace. 

Time: 90 minutes Costs: 22€ adult ticket

Day 4 Vienna Itinerary Lunch

Schönbrunn Gardens

The Palace is always worth a visit. Last but not least, because of its spacious and impressive gardens. There are countless shaded alleyways, pavilions, fountains, rose bushes, hedges and even a labyrinth to admire. Strolling around the grounds will make you feel grand, too. It’s a very relaxing activity. When you feel ready, tackle the slopes ascending to the Gloriette. Gorgeous views over the Palace and the city, as well as a well deserved cup of coffee, await you on top. Secure a spot on one of the benches and take in the views.   

Time: easily 2h Costs: free

Day 4 Vienna Itinerary Afternoon

Alternative 1: Palm House

At the west side of the Schönbrunn grounds is a palm house. Opened in 1882 with a total space of 2,500m² it used to be the biggest greenhouse in the world. The construction consists mainly of steel and glass that needed regular restorations throughout its history. Taken under monumental protection in 2011, the palm house received its latest restoration. Today, it is very well preserved and made of three houses. Each house, or section, has a separate temperature to accommodate the exotic plants inside. The average temperature is 18°C and the lowest is 6°C.

If you’re a fan of rare plants, palms and intricate 19th century gardening architecture, this is a magical place for you. There are also benches for you to sit, admire and ponder about life. It’s a lovely atmosphere and I enjoyed this very much. 

Time: 1h Costs: 7€ adult ticket   

Alternative 2: Vienna Zoo

Opened in 1752 and now a UNESCO world heritage site, the Vienna Zoo is another option to spend your time when in Schönbrunn. The enclosures are spacious and generously laid out. See Koalas, Giant Pandas, Ice Bears and wolves whilst walking around a manicured and neat park design. I loved spending time here and there’s even a treetop walk. 

Book your tickets online to avoid the queues at the entrance. Online tickets are not dated to a specific day so you have more flexibility for your visit. Although once inside, you won’t be able to go out and come back again. 

Time: 3-4h Costs: 26€ adult ticket

Alternative 3: Strudelshow at Café Residenz

In the basement of Café Residenz is the imperial bakery and kitchen. The traditional cross rib vault kitchen is the domain of Head Confectioner Michael. He’ll run the Strudelshow a couple of times in the morning and early afternoon, which introduces you to the art of apple strudel making within 30 minutes. 

Michael makes apple strudel baking look so easy, but it’s his highly entertaining and engaging demonstrations that make the Strudelshow so enjoyable.

If you have more time in Vienna, definitely take part in the baking course. In a small group, you’ll learn the craft of apple strudel making and perfecting dough stretching skills. During the 3h course there’s not just food on end, but a casual atmosphere and lots of fun, too. Plus you’ll go home as a certified Viennese Apple Strudel Confectioner. The course runs mostly on a Friday, so do check on their website and request your space beforehand. 

Time: 30 minutes Strudelshow, 3h Baking Course Costs: 14€ including coffee and a slice of apple strudel, 75€ Baking Course

Alternative things to do alone in Vienna for Day 4 : start your day with a performance at the Spanish Riding School and view the stables afterwards. Leave Schönbrunn Palace for the afternoon, but note it might be very busy then to do a tour inside the palace. You can still stroll around its grounds, visit the zoo or the palm house.

Maybe Not: Vienna Activities to Skip

Reflecting on previous visits, some experiences stood out to me, which didn’t do it for me. This is my personal opinion and you can, of course, give them a go and decide for yourself.

Spanish Riding School & Stables

The 1h performance cost around 60€ and if you’re unlucky, you’ll be seated at the top, meaning you have to lean slightly over the balustrade to see anything. I personally didn’t get much out of this experience. I’m not into dressage and I’m open to understanding it, yet I questioned its practice and ethics many times. The following 1h guided tour around the stables was equally disappointing. The guide was disengaged and it felt like she hadn’t prepared herself well. The generic information were limited and poorly presented. I found it too basic overall and I felt I had learnt zero about the tradition, the upkeep ect. It was an experience that didn’t give me anything, so may as well invest those 2h into another Viennese activity. I have still listed the performance & stable in this 4 Day Vienna itinerary, as I’m aware that the tradition is a huge pull, especially to horse lovers.

Haus des Meeres (House of the Ocean)

This is a privatised aquarium on Gumpendorfer Straße. The concept is quirky as the aquarium is located within a historic Flak Tower, one of Vienna’s six remaining defence towers. Built for protection during the war and made from reinforced concrete, this is basically a high tier bunker facility. This in itself is impressive to pay attention to when you walk around in Vienna. Now home to a privatised aquarium, I was not a fan. The tickets were expensive, staff unfriendly, the enclosures way too small, forbidden signs left right and centre front, the aquariums very lifeless and not attractively designed. It felt like a rip off. Instead save your 20€ and visit the Zoo in Schönbrunn instead.

Some Popular Restaurants

I’ve had a few disappointing dining experiences. I was not impressed by restaurants Fratelli and Figlmüller ; especially the latter is a bit of a tourist trap. Unfriendly waiters, long waiting times, Schnitzel are massive yet they come without any side dishes and those needed to be ordered and paid extra for. No thanks! In-Dish , a supposed “upscale” Indian was far from high quality. My Chicken Tikka Masala was extremely dry and full of onions. NEXT!

Vienna Airport to City Centre Transfer

Getting into town from the airport via public transport is swift, easy and straightforward. Here are your options:

By Bus : the bus terminal is very well signposted. The signs will automatically lead you out of the terminal. Bus stop 7 will take you directly to Vienna main station (Hauptbahnhof) or to Vienna West Station. A return within a month costs 13€. Alternatively you could use a SlovakLine or Regiojet service coming from Bratislava as it’ll cost you 2€ but will need to be booked in advance and the service is not running frequently. 

By Train : Vienna main station (Hauptbahnhof) is not Vienna Central (Mitte). There is confusion and the direct airport train CAT at 16€ goes to Vienna Mitte (Central). If you need to catch a train to travel further to Prague, Bratislava or Budapest, you most likely have to go to Hauptbahnhof (main station). The direct train to Hauptbahnhof runs every 30 minutes and the ticket should cost 4.60€

If you stay in the Quartier Belvedere area, drop off your luggage and start exploring. A walk into central Vienna via the grounds of Palace Belvedere will take approximately 20-30 minutes. 

The Best Area To Stay In Vienna

Ever since my first visit to Vienna in 2018, I have been staying and returning to Quartier Belvedere , the best area to stay in Vienna. This area is located in walkable distance south of the city centre and offers many accommodation choices. 

Quartier Belvedere sits on the border to Vienna’s lively District 4 (Wieden) and District 10 (Favoriten). The area is a newly developed square with cafés, restaurants, hotels and parks. Next door is the main station (Hauptbahnhof) for easy access to the airport and organising day trips. Tramline D goes straight to the city centre and you can also use U1 from Hauptbahnhof and Tram 18 goes to Westbahnhof. From Quartier Belvedere there’s also the S1- S4 which take you to Prater in just three stops and Vienna Mitte (central) in two. 

Hotels in Vienna near Quartier Belvedere :

Budget: Prizotel, Ibis, Novotel

Mid-tier: Hotel Daniel , Hotel Shani

Luxury: Moons

Apartment Hotels: Adina (5 Star), JOYN (4 Star), Smartments (3 Star) 

FAQs about the 4 Day Vienna Itinerary for First Time Visitors

I understand this is quite a lengthy post and you may have some quick questions about the 4 Day Vienna itinerary for first time visitors. You can, of course, always come back to any section of my post and read in more detail what you’d need for your trip. If you have questions or need help, please get in touch and I’m happy to assist.

How many days do you need in Vienna?

If you’re visiting Vienna for the first time, I would suggest staying for 4 days. This will give you enough opportunity to try out a variety of activities and see if its vibe is compatible with you. Vienna has a very high standard of living and I would describe its character as sophisticated & intellectual without coming across as pretentious.

Are there many things to do alone in Vienna and is the city solo travel friendly?

A clear yes. Vienna is friendly to solo travellers and there are many things to do alone, such as hiking, exploring the historic Inner City or hopping around the many coffee houses. Culturally you have tons of museums, the Mozart concerts or the Imperial Palaces such as Hofburg & Schönbrunn. In the summer, you can also do a wine tour around its many vineyards, take a spin on the Prater or do a day trip to nearby Bratislava. Each of the 23 districts have their own character and are also worth exploring, my favourites are Wieden (District 4), Ottakring (District 8) and Favoriten (District 10).

When’s a good time to visit Vienna for the first time?

I’ve only ever been to Vienna during the summer & autumn so I can only comment on this time of the year. I hear the Viennese Christmas Markets and celebrating New Year’s in Vienna are magical but I prefer the warmer temps. Plus there’s more time to explore due to the extended daylight hours. Prater amusement park is way more fun when the weather is warm and you can enjoy being outside.

Thanks so much for reading. If you’ve enjoyed my 4 Day Vienna Itinerary for First Time Visitors and would like to support my blog & research, you can do so via Buy Me a Coffee .

Till next time,

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• Local, Unusual, Underrated: The City Hiking Trails Vienna  
• Tales from My Epic Summer Baltics Tour & Finland Trip
• Coming soon: Test living in Quartier Belvedere
• Big Travel Guide to Brunch & Modern Cafes in Vienna
• A Complete Brussels 3 Day Itinerary For First Time Visitors

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Blogs about her travel adventures in the world from her London home.

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21 comments.

This makes me so excited for our trip in October. Great, great itinerary- I love that you include things not to do – sometimes that’s equally as helpful as thing to do. Beautiful neighborhoods, coffee houses, and sights, and the food sounds amazing.

I’ve just re-read this for a second time as we are starting to get into the details of our Vienna trip. I’ve picked up even more! You we able to do so many things in 4 days and I hope we can do it justice in only 2 or 3 days!

Such an interesting article and full of facts and info that I did not know about. I’m an Aldi shopper in the UK and never realised Hoffer was the Austrian version. I visited Vienna many years ago , but only for a weekend and you saw so much more in your 4 days that I wish I had spent longer there. I had no idea the world’s smallest vineyard was here – and I had walked straight past it on my way without knowing – damn! Also that part of the old city wall is located inside Coburgbastei, something else I would have loved to see but didn’t know about. Clearly I should have done more homework before visiting this city. Loved the tips about where to eat and where to get the best specialised foods – and I appreciate your honesty about which of those eateries to avoid.

I really need to start planning for Vienna. I’ve always postponed it because I have the idea of being a extremely expensive destination. Anyways, your guide it’s detailed enough to make me want to go for it and stay like you suggest, for 4 days. You managed once again to dive into the food in an exquisite way (strudel it’s my guilty pleasure)!

You’re totally right in describing the State Hall (Prunksaal) at The National Library breathtaking, wow! As a geographer, I would also love to visit the nearby Globe Museum. A huge draw for me is the opportunity to become a certified Viennese Apple Strudel Confectioner haha! Sounds like a lot of fun 🙂

I found Vienna a great city to explore, especially as a solo traveler. I definitely took your recommendation of Neni’s and was not disappointed, so thank you for that. Which means next time I’m in Vienna I’ll have to try Le Burger and your cafe recommendations. I was definitely overwhelmed with what to see here, and next time I would visit in summer. I loved the Christmas markets but like you say, the longer days and warmer temperatures are probably a bit nicer

Carina | bucketlist2life

What an amazing Vienna itinerary. I guess, I have to go back and do and see the things I have missed the first time around. Especially all the amazing food options. There are still so many Kaffeehäuser I have not visited. And the rooftop terrace. And I can always come back for a giant Figlmüller Schnitzel and more Käsekrainer!

This is such a detailed post. I am considering visiting Vienna in October and this gave me so much insight. I prefer to be outdoors and I love the fact that there are inner city hiking trails. I’m also a coffee love and was surprised to learn that the coffee shops are a UNESCO site. I’d spend the entire 4 days checking out the coffee shops. The strudelshow would be fun to see and I’d be signing up for the strudel making class for sure.

I love that you have the important tips for visiting right at the beginning – as someone who doesn’t carry cash that’s important for me to know! Also really good to know about pictures in public! I like that more places are adopting those practices. The coburgbastei has a fascinating history! I learned a lot about visiting Vienna from your post – thank you!

This great – such a cultured and varied itinerary! My eyes lit up when you mentioned Klimt because the Secession was a highlight in Vienna when I went. But that was a long time ago when I was only 18… I’ve long thought I should go back again., so I’ll check your recommendations when that day comes…

Henry at fotoeins

Carolin, thanks for this post; I learned some new things and picked up some reminders along the way. I’ll send an e-mail with comparisons and comments, because they’re too long to put here; heh 😅

Lyn (aka Jazz)

What a wonderful trip down memory lane for me! I studied music in Vienna many years ago and absolutely loved the city and all the wonderful concerts. You reminded me of the many afternoons I enjoyed in Schönbrunn Gardens, coffee houses and simply walking around the city, soaking in the atmosphere.

You’ve inspired me to revisit. I must take a strudel course!

This is such a detailed and informative piece on Vienna. We love to visit places which are rich in culture and art. Some of these places look really beautiful, especially Prunskaal at the National Library.. this is such a handy resource for anybody who’s planning to travel to Vienna

Vienna is always a good choice whether for a weekend trip or for a week. It’s one of my favorite cities and it’s great Carolin that you’ve mananged to highlight both city’s regular sights as well as the one’s less traveled. Vienna is a city for all seasons and one can’t help but keep coming back – time and again 😉 #flyingbaguette

That’s a pretty detailed itinerary and I wish I had read it before visiting Vienna in 2016. Sadly the city didn’t impress me but that’s probably because I expected too much (something I no longer do when I travel). Also I had no recommendations on places to eat and really didn’t enjoy the food. It was the end of Spring however and we did make the most of the gorgeous gardens and huge parks. If I ever go back I will use your guide and try and get a room at Moons Hote just for that view!

Paul (Paul Passing Through)

Great guide and I agree with almost everything (the things I don’t agree with are because I didn’t do them so can’t have an opinion lol). I loved the Upper Belvedere art gallery. It had one of my favorite paintings from the many galleries we saw during our trip to the region (one of Monet’s). I also really enjoyed the Kunsthistoriches but defintiely agree that it can be overwhelming if not right. Seeing all the Bruegel paintins was so exciting for me! We didn’t do Schonbrunn because I read that it wasn’t as worthwhile in winter when the garden isn’t in full bloom, so we did the Hoburg instead. It’s a shame we missed so much of the smaller roads and less touristed spots. It was so busy for New Year’s that it was a bit overwhelming. The day after everyone left, it was like a whole different city.

I don’t know why the first time I visited Vienna I felt like it didn’t live up to the expectations I had of it. Maybe because too many people said it was super royal and gives luxury, but when I went it was cold, rainy, and windy. Reading your post really makes me feel like I need to give it another try, but when the weather is nicer at least. I have a lot more things to add to my list for my second visit thanks to your guide!

Well you’ve officially put Vienna on my list! The city looks quite beautiful without being overwhelming. I would love to visit Coburgbastei and walk around the fortress. We had Koon in Japan and it was delicious! But I’d have to say that the Strudelshow sounds right up my alley. I love making strudel so learning how to make it the traditional way would be awesome.

Wow – so many wonderful things to see and do in Vienna. We have never visited this city but very much want to. Love how the old and new architecture have integrated so well at Coburgbastei 4. The Palace Belvedere Art Gallery and the Albertina Gallery would be essential places to visit as we love art. Prunksaal at the National Library looks amazing and the Globe museum appeals. And we would particularly enjoy experiencing the food and drink. The coffee houses, with torte, the Wiener Schnitzel (could we manage a 30cm diameter one each – maybe one to share?) and we would absolutely love to learn to bake apple strudel – complete with confectioner qualification! Great itinerary, with really useful recommendations, which we will bookmark for a future trip.

Great itinerary with some new suggestions. We are possibly popping to Vienna as my wife fancies a return to pratter and i fancy the 2 palaces ive not visited yet.

Wow, this is a great itinerary. I LOVE that you have not only described some of the places to see but you also added where to eat along the way. Not too many posts include this detail. I will have to bookmark this one for sure!!

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LIFESTYLE & TRAVEL BLOG IN VIENNA

Vienna solo traveler tips – solo travel guide vienna, austria.

Last Updated on January 24, 2024 by gregor

If you are a solo traveler and wish to visit Vienna, the capital of Austria, you should definitely give it a go. For your convenience, keep reading these solo travel tips when you plan to travel solo to Vienna. This Vienna Solo Travel Guide will help you to explore Vienna the ultimate way as Vienna is undoubtedly an ideal destination for solo female Travellers, as Vienna is one of the safest cities in Europe to travel to. 

Essential Information to Know Before Travel Alone to Vienna

Before any Solo trip, it is always good to have some essential information. Check out this list to be prepared for your trip to Vienna:

• Austria Currency: Euro(€)
• Lan guage Spoken: German
• Voltage: 230V
• Power sockets: Type F

As seen above, Austria uses the Euro therefore, if you need to change currency, be aware of the exchange rates. 

The official language in Austria is German , and even though most people can communicate in English, it is always useful to learn a few words or phrases. Some of them are “Danke”, meaning “thank you”, and “Bitte”, meaning you’re welcome or please. 

Another useful tip is that in Austria, the standard voltage is 230V while the power sockets are Type F, so be sure to have the right travel adaptor. 

Plan your Trip to Vienna?

• 🏨 Find the perfect accommodation on  Booking.com
• 🎡 Book the Best Guided Tour on  GetYourGuide
• 😍 Get more emotions from your trip with  Tripadvisor
• 🚘 Rent a car on  Rentalcars
• ✈️ Buy the cheapest flight tickets with  WayAway
• 🚂 🚌 ✈️ Best prices for Train, Buses, Cars, Ferries, and flights Omio

Solo Travel Tips for Vienna, Austria

When to visit vienna.

Vienna is a stunning city at any time of the year. Vienna will give you an excellent experience, whether you prefer winter or summer ambiance. It is a city boasting several events and gorgeous scenery throughout all four seasons. 

Vienna in Wintertime

However, it is undeniable that Vienna is gorgeous during winter. Also, if you are traveling alone, you might find it easier to visit Vienna during the months of winter. It is less crowded, and also you might get cheaper tickets.

Furthermore, Vienna in winter is truly magical. The snowy atmosphere and the wintery decorations make the city even more special. Also, during Christmas time, the city is filled with Christmas Markets selling hot chocolate, traditional Viennese food, and Christmassy souvenirs. 

Vienna in Summertime

Still, if you are looking for a summer holiday, the best time to visit Vienna is in early June. The weather is warm yet cool enough to walk easily around the city. Furthermore, there are many activities you can experience outdoors you wouldn’t have the chance to try in winter. However, be aware that during summer the city is always crowded with tourists.

Read more on this Blogpost: WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT VIENNA

Where to stay in Vienna as a Solo Traveler

A major concern for many solo travelers when on the road is where to stay. Luckily, Vienna has many great accommodations for every taste and preference. Naturally, the Old Town City Center is a lovely area to stay while traveling since it is also close to every tourist attraction. However, it is also quite expensive, meaning you will need a higher budget. 

Nevertheless, Vienna has an excellent transportation network, such as the underground, so even if you stay further from the city center, you can still go around easily. Some of the best areas to stay for reasonably priced accommodation are Districts 2 and 9.

Still undoubtedly, the best accommodation when traveling alone is hostels. Not only are they cheap, but they are also a fantastic way to meet other travelers and even locals. Also, sometimes, hostels can introduce you to budget-friendly activities and tours such as walking tours or pub crawls. 

How many days do you need to visit Vienna?

If you are wondering how many days in Vienna you need,  three days is adequate to see the whole city.   Three days in Vienna will allow you to get to the top attractions at a reasonable pace and maybe give you a chance to soak in some of the many cultural activities

To really make the most of your time on your solo trip to Vienna, it’s best to follow detailed  Vienna itineraries , like the ones mentioned in this Blog. 

HOW MANY DAYS DO YOU NEED TO VISIT VIENNA?

You’ll learn about all the  best places to visit in Vienna , ensuring you don’t feel like you’ve missed anything and by the end of this guide, you’ll know what to do in Vienna in 1 – 2 or 3 days to be fully prepared for what is sure to be a great trip.

Going around Travel Solo in Vienna

Walking city tours.

Like many cities in Europe, Vienna is a very walkable city. And frankly, that is the best way to go around as a solo traveler. Most attractions in the city center are within walking distance of each other. So you can easily enjoy walking alone on the beautiful streets of Vienna and admiring stunning historical landmarks and museums. 

VIENNA CITY WALKS – 11 SIGHTSEEING ROUTES (FREE VIDEO TOUR GUIDES)

Public Transport – Vienna City Card

Taking public transportation is the most convenient method to get around Vienna (Euro 8.- for a 24-hour ticket).

A Vienna City Card , which permits unlimited use of the city’s metro, tram, and bus lines, can be purchased in advance.

Vienna City Cards are available for 1, 2, or 3 consecutive days, and prices range from 24 hours for Euro 17, to 3 days of use + airport transfer for Euro 46.-.

The  Vienna City Card  also offers discounts at over 210 major attractions, making it an excellent value.

Bicycle – Rent a Bike in Vienna

The city center of Vienna, and the majority of tourist attractions, are reachable by bicycle.

WienMobil Rad is the most popular bike-sharing service in Vienna.

Simply register online, find a terminal and scan the QRCode to unlock a bike. 

Detailed Information on How to Rent a bike in Vienna on my Blog:

BIKE RENTAL IN VIENNA – EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW – WIENMOBIL RAD (VIDEO TOUR)

There is also the very popular Classic Vienna:  3-Hour Guided Bike Tour  available to book in advance.

Hop On Hop Off Bus in Vienna

The City Card provides access to standard buses throughout Vienna. There is, of course, the well-known Vienna  Hop-on Hop-off Sightseeing Bus .

This  Hop On Hop Off bus  allows you to hop on and off at many locations throughout the city, including the Museums of the Hofburg, the House of Music, and the Schönbrunn Palace.

This choice is always popular amongst travelers, and it is a great way to see many of Vienna’s famous attractions.

Vienna Guided Tours

There are some amazing tours available to book in advance on  Get Your Guide for people who are short on time or prefer everything to be organized for them. There’s much to do in the Austrian capital, from food tours to river cruises and bar crawls!

What to do in Vienna as a Solo Traveler

Before going on a solo trip, it is natural to wonder whether you might feel bored or if you end up sticking out like a sore thumb. Thankfully, Vienna has many great things to do alone that you will never get bored with. From museums to cafes to operas and amusement parks. Also, it is a city where people commonly travel alone. So, it is easy to blend in with the crowd.

As already mentioned, there are many things to do. However, there are just some things that you shouldn’t miss. Let’s see them all by dividing them into three categories, museums, and cultural and historical sites. 

Vienna Museums

With more than a hundred museums, you could say Vienna is the city of museums. Of course, it is impossible to visit all of them, so here are the top three you should visit while solo traveling around the city. 

• Leopold Museum: showcases art by several Austrian artists, including Gustav Klimt, Koloman Moser, Richard Gerstl, and Oskar Kokoschka. They also have the biggest collection of Egon Schiele’ s self-portraits and work in expressionism. Skip-the-Line Tickets to Leopold Museum
• MUMOK: focuses on 20th-century modern and contemporary art, pop art, and Vienna Actionism
• The Albertina Museum Wien: has over 65,000 drawings and prints as part of its permanent exhibit.

Read more about the Best Museums in Vienna

THE BEST 12 MUSEUMS YOU NEED TO VISIT IN VIENNA, AUSTRIA TRAVEL GUIDE (UPDATE 2022)

Cultural and Historical Sites in Vienna

Vienna is undoubtedly one of the most important cities in Europe regarding history, culture, and art. After all, it was home to one of the biggest empires in Europe. Therefore, a trip to Vienna wouldn’t be the same without seeing a few important historical sites. Here are some of the best places to visit as a solo traveler.

• Schönbrunn Palace and Gardens: the summer residence of Habsburg emperors featuring Baroque architecture and beautifully manicured gardens. A QUICK TRAVEL GUIDE TO VIENNA’S SCHÖNBRUNN PALACE, VIENNA AUSTRIA
• Belvedere Palace: home to Austria’s most famous painting, Gustav Klimt’s “The Kiss,” and Vienna’s largest medieval art collection. Book your Belvedere Tour:  Belvedere Tour Vienna
• Stephansdom : the most famous cathedral in all of Vienna. It is gothic-style and in the heart of the city.
• Hundertwasser House : Friedensreich Hundertwassers’ most famous designs. Marvel at the colorful facade with plants growing out of windows and large trees inside the rooms. The  KunstHausWien , a museum designed by Friedensreich Hundertwasser, is also worth a visit. The museum is home to the only permanent exhibition of Hundertwasser’s work in the world.

Vienna State Opera: The state opera is a wonder that only a few get to experience. This is why we suggest you plan your trip in a way that allows you to enjoy a concert. When planning a stop you can check with the local opera house and make sure you can enjoy some of the greatest Operas.  Vienna State Opera Skip The Line Tour Ticket

Top Tip: One way to familiarize yourself with Vienna’s buildings and learn a bit of history is to take a walking tour. They are the perfect way to learn about a new city as well as bond with other travelers. 

What to eat in Vienna – Viennese Food Guide

Wiener schnitzel (vienneses schnitzel).

Most people, when thinking about Austrian food, think of the Viennese Schnitzel. And indeed, it is the most famous traditional Austrian dish. However, there are many others you should try. Generally, Austrian cuisine is a fusion of German and Slavic cuisines. It is hearty, wholesome, and filling. 

However, today Vienna is a multicultural city, so even locals don’t usually stick to eating only Viennese food. Around the city, you will find various international restaurants. Thus, whether you’re craving Italian, Chinese, or Japanese cuisine, you will surely find it.

WHERE TO EAT THE BEST WIENER SCHNITZEL IN VIENNA (RESTAURANT TIPS + PRICES!)

Vienna Coffee Houses

An interesting point in Austria’s culinary scene is the longevity of the cafe culture. It dates back a few hundred years and is part of UNESCO as an intangible cultural heritage.

Today, in Vienna’s cafes, you can also order typical Viennese coffee and a slice of Viennese cake. Furthermore, in some old Viennese coffee houses, you can still see the original and traditional decor.

For more information about the Viennese Coffee Houses please read this blog post:

BEST COFFEEHOUSES IN THE CITY CENTER OF VIENNA, AUSTRIA

Understandably, sometimes eating alone is often awkward. The first time you go on solo travel, it will feel weird to eat alone. But it is only a misconception. In many cases, people have their lunch or dinner alone.

Still, if you find it difficult, there are many ways to ease any awkwardness. For instance, bring a book, a journal, or another quiet activity to enjoy while having lunch, dinner, or coffee. Otherwise, go for a quick meal from a food stall at the many markets around Vienna. 

Vienna Heuriger (Wine Taverns)

BEST HEURIGER IN VIENNA – COMPLETE GUIDE TO THE WINE TAVERNS IN VIENNA

Best 15 Food Tours in Vienna

15 BEST FOOD TOURS IN VIENNA, AUSTRIA – UPDATED 2022/23

What to pack for your solo travel to Vienna

Vienna has four seasons, so in winter you will definitely get cold, and in summer you will feel warm. However, it is always good to be prepared for harsh weather. For instance, no matter what season you decide to visit Vienna, choose to bring a raincoat and a warm jacket or jumper in case of rain or wind. After all, even in summer, some nights are quite chilly. 

Casual Clothes

When traveling alone, you won’t need too many fancy clothes. In fact, if you are staying at a hostel, it is better to have casual clothes that are comfortable to hang out at the hostel with other travelers. Also, if you are planning to tour Vienna by walking, make sure to bring comfy shoes for strolling around the city for hours. 

Essential Things to pack

Other essential things you should pack are gadgets that will make your trip easier and more fun. For instance, it is always good to have a universal adaptor, especially if you are from countries with 3-ended plugs. Also, bring with you a power bank , so your phone never gives up on you while outdoors. Furthermore, when in a new place, we all love capturing our best moments, so make sure to bring your camera or a tripod in case you want to create some vlogs.

Lastly, don’t forget to print out any tickets you have booked. Of course, you can still have them on your phone, but sometimes it is handier to have them on paper. 

Vienna Safety Tips for Solo Travelers

Generally, Vienna is a very good destination for all solo travelers. It is considered one of the safest cities in Europe to visit. In fact, according to statistics, Vienna has very low criminality, and even if the city is overcrowded, you can feel relaxed. It is that kind of city where you don’t need to keep looking behind your shoulder, thinking someone will rob you.

Still, it is always good to be cautious, especially in a foreign country. Watch your pockets and always keep your bag with you. If you are on public transport, have your bag on your front and be cautious of your surroundings. If you need to take a long-distance train, try to not fall asleep and at night time, avoid empty streets.

Last but not least, the best way to avoid any issues is to not dress too fancy and try to blend with the crowd. It’s the best way to avoid pocket pickers.

Practical Tips for visiting Vienna

The overwhelming amount of things on offer can be a real challenge for Solo Travelers. That’s why everyone needs some  practical tips for visiting Vienna  and how to avoid mistakes in Vienna.

Read more on the Blog Post: PRACTICAL TIPS FOR VISITING VIENNA

Vienna is undoubtedly a fantastic solo travel destination.

First of all, Vienna is one of the safest cities for solo traveling , even for female travelers. Thus, you won’t have to constantly worry over your safety and belongings.

Additionally, Vienna has a great public transport network meaning you can explore every part of the city without any worries. 

If anyone worries about language barriers, almost everyone in Vienna speaks English and even other languages since it is a multicultural city.

Furthermore, thanks to that in Vienna you will be pleased to see the various cultures mingling together to create beautiful art and food! And speaking of art, Vienna is the city of museums and palaces. So, as a solo traveler, there are many things to see and do. There is no way you will ever get bored. Because Vienna IS undoubtedly one of the best cities for solo traveling.

Frequently Asked Questions for Solo Travelers

Is vienna safe at night for solo travelers.

Vienna is definitely one of the safest cities in the world. The subway is “full” at night on weekends. If I don’t like the atmosphere in one carriage, I just get off and get into the next one. According to statistics, there were 203,000 reported cases in 2021 (Hamburg 228,000). Nothing has ever happened to me over the years. 

Where is it dangerous in Vienna for Solo Travelers?

Around 18,000 criminal offenses were reported in the district of Favoriten in Vienna in 2020. This made Favoriten the district with the most crimes (10th district); On the other hand, there were the fewest in Josefstadt  (8th district) with around 2,400.

Is it safe to walk at night in Vienna for Solo Travelers?

Yes, it’s  safe  to  walk  around after dark. While most shops are closed you will find plenty of cafes and bars open. It’s a lovely area to see at night. 

Why You Should Listen to Me?

I was born and live in Vienna my whole life. (Not like other “Travel Bloggers & Travel Websites” who pretend to know Vienna just for visiting 1 or 2 times). I live and work in the City Center of Vienna and have seen and tried most of the things I recommend,  but I have also seen several things you should definitely avoid (making a few mistakes on my way too).

I am very confident to give you the best  Vienna travel tips that will help you have a fantastic holiday in Vienna

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• Travel Destinations

Solo Travel In Vienna: How To Have An Amazing Trip Traveling Alone

Published: September 11, 2023

Modified: December 27, 2023

by Torey Mckenna

• Arts & Culture
• Plan Your Trip
• Travel Tips
• Solo Adventure
• Solo Travel Tips

Introduction

Vienna, the enchanting capital of Austria, is a vibrant city filled with rich history, captivating architecture, and a lively arts scene. It has also become a popular destination for solo travelers looking to explore its grandeur and charm on their own terms. With its efficient public transportation system, safe streets, and friendly locals, Vienna offers an ideal environment for those seeking a solo adventure.

In this article, we will delve into the reasons why Vienna is a perfect destination for solo travel, the best time to visit, essential tips for solo travelers, must-visit attractions, culinary delights to savor alone, safety concerns to be aware of, and how to meet other solo travelers along the way. So, whether you are an experienced solo traveler or embarking on your first solo journey, get ready to discover the delights of Vienna and create unforgettable memories.

Vienna exudes a sense of elegance and grace that makes it a joy to explore. Its architecture showcases a blend of styles, from Gothic cathedrals to Baroque palaces, imperial residences, and modernist buildings. A walk through the city center is like stepping back in time, as you discover architectural wonders like St. Stephen’s Cathedral, Hofburg Palace, and Schönbrunn Palace.

Vienna is also renowned for its thriving arts and culture scene. Numerous museums and galleries, such as the Belvedere Palace, Museum of Fine Arts, and Albertina, house impressive collections that attract art enthusiasts from around the world. The city is also home to the Vienna State Opera, where you can indulge in a mesmerizing performance, and the Musikverein, famous for its incredible acoustics.

The cafe culture in Vienna is legendary, with traditional coffeehouses serving up delicious Viennese pastries, aromatic coffee, and an inviting atmosphere. Grab a seat in one of these iconic establishments and soak up the ambiance as you people-watch or dive into a good book.

So, fellow solo travelers, prepare to embark on an incredible journey through Vienna. Get ready to immerse yourself in history, art, and culture, indulge in delectable treats, and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace. Vienna awaits you with open arms, promising an unforgettable solo travel experience.

Why Choose Solo Travel in Vienna

There are countless reasons why Vienna is an excellent choice for solo travel. Firstly, the city is known for its warm and welcoming atmosphere. The locals are friendly, helpful, and often speak English, making it easy to navigate and connect with people. Whether you’re strolling through a park or dining at a local cafe, you’ll find that Viennese hospitality is second to none.

Another compelling reason to choose solo travel in Vienna is the city’s safety. Vienna consistently ranks among the safest cities in the world, with low crime rates and well-maintained public spaces. You can feel comfortable and secure exploring the city on your own, both during the day and at night.

Vienna also offers a diverse range of activities and attractions that are perfectly suited for solo travelers. The city’s cultural scene is unparalleled, with numerous museums, art galleries, and music venues to explore. Whether you’re a history buff, an art lover, or a music enthusiast, Vienna has something to captivate your interests.

Moreover, Vienna’s compact size and efficient public transportation system make it a breeze to navigate. The city is well-connected by a network of trams, buses, and trains, which allows you to easily reach all major attractions and explore different neighborhoods. With a detailed map in hand and a sense of adventure, you can embark on a solo exploration of Vienna’s hidden gems.

One of the greatest joys of solo travel in Vienna is the freedom it brings. You have complete control over your itinerary, allowing you to spend as much time as you like at the attractions that interest you most. Whether you want to spend hours exploring a museum, take a leisurely walk through the city’s parks, or simply sit back and enjoy a coffee at a bustling cafe, you can tailor your experience to your own preferences.

Lastly, solo travel in Vienna provides an opportunity for self-discovery and personal growth. It allows you to step out of your comfort zone, gain independence, and build confidence in navigating a foreign city on your own. You’ll have the freedom to embrace new experiences, meet new people, and create lasting memories that are uniquely your own.

In summary, choosing solo travel in Vienna offers a combination of safety, welcoming locals, a vibrant cultural scene, convenient transportation, and the freedom to create a personalized adventure. Whether you’re seeking art, music, history, or simply the joy of exploration, Vienna is the perfect destination for your solo travel escapade.

Best Time to Visit Vienna Alone

Deciding when to visit Vienna as a solo traveler depends on your personal preferences and what you hope to experience during your trip. The city offers something unique and captivating in every season, so it’s worth considering the advantages of each time of year.

One of the most popular times to visit Vienna is during the spring months of April and May. The weather is mild, and the city is in full bloom with colorful flowers and blossoming trees. It’s a delightful time to explore the city’s parks and gardens, such as the famous Stadtpark or the stunning Schönbrunn Palace Gardens. Additionally, spring brings with it a vibrant events calendar, with music festivals, art exhibitions, and outdoor concerts taking place throughout the city.

If you’re a fan of warmer temperatures and longer days, summer is an excellent time to visit Vienna. June, July, and August offer sunny weather, allowing you to enjoy alfresco dining at the city’s outdoor cafes and experience the lively atmosphere of Viennese life. During this time, you can also take advantage of the many open-air markets, such as the Naschmarkt, where you can sample delicious local produce and browse unique crafts.

For those who enjoy the magical ambiance of the holiday season, Vienna truly comes to life during Christmas time. From late November through December, the city transforms into a winter wonderland with its renowned Christmas markets. The aroma of roasted chestnuts, the twinkling lights, and the festive atmosphere make it an enchanting time to explore Vienna’s markets, sip on hot mulled wine, and indulge in sweet treats like cinnamon-sugar coated pastries known as “Weihnachtskekse”.

If you prefer fewer crowds and lower hotel rates, consider visiting Vienna during the shoulder seasons of fall and winter. September and October showcase the beautiful autumn foliage across the city, providing picturesque backdrops for your solo adventures. Winter, particularly January and February, offers a quieter and more serene atmosphere, allowing you to explore Vienna’s museums and landmarks without the usual tourist crowds.

Ultimately, the best time to visit Vienna as a solo traveler depends on your interests and preferences. Consider the activities and experiences you want to enjoy, as well as the weather conditions that appeal to you the most. No matter the time of year, Vienna will welcome you with its charm and provide a memorable experience for solo travelers.

Essential Tips for Solo Travelers in Vienna

Traveling alone in Vienna can be an incredibly rewarding experience, allowing you to immerse yourself in the city’s rich history, culture, and culinary delights. To make the most of your solo adventure, here are some essential tips to keep in mind:

1. Plan Ahead: Before you embark on your solo trip to Vienna, do some research and create a rough itinerary of the attractions you want to visit. While spontaneity is great, having a general plan will help you make the most of your time and ensure that you don’t miss out on any must-see sights.

2. Stay Connected: It’s important to have reliable communication while solo traveling in Vienna. Make sure to have a working phone with a local SIM card or an international data plan. This will allow you to stay connected, use navigation apps, and reach out for assistance if needed.

3. Learn Basic Phrases: Although many Viennese locals speak English, it’s always beneficial to learn a few basic German phrases. Simple greetings like “hello” (Guten Tag) and “thank you” (Danke) can go a long way in establishing friendly connections with locals and showing your appreciation.

4. Use Public Transportation: Vienna’s public transportation system is efficient and well-connected. Invest in a travel pass or purchase single tickets to explore the city effortlessly. Utilize trams, buses, and trains to move around, as they provide a convenient and cost-effective way to reach different attractions.

5. Embrace the Coffeehouse Culture: Vienna is famous for its coffeehouse culture, where you can relax, savor delicious pastries, and soak up the atmosphere. Don’t hesitate to visit traditional coffeehouses like Café Central or Café Sperl, where you can enjoy a cup of Viennese coffee and indulge in a slice of Sachertorte.

6. Stay Safe: Vienna is generally a safe city, but it’s always essential to take precautions while traveling alone. Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas, and keep your belongings secure. Avoid walking alone late at night in unfamiliar areas and trust your instincts if something feels off.

7. Join Guided Tours: If you want to learn more about Vienna’s history and culture, consider joining guided tours. It’s an excellent way to gain deeper insights into the city’s attractions and meet other like-minded travelers. There are numerous walking, biking, and food tours available that cater to various interests.

8. Explore Beyond the Inner City: While Vienna’s Inner City is a treasure trove of landmarks and attractions, don’t be afraid to venture beyond. Explore neighborhoods like Neubau, known for its trendy boutiques and art galleries, or visit the iconic Prater amusement park for a fun-filled day.

9. Enjoy Vienna’s Music Scene: Vienna is renowned for its classical music heritage. Take advantage of the city’s rich music scene by attending a concert or an opera performance. The Musikverein and Vienna State Opera offer world-class shows that will leave you mesmerized.

10. Connect with Other Solo Travelers: If you’re looking to meet other solo travelers during your time in Vienna, consider staying at hostels or joining social events and meetups. Platforms like Meetup and Couchsurfing often organize gatherings for travelers, providing opportunities to connect and share experiences.

With these essential tips in mind, you’ll be well-prepared to embark on an amazing solo adventure in Vienna. Embrace the freedom, immerse yourself in the city’s beauty, and create unforgettable memories as you explore all that Vienna has to offer.

Must-Visit Attractions for Solo Travelers in Vienna

Vienna is a city brimming with iconic landmarks and cultural treasures that are perfect for solo travelers to explore. Here are some must-visit attractions that should be at the top of your list:

1. St. Stephen’s Cathedral: This magnificent Gothic masterpiece is an architectural marvel and the symbol of Vienna. Climb the 343 steps to the top for panoramic views of the city’s skyline.

2. Hofburg Palace: Explore the opulent former imperial palace, home to the Habsburg dynasty for centuries. Visit the Imperial Apartments, the Sisi Museum, and the Spanish Riding School to get a glimpse into Vienna’s imperial past.

3. Schönbrunn Palace: Marvel at the grandeur of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, which was the summer residence of the Habsburgs. Take a stroll through the stunning gardens, explore the lavish rooms, and don’t miss the mesmerizing views from the Gloriette.

4. Belvedere Palace: Immerse yourself in art and history at this magnificent Baroque palace. The Belvedere houses an impressive collection of Austrian art, including Gustav Klimt’s masterpiece, “The Kiss.”

5. The Ringstrasse: Walk or cycle along Vienna’s famous Ringstrasse, a grand boulevard encircling the city center. Admire the stunning architecture of the State Opera House, the Parliament, and City Hall as you soak in the city’s charm.

6. Museum Quarter: Dive into Vienna’s vibrant art scene at the Museum Quarter, one of the world’s largest cultural complexes. Explore museums such as the Leopold Museum, Museum of Modern Art, and the Kunsthistorisches Museum, which houses an extensive collection of art and historical artifacts.

7. Vienna State Opera: Indulge in a world-class performance at the Vienna State Opera. From opera to ballet, this iconic venue showcases some of the finest artistic talent in the world. Even if you’re not attending a show, its grand architecture is worth admiring.

8. Prater Park: Experience a mix of nostalgia and fun at Vienna’s iconic amusement park, Prater. Take a ride on the famous Ferris wheel, known as the Riesenrad, and enjoy the lively atmosphere, attractions, and delicious street food.

9. Naschmarkt: Explore Vienna’s vibrant culinary scene at the Naschmarkt, a popular food market offering a wide variety of international and local cuisines. Sample fresh produce, enjoy exotic flavors, and soak in the lively atmosphere of this bustling market.

10. Danube Canal: Take a leisurely stroll along the Danube Canal and experience a different side of Vienna. Discover vibrant street art, trendy bars, and cozy cafes along the waterfront. Enjoy a drink or picnic while admiring the scenic views.

These are just a few of the many incredible attractions that Vienna has to offer. As a solo traveler, you can explore at your own pace and immerse yourself in the history, culture, and beauty of this magnificent city.

Exploring Vienna’s Culinary Scene Alone

Vienna is a paradise for food lovers, with a culinary scene that offers a perfect blend of traditional Viennese cuisine and international flavors. Exploring the city’s culinary delights as a solo traveler is an exciting and delicious adventure. Here are some tips for indulging in Vienna’s food culture:

1. Try Traditional Viennese Dishes: Start your culinary exploration by trying the iconic dishes of Vienna. Don’t miss out on Wiener Schnitzel, a breaded and fried veal or pork cutlet, accompanied by crispy potato salad. Tafelspitz, boiled beef served with flavorful broth and horseradish, is another traditional delicacy to savor.

2. Visit Traditional Viennese Coffeehouses: Vienna is renowned for its coffeehouse culture. Take the time to visit traditional coffeehouses like Café Central or Café Demel, where you can enjoy a cup of Viennese coffee and indulge in delectable pastries such as Apfelstrudel or Sachertorte. Sit back, relax, and soak up the historic ambiance of these venerable establishments.

3. Explore Local Markets: Vienna’s markets are a treasure trove of culinary delights. Visit the Naschmarkt, the city’s most famous food market, to browse through an array of fresh produce, spices, cheeses, and more. Take the opportunity to sample international cuisines and discover unique flavors from all over the world.

4. Venture to Heurigen: Experience the unique charm of the Heurigen, traditional Viennese wine taverns. These taverns, usually situated on the outskirts of the city, offer a chance to taste locally produced wines and enjoy hearty Austrian cuisine. Be sure to try the delicious Brettljause, a platter of cured meats, cheeses, and pickles.

5. Food Tours and Cooking Classes: Joining a food tour or taking a cooking class can be a fantastic way to deepen your knowledge of Viennese cuisine. These experiences allow you to sample a variety of dishes, learn about the history and preparation techniques, and perhaps even try your hand at cooking traditional dishes.

6. Don’t Forget the Street Food: Vienna has a vibrant street food culture that offers a quick and tasty bite on the go. Grab a Käsekrainer, a cheese-stuffed sausage, or try a Leberkäsesemmel, a savory meatloaf sandwich. Street food stands can be found throughout the city, particularly in popular areas like Graben or Karlsplatz.

7. Explore Different Neighborhoods: Vienna’s culinary scene is not limited to the city center. Venture into different neighborhoods like Neubau or Naschmarkt area, where you’ll find trendy cafes, fusion restaurants, and unique culinary experiences. Embrace the opportunity to try new flavors and discover hidden culinary gems.

Vienna’s culinary scene is a true delight, offering a range of flavors and experiences for solo travelers. So, whether you’re savoring a traditional dish in a cozy coffeehouse or indulging in street food while exploring the city, be sure to immerse yourself in Vienna’s gastronomic culture and enjoy every bite.

Safety Concerns for Solo Travelers in Vienna

Viena is generally a safe city for solo travelers, but it’s always important to keep a few safety concerns in mind to ensure a smooth and worry-free trip:

1. Be Alert and Aware: As with any travel destination, it’s important to be alert and aware of your surroundings in Vienna. Keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas and public transportation. Stay cautious and trust your instincts if something feels off.

2. Use Reliable Transportation: Vienna’s public transportation system is reliable and safe. Opt for public transportation, like trams and buses, when getting around the city, especially at night. Use well-lit and busy stops, and avoid any suspicious-looking situations.

3. Secure Your Belongings: Keep your personal belongings secure at all times, especially your passport, wallet, and electronics. Consider using a money belt or a secure bag to store your valuables. Avoid carrying excessive amounts of cash and keep copies of important travel documents in a separate location.

4. Stay in Well-Lit and Busy Areas: When exploring Vienna at night, stick to well-lit and busy areas. Avoid secluded or poorly lit streets, parks, or alleyways. It’s always a good idea to plan your route in advance, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the area.

5. Be Aware of Scams: While Vienna is relatively safe from scams, it’s still important to be cautious. Be wary of individuals pretending to need help or offering unsolicited services. Avoid giving money to strangers and be cautious when accepting drinks from people you don’t know.

6. Stay Informed: Keep yourself informed about the local customs, laws, and emergency numbers in Vienna. Stay updated on any travel advisories or warnings from your embassy or consulate. Register with your embassy so they can assist you if needed.

7. Maintain Open Communication: Stay connected with friends, family, or trusted individuals back home during your solo trip. Share your itinerary with them and check-in regularly. It’s always reassuring to have someone aware of your whereabouts.

8. Travel Insurance: Consider purchasing travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost belongings. This will provide you with peace of mind knowing that you are financially protected in case of unforeseen circumstances.

While it’s important to be mindful of safety concerns, it’s worth mentioning that Vienna is generally a safe city with a low crime rate. Taking reasonable precautions and using common sense will ensure that you can fully enjoy your solo adventure in Vienna with confidence and peace of mind.

Meeting Other Solo Travelers in Vienna

Traveling solo doesn’t mean you have to be alone throughout your trip. Vienna offers plenty of opportunities to meet and connect with fellow solo travelers. Here are some tips to help you socialize and make new friends along your journey:

1. Stay in Social Accommodations: Choose accommodations, such as hostels or budget hotels, that have communal spaces like lounges or shared kitchens. These places often organize social events and provide a chance to meet other travelers from around the world.

2. Join Walking or Food Tours: Participating in walking or food tours is not only a great way to explore Vienna’s attractions but also an opportunity to meet other solo travelers. Strike up conversations with fellow tour participants, share travel stories, and perhaps even plan future outings together.

3. Utilize Social Media and Travel Apps: Take advantage of social media platforms and travel apps like Meetup, Couchsurfing, or Travello to connect with other solo travelers in Vienna. Attend local events or join group meetups to meet like-minded individuals who share your passion for travel.

4. Attend Social Events: Keep an eye out for social events happening in Vienna during your stay. Check local event listings, visit cultural hubs, or join language exchange gatherings. These events provide an opportunity to interact with locals and fellow travelers in a friendly and relaxed setting.

5. Join Pub Crawls or Bar Hopping Tours: Vienna has a vibrant nightlife scene, and joining pub crawls or bar-hopping tours is a fantastic way to meet other travelers and have a fun night out. Connect with fellow pub crawl participants, bond over drinks, and explore the city’s nightlife together.

6. Visit Co-working Spaces and Cafes: If you’re a digital nomad or simply enjoy working while traveling, visit co-working spaces or cafes with work-friendly environments in Vienna. Strike up conversations with others working remotely and potentially form new connections with fellow travelers or expats.

7. Take part in Classes or Workshops: Consider joining a class or workshop that aligns with your interests, such as cooking, art, or dance. Not only will you learn something new, but it also provides an opportunity to meet people who share similar passions.

8. Be Open and Approachable: One of the most important tips for meeting other solo travelers is to be open, approachable, and friendly. Smile, start conversations, and show genuine interest in getting to know your fellow travelers. Remember, everyone is on their own adventure and open to making new connections.

By following these tips and being open to new experiences, you’re likely to meet other solo travelers and form friendships along the way. Embrace the opportunity to interact with people from different backgrounds, share stories and travel tips, and make your solo adventure in Vienna even more memorable.

Congratulations! You’re now well-equipped to embark on an amazing solo adventure in Vienna. With its rich history, charming architecture, vibrant arts scene, and delectable cuisine, Vienna offers a plethora of experiences for solo travelers to enjoy.

From exploring iconic attractions like St. Stephen’s Cathedral and Hofburg Palace to immersing yourself in Vienna’s coffeehouse culture and indulging in traditional Viennese delicacies, the city has something to captivate every solo traveler’s interests and taste buds.

While you’re wandering the streets of Vienna, remember to stay aware of your surroundings and take necessary precautions to ensure your safety. Be open to meeting other solo travelers, whether through social events, tours, or online platforms, to enhance your journey and make new connections.

Whether you choose to visit during the spring bloom, the lively summer months, or the magical holiday season, Vienna will enchant you with its elegance, history, and warm hospitality. Embrace the freedom of solo travel, indulge in the city’s cultural offerings, and immerse yourself in the vibrant energy that Vienna exudes.

So grab your map, put on your walking shoes, and get ready to create unforgettable memories in Vienna. As you explore its cobblestone streets, revel in its stunning architecture, and savor its delectable cuisine, you’ll come to understand why this city has charmed so many solo travelers before you.

Remember, Vienna is waiting to be discovered, and the magic is amplified when you venture on your own. Embrace the opportunity to explore at your own pace, meet new people, and experience the freedom and joy that solo travel brings.

So go ahead – book your ticket, pack your bags, and embark on an incredible solo journey to Vienna. Uncover its treasures, immerse yourself in its rich culture, and make memories that will last a lifetime. Vienna is calling, solo traveler, and it’s ready to show you a truly amazing time.

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Solo Travel in Vienna: Embracing the Cultural and Historical Charm of the Austrian Capital

Vienna, the capital of Austria, is a city renowned for its rich history, magnificent architecture, and vibrant cultural scene. As a solo traveler, Vienna offers countless opportunities for exploration, learning, and enjoyment. In this article, we’ll delve into the must-visit attractions, hidden gems, and insider tips for making the most of your solo travel in Vienna.

Explore the Historic Center

Vienna’s historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a treasure trove of architectural wonders and cultural landmarks. As a solo traveler, take your time to wander through the narrow cobblestone streets, marvel at the ornate Baroque buildings, and soak in the city’s unique atmosphere. Don’t miss iconic sights like St. Stephen’s Cathedral, the Hofburg Palace, and the Spanish Riding School.

Discover Schönbrunn Palace and Gardens

Schönbrunn Palace, the former summer residence of the Habsburgs, is a must-visit destination for solo travelers in Vienna. Wander through the palace’s opulent rooms, learning about the fascinating history of the Habsburg dynasty. Afterward, step outside and explore the palace’s expansive gardens, which include the Gloriette, the Neptune Fountain, and the Palm House. Related: Gardens and Parks in Vienna: Exploring the City’s Green Havens

Visit the Belvedere Palace Complex

The Belvedere Palace Complex, a stunning example of Baroque architecture, consists of two magnificent palaces: the Upper and Lower Belvedere. As a solo traveler, take your time to admire the palaces’ beautiful facades, manicured gardens, and ornate interiors. The Belvedere is also home to an impressive art collection, including the world’s largest collection of Gustav Klimt paintings, such as the iconic “ The Kiss “.

Immerse yourself in Vienna’s café culture

One of Vienna’s most charming aspects is its thriving café culture, which is perfect for solo travelers seeking a cozy spot to relax, read, or people-watch. Enjoy a traditional Viennese coffee and a delicious slice of Sachertorte or Apfelstrudel in iconic cafes like Café Central, Café Sacher, or Café Demel . These historic cafes provide a welcoming atmosphere for leisurely conversations or simply soaking up the ambiance. Related: Rich Food Culture and Cuisine of Vienna

Stroll along the Ringstrasse

The Ringstrasse, a grand boulevard that encircles Vienna’s historic center, is an architectural marvel lined with stunning buildings, parks, and monuments. Solo travelers can walk leisurely along the boulevard, admiring sights such as the Vienna State Opera, the Parliament Building, and the City Hall . Alternatively, hop on a tram for a scenic ride around the Ring .

Delve into the city’s vibrant museum scene

Vienna boasts an impressive array of museums, catering to a wide range of interests. As a solo traveler, you can explore the city’s rich art collections at the Museum of Fine Arts (Kunsthistorisches Museum) or the Albertina , delve into Vienna’s history at the Wien Museum , or marvel at the contemporary exhibits at the Museum of Modern Art (MUMOK) or the Leopold Museum.

Attend a classical music concert or opera performance

As the City of Music, Vienna is synonymous with classical music, and no solo trip to the Austrian capital would be complete without attending a concert or opera performance. Catch a show at the world-renowned Vienna State Opera , enjoy a classical concert at the Wiener Musikverein or the Wiener Konzerthau s, or visit the Haus der Musik , an interactive museum dedicated to music and sound. Related: Best Time to Visit Vienna: Unraveling the City of Music and Dreams

Unwind in Vienna’s parks and gardens

Vienna offers an abundance of beautiful parks and gardens, providing a peaceful respite from the city’s bustling streets. As a solo traveler, you can relax in the verdant Stadtpark , admire the beautiful flowers at the Volksgarten , or enjoy a picnic in the expansive Prater Park , which is also home to the iconic Wiener Riesenrad Ferris wheel.

Join a guided tour or meet fellow travelers

Solo travel in Vienna provides ample opportunities to connect with other travelers or join guided tours. Participate in a free walking tour to learn about the city’s history and architecture, or opt for a themed tour, such as a culinary or bike tour. You can also meet fellow travelers at famous hostels like Wombats City Hostel or MEININGER Hotel , where you can join organized events or strike up conversations in the communal areas.

Venture beyond the city center

While there is plenty to see and do in Vienna’s city center, solo travelers can also take advantage of the city’s excellent public transport to explore its outskirts. Visit the picturesque town of Grinzing , known for its charming wine taverns (Heurige), or take a stroll along the Danube River and enjoy the views from Kahlenberg Hill .

Solo travel in Vienna offers a unique and enriching experience for adventurers seeking to explore the city’s rich history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking architecture. With its wide range of attractions, world-class museums, and lively music scene, Vienna provides the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable solo adventure. So, embrace the freedom and inspiration of solo travel as you uncover the many wonders and hidden gems that await you in the enchanting Austrian capital.

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Vienna Solo Traveler Tips – Solo Travel Guide To Vienna, Austria

Introduction.

Welcome to Vienna, the stunning capital city of Austria! If you’re a solo traveler looking for a destination that offers a perfect blend of culture, history, and vibrant city life, Vienna ticks all the boxes. With its charming architecture, opulent palaces, world-class museums, and delightful cuisine, Vienna is a captivating city that caters to all types of travelers.

As a solo traveler, Vienna offers an array of experiences that will leave you spellbound. Whether you’re interested in exploring Vienna’s rich history, immersing yourself in its music and art scene, or simply enjoying a leisurely stroll through its picturesque streets, you’ll find countless opportunities to make lasting memories.

Getting to Vienna is relatively easy, with its well-connected international airport and efficient public transportation system. Once you arrive, you’ll find a range of accommodation options to suit your preferences and budget, from luxury hotels to cozy guesthouses and budget-friendly hostels.

Vienna is a safe city for solo travelers, with a low crime rate and a well-organized infrastructure. However, it’s always essential to take basic precautions, such as keeping an eye on your belongings and being aware of your surroundings.

Now, let’s dive into this solo traveler’s guide to Vienna and discover the must-see attractions, delicious cuisine, vibrant nightlife, and exciting day trips that await you in this enchanting city.

Getting to Vienna

Getting to Vienna is convenient, thanks to its well-connected transportation system. The city is served by Vienna International Airport (VIE), which is located approximately 16 kilometers southeast of the city center. The airport is a major hub, with flights from various international destinations. Once you arrive, you can easily reach the city center by taking a taxi, an airport shuttle bus, or using the efficient train service.

If you prefer traveling by train, Vienna has excellent rail connections to several European cities. The Hauptbahnhof, Vienna’s main train station, is a major transportation hub and offers frequent connections to destinations within Austria and neighboring countries.

The city also has a well-developed bus network, with both regional and international bus services. Several bus companies operate routes to and from Vienna, making it a convenient and affordable option for travelers.

Once you’re in Vienna, the public transportation system will make it easy to navigate through the city. The Vienna U-Bahn (subway), tram, and bus network cover all major areas of the city, and tickets can be purchased at stations or using a mobile app. If you plan on using public transportation frequently, consider getting a Vienna City Card, which offers unlimited travel on public transport and discounts on various attractions.

If you prefer exploring the city on foot, Vienna is a pedestrian-friendly city with many attractions within walking distance of each other. The city center is compact and easy to navigate, allowing you to discover hidden gems and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere.

Whether you arrive by plane, train, or bus, getting to Vienna is a seamless experience, enabling you to begin your solo adventure in this magnificent city with ease.

Accommodation options

When it comes to accommodation in Vienna, solo travelers have a wide range of options to choose from. Whether you’re looking for luxury, budget-friendly, or something in between, Vienna has something to suit every preference and budget.

Vienna boasts a plethora of luxury hotels, offering exquisite amenities, elegant decor, and impeccable service. These hotels are often located in prime areas, such as the Innere Stadt (Inner City), where you’ll be in close proximity to major attractions and cultural sites. Staying at a luxury hotel in Vienna guarantees a comfortable and indulgent experience, with amenities like spas, gourmet restaurants, and breathtaking views on offer.

For solo travelers on a budget, hostels and guesthouses are a fantastic choice. Vienna is home to many well-kept and affordable hostels, providing a social atmosphere and a chance to meet fellow travelers from around the world. Some hostels even offer private rooms if you prefer a bit more privacy. Guesthouses, on the other hand, offer a cozy and homey environment, often run by friendly and welcoming hosts.

If you prefer a more independent experience, renting an apartment or staying in a bed and breakfast can offer a unique and personalized stay. The advantage of renting an apartment is the freedom to have your own space, cook your meals, and live like a local. Many apartments in Vienna are located in charming neighborhoods, allowing you to immerse yourself in the city’s culture and everyday life.

Another option for accommodation in Vienna is staying in a pension, a traditional Austrian guesthouse. Pensions are usually family-run and provide a comfortable and homely atmosphere. They are often located in quieter residential areas, away from the hustle and bustle of the city center.

When choosing your accommodation in Vienna, consider factors such as location, amenities, and budget. It’s also recommended to book in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to secure the best deals and availability.

Overall, Vienna offers a diverse range of accommodation options, ensuring that solo travelers can find the perfect place to relax and recharge after a day of exploring the city’s incredible attractions.

Best time to visit Vienna

Vienna is a year-round destination, with each season offering its own unique charm. The best time to visit Vienna depends on your personal preferences and the experiences you wish to have during your solo trip.

Spring (April to June) is an excellent time to visit Vienna, as the weather starts to warm up, and the city comes alive with vibrant colors. The parks and gardens are in full bloom, creating picturesque scenery for leisurely walks and picnics. Spring also brings various cultural events and festivals, such as the Vienna Festival, where you can enjoy concerts, theater performances, and art exhibitions.

Summer (July to August) is a popular time to visit Vienna, especially for those who enjoy warm weather and outdoor activities. The city hosts numerous open-air concerts and festivals, including the famous Vienna Jazz Festival and the Film Festival at Rathausplatz. You can also take advantage of the long summer days to explore the city’s magnificent palaces, visit the Prater amusement park, or relax at one of the many outdoor cafes.

Autumn (September to October) is a beautiful time to visit Vienna, as the city is bathed in golden hues. The weather remains mild, allowing you to enjoy outdoor activities without the summer crowds. Autumn is also the time when Vienna celebrates its wine culture with the Heurigen season, where you can sample local wines and indulge in traditional Austrian cuisine.

Winter (November to February) brings a magical atmosphere to Vienna with its festive decorations and Christmas markets. The city transforms into a winter wonderland, offering ice skating rinks, cozy Christmas markets, and enchanting concerts in historic venues. Winter is also an excellent time to visit Vienna’s world-renowned museums and galleries, as they are less crowded.

It’s worth noting that Vienna can experience cold winters, so be sure to pack warm clothing if you plan to visit during this time. Additionally, it’s advisable to check the specific dates of major events and festivals you wish to attend, as they may vary from year to year.

Ultimately, the best time to visit Vienna depends on your interests and preferences. Whether you prefer mild weather, cultural events, or the festive spirit of the holiday season, Vienna has something to offer throughout the year.

Safety tips for solo travelers

Venice is generally a safe city for solo travelers, but it’s always important to prioritize your safety and take necessary precautions. Here are some tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip to Vienna:

• Stay vigilant: Like in any other city, it’s important to stay aware of your surroundings. Keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas or public transportation. Be cautious of your surroundings when using ATMs and avoid displaying valuable items.
• Research the neighborhoods: While Vienna is known for its overall safety, it’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with the different neighborhoods. Some areas may have higher instances of petty crime, so it’s best to exercise caution in these areas, especially at night.
• Use common sense: Trust your instincts and use your common sense. If a situation or place doesn’t feel right, it’s better to err on the side of caution and remove yourself from the situation.
• Stay connected: Inform a trusted friend or family member of your travel itinerary and keep them updated on your whereabouts. Consider carrying a fully charged mobile phone with emergency contacts pre-programmed.
• Blend in with the locals: One way to avoid drawing unnecessary attention is to dress and act like the locals. Avoid flashy clothing and accessories that may identify you as a tourist and make you a target for pickpockets.
• Use reliable transportation: When using public transportation, opt for official taxis or reputable rideshare services. Avoid getting into unmarked or unofficial vehicles. If you’re walking alone at night, stick to well-lit and populated areas.
• Secure your accommodation: Choose accommodation in safe and well-reviewed neighborhoods. Ensure that the entrance and common areas of your accommodation are secure and well-maintained.
• Travel insurance: Consider purchasing travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost or stolen belongings. It’s always better to be prepared for the unexpected.
• Learn basic local phrases: Learning a few basic local phrases can help you navigate the city more smoothly and communicate confidently. It also shows respect for the local culture and can help you connect with locals.
• Connect with other travelers: Consider joining online travel communities or forums where you can connect with fellow solo travelers or locals who can provide insights and advice for a safe and memorable trip.

By following these safety tips and using your common sense, your solo trip to Vienna can be a wonderful experience filled with exploration, culture, and peace of mind.

Must-see attractions in Vienna

Vienna is a city that boasts a rich history, breathtaking architecture, and a vibrant cultural scene. As a solo traveler, there are several must-see attractions that should be on your Vienna itinerary:

• Schönbrunn Palace: A visit to Vienna is incomplete without exploring the magnificent Schönbrunn Palace. This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers stunning gardens, opulent interiors, and a glimpse into the life of the Habsburg dynasty.
• St. Stephen’s Cathedral: In the heart of Vienna’s city center stands the iconic St. Stephen’s Cathedral. Climb the 343 steps to the top for panoramic views of the city, or marvel at the intricate details of the cathedral’s Gothic architecture.
• The Hofburg: This imperial palace complex is a testament to Vienna’s history and grandeur. Explore the Imperial Apartments, visit the Sisi Museum, and walk through the beautiful gardens of the Hofburg complex.
• The Belvedere Palace: The Belvedere Palace is known for its stunning Baroque architecture and houses an impressive collection of art. Admire famous works such as “The Kiss” by Gustav Klimt and explore the beautifully landscaped gardens.
• Vienna State Opera: As a hub of classical music and opera, Vienna’s State Opera is a must-visit for music lovers. Catch a performance, or simply admire the stunning architecture of this world-renowned opera house.
• Museums Quartier: This vibrant cultural complex is home to a range of museums, art galleries, cafes, and shops. Explore the impressive collections at the Leopold Museum, the Museum of Modern Art, and the Kunsthalle Wien.
• Prater Park and Riesenrad Ferris Wheel: Take a nostalgic ride on the Riesenrad Ferris Wheel in Prater Park, a symbol of Vienna. Enjoy panoramic views of the city and explore the amusement park with its fun rides and attractions.
• Naschmarkt: Indulge in Viennese flavors at the bustling Naschmarkt, Vienna’s most popular open-air market. Sample local specialties, browse through the stalls selling fresh produce, and soak in the lively atmosphere of this culinary haven.
• Kunsthistorisches Museum: Immerse yourself in the world of art at the Kunsthistorisches Museum. Marvel at masterpieces by renowned artists such as Vermeer, Caravaggio, and Rembrandt in this impressive museum.
• Vienna’s Ringstrasse: Take a leisurely stroll or a bike ride along Vienna’s Ringstrasse, a grand boulevard encircling the city center. Admire the stunning architecture of the buildings, including the Vienna State Opera, Parliament, and City Hall.

These are just a few of the many incredible attractions that Vienna has to offer. Each one provides a unique glimpse into the city’s history, art, and culture, making your solo adventure in Vienna truly unforgettable.

Exploring Vienna’s cuisine

Vienna is a haven for food enthusiasts, offering a delightful blend of traditional Austrian cuisine and international flavors. As a solo traveler, exploring Vienna’s culinary scene is a must-do experience. Here are some culinary highlights to indulge in:

Schnitzel: When in Vienna, trying the famous Wiener Schnitzel is a must. This breaded and fried veal or pork cutlet is an Austrian classic. Pair it with a side of potato salad or parsley potatoes for a truly satisfying meal.

Apfelstrudel: Another iconic Austrian dessert, Apfelstrudel, is a must-try. This warm, flaky pastry filled with sweet apples, raisins, and cinnamon is often served with a dollop of vanilla sauce or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Sachertorte: Vienna is the birthplace of the famous Sachertorte, a rich chocolate cake layered with apricot jam and covered in dark chocolate. Treat yourself to a slice of this decadent dessert at one of Vienna’s traditional coffeehouses.

Tafelspitz: Tafelspitz is a traditional Viennese dish consisting of boiled beef served with root vegetables, horseradish, and apple-horseradish sauce. It’s a comforting and flavorful dish that is sure to satisfy your taste buds.

Viennese Coffee Culture: Vienna is famous for its coffee culture, with numerous historic coffeehouses dotting the city. Sit back, relax, and savor a cup of coffee while immersing yourself in the unique atmosphere of these historic establishments.

Brettljause: For a casual and delicious meal, try the traditional Austrian platter known as Brettljause. It typically includes a selection of cured meats, cheeses, pickles, and bread, giving you a taste of the country’s flavorful delicacies.

Würstelstand: Vienna’s street food scene is incomplete without visiting a Würstelstand, a traditional sausage stand. Choose from an array of sausages, including the popular Käsekrainer filled with cheese, and top it off with tangy mustard and sauerkraut.

Heuriger: Experience the charming tradition of the Heuriger, a tavern-style wine bar located in the outskirts of Vienna. Enjoy locally produced wines, paired with hearty Austrian dishes, while soaking in the countryside ambiance.

Don’t forget to explore Vienna’s vibrant food markets, such as the Naschmarkt or Brunnenmarkt, where you can find fresh produce, regional specialties, and international flavors. These markets are perfect for sampling a variety of foods and experiencing the bustling atmosphere.

As a solo traveler, venturing into Vienna’s culinary delights is not only a chance to indulge in delicious food but also an opportunity to connect with locals and immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant food culture.

Shopping in Vienna

Vienna is a shopping paradise for both fashion lovers and those seeking unique souvenirs. As a solo traveler, exploring the city’s diverse shopping scene can be an exciting experience. Here are some shopping destinations to check out in Vienna:

Kärntner Strasse: Located in the heart of Vienna’s city center, Kärntner Strasse is a bustling shopping street lined with international fashion brands, luxury boutiques, and traditional Austrian shops. Browse through the latest fashion trends or pick up some stylish accessories.

Mariahilfer Strasse: This vibrant and pedestrian-friendly shopping street is the longest and most famous in Vienna. It offers a wide range of shops, from major retail chains to local boutiques, making it the perfect place for solo travelers to explore and find unique items.

Graben: Known for its elegant architecture, Graben is a picturesque shopping street, home to high-end fashion houses, luxury jewelry stores, and stylish boutiques. Take a leisurely stroll, window-shop, and immerse yourself in the sophisticated atmosphere of this historic area.

Naschmarkt: While primarily a food market, Naschmarkt also offers a wide variety of shops and stalls selling vintage clothing, antiques, spices, and unique household items. It’s a great place to find one-of-a-kind souvenirs or browse through eclectic goods.

Vienna’s Gold Quarter: For those looking to splurge on luxury jewelry and watches, Vienna’s Gold Quarter in the city center is the place to go. Here, you’ll find renowned jewelry boutiques and prestigious watchmakers, offering exquisite pieces and exceptional craftsmanship.

Vienna’s Flea Markets: If you enjoy hunting for vintage treasures, Vienna’s flea markets are worth exploring. The Flohmarkt am Naschmarkt and the Flohmarkt am Dorotheergasse offer a wide array of antiques, second-hand clothes, vinyl records, and unique collectibles.

Vienna’s Christmas Markets: If you visit during the holiday season, don’t miss the enchanting Christmas markets that spring up throughout the city. These markets offer a magical atmosphere, with stalls selling handicrafts, ornaments, and delicious treats.

Remember to check the opening hours of the shops, as they may vary, especially on Sundays and public holidays. Additionally, don’t forget to claim your tax-free shopping benefits if you meet the criteria as a non-European Union resident.

Whether you’re in search of high-end fashion, unique souvenirs, or vintage treasures, Vienna’s diverse shopping scene has something for everyone. So, venture out on your solo shopping expedition and discover the hidden gems that await you in this vibrant city.

Nightlife and entertainment options

Vienna comes alive after dark with its vibrant nightlife and entertainment scene. As a solo traveler, there are plenty of options to enjoy an exciting evening in the city. Here are some popular nightlife and entertainment options in Vienna:

Pubs and Bars: Vienna boasts a wide range of pubs and bars, offering everything from trendy cocktail bars to traditional Austrian taverns. Whether you’re looking for a quiet place to enjoy a craft beer or a lively pub to socialize with locals and fellow travelers, Vienna has it all.

Music and Concerts: Vienna is renowned for its music heritage, and attending a classical music concert or opera performance is a must. The Vienna State Opera, Musikverein, and the Konzerthaus are among the city’s prestigious venues where you can enjoy world-class performances.

Jazz Clubs: For jazz enthusiasts, Vienna has a thriving jazz scene. Visit renowned clubs like Porgy & Bess, Jazzland, or Tunnel to experience live jazz performances by local and international artists in intimate settings.

Nightclubs: If you’re looking to dance the night away, Vienna has plenty of nightclubs catering to different music genres and styles. Clubs like Flex and Pratersauna are popular choices, offering a mix of electronic music, live DJs, and energetic vibes.

Viennese Balls: Experience an enchanting Viennese tradition by attending a ball. During the ball season (January to February), you can join in the grand festivities, featuring elegant dresses, waltzes, and exquisite ballroom settings.

Casinos: Test your luck at one of Vienna’s glamorous casinos. Gamble, enjoy live entertainment, or simply soak up the atmosphere of these elegant venues. Remember to dress appropriately, as some casinos have dress codes.

Open-air Film Screenings: During the summer months, Vienna hosts various open-air film screenings in parks and public spaces. Grab a blanket, some snacks, and enjoy a movie under the starry skies.

Art and Theater: The city is home to numerous theaters and art galleries, offering a range of performances and exhibitions. Check out the schedules at the Burgtheater, the Volkstheater, and the Leopold Museum for an evening of cultural enrichment.

It’s important to note that some venues may have age restrictions or admission fees, so it’s advisable to check in advance. Additionally, remember to take necessary precautions when exploring the nightlife scene, such as keeping an eye on your belongings and being mindful of your alcohol consumption.

From music and dancing to theater and jazz, Vienna’s nightlife and entertainment options provide ample opportunities for solo travelers to enjoy a memorable evening out in the city.

Public transportation in Vienna

Vienna boasts an efficient and well-connected public transportation system, making it easy for solo travelers to navigate the city. Here’s a breakdown of the different modes of public transportation in Vienna:

Vienna U-Bahn (Subway): The Vienna U-Bahn is a reliable and convenient mode of transportation, with five subway lines that cover the city and its outskirts. The U-Bahn operates from approximately 5:00 am to midnight, with extended operating hours on weekends and public holidays.

Trams: Vienna’s iconic yellow trams are a popular way to travel around the city. The extensive tram network covers various neighborhoods and major attractions, operating from early morning until around midnight. Some tram lines also offer night services on weekends.

Buses: Buses in Vienna provide additional transportation options, especially for areas not covered by the U-Bahn or tram lines. The bus network is comprehensive and operates throughout the day, with limited night services available.

S-Bahn: The S-Bahn is Vienna’s suburban train system, connecting the city center with outer districts and neighboring towns. The S-Bahn offers a convenient mode of travel for day trips outside of Vienna, with regular services to destinations like Mödling and Klosterneuburg.

Vienna Airport Lines: If you’re arriving at Vienna International Airport, you can easily reach the city center using the Vienna Airport Lines buses. These buses provide direct connections to various locations in Vienna, making it a hassle-free option for travelers.

Tickets and fares: Vienna’s public transportation operates on a zone-based fare system. Tickets can be purchased at ticket machines or through a mobile app, and they are valid for multiple modes of transportation within a specified time frame. There are various ticket options available, including single trip tickets, day passes, and multi-day passes, allowing flexibility for solo travelers.

Accessibility: Vienna’s public transportation system is generally accessible for individuals with disabilities. The U-Bahn, trams, and buses are equipped with elevators and ramps to accommodate wheelchair users. Trams and buses also have designated seating areas for people with disabilities.

Tips: Some helpful tips when using Vienna’s public transportation include:

• Validate your ticket before boarding to avoid fines.
• Keep a map of the public transportation network handy or use a mobile app to plan your routes.
• Be aware of rush hour times, as public transportation can get crowded during peak times.
• Take note of any schedule changes, especially during holidays or weekends.
• Consider getting a Vienna City Card, which offers unlimited travel on public transportation for a specified duration and provides discounts on various attractions.

With its extensive network and user-friendly system, Vienna’s public transportation makes exploring the city convenient and accessible for solo travelers, allowing you to navigate with ease and make the most of your visit.

Day trips from Vienna

While Vienna offers a plethora of attractions and activities, taking a day trip from the city allows you to explore the surrounding regions and discover more of Austria’s beauty. Here are some popular day trip options from Vienna:

Salzburg: Known as the birthplace of Mozart and the setting for “The Sound of Music,” Salzburg is a charming city located just a few hours away from Vienna. Explore its historic old town, visit the iconic Salzburg Fortress, and immerse yourself in the city’s rich musical heritage.

Bratislava: Situated along the banks of the Danube River, the capital of Slovakia, Bratislava, is a quick and convenient day trip from Vienna. Explore the quaint old town, visit Bratislava Castle, and take in the scenic views of the river and the surrounding countryside.

Wachau Valley: Embark on a journey through the picturesque Wachau Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This stunning region is known for its vineyards, medieval castles, and charming riverside villages. Take a boat trip on the Danube River, visit the Melk Abbey, and sample the region’s celebrated wines.

Graz: Located in southern Austria, Graz is a city of cultural richness and stunning architecture. Visit the charming old town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and explore landmarks such as the Graz Clock Tower and the Kunsthaus Graz, a futuristic art museum.

Lake Neusiedl: For nature lovers, a trip to Lake Neusiedl is a perfect choice. Situated on the border between Austria and Hungary, this shallow, steppe lake is a haven for birdwatching, cycling, and sailing. Explore the National Park surrounding the lake and enjoy the serene beauty of this natural paradise.

Melk: Visit the picturesque town of Melk and its stunning Benedictine Abbey, perched atop a hill overlooking the Danube River. Take a guided tour of the abbey and its impressive library, and enjoy a leisurely stroll in the charming streets of this small town.

Eisenstadt: Explore the capital of the Burgenland region, Eisenstadt, and discover its rich musical heritage, as it was the home of composer Joseph Haydn. Visit the Esterházy Palace, where Haydn once worked, and enjoy the beauty of the surrounding countryside.

These day trips from Vienna offer a diverse range of experiences, from exploring historic cities to enjoying stunning natural landscapes. Whether you’re interested in culture, history, or nature, these nearby destinations will add depth and variety to your solo adventure in Austria.

Vienna is a captivating city that offers a wealth of experiences for solo travelers. From historic palaces and world-class museums to vibrant nightlife and mouthwatering cuisine, Vienna has something to delight every traveler’s senses.

Getting to Vienna is convenient, with its well-connected international airport and efficient public transportation system. Accommodation options cater to all budgets and preferences, ensuring a comfortable stay for solo travelers. The best time to visit Vienna depends on your interests, whether you prefer blooming spring gardens, lively summer festivals, or the enchanting ambiance of the Christmas markets.

Venice is considered a safe city for solo travelers, but it’s always important to exercise caution and be mindful of your surroundings. By following basic safety tips and using common sense, you can enjoy a worry-free trip in this vibrant city.

Vienna’s attractions are a testament to its rich history and cultural heritage. From the grandeur of Schönbrunn Palace to the exquisite art collections of the Kunsthistorisches Museum, there are countless must-see attractions that will leave you in awe. Exploring Vienna’s culinary scene is a delight, with traditional dishes like Wiener Schnitzel and Apfelstrudel tantalizing your taste buds.

Shopping enthusiasts will be spoiled for choice in Vienna, with its range of shopping streets, markets, and luxury boutiques. The city’s nightlife offers a mix of cozy pubs, elegant bars, and energetic clubs, ensuring that solo travelers can find the perfect spot to unwind and socialize.

Vienna’s efficient public transportation system makes it easy to explore the city and venture on day trips to nearby destinations. Whether you choose to visit the charming city of Salzburg, the scenic Wachau Valley, or the historic town of Bratislava, these day trips allow you to experience more of Austria’s beauty.

In conclusion, Vienna is an enchanting destination for solo travelers, offering a harmonious blend of history, culture, culinary delights, and vibrant experiences. Embark on your solo adventure in Vienna, immerse yourself in its richness, and create memories that will last a lifetime.

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One Day In Vienna: The Perfect Solo Travel Itinerary

When you think of Vienna, Austria, a few things probably come to mind: classical music , art , and coffee houses . But Vienna is far more than that. It is a city to be savored. The rich history, vibrant culture, and relaxed atmosphere of Austria’s capital beg visitors to slow down and truly enjoy their time – not simply snap an Instagram photo and hustle on to the next destination.

There is a subtle magic to the juxtaposition of Vienna’s bustling streets and quiet alleyways that is hard to find elsewhere. As the historical home of the Habsburg Empire , famous composers such as Mozart , Haydn , Schubert and Beethoven , and artists like Klimt , Schiele and Wagner , Vienna has no shortage of historical relevance and fascinating stories to tell.

Vienna is chock full of stunning palaces , incredible museums , tranquil courtyards, fascinating art galleries , old churches and delicious restaurants .

Although one day in Vienna may seem like too brief a visit (and more time is never a bad thing), when you’re traveling solo, it can be a lot easier to focus in on the most important sights and cut out the extra touristy stuff. Unless touristy stuff is your jam, in which case – don’t be afraid to add that stuff back in – you can easily tailor this itinerary to your interests.

Ready to explore this beautiful city? Let’s dive in and go through the best things to do in Vienna in just one day as a solo traveler (all of these spots will work great for trips with a travel buddy too, of course).

Vienna Travel Tips

When to visit vienna.

The best time to visit Vienna is from April to May or September to October. The weather is beautifully mild in the spring and fall and you can escape the summer crowds during these off-season months. Avoid traveling to Vienna between June and August if possible, as tourists swarm the city and hotel rates skyrocket.

How To Get Around Vienna

There are so many options for transportation in Vienna ! Many visitors (myself included) find that Vienna is such a walkable city , they can often get to most places comfortably on foot. For further distances or those with mobility considerations, Vienna’s tram system (which is 6th largest in the world!) is a delightful way to get from Point A to Point B while also seeing the city above ground.

An underground train system, public buses, taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are other easily accessible options. Explore more information on Vienna’s excellent public transportation system and find the best way to get around!

Pro Tip: Put Your Phone Down

Vienna is a city best experienced firsthand. Fight the urge to document every little moment on your Instagram Stories and tuck your smartphone away to soak up the city on a deeper level. Stop in at shops or restaurants that catch your eye. Strike up conversations with store owners or fellow coffee shop goers and learn their stories. Push yourself to try new things and take the time to be curious about your surroundings.

As a solo traveler, it can be tempting to bury your nose in your phone in order to fend off any social discomfort you might experience as someone going it alone. However, your adventures in Vienna will be so much more memorable and special if you fully live them in real time , versus merely being a witness to them through a phone screen. Resist the desire to “look busy” and simply be present. You’ll be so glad you did.

Learn more about exploring Vienna unplugged here .

Why This Vienna Itinerary Is Different

This guide to one day in Vienna is all about quality, not quantity. If you’re looking for a jam-packed, let’s-see-everything travel guide, this isn’t it, y’all. Instead, we’re going to focus on slowing down, savoring your surroundings, eating good food, listening to good music, and spending time outside.

Feel free to add in additional activities or swap out sights that are priorities for you personally – don’t be afraid to make this one day in Vienna your own !

What To Eat In Vienna

Vienna is famous for rich, hearty dishes such as Weiner schnitzel, but there is so much more to Viennese cuisine. If you’re a total foodie like me, be sure to take notes on what foods you should try during your time in Vienna! 

Savory Must-Eats In Vienna

• Wiener schnitzel is an obvious choice, but a necessary mention. This traditional Viennese dish is m ade from a thin veal cutlet that’s breaded and pan-fried in butter or oil (and yes, there’s a difference). Fresh lemon and parsley often top the schnitzel, and it’s usually served with Austrian potato salad – which, by the way, is very different from American potato salad.
• Erdäpfelsalat is that famous Austrian potato salad. No mayonnaise to be found in this version! Instead, it’s made with white wine vinegar, red onions, chives, some mustard, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. If you’re vegan or vegetarian, be sure to ask your waiter if their potato salad is made with chicken or meat stock. Typically served cold, many restaurants serve it warm in the winter.

Tafelspitz is a delicious, hearty dish made with beef or veal boiled in broth and usually served in the chillier fall and winter months. It is often accompanied by vegetables, horseradish and applesauce. Franz Joseph I, the former Emperor of Austria, was a big fan of tafelspitz, in case that tips the scales for you.

Wiener wurstel are Viennese sausages traditionally made from beef and pork, served with sharp mustard and easily found on street corners across Vienna. Perfect when paired with potato salad or other Austrian staples, these are a must.

Sweet Must-Eats In Vienna

Powidltascherl are plum jam turnovers whose name has a funny origin story. Back in the day, women making these delicious little desserts had to stir the batter for a long time . By hand. They would chit chat in order to pass the time, and the phrase “Das ist mir powidl” (which literally means “I don’t care”) somehow got intertwined with the baking of this dessert.

Apfelstrudel is German for apple strudel, AKA heaven in your mouth. Made from buttery, flaky pastry and stuffed with warm, stewed, cinnamon-y apples, apple strudel is a clear must-eat for any visitor to Vienna.

Sachertorte , Vienna’s most famous chocolate cake, is a delicious treat begging for a taste. Made with chocolate sponge cake interrupted by thin layers of apricot jam and topped with a semi-firm dark chocolate icing, sachertorte can be found all across the city. Its original home, the Sacher Hotel , is one of the most popular spots visitors flock to. An equally scrumptious version can be found at Demel , another one of Vienna’s famous bakeries.

Melange is a particular style of Viennese coffee that locals swear by and visitors often search for. Similar to a cappuccino this coffee drink is topped with half hot milk and half foamed milk. A perfect pick-me-up after a long morning wandering around Vienna.

Where To Stay In Vienna

There are lots of different options when it comes to accommodations in Vienna, ranging from backpacker-friendly hostels to 5-star luxury hotels. No matter your budget, you will find something to match your travel style in Vienna. Here are a few top options for all price ranges:

Budget Accommodations

• wombat CITY Hostels Vienna is the perfect choice for those on a budget looking for a boutique-style hostel with friendly staff in a convenient, central location.
• CH-Budget Center Rooms are another great option for travelers in search of a clean, comfortable place to stay.

Mid-Range Accommodations

• 25 Hours Hotel at MuseumsQuartier was an absolute dream to stay at during my time in Vienna. Beautifully designed, cozy but well-appointed rooms and common spaces, a rooftop bar, sauna, movie room, reading area, friendly staff, and the most insanely delicious breakfast buffet (included in your room rate!) Perfectly located in the MuseumsQuartier area, it is a quick and easy walk to dozens of famous museums, coffee shops, and historic neighborhoods such as Spittelberg.

Motel One Wien-Hauptbahnhof boasts a fresh, boutique hotel design and atmosphere, plentiful and delicious breakfast spread, and even a sprawling rooftop lounge space.

Luxury Accommodations

Palais Coburg was literally built for royalty – a prince, to be exact. It’s no wonder that this 5-star hotel feels both exclusive (with only 33 suites available) and luxurious.

Hotel Sacher Wien is known for being the original home of the sachertorte (chocolate cake) and is perfectly situated right across from the Vienna State Opera House. Classic, historic, and opulent, a stay at this hotel is a truly unique Viennese experience.

One Day In Vienna: A Relaxed Itinerary

Eat a hearty breakfast.

Whether you choose to eat your first meal of the day at your hotel’s breakfast buffet (ahem – another casual plug for 25 Hours Hotel and their amazing breakfast spread) or want to try some more traditional Austrian foods, there are plenty of options.

Here are a couple breakfast spots for you to choose from:

• Palmenhaus at Burggarten is an epic way to start your first day in Vienna. Dining in a glass greenhouse filled to the ceiling with lush climbing plants and palm trees is the most unique way to enjoy your breakfast experience. Located next to the National Library and Hofburg Imperial Palace, it’s the perfect place to start your Vienna adventures.

Vollpension is an adorable, socially-conscious brunch spot run by Austrian grannies. Feels like stepping into the coziest cafe ever, tastes like your grandmother’s cooking. Because it is. The concept is based around providing a place for retired folks in Vienna to work in a relaxed environment, injecting some meaning and purpose into their often lonely, quiet days. The cafe serves as a space for young and old people to interact while offering up the most delicious recipes. Best idea ever, right?

Pick Your Museum(s) Of Choice

My top museum recommendation is the Kunsthistoriches Museum Wien (Art History Museum) because of its central location, incredibly diverse collection, exquisite architecture and design, and overall wow factor.

Opened in 1891, it is the largest art museum in the country, even housing the massive 2000+ piece art collection from the royal Habsburg Family . It is both visually stunning and historically invaluable.

Don’t miss the glorious marble-halled café featuring plush red velvet seating situated under the gorgeous cupola of the museum. Take the elevator up to the top floor for an incredible bird’s eye view of the café (as pictured above) and closer look at the ceiling details.

Allow 1-2 hours to explore here, depending on your interest level. More time if you’re an art history fanatic.

Note: Cameras are allowed (even DSLRs) as long as you don’t use flash. Backpacks or large bags can be left with coat room attendants and stored for free during your visit but are not allowed inside the museum.

Pro Tip: Stop By The Palace of Justice

Vienna’s stunning Palace of Justice is a quick and easy add-on to your one day in Vienna itinerary, and shouldn’t be missed! This historic building features incredibly intricate architecture, pastel colors, a sweeping staircase topped by Lady Justice, and even rooftop views from the building’s cafeteria.

As this is a working, fully functional government building , you will need to pass through a security checkpoint before entering the building. The security team will ask you to leave certain things (like umbrellas) with them during your time at the Palace of Justice, which you can then pick up on your way out.

To access the beautiful rooftop views, take the elevator (located right inside the main part of the building to the left – it’s a bit hidden!) up to the top floor and pop outside to take in the fresh air and gorgeous 360-degree overview of Vienna . This area is a cafeteria for the workers, so be respectful of their space and the fact that they likely don’t want tourists swarming their lunch hour. I recommend going early on in the morning to avoid any lunchtime crowds.

Justizpalast – Th e Palace of Justice Address: Schmerlingplatz 10, 1010 Vienna Opening times: Monday-Friday 07-16:30h

Other museums you may want to explore:

• The Belvedere is a Baroque palace housing works by some of Austria’s most famous and valuable artists (Klimt, for example!)

The Naturhistorisches Museum (Natural History Museum) is perfect for earth and natural history lovers , complete with dinosaur hall.

• The Leopold Museum is a unique museum that is home to an extensive Viennese art nouveau collection. Best for modern art enthusiasts. Contains the largest Egon Schiele collection in the world.
• The Albertina was established in 1776 and currently contains over 1 million prints and 60,000 drawings (so – just a few!) Featuring works by renowned artists like Monet , Klimt , Degas, Renoir , Dürer, Picasso , Rothko , and more, it’s a can’t-miss museum for art fans of all kinds.

More detailed museum information available here!

Eat Lunch At A Cafe

From traditional Viennese bistros to sidewalk cafés, gastropubs, vegan/vegetarian options and more, Vienna has something for everyone ! Depending on your choice of museum and what neighborhood you end up in, you’ll have no shortage of culinary options at your fingertips. Explore a wide variety of delicious food spots here .

Try Vienna’s Most Famous Dessert

Yep, it’s time to try that good ol’ Sachertorte. Just go for it. Thank me later. You can grab a slice of the Viennese cake at its original home, the Sacher Hotel or try its competitor’s version at Demel , one of Vienna’s beloved bakeries.

Spend Some Time Outdoors

Vienna is recognized as being one of the greenest cities in the world ! With roughly half of its urban space dedicated to parks or open land, a green space is never hard to find. Pick a spot, bring a book, and spend an hour or so relaxing in one of Vienna’s beautiful outdoor spaces. Read more here.

In the mood for something more active? Take a bike ride! For around 4 euro an hour, you can easily rent a bicycle and explore Vienna on two wheels.

Take A Break At A Classic Coffee Shop

Pausing in the afternoon for a coffee shop break is standard fare for the Viennese, and should be a part of your one day in Vienna plan as well. Giving your legs a break after all that museum wandering while getting a little pick-me-up will recharge you for the second half of your day.

Sitting in a cozy, plush booth or classic wooden table while people-watching as Vienna passes you by will give you a fresh perspective on the people and the city you are lucky enough to be exploring. Don’t underestimate the value of taking a break during your travels – it often offers a renewed sense of appreciation and curiosity which will serve you well during your trip.

Top Viennese Coffee Shop Recommendations

• Café Central , Herrengasse/Strauchgasse, 1010 Wien
• Café Korb , Brandstätte 9, 1010 Wien
• Café Sperl , Gumpendorfer Straße 11, 1060 Wien
• Café Hawelka , Dorotheergasse 6 , 1010 Wien
• Café Jelinek , Otto-Bauer-Gasse 5, 1060 Wien
• Café Schwarzenberg , Kärntner Ring 17, 1010 Wien

More coffee shop tips here.

Let Yourself Wander

One of the best things to do in Vienna is let go of expectations and simply enjoy strolling around the city. Release the need to schedule out every second of your day and let yourself wander. Turn down streets that look interesting. Pop in and out of shops that catch your eye. Peek into one of the city’s many historic churches .

Your most memorable moments will always come from experiences like this – don’t be afraid to slow down and soak up each magical corner of Vienna at whatever pace feels comfortable to you.

Go On A Solo Dinner Date

Take yourself out for a delicious meal before moving on to your evening activities. There are so many different options, you’re sure to find something you like! Here are a few choices to get you started:

• Augustinerkeller Bitzinger (Austrian), Augustinerstraße 1, 1010 Wien, Austria
• Veggiezzz (Vegan), Opernring 6, 1010 Wien, Austria
• Ganesha (Indian), Antonigasse 9 Martinstrasse, Vienna 1180 Austria
• ef16 Restaurant (Austrian), Fleischmarkt 16 | 1010 Vienna , Vienna 1010, Austria
• Naschmarkt (open-air market), Kettenbrückengasse, Vienna 1040, Austria

Experience Vienna’s Famous Music Scene

Did you know that you can see the world-famous Vienna State Opera for just 3 euro ? It’s true! By showing up 80-90 minutes before showtime, you can get in line for these crazy cheap tickets and enjoy the opera for yourself. Note that these aree standing-room only tickets, which means…you’ll be standing for quite awhile.

Wear comfortable shoes and bring a scarf (for tying around the railing to “reserve” your spot once you get inside).

Another fun, affordable option is going to see a string quartet perform famous Viennese composers’ work inside a historic church (highly recommend!) for around 25 euro. The Classic Ensemble Vienna frequently performs pieces by artists like Mozart, Hadyn and Schubert inside the ornately designed St. Peter’s Church . Fair warning: the beauty of it all may or may not make you cry a little.

The Vienna Philharmonic is also a popular choice for visitors and locals alike. More information can be found here .

Have more time in Vienna?

I’ve got you covered! Additional 2 and 3-day Vienna itineraries are coming soon!

Thanks again to the lovely folks at the Vienna Tourist Board for sponsoring this trip and hosting me during my first time in Vienna. I already can’t wait to go back for more!

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10 thoughts on “One Day In Vienna: The Perfect Solo Travel Itinerary”

Enjoyed your post, and your pictures were great.. It reminded me of our short visit to Vienna last summer. We also enjoyed walking around and looking at all the amazing buildings and eating some wonderful food. Hope to make it back soon. Thanks for sharing and for the memories.

I’ve been to Vienna several times. It has become my favorite city in the world! Thanks for sharing some tips of places even I’ve not ventured. Any excuse to return is always welcome. Just exploring it’s fabulous and varied hotels can keep one busy for years – I’ll now have to try 25hour hotel … I still think moving there “might” be the best idea !?

Loved catching a glimpse of Vienna’s transportation infrastructure in one of your videos, and I appreciate the links you provide in this post for more details about bicycling and public transportation. Here’s to more walkable and bicycle-friendly cities, with excellent public transportation too!

This is a great guide! I’m thinking of exploring Austria in the summer so this is a great start for some Vienna inspiration!

Great guide. I so love Vienna. I’ve been numerous times, but there is so much to discover. I just love roaming the streets with no particular destination and soak in all Vienna has to offer. Thanks for the tip with the Palace of Justice, haven’t been in yet. And i totally second Vollpension as a recommendation. It is such a quirky cafe / restaurant and the food is just delicious.

What a wonderful guide! I spent 2 days in Vienna solo and despite the cold and wind (it was January) I enjoyed myself. I just hear Sachertorte and I find myself dreaming of being back in the hotel enjoying a slice with hot chocolate. And, as a film lover, I loved seeing spots in the city where The Third Man was filmed. Wishing I was back now.

Perfect and oh so pretty! Everything I needed to know about Vienna is here. Can’t wait to try the Powidltascherl!!

Vienna is next on my bucketlist and seeing your gorgeous pictures has me ready to go now! It looks so completely unique!

You have me over here DROOOOLING with all these pictures! I’m amazed you can squeeze so many things in one day!

Beautiful photos. Wished I’d seen this post before my recent trip

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SHE GO WANDERING

The Ultimate Female Travel Magazine

10 tips to travel alone to Vienna

Another city you should have on your bucket list if you’re looking for European cities to travel alone too! See the highlights for a perfect for solo trip to Vienna. I have visited Vienna so many times and I still find it magical and a city I go back to again and again. Traveling to Vienna alone is so easy and you will have the best time, I can promise that. You get to do so many different things, from discovering the culture, the food to going to different events being held in the city. The question we need to ask is ‘is Vienna safe for solo female travellers?’. Considering I have been there alone, I can confirm it most definitely is. in Vienna nobody will bother you, the locals are kind to you.

In this article, I will share with you the 10 tips to travel alone to Vienna and my experience of visiting the famous capital of Austria. I will share the best hostels in Vienna for solo travellers so you can save some money and spend it on other items instead! I tried to make Vienna solo travel an appealing idea for everyone. I want to share the unusual things you should do in Vienna, not just the famous attractions. Whenever you go to a city, people always tell you to visit the same attractions that everyone has pictures of, however, when you are traveling alone , you should also try to look for not-so-popular options and tell your friends about it later. Let’s see if we can answer the questions of ‘is Vienna safe to travel alone?’.

1. How to travel to Vienna

When you are taking a solo trip to Vienna it is important how do you actually get to Vienna. Just like in Germany, trains are absolutely amazing in Vienna. Wien Hauptbahnhof is Vienna’s central station. You have multiple connections within the country, so in case you are in Austria already and want to have a look at the beautiful capital city for solo travelers , you have some options. Although the tickets are usually expensive, just like with everything, if you book it in advance you can get away with good prices.

Traveling to Vienna alone can also be safe by plane. I would say that plane tickets are probably more affordable most of the time when you are traveling from abroad. I found tickets many times for like £60, without the option to have bigger luggage, however, you wouldn’t need that for a weekend trip to Vienna. You would arrive at Vienna International Airport and you’ll be able to take the train straight away to Vienna’s Central station. Let’s see why is Vienna safe for solo female travellers in the next sections.

2. When to visit Vienna

Vienna is one of those cities that is ideal to visit during any season. There are so many events taking place during the year, the scenery is beautiful throughout all 4 seasons, so you really can’t go wrong either way. If you are looking for more summer activities, then probably early June is the best as the weather is forgiving and you can take more walks. If you do visit during summer, you will experience more tourists in the city. I did visit in June and it wasn’t really that crowded. I found it perfect for my Vienna solo travel.

I have to recommend traveling to Vienna alone during winter. The city center is truly magical when the snow falls down and the decorations make it extra special. All the stores have major discounts, Christmas presents, hot chocolate at small boutique stands, and much more. You would have to really dress up for this season. The temperature can drop to -5 degrees too. I will recommend some suitcase essentials in a bit, so keep on reading. More on why is Vienna safe to travel alone in the next parts!

3. Where to stay in Vienna

While traveling to Vienna it is very important where you stay. In order to save some money, these are the best hostels in Vienna for solo travellers: Vienna Hostel Ruthensteiner, Vienna Boutique Hostel, and CH-Hostel. All of these are really affordable and you will be able to connect with others while traveling to Vienna alone. The prices will change on the time you decide to visit, but they can be as cheap as £15/night (€18). You can’t get any better than that. These hostels just prove how is Vienna safe to travel alone.

For my solo trip to Vienna, I decided to stay at a hotel. This was such a great experience. Boutiquehotel Stadthalle in Vienna is an eco-friendly hotel with a beautiful garden where you can have your breakfast and later have some coffee or read a book in one of their egg chairs. The staff was truly amazing, organic breakfast in the morning, their eco-friendly rooms give a gorgeous experience. I woke up well-rested and ready to conquer Vienna. The hotel is also near the Central Train station and about 15-20 minutes away from the city center by train.

4. What to eat in Vienna

When it comes to food, Vienna is just perfect to try out some authentic Austrian dishes . There are so many options out there, how do you know which ones are the best? Well, when taking a solo trip to Vienna it is important that you come prepared yet it is also important that you explore while you are there. Sure, a restaurant that has received multiple good reviews is surely a good restaurant, however, that does not mean you shouldn’t try out other foods or places that might have opened up recently and no one has given them good reviews.

These are some of the restaurants and pubs you should visit while traveling to Vienna alone. For authentic Austrian dishes the must visits are: Zur Herknerin, Melker Stiftskeller, Gasthaus Rebhuhn and Durchhaus. The best international restaurants: Bella Santi, DiningRuhm, Spice of India, Yak und Yeti, and Curry On Fire. In case you are looking to have some drinks, here are the best pubs: Cafe Mendez, Leo HILLINGER Wineshop & Bar Wien-Wollzeile, Aurora Rooftop Bar, and Gruner Kakadu Bar. Which one was your favorite restaurant and bar to go to?

5. Entertainment and Museums

Let’s talk about entertainment in Vienna. Of course, you have your major tourist attractions such as the Historic Hofburg, Schönbrunn Palace and Gardens, St. Stephen’s Cathedral, Belvedere Palace, Vienna Zoo, and so on. Everyone talks about these and I am sure you will be able to find them. I have a list of famous attractions to visit right here! What I did not talk about is the amusement park, the Prater. The original name is Wurstelprater is a huge amusement park in Leopoldstadt. In order to enter the amusement park, it is free of charge, however, the individual rides can be between € 1,50 and € 5,00. If you are looking for some fun, definitely come here for a day!

Now, what about the nightlife? Is Vienna safe for solo female travellers who want to have some fun at night? As I always say, when you are traveling alone , you can go out at night, but it is always better to do so with someone you know. Might even be the people you met at one of the best hostels in Vienna for solo travellers. Some nightclubs are like Club U, Palffy Nightclub or Babylon Wien. Don’t forget to also check for events during that time you are visiting. When I was there for a few days I stumbled upon a street music festival. It was really fun!

6. Prepare an itinerary

Let’s see how to plan your solo trip to Vienna. Whenever you go somewhere always come up with some sort of a plan on what you are going to do. It will save you so much time and energy once you are there. Maybe you have been advised on a certain place to visit by one of your friends, great. Just add that to your itinerary. In case you are going for 3 days, you have plenty of time to visit most of the attractions. Have your tickets booked prior to arriving so you can skip the long queues.

Try to also plan how you are moving around the city based on where you are staying. For me it was easy, having stayed at the Boutiquehotel Stadthalle, I was so close to the city center and also to Schönbrunn palace. I was amazed by how quickly I could arrive everywhere and if I wanted to take back my shopping to the room, I could do so easily and then be out and about again. It can be that easy! More on why is Vienna safe to travel alone and why is Vienna safe for solo female travellers!

7. Try something new

This is my favorite part. The part that nobody really talks about because every tourist (including myself) always visits the same famous attractions everyone else does. You should absolutely do that too, although if you have more time, why not just try out new things and find new places? This is for your Vienna solo travel! Did you know there is a Museum of Death in Vienna? Kriminalmuseum tells a story from the Middle Ages until the ending of the current era focusing on murder. Spooky, but very fun! The Hundertwasserhaus is one of my favorites for sure. This interesting looking building was designed by Friedensreich Regentag Dunkelbunt Hundertwasser, one of the most famous artists in Vienna.

The Fool’s Tower or The Narrenturm was originally a pyichiatric hospital opened in 1784. Due to its immense collection of pathological objects, to be more precise, 50,000 objects, it became number one in the world. To spoke you even more, there is a Funeral Museum which as founded in 1967. What can you find here? A collection of over 1000 items related to Viennese funerals. Traveling to Vienna alone is really exciting right? Why not kick it off with a visit to the Clock Museum? See over 700 clock and for anyone with OCD, this is going to please you: they are laid out in chronological order!

8. Suitcase essentials

What to pack for Vienna then? I think i don’t have to say how it depends on which season are you traveling in. Depending on the weather you want to still make sure you have warm clothes. Even if it is summer, it might get chilly during the night. There can be rainy days in Vienna, which means a raincoat is always a must. I would also suggest not taking too many fancy clothes. If you are staying at one of the best hostels in Vienna for solo travellers you want to make sure you are dressing casually. I always recommend bringing a universal adaptor if you are from countries with 3 ended plug.

Your solo trip to Vienna is all about having fun. Bring yourself a powerbank, a tripod in case you are doing some vlogs or you want to take photos of yourself and you’re too embarrassed to ask strangers to take them for you. Don’t forget to print out any tickets you have booked, although having them on your phone are more handy, however, in case your phone decides to give up on you, they are just easy to have at hand on paper. Also make sure to pack your smile and a great sense of adventure! Let’s see the last reasons why is Vienna safe to travel alone.

9. Learn about the culture

Just like I mentioned in a few other articles of my solo travels, I will say the same for this Vienna solo travel. Before you go to any foreign country, learn about the culture, language and people and learn how to respect all of these. Just as you would expect tourists to respect your country, they also expect you to be mindful of theirs when visiting. When you go to a restaurant (and if your pocket allows you), you should tip the waiters 10% of the amount of the bill. Don’t assume that your German knowledge will do good here. Austrians have a different dialect and you should expect to not understand the typical phrases you might know in German already. Just watch a few videos and learn the important phrases!

Austria is also very bycicle friendly, so watch the bicycle paths as they are laid out everywhere you go. In case you are going on a weekend, expect shops and stores to be closed early. As Austria is a Catholic country, they are practicing this law of closing supermarkets early. So try to plan your trip around this as well! If you read my article about 10 tips to travel alone to Berlin then you know they have many protests. Vienna is the same, so please respect the people on the streets. Try to look it up online if you are curious about the protest. Let’s see my last tip on why is Vienna safe to travel alone.

10. Safety tips

Seems like you are in luck as a solo trip to Vienna is very safe to do so. Not only that, but also is Vienna safe for solo female travellers? Yes it is. Vienna is considered one of the safest cities in Europe to visit. It is very low on crime, even if the city is crowded, you will still find it relaxing and you don’t always have to look behind your shoulder thinking someone is going to rob you. Even in the best hostels in Vienna for solo travellers you will feel relaxed.

With that being said, nobody should be too relaxed when in a foreign country. Watch your pockets, if you are on public transport just keep your bags closed, don’t fall asleep on trains at night, try to avoid very empty streets at night and try to dress casually instead of bringing your most expensive clothes. Surely there will be people dressing in a fancy way, but they are always a prize for pocket pickers. Don’t be one of those! Besides that, just enjoy your time, Vienna is fun and beautiful!

Traveling to Vienna alone – Conclusion

This concludes our list of tips for solo trip to Vienna. We hope you have enjoyed reading about these tips, I certainly enjoyed my Vienna solo travel. I am going back for more and hopefully I will be able to discover even more unusual places while traveling to Vienna alone. As far as safety and if is Vienna safe for solo female travellers and is Vienna safe to travel alone, we recommend it 100%. You will feel safe and the locals will make you feel like home.

In case you have any other tips when visiting Vienna or more of the best hostels in Vienna for solo travellers, just comment below and share with anyone else reading and trying to have a good trip in Vienna! Also, don’t forget to check out out posts for solo traveling in Malaga , London , and Berlin !

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Two Perfect Days in Vienna, Austria: My Solo Itinerary

Austria , Europe , Travel | July 3, 2016

This post contains affiliate links, which means I may make a small commission if you buy anything mentioned here. It doesn't cost you anything extra.

I spent two days in Vienna recently and I still can’t believe how much sightseeing I managed to do in such short amount of time. Despite my Vienna itinerary suggesting a crazy dash across the city; from the top of a cathedral tower to wine taverns in the suburbs, I actually had a wonderfully laid-back weekend in Wien , as it’s known by locals.

So how did I see so much of Vienna in just two days, without spending a fortune?

The  Vienna Pass gives you access to all of Vienna’s top tourist attractions and even transport options, allowing you to easily see the best of Vienna in two days. I bought one online the night before my weekend in Vienna and highly recommend getting one for your trip if you’re planning to do a lot of sightseeing.

I didn’t spend a single penny on any ‘tourist’ stuff during my entire weekend in Vienna aside from the cost of the card. Vienna has an overwhelming number of artsy attractions, so it’s good to go equipped with an idea of what you want to see!

Here’s my complete two day Vienna itinerary and some pictures from my solo jaunt, in case you want to copy – or you just love gorgeous architecture.

My itinerary for two days in Vienna: What to do and where to go

This Vienna itinerary covers all the best places to go and what to see in Vienna in two days. It follows my exact trip. So it’s tried and tested by me!

I’ve also included (at the end of this post) tips for where to stay in Vienna, the best Vienna tours and how to get around the city. I’d like to think I’ve created the ultimate guide to a perfect weekend break in Vienna so do let me know if you use this itinerary to plan your own trip!

Day 1 in Vienna: Schönbrunn Palace, Vienna Zoo and Graben

If you don’t invest in the Vienna Card, you can hop on a 16 minute train from the airport into the city. Buy your ticket online beforehand for less hassle at Arrivals.

After breakfast at one of Veinna’s many coffeehouses (the 1950s style Café Prückel is iconic), I caught the 58 tram right outside my hostel, Wombats and trundled along to Schönbrunn Palace .

I was glad I got there early because even at 9am, crowds were beginning to form in the vast courtyard. You could easily spend a whole day at Schönbrunn Palace but I had a city to see, so I went to start the tour of the buttermilk yellow building’s open rooms.

Take a Schönbrunn Palace Grand Tour

Tickets available here

Schönbrunn Palace would be perfect for a monster game of hide and seek with your whole class at school. This is Austria’s most visited attraction and has been kept in remarkably good nick.

The palace was the summer residence of the Habsburgs, the Austrian monarchs. It’s a Vienna must see.

The Grand Tour takes 40 minutes and you can see 40 of the exquisite palace’s 1,441 rooms. You get an audio book that feeds you little snippets of palace gossip as you wander from room to room.

As well as the apartments of Emperor Franz Joseph and his wife Elisabeth (who had no time for her husband whatsoever, by the sound of it), you’ll also see the magnificent  Hall of Ceremonies , the imposing  Gobelin Salon  with its exquisite Brussels tapestries as well as the room now known as the  Millions Room  on account of its precious panelling of rare rosewood.

Fun fact: Mozart gave his very first concert in the Mirror Room, at the tender age of six.

Wander around the palace grounds

I don’t know if it’s just because I had grown used to Dubai’s pollution, but the first thing I noticed about Vienna was how clean the air felt. I later learned that over 50% of the city is green, and Schönbrunn Palace’s grounds definitely contribute to that. The expansive grounds are actually free to enter, and plenty of locals were out for morning jogs when I visited.

I could get lost in those grounds for days.

The Rose Garden, overlooked by Sisi’s balcony, is a perfumed oasis in the pristine palace grounds. I had that old country song ‘I beg your pardon, I never promised you a rose garden…’ in my head the whole time I was there.

Next to the east palace facade lies the tranquil Privy Garden and Orangerie.

The Vienna Pass gives you a free ride on the cute little train, if you don’t feel like walking. I took it up to the Gloriette, which was the final flick of the architect’s pen when he designed Schönbrunn Palace. It’s worth the ride for a wonderful vantage point of the gardens, and you can then walk down and explore.

Some teenage girls took this picture for me and I didn’t care one bit that they probably laughed at me later.

See pandas at Vienna Zoo

The world’s oldest zoo just so happens to be the most beautiful, too. I thought so, anyway. Hidden away in the palace grounds, the zoo was built in 1752 and houses elephants, pandas, fabulous flamencos and plenty of other animals. I was kind of expecting a few parrots and a goat so this was a pleasant surprise.

I got to the penguin enclosure for feeding time.

The animal enclosures splay out from the pavilion, which was once a fancy breakfast room.

Catch an Apple Strudel Show

Yes, you read that right. After my wander, I went to a surprisingly entertaining baking class in the imperial bakery at Café Resident, in the grounds of Schönbrunn Palace. The young baker showed us how to make the iconic Viennese dessert, stretching the pastry thinly using her elbows!

Visit the Imperial Carriage Museum

Another surprise in the palace grounds was the carriage museum. Is anyone else obsessed with how the other half live?

The museum’s magnificent baroque carriages offer an insight into court life – coronations and weddings, long journeys and hunts, and even funeral processions. It documents the lives of rulers like Maria Theresa, Franz Joseph and the French Emperor Napoleon. The funeral carriage was definitely my favourite, but this elaborate design left me in awe.

Some of Sisi’s sickening “Viennese wasp waist” dresses are also displayed, which made me realise where people got the idea for those ridiculous ‘waist trainers’ the Kardashians flog.

All of the Vienna attractions detailed up to this point are located in the palace grounds, so you can visit them all on the same day.

Check out these tickets you can buy online in advance for Schönbrunn Palace tours and activities.

Top Vienna tip : One great thing about the Vienna Pass is you get unlimited rides on the city’s Hop On Hop Off bus for free. Vienna is kind of sprawling, so it’s worth buying the bus ticket if you don’t buy the Vienna Pass itself.

Tour the city

After a long morning learning about Vienna’s most frivolous family, I rode the yellow line past Belvedere Palace to the State Opera House .

I had missed the last walking tour of the day so I explored Kärntner Strasse alone then hopped on the red line at the same stop outside the State Opera and cruised some of the  Ringstrasse, sauntered along the Danube, where you can do a boat tour , then up crooked, sloping streets filled with locals sipping sundowners towards Graben.

I may have only had 48 hours in Vienna, but I was determined to enjoy a little bit of the local nightlife!

Shop and people watch on Graben

Graben is one of Vienna’s most famous city streets, packed with shoppers by day and partiers by night. It says a lot about a city when even the H&M is in a stunning building!

One thing I loved about wandering Vienna aimlessly was just following the crowd. I saw people filing in to grand buildings and tailed in after them to listen to classical music in awe-inspiring churches. Sometimes I’d lose my way but the chimes from St Stephen’s Cathedral soon situated me.

Vienna put on quite a sunset for my first night!

Eat local dishes

Want to know where to eat local food in Vienna? I ate dinner at a tiny Hungarian restaurant in a side street off Graben. It was called Braunerstrasse and they served me beef goulash with gnocchi and a jaunty little red wine. Then it was back to Wombats for a rest!

Day 2 in Vienna: The Museums Quarter, a Viennese Wine Village and St Stephen’s Cathedral

On my second morning in Vienna I stuck to the red line of the Hop On Hop Off bu s, exploring the city’s plethora of cultural and historic buildings. I started in the Museums Quarter , which was once the imperial stables. 

There are around 70 attractions housed in the 18th and 19th century buildings today, making it one of the largest arts and culture complexes in the world, so I had to seriously prioritise!

Some things I wish I’d had time to see were the mumok , Leopold Museum and the Museum of Natural History .

Kunsthistorisches Museum

The stunning  Kunsthistorisches  is the home of priceless art treasures from five millennia, such as the world’s largest collection of Bruegel paintings.  I rushed around it and saw Benvenuto Cellini’s Salt Cellar (Saliera), which is basically a naughty salt and pepper shaker.

The gardens are just as beautiful as the inside of these buildings, and it’s the perfect place to stop with a picnic.

The Albertina

Back towards the State Opera, The Albertina is part of the largest Habsburg residential palace, Hofburg Palace , and it houses famous works by Monet, Picasso and Cezanne, among other great artists.

There are also endless selfie opportunities in the opulent chambers.

I’d definitely had my fill of culture by this point so I spent the afternoon reversing that with booze. I took the green line from City Hall to the quaint wine village of Grinzing , which is one of the best places to visit from Vienna. As we drove out of the city centre, we passed apartments where Einstein and Mozart once holed up and worked on their craft.

Did you know that Mozart lived in around 85 different apartments in Vienna? Well, would you want a piano-playing neighbour?

Grinzing wine village

Another fun fact: Vienna is the only capital city which produces wine! I felt like I had stepped back in time when I hopped off the bus at Grinzing, and spent the afternoon sampling the local grog in wine taverns called “Heuriger”.

I semi-enjoyed a local meal of smoked pork, grilled sausage, parsley potatoes and sauerkraut with a tankard of house wine, which was just €1.50.

See the opera or a concert

I had read that you buy cheap standing tickets for the opera if you go to the door labelled Operngasse, however I was wearing denim Levi cutoffs and, predictably, they didn’t let me in. Probably should’ve realised I was a little underdressed.

If you do want to experience the opera or a concert during your weekend in Vienna, take your pick from the options below.

St Stephen’s Cathedral

Tickets include a tour of the catacombs and are  available here

Luckily, St Stephen’s Cathedral’s tower was still open at 7pm, so I was able to get a birds eye view of the city I had explored so thoroughly by night at the top of the 14th century Romanesque and Gothic cathedral. In my opinion, this is the best view in Vienna and going to the top is one of the best things to do there.

I spent my final evening drinking Hugos on Graben and feeling pleased with myself for having pulled off such a successful solo weekend in Vienna.

I left Vienna feeling super confident about solo travel, and I hope this post helps anyone planning two days in Vienna with lots of inspiration for what to see!

If you’re traveling around Austria, check out my guide to the stunning Vorarlberg region too.

More things to do in Vienna

These are activities I didn’t have time for during my two days in Vienna, but they’re all on my list for next time!

Best day trips from Vienna

If you’re in Vienna for a longer stretch and want to get out of the city and explore Austria, you can do a Sound of Music tour to Salzburg or book a trip through the Alps to Hallstatt .

Getting to Vienna

You can find cheap flights to Vienna from destinations around the world on Skyscanner .

If you’re taking the train from elsewhere in Europe as part of a longer backpacking trip, an Interrail pass might be the most cost effective solution.

Check out my 10 day Europe backpacking itinerary for more inspiration!

Getting around Vienna

The deciding factor for me when mulling over purchasing the Vienna Pass was that it can be used on the Hop On Hop Off buses. There are 6 routes with over 50 stops, meaning you can create your own itinerary based on your interests. There’s also a free walking tour, but I kept missing it! Worst tourist ever.

I used the red line to see the inner city’s cultural attractions, the yellow line to see Schönbrunn Palace and the green line to venture out of the city to the wine region. Yes, Vienna has ALL OF THE WINE and it’s served in the cutest pubs ever.

Where to stay in Vienna

Budget Vienna accommodation

I’d asked fellow travel bloggers for advice about where to stay in Vienna as a solo traveller and the verdict was unanimous:  Wombats Hostel .

An 8 Euro shuttle bus from the airport stops outside Westbahnof and you walk through the station until you find the Mariahilfer Straße exit. Wombats is right there!

Vienna Hostel Ruthensteiner and ABAI Hostel also come highly recommended.

Mid-range options for Vienna

For a mid-range budget, check out Boutiquehotel Stadthalle , 25hours Hotel beim MuseumsQuartier and Hotel Daniel Vienna , all of which have solid reviews.

Luxury hotels in Vienna

If you’re looking for a more luxurious place to stay in Vienna, the Palais Hansen Kempinski , Grand Hotel Wien and Hotel Bristol all look super fancy.

Browse all Vienna accommodation options on booking.com .

More Vienna travel tips

Use my Travel Resources page to book your weekend in Vienna

Trying to decide how long to spend in Vienna? I did my best with the short time I had, but the city’s wealth of cultural and historic attractions means you could easily spend four or five days there without running out of things to do in Vienna.

If you’re into collecting guidebooks for the places you visit, the Lonely Planet Guide to Austria , or the Vienna guide, are great purchases.

It’s wise to get travel insurance for a trip to Vienna. Travellers all over the world use World Nomads .

Is Vienna on your travel bucket list, or have you already visited? I’d love to hear about things I might have missed during my short trip! Of course, this itinerary is for a solo trip to Vienna but you could easily use it for a trip with friends or family.

You can follow my adventures on Facebook , Twitter , Instagram.  You can also  subscribe  to my newsletter to make sure you never miss a post.

All photographs were taken on my Olympus Pen E-PL7.

Sam Rickelton says

July 3, 2016 at 6:36 pm

Oh I would LOVE the apple strudel lesson! Vienna looks lovely.

Vyjay Rao says

July 7, 2016 at 8:43 am

Vienna is lovely and has been on our dream list for some time, however not yet able to get there till now. Loved your detailed post and your exploits there. The palace is what we would like to explore first and it would be lovely stroll around the Grinzing village.

itsanoorthing says

July 7, 2016 at 6:43 pm

This trip sounds incredible, you have definitely out Vienna on my bucket list!

wanderingwagarschristina says

July 7, 2016 at 10:27 pm

I really enjoyed wandering around the streets of Vienna. I also purchased the Vienna pass. I found I visited more places than I planned because I had a pass. It was such a good deal.

evan kristine says

July 8, 2016 at 2:10 pm

Great tips! I’ve personally never been to Vienna but hopefully one day I’ll get my chance 🙂

Lyndsay says

July 10, 2016 at 9:28 pm

Wow, Vienna is such a beautiful city. I’ve never been but I’d love to visit one day. Great idea about the Vienna Pass, seems like you made quite a saving!

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August 02, 2022

The essential guide to traveling solo in vienna.

It is not easy to travel solo. That's why there are some things that you need to know before you go to Vienna.

Vienna is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe and it is a popular tourist destination. It has a rich cultural heritage and a unique atmosphere. The city is perfect for solo travelers, who are looking for a destination that offers historical sights, stunning architecture, delicious food and drink, and an unmatched quality of life.

The best thing about Vienna is that there are so many different types of restaurants to choose from. You can find high-end restaurants, fast food joints, and everything in between.

The city of Vienna is well-known for its public transport system. It has a variety of different options and the public transport network is very extensive. This makes it easy to get around the city and explore the beautiful sights that Vienna has to offer.

It is also one of the most affordable cities in Europe. Here are some tips to help you enjoy Vienna as a solo traveler: 

1. Get the Vienna Card - The Vienna Card will give you free entry to more than 60 museums, discounts on public transportation, and discounts on certain restaurants. 

2. Consider staying outside of the city center - This will allow you to save money on accommodations and have more time to explore the beautiful countryside. 

3. Take advantage of free walking tours - These tours are led by knowledgeable guides who know all there is about Vienna's history and culture. 

4. Visit Schonbrunn Palace - It's one of the most popular tourist attractions in Vienna and it's absolutely worth seeing! 

5. Visit the Schönbrunn Zoo - The zoo includes an aviary, a children's zoo, and an aquarium.

6. Check out the Naschmarkt - This is where you can buy fresh produce to cook at home or take home as a souvenir.

7. Explore the Prater Park - It has an amusement park with rides, a variety of attractions, catering and entertainment establishments.

Where To Stay When Visiting Vienna?

Vienna is a great destination for solo travelers. The city has a lot to offer, from museums to parks, from opera houses to palaces. If you are looking for an affordable hotel that is close to the city center and has an excellent location, then you should stay at Hotel Kastner . It’s located in Vienna’s first district and only five minutes away from the opera house or Hofburg Palace.

If you are looking for a more luxurious experience, then Hotel Imperial might be your best bet. It’s located right on the Ringstraße boulevard and has amazing views of Vienna’s skyline.

Vienna has something for everyone - If you are looking for an unforgettable solo travel experience in Vienna, then there is no better time to book than now with Solo Adventures .

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How to Solo Travel to Vienna

Last Updated: December 9, 2021 References

This article was co-authored by Angela Rice . Angela Rice is a Luxury Travel Specialist and Co-Founder of Boutique Travel Advisors, a luxury travel advising business in Phoenix, Arizona. Angela specializes in consulting and curating highly customized and unique travel itineraries for clients seeking luxury, group, and multi-generational family travel. Angela studied at Arizona State University and The University of Iowa Tippie College of Business. She has prior consulting experience in accounting and business, which helps her run her business behind the scenes. Angela has been featured in The Washington Post, Reader's Digest, Travel Weekly, USA Today, Travel Market Report, Phoenix Magazine, and MSN. She is also a frequent guest on WBBM News Radio 105.9 FM's Travel Tuesday show. There are 8 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been viewed 8,122 times.

Vienna is a great city to travel alone. With so much to do, it's hard to get bored even with a travel companion. If you go to Vienna alone, make sure you lay the basic groundworks for a safe, smooth trip. Stay in a hostel so you can meet other people and make sure you have emergency contact information on hand. See everything Vienna has to offer, such as palaces and museums. Try to make friends while you're there. Reach out to others through your hostel or local classes and meet ups.

Establishing the Basics

• If you do stay in a hostel, remember you will be sharing a room with others so basic security is important. You should invest in a small safe to keep expensive items, which can put under your bed or in a closet at the hostel.
• If you're uncomfortable with staying in a hostel, consider options like couch surfing. You can find hosts online through the couch surfing website.
• If you'd rather not stay with strangers, you can look into affordable options like AirBnBs, which you can also find online. You can always find people via other means, like taking classes in the city.

• If you buy a vacation pass for your trip, however, this includes passes for bus tours and a Hop On Hop Off bus pass. This can be purchased online, before you leave for Vienna.
• Opt for the option that makes the most sense for you. If you're only staying for two days, for example, see if they have a two day pass. If you're staying for a week, see if you can get a weeklong pass.

• Look for various walking tours online. Some walking tours are offered in package deals where you also gain things like access to various museums and tourist attractions. [5] X Research source
• Something like the Vienna Pass, for example, will give you walking tours of places like the Schönbrunn Palace, the state opera house, as well as a few combination bus and walking tours.

• Write down the most important things for you to see and then review transportation routes. See which attractions are in the same area and try to visit these attractions in the same day.
• Have a rough timeline. For example, you might hit the museums in the morning and then move on to the zoo in the afternoon.

Exploring the City

• There are also several large outdoor markets in Vienna where you can purchase things like fruits and vegetables, as well as meats and treats like ice cream. The biggest of these is Naschmarkt. Save your money eating out one day and fill up on food at the market. [9] X Research source

• To see many different types of museums at once, stop by the MuseumsQuartier. This is a complex that contains museums featuring contemporary art, as well as performance spaces.
• If you want to expose yourself to Vienna's art, stop by the Museum of Fine Art. It features art from a variety of eras and countries.

• Do not take pictures inside the palace. This is not allowed.

• Make sure to read up on the dress code if you do attend a show. The dress code is strictly enforced.

Socializing in Vienna

• There are many websites you can use to learn basic German phrases and terms you will need to help get around in Vienna. Try to commit some of these terms to memory prior to your trip. [15] X Research source
• You can also download translation phone apps, as well as phone apps that help you remember basic phrases.

• If you're on a walking tour that takes a break midday, it's a good idea to ask fellow tourists if they want to get lunch. Having lunch with people you meet on tours is a great way to make friends in the city.
• If there is a language barrier, see if you can find someone who speaks multiple languages to help translate. You can also try to learn a few phrases or terms in someone else's language or use gestures to communicate.

• MeetUp has groups for people with a wide array of interests, such as writing, movies, traveling, and so on.

• A popular choice is a cooking class. You will come home with a few new recipes in hand and also have the opportunity to make friends.

Expert Q&A

You might also like.

• ↑ http://theblondeabroad.com/2015/11/15/how-to-meet-people-as-a-solo-traveler/
• ↑ http://www.oneikathetraveller.com/9-tips-for-solo-travel-if-youre-a-girl.html
• ↑ http://www.whileimyoung.com/solo-weekend-in-vienna/
• ↑ Angela Rice. Travel Specialist. Expert Interview. 18 September 2020.
• ↑ http://www.techrepublic.com/blog/10-things/10-ways-for-women-to-stay-safe-when-traveling-alone/
• ↑ http://sologuides.com/vienna/
• ↑ http://gobackpacking.com/things-to-do-vienna/
• ↑ http://www.fluentu.com/german/blog/common-useful-german-travel-phrases-vocabulary-words/

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Solo Traveler

Solo travel tips, destinations, stories... the source for those who travel alone.

Solo Travel Destination: Vienna, Austria

November 28, 2014 by Tracey Nesbitt

We are pleased to present a new  Solo Travel  Destination Post from Vivi, a member of the  Solo Travel  Society  on Facebook . Vivi lives in Greece, and submitted the following report about Vienna . Do you have a solo  travel  destination that you would like to recommend?  Submit your description here , along with a few photos, and share it with fellow travelers!

Solo travel  rating:   1  (1 is easiest, 3 is most difficult. Please see chart below)

Languages spoken: German

The Vienna State Opera

Reasons to go to Vienna

Vienna is a beautiful central European city, full of historical monuments and rich culture.

You can visit Empress Elisabeth's palaces Hofburg and Schoenbrunn, or walk in the lovely gardens of Belvedere. There are performances daily at the Vienna State Opera (there is also a screen outside where you can watch the performance for free).

If you like museums, you will love the Museum Quartier. Take a ride on the Ferris Wheel in Prater Amusement Park, spend a day in the world's oldest zoo, Tiergarten Schönbrunn, or visit Mozarthaus Vienna, Mozart's one-time residence which is now a museum. Have a coffee and a piece of the famous Sacher Torte in one of the many old-fashioned cafes.

I recommend staying in the center, near Stephansplatz and moving around using the metro or tram.

Hofburg Palace

Strauss' statue in Stadtpark

The ferris wheel at Prater Amusement Park.

Solo Travel  Destination Rating System

Safety   – 1  (1 very safe, 2 safe in most areas, 3 be cautious at all times.)

Language   – 2  (1 English is first language, 2 English speakers easy to find, 3 English speakers rare)

Navigation – 1  (1 easy to navigate by transit or car, 2 poor transit, car necessary, 3 not easy to get around)

Culture – 1  (1 Similar to North America or Western Europe, 2 Different from above but relaxed and easy, 3 Challenging)

Average Rating – 1  (1 is easiest, 3 is most difficult)

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