interesting places to visit in vienna

27 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions & Things to Do in Vienna

Written by Bryan Dearsley Updated Dec 22, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Capital of the Republic of Austria and one of Europe's most visited cities, Vienna (Wien) owes much of its charm and rich history to its splendid location on the banks of the Danube River. For centuries the gateway between West and East Europe, it was the natural nucleus of the once sprawling Habsburg Empire, and to this day remains Austria's most important commercial and cultural hub.

Vienna continues to attract over 17 million visitors each year with its many great historical sightseeing opportunities, its fabled collections of art, glittering palaces, and exceptional musical heritage. This appreciation of the nation's rich culture is still very evident in Vienna's magnificent museums, its fine concert halls, and one of the world's great opera houses.

With an unmistakably cosmopolitan atmosphere, Vienna retains a distinctive charm and flair. This is very much accentuated by its fine old architecture; its famous horse-cabs, known as Fiakers; as well as its splendid coffeehouses with their famous Viennese cakes and pastries.

Whether you're looking for great places to visit in Vienna for a single day, or multiple things to do over several days, you'll have plenty of choices in this elegant city. If time permits, consider taking some day trips to explore the beautiful surroundings and nearby cities . And be sure to refer often to our exhaustive list of the top tourist attractions and things to do in Vienna, Austria.

1. Explore Imperial Schönbrunn Palace and Gardens

2. visit the historic hofburg, 3. kunsthistorisches museum and maria-theresien-platz, 4. a baroque masterpiece: belvedere palace, 5. take the kids to vienna zoo (tiergarten schönbrunn), 6. get your art fix at the albertina museum & albertina modern, 7. the vienna state opera house, 8. see st. stephen's cathedral, 9. see the dinosaur relics at the museum of natural history (naturhistorisches museum), 10. vienna city hall (rathaus) in the historic city center, 11. visit the prater and ride the giant ferris wheel, 12. take in a performance at the spanish riding school, 13. see the royal burial vaults in the imperial crypt and the capuchin church, 14. visit the leopold museum & vienna's museum quarter, 15. st. peter's catholic church (peterskirche), 16. dine like royalty at the famous demel: vienna's ultimate café, 17. st. charles church (karlskirche), 18. see the city views from the danube tower (donauturm), 19. walk by the colorful homes of hundertwasserhaus, 20. take a stroll on donauinsel (danube island), 21. learn about the austrian parliament building, 22. kärntner strasse and the donner fountain, 23. take in a show at the burgtheater: austria's national theater, 24. museum of military history, 25. the franciscan church: st. jerome, 26. jewish museum & judenplatz holocaust memorial, 27. sigmund freud museum, where to stay in vienna for sightseeing, map of tourist attractions & things to do in vienna, vienna, austria - climate chart.

The spectacular 18th-century Schönbrunn Palace (Schloss Schönbrunn) is worth visiting not only for its magnificent architecture, but also for its beautiful park-like setting. One of Vienna's top tourist attractions, this beautiful Baroque palace contains more than 1,441 rooms and apartments, including those once used by Empress Maria Theresa.

Tour highlights include a chance to see the Imperial Apartments, including Emperor Franz Joseph's Walnut Room and his Bedroom, which still has the small soldier's bed in which he died. Of Empress Maria Theresa's rooms, highlights include her richly furnished and decorated garden apartments, along with her Breakfast Room with its floral artwork created by her daughters.

Schönbrunn Park and Gardens is another must-see here. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site , the park, with its sweeping vistas and sumptuous Baroque gardens, is one of several top free things to do in Vienna (although you will have to pay to enter the maze and some of the adjoining buildings, such as the 1883 Palm House). If traveling with kids, visit the Children's Museum for a chance to see them dressed up as a prince or princess.

A good way to get to the palace and avoid the wait at the entrance is on a Skip the line: Guided tour of Schönbrunn Palace and Vienna Historical City Tour . These popular tours begin with a handy pickup from your central hotel or the Opera House. After a narrated drive along the famed Ringstrasse, past major attractions like the Hofburg Palace, City Hall, and the Vienna State Opera, you'll tour Schönbrunn Palace without having to wait in line. The tour continues to Belvedere Palace, where you can see Gustav Klimt's The Kiss and other famous Austrian art with a discounted admission.

Address: Schönbrunner Schloßstraße 47, 1130 Vienna, Austria

• Read More: Visiting Vienna's Schönbrunn Palace: Highlights, Tips & Tours

For more than six centuries the seat of the Habsburgs – and the official residence of every Austrian ruler since 1275 – the Hofburg is perhaps the most historically significant of Vienna's palaces. The official seat of the Austrian President, this sprawling complex consists of numerous buildings reflecting various periods, including architectural flourishes from the Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque, and Rococo movements.

All told, this vast complex covers 59 acres with 18 groups of buildings, including 19 courtyards and 2,600 rooms. Its main attractions are the Imperial Apartments , the Sisi Museum , and the Silver Collection , while other notable sites within the complex include the Imperial Chapel (Burgkapelle) and the Hofburg Treasury with its large collection of Imperial regalia and relics of the Holy Roman Empire. Informative guided tours are available in English.

You can stop at the Hofburg and the city's other important tourist attractions on the Vienna Big Bus Hop-on Hop-off Tour . This is by far the best option for first-time visitors who want to see the major sites and get acquainted with Vienna. One-, two-, or three-day options are available.

Address: Michaelerkuppel, 1010 Vienna, Austria

• Read More: Exploring Vienna's Imperial Hofburg Palace: A Visitor's Guide

Vienna's Kunsthistorisches Museum (Kunsthistorisches Museum Wien) is housed in a magnificent building created expressly to show off the tremendous art collections of the Hapsburg royal family. The superb collection of Dutch art features the world's largest collection of works by Pieter Bruegel the Elder, including his masterpiece Tower of Babel .

There are also paintings by Raphael, Titian, Bellini, Caravaggio, and Vermeer, plus portraits by Velazquez. While the museum's specialties are late Italian Renaissance, Baroque, and Flemish painting, the collections go far beyond those with classical Greek and Roman art and Egyptian artifacts.

English language guided tours are available and can be tailored to your specific interests. The museum's café is also worth a visit, especially for its atrium setting and tall, elegantly decorated walls and ceiling.

The museum overlooks Maria-Theresien-Platz, the focal point of which is the grand monument to Empress Maria Theresa. The statue was commissioned by Franz Joseph I and was unveiled in 1887. This massive monument depicts the Empress on her throne while surrounded by major personages of her day, including a number of generals on horseback. The high reliefs depict illustrious figures from the fields of politics; economics; and the arts, including Haydn, Gluck, and Mozart.

If you're able to squeeze in a little more gallery hopping, head over to the Museum of Applied Arts (Museum für angewandte Kunst), or MAK. This superb museum features traditional Austrian crafts and arts along with contemporary art, design, and architecture.

Address: Maria-Theresien-Platz, 1010 Vienna, Austria

Official site: www.khm.at/en/

Among Vienna's most popular attractions, Belvedere Palace is really two splendid Baroque buildings: the Lower (Unteres) Belvedere and the Upper (Oberes) Belvedere. Highlights of the Upper Palace include the Ground Floor Hall with its statues, and the Ceremonial Staircase with its rich stucco relief and frescoes.

Also worth seeing is the Marble Hall. This stunning two-story hall features numerous period sculptures, paintings, and ceiling frescoes. The Lower Palace also boasts a Marble Hall, this one noted for its oval plaster medallions and rich ceiling fresco, as well as a Marble Gallery built to house a collection of historic statues.

Other must-see buildings include the Winter Palace, a Baroque building that once housed the Court Treasury; the Orangery; the Palace Stables, home to the Medieval Treasury; and the Belvedere Gardens and Fountains linking the two palaces.

If there's time left in your Belvedere itinerary, be sure to include the Österreichische Galerie Belvedere. This popular art museum in the Belvedere Palace is well known for its extensive collections, including a rich array of sculptures and panel paintings from the 12th to the 16th centuries. But it is perhaps best known for Austrian Symbolist artist Gustav Klimt's The Kiss , a masterpiece of early modern art.

Address: Prinz Eugen Strasse 27, A-1037 Vienna, Austria

• Read More: Exploring Vienna's Belvedere Palace: A Visitor's Guide

The origins of the Vienna Zoo – also known as Schönbrunn Zoo (Tiergarten Schönbrunn) – can be traced to Emperor Francis I's menagerie. Founded in 1752 it's the oldest continually operating zoo in the world. With many of its original Baroque buildings still intact, it's one of the most pleasant zoos in Europe to visit, particularly if you spend a little time seeking refreshment in the original 18th-century Imperial Breakfast Pavilion that now houses a great café.

A highlight of the zoo's more than 750 species are its giant pandas, including cubs, as well as the many fascinating creatures housed in the interactive Rainforest House and Aquarium. If you're traveling to Vienna with children, be sure to check the zoo's official website for details of feeding times, always a fun family experience. Also worth checking into is the availability of special themed and backstage guided tours.

If after visiting the zoo, you've still got time in your Vienna travel itinerary for more critters, check out Haus des Meeres , a large public aquarium situated in a WWII flak tower. Also worth seeing is the Butterfly House (Schmetterlinghaus), located next to the Opera house and a pleasant place to unwind after all that sightseeing.

Address: Maxingstraße 13b, 1130 Vienna, Austria

Official site: www.zoovienna.at/en/zoo-and-visitors/visitor-information/

All the great names in modern art are represented, often by multiple works, in the magnificent Albertina museum. Representative examples from all the various schools and movements are to be found here, including French impressionists, Vienna secessionists, the Russian avant-garde, the expressionists, and fauvists, represented by their greatest artists.

These include important works by the likes of Chagall, Picasso, Cezanne, Degas, Magritte, Vlaminck, Modigliani, Klimt, Munch, Kandinsky, Münter, Miró, Brach, and Ernst - all are here to compare and admire. All told, this must-visit Vienna attraction is home to over a million works of art plus in excess of 65,000 drawings.

Many of these masterpieces hang in a splendid 17th-century palace where the Habsburg archdukes lived for a century, and their sumptuous State Rooms have been restored to their original glory. In addition to these permanent displays, temporary exhibits are also available for viewing. English language guided tours are available, along with informative audioguides. If traveling with kids, be sure to look into one of the private children's tours, which can also include a fun workshop.

If there's time in your Vienna itinerary, be sure to add the brand new Albertina Modern to your list of must-sees. Located an easy 10 minutes' walk away on Karlsplatz, the Albertina's large collection of post WWII and contemporary art by Austrian and international artists is housed in this newly renovated neoclassical building.

Address: Albertinaplatz 1, 1010 Vienna, Austria

Official site: www.albertina.at/en

One of the world's largest and most splendid theaters, the Vienna State Opera House (Wiener Staatsoper) has hosted many of the world's most prominent composers, conductors, soloists, and dancers. Operatic and ballet performances are staged at least 300 times a year, fuelled by an obsession with music that goes as far back as 1625 when the first Viennese Court Opera was performed.

The current massive Opera House was built in 1869 and is notable for its French Early Renaissance style, while interior highlights include a grand staircase leading to the first floor, the Schwind Foyer (named after its paintings of famous opera scenes), and the exquisite Tea Room with its valuable tapestries.

Capable of accommodating an audience of 2,211 along with 110 musicians, the Opera House is also home to the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra. English language behind-the-scenes guided tours are available.

If music is your thing, you may also want to pay a visit to Wiener Musikverein , a concert hall that serves as home for the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra (tickets can be booked online in advance). And the House of Music (Haus der Musik) offers visitors a fascinating glimpse into sound and music through interactive displays and demonstrations.

Address: Opernring 2, 1010 Vienna, Austria

Official site: www.wiener-staatsoper.at/en/

Vienna's most important Gothic edifice and the cathedral church of the archbishopric since 1722, St. Stephen's Cathedral (Stephansdom) sits in the historic center of Vienna. The original 12th-century Romanesque church was replaced by a Late Romanesque one in the 13th century, the remains of which are the massive gate and the Heathen Towers (Heidentürme).

Next came reconstruction in the Gothic style in the 14th century, along with the addition of the choir and the chapels of St. Eligius, St. Tirna, and St. Catherine. The famous 137-meter high South Tower (Steffl) belongs to the 15th-century.

Improvements and further construction followed from the 17th to 19th centuries, and the whole structure was rebuilt after World War II. Highlights include climbing the 343 steps to the Steffl's Watch Room for the spectacular views, and the North Tower, home to the massive Pummerin Bell. For those not wanting to tackle the stairs, a fast lift takes visitors to a viewing platform.

Other features of note are the 14th-century catacombs and the Cathedral Treasure, containing many of the cathedral's most important artifacts. Interesting English language guided tours are available, including an unforgettable 1.5-hour evening tour that takes in the cathedral's superb city views.

Address: Stephansplatz 3, 1010 Vienna, Austria

Read More: Exploring St. Stephen's Cathedral, Vienna

Best known for its huge Dinosaur Hall and for the world's largest exhibit of meteorites (which includes the Tissint meteorite from Mars that fell in Morocco in 2011), Vienna's Natural History Museum (Naturhistorisches Museum Wien) is a fascinating place to visit. Its 39 exhibit halls trace such subjects as the origins and development of humans and the evolution of human culture from prehistoric times.

One of its rarest treasures is the so-called Venus of Willendorf, a pottery figurine dating from between about 28,000 and 25,000 BCE. The museum's newest feature is its Digital Planetarium with full dome projection. The building opened in 1889 and is itself a work of art, especially the magnificent ceiling painting above the main staircase.

A variety of fun workshops and guided tour options are available, and audioguides are provided upon request. The museum's latest addition, "Deck 50," features workshops and lectures, as well as fascinating "meet a scientist" sessions that provide a unique opportunity to ask questions of leading experts in a variety of disciplines.

Address: Burgring 7, 1010, Vienna, Austria

Official site: www.nhm-wien.ac.at/en

Located in the heart of historic Innere Stadt and overlooking Rathausplatz, Vienna's City Hall (Weiner Rathaus) is an impressive Neo-Gothic building that serves as the city's administrative center. Remarkable for its size, it occupies nearly 14,000 square meters of the former Parade Ground.

This attractive and much-photographed building was completed in 1883 and is notable for the famous Rathausmann on top of its 98-meter-high tower, a banner-carrying iron figure presented to the city as a gift from its master locksmith.

The arcaded courtyard in the center of the building is the largest of seven courtyards and is used for popular summer concerts. Highlights of a guided tour of the building include the Schmidt Halle, the large entrance into which carriages would once drive to deposit their passengers, and the two Grand Staircases leading to the Assembly Hall.

Other sights included in the tour are the Heraldic Rooms; the City Senate Chamber, notable for its coffered ceiling decorated with gold-leaf and its huge Art Nouveau candelabra; and the Mayor's reception room. Tours are free and are available Monday, Wednesday, and Friday at 1pm, and audioguides are also available.

Try to time your visit to coincide with one of the frequent festivals or events held in Rathausplatz. The old City Hall makes an extremely romantic backdrop for everything from colorful Christmas markets to summer music concerts.

Address: Friedrich-Schmidt-Platz 1, 1010 Vienna, Austria

Official site: www.wien.gv.at/english/cityhall/tours.htm

Visiting the Prater (Wiener Prater), a large natural park situated between the Danube and the Danube Canal, is a little like stepping into another world. Covering an area of 3,200 acres, this vast park - once a royal hunting ground - has long been one of Vienna's most popular recreation areas. There's something here for everyone, from thrills and spills in the Wurstel area, with its old-fashioned theme park rides, to dining and dancing, to the dinosaur-themed park for the kids.

A highlight for sightseers is taking a ride on the famous Giant Wheel (Wiener Riesenrad), a Viennese landmark that has provided fine views over the city since 1896. If you can afford it, go for the super luxurious cabin, suitable for parties of up to 12. Other park highlights include the Prater Ziehrer Monument , a larger-than-life statue of composer CM Ziehrer built in 1960; the Prater Museum with its displays documenting the park's history; a Planetarium ; and the Liliputbahn miniature steam railroad traversing a four-kilometer line near the main avenue.

Elsewhere in this vast park there's room enough for horseback riding, swimming in the stadium pool, football, cycling, tennis, and bowls. Also worth visiting is nearby Danube Park (Donaupark). This 250-acre open space is also home to a fun miniature railroad, an artificial lake (Lake Iris), and a theater. Visiting Prater park at night is also fun, and is highly recommended.

Address: 1020 Vienna, Austria

Official site: https://prater.at/en/park-information/

Dating back to the time of Emperor Maximilian II, the superb Spanish Riding School (Spanische Hofreitschule) was established after the ruler had the famous Lipizzaner horses introduced to his courtesans in 1562.

Today, it's one of Vienna's leading attractions, and one of the leading riding schools in the world, thrilling audiences with fabulous displays of equestrian skills in the Baroque Winter Riding School in the grounds of the Hofburg Palace, where it has been located since 1735. Tickets to these popular performances sell out quickly, so be sure to book as far in advance as possible.

If available, purchase a package that includes a behind-the-scenes tour and the chance to visit the stables, along with a morning training session. An on-site café ensures you can linger a little longer-you'll certainly want to.

Address: Michaelerplatz 1, 1010 Vienna, Austria

Official site: www.srs.at/en/

Dedicated to Our Lady of the Angels, Vienna's Capuchin Church (Kapuzinerkirche) is best known for its spectacular Imperial Vault (Kapuzinergruft). This stunning edifice is home to the Habsburg family vault containing the remains of 145 members of the family (almost all Austrian Emperors since 1633 are buried here).

The nine vaults are arranged in chronological order, making it easy to trace the evolution of taste, at least in burials. A highlight includes the Founder's Vault , the final resting place of Emperor Matthias who died in 1619, and Empress Anna, who died in 1618.

Also of interest is the Maria Theresa Vault , a domed chamber dominated by a double sarcophagus in the Rococo style and built for the Empress, who died in 1780. The sarcophagus takes the form of a bed of state, at the head of which is the Imperial couple with an angel and a crown of stars, while along the sides are numerous reliefs depicting scenes from Maria Theresa's life.

Address: Neuer Markt, 1010 Vienna, Austria

Official site: www.kapuzinergruft.com

Since opening in 2001, Vienna's Museum Quartier (Museumsquartier, or "MQ") has been home to a variety of first-rate museums that are well worth exploring. A mix of old and new architecture centered around an area that once served as the former royal stables, it's easy to spend the best part of a day (or two) here.

Must-visits include the famous Leopold Museum , noted for its large collection of works by Austria's leading modern artists, such as Gustav Klimt and Egon Schiele, and MUMOK , the Museum of Modern Art Ludwig Foundation Vienna, featuring more than 10,000 contemporary and modern pieces by renowned artists including Picasso and Warhol.

Another highlight of a visit to the Museum Quarter includes the popular summertime Vienna Festival (Wiener Festwochen). The event's main offices are located here, so it's a hub of activity once tickets become available, and many of the surrounding buildings are used as venues for a variety of cultural events and concerts. Also located here is the Tanzquartier , the country's leading dance center, along with artists' studios and galleries.

Address: Museumsplatz 1, 1070 Wien, Austria

Official site: www.mqw.at/en/

Modeled on St. Peter's in Rome, Peterskirche – the Collegial and Parish Church of St. Peter – is built on a site originally occupied by a Roman church and later by one founded by Charlemagne in 792 AD. The present edifice was built in the 18th century and boasts a massive dome with a superb fresco and many artistic treasures.

Other highlights include the Barbara Chapel with its magnificent portal, and in which Franz Karl Remp's Decollation of St. Barbara is found, and the choir with its High Altar and painting of the Immaculate Conception. The church is also noted for its frequent organ recitals.

Also of note is the nearby Plague Pillar , a 21-meter-tall Baroque pillar built to commemorate the end of the devastating plague of 1679 that cost at least 75,000 Viennese their lives. The nearby Abbey of the Scots (Schottenstift), built in the 12th century and extensively renovated and enlarged since, is also worth popping into. Its school included Johann Strauss and Austria's last emperor, Charles I, among its pupils, while its fine collection of artwork includes pieces from the 16th to 19th centuries.

Address: Petersplatz 1, 1010 Vienna, Austria

Official site: www.peterskirche.at

Founded in 1786, the famous Demel is not only the oldest café and bakery in Vienna, it's perhaps the most memorable food experience you'll have in this wonderful city. Officially known as Hofzuckerbäckerei Demel – shortened to "Demel" by those in the know – this exquisite café serves dishes and cakes carefully prepared by hand to traditional centuries-old recipes.

Some of these delicious treats were once used to satisfy the cravings of Emperor Franz Joseph who secretly had Demel cakes and pralines served during his tête-à-têtes with his lover. Apparently, his unhappy wife, Sisi, was addicted to their legendary violet sorbet.

A highlight of a visit is the Demelinerinnen, the modestly dressed waitresses wearing black dresses with lace collars who still address customers with the formal, " Haben schon gewählt ?" ("Has Madam/Sir already made her/his choice?").

The other highlight, of course, is drooling over the mouthwatering displays of cakes and pastries, including special creations resembling characters or creatures from history and mythology, each a work of art. Reservations can be made in advance online, and are recommended.

Address: Kohlmarkt 14, 1010 Vienna, Austria

Dedicated to St. Charles Borromeo, a saint invoked during times of plague, St. Charles Church (Karlskirche) was built in 1737 and remains Vienna's most important Baroque religious building. This vast building is crowned by a magnificent 72-meter dome and is famous for its twin 33-meter Triumphal Pillars, based on Trajan's Column in Rome, with their spiraling bands depicting scenes from the life of St. Charles.

Interior highlights include the fabulous frescoes of St. Cecilia. Be sure to check the church's official website for details of its regular concert program.

Also worth visiting is the Gardekirche , built in 1763 in the city's southern outer district as the church of the Imperial Hospital and later serving Polish congregations. Of particular interest is the painting above the High Altar.

Address: Kreuzherrengasse 1, Vienna, Austria

Few European capital cities in the 50s and 60s were left without that definitive mid-20th-century landmark, the telecommunications tower, and Vienna is certainly no exception. Standing taller than any other building in the city and in fact the tallest structure in Austria, the 252-meter-tall Danube Tower, the Donauturm, opened to great fanfare in 1964 and continues to attract visitors for its spectacular view over the Danube River.

Highlights of a visit include the speedy elevator ride to the observation deck at 150 meters, from which you can also pick out many of Vienna's most important attractions. The other big draw here actually combines two of a traveler's favorite things to do: enjoying incredible views and partaking in world-class dining experiences.

The Danube Tower is in fact home to two restaurants, one fine dining and the other a casual café-style establishment.

Address: Donauturmstraße 8, 1220 Wien, Austria

Official site: https://www.donauturm.at/en/

Famous as Vienna's "nature and human-friendly" apartment block, the decidedly odd (yet fascinating) Hundertwasserhaus is well worth a visit. Designed by painter Friedensreich Hundertwasser, this brightly colored landmark on the corner of Löwengasse and Kegelstrasse was completed in 1985, and the occupants of its 53 units-perhaps unsurprisingly-consist mostly of artists, intellectuals, and creative types, much like the architect himself.

Although the brightly colored building can only be enjoyed from the outside, you can explore the nearby Kunsthaus Wien, a complex of apartments containing a terrace café where you can rest while soaking up the ambience. Afterwards, pop over to the similarly styled shopping arcade.

Address: Kegelgasse 36-38, 1030 Vienna, Austria

Official site: www.hundertwasser-haus.info/en/

If you took the time to enjoy the views from the Danube Tower, you'll have noticed that the city appears to have not just one, but two rivers running through it. No, you're not seeing double. In fact, what you're seeing is the Danube River (the wider of the two) and, running parallel to it, a canal known as the Donaukanal, or "new Danube." Separating them is a long stretch of land known as Danube Island (Donauinsel), and a sightseeing opportunity you won't want to miss.

Although only 210 meters wide at its widest point, the island is over 21 kilometers in length and is a popular spot to walk and relax for locals. Easily accessible via water taxi or bridge, the island is dotted with interesting dining opportunities (both casual and upscale), and is particularly pleasant for those wanting a quiet stroll along the Danube.

Sports enthusiasts are also drawn here, partaking in activities as diverse as biking and rollerblading, along with canoeing, kayaking, and swimming at one of the many beaches . Danube Island is also the scene of the annual Donauinselfest , Europe's biggest open-air festival, and one so popular an estimated three million visitors drop in to enjoy it each September.

Home of Austria's National and Federal Parliament since 1918, the Parliament Building impresses with its vast dimensions. Completed in 1883 for use by the Imperial and Provincial delegations, it boasts many Greek influences, from its Corinthian columns to its rich decoration. Of particular note are the exterior carvings depicting the granting of the Constitution by Franz Joseph I to the 17 peoples of Austria, along with numerous marble statues and reliefs.

Another highlight is the splendid Pallas Athene Fountain with its four-meter-high statue adorned with a gilded helmet and lance, along with figures symbolizing the Rivers Danube, Inn, Elbe, and Moldau.

English language guided tours are available from the Visitor Center where you can also enjoy displays and multimedia presentations about the history of the building and Parliament itself. (Editor's Note: Please be aware that there may be some restrictions regarding tour access due to ongoing renovations.)

Address: Dr.-Karl-Renner-Ring 3, 1017 Vienna, Austria

Official site: www.parlament.gv.at/ENGL/

Looking to do a little window shopping after all that museum and gallery hopping? Then head to Vienna's most elegant street, Kärntner Strasse. Linking Stephansplatz to the Staatsoper on the Ring and ending at Karlsplatz, this (mostly) pedestrian-friendly area is fun to wander thanks to its lime trees, pavement cafés, fashionable shops, elegant boutiques, and busy shopping arcades.

Although most of the buildings you see today are 18th-century, the Maltese Church still has a few features dating from the 13th-century when the street served as an important trade route (take a peek inside for its coats of arms of the Knights of Malta).

Other notable buildings are Palais Esterházy , built in 1698 and now home to an upscale restaurant, while nearby buildings house high-end clothing stores. Also of note is the exquisite Donner Fountain , built in 1739 by Georg Raphael Donner to reflect the 'caring and wise' city government; it was, of course, commissioned by those who ran Vienna at the time.

The Burgtheater, Vienna's superb National Theater, has long been famous for its productions of German-language plays and performances. Many famous names have acted on its four stages since its founding by Emperor Joseph II in 1776 as the Court Theater. After devastation by bombing and fire in 1945, the theater eventually reopened in 1955 and has since grown in stature as the country's most important theater.

In addition to its size and the caliber of its performances, the building's exterior is impressive on account of its numerous decorative figures, scenes, and busts. Equally as impressive is its interior consisting of rich decoration in the French Baroque style, and a staircase with frescoes by Gustav and Ernst Klimt. Behind the scenes, guided tours are available in English and are well worth the cost.

Address: Universitätsring 2, 1010 Vienna, Austria

Whether you're a military history buff or are simply interested in learning more about Austria's place in the history of European conflict and warfare, be sure to schedule a visit to The Museum of Military History: Military History Institute (Heeresgeschichtliches Museum - Militärhistorisches Institut).

This remarkable collection is all too often overlooked, but those who do venture here are rewarded by the chance to peruse an immense collection of weaponry and exhibits detailing events in which the Austrian military was involved from the 1600s up to the 1950s. Along the way, you'll see weaponry, from muskets to machine guns, cannons to tanks, as well as vintage aircraft. Add to this interesting dioramas and models, along with uniforms and medals, and you'll want to stay right through until closing.

And be sure to spend time enjoying the splendid architecture, too. The museum is located in the city's sprawling Arsenal, and in places, the lavish interior-such as in the memorial hall-rivals that of any of the city's palaces. English language guided tours are available and come highly recommended.

Address: Arsenal 1, 1030 Vienna, Austria

Official site: www.hgm.at/en

The early 17th-century Roman Catholic Franciscan Church (Franziskanerkirche), also known as the Church of St. Jerome, is unique in Vienna for having a Renaissance façade, while its delightful interior is decorated in Baroque style. Highlights include the High Altar from 1707 and a painting of the Madonna and Child from 1550. Other paintings are the Martyrdom of St. Capristan and one of the church's patron saint.

Also of interest is the carved Baroque organ from 1643, the oldest organ in Vienna, notable for its folding doors with their fine carved and painted saints. The church's most famous artifact, however, is a carved image known as the Madonna with the Axe , known for having been carried by Austrian soldiers during their campaign against the Turks in Hungary, and credited for their victory.

Address: Franziskanerplatz 4, 1010 Vienna, Austria

Established to both celebrate and commemorate Vienna's Jewish population, The Jewish Museum (Jüdisches Museum Wien) does a stellar job of both. Established in 1986 and spread across two locations in the city-in Judenplatz and Dorotheergasse-the museum features displays and exhibits relating to the history of Jewish culture and religion in Austria over the centuries.

The Dorotheergasse location consists of the main collection, housed in Palais Eskeles, including artifacts and memorabilia relating to Jewish life in the post-WWiI period. A café and bookshop are also located here.

The Jewish Museum Vienna at Judenplatz houses displays relating to the social, cultural, and religious lives of the city's Jewish population. Highlights include a chance to visit an authentic medieval Jewish synagogue, along with art and photography collections. Afterwards, be sure to spend time in Judenplatz itself and visit the Holocaust Memorial located in the heart of the square.

Address: Dorotheergasse 11, 1010 Vienna, Austria

Official site: www.jmw.at/en

Established in 1971, the Sigmund Freud Museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the life of one of the most remarkable thinkers of modern times. Located in Freud's former home (it was built in 1891, the year he moved in, and was his home for 47 years), the museum features rooms and exhibits relating to the history of psychoanalysis, including its influence on art and society as a whole.

Many of Freud's original writings are housed in the museum's research library, considered one of the most important such facilities in the world. In addition to personal artifacts from his life, along with his collection of antiques, an impressive modern art collection is housed on the property, too.

Address: Berggasse 13, 1090 Vienna, Austria

Official site: www.freud-museum.at/en/

The Ringstrasse circles Vienna's old city center, replacing the walls that once enclosed it. Most of the city's major attractions are inside or along this ring, with major museums surrounding the buildings of the former Habsburg Palace, the Hofburg. As you might expect, most hotels in this compact center are in the luxury range. Budget hotels are found farther outside the ring or in the attractive neighborhood around Schönbrunn Palace and the zoo.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Things to Do near Vienna : A delightful two-hour road trip from Vienna, Graz is Austria's second biggest city and is popular for its many well-preserved Baroque buildings, especially those located in the Old Town area. Two hours west, and you're in lovely Linz . Also on the magnificent River Danube and once home to such luminaries as Wolfgang Mozart, Linz boasts numerous great museums and art galleries. For more ideas of great day trips from Vienna , be sure to check out our list of the top excursions to destinations such as the Wachau Valley and Melk Abbey.

Head for the Hills : Widely regarded as one of Europe's most attractive cities, Salzburg sits under the shadow of the 1,853-meter-tall Untersberg, adding a distinctive character to the city's old medieval city center. Innsbruck is another city that's beauty is enhanced by its mountain scenery, and is a special favorite of those who enjoy superlative skiing. Also popular with ski enthusiasts, the dramatic scenery of Kitzbühel is the perfect backdrop for hiking and biking adventures in summer.

Austria Vacation Ideas : The lovely shoreline of the Hallstätter Sea is where you'll find the pretty town of Hallstatt , one of the loveliest destinations in Austria and one that offers a variety of great vacation experiences. The medieval town of Klagenfurt is another great option and is famous for its charming Old Town center with its many galleries, shops, and cafés (and be sure to wander along its old canals, too). Exploring the sites of Bregenz is another good option, and is especially popular for sightseeing due to its location on the shores of Lake Constance.

More on Austria

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The 18 best things to do in Vienna

Vienna may trade on its imperial past but scratch the surface and you’ll find there’s a lot more here than first meets the eye

Vienna is one of those cities which simply does it all. Known worldwide for its Kaffeehaus culture (you’ll find the best cafés in Europe here, in our humble opinion), the vibe might be chill AF, but trust us, the Austrians know how to have fun. 

Here you’ll find unforgettable  museums , attractions and historical buildings, and food markets and world-leading restaurants to sample local delights afterwards. As the afternoon progresses into evening, check out one of Vienna ’s fabulous rooftop bars  or breweries to start off your night right. Whatever you’re here for, Vienna’s got it. Here are its best things to do right now. 

RECOMMENDED: 🍽️ The best restaurants in Vienna  💃🏻 The best nightlife spots in Vienna 🏛️ The best attractions in Vienna 🏠 The best Airbnbs in Vienna

Natalie Marchant is a writer from Vienna. At Time Out , all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines .  This guide includes affiliate links, which have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our  affiliate guidelines . 

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Best things to do in Vienna

1.  Gaze at Klimt’s famous painting ‘The Kiss’

What is it?  ‘The Kiss’ is the final painting of Gustav Klimt’s Golden Period and forms the centrepiece of the world’s most significant collection of the artist’s works, housed in Vienna’s beautiful 300-year-old Upper Belvedere Palace. Depicting two lovers locked in an embrace in a meadow of flowers, it stands out thanks to Klimt’s use of gold leaf and a background suffused with gold, silver and platinum flakes. Some think it is representative of the artist himself with lifelong partner Emilie Flöge. 

Why go?  One of the world’s most instantly recognisable paintings, ‘The Kiss’ marked a significant watering down of the erotic intensity Klimt’s earlier works had been criticised for. Thousands flock here each year to see this revolutionary work. Make sure you also admire some of the other art on show and take a stroll through the gardens of the Baroque palace complex.

2.  Walk the Ringstrasse

What is it?  Wrapped around Vienna’s historic city centre, the Ringstrasse – or the Ring as it’s more commonly known – is the result of a Habsburg-era initiative that sought to connect the suburbs to the imperial centre. Work began on the grand boulevard with a decree by Franz Joseph I in 1857, and today it still serves as the main orientational aid for any Vienna visitor.

Why go?  Built to show off the best of the Habsburg empire, a stroll around the Ring is the easiest way to admire some of the city’s grandest buildings. Travelling the relatively short distance between Karlsplatz and Schottentor alone allows you to take in the State Opera House, the Burggarten, the Hofburg, the National Library, the Art History, Natural History and World museums, Parliament, the Volksgarten, the Burgtheater, the Town Hall and the University. Phew.

3.  Explore the MuseumsQuartier

What is it? The MuseumsQuartier Wien , or MQ as it’s more commonly known, offers everything from the world’s finest Egon Schiele collection to an array of trendy bars, cafés and restaurants to a sculpture park-slash-mini golf course . The MQ Libelle rooftop terrace provides some of the finest views of the city centre. 

Why go? The Leopold Museum , home to 42 Schiele paintings and various works by Gustav Klimt, Oskar Kokoschka and members of the Wien Werkstätte movement, is one of Vienna’s finest art museums, while the MUMOK boasts the city’s premier contemporary art collection, including works by Andy Warhol and Roy Lichtenstein. Even if art’s not your thing, it’s worth heading to the courtyard to hang out with locals on one of the eye-catching geometric blocks or enjoy one of the outdoor cafés.

4.  Check out the Sigmund Freud Museum

What is it? Sigmund Freud, the founder of psychoanalysis, lived and worked at Berggasse 19 until 1938 when the Nazis’ persecution of the city’s Jews forced him and his family to flee to England. Having undergone a significant expansion and renovation, you can now visit all of the family’s private rooms and both Sigmund and Anna Freud’s practices, alongside exhibitions on the family’s life, psychoanalysis and the history of the building itself. 

Why go? As well as being a fascinating window into life during Vienna’s intellectual golden age, and its subsequent downfall, the Sigmund Freud Museum hosts events and has a tremendous gift shop.

5.  Try Vienna’s signature cake

What is it? Vienna’s signature cake the Sachertorte, a luxurious combo of dense chocolate sponge, dark chocolate ganache and finely-spread apricot jam, traditionally served with unsweetened whipped cream, is more than just a dessert – its recipe is a closely guarded secret. Sure, you’ll find versions of this sweet treat in cafés across the city, but there’s a fierce rivalry between the  Hotel Sacher  and  Demel  over claims to the original recipe. They’ve even gone to court over it…

Why go?  Which Sachertorte is best? There’s only one way to find out – and that’s by sampling both. Let the cake wars commence.

6.  Stroll through Hofburg Palace

What is it? Back in the days of the Austro-Hungarian empire, the ornate Hofburg Palace was its beating heart. Today it’s the official residence of the country’s president and is home to many of Vienna’s top museums, attractions and galleries (and some famous dancing horses, too).

Why go? A walk through the Hofburg offers a potted history of Austria itself. See the Roman ruins, learn all about the life and macabre death of Empress Elisabeth – the ‘Princess Diana’ of the Habsburg Empire who was recently immortalised in Netflix drama ‘The Empress’ – at the Sisi Museum, admire the Baroque splendour of the newly-refurbished Prunksaal (State Hall) at the Austrian National Library and see where Adolf Hitler held his Anschluss speech. Head to the Spanish Riding School to watch the Lipizzaner horses perform their nifty dressage work.

7.  Hang out in the Neubau district

What is it? This used to be Vienna’s edgiest up-and-coming neighbourhood, but now it’s settled into a comfortable kind of cool – think London’s Clerkenwell crossed with the best bits of Berlin. The rents are still reasonable here in the 7th district, which means it’s home to several one-of-a-kind boutiques, bars and restaurants.

Why go? Well, the food’s fantastic, for starters. There’s Erich , a subterranean taqueria with one of the city’s best drinks lists and its sister restaurant Ulrich , which does a banging brunch. Meanwhile, TIAN Bistro am Spittalberg is one of the city’s foremost vegetarian and vegan establishments. If you fancy a cocktail, pop up the road to Moby Dick , which prides itself on innovative cocktails and food pairings.

8.  Take in the view from Vienna’s rooftop bars

What is it? Vienna has seen something of a boom in rooftop bars and terraces in recent years, catering for a wide range of budgets, tastes and views. From the brightly-coloured and opulent interiors of Das LOFT to the al fresco panoramas from the top of a WWII flak tower of 360º OCEAN SKY at Haus des Meeres, there really is a view for everyone. 

Why go? Visitors to Vienna have long been told to always look up to admire the architecture, but the influx of rooftop venues has flipped that on its head. Nowhere is this more true than at the Lamée Rooftop bar where you gaze side-on at the Stephansdom cathedral’s single tower, which feels so close you can nearly touch it. If you fancy something a little more relaxed, the living room-like interior of the Dachboden bar of the 25hours Hotel may be more your thing. 

9.  Mooch around the Albertina Modern

What is it? The Albertina Modern – an offshoot of the long-established Albertina museum – is Vienna’s newest major art museum and holds two of the most important collections of post-1945 Austrian art, the Essl and Jablonka collections, alongside works by other famous international artists. 

Why go? Counting more than 60,000 works by over 5,000 artists on its books, the Albertina Modern is committed to presenting Austrian art on equal footing with works by important international artists such as Andy Warhol. Since its opening in the historic Künstlerhaus in 2020, it has exhibited works by renowned artists such as Egon Schiele, Ai Weiwei and Jackson Pollock. 

10.  Dine in the world’s grandest greenhouse

What is it? Beautifully located in the pretty Burggarten park by the Hofburg, the Palmenhaus might be the world’s grandest greenhouse. Home to towering tropical trees and plants from around the world, the Palmenhaus doubles as a restaurant and bar, serving modern Austrian specialties with locally-sourced ingredients, as well as lighter bites and cocktails. If nothing else, be sure to try the cheeseboard with a glass of local wine. 

Why go? It’s super-central, so wherever you’re staying, this is a fabulous spot for a memorable first-night dinner or drinks. Plus, it’s sehr photogenic both inside and out, and a great place for people-watching.

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20 Best Things to Do in Vienna, Austria, From Palace Strolls to Sachertorte

Here's how locals recommend exploring the capital city.

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Vienna (or “Wien” in German) is a must-visit city for many travelers, whether you’re visiting Europe for the first time or returning for a new adventure. The capital of Austria is a rich cultural hub, boasting museums, Baroque architecture, and a legacy closely tied to classical music — hence its nickname, the City of Music. Vienna is also the birthplace of Wiener schnitzel, and it continues to hold the title of “most livable city,” as determined by the Economist Intelligence Unit’s Global Liveability Index .

Tina Haselbacher, the owner of Almanac Hotels — which opened Almanac Palais Vienna in March 2023 — describes Vienna as “a place where tradition meets the contemporary.” While the city is, in many ways, visually defined by its historic structures, Haselbacher explains that there are “interesting and contemporary concepts living behind these traditional facades, such as modern art, cutting-edge culinary innovations, and interactive experiences with today’s creators.”

To discover both sides of Vienna, you’ll want to fill your itinerary with a combination of the old and the new — a stop by the Hofburg Palace followed by an afternoon exploring the Kunsthalle Wien in the Museumsquartier, for example. Read on to discover the best things to do when visiting Vienna, according to locals. 

Visit the famed Schönbrunn Palace.

Alisha McDarris/Travel + Leisure

According to Julija and Wolfgang Rigon of Good Vienna Tours , you “can't visit Vienna without [seeing] Schönbrunn.” The summer residence of the Habsburgs, Schönbrunn Palace is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city. While you’ll inevitably experience lines, particularly if you’re there during the weekend, there’s still plenty to do while you wait. “You get [your ticket] relatively quickly and see what time you are allowed into the castle. While you're waiting, you can grab a bite to eat or visit the gardens,” says the couple.

Enjoy a slow morning at a coffee house.

Mathias Kniepeiss/Getty Images

“Viennese coffee house culture is an integral part of the Viennese lifestyle, so much so that UNESCO placed it on its intangible cultural heritage list ,” says Michael Gigl, head of market USA for the Austrian Tourist Office . Don’t expect a fast-paced, Starbucks-like morning, though. “The true secret to the Vienna coffee house experience is the lack of time pressure. No one will bat an eye if you decide to read every single newspaper and magazine on hand," he says. "Opening a laptop, however, is rather frowned upon.” Gigl’s coffee house recommendations include Café Sperl , Café Hawelka , Café Korb , Café Ritter , and Café Schwarzenberg .

Stop by St. Stephen's Cathedral.

Viktor/Getty Images

At its tallest point, St. Stephen’s Cathedral reaches 136 meters, making it the tallest church in Austria and one of the most recognizable sights in Vienna. Visiting the main entrance is free, but you’ll need to purchase a ticket to see the cathedral in its entirety. “The view from the top, whether by foot or by elevator, is highly recommended in good weather,” says Wolfgang Rigon.

Snap a photo of the Majolikahaus (Majolica House).

BrendanHunter/Getty Images

“Otto Wagner’s Majolikahaus is a Viennese Art Nouveau-styled building famous for its colorful tiles with a floral motif," says Haselbacher. "It is such a special place to see an icon of the Art Nouveau style." Designed by the Austrian architect in 1898 and 1899, Majolikahaus can be found at Linke Wienzeile 40 in the Laimgrube neighborhood. 

Fill up on Wiener schnitzel.

bhofack2/Getty Images

“Without having eaten [Wiener schnitzel] in its hometown, you have not been to Vienna,” says Julija Rigon. Made of thinly pounded veal, dipped in flour, egg, and breadcrumbs, and fried until golden brown, Wiener schnitzel is said to have been introduced in Vienna in the 1850s. It’s not hard to find the dish here; a few restaurant options include Schnitzelwirt , Skopik & Lohn , and Salzamt .

Take a dip in the Krapfenwaldlbad swimming pool.

If you grow tired of walking around Vienna and find yourself in need of a refreshing swim, make your way out of the city center. “ Krapfenwaldlbad is an outdoor swimming area in the woods of Vienna, overlooking the entire city," says Haselbacher. "Head there in the summertime to cool off and mix with locals and families."

Attend a performance at the Vienna State Opera.

Ursula Schmitz/Travel + Leisure

“About 10,000 people enjoy a classical music performance somewhere in the city every day, so go grab a ticket to the opera or a concert performance,” says Gigl. The Vienna State Opera House features 350 performances each season — both operas and ballets — and tickets can be purchased online . To learn more about Vienna’s musical history and tradition, Gigl suggests visiting the Haus der Musik (House of Music) “for an engaging interactive experience.”

Get an insider’s view of the city via a walking tour.

kolderal/Getty Images

Unless someone in your party already has a solid understanding of the city — including its layout, history, and lesser-known facts — a walking tour is a great way to get your bearings. Good Vienna Tours offers tours in English every day at 10 a.m. and again at 2 p.m.

Learn about Vienna’s past and present at the Jewish Museum.

Courtesy of the Jewish Museum Vienna

With an emphasis on the time period encompassing the two World Wars, this museum educates visitors on Jewish history, culture, and religion. Though it is split into two locations, a single ticket grants you access to both Museum Dorotheergasse and Museum Judenplatz . The latter is home to the Judenplatz Holocaust Memorial, a memorial designed by Rachel Whiteread that honors the Austrian victims of the Holocaust.

Indulge in a slice of Sachertorte.

tupungato/Getty Images

Sachertorte, which Gigl calls “the world’s most storied cake," should be on your must-try list while in Vienna. Invented in 1832 by pastry chef Franz Sacher, Sachertorte is a rich chocolate sponge cake made with layers of apricot jam and a chocolate ganache topping. Café Demel and Café Sacher have had a rivalry over the treat for centuries, so you may need to try both and see which one you prefer.

Relax in Vienna’s green spaces.

Creativemarc/Getty Images

“One of the reasons Vienna is consistently named as one, if not the, best place to live, is the city’s abundance of green spaces, parks, and recreational opportunities,” says Gigl. “Try the Prater for a leisurely stroll, or head to the ‘Alte Donau’ (Old Danube) for a swim or a paddleboard session,” says Gigl.

Explore the art collection at the Belvedere Museum.

Deanna Mazzola/Travel + Leisure

There’s a high chance art aficionados will already be familiar with the Belvedere Museum , which the Rigons describe as a “beautiful Baroque palace with an even more impressive garden.” Haselbacher adds, “They have the biggest collection of [Gustav] Klimt, and the architecture is really special." The Klimt collection includes his most famous piece, “The Kiss.”

Eat lunch at a würstelstand.

Lauren Breedlove/Travel + Leisure

A würstelstand is a traditional Austrian street food outlet that serves sausage, hot dogs, and beer, among other delicacies. You’ll find them all over Vienna, but Würstelstand LEO is said to be the city’s oldest sausage stand. If you aren’t adverse to dairy, order the Käsekrainer, which is a sausage filled with small chunks of cheese.

Walk along the Ringstraße.

In 1857, Emperor Franz Joseph ordered the construction of a boulevard built around Vienna’s city center. Down came the historic city walls, and the Ringstraße (or Vienna Ring Road) took its place, although it took a few decades to complete. “The State Opera, the Hofburg, the Museum of Fine Arts, the Museum of Natural History, the Burgtheater, the City Hall, and the Parliament are just a few sights on Ringstraße,” says Wolfgang Rigon. He suggests walking the 5.2km (about 3.2 miles) route or taking a streetcar.

Shop in Vienna’s two remaining street markets.

Ursula Schmitz/Travel + Leisrue

Hasselbacher notes that if you make your way to Währing, the 18th district, you’ll find Kutschkermarkt, one of “the last remaining street markets in Vienna.” The other street market, Brunnenmarkt , is in Ottakring, the 16th district. Both offer a variety of produce, meats, breads, spices, flowers, and more. On Saturdays, Kutschkermarkt also has a farmer’s market, where regional fruits and vegetables join the lineup.

Spend a few hours in the MuseumsQuartier.

Self-described as “one of the largest cultural quarters in the world,” the MuseumsQuartier is a hub of Viennese creativity. Here you’ll find the Leopold Museum , the MUMOK (Museum of Modern Art Ludwig Foundation Vienna), and the contemporary exhibition space Kunsthalle Wien . If you’re interested in architecture, music, theater, dance, street art, literature, photography, or all of the above, you’ll find something interesting in the MuseumsQuartier.

Round out your meal with a Punschkrapfen.

A_Lein/Getty Images

“Punschkrapfen is a local delicacy made of nougat and jam-filled sponge cake soaked with rum,” says Haselbacher. Translated to punch cake, the dessert can be found in numerous places across the city, and you’ll notice it immediately thanks to its bright pink coloring.

Dive into Habsburg history at Hofburg Palace.

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Hofburg Palace once served as the Habsburgs’ winter residence, but today it’s the workplace and home of the president of Austria. Visitors are allowed to explore the palace, which houses three museums: the Imperial Apartments, the Sisi Museum, and the Imperial Silver Collection (although the latter is expected to be closed until 2026).

Make a reservation at Palmenhaus.

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You’ll find Palmenhaus in Vienna’s 1st district, next to the Albertina Museum . “With over 400 butterflies flying in the palm house year-round, it is a lovely spot to be immersed in nature,” says Haselbacher, who adds that it’s also a “very nice spot to have a drink, overlooking the Park Burggarten.”

Visit the history-filled Kunsthistorisches Museum.

rusm/Getty Images

“If you are even a little interested in art, a visit to the Kunsthistorisches Museum is a must,” says Julija Rigon. "It is one of the largest and most important museums in the world." Also referred to as the Museum of Fine Arts, the venue's collections span five millennia and include works by Pieter Bruegel the Elder, Rubens, Michelangelo, Vermeer, and more.

18 top things to do in Vienna

Jul 1, 2021 • 8 min read

Cycling on Danube Island in Vienna's Donaustadt district. © Balakate/Shutterstock

Museums filled with masterpieces, brilliant baroque streetscapes, sumptuous palaces and epicurean delights, naturally Vienna is an unmissable stop on your Europe adventure.

Now with street art, craft beer brewing, an analogue-only hotel stay, and summer ‘beach bars’, contemporary Vienna continues to flourish as a creative cultural hub.

Kunsthistorisches Museum Vienna

The jewel in Vienna's artistic crown is its Kunsthistorisches Museum Vienna . As well as accumulating vassal lands, the Habsburgs assembled one of Europe's finest collections of art and artefacts. Housed inside a majestic neoclassical building, the highlight of this incredible cache is the Picture Gallery, an encounter with a vast and emotionally powerful collection of works by grand masters, such as Pieter Bruegel the Elder's evocative and 'industrial' Tower of Babel from the 16th century or the bright plenitude of Giuseppe Arcimboldo's Summer.

Vienna’s coffee houses

Great works of art have been created in these 'living rooms' of the Viennese. Patronised by luminaries such as Mahler, Klimt, Freud, Trotsky and Otto Wagner in their day, Vienna's Kaffeehäuser (coffee houses) were added to the Unesco list of Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2011. Many retain their opulent original decor, and often specialise in a particular cake, such as the Sacher Torte, an iced-chocolate cake with apricot jam once favoured by Emperor Franz Josef, at Café Sacher. New-wave coffee houses are putting their own twist on the tradition.

MuseumsQuartier

Have you had enough of culture yet? No? Good, because the MuseumsQuartier (MQ) is a 90,000 sq metre exhibition space encompassing 60 cultural institutions ranging from fine art, music, theatre, and dance to game culture, street art and photography. Highlights include – including the Leopold Museum , MUMOK , Kunsthalle Wien , Architekturzentrum and Zoom but there are multiple micro-museums and creative spaces to explore. It’s also one of the key locations for the annual Wiener Festwochen (Vienna Festival) held over six weeks in May and June.

The annual Calle Libre street art festival focuses on one guiding theme as celebrated artists respond across curated walls for a week each summer. Founded almost a decade ago by Jakob Kettner, the festival brings together live paintings, street art works, guided tours, film screenings and workshops for urban aesthetics. You’ll get the chance to learn more about Vienna’s burgeoning street art scene, discover works from local and international artists, and find out what issues are shaping and challenging the city today. 

Ringstrasse Tram Tour

For a spin around Vienna's architectural highlights, jump on a tram and travel along the Ringstrasse , one of Europe's most magnificent streets. The circular boulevard of imposing state buildings was carved out of the space once occupied by fortifications protecting Vienna from Ottoman Turk attack in the 16th century. You’ll pass the Monument to the Victims of Fascism at the former Gestapo headquarters site, the neoclassical facade of Parlament, Austria’s parliament, the Athena Fountain, and Äusseres Burgtor (Outer Palace Gate). The Roman gate leads the way to the Imperial Palace, the Hofburg.

Schloss Schönbrunn 

The magnificent rococo former summer palace and gardens of the Habsburgs are a perfect place to experience the pomp, circumstance and gracious legacy of Austria's erstwhile monarchs. A visit to 40 of the palace's lavishly appointed rooms reveals the lifestyle and the eccentricities of Europe's most powerful family. Beyond the Unesco-listed palace, Schloss Schönbrunn Gardens invite a stroll past pseudo-Roman ruins, along bucolic paths winding through leafy woods and a stopover in the gardens' highlight, the Gloriette, with mesmerising views of the palace and city beyond.

Hofburg Palace 

The former wintering ground of the Habsburg monarchs for over 700 years, Hofburg is a living palace today. One of the biggest palace complexes in the world, it now houses a fine collection of museums, is home to the Austrian president, Austria's National Library and public offices. It is also the temporary home of the Austrian Parliament while the main building undergoes renovations expected to be completed in 2024. 

Donauturm tower

The newly renovated 1960s modernist Donauturm tower offers panoramic views across the city and the Danube river. It’s also located in one of the most beautiful and largest parks in the city, the Danube Park making it doubly worth a visit. From the top you’ll see the entire surrounding region of Vienna on a clear day. Who can resist booking a sunset meal at a rotating restaurant at 170m high? This is peak tourist, and we love it. The set-price Viennese three-course meal includes lift tickets.  

Whether it's coffee houses, local dining, or a pub crawl, there are a host of tours on offer to the best places to eat and drink in Vienna. Bi-lingual local tour guides guide visitors to different, seasonally appropriate (Christmas market foodie tour anyone?) locations to show off the best the city has to offer. One popular outfit founded by local couple Melinda and Thomas, Vienna Food Tours covers the variety of cuisines that influenced Viennese food: sampling appetizers, a sausage stand, mains, and of course something sweet to round it off over a whole afternoon. 

Riesenrad Giant Ferris Wheel 

It’s famous among cinephiles as the place Graham Greene sent his fictional character Harry Lime for a slow rotation in the 1949 film The Third Man. The 1897-built Riesenrad , otherwise known as the Viennese Giant Ferris Wheel, rises above the beautiful green open spaces of the Prater in Vienna’s 2nd district. A ride takes you high above the city and the wooded parkland and meadows below. Save some time to explore the Prater by foot or bicycle after you return to ground level.

Schloss Belvedere 

Living up to its Italianesque name 'beautiful view', this 18th-century palace and garden ensemble is deceptively close to Vienna's city centre while still creating a feeling of being worlds apart. Symmetrical, finely sculpted and manicured gardens overlooking Vienna's unfolding skyline connect two exquisite palaces dedicated to a who's who of Austrian art. Gustav Klimt's painting The Kiss is a highlight. The masterpieces on display are complemented by interiors so stately that they're worthy of a visit in their own right.

Stephansdom 

A Gothic reminder of another age, the Stephansdom is Vienna's heart and soul. The awe-inspiring cathedral lords over the city, topped by an intricately tiled roof, with its distinctive row of chevrons and Austrian eagle. Below the cathedral are the Katakomben (catacombs), with their eerie collection of the deceased; inside, a magnificent Gothic stone pulpit presides over the main nave; and rising above it to dizzying heights is the South Tower with its viewing stage offering dazzling panoramas over town.

Copa Cagrana Beach

Just beyond the city centre, nestled by the Donauinsel, lies Copa Cagrana Beach , a stretch of sandy beach bars, pop-up food stalls and a large open-air TV viewing area that locals flock to in the summer months. Only open between June and September Vienna makes the most of the holiday atmosphere with volleyball courts, trampolines and green space beside the water. Nibble on delicate Trześniewski sandwiches (open finger sandwiches) as you look across the Donaukanal, or satiate your summer cravings with a fresh spritzer.

Vineyard hiking

The hills surrounding Vienna are awash with vineyards and views, ripe for hiking and tippling in equal measure. Held in autumn (typically late September or October), the annual wine hiking day sees over 190 winemakers set up small wooden huts along the popular walking paths above Vienna, where thirsty hikers can stop in to try the fresh wine harvest of the year. Pick up your glass from one of the hiking-day stations at the bottom of the trail, and meander your way from Neustift to Nussdorf, Strebersdorf to Stammersdorf, or the shorter Ottakring to Neuwald route. The ‘hikes’ themselves are quite low impact and allow plenty of time to stop, sip and enjoy the fresh air.

VHS, vinyl and typewriters

Seeking a true digital detox can be challenging, with a constant barrage of tech an unavoidable part of our daily lives. To help you stay offline and relax, 25 Hours hotel has collaborated with Supersense cafe to create the first ‘analogue hotel room’ for your perfectly curated escape from modern life. Replacing wi-fi and wide screens with a typewriter, VHS player and vinyl records, the suite offers a stylish retreat to the simpler technologies of decades gone by. Perfect for a truly unplugged weekend getaway. If you want to explore further, book a bicycle from their friends at Schindelhauer.

Craft beer has come of age in Vienna with a number of bars specialising in locally made brews. Just off Mariahilferstrasse, Ammutson Craft Beer Dive 's commitment to fresh tap beer from local microbreweries is a welcome addition to the scene. While stalwart craft beer venues like Beaver Brewing Company continue to provide a hearty mix of delicious food, alongside their expansive and regularly changing craft beer menus. Beer drinkers, on your marks...

Christmas markets 

Vienna's much-loved Christmas market season runs from around mid-November to Christmas Eve. The Christkindlmärkte atmosphere is magical with stalls in streets and squares selling wooden toys, festive decorations and traditional food such as Würstel (sausages) and Glühwein (mulled wine). The centrepiece is the Wiener Weihnachtstraum Christkindlmarkt on Rathausplatz but you'll find Christmas markets across the city including at Schloss Schönbrunn.

Rudolfsheim-Fünfhaus: 15th district

The 15th district is experiencing a rejuvenation thanks to community driven events, interesting stores and markets. Brunch and coffee lovers can get their fill at Landkind , Das Augustin and Turnhalle im Brick 5 , and see Austria’s best barista slinging lattes at GOTA Coffee Experts . Hidden down the district's side alleys is the unique indie art gallery, Improper Walls , and quirky stores such as Metaware , a ‘gift shop for nerds & geeks’.

In the evenings, there’s a wealth of food and drink options to explore in the district, from Das Eduard’s pita burgers on its outdoor terrace, to indie bar ein affee and wine haven Reinwein . Vegetarians can enjoy the secluded delights of restaurant and art gallery Hollerei , a short walk from Meidling Hauptstrasse station.

This article was first published in May 2019, last updated by Tasmin Waby on 29 June 2021.

Free things to do in Vienna Best day trips from Vienna The 7 best things to do in Vienna with kids

This article was first published May 13, 2019 and updated Jul 1, 2021.

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Visit Vienna: Top 25 Things To Do and Must-See Attractions

Things to do in vienna: the 25 best places to visit and highlights.

You’re planning to visit Vienna during your next trip to Austria ? You’re looking for the best things to do in Vienna?

You’re at the right place!

Boasting grand palaces, numerous cool museums , and a historic city center listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site , the former capital of the Austro-Hungarian empire has preserved all its glamour and splendor.

In order to help you plan your stay , I have prepared for you this guide of the 25 best places to visit in Vienna , with all points of interest and must-see attractions.

In addition to this list of things to do and activities, I will also give you itineraries to visit Vienna in 1, 2, 3 or 4 days as well as my selection of the best accommodations depending on your budget.

And as always, this travel guide contains all my best tips to make the most of your stay.

So, what are the best things to do in Vienna? Where to stay?

Let’s find out!

1. Schönbrunn Palace

2. visiting the gardens of schönbrunn, 3. hofburg imperial palace, 4. belvedere palace, 5. stephansdom, vienna’s st. stephen’s cathedral, 6. take a cruise on the danube, 7. the vienna prater / vienna’s giant ferris wheel, 8. museumsquartier, 9. the staatsoper, vienna state opera, 10. going to a concert in vienna, 11. the naschmarkt, 12. visiting the albertina museum, 13. spanish riding school of vienna, 14. mozarthaus / mozart’s house, 15. vienna city hall, 16. the capuchin crypt, 17. guided tour in vienna, 18. shopping in vienna, 19. taking a break in a viennese café, 20. saint charles church, 21. hundertwasserhaus, 22. austrian national library, 23. the museum of art history, 24. day trips from vienna, how many days to visit vienna, exploring vienna in 1 day, best things to do in vienna in 2 days, exploring vienna in 3 day, best things to do in vienna in 4 days, visiting vienna in 5 days or more, where to stay in vienna, where to eat in vienna, how to get to vienna, vienna tourist map, you’re traveling in austria these articles will help you, visiting vienna: 25 must-see attractions.

Here’s a bit of advice before you dive into my list of the best things to do and see in Vienna.

To explore Vienna and its key attractions, you should really get the Vienna Pass .  It’s the best way to save time and money!

Here’s what’s included:

• Access to 70 must-see sites, monuments, and museums like Schonbrunn Palace, Hofburg Palace, Belvedere Palace, and most of the spots I’ll be talking about.
• Unlimited hop-on hop-off bus rides – 6 routes with 47 stops.

Depending on how long you’re staying in Vienna, you can choose between a 1, 2, 3, or 6-day pass .

To get your Vienna Pass, you simply need to click on the green button below :

The Schönbrunn Palace is definitely an unmissable sight during your stay in Vienna.

A UNESCO World Heritage site , often compared to the Palace of Versailles, it used to be the summer residence of the Habsburgs , the imperial Austrian family.

Today, you can join guided tours of this stunning 18th-century Baroque masterpiece. It’s the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in its incredibly rich history!

Book a guided tour of Schönbrunn Palace , including access to the interior and gardens, by clicking on the button below :

Check out the imperial apartments , the sumptuous state rooms , and immerse yourself in the everyday life of the former ruling class by visiting the intimate quarters of the emperors and empresses .

The grand gallery with its mirrors, towering windows, and exquisite frescoes is particularly breathtaking, as are the Chinese cabinets , lavishly decorated with priceless Chinese porcelain.

If you’re not up for the guided tour, don’t forget that the ticket for Schönbrunn is included in the Vienna Pass .

Best things to do in Vienna at night

Another cool thing I’d recommend doing at Schonbrunn is to attend a classical music concert in the famed Orangery .

This exceptional venue was once the host to grand court banquets. The concert features: Mozart’s most famous operas followed by Strauss’s waltzes

Don’t hesitate, make your Vienna visit unforgettable with a memorable night, and book your tickets now by clicking here .

At Schönbrunn Palace, I also recommend you amble around the extensive park. It’s over a kilometer long and one of the best places to stroll in Vienna!

On your walk through the gardens you’ll see:

• The Palm House , the last of its kind in Europe. Inside, you’ll find a recreation of various climates including cold, temperate, and tropical, creating optimal conditions for the diverse flora.
• The zoo (get your tickets here!) caused quite a stir in 1828 when it hosted the first giraffe on Austrian soil. It even started a “giraffe” fashion trend, complete with clothing, accessories, and hairstyles.
• The numerous fountains scattered throughout the park.
• The Vienna Imperial Carriage Museum (get your ticket here!) , a spectacular collection of carriages, ceremonial cars, and sleds frequently used by the royal family.

Admission to the buildings within the park, such as the zoo or the museum, is not included in the castle entry ticket.

That’s why I’ve provided links for you to buy your additional tickets separately if you wish to visit them. They are, however, included with the Vienna Pass.

Since the gardens of Schönbrunn are so big, there’s a miniature panoramic train that lets you tour the area and hop off whenever you want. You can get on and off as many times as you like at the 9 stops on the circuit .

To book your miniature train tour in the park, click here!

Let’s continue this Vienna tour with a visit to the iconic Hofburg Palace .

Just like Schönbrunn, Hofburg Palace is a must-visit attraction in Vienna that has served as the residence of the influential Austrian emperors for over six centuries!

With each emperor adding their personal touch with extensions here and there, today the palace is the largest in the city and arguably Vienna’s most imposing historical building .

During your visit, you’ll be amazed by the opulent imperial apartments , including highlights such as the lavish bedrooms , the intricate toilet and gym rooms, the magnificent salon of the empress , and the emperor’s elegant study .

Only part of the palace is accessible as it currently houses the offices of the presidential administration and several museums, including the Albertina museum (I’ll tell you more about it later).

Speaking of museums, I highly recommend you visit the museum dedicated to Empress Sisi .

It traces the entire (quite eventful) life of the famed empress up to her tragic assassination in Geneva. You’ll find many personal artifacts of hers as well as some of her most beautiful dresses and jewels .

Another wing of the palace also houses an impressive collection of silverware , gathering nearly 7,000 pieces of fine tableware .

The entrance fee to the palace includes visits to the royal apartments, the Sisi Museum and the silverware collection.

The visit is included in the Vienna Pass otherwise you can purchase the standalone ticket here:

The Belvedere Palace is the 3 rd must-see Baroque palace in Vienna . It actually consists of two palaces connected by a grandiose French-style garden .

In the first palace, situated in the Upper Belvedere , art enthusiasts will find the largest collection of works by the renowned Austrian painter Klimt , and also paintings by Monet and Van Gogh.

The Lower Belvedere, on the other hand, is used for setting up temporary exhibitions .

The visit is included in the Vienna Pass .

If you wish to skip the queues but don’t have the pass for visiting Vienna, you should get your skip-the-line tickets for the Belvedere Museum here :

The famous St. Stephen’s Cathedral sits on Vienna’s central square, Stephansplatz . It’s one of the main tourist attractions in Vienna .

Built from the 14th century on the ruins of an old church, the cathedral is a wonderful example of Baroque and Gothic architecture . Its colorful tiled roof showcasing the double-headed k.u.k eagle (kaiserlich und königlich, which means Imperial and Royal in German) and the coats of arms of Vienna and Austria, is truly impressive.

Once inside the cathedral, you’ll be blown away by its stunning interior. Take a moment to admire the relics adorned with gold and other precious metals and explore the catacombs, where you’ll find the final resting spots of Emperor Frederick III and Prince Eugene of Savoy.

Finally, to cap off your visit beautifully, I recommend climbing the 343 steps to reach the Turmerstube which offers a stunning view over all of Vienna .

To make the most of your visit to the cathedral, you should get an all-inclusive ticket so you won’t have to queue at the entrance!

What’s even better is that this ticket not only grants you access to the stunning cathedral but also includes a visit to the cathedral museum and a fascinating guided tour of the catacombs. Book it clicking the button below:

Several nights a week, you also have the opportunity to attend a classical music concert held in Vienna Cathedral. However, it’s absolutely essential to book your seats in advance by clicking on this link !

Another great activity I have in store for you in this top 25 list of things to do and see in Vienna is a cruise along the legendary Danube River .

Embarking on a boat trip along the river will treat you to unforgettable vistas of Vienna that you won’t find anywhere else. Various options are offered in terms of duration.

The most popular one is the 1-hour outing that you can book by clicking the button below:

There’s also an option with lunch included :

You could also opt for a cruise with concert and romantic dinner .

Some cruises even include a visit to the Danube Tower (tickets available here), where you can enjoy panoramic views of the city from its 150-meter-high observation platform.

Speaking of admiring the city from above, you can also book an exhilarating helicopter ride over Vienna !

You can find all the details about this activity by simply clicking here !

The Prater is a massive public park in Vienna that’s definitely worth a visit.

It’s particularly famous for housing another one of the city’s symbols, its Giant Ferris Wheel: the Riesenrad . Standing at a precise 64.75 meters high, it’s one of the oldest still-operational Ferris wheels in the world.

You’ll get to take a spin in one of the 15 wooden cabins in 20 minutes to catch a stunning panoramic view of the whole city .

You can buy your tickets directly here , but note that the ride is also included with the Vienna pass .

Besides the Ferris wheel, you’ll also find other rides in the park as it hosts a permanent fair with more than 250 attractions .

If you’re wondering what to do in Vienna with kids , this is a fantastic idea!

Another section of the park, known as the “ Green Prater ” is a haven for walkers and cyclists . It offers a plethora of pathways that invite you to explore its forests and meadows. And for those who don’t feel like walking, a small train will take you on a tour of the park .

To discover everything about the activities available in the Prater during your Vienna vacation, make sure to visit the official website .

If you’re a fan of museums, the MuseumsQuartier is a must-visit for you. It’s the best neighborhood for a bit of cultural tourism in Vienna .

Built on the site of the former imperial stables, this pedestrian area offers a variety of incredibly interesting museums spread over nearly 60,000 m². It’s also packed with restaurants, cafés, and bookstores.

Among Vienna’s most famous museums, be sure to visit (click on the orange links to book your tickets one by one):

• The Leopold Museum : it houses the world’s largest collection of works by Egon Schiele and a few works by Gustav Klimt (whose other works are exhibited at the Belvedere Palace).
• The MUMOK : the museum of modern art mainly focused on 20 th century art with works from Andy Warhol or Yoko Ono. It also features paintings by Pablo Picasso.
• The Kunsthalle Wien : focused on international contemporary art.

You’ll find the MuseumsQuartier map and the list of museums to visit right here .

It’s worth noting that access to all museums in the MuseumsQuartier is included with the Vienna city pass .

It’s simply unthinkable to visit Vienna without at least stopping by the Staatsoper, the iconic temple of classical music that showcases world-renowned operas and concerts.

If you have the time, I highly advise you to attend an opera performance at the Staatsoper . Contrary to popular belief, ticket prices aren’t that high considering the exceptional quality of the performance offered .

And if you don’t speak German, the language of most operas, no worries! You can easily activate subtitles in your preferred language during the performance.

The Staatsoper also offers live opera performances , especially during the months of April, May, and June . The performances are projected live on a giant screen in front of the Opera . A really great idea to allow everyone to enjoy, and it’s free !

Finally, the Vienna National Opera also organizes tours of the interior and behind-the-scenes on select days when there are no rehearsals. If you can’t afford to attend a performance, you can at least admire the place.

Head to the Staatsoper ticket counter 1.5 hours before the start of performances .

You can get tickets for less than €10 , but keep in mind that for this price, you’ll be required to stand at the back of the room for the duration of the 2 to 3-hour show.

There are also other Vienna venues known for their music performances, like the Musikverein , the Orangery at Schonbrunn Palace , and the Vienna Volksoper .

The prices are often lower than for the Staatsoper.

You can find the entire musical program in Vienna on this website .

I’ve also prepared a selection of the best concerts in Vienna for you just below. Click on the links for details and to book:

• Vivaldi’s Four Seasons at the Musikverein
• A concert featuring 30 musicians from the Mozart Orchestra in the Musikverein’s Golden Hall
• A classical music concert in Vienna’s magnificent St. Peter’s Church
• A classical music concert performed by a string quartet at St. Anne’s Church
• A performance of Vivaldi’s Four Seasons at St. Charles Church
• Mozart and Strauss concert at Vienna’s Kursalon , a show with musicians, singers, and dancers.
• A concert by the Vienna Residence Orchestra , one of the world’s best chamber orchestras, at the Auersperg Palace.

You’re going to Vienna?

You probably know it: the hardest part of planning your trip is to find an hotel offering a good value for money!

And that’s even worse in the large European capitals 😅.

The closer you get to your travel dates, the harder it will be to get a good deal. Tens of thousands of people will be visiting Vienna on the same dates as you , so you can be sure that the best deals are booked extremely quickly!

Hopefully, there is a pretty simple solution to this problem: do like me and book your hotel as early as possible!

So, my best advice is to take 5 minutes (now) to have a look at the list of travelers’ favorite hotels in Vienna.

And if you see a good offer, book it!

Most hotels offer free cancellation, so it’s quick, easy, and you will avoid the the inconvenience of finding nothing but mediocre rooms at exorbitant prices.

To check the current best deals for your hotel in Vienna, simply click on the green button below 😎:

Once you’ve booked your hotel, it will be time to continue reading this guide and find out more about the best things to do in Vienna!

Still wondering what to do in Vienna ?

Look no further than the Naschmarkt, Vienna’s perennial market .

Open Monday to Saturday, it’s your go-to for all Austrian local products , but also goods from all over the world . Whether you crave Indian, Italian, Vietnamese, or other global delights, you’ll find yourself spoiled for choice.

On Saturdays , there’s also a huge flea market where you can find nifty items or just something to clutter your house a little more!

The spot is lively and fun, boasting loads of cafes and restaurants . The DO-An and the Naschmarkt Deli are particularly well-known.

You can also book a culinary guided tour at the Naschmarkt . Your guide will lead you to the best stalls for tasting local and worldwide specialties .

The Albertina is situated in Vienna’s historical center and is one of the Hofburg Palace’s museums .

The museum showcases permanent and temporary exhibitions covering a period from the 15th century to the present day . You’ll find masterpieces by Cézanne, Picasso, Monet and even Chagall and Renoir .

Aside from these masterworks, your museum entry allows you to visit the 20 recently restored state rooms whose original furnishings will transport you back to the opulent times of the imperial family.

This is the must-visit museum in Vienna!

Priority access tickets can be purchased ahead of time with the button below :

As you can see, there’s a lot of museums to visit in Vienna . I’ve mentioned some of the popular ones that are widely known, but there are many more to discover out there!

• The Vienna Museum of Natural History , a fantastic museum that houses an impressive collection of artifacts. Discover the world’s oldest meteorites, marvel at dinosaur skeletons, and don’t miss the chance to see the Venus of Willendorf, a remarkable Upper Paleolithic limestone statuette.
• The Chocolate Museum , which displays an impressive collection of yummy chocolate sculptures. The museum also organizes workshops where you can create your own chocolate bars. You can book here (this includes the museum ticket too!)
• The House of Music , a museum on the history of Viennese classical music. An engaging and interactive experience that is anything but boring!
• The Torture Museum , focusing on the various corporal punishments enforced throughout the centuries
• The Museum of Technology , a captivating and well-executed museum that immerses you in the world of technological advancements.
• The Museum of Illusions, where you can capture mind-bending photos in various 3D settings. A brilliant idea for a kid-friendly visit in Vienna!
• The Vienna Jewish Museum and the Judenplatz Museum on the history and traditions of Jews in Austria
• The Vienna Madame Tussauds Museum , for selfies with your favorite stars.

Vienna’s Spanish Riding School is a long-standing institution. They’ve practiced the classic art of High School dressage since the Renaissance.

Even today, the school is a world-renowned dressage center . Riders train daily on their purebred Lipizzaner stallions . It takes years of training to achieve perfection.

Watching their morning training is one of the most popular tourist activities to experience in Vienna . The venue where the training takes place, the Imperial Winter Riding School , is truly a sight to behold. With its magnificent chandeliers and elegant balconies, the venue adds an extra touch of grandeur to the experience.

If you want to attend the morning training, you should book in advance using the button below :

Entry is included with the Vienna Pass.

You also have the possibility to:

• Take a guided tour of the riding school (click here)
• Attend one of their performances. Make sure to book well in advance by clicking here.

Next on this Vienna guide is Mozart’s house.

The famous composer lived at No. 5 Domgasse from 1784 to 1787. It’s the only one of Mozart’s Vienna dwellings that still exists today, out of the dozen where he lived.

You can visit the rooms of his apartment and step into the intimacy of this fascinating and brilliant artist. With a bit of imagination, you can even picture him in the place where he composed one of his most beautiful operas: The Marriage of Figaro .

Tickets for the visit to Mozart’s house can be purchased here if you don’t have the Vienna Pass. The English audioguide is included.

If you’ve decided to explore Vienna on foot, I recommend passing by Vienna’s city hall, or Rathaus . You can’t miss it, its tall tower of nearly 100 meters topped by the Rathausmann (the iron man) is a city emblem .

Thanks to its neo-gothic style, the building stands out as the most significant non-religious structure in Vienna .

Constructed between 1872 and 1883, the construction of the building required an astounding amount of materials. They used nearly 30 million bricks and approximately 40,000 cubic meters of stones to bring the imposing structure to life. Its inner courtyard is one of the largest in Europe and it boasts a grand ballroom.

The Rathaus is the seat of Vienna’s municipality and thus houses the offices of the mayor and his advisors. Guided tours are available on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday at 1 pm without reservation.

Throughout the year, Rathausplatz, the square in front of the city hall , hosts a plethora of events.. Don’t hesitate to stop by during your Vienna tour .

If you’ve decided to visit Vienna in winter , you’ll find there the Christmas market , the screening of the Vienna New Year’s concert and even a skating rink in January and February.

If you have an interest in learning about imperial Vienna, I highly recommend paying a visit to the Capuchin Crypt, also known as Kaisergruft .

The crypt is located beneath the Capuchin Church and houses many tombs of the Habsburg imperial family .

In total, 149 family members are buried there, including 19 empresses and 12 emperors . And this is where you’ll find Empress Sisi’s tomb .

And once again, your Vienna Pass will allow you free entry! Otherwise, you also have the option to buy it in advance by clicking here !

Why not explore Austria’s capital with a guided tour ?

It’s hands down the best way to learn about the history of the place and its monuments !

And you’re in luck, one of the best guided tours is available with an English-speaking guide . You’ll have the choice of duration, between 2 to 6 hours , and your guide will craft a custom itinerary based on your interests.

They’ll even meet you directly at your accommodation!

To book an English-speaking guided tour of Vienna , click the button below:

If you’re not up for a walking tour, no worries, there’s loads of other cool and original options in Vienna :

• A 3-hour Segway tour of Vienna in a small group. No problem if you’ve never done it before, you’ll pick it up quickly!
• A 2-hour guided tour in a Hotrod , a single-seater car (driver’s license required)
• A 3-hour guided bike tour
• A 60-minute guided electric bike tour
• A horse-drawn carriage ride through the old town to admire the architecture of the monuments while you imagine yourself as a nobleman. Perfect for a romantic activity in Vienna!
• A sightseeing tour of Vienna in a retro electric car . You can choose from various durations for the ride.

And if you prefer a quirky guided tour in Vienna , I especially recommend:

• A Ghost Tour: a nighttime walking tour on the theme of ghosts, witches, and vampires. You’ll learn all about Vienna’s scariest stories!
• A tour of the Vienna underground with a visit to the archaeological site of Michaelerplatz and the crypt of Saint Michael’s Church where nearly 4,000 people were buried.
• A guided tour of the central cemetery in Vienna where numerous local celebrities are buried.
• A scavenger hunt through the city where you’ll follow clues and solve riddles. To be downloaded to your phone.

Fancy a bit of shopping in Vienna ?

No problem, you’ll find everything you need and don’t need on Graben and Karntner streets .

Graben Street is the most popular for shopping with its skillful mixture of modern and traditional shops . It’s Vienna’s busiest pedestrian street.

Be sure to look up from your bags occasionally to admire the stunning architecture of the buildings that line it.

Karntner is also a major pedestrian shopping street in Vienna . It runs from Stephansplatz to Karlsplatz . It’s a must-visit in Vienna for shopping fans.

And there you have it, snack time has (finally) arrived, it’s time to head to one of Vienna’s famous cafes to taste the local specialties. The culture of Viennese cafés is even part of the UNESCO intangible cultural heritage !

The cream of the crop , my friends, are these establishments:

• Get a taste of Café Sperl’s apple strudel. It’s worth every bite.
• At Café Sacher, you can’t miss their homemade Sachertorte, a delightful chocolate cake.
• Then there’s Hawelka, one of Vienna’s oldest coffee houses.
• Café Central is another place worth your time, known for its selection of homemade pastries.

To sample 3 types of Viennese coffee along with various pastries, why not tour the best coffee houses with a guide ? Drinks and pastries are, of course, included!

Book this 2.5-hour tour directly by clicking here!

During your excursion to Vienna , I’d strongly suggest you to take a leisurely walk around Karlsplatz , where you’ll discover the magnificent St. Charles Church (or Karlskirche as the locals call it).

Commissioned in 1713 by none other than Emperor Charles VI himself as a celebration marking the end of the pesky plague epidemic, this church stands as a pretty impressive specimen of Baroque architecture . Between you and me, it’s rather photogenic.

Surprisingly, inside the church, a panoramic elevator takes you up close to the beautiful ceiling frescoes to admire the minute details. Don’t hesitate to try it out, I’m not sure this exists anywhere else.

The church is open from Monday to Saturday from 9am to 6pm and Sunday and during holidays from 12pm to 7pm.

You can also attend a Mozart Requiem in the church on some winter evenings. Info and reservations right here !

The Hundertwasserhaus is an unusual sight to visit in Vienna .

The building was constructed by architect Friedensreich Hundertwasser , who, let’s admit it, had rather unique tastes.

With its multicolored facade, its strange floors, and its green walls, it’s not really describable – you’ll have to see it for yourself!

You won’t be able to enter, but there’s a café on the ground floor that shows a film in which the architect himself gives a tour of his work.

The building is located at 37-39 Kekelgasse Street .

Near Hundertwasserhaus, you can also visit the Kunst Haus Wien, the Hundertwasser Museum , which showcases several of his works and also features an unconventional building design.

Entrance is included in the Vienna pass but you can also purchase a single ticket directly here !

The Austrian National Library is the largest Baroque library in Europe . So, I highly recommend you pop by during your Vienna escapade .

The library houses an impressive 7 million works, books and papyruses !

Besides being the biggest, the library also boasts one of the most beautiful rooms in the world, the State Hall .

With its 80 meters length and 20 meters height, its dome adorned with frescoes and a collection of 200,000 old volumes , the hall is truly jaw-dropping.

Entry is free with your Vienna Pass .

The Museum of Art History, or Kunsthistorisches Museum , is one of the city’s most prestigious cultural edifice.

Commissioned by Emperor Franz Joseph to house his personal collections, the museum today exhibits an extensive collection of works by Rubens, Vermeer, and Rembrandt .

The “ cabinet of curiosities “, Kunstkammer in German, also located within the museum, showcases one of the world’s most extravagant collections of priceless artifacts , many of which were once the pride and joy of the Habsburgs.

To avoid hours of waiting, consider grabbing your skip-the-line entries right here or purchasing the Vienna Pass .

Best things to do around Vienna

If you’ve decided to jet off to Vienna for a few days , you could also take the opportunity to explore the surroundings .

I’ve compiled for you my list of the top things to do around Vienna .

Setting out from Vienna , you’ve got plenty of options if you’re in the mood to venture on a day trip into the neighboring countryside.

Conveniently, they all come with return transportation from Vienna and a friendly guide for the day.

I’ve selected the best ones for you below. All you need to do is click on the orange links to access the information, the rates, and proceed to booking :

• From Vienna: Wachau and Danube Valleys excursion – Bus tour exploring the scenic valleys around Vienna + 1-hour cruise along the charming Danube + a visit to the renowned Melk Abbey .
• Visit to the Salzkammergut Lake Region + Guided tour of the picturesque village of Hallstatt . The day also includes a visit to Admont Abbey .
• From Vienna: Salzburg Tour – Discover Mozart’s birthplace during a guided tour of the main points of interest.
• A Day at Hallstatt with a trip to the panoramic observation platform
• Visit 3 family-owned vineyards with wine tastings + 1 traditional lunch or dinner
• Excursion to Bratislava, Slovakia . The two cities are only 60 km apart, which is a great idea for a day trip around Vienna. The journey there is by bus and the return is by catamaran on the Danube. You’ll have plenty of time to explore the old town during a guided tour.
• Excursion to Budapest from Vienna – Spend the day exploring the capital of Hungary.
• Excursion to Prague from Vienna – Take a day to visit the Czech capital!

From Vienna, you can also reach Graz in 2h15 by car .

In Graz, I suggest you visit:

• The Schlossberg , the city’s highest point offering a superb panorama
• The Hauptplatz, the main square from where all the main shopping streets start
• The Landeszeughaus, a museum whose collection of weapons and armors is one of the most impressive in the world
• St. Giles Cathedral in Graz

To learn more about places to visit in Graz , you should read my detailed article: Best things to do and see in Graz !

You’ve probably noticed, there’s a heap of things to see in Vienna . Most visits can easily take you 2 to 3 hours, which quickly limits the number of places you can visit in a day.

So, I suggest you stay a minimum of 4 days in Vienna if you want to cover the must-sees without rushing and while allowing for some Viennese coffee breaks!

If you’re plotting to hang around Vienna for 5, 6 days, or even a whole week, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to embark on a few day trips in and around the city .

Here are 2 tips to save money during your stay in Vienna:

For those looking to zip around Vienna using public transport , you should grab the Vienna City Card ( available right here ), starting from just €13.90 for a day. They’ve also got 48h and 72h options . You’ll be able to get around freely by metro, bus, and tramway!

And don’t forget the one that I’ve already mentioned, the Vienna Pass . Not only does this gem offer unlimited access to hop-on-hop-off buses, but it also grants you entry to around sixty of Vienna’s must-see sights . Sounds pretty good, right?

Book your Vienna city pass using the button below:

If you’re looking to squeeze all of Vienna into one day, here’s my itinerary:

• Kick things off with a visit to the splendid Schönbrunn Palace .
• Lunch break at the Naschmarkt
• Swinging by St. Charles’s Church
• Strolling through the historic center to admire landmarks like the Opera House and the Rathaus
• Wrapping up the day with a climb up the tower of St. Stephen’s Cathedral to soak in the sunset over the city.

To make the most of Vienna in 1 day, you might also consider a hop-on hop-off bus tour if you don’t fancy doing a lot of walking. Some tours even throw in a boat ride , which could be a lovely little addition to your Viennese venture.

Catch your hop-on hop-off bus tickets for Vienna right here !

To visit Vienna in 2 days , just stick to the one-day itinerary and add:

• Attending the Spanish Riding School’s morning exercise
• Touring the Hofburg Palace
• Lunch break
• Taking in the awe-inspiring Vienna National Library
• Exploring the Albertina Museum
• Catching an opera or a classical music concert .

For a 3-day trip to Vienna , follow the two-day itinerary and include:

• A wander around the MuseumsQuartier where you’ll have a tough choice to make between popping into the MUMOK or the Leopold Museum .
• Lunching at one of the many restaurants in the area
• Heading down into the Capuchin Crypt to see the tombs of the emperors and Empress Sisi
• Stopping by the Hundertwasserhaus
• Rounding off the afternoon at the Prater with a Ferris Wheel ride at sunset.

For a 4-day trip to Vienna, use the 1, 2, and 3-day tour itineraries and add:

• Visiting the Kunsthistorisches Museum
• Shopping spree down Karnten and Graben streets
• Discovering Mozart’s house
• Taking a ride along the Danube and heading up the Donauturm, the Danube Tower .

If you’re planning a 5-day or longer stay in Vienna , you’ll have plenty of time to explore the surroundings .

For example, you could go on one of the day trips I mentioned in point 23 of this article.

• Wombat’s CITY Hostels Vienna – Naschmarkt : Youth hostel located next to the Naschmarkt. Dormitory beds from €25. Strong points: Perfect location to reach the main points of interest on foot, cleanliness, spacious rooms.
• Leonardo Hotel Vienna: Located 100 meters from a shopping street with restaurants and shops, and 5 minutes by metro from the historical center. Comfortable and spacious double room from €80, breakfast at €13. Strong points: The good breakfast, the location, close to the metro, the cleanliness.
• Motel One Wien-Staatsoper : Located in the heart of the old city, within walking distance of all the tourist sites and the main museums. Warm and modern double room from €130 per night, breakfast at €11. Strong points: Excellent location, the superb bedding, the great breakfast and room decor. It’s my favorite for its excellent value for money !
• Hilton Vienna Danube Waterfront : Situated on the banks of the Danube, not far from the Prater and 5 minutes by metro from the historical center. Spacious double room with a sitting area and some with a river view from €150, breakfast at €26. Strong points: The outdoor pool, the very friendly staff, location and tranquility.
• Steigenberger Hotel Herrenhof : Nestled next to the Hofburg Palace, this 5-star spot offers cozy and modern rooms starting from €230, with breakfast at an additional €32. Strong points: The tranquil Spa, the friendly staff, and its unbeatable location. This one’s my top pick for a high-end stay in Vienna!
• Grand Hotel Wien : Another 5-star hotel, just a 3-minute walk from Vienna Opera House. Expect spacious and comfortable rooms with classic-style furniture starting from €300 per night, including breakfast. Strong points: the Spa, the superb 1-star Michelin restaurant, and the peaceful ambiance of the hotel.
• Hotel Sacher Wien : This is Vienna’s iconic hotel, right across from the Opera House. It welcomes you with stunning and luxurious rooms featuring heated floors, marble bathrooms, and a perfect blend of modernity and vintage furniture. Starting at a cool €430. Strong points: the little perks, attentive staff, and central location. The best hotel in Vienna for a luxury stay !

Next up, I’ve got a selection of apartments I simply couldn’t decide between – they’re all pretty similar in terms of amenities and budget. Prices range from €110 to €140 a night, including cleaning fees. All of them modern, fully equipped and in great locations.

• Vienna Mariahilfer Apartment : A sprawling 70m² for just €110 a night.
• Apartments Spittelberg Gardegasse : Starting from €120 a night.
• HeyMi Apartments in City Center : A range of apartments, each more spectacular than the last, starting from €130 a night. A big thumbs up for their value for money !
• HeyMi Apartments Opernring : Run by the same folks as above, but set in a different neighbourhood.

You will find all the best hotels in Vienna, organized by districts and budget, in my dedicated article: Where to Stay in Vienna?

• Plachutta: This restaurant, just a stone’s throw from Mozart’s house (but there are several others in Vienna), comes highly recommended. Try the typical Austrian cuisine in a really cozy atmosphere. Their tafelspitz, a sort of long-simmered pot roast served with a plethora of sides, is a house speciality. And it’s seriously hearty! Reservation recommended.
• Zum Alten FassL : Located at Ziegelofengasse 37. This typical Viennese restaurant offers great traditional dishes at a very reasonable price. And as a bonus, you get to enjoy your meal in a beautiful courtyard.
• Le burger : Located at Mariahilfer Strasse 114. No local specialties here, but a really tasty burger for a real bargain! Excellent quality buns, tender meat, homemade fries, and a super warm ambiance. Perfect for a quick and delicious lunch.

Stefanie Restaurant is another Viennese institution , tucked away in the city’s oldest hotel , open since the 17th century! They serve traditional dishes only like goulash, Wiener Schnitzel, and the must-try apple strudel (Austrian pancakes) for dessert.

Tip: Make sure you arrive hungry because the portions are massive!

Reservations are a must , and you can book your 7-course meal + 3 drinks by clicking here :

The Hard Rock Café is also a bit of an institution in Vienna, and you should definitely check it out at least once during your stay! The only problem, is the long line at the entrance… …

But that was before 😉.

It’s now possible to reserve your spot in advance by prepaying a menu. You’ll have the privilege of walking by with a smug smile at all the other patrons who didn’t read Voyage Tips and are stuck in line! 😃

All you have to do is click the button below :

Vienna is approximately 2 hours away by plane from France . Many European national and low-cost airlines offer several round trips a day.

Top tip: It’s also worth checking prices to land in Bratislava , Slovakia’s capital, which is only 60 km away from Vienna . The two cities are connected by a bus line , so it’s super easy to get to Vienna while saving on the cost of the flight!

And even more fun than the bus, there are also transfers between Vienna and Bratislava by catamaran. Info and bookings here !

Compare all the flight offers now with Skyscanner. Once on the results page, don’t hesitate to compare several websites to make sure no fees are added to the final prices.

To help you visualize the city a bit better, I’ve created a tourist map of Vienna listing the places to visit that I talk about in this top 25 things to do. You can display the map legend by clicking the button with a small arrow at the top left corner.

So, what exciting places are on your itinerary for Vienna ?

Discover all my articles about Austria : All my articles to help you plan your trip to Austria are listed there.

• 20 Best Things to Do in Austria : all best places to visit and activities
• Itinerary: One week in Austria – The perfect itinerary for your 7-8 days trip to Austria
• Graz: TOP 10 best places to visit
• Hallstatt: TOP 6 things to do during your stay
• Innsbruck: The 15 best things to do and see
• Linz: TOP 12 places to visit and must-see attractions
• Salzburg: The 17 best things to do
• Vienna: TOP 25 tourist attractions  

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Creator of the Voyage Tips blog, travel and photography lover. I give you all my best tips to plan your next trip.

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Discussion 2 comments.

Is the WienMobile EasyCityPass the best public transport option for Vienna? We will be buying the Vienna Pass, as per your recommendation, for the bulk of our sightseeing, but we want to know what is the best general public transport option outside of Vienna Pass usage. I love your site. It is my favorite!

Hello Thomas,

Thanks a lot! I’m glad that my guide with the best things to do in Vienna helps you to organise your visits.

For the best public transport option, it will depend on the length of your stay in Vienna. You can look at this page which summarises all the options with fares: Wien Mobil .

Enjoy your trip to Vienna!

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Vienna   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Christoph Hetzmannseder | Getty Images

18 Best Things to Do in Vienna, Austria

Vienna is a city that relishes its past, and it has the attractions to prove it. The historic city center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and whether you're interested in the long-reigning Habsburg family; music composed by Vienna's own

• All Things To Do

Hofburg Palace Hofburg Palace

Unlike Vienna's other royal residences, Hofburg is like a city within a city. Sitting on the southwestern edge of the Innere Stadt , the 13th-century palace was the winter residence of the Habsburgs, and a center of power for some 600 years. These days, the Hofburg Palace is residence and office of the President of Austria, however extensive parts of the palace are still open to visitors.

One area of the palace is the Sisi Museum, named after Empress Elisabeth, wife of Emperor Franz Joseph, with more than 300 objects on display. The Sisi Museum offers insights both into the grandeur of the Habsburgs and into the life and death of Vienna's beloved Empress Elizabeth. You can also explore the Imperial Apartments ( Kaiserappartements ) where the royal family lived. Though Hofburg has about 2,600 rooms, only 18 are open for the public to tour. The oldest parts surround the Swiss Wing ( Schweizertrakt ), named for the Swiss guards who used to patrol the area. (Unfortunately, the silver collection is closed until further notice.)

Schönbrunn Palace Schönbrunn Palace

Originally constructed from 1696 as a grand hunting lodge, Schönbrunn Palace later became the official Hapsburg summer residence. Under the supervision of Maria Theresa (the only female Habsburg ruler), Schönbrunn evolved into an expansive paradise with ornate rooms and vast elaborate gardens comparable to King Louis XIV of France's palace at Versailles . One of the finest baroque palaces in Europe, Schönbrunn was one of the first places in Austria to be declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, back in 1996. A tour will lead you through apartments belonging to Maria Theresa as well as Emperor Franz Joseph, his wife Elisabeth (better known as Sisi) and Archduke Franz Karl. Other highlights include the Blue Staircase, the Mirror Room and the Hall of Ceremonies. Plan to spend at least an hour in the gardens, which are connected by promenades that extend from the Gloriette, a stunning Roman-style arch overlooking a vast pool. Located within the grounds is the Tiergarten , the oldest zoo in the world.

Travelers say the grounds are beautiful, the tour is insightful and the zoo is entertaining for the whole family, but many warn about how crowded this attraction gets. Some suggest visiting first thing in the morning to avoid the congested atmosphere. Others wish there had been more information about the history within the rooms themselves.

MuseumsQuartier Wien MuseumsQuartier Wien

U.S. News Insider Tip: The area between the MuseumsQuartier and Naschmarkt – especially along and leading off Gumpendorfer Strasse – is a great place to explore for small, trendy bars and boutique stores. – Rudolf Abraham

Straddling the southwest section of the Ringstrasse, the MuseumsQuartier Wien is an enormous cultural institution comprising numerous top-notch museums. If you're even remotely interested in art, head to the Leopold Museum , which houses an exceptionally impressive collection of Austrian masterpieces dating from the 19th century to the present – including major works by Gustav Klimt, Oskar Kokoschka and Egon Schiele (it's the world's largest collection of works by Schiele). Next door, the Museum of Modern Art (aka MUMOK) is home to the national collection of 20th-century works by famed artists like Max Ernst, Rene Magritte and Andy Warhol. Adjacent to MUMOK, the Kunsthalle Wien showcases an ever-rotating collection of avant-garde exhibits featuring contemporary art.

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St. Stephen's Cathedral (Stephansdom) St. Stephen's Cathedral (Stephansdom) free

Towering above the streets of the Innere Stadt , this massive cathedral is one of the true centerpieces of Vienna. St. Stephen's has stood in this very spot since the early 13th century (having replaced an even earlier church), but little remains of this Romanesque construction aside from the Riesentor (Giant's Door) and the Heidenturme (Towers of the Heathens). The Gothic structure standing today was built in the early 1300s. It was here that Mozart was married to Constanze Weber in 1782, and it was here that the great composer's funeral was held in 1791. Despite parts of it being heavily damaged by fire in the final year of World War II, it was painstakingly repaired. Today this stunning cathedral remains an active house of worship, a national icon and a top tourist attraction.

After you've toured the main section, head underground to the catacombs where you'll find the tombs of members of the Habsburg royal family, along with various cardinals, archbishops and victims of the Great Plague of Vienna. Before you leave, you should climb the 343 steps to the top of the South Tower, from where you'll be treated to a spectacular view. Or use the elevator to reach the lookout terrace at the lower, never-completed North Tower, which is also home to the largest church bell in Austria, known as Pummerin. Visitors call this one of those "must-visit" attractions in Europe, praising the gorgeous church and its surroundings.

Museum of Fine Arts (Kunsthistorisches Museum) Museum of Fine Arts (Kunsthistorisches Museum)

The works at the Kunsthistorisches Museum , or Museum of Fine Arts, range from ancient Egyptian and Greek objects to masterpieces by numerous European masters, including Titian, Velasquez, Van Dyck and Rubens. In fact, the collection here is so extensive that many people say the walls of the Hofburg Palace look bare in comparison. The building itself, which opened to the public in 1891, impresses travelers as well; its facade features ornate sculptures.

Recent travelers appreciated the wide range of work on display at this museum and note just how large the building is and how much art is held within. A few suggested breaking up the day with a quick cup of coffee at the on-site coffee shop, which is in the museum's beautiful domed hall.

Belvedere Palace (Schloss Belvedere) Belvedere Palace (Schloss Belvedere)

If you can't get your art fix at either the MuseumsQuartier or the Kunsthistorisches Museum , you're sure to find satisfaction at the Belvedere. There are actually two palaces here – separated by an ornate 17th-century French-style garden – which some say are among the best examples of Baroque architecture in the world. Formerly home to such notable Austrian figures as Prince Eugene of Savoy and Archduke Franz Ferdinand, the buildings now house an outstanding array of Austrian art from such renowned artists as Gustav Klimt (including his famous painting "The Kiss"), Egon Schiele and Oskar Kokoschka. It's in the Upper Palace that you'll find works by these and other artists from the permanent collection, while the Lower Palace houses temporary exhibitions. A third, modern building, Belvedere 21, acts as an arts and performance venue and is located just across the main road. It has just a few exhibits on at any given time. Travelers love the gardens, ornate buildings and array of paintings on display at this attraction. Many warn of large crowds.

The Belvedere sits just southeast of the Innere Stadt,  between the Wieden and Landstrasse districts. It is open every day from 9 a.m. (Upper Belvedere) and 10 a.m. (Lower Belvedere) to 6 p.m. When purchased online, entrance to both sites costs 24 euros (about $26) for adults. Youths 18 and younger always explore for free. You should definitely book tickets online, as entry is limited by time slots and these do sell out. For Belvedere 21, you only need to specify the day of your visit, not the time. Guided tours are available and there are a variety of combo ticket packages available as well. For more information, visit the palace's website .

Leopold Museum Leopold Museum

Part of the excellent MuseumsQuartier Wien , the Leopold Museum houses one of greatest collections of Austrian art anywhere in the world. Along with major works by the likes of Gustav Klimt, Oskar Kokoschka, Richard Gerstl and Max Oppenheimer, the Leopold Museum includes the world's largest and most comprehensive collection of works by Egon Schiele.

The main part of the museum is the permanent exhibition, Vienna 1900, which takes you through the most important artistic developments and changes in Vienna around the end of the 19th and beginning of the 20th centuries, the last decades of the Habsburg rule. If you only have time to visit one museum to see works from the Viennese Secession (the local style of art nouveau), the Leopold Museum gives the best overview. Visitors commented on the exceptional quality of the artworks on display, the clear and spacious layout of the museum, and the pleasant café.

Austrian National Library Austrian National Library free

On one side of the Hofburg 's Neue Burg wing, and entered off Josefsplatz, is the Austrian National Library. The main reason to come here is the spectacular State Hall ( Prunksaal ), built for Emperor Charles VI in the 1720s, as the former Court Library. The State Hall was painstakingly restored in 2022.

Forget any ideas of what a library looks like – the Prunksaal is a baroque masterpiece. Some 80 meters (around 262 feet) long and 20 meters (about 66 feet) high, the State Hall is lavishly decorated with stucco, marble and gilding. A statue of Charles VI stands in the center of the hall, likely the work of Venetian sculptor Antonio Corradini. There are more than a dozen other statues in the hall of Austrian dukes and Habsburg rulers, by the Strudel brothers (one of whom, Paul Strudel, also worked on Vienna's Plague Column or Trinity Column, erected as a memorial after the Great Plague in 1679). The hall also contains four enormous Venetian globes. Perhaps most impressive however is the soaring oval dome, 30 meters (98 feet) high and decorated with breathtaking frescoes by the Habsburg court painter Daniel Gran, whose other work includes frescoes at the famous Klosterneuburg Abbey.

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Museum Judenplatz Museum Judenplatz

U.S. News Insider Tip: Make a point of visiting the excellent Sigmund Freud Museum, housed in Freud's former apartment and practice. It's less than a mile north of Judenplatz. – Rudolf Abraham

Judenplatz earned its name back in the 13th century when it was first designated as the Jewish Ghetto. For two centuries, this neighborhood remained the epicenter of Jewish life in Vienna, an identity that still lives among the exhibits found at the Museum Judenplatz. This small yet effective branch of the Jewish Museum Vienna (located a little south of Judenplatz) details the role Viennese Jews played in the development of city life and the persecution and expulsion of the Medieval Jewish community on the 1420s.

Café Central Café Central

One of the most famous coffee houses in Vienna, Café Central was established in 1876. Right up until the eve of the Second World War, this landmark spot was a favorite meeting place of Vienna's poets and intellectuals (many of whom were Jewish). Sigmund Freud and some of Austria's most famous writers including Stefan Zweig, Peter Altenberg and Arthur Schnitzler – not to mention Russian revolutionary Leon Trotsky – frequented the cafe's tables. Given its former clientele, you can guess the cafe is an incredibly grand and atmospheric place – not somewhere you order a coffee to-go. Café Central occupies the ground floor of a magnificent building, awash with ornate decoration and Italian flourishes, which was originally home to the stock exchange and central bank.

Along with plenty of delicious cakes and pastries, Café Central serves classic Austrian dishes such as Wiener schnitzel and Tafelspitz (boiled beef in broth). Try the house sandwich (organic turkey-ham and mozzarella, served warm). They also have some vegetarian and vegan dishes on the menu. Recent travelers commented on the beautiful setting, impeccable coffee, top-notch service and excellent pastries.

Naschmarkt Naschmarkt free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Along with all the food stalls and multiple options for late night or Asian-infused dining, the Naschmarkt area is one of the city's best for LGBTQ+-friendly bars. – Rudolf Abraham

Every Monday through Saturday, hundreds of vendors flock to this vibrant market in the Mariahilf District – located just south of the Ringstrasse – to sell fresh fruit and vegetables, meat, dairy products and other local food items. This open-air extravaganza, Naschmarkt, is considered one of the largest of its kind in Austria, and it's a great intro into everyday life in Vienna. There has been a market here since at least the late 18th century. In addition to the food stalls, you'll find small eateries and cafés throughout.

House of Music (Haus der Musik) House of Music (Haus der Musik)

Vienna has long been a musical epicenter. It was here that renowned composers, such as Mozart, Beethoven, Haydn, Mahler, Bruckner and Strauss lived, composed and performed at various points in their careers. If this history entices you, you must visit the House of Music ( Haus der Musik ) during your time in the city. This small but fascinating museum showcases the works of Vienna's elite musicians with displays featuring manuscripts and sound bites. Exhibits also explain the evolution of sound and the mechanics behind our ability to hear. Plus, there's an entire floor dedicated to the Vienna Philharmonic where you can even use a virtual wand to conduct the musicians. (But be careful: If you mess up they may ridicule you!) It's a great place to visit with kids, too. The facility also hosts a variety of concerts.

Travelers say if you're a classical music fan (or even a fan of the science of sound), a visit to the House of Music should be a priority. They also enjoy all the interactive elements.

St. Peter's Catholic Church St. Peter's Catholic Church free

St. Peter's Catholic Church ( Peterskirche ), which stands in the heart of the Inner Stadt close to St. Stephen's Cathedral , is one of most outstanding examples of baroque architecture in Vienna. Consecrated in 1733, it was built on the site of an earlier, Romanesque church first mentioned in the 12th century, which was destroyed by fire in the 1660s. It, in turn, probably stood on the site of an even earlier church, which sat upon the site of Roman Vindobona. Today's church makes up for its relatively compact size with its soaring dome and exceptionally lavish decoration.

The richly decorated interior features a gilded pulpit by Matthias Steinl (one of the leading baroque artists on Austria), and a magnificent baroque organ (with more than 2,000 pipes). The show-stealer however is the dazzling fresco cycle beneath the dome, the work of Johann Michael Rottmayr. Outside the church there's a relief from 1906 depicting the legendary founding of the church by Charlemagne. Travelers commented on the beauty of the decoration, and the surprising opulence of the interior compared to the relatively simple exterior. Stepping into the church always comes as a rather breathtaking surprise.

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Vienna's Tiergarten Vienna's Tiergarten

It began in 1752 as an exotic menagerie amassed by Franz Stephan, the husband of Maria Theresa (the only female Hapsburg ruler) and the country's Holy Roman Emperor. Today, Vienna's Tiergarten (also known as Schönbrunn Zoo or Vienna Zoo) is the oldest zoo in the world, home to about 750 animal species (around 8,500 animals total) ranging from tigers to lemurs – and most famously, pandas (it's one of the few zoos outside China to have these rare animals). The zoo hosts special tours and there are daily feedings that visitors can watch, with animals like orangutans, elephants, penguins and otters.

Since its founding, Tiergarten has undergone many a renovation to bring it up to par with modern facilities. Travelers say that while the cost of admission is on the pricey side, it's worth it to see the variety of animals and impressive facilities at this zoo.

Vienna State Opera (Staatsoper) Vienna State Opera (Staatsoper)

U.S. News Insider Tip: Don't miss the landmark Secession Building, just a short walk from the Vienna State Opera. Head down to the basement to see Klimt's amazing "Beethoven Frieze," while listening to Beethoven's "Ode to Joy" from the Symphony No. 9 on headphones provided. – Rudolf Abraham

Since 1869, the Vienna State Opera has been the city's premier venue for the performing arts and a major focal point of Viennese life. One of the world's greatest opera houses, the Staatsoper still hosts top-notch performances (and each seat has its own small subtitles screen), and you can also tour this magnificent building on a guided tour. The 40-minute tours run every day (times vary depending on the performance schedule) and allow you a behind-the-scenes look at this beloved landmark. Tours come highly recommended by previous visitors. 

Burggarten Burggarten free

Behind the Neue Burg wing of the Hofburg , the Burggarten is a charming city park. It was originally created in the wake of Napoleon's withdrawal from Vienna in 1809 as a private garden for the imperial family. Completed around 1819, it wasn't opened to the public until 100 years later – in 1919 – following Emperor Franz Joseph I's death in 1916.

As well as being a beautiful and peaceful place to take a break from sightseeing, the Burggarten is also home to the Mozart Monument. Unveiled in 1896, this famous monument originally stood in front of the Albertina Palace, but was damaged by bombing during World War II. After restoration it was relocated to the Burggarten. The monument is a top Vienna photo-op, especially in spring when the flowerbeds are in bloom, which are shaped like a large treble clef. Other statues in the Burggarten include one of Emperor Franz Josef.

Spanish Riding School Spanish Riding School

The Spanish Riding School, part of the Hofburg Palace complex, is one of the most celebrated riding academies in the world. It carries on a 450-year-old tradition of classical dressage (meticulous, careful training to achieve almost balletic movements and perfect harmony between horse and rider), featuring the beautiful white Lipizzaner horses (the younger animals are grey) which go through years of training. The stud farm is located in the village of Piber, southwest of Vienna.

Performances and Morning Exercise sessions take place in the Winter Riding School – built under Charles VI in the 1720s and 1730s – and are accompanied by classical music. During a Performance, you can see the horses and riders at the epitome of their technique, whereas the Morning Exercises are training sessions and include younger horses as well as the fully trained stallions. Guided tours are also available. Regular tours take in all the main areas, including the stables and the Winter and Summer Riding Schools, and last an hour. The 80-minute Architectural tours explore the baroque style of the Winter Riding School and takes you up into its elaborate, wooden roof structure.

Maria-Theresien-Platz Maria-Theresien-Platz free

Named after the Empress Maria Theresa, this large square framed by grand architecture lies between the Hofburg Palace and the MuseumsQuartier , alongside the busy Ringstrasse. The only female Habsburg ruler, Maria Theresa was empress from 1740 to 1780, a challenging period for the Habsburg monarchy which began with territorial losses and political conflict. However, Maria Theresa proved herself by leaving the empire a stronger and more stable one than the one she inherited. During her lifetime she instigated a wide range of reforms from agriculture and education to medicine and the military.

A huge monument to Empress Maria Theresa stands at the center of the square, dating from the late 19th century. The prominent neo-baroque sculptor Kaspar von Zumbusch spent more than a decade working on the project. The bronze sculpture of the Empress sits enthroned on top of a granite plinth and pedestal, above sculptures of her advisors, administrators, military commanders and figures from the sciences and arts (including Mozart as a child). The imposing monument stands more than 62 feet (the figure of Maria Theresa alone is nearly 20 feet tall). Travelers say the structure is beautiful but you won't need much time for the square itself.

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Things to do in Vienna, Austria: 32 Best Attractions

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Are you wondering what to do in Vienna? Known for its imperial palaces and stunning architecture, Vienna is a wonderful European city. Located on the East of the Danube River, there are so many wonderful things to do in Vienna.

It’s the perfect city break and can also be easily visited as part of a multi-city trip around Europe. Known for being rather a fancy city (and certainly not the cheapest place to visit in Europe!), Vienna is full of classic history, music, museums and rather an upscale charm.

In fact, it wouldn’t look entirely out of place in a fancy, period drama!  

However, once you look past the royal exterior, Vienna hides a vibrant social life, and stylish dining scene. Plus, having topped every quality of life survey in recent years, it has some extremely cheerful locals!

My favourite Travel resources for Vienna

✅ H ere,’s the best hotel in Vienna ✅ Don’t miss t he Giant Ferris Wheel Ride and the Upper Belvedere Palace ✅ Don’t forget your travel insurance

32 Best Things to Do in Vienna

So, if you’ve been thinking of visiting the Austrian capital, what are you waiting for? Here are the 23 best things to do in Vienna. I’ve also included the prices of each attraction, so you know exactly what your trip to Vienna will cost.

1. Admire St. Stephen’s Cathedral

Cost : Free to enter, but €6 to enter the catacombs, €6 to climb the North Tower, and €5.5 to climb the South Tower, per adult.

Easily one of the most beautiful buildings in Vienna, St Stephen’s Cathedral sits in the heart of Stephensplatz. It’s actually the most important church in the whole of Austria, and this is no surprise considering its size and beauty.

Inside the cathedral, you’ll find a few smaller chapels, 18 alters, tombs and catacombs, which should hopefully give you an indicator of its impressive size! The bell in the tower is also the second-biggest free-swinging chimed church in all of Europe! 

St Stephen’s Cathedral is decorated with a beautiful tiled roof mosaic – a stunning example of Gothic and Romanesque architecture. The building has been standing for over 700 years and Mozart actually held his wedding there in 1782!

As such an incredible building, you won’t want to miss St Stephen’s Cathedral on your Vienna itinerary and it’s definitely one of the best things to do in the city.

✅ Book tickets for St Stephen’s Cathedral

2. Visit Rathaus, Vienna’s Impressive Town Hall

Cost : Free

As Vienna is so full of impressive buildings, it’s not entirely shocking that their city hall is a lot more beautiful than your average structure. The city’s town hall is located on Rathausplatz and is another stunning example of the late Gothic style.

Built in the 1800s, Rauthus is a similar style to the town hall in Brussels . The bottom of the building is covered in magnificent archways. The top has 5 towers, the middle being the tallest and topped with a signature Rauthausman figurine.  

If you’re interested in knowing more about the history of Rauthus, there are guided tours available on certain days. This is extremely worthwhile for anyone curious about the architectural style, as well as the building’s impressive past. 

3. Hofburg Palace

Cost : €17.50 per adult

A little bit like going to France and not seeing the Eiffel Tower , you can’t visit Austria and not see the Hofburg Palace. Another of Vienna’s most incredible structures, the imperial palace used to be the heart of the Austro-Hungarian Empire.

Even today it is still in use and serves as the headquarters of the country’s presidency. But you can still look around, as it’s been expanded a lot to include many fascinating museums. 

As well as the Palace’s beautiful interior, the exterior is just as stunning as traditional 13th-century Baroque architecture. Located right across from Heroes’ Square (Heldenplatz), the palace will cost you €17.5 to enter.

For that price, you’ll get, a guided tour, entrance to the Museum, the Imperial Apartments and the stately Silver Collection. It’s a pretty impressive sight and one of the top things to do in Vienna.

✅ Book tickets for the Hofburg Palace

4. Visit the Schönbrunn Palace

Cost : €29 per adult

One of the most famous palaces in Vienna, a trip to the Schönbrunn Palace, should be high on your Vienna itinerary. Located on the outskirts of the city, the Schönbrunn Palace is a wonderful sight and well worth the journey.

You can easily reach it either via train or on the Vienna Sightseeing Bus if you have a ticket.  

Previously the residence of both the Habsburgs and Sissi the Empress, the imperial palace has been standing since the 1600s and holds major cultural importance in Austria.

Another example of Baroque architecture, the palace is ginormous! It actually has 1441 rooms inside as well as the magnificent gardens. 

There is so much more than just a palace here and you can easily spend an entire day wandering the Schönbrunn Palace complex. Enjoy a tour through the main palace and see how the royalty used to live. Also, don’t forget to explore the impressive museum too! 

Top Tip: Try to get here early. This place can get incredibly busy; we made the mistake of getting there at midday and spending a long time queuing.

✅ Book tickets for the Schönbrunn Palace

5. Visit the Kunsthistorisches Museum

Cost : Fron €15 per adult

The Kunsthistorisches Museum is a magnificent institution that showcases the rich cultural heritage of Vienna.

Housed within a beautiful, neo-Renaissance palace, the museum is as much a masterpiece outside as it is inside. It’s mostly known for its exceptional collection of art and historical artefacts. 

Founded in 1891, it boasts an extensive array of artworks from various renowned artists such as Rembrandt, Vermeer, and Titian. The museum’s stunning architecture, with its grand marble columns and intricate details, is pretty breathtaking.

Inside, you’ll find a striking interior, adorned with grand marble columns, intricate stucco work, and a magnificent central dome, that enhances the overall experience.

The Kunsthistorisches Museum is one of the best things to do in Vienna, especially for art enthusiasts and history buffs.

✅ Book tickets for the Kunsthistorisches Museum

6. See Vienna State Opera House

Cost : Tickets to shows cost between €5 and €150

Even if you’re not personally into Opera, you won’t want to miss this impressive building! The city is well known, not just for its historic buildings, but for its music culture and events. The opera is a delightful and unique combination of sound and performance. 

As well as the obvious class of the Opera House, the architecture of the building is just as impressive. Inside, you’ll find deep red velvet chairs decked out with ornamental gold trimmings. The exterior is encircled with arched windows in a Neo-Renaissance style and finished with a classic European bright green roof.  

If you do fancy watching a performance, then I seriously recommend you book your tickets in advance. Because of the popularity of the Opera, tickets can sell out well before the date, so check what’s on before you travel.

If Opera isn’t your thing, then I still recommend looking inside. You can book a 40-minute guided tour of the Opera House where you will learn a lot about the history of the performances as well as the importance of the art culture in Austria. 

✅ Book a concert in the Vienna Opera House

7. Visit the Sisi Museum

Cost : € 17.50 per adult

A dedication to the life of the renowned Empress Elisabeth of Austria, affectionately known as ‘Sisi’, this museum offers a unique glimpse into the enigmatic world of one of the most iconic figures in European history.

The museum is almost like a walk round of her life. You can explore the elegant rooms and personal possessions of the empress, and gain insight into her complex character, love for poetry, and enduring fascination with travel and the arts.

The Sisi Museum also contains personal artefacts, including her gowns, letters, and even the very instrument she used for her daily exercise routines.

✅ Book tickets to the Sisi Museum

8. Ride Vienna’s Giant Ferris Wheel

Cost : €13 per adult

One of my favourites and definitely the best things to do in Vienna is to take a trip to Prater Amusement Park to ride the Giant Ferris Wheel. The wheel is to Austria what the London Eye is to London . Originally built in 1897, it’s also a wonderful flashback to the past. 

Spending a day at the amusement park is so much fun. The park itself is free the enter and you have to pay for each ride and activity separately.

However, if you have purchased the Vienna Card (which I highly recommend), then you’ll get the Ferris Wheel for free. As well as being one of Vienna’s most iconic landmarks, you won’t be able to resist the charm of the old wheel. The views over the city from the top are well worth the ride.

✅ I recommend purchasing the Vienna Card

9. Climb the South Tower

Cost : €3.50 per adult

Located within St Stephen’s Cathedral, this historical tower is a must-see if you enjoy panoramic city views. This Gothic masterpiece, part of the St. Stephen’s Cathedral complex, is an architectural gem that dates back to the 15th century.

Rising 68 meters high, it provides a striking view of Vienna’s skyline and offers visitors the opportunity to climb its 343 steps to take in panoramic vistas of the city. As well as the South Tower, you can also climb the neighbouring North Tower for equally magnificent views.

10. See ‘The Kiss’ at Belvedere Palace

Cost : €16.70 per adult

Austria’s most famous work of art, The Kiss is a masterpiece by Viennese painter Gustav Klimt. Displayed inside the Upper Belvedere’s galleries , which are also home to many other fabulous artworks, the painting is a must-see in Vienna and well worth a spot on your itinerary. 

‘The Kiss’ depicts a couple embracing in a meadow of flowers, and the background is a beautiful gold infused with patterns of an almost mosaic effect. A beautiful piece of art, you can also learn even more about the history of Klimt’s work with a private tour, to explore the painting in more depth.

✅ Book tickets to the Belvedere Palace

11. Explore Vienna’s Coffee Houses

Cost : Depends on how much coffee you want 😀

If you don’t try Viennese coffee whilst in Vienna, then you are seriously missing out. A visit to a traditional coffee house is easily one of the best things to do in Vienna.

Finding a coffee house in the city won’t be difficult and, if your accommodation doesn’t have breakfast, consider making this priority number one on your first day.  

Vienna’s coffee houses have created more coffee varieties than anywhere else on the planet! Order a ‘Schwarzer’ for a black coffee, a ‘Brauner’ for a black coffee with milk or a ‘Melange’ for coffee with cream.

Coffee shops are also the perfect place to sit back and enjoy the atmosphere and people-watch. Also, with all the great foods in Vienna to try, don’t pass up on a slice of cake, sausages or strudel to go with your coffee. 

12. Visit the Austrian National Library

Cost : €10 per adult

If you’re a literary addict, the Austrian National Library will be one of the best things to see in Vienna. Established in the 18th century, this magnificent institution is housed within the Hofburg Palace. It’s one of the most significant libraries in Europe. 

Boasting an extensive collection of over 12 million items, it includes rare manuscripts, historical books, maps, and an impressive array of musical scores.

The library’s grandiose architecture and ornate interiors provide a breathtaking setting for visitors, who can explore its various exhibition rooms, including the Prunksaal, a stunning Baroque State Hall.

13. Explore the Schönbrunn Zoo

Cost : €26 per adult

The oldest zoo in Europe the Schönbrunn Zoo is one of the best things to do in Austria. Created in 1752, Tiergarten Schonbrunn, or Vienna Zoo, can be found on the grounds of the Schonbrunn Palace.

It was originally a royal menagerie to house the Emperor’s collection of exotic animals but had since then branched into an impressive and caring zoo.  

You won’t need to be an animal expert to realise that the animals that live here are under exceptional care. You’ll find pandas, giraffes, sloths elephants and many other animals around the zoo and also plenty of splashes of history in the original building located on the grounds.

That combined with the more modern statues, makes Vienna Zoo a very serene and peaceful place to explore. 

✅ Book tickets for the Schönbrunn Zoo

14. Visit the Leopold Museum

Located in the city centre, the Leopold Museum is one of the best places to visit in Vienna if you love art.

Named after Rudolf and Elisabeth Leopold, whose extensive collection forms the museum’s core, it is a fantastic collection of Austrian art from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. 

The museum’s stunning architecture complements the artistic treasures perfectly, and you can easily spend your time admiring the building as well as the artwork.

The Leopold Museum is particularly known for its collection of works by the Austrian artist Egon Schiele. But it also houses masterpieces by Gustav Klimt and other prominent figures of the Viennese Secession.

15. Eat Vienna’s Famous Desserts 

Cost : Depends on how much cake you want!

Whenever I travel somewhere new, I always make a point of trying the local cuisine. In Vienna, that is definitely not hard as the city has some pretty famous and delicious desserts.

Both Sachertort and Strudel should be high on your Vienna food bucket list. Luckily, you’ll be able to locate both pretty easily. 

Sachertort is a chocolate tart, filled with apricot jam with a scrumptious chocolate topping. It is amazing and you really can’t leave Vienna without trying a slice.

The thing that shocked me most about traditional Vienesse dishes, however, was the range of strudels that you can find.

I was used to apple strudel – living in the UK , you can also find it all over the place. It’s nowhere near as flavoursome as in Austria, however. But I wasn’t expecting there to be cheese strudels, vegetable strudels, plum strudel, sour cherry strudel and so many other delicious flavours.

It certainly made choosing just one piece that little bit trickier. So, if you’re going hunting for strudel, just be warned, you may end up with a lot more than one slice! If you really can’t choose, you could even go for a strudel-tasting show at the Schonbrunn Palace.

16. Visit the Albertina Museum

Cost : From €14 per adult

One of the most impressive art museums in Europe, the Albertina Museum is easily one of the best things to do in Vienna.

It’s known for its remarkable collection of art spanning from the Renaissance to the contemporary era, and, like many of the other museums on this list, it’s also housed in a pretty impressive building. 

The museum’s extensive holdings include a vast array of drawings, graphic art, and prints, showcasing the works of celebrated artists like Albrecht Dürer, Michelangelo, and Leonardo da Vinci.

In addition to its graphic art treasures, the Albertina Museum also hosts impressive rotating exhibitions featuring various art forms, from photography to modern and contemporary art.

✅ Book tickets for the Albertina Museum

17. Vienna’s Natural History Museum

Cost : €16 per adult

If you’re interested in the history of the planet and its creatures, be sure to give Vienna’s Natural History Museum a visit. One of the most important natural museums in the world, the large building stands proud near the MuseumsQuartier. 

The impressive museum contains over 30 million species and natural artefacts. It’s understandably one of the most popular museums in the country, but, if you purchased the Vienna Card , you can actually get in for free! Inside you’ll find 39 themed rooms and an incredible fossil display.

You’ll take a journey back to the Ice Age and see the largest meteorite collection in the world. Easily one of the best things to do in Vienna, if you’re a history buff or not, you won’t want to miss this! 

18. The Spanish Riding School

Cost : Between €14 and €31 depending on what you do.

One of the most impressive institutes for classical dressage in the world, The Spanish Riding School has been a tradition in Austria for hundreds of years.

Originally opened in 1735, the training of Lipizzaner horses has been going on for hundreds of years, since the Habsburg Monarchy. Today, you can actually go and watch demonstrations and sometimes training sessions as well . 

For anyone who loves horses and riding, this is a Vienna must see. Even if you’re not a fan, it would be a shame to miss this age-old tradition from your Vienna itinerary. 

✅ Book tickets to the Spanish Riding School

19. Visit one of Vienna’s Flea Markets

For a city full of beautiful imperial palaces and gorgeous buildings, there are also a surprising amount of flea markets in Vienna.

These markets, scattered throughout the city, offer a delightful blend of antiques, vintage goods, curiosities, and a wide assortment of secondhand treasures. 

The Naschmarkt, Vienna’s largest outdoor market, is particularly renowned for its variety of stalls, including ones selling antiques, artwork, clothing, and local food specialities. At the Brunnenmarkt, a more local and authentic market, you can find a wide range of items, from unique souvenirs to vintage finds. 

These markets are not only places to shop but also to experience Vienna’s local life and soak in its charming atmosphere.

Whether you’re a collector, a bargain hunter, or just an enthusiast of street markets, Vienna’s flea markets offer a fascinating and enjoyable way to explore the city’s vibrant culture.

20. Admire the View from Donauturm Tower 

One of my favourite things to do in a city is to find the tallest building and go right to the top. Donauturm Tower is a must see in Vienna. Standing at a whopping 252 meters tall, the tower makes it onto the top 75 tallest buildings in the world.

Easily visible against the fairly low Vienna skyline, the tower is a little outside the city centre but well worth the trip for the gorgeous views.  

If you visit at sunset, you’ll be able to watch the sun sinking dramatically behind the cityscape. Also included in the Vienna Card , a trip to the tower is one of the best things to do in Vienna. It will provide you with a completely different and beautiful view of this historic city.

21. Visit an Austrian Winery

Cost: Depends on which winery you visit.

With roughly 700 hectares of vineyards in Austria, it’s safe to say they know a thing or two about fine wine. A wonderful Vienna must see is to take a guided tour around one of its many wineries.  

An incredibly sophisticated thing to add to your Vienna itinerary, sipping on some of the delicious, fruity wines will definitely end your day on a high.

Weingut Cobenzl offers a great tasting tour for just €20. Esterházykeller, a small tavern in the heart of Vienna with a lot of historical flairs, is also known for its great wines. But if you are going on a tour, just be sure to work out the way back to your hotel before you arrive.

22. See the Sigmund Freud Museum

Cost : €14 per adult

This is a museum dedicated to the works of Sigmund Freud, the founder of psychoanalysis. Freud spend 47 years living at Berggasse 19 in Vienna’s 9th district until he exiled himself to the UK in 1938 to escape the Nazis.

Today, his former apartment has been turned into a museum showcasing his finest works. You’ll find original furniture and Freud’s personal collection of antiques, autographs and rare archive footage.

✅ Book tickets for the Sigmund Freud Museum

23. Eat your way through Naschmarkt 

Cost : Once again, it depends! 🙂

I cannot get enough of street food and street markets and Naschmarkt is a fine example of one. If you love freshly cooked food, enticing scents and mingling with the locals, then you’ll love it here too. 

Located on Wienseile Street, The Naschmarkt stretches for 1.5 miles. It also sells more or less every type of food you could possibly think of! Be sure to find a baked goods stall and try a different flavour of strudel! Also taste the Wiener schnitzel, Austria’s signature dish. 

23. Ride the Vienna Ring Road

Cost : €9 for the tram per adult

A wander around Vienna’s Ringstrasse is the easiest way to admire some of the city’s grandest buildings. It was created in the Habsburg Era to connect the city’s busiest suburbs.

Even today, the Ringstrasse still serves as the main road linking the city together. It’s the ideal spot to start your journey around Vienna.

You’ll pass buildings like the Opera House, the Hofburg Palace, the National Library, the Art History, Natural History and World museums, the Burggarten, Vienna’s Parliament, the Volksgarten, the Burgtheater and the Town Hall. 

25. Wander the Schönbrunn Gardens

Cost : Included in Palace ticket

One of the most peaceful things to see in Vienna, the Schönbrunn Palace Gardens are literally beautiful.

Extending a kilometre from the palace, you could easily spend hours wandering the gardens and admiring the beautiful displays. Along the way, you can also find a hedge maze and some pretty fountains. 

26. See the Hundertwasserhaus and Museum

Cost : Free to see the house, the museum is €12 per adult

This magical and unique building has such a funky and unusual design, making it one of the most unmissable things to do in Vienna. It’s an entirely different attraction for the stately royalty of the other imperial buildings in the city. In fact, it’s the opposite and has a much more colourful and carefree vibe. 

You can’t go inside the house unless you are a tenant, however, the museum is open to the public. It will give you a much clearer insight into the designer of both of these buildings: Friedensreich Hundertwasser.

Entrance to the museum is €11 per person but worth a visit if you’re interested in learning the history behind Vienna’s most playful buildings. 

27. Cruise the Danube Canal 

Cost : €28 per adult

There’s something magical about exploring the Danube from the water and it’s definitely one of the best things to do in Vienna. There are plenty of options too.

So, whether you’re looking for a lunch cruise , a romantic champagne cruise or a dinner cruise with live music , Vienna has something for everyone! For even more fun, you can actually rent out paddle boats from the Danube Island. Then have a day of fun wandering the waterways at your own pace. 

The river was used as inspiration for a lot of poetry and art and has such a peaceful charm. It’s the perfect way to spend a day in Vienna and even wandering the river banks on foot is wonderful.

✅ I recommend this boat cruise in Vienna 

28. Swim in Vienna’s Outdoor Pools

Cost : €6 per adult (on average)

One of the more overlooked and fun things to do in Vienna is to go for a dip in one of the outdoor pools. Open mainly from the middle of May until September, they can provide relief from the scorching summer heat.

Krapfenwaldl Pool on the edge of the Vienna woods is a gorgeous pool with a view and Schönbrunner also has a great open-air pool which was creatively restored in 1920. 

You can also head to Danube Island. For something with a little less chlorine, go swimming at a natural, freshwater beach.

It’s one of the few beautiful beaches in Europe that’s actually freshwater. A day trip to the shingle-covered bay is certainly one of the best things to do in Vienna. Once you’ve finished paddling in the waves, head to one of the island’s stunning seafood restaurants to indulge in the freshest catch of the day. 

29. Visit the MuseumsQuartier 

This is where you’ll find the best museums in Vienna, without a doubt. The MuseumsQuartier is on the border of the Imperial Old City. You’ll find just about every type of Museum imaginable from the impressive Leopold Museum to the MUMOK and Zoom’s Children’s Museum and many more.

It’s more commonly known as MQ and as well as all that, there’s also a selection of trendy bars, cafés and restaurants, a sculpture park and a mini-golf course.

Plus, about 5 5-minute walk from here, you’ll find the Kunsthistorisches Museum Wien and the Naturhistorisches Museum Wien, which focus on natural history and art in the city. A historical and cultural area of Vienna, the MuseumsQuartier is one of the best places to visit in Vienna. 

30. Visit Vienna’s Christmas Markets

Cost : Depends on how much gingerbread you eat!

Vienna doesn’t just have fantastic flea markets throughout the year. The Christmas markets in Vienna are also out of this world. Easily rivalling its neighbouring Christmas markets in Germany , Vienna’s markets are on an even larger scale.

They actually have some of the largest Christmas markets in Europe , and the biggest Christkindlmarkt at Rathausplatz welcomes over 3 million people each year! 

These markets are one of the best ways to embrace the festive spirit across Europe . You’ll find a large range of treats to indulge in including hot mulled wine, creamy hot chocolate, gingerbread cookies, wiener schnitzel, and plenty of different types of strudel.

It’s also a great place to buy unique gifts such as handcrafted ornaments, knitwear, and homemade candles.

Whether it’s the beautifully decorated stalls, the sparkling Christmas trees, or the vibrant ice-skating rinks, these markets are easily one of the best things to do in Vienna.

31. Take a Day Trip to Bratislava

Cost : Trains from €18

These two beautiful capital cities in Europe are just 1 hour apart by train. They are the closest two capitals in Europe. Therefore taking a day trip to Slovakia’s capital is well worth adding to your Vienna itinerary. 

Incredibly easy to get to, Bratislava is a beautiful city to explore. if you don’t fancy getting there yourself you can also book a tour and get there by boat . A much more relaxing way to arrive than on a train!

Peaceful, and much cheaper than Vienna, be sure to visit the classic red and white of Bratislava Castle. Then, wander the cobbled old town streets, see the beautiful Michael’s Gate, and explore the gothic architecture of St Martin’s Cathedral.

It’s a gorgeous city and well worth a trip. If you have longer in Europe, it would be well worth stretching your trip into a longer stay and exploring more of Bratislava’s hidden gems. 

✅ Book a train to Bratislava from Vienna

32. Take a day trip to Budapest

Cost : Trains from €54

Slightly further afield but no less worth a visit is the beautiful city of Budapest . The train journey between the two cities takes just over a few hours, making it a convenient day trip or a weekend getaway. Plus, Budapest is a much more affordable city break than Vienna, which is always a bonus!

Budapest, known as the “Paris of the East,” features stunning architecture, historic thermal baths, and the iconic Danube River dividing the city into Buda and Pest. You can even get a river cruise from Vienna to Budapest along the Danube if you’d like. 

Must-sees in Budapest include the Buda Castle, Matthias Church, and the stunning Hungarian Parliament Building.

Don’t forget to relax in one of the city’s famous thermal baths, like the Széchenyi or Gellért Baths and indulge in the delicious Hungarian cuisine, including goulash and chimney cake.

✅ Book a train from Vienna to Budapest

Where to Stay in Vienna

Vienna is a pretty big city, and there are lots of neighbourhoods that provide great accommodation.

But to explore many of the fun things to do in Vienna, you’re going to want to base yourself reasonably close to the centre of the city. Or near to public transport links that can get you into the centre of the city.

But, on the other hand, you don’t want to be paying cray city centre prices. So, here are a few of my top recommendations for where to stay in Vienna:

• £££ – Andaz Vienna Am Belvedere – A luxury 5* hotel offering elegant rooms with beautiful views over the city. You’ll also find a spa and wellness centre, an on-site restaurant, and a convenient location next to the Military History Museum.
• ££ – Austria Trend Hotel Bosei – Stylish hotel with a clean and comfortable design in the rooms and common areas. It is located further outside the city than the others on this list but within easy reach of the city centre by train. Perfect for golf lovers and there’s a course nearby.
• ££ – BASSENA Wien Messe Prater – This hotel features a funky design, colourful common areas, and a bright design in the rooms. Comfortable beds and a great breakfast are standard, and you’ll be within easy access to Prater Amusement Park.
• £ – prizeotel Vienna City – A super comfy, affordable hotel, located close to the main train station for easy access to the centre of Vienna. They offer a great breakfast and stylishly designed rooms.

✅ Discover more of the best places to stay in Vienna

Should I Visit Vienna in 2 days or 3 days?

Personally, I’d allow 3 days to see Vienna. In 2 days, you can get a feel for the city, and visit some of the top attractions, but you won’t be able to dive into the culture and explore a few secret spots in the Austrian capital.

Plus, in a city like this, the longer the better, as the longer you have, the more time you’ll have to spend exploring places like the Schönbrunn Palace, which is a little like the Vatican Museums in Rome and can easily take a whole day on its own to explore.

What is the Best Month to go to Vienna?

I much prefer travelling in the off-season myself, as during peak summer, Europe can get unbearably crowded. Not to mention, you’ll end up with higher prices for flights and accommodation, which nobody is going to want. As such, I recommend visiting Vienna in either April , May , late September, or October .

Final Thought on What to Do in Vienna

Vienna is a wonderful weekend city break in Europe . It’s packed with so many wonderful things to do. From visiting an imperial palace to eating wiener schnitzel at a local market and devouring freshly baked pastries, the city has a lot of choices.

The best of Vienna will be especially favourable to those who love art and culture, however. The vast amount of museums in the city could keep you occupied for days!

Overall, it’s one of the best cities to visit in Europe and I hope you enjoy this list of the best places to visit in Vienna.

My favourite tools for finding cheap travel

• SKYSCANNER – For amazing flight deals.
• BOOKING.COM – For affordable hotels and accommodation.
• SAFETY WING – For affordable, reliable travel insurance.
• DISCOVER CARS – For cheap car hire around the world.
• OMIO – For trains, coaches, and transfers.
• GET YOUR GUIDE – For attractions and tours.
• AIRALO – For a global eSim that keeps you connected.

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a small commission if you make a purchase. But, I only recommend products and companies that I use and love.

Alice Smith is a full-time travel blogger and content creator and the founder of Adventures of Alice. Following an unexpected redundancy from her career as a Content Marketing Specialist, she embraced her passion for exploration and turned her hobby of travel blogging into a full-time career.

From her roots near Cambridge, UK, she's ventured to over 30 countries since 2016. With a passion for the outdoors and a knack for finding the extraordinary in the ordinary, Alice is on a mission to show that budget travel can still be luxurious and that every destination, no matter how touristy, holds hidden gems.

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Home » Travel Guides » Austria » 15 Best Things to Do in Vienna (Austria)

15 Best Things to Do in Vienna (Austria)

The Capital of Austria is home to nearly one third of the county’s inhabitants and is its primary city. This metropolitan city hosts the United Nations organisation and is a major centre for Austria’s culture, economy and Politics. With many different names like the City of Music and the City of dreams, Vienna is renowned throughout the world and has a plethora of stunning historical buildings, gardens and establishments.

Ranked as one of the most liveable cities in the world with its inhabitants enjoying a high quality of life, Vienna is a haven in central Europe and remains a popular tourist destination. Listed below are the top must do’s in Vienna and should provide you with more than enough information to plan your trip.

Let’s have a look at the best things to do in Vienna :

1. Schönbrunn Palace

Standing since the 1600’s and holding a major role of cultural importance in Austria, the Schonbrunn Palace is a colossal 1441 room structure and complex that is the main tourist attraction in Vienna.

The Habsburgs have held residence here for many years and indeed emperors of Austria have been born in the palace too.

The palace itself is an immense building and designed in a Baroque style with a symmetrical main building that has hundreds of windows and statues on the rooftop.

Inside the palace are an assortment of rooms all fully furnished and decorated in the original style – You can enjoy a tour through the rooms and admire the sumptuous furnishings and see how Austrian royalty lived.

2. Hofburg Palace

The Hofburg Palace is another huge palatial complex that pays tribute to the power and influence of the Habsburg dynasty and served as the main winter palace for the rulers of the Austro-Hungarian Empire for hundreds of years.

Today the complex is home to offices of the president of Austria and serves as a presidential base.

The buildings have undergone many additions since their creation in the 13th century and the most impressive of which is the fabulous semi-circular Neue Burg.

Visitors can admire the beauty and style of the baroque architecture, take a tour through the imperial apartments or visit one of the detailed museums in the complex.

3. St Stephen’s Cathedral

This monolithic structure stands proud in the Stephensplatz and has been the most important church in Vienna and Austria since its construction.

The beauty of this building is undeniable and its huge tower dominates the Vienna skyline and stands as the tallest church tower in Austria.

Everything about St Stephen’s Cathedral oozes opulence – From the Romanesque and Gothic design of the exterior, to the dominating pointed tower, and the intricately decorated main roof complete with hundreds of coloured tiles forming an intriguing pattern.

Inside the church there are a total of 18 altars, several smaller chapels, and even some tombs and catacombs.

As an iconic building of Vienna, St Stephens cannot be missed!

4. Schonbrunn Gardens

Another exceptional part to the Schonbrunn Palace Complex and worthy of a separate visit in its own right, the gardens at Schonbrunn are simply magical.

The grounds of the park extend from the Palace for over a kilometre and you could spend hours walking through the various sections and displays.

You can walk through the Parterre and admire the uniform flower beds, or get lost in the beautiful hedge maze and labyrinth; Neptune’s fountain is a stunning piece of artwork, while there is even an artificial Roman Ruin complete with stone statues.

The crowning glory to all of this is the Gloriette which stands opposite the palace and features a pool and a classical colonnaded long building – Enjoy a drink here in the cafe or simple admire the views of the whole gardens in front of you.

Vienna is full of historical and significant architecture and the Town Hall located on Rathausplatz is a fine addition to this collection.

A later addition to the city, the Rathaus was constructed in the 1800’s in a Neo-Gothic style to accommodate the offices of the mayor for an ever increasing city population.

Similar in style to the town hall in Brussels, the Rathaus has five towers, the middle of which is the largest and is topped by the iconic Rathausman statue.

Guided tours are available of the inside of the Town Hall on certain days, and this is well worthwhile just to see the extravagant style of the rooms and what it must be like to work inside such a wonderful building.

6. Tiergarten Schonbrunn (Vienna Zoo)

Located within the grounds of the Schonbrunn Palace, the Tiergarten Zoo is the oldest zoo in the world and touts itself as a centre for species preservation and educational fulfilment.

Originally built as a menagerie, the Zoo has several original buildings from that era and mingled together with more modern structures, create a pleasant place to walk through.

The Zoo is home to a myriad of animals from the endangered giant Panda, to Giraffes, Sea Lions and Sloths – There are many talks throughout the day by experienced Zookeepers and even a simulated Amazon rainforest environment to walk through.

As Zoos go, the Vienna Zoo is one of the finest in the world and you can see the care the animals receive.

Tip : The Vienna Zoo is included in the Vienna PASS

7. Belvedere Museum

This gigantic palatial complex and gardens is split into Upper and Lower Belvedere and served as a summer residence for Austrian princes in the 1600’s.

The two palaces themselves feature amazing architecture and stand out royally in the gardens – Upper Belvedere has a detailed façade with green domed semi-towers while Lower Belvedere has a simpler design; both palaces face the stunning gardens.

Sights at the Belvedere Museum include the two palaces which hold a staggering collection of artwork and decorated staterooms and the expansive landscape gardens complete with pools and an Orangery.

8. Vienna State Opera

Opera and fine architecture is synonymous with Vienna, and the Vienna State Opera provides both in abundance.

This outstanding building is located centrally in the Innere Stadt district and is considered one of the finest Opera Houses in the world.

The exterior has a Neo-Renaissance style and is characterised by its many arches and arched windows, while the interior is extremely decadent and feels more like a palace than a place of musical celebration.

Daily guided tours are available which last around 40 minutes and give a good overview of the building.

If you wanted to see a live concert or Opera, you would need to research what is showing before your visit and buy tickets.

Available activity : Mozart & Strauss Concert at the Vienna State Opera

9. Vienna Natural History Museum

Housed in a sophisticated palace complex that is typical of the historical architecture in Vienna, the Natural History Museum has a huge collection of minerals, precious stones, meteorites, fossils, skeletons of animals, displays of various insects and mammals and even some taxidermy of extinct species.

With over 30 million objects the museum’s collection is one of the most important in Europe and new additions are arriving all the time.

This fascinating venue also has a digital planetarium where you can see intriguing films about the earth and its development.

Adults and children alike will love the sheer amount of information and eye-boggling displays in this epic museum.

10. Prater Amusement Park

What could be a more enjoyable way to experience Vienna than having a fun packed day at the Prater Amusement Park? The Wiener Prater Park was once a hunting ground that developed into a public space for food stands and small amusement stalls, it now hosts the impressive Amusement Park and is free to enter (You pay for the individual rides instead). Inside the park is a multitude of rides and stalls including a huge Ferris wheel, bumper cars, carousels and hair-raising rollercoasters.

There are also such things as shooting ranges, a wax works display and a light gauge railway to keep you entertained.

If rides and thrills are not your kind of thing, there are several restaurants and cafes in the park to sit back and enjoy the scenery in.

11. The Spanish Riding School

One of the finest institutes for classical dressage in the world, and a long-standing renowned tradition In Austria, The Spanish Riding School has been responsible for training horses in the art of dressage for hundreds of years.

The riding school as built during the Habsburg Monarchy and has stood ever since.

The building is open to the public and you can watch demonstrations and in some cases training sessions too.

For anyone who loves riding this is a must see in Vienna, while even for non-riders you can still appreciate the passion and love that is put into this art form.

Available activity : Spanish Riding School 2-Hour Morning Exercise

12. Donauturm (Viewing tower)

Listed in the tallest 75 free-standing towers in the world at a whopping 252m, the Donauturm stands as an observation tower in the Donaustadt district of Vienna.

The Donauturm stands out against the relatively low-rise skyline of Vienna and is easily recognisable; the structure contains radio transmitters and cell phone antennae, two revolving restaurants, and observation platform and even a bungie jumping gangway.

The tower provides a fantastic and different way to see Vienna and it is easy to see why it draws so many visitors.

13. Naschmarkt

Market places often define a city and give a good representation of its heritage and culture, they are engaging places to walk through and provide tourists with an authentic slice of local life.

The Naschmarkt is held on the Wienzeile street and stretches for around 1.5km, full of stalls selling anything from fresh fruit and vegetables to herbs, cheese and seafood.

The atmosphere, sounds, sights and smells are tantalising and the grand scale of the market make it famous world-wide.

14. Vienna Ring Road

The opulent Ring Road that surrounds the Innere Stadt district of Vienna was especially constructed in the 19th century after the removal of the city walls.

It features eclectic architecture and has many famous buildings lining its pavements.

The road itself is wide and is framed by the cities tram line which remains an important mode of transport, there are also sections lined with trees and the road proves a great cycle route.

It is well worth walking on parts of the ring road to see its importance and also the beautiful buildings that frame it.

15. Vienna Woods

At the foothills of the Northern Limestone Alps, the Vienna Woods lie to the west of the city and span some 45km.

Several rivers form the boundaries of the woods or Wienerwald and the area is popular with both Austrians looking to escape the city, and tourists looking to enjoy the beautiful Austrian countryside.

The woods are full of hidden gems from underground boat rides (The seegrotte) to Hunting Lodges and small villages untouched by the expanse of Vienna.

There are companies that provide half day tours, or you could simple do some research and form your own itinerary – The possibilities are endless in this alluring part of Austria.

15 Best Things to Do in Vienna (Austria):

• Schönbrunn Palace
• Hofburg Palace
• St Stephen’s Cathedral
• Schonbrunn Gardens
• Tiergarten Schonbrunn (Vienna Zoo)
• Belvedere Museum
• Vienna State Opera
• Vienna Natural History Museum
• Prater Amusement Park
• The Spanish Riding School
• Donauturm (Viewing tower)
• Vienna Ring Road
• Vienna Woods

82 Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Vienna, Austria

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Vienna is a real city of culture and it has given the world some of its greatest artists and thinkers. It has many impressive palaces, churches, theaters and museums but it is also a lively city with plenty of restaurants (and more than 15 Michelin Star-rated restaurants), bars and outdoor festivals in the summer months.

There are few cities in the world that can boast the musical legacy that Vienna can. Mozart, Beethoven and both Johann Strauss senior and junior lived and worked in the city. Their music is still alive through the city’s many orchestras, musicians and singers.

With many classical concerts, and Viennese balls taking place inside 19th-century palaces, you’ll surely be able to feel the essence of the music that Mozart, Beethoven, and other great classical composers once played in “The City of Music”.

Just outside the city, you can find ancient villages, traditional Austrian towns and breathtaking alpine scenery. It would be hard to visit Vienna and not be overawed by how grand it all is. Here are some things to do in Vienna .

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• Vienna tours

1 – Live out your royal fantasies at Schönbrunn Palace & Gardens

Schönbrunn Palace has to be the first stop for anyone visiting the city and one of the best things to do in Vienna. The palace gets its name from a spring that was found on the site by Emperor Matthias in 1612. The original building was a hunting lodge that grew over time to be the huge Baroque-style palace we see today.

Schönbrunn Palace is one of the biggest tourist attractions in the country. The house and its gardens are a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site.

Walk in the footsteps of Mozart … One of the most special experiences to enjoy at the former royal summer residence is classical music concerts at Schönbrunn Palace , performed daily inside the iconic Palace Orangery.

• Schönbrunn Palace tickets & tours

Read more about Schönbrunn Palace tickets price .

2 – See genuine masterpieces at Kunsthistorisches Museum

The Kunsthistoriches is Vienna’s Historic Art Museum. The museum has works and masterpieces by some of the best known European artists such as Rubens, Rembrandt, Raphael, Titian and Durer.

The building is located on Maria-Theresien-Platz opposite the Natural History Museum in near-identical buildings. It has an extensive collection of ancient art including Egyptian objects, carvings and even mummified remains. In the stairwell, you can see frescoes by Austrian artist Gustav Klimt.

• Kunsthistorisches Museum tickets

3 – Take a spin on the 126-year-old Wiener Riesenrad at The Prater

The Wiener Riesenrad is Vienna’s antique, giant Ferris Wheel and is an iconic landmark on the city skyline. Everyone who travels here should take a spin on it and grab some of the best views of the city.

It is at the entrance to the city’s famous amusement park, The Prater, which was donated to the people in 1766. You will find plenty of fun ways to pass the afternoon here if you like rides, arcades, ghost trains and games!

• Vienna Ferris Wheel tickets

4 – See the sights in the Historic Center of Vienna

The historic center of Vienna known as Innere Stadt, or inner city, is the area of the city within the area’s grand ring road, the Ringstrasse . Here you can find lively restaurants and cafes, museums and galleries.

You can visit major landmarks including St. Stephen’s Cathedral and the Hofburg palace or shop on the pedestrianized Kårtner Strasse. The Historic center is a recognized UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its magnificent architecture and skyline.

• walking tours in Vienna

5 – See dinosaur skeletons at the Natural History Museum

Vienna Natural History Museum  is considered one of the best in the world. Its impressive collection of artifacts, which includes dinosaur skeletons and ancient meteorites are housed in an equally impressive building.

The museum covers the history of life on Earth and even the planet itself and has a digital planetarium that shows a range of nature-related movies. This is one of the best attractions in Vienna.

6 – Telepathically communicate with the famous stallions at the Spanish Riding School

The Spanish Riding School upholds the dressage traditions of horse riding and the training of its famous Lippizaner horses. Visit the stables and Winter Riding School with its traditional architecture and grand views over the historic city.

For a relaxed equestrian experience, why not try a traditional “Lohnkutchen” horse-drawn carriage ride around the city? Visitors can even enjoy a selection of food and drinks while touring the sights.

• horse riding in Vienna

7 – See Picasso’s ‘Woman in a Green Hat’ on the walls of the Albertina Museum

As well as being a museum of fine art, The Albertina is also home to one of the most extensive print houses in the world. It has more than 65,000 drawings and over a million prints of old masterpieces.

The Museum itself is a great place to go see exhibitions of prints, drawings and photography. It has a permanent exhibition of modernist art in Austria covering Monet-Picasso. There are also grand historic rooms and apartments to visit within the building.

• Albertina Museum tickets

8 – Like a scene out of a fairytale, be balled over by the Hofburg Imperial Palace

Hofburg Palace has been the seat of power in the country since the 13th-century. It previously was the residence of the powerful Habsburg Dynasty who ruled Austria from the 15th-century. The Palace is now the home of the President of Austria.

You can visit the country’s impressive collection of Crown Jewels in the ancient Swiss Wing of the palace. Volksgarten park is a part of the palace grounds and has some interesting buildings including a smaller replica of the Temple of Hephaestus, the original of which is located in Athens.

• Hofburg Palace tickets & tours

9 – See over 1,000 treasures like the Royal Roman Crown at Kaiserliche Schatzkammer Wien

Located in the Hofburg Palace, the Imperial Treasury is a fascinating place to visit as it hosts some of the country’s most valuable possessions. It has royal and religious collections including crowns, jewelry, clothing and one of the world’s largest emeralds.

Amongst the objects, you can find a very old narwhal tooth which was thought to be a unicorn’s horn and declared an heirloom of the Habsburg’s.

• Imperial Treasury tickets

10 – Flitter among hundreds of butterflies at Schmetterlinghaus (butterfly house)

At the Schmetterlinghaus you can step out of the busy city for a while and find yourself in a peaceful and calm oasis. The Schmetterlinghaus is an enclosed garden that is home to tropical plants and 400 live butterflies.

This most colorful of living museums is a great place to unwind and observe the gentle butterflies. The Schmetterlinghaus is located about 200 meters from the Opera House in the Burggarten palace gardens.

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Experience a live concert by candlelight in Vienna

Catch live performances on piano, violin and cello of classical music and tributes to your favorite modern bands and musicians, from Queen to the Beatles and Taylor Swift to Imagine Dragons. Candlelight concerts take place in scenic venues across the city that don’t typically host concerts and events for an unforgettable backdrop to live renditions of your favorite tunes.

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11 – Visit the world’s oldest zoo at Tiergarten Schoenbrunn

The Vienna Zoo was established in 1752 and is the world’s oldest zoo that is still in operation. It is home to 8,500 animals from more than 700 species. Visitors can view giraffes from a raised gallery, see orangutans and Koalas, Siberian tigers and African elephants.

The most visited creatures in the zoo are its pair of Giant pandas named Yang yang and Yuan Yuan. The zoo’s architecture has a unique old-fashioned appearance which adds to the atmosphere of the place.

• Zoo Vienna tickets

12 – Visit local markets or try dishes like Wurstgulasch on a food tour

Are you curious about Viennese food? Most people have heard of schnitzel, which is the Austrian national dish, but don’t know much more about the country’s cuisine.

A food tour is a great way to learn about Vienna’s most popular delicacies. Venture into the city with a local guide to show you the way. Sample traditional starters, main courses and desserts at the best local eateries.

• food tours in Vienna

13 – See the Gustav Klimt collection at Belvedere Palace

Vienna’s Belvedere Palace is actually two large palaces, The Upper Belvedere and The Lower Belvedere and also includes extensive gardens. It was built by Prince Eugene in the early 1700s for use as a summer palace.

It now holds a huge collection of Austrian art from the middle-ages to the current era. Some of the most paintings are by Gustav Klimt including his famous works The Kiss and Judith.

• Belvedere Palace tickets & tours

14 – Explore more in less time on a segway tour

See the city in a fun and unique way on a segway tour. No experience is necessary, segway is an easy way to travel for everyone. You will be given a short lesson on riding the segway then hit the city streets.

Take a guided tour of the city passing all the major landmarks like the City Hall, Opera House and Hofburg Palace. A segway tour is a fun thing to do in Vienna.

• segway tours in Vienna

15 – Visit the turtles at Haus des Meeres – Aqua Terra Zoo

Haus des Meeres is a city center aquarium and zoo which is home to 10 thousand aquatic lifeforms. Visitors can see sharks, turtles and many fish as well as reptiles and monkeys spread out over 9 floors.

Haus des Meeres is unique in the fact that it is located in a World War II flak Tower. It has a restaurant, observation deck and wartime museum in addition to the zoo and aquarium.

Save on the city exploring with Vienna Passes

If you’ve got more sites to see in Vienna on your Bucket List than you can count, Vienna Passes are the way to go — and save! What’s the deal? Granting automatic access to any of the 50+ attractions and tours included in the pass, a total saving of up to 50% is calculated into the overall price, plus, there’s nothing better than skipping ticket queues.

Opt for an All-Inclusive Pass valid for one day only, or the Explorer Pass is for two city attractions, but this is valid for up to 60 days (perfect if you’re on a Euro tour).

16 – See the birthplace of Mozart on a Salzburg day trip

Salzburg is a historic city on the Austrian-German border. Its picturesque alpine setting and ancient buildings make it one of the best day trips from Vienna . It was the hometown of Mozart and visitors can see his birthplace and family home.

Salzburg is also the setting of the Sound of Music and you can take a guided tour around the most famous sites from the movie which includes the gardens of Mirabell Palace. Salzburg is a must-see for music lovers.

• Salzburg tours from Vienna

Hot tip: Check out our complete list of things to do in Salzburg .

17 – Admire the views from the Gothic tower of St. Stephen’s Cathedral

St. Stephen’s Cathedral is the main church of Vienna and is an icon of the city. It was built in the 12th century and has an unusual roof with tiles arranged into the pattern of a double-headed eagle. Inside you can find many elaborate features like the stone pulpit and the 15th-century St. Catherine’s Chapel.

You can take a guided tour which allows you to climb the tower, or “Steffl”, for a great view of the city. It also gives unique access to the cathedral’s catacombs, crypts and tombs.

• St. Stephen’s Cathedral tickets

18 – Only pay once and use a hop-on hop-off bus for sightseeing in Vienna the entire day

A hop-on-hop-off bus tour is a great way to explore the city and visit the main landmarks and attractions. Listen to the audio guide as you cruise through the city streets on one of the many city buses.

See the Vienna State Opera, Albertina, Natural History Museum and Schonbrunn Palace. Get on and off as many times as you like during the validity of the ticket. Tickets can be purchased for one to six-day durations.

• bus tours in Vienna

19 – Take a grand tour of the Esterházy Palace

Visit the family home of the Esterházy dynasty for over 300 years, absorb the ornate beauty, browse the private art collections, and learn about what life was like to live in an estate such as this late 13th-century palace.

Built originally from a medieval castle, with moats and grandeur, the castle originally belonged to previous owners including King Louis.

Make sure to book a tour that will take you through the Palace Chapel, to the Haydn Concert Hall, as you learn about the story of its residents.

• Esterházy Palace tours

20 – Check out art (for free) inside Stadtpark

Vienna’s City Park is a great place to take a picnic and sit and watch the people pass. The park is divided by the Wienfluss river and has a lake and numerous Art Nouveau and contemporary sculptures.

One of the most famous monuments is a gilded statue of the composer Johann Strauss II who is one of the cities most celebrated sons.

21 – Museophiles fall in love with over 50 at Museumsquartier

Museumsquartier is a huge space in Vienna devoted to arts and culture. It offers a venue for fine art, architecture and music as well as fashion, dance, theater, photography and street art. You can find almost all creative disciplines represented here.

The Museumsquartier encompasses over 60 institutions as well as studios and residences for artists. Among the institutions, there’s the Leopold Museum and the Modern Art Museum . It is a lively and inspiring place to visit and those with children will find plenty of interactive exhibits and workshops to get involved in.

Spot works by your favorite contemporary artists at Kunsthalle , particularly international creatives utilizing social and political contexts as subject matter. Offering multiple types of tours, the guided Curator’s Tour is one of the most special.

Are you obsessed with geometry and lines? Introducing the Austrian Museum of Architecture: the Architekturzentrum Wien . Exhibitions are relative to 20th and 21st-century architectural materials in Austria, and among its permanent collections, highlights are the Friedrich Achleitner and the Margherita Spiluttini Photo Archives.

• Museumsquartier tours

22 – See the city like a local on a bike tour

If you’re looking for an environmentally friendly way to see the city or just like to explore under your own steam, why not take one of the many bike tours? Take a long tour of the city and hit up all the major sites like the Imperial Palace, Austrian Parliament, Burgtheater and St. Stephen’s Cathedral.

Follow the Donau canal on the cities extensive bike paths past Urania Observatory and through the Stadtpark past the majestic Karlskirche church.

• bike tours in Vienna

23 – Immerse yourself in Vienna’s past with Time Travel

Step back in time with Time Travel Vienna , a unique multimedia experience that takes you on a journey through 400 years of Vienna’s history.

From the ancient Roman camp of Vindobona to present-day Vienna, you’ll witness World War II, meet the imperial family and fly over the roofs of Vienna.

With the latest entertainment technology, including 5D cinema and virtual reality experiences, it’s a thrilling adventure for the whole family.

• Time Travel Vienna tickets

24 – Learn about medieval life at the Jewish Museum Vienna

Vienna’s Jewish Museum tells the history of the city’s Jewish population from medieval times to the present day. Learn about the city’s rich Jewish history, customs and traditions in a series of permanent and temporary exhibitions.

See the foundations of an ancient synagogue on the site and see a 3D animation about Jewish life in Medieval Vienna. Learn how Vienna’s Jewish community rebuilt itself in the post-war years.

• Jewish Museum tickets

25 – Photograph one of the tallest churches in the world, Stock-im-Eisen at Stephansplatz

Stephensplatz is the central Square of Vienna and is named after the imposing St. Stephen’s Cathedral which takes center stage in the square. Around Stephensplatz you can find upmarket stores and the ancient street and marketplace Graben which is still in use today.

The Stock-im-Eisen, or staff in iron, is a local landmark near Stephansplats with mythical status. It is a section of a tree trunk with hundreds of nails hammered into it dating back to the 15th century.

26 – Meet the real Empress at the Sisi Museum

The Sisi Museum takes a deeper look at Vienna’s enigmatic Empress Elisabeth wife of Emperor Franz Joseph. The exhibit takes a sensitive look at the life of the Empress and try’s to define who was the woman behind the fairytale exterior.

With a collection of personal items such as clothes, jewelry, letters and replicas of some of her famous dresses, this is a must for all Sisi fans.

• Sisi Museum tours

27 – Travel to a new country in one day: Budapest

If you are visiting Vienna for a longer stay why not take a day-long excursion to Budapest? The picturesque Hungarian capital has a lot of historical sites to see as well as restaurants, shops and cafes to explore.

See the famous Buda Castle, home to generations of Hungarian kings, St. Stephen’s Basilica and Fisherman’s Bastion with its beautiful views over the River Danube. A guided tour ensures that you won’t miss the best of this fascinating city.

• Budapest tours

28 – Get up close and personal with the Danube during boat cruises

Inspiring composers, artists and musicians, boat cruises along the Danube River are second to none. In Vienna, Europe’s second longest river is split into four channels, and boating on the Danube Channel is very popular.

If boating is your middle name, enjoy a full-day cruise from Vienna to Dürnstein and Wachau on the MS Kaiserin Elisabeth II, all meals included for the ten-hour venture.

Set sail on an evening dinner cruise onboard the Dream Ship, relishing in a three-course meal under the stars. Some expeditions are accompanied by classic Viennese wine tavern songs.

• boat cruises in Vienna

29 – Touch the same walls as the famous composer at Mozarthaus

Music lovers and especially fans of classical music won’t want to miss the Mozarthaus museum. The Museum is located in the Vienna apartment where the composer lived from 1784 to 1787.

The museum focuses on the fruitful “Vienna years” of Mozart’s life in which he composed Le Nozze di Figaro. It contains documents, pictures and items related to the life of one of the world’s greatest composers.

• Mozarthaus tickets

30 – Cool off at Bohemian Prater

The Bohemian Prater is a small amusement park on the edge of Vienna. Its history extends back to 1882 and some of its attractions are over 100 years old. It has traditional rides many of which are specifically aimed at younger children.

The Bohemian Prater has a bunch of water rides that are great for those sunny days as well as a vintage carousel and historic roller-coaster.

31 – Get the best views of the city at the Donauturm

The Donauturm, or Danube Tower, is Austria’s tallest landmark at 252 meters tall. It opened in 1964 and though it hosts cell phone and radio masts, its primary use is an observation tower.

Visitors can ride the high-speed elevators to the observation decks to see impressive 360° views of the Vienna skyline. A revolving cafe and a restaurant can also be found on different levels of the tower.

• Danube Tower tickets

32 – Make your own bars and enjoy chocolate tastings at the Chocolate Museum Vienna

Feel like one of the golden ticket winners to Willy Wonka’s Chocolate Factory at the Chocolate Museum Vienna, with plenty of chocolate tastings and sweet workshops that go down a real treat!

Become a chocolatier for the day during a classic workshop, creating three of your own bars and learning about the different types of chocolate. Make 24 fanciful Viennese-style pralines during a praline workshop, or craft a Mozart Kugel (a chocolate-coated marzipan ball filled with nougat).

From the gigantic choccie statues to mirrors shaped as cacao pods to the black and white checkered floors, the shop interiors add all the fun.

• chocolate experiences in Vienna

33 – Visit Vienna’s first green museum at Kunst Haus Wien

Kunst Haus Wien is a museum and exhibition venue designed by influential Austrian artist Friedensreich Hundertwasser. The building is as much an art object as the works it holds and its distinctive wavy contours and painstaking mosaics are somewhat at odds with the city around it.

The Museum is dedicated to the works of the Hundertwasser and also displays exhibits of 20th and 21st-century photography exhibitions. It is also the city’s first green museum and focuses on sustainability in its operations.

34 – See the vistas of Melk Abbey & the Danube Valley on a day trip

Melk Abbey stands overlooking the beautiful Wachau Valley. The current Baroque abbey is built on a much older site that has been in use since the 13th century. As well as its attractive design the abbey houses numerous medieval manuscripts and decorative frescos.

Take a scenic bus and river cruise through the picturesque Wachau and Danube Valleys and into the wine-growing region of Wachau. See this land of ancient castles, villages and vineyards.

• Melk Abbey tours from Vienna

35 – Slide into ball pits at Family Fun

Family Fun is a large playground with indoor and outdoor areas for children of all ages. It has separate areas to play, jump, run and climb for older children and safe fun spaces for very small children to play.

A whole bunch of inflatables, trampolines, slides and play equipment is sure to keep the young ones happy as well as go-karts and games that even grown-ups can enjoy.

36 – Take a boat ride to Bratislava on a day trip

A day trip to Bratislava offers a great excuse to see more of the major European cities. The Slovakian capital sits between the borders of Austria and Hungary. The rolling hills and ancient vineyards of the surrounding area and its 18th-century architecture give it a historic but contemporary feel.

Bratislava is on the River Danube and a short boat trip from Vienna . Travel the slow way to really get a feel for the country. When in Bratislava, the ancient ruins of Devín Castle are a must-see.

• Bratislava tours from Vienna

Hot tip: Check out our list of things to do in Bratislava .

37 – See a whole day in 24 minutes at Miniatur Tirolerland

Miniatur Tirolerland is more than an amusement park, it’s a miniature world! Tirolerland has highly detailed models of trains, cars and attractions all in miniature format. Visitors can see a whole 24 hour day reenacted in miniature every 24 minutes.

Thousands of LED lights create dawn, daytime and dusk, which intrigues you to watch and explore as the miniature world comes alive around you. A visit to Minatur Tirolerland is a really fun thing to do in Vienna.

38 – From the first-ever locomotives to bicycles to automobiles, explore the Technical Museum Vienna

Also known as the Technisches Museum Wien, the Vienna Museum of Science and Technology is dedicated to all tech-driven and science-savvy exploits and developments of Austria, chronicling these over the last decades.

The all-white crisp spaces suit the museum’s objectives, and real-time items and objects are displayed categorically. These are a mix of historical commodities from centuries ago to innovative modern technologies.

Its permanent collections include ‘Everyday life & society,’ ‘Natural sciences & energy,’ ‘Transportation & mobility,’ ‘Information & communication’ and ‘Production technology.’

• Technical Museum Vienna tickets

39 – Visit the historic Central Cemetery (Zentralfriedhof)

Zentralfriedhof is not actually in the city center, rather it received its name because it is the most used cemetery in Vienna. It is actually the second largest cemetery in Europe by capacity. It is a resting place for over 2.5 million people, including some very famous local residents.

Four of the world’s most beloved composers are buried here, Beethoven, Schubert, Strauss and Brahms. Surprisingly, Zentralfriedhof is not actually that old and it first opened in 1874.

• Vienna Central Cemetery tours

40 – Walk through famous grave sites inside the historic Central Cemetery (Zentralfriedhof)

The Austrian National Library State Hall is not just any old library. The building is renowned for its impressive size and decoration as well as the works it holds. The State Hall is a grand building that was part of the Court Library.

It is nearly 80 meters long and 20 meters high with ornate frescos and decorations including four Venetian globes. The library has over 200,000 books and also puts on regular exhibitions.

41 – Where nothing is ever as it seems, visit the Museum of Illusions Vienna

Bring your camera (or fully charged mobile) and fool not just your own mind’s eye but your friends back home when you step inside the Museum of Illusions Vienna.

Over 15 attractions, or entire rooms, are set up inside, each themed differently and designed in such a way as to create optical illusions.

Walk up the side of a bedroom wall, serve your friend’s head on a dinner platter, see your face multiplied by ten and imagine life as a giant!

The Vortex Tunnel, Upside Down Room, Bottomless Pit, Kaleidoscope, Infinity Room and the Chair Illusion are a few examples of the features to discover inside.

• Museum of Illusions Vienna tickets

42 – Visit the Wachau Valley for wine tasting

The Wachau and Danube Valleys are the places to visit for wine tasting in Austria. The fertile valleys are home to steep vineyards which produce some of the country’s finest dry white wines.

There are numerous guided tours offered through the Wachau Valley region. Take in the scenic landscape of rolling hills, medieval villages and the majestic River Danube before stopping for lunch and tasting the best local wines.

• wine tours from Vienna

43 – See the unique design of Hundertwasserhaus

Hundertwasserhaus is an apartment block in the Landstrasse district of Vienna which was designed by famed local artist and architect Friedensreich Hundertwasser. The creator’s style is highly unique and features a prominent lack of straight lines, varied window sizes and wall textures.

In 1979, he was invited by the Mayor of Vienna to create a housing block based on his unique ideas. He submitted the design free of charge and it was built in 1983. Hundertwasserhaus features innovative ecological elements like a grassed living roof and is home to 250 trees and bushes.

44 – View the Astronomical Clock on a Prague day trip

When you’ve seen all there is to see in Vienna why not take a day trip to Prague. The Czech capital is another gem of a European city within a few hour’s drive of Vienna. This ancient city was the center of the Kingdom of Bohemia and it has buildings that date back thousands of years.

One of the most fun things to do in Prague is to visit the Old Town Hall and see the astronomical clock which was installed in 1410. It has been in almost continuous use since then and is thought to be the world’s oldest operating clock.

• Prague tours from Vienna

45 – Learn about the empire at Heeresgeschichtliches Museum

The Austrian Museum of Military History blends together technology, art, architecture and natural science to cover the country and its empire’s military history. Housed in the 19th-Century armory buildings, the exhibits show weapons, armored vehicles, planes, uniforms, battleships and historical photographs.

The museum covers the eras of the Habsburg Dynasty from the 1500s to the fall of the empire in 1945. This is a great place to visit for lovers of history.

46 – See the city from above on a helicopter tour

What better way to see the whole city than on a helicopter tour. Grab aerial views of the entire city on these scenic flights and get insights from the helicopter pilot and crew.

Get a unique view of local landmarks like the Greifenstein Castle ruins and Klosterneuburg Monastery. Pass Castle Kreuzenstein and see Europe’s largest wetlands at the Donau Auen. This is a seriously fun thing to do in Vienna!

• helicopter tours in Vienna

47 – One of the few places close by for hiking, trek the 484-meter-tall Kahlenberg Mountain

Kahlenberg Mountain is one of the most popular destinations to visit on a day trip from Vienna. It is located in the densely forested Vienna Woods and is easily reachable from the city by bus or car.

It is a beautiful spot to go hiking and you can get a great view of the entire city and parts of Lower Austria from Stefaniewarte tower at the peak.

• hiking tours in Vienna

48 – Bend your brains at the Sigmund Freud Museum

Sigmund Freud Is one of Vienna’s most famous sons. He created the field of psychoanalysis and his theories have shaped our understanding of the human mind and our behavior.

The Sigmund Freud Museum is located in his former home and office and contains collections and exhibitions related to his life and works. It also contains Europe’s largest Psychoanalytical Research Center and the Sigmund Freud Foundation Research Institute.

• Sigmund Freud Museum tickets

49 – Meet the stars at Madame Tussauds Vienna

A trip to Madame Tussauds is always fun. The Vienna branch has waxwork lookalikes of worldwide celebrities and local ones. Where else could you hang out with Empress Sisi and Mozart as well as Freddie Mercury, Angelina Jolie and Audrey Hepburn at the same time?

Travel to a Hollywood party, a Vegas chapel and the picturesque alps and enjoy the guided audio tour experience. A visit to Madame Tussauds is a fun thing to do in Vienna.

• Madame Tussauds tickets

50 – Revel in a night of Opera at the Renaissance Revival venue, Wiener Staatsoper

Fancy an evening of culture while you are visiting the city? Vienna State Opera puts on 300 performances a year. The building is home to the Vienna State Orchestra, State Ballet company and hosts the yearly Vienna Opera Ball.

It is a lively venue and its regular audience is not afraid to let the performers know if they are any less than perfect. Cut-price standing-only tickets are offered from eighty minutes before the shows.

51 – Follow in the sounds of Mozart with Classical Music Concerts

Hear the best of vienna music at the eschenbach palace.

Vienna is still considered the capital of classical music worldwide. A visit to the Eschenbach Palace is an unforgettable experience for music lovers. Enjoy an evening of Viennese music from Mozart, Schubert and Strauss performed by the Vienna supreme Orchestra.

Take in the beautiful surroundings of the Palace’s Golden Ballroom with its coffered ceiling, baroque decorations and fantastic acoustics. Classical music fans shouldn’t miss this.

• concerts at Eschenbach Palace

Catch a performance at Peterskirche

A version of Peterskirche or St. Peter’s Church has sat on the same spot in Vienna since the 4th century. The current building was completed in 1733 and is one of the most attractive Baroque churches in the city.

The Classic Ensemble Vienna puts on regular concerts in the church performing pieces by Mozart, Vivaldi and Beethoven. To hear this timeless music in such stunning surroundings is sure to be an unforgettable experience.

• concerts at St. Peter’s Church

Attend a Johann Strauss and Mozart Concert at Kursalon Palace

Prepare for an evening of Viennese classical music inspired by Mozart, the Austrian composer and conductor Johann Strauss, and a few other notable composers from Vienna.

See as the music and the Viennese Waltz comes alive inside the ornate 19th-century Kursalon Palace, with all its glitz and glamour, taking you back to the Golden Age of Viennese Operetta.

Before heading to the concert, make dinner plans at the palace’s restaurant, serving a menu of modern Austrian dishes and complete dinner courses. Concert tickets can be purchased online.

• concerts at Kursalon Palace

Russia or Austria? Look up to the striking green dome at Karlskirche

Karlskirche church is one of the most beautiful baroque churches in Vienna and can be found just outside the Innere Stadt. It has an unusual ellipsoid dome that is decorated with magnificent frescos by Johann Michael Rottmayr.

The interior of the church is quite stunning with marble pillars, ornate plasterwork and a dramatic altar to the Apotheosis of Saint Charles Borromeo. The famous Venetian composer Antonio Vivaldi was buried here in 1741 though it’s not certain where.

Make sure to check out the classical music concerts that take place inside, and feel transported to the times of Motzart surrounded by timeless baroque beauty.

• concerts at Karlskirche

Watch a performance of Viennese Music by the Hofburg Orchestra

The Vienna Hofburg Orchestra features at least 40 of the capital’s best musicians, performing “Viennese waltz and operetta music.”

Throughout the summer months, the orchestra holds regular weekly concerts at the Hofburg Palace, performing music by Mozart and Strauss. if you like classical music, why not include it in your calendar?

• Hofburg Orchestra in Vienna

Visit the Musikverein to see a concert

Vienna’s Musikverein is one of the city’s finest concert halls. It is home to the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra and is renowned for its outstanding acoustics. The Musikverein’s Great Hall seats 300 and is also known as the “Golden Hall” due to its ornate decorations.

Join the Vienna Philharmonic for an evening of music by Mozart including his concertos, symphonies and operas.

• concerts at Musikverein

Experience enchanting concerts at St. Anne’s Church

As if the beauty of Iglesia de Santa Ana wasn’t enough, there are classical music concerts at St. Anne’s Church to whisk you away into compositions of mesmerizing melodies.

Founded in 1518 in a Baroque fashion, you’re drawn in by not only the music but the grandiose interiors as well, dripping in gold finishings, painted fresco ceilings and Gothic architectural design.

For centuries, classical music concerts have been held inside, its acoustic and spatial design deeming it the perfect stage. The orchestra, led by a string quartet, pays homage to geniuses like Mozart, Beethoven, Haydn and Schubert.

• concerts at St. Anne’s Church

52 – Grab a coffee in the historic Café Central

Café Central is something of an institution in Vienna and from the late 19th-century became the place to meet local intellectuals. Famous patrons include Peter Altenberg, Sigmund Freud and Leon Trotsky to name but a few.

The Cafe is located in the Palais Ferstel in the upmarket Herrengasse neighborhood and has a classic decoration with a glass ceiling and marble pillars. It serves a variety of sweet treats and traditional Viennese foods.

53 – Take a moment of silence for the lost lives of the Mauthausen Concentration Camp

Eye-opening, compelling, and, in moments, also heart-wrenching, a day trip to the Mauthausen Concentration Camp is an unsurpassable experience.

From 1938 to 1945, under the order of the National Socialist Gauleiter, this harrowing site imprisoned people from across Europe, its first stones laid by deportees (at the time, this was predominantly men from Germany and Austria).

Today, visitors can get a better understanding of how men, women and children lived, or rather, tried to survive, through its museum’s permanent exhibitions: ‘The Crime Scenes of Mauthausen – Searching for Traces,’ ‘The Mauthausen Concentration Camp 1938–1945’ and ‘The “Room of Names”.’

• Mauthausen Concentration Camp tours

54 – One of the prettiest museums ever: check out MAK Austrian Museum of Applied Arts

MAK focuses on the relationships between art and design and especially architecture and contemporary art. The institution was founded in 1864 and its collection is one of the most important in the world.

Exhibits focus on the Vienna 1900 period, an era of great creativity in the city but also feature works from the middle ages to the current day. MAK DESIGN LAB focuses on the positive effects design can have.

• Museum of Applied Arts tickets

55 – See the Habsburg sarcophagi at the Imperial Crypt of Capuchin Church

The Imperial Crypt at the Capuchin Church is the resting place of 145 members of the Habsburg family who ruled the region from the 15th Century onwards. There are 107 metal sarcophagi in total and five urns containing hearts.

Amongst the remains are 12 Emperors and 18 Empresses. There are some very elaborate and ornate sarcophagi and some much more austere ones. The sarcophagus of Charles VI is particularly grand with crowned skulls and cherub decorations.

56 – Visit an ancient settlement on a Hallstatt day trip

Hallstatt is another popular day trip from Vienna. It is a very small town famed for its picture-perfect scenery. The town has a history that dates back to prehistoric times which centered around the local salt mines.

Take a day trip to Hallstatt and receive a guided tour of the most famous landmarks. Stop en route to visit the birthplace of Mozart’s mother in St. Gilgen and enjoy the lakes of Mondsee and Wolfgang amid the spectacular alpine scenery.

• Hallstatt tours from Vienna

57 – Get a virtual reality tour from an Empress on Sisi’s Amazing Journey

If you’re looking for an unusual yet informative way to learn about the history of Vienna why not take Sisi’s Amazing Journey! Let Empress Sisi take you on a virtual reality boat ride and give you a full tour of the town.

Take a trip through the city sewers, wave to the cheering crowds then visit the torture chambers of Elizabeth Bathory and more. Let Sisi recount humorous stories and take you on a flight over the city. This is a lighthearted look at Vienna and one of its greatest personalities.

58 – Make like Beethoven at the interactive Haus Der Musik

Haus der Musik is a museum of music and sound. It has interactive exhibits that encourage a playful as well as a scientific approach to music. You can hear music as a baby would inside the womb, put your name into a composition and direct your own opera on a virtual stage.

In addition to the exhibits, Haus Der Musik hosts live concerts, talks by artists and a varied program of events. Haus der Musik is a fun place to visit for the whole family.

• Haus Der Musik tickets

59 – Try the wiener schnitzel at Wiener Wiaz Haus

Taste the best wiener schnitzel of your life (and more) from the best restaurants From schnitzel to strudel, and then the city’s modern take on food, here are the best restaurants in Vienna.

Wiener Wiaz Haus first opened in the city in 1898. Authentic as you can get, it’s a popular spot for great schnitzel (the veal wiener is a crowd favorite) and beer in Vienna.

With a focus on fermentation and a seasonal menu, Bruder is awesome! For a full fledge of vegetables as the hero, Tian takes the humble veg and puts it on its contemporary head.

Thell (formerly Motto) is a long-standing spot, and for seafood, head to trendy O boufés bistro.

60 – Visit the ruin of Aggstein Castle

Aggstein Castle is a ruined 12th-Century castle that overlooks the River Danube. It sits on a rocky outcrop perched 300 meters above the river. It has had some notable owners including the Kuenrings, Jörg Scheck von Wald and Anna von Polheim-Parz.

The castle was left to deteriorate from the mid-1600s but in the 1930s efforts were made to preserve it. It is now a popular attraction and visitors can see the escape-proof prison and chapel.

61 – Learn more about non-European cultures at Weltmuseum (ethnographic museum)

The Weltmuseum is a museum of historical artifacts from around the world. Located in a wing of the Imperial Palace it houses hundreds of thousands of items from diverse cultures across Africa, Asia, America and Oceania.

Some of the museum’s most prized artifacts are an Aztec headdress from the early 1600s, a 2000-year-old Vietnamese drum and 14th-century glass lamps from Cairo.

• Weltmuseum tickets

62 – Somersault through the air at FLIP LAB

Whether you’re a trampoline beginner or already a pro, you may want to get your blood pumping at FLIP LAB ‘s gym in Millenium City, Vienna. It’s a place for fun and action where you can practice your ninja-backflip skills in safety and with a verified instructor.

Flip Lab has 12 different zones and 2000 square meters of high-flying trampoline fun as well as a spectator lounge and cloakrooms with showers. A visit to Flip Lab could be the fun thing to do in Vienna that you are looking for!

63 – Spend the day kayaking on the Alte Donau

Vienna has miles of waterways in and around the city, why not try kayaking on the Alte Donau? The Alte Donau or Old Danube was a section of the main Danube until the river was diverted in 1870 due to regular flooding.

It now offers a calm place to go kayaking in the city and spot wildlife like geese, swans and ducks. A kayaking tour is a great way to see the changing landscape of the Vienna riverside.

• kayaking in Vienna

64 – Pretend to be a spy for the day with outdoor escape games

Think you have what it takes to go into the espionage business? Or, perhaps you’ve always thought you’d be a fantastic Inspector Clouseau? Well, these epic outdoor escape rooms are one sure way to find out!

Setting off on a city quest (powered by a smartphone app), you’re given a set of clues and riddles that need solving. Cracking each one involves running around the city, and in between, visiting plenty of landmarks and attractions.

Pick a game centered around the 17th-century Plague, embark on a spy mission, discover all things relating to Freud, Mozart and Beethoven or opt for a classic sightseeing adventure.

• outdoor escape games in Vienna

65 – Enter the labyrinth and cross high rope gardens at Tigersworld

If you have young children aged six years and over, a visit to the Tigersworld Adventure play park might be just the thing. It has 2000 square meters of equipment to climb, jump and play on.

The park has three Ninja-parkour tracks, a trampoline zone and a 30 square meter jump air-bag. For the brave, there is a 7-meter climbing wall to really test their bouldering skills on. A trip to Tigersworld is a great way to spend the afternoon.

66 – From the early life of Hitler to Nazi atrocities, learn more with World War II tours

Involving nearly every single country across the world, WWII is one of the most historical wars our world has ever experienced, changing much of how global societies once were prior to the event.

Throughout WWII, close to one million Austrians fought for the Nazi German armed forces! And, Austria is, in fact, the birthplace of Adolf Hitler! Uncover in-depth history, information and sightseeing during World War II tours.

Your educated historian leads the way on this private walking tour (some tours also include a visit to the Military Museum). Stops on the itinerary include the likes of the Judenplatz Holocaust Memorial, St. Stephen’s Cathedral, Hofburg, Heldenplatz and Meldemannstraße 27 (Hitler’s residence).

• World War II tours in Vienna

67 – See a German-language play at the Burgtheater

The Burgtheater is the national theater of Austria and one of the oldest theaters in Europe. It has a distinct style of its own and performs only German-language plays. It is a big part of the culture of the city and was the venue for the premiers of three operas by Mozart and Beethoven’s first symphony.

It is worth a visit to the theater to see the building itself with ceiling murals created by Gustav and Ernst Klimt. Guided tours run daily.

68 – Feel like a city detective with a scavenger game

Looking for a unique way to explore the city? Why not try a scavenger hunt! Use an app to navigate your way around the city. Solve riddles and follow clues to complete challenges and receive the next set of coordinates.

Unlock stories about the places you visit and compete against other teams to get the highest score. This is a really fun thing to do in Vienna especially in a group!

• scavenger games in Vienna

69 – Admire the urban street art on a Street Art Tour

Although Vienna is brimming with classical art, the streets of this beautiful city also have an incredible street art scene not to miss, which you can see and learn more about on a Street Art Tour.

Walk alongside a knowledgeable, local guide as you discover street artwork from Shepard Fairey and ROA, as well as other pieces of work that are both eye-catching, and carry a message that requires no language proficiency.

At the end of your tour, enjoy a local favorite snack – Austrian sausage and beer/wine!

• street art tours in Vienna

70 – Enjoy sweets fit for an Emperor at The Demel

The Demel is a well-known pastry shop and chocolatier in Vienna that first opened in 1786. It was a popular eatery of the Viennese aristocracy and was a favorite of Emperor Franz Joseph I and the Empress Sisi.

The Demel has some fun traditions that have endured through time. You will always be referred to as sir or madam in the third person by the traditionally dressed waitresses known as Demelinerinnen. Try the famous Sachertorte, a dense chocolate cake with apricot jam, if you really want to indulge yourself.

71 – Feast on pukka Alpine dishes with an Austrian Dinner in local’s home

When you’re traveling to any new city or country, what better way to become acquainted than under the arms of a resident? An authentic Austrian dinner in a local’s home is a sure way to go, where you’ll leave feeling like life-long friends — and with a satisfied belly!

Joining Pia and her husband in their family abode, over the next 2.5 hours, delight in swapping stories, drinking Austrian sparkling wine and indulging in classic Alpine cuisine.

The menu typically consists of dumpling soup for starters, tafelspitz for mains and traditional cake for dessert — ingredients sourced from your host’s brother’s farm.

72 – Eat and shop for bargains at the Naschmarkt

The Naschmarkt is the most popular market in Vienna and is a good place to buy fresh fruit and vegetables, cheeses, meats and baked items. The market also has a good selection of stalls selling prepared snacks like hotdogs, sandwiches and sushi.

The market has a multicultural selection of foods and you will find traditional Austrian cheeses alongside Korean kimchi and Turkish kebabs. This is an al fresco dining experience not to be missed!

• Naschmarkt tours

73 – From Dolce & Gabbana to Dior, shop major fashion houses on Kärntner Straße

Kärntner Straße is the city’s most famous shopping street and runs from St. Stephen’s Cathedral to the Vienna State Opera building. The busy main street of the Innere Stadt has imposing 19th-century buildings housing shops, cafes and restaurants. The ornate Donner Fountain is located here.

You will find many luxury high street brands here and it is a nice place to visit in the evening with its small bars and cafe culture. The street oldest building, the Palais Esterházy has a well-known underground restaurant and wine tavern called Esterházykeller.

74 – Can you see The Walking Dead? Join eerie ghosts & legends tours

From a Countess murderer to Nazi antics to medieval executions, in a city as old as Vienna, you best believe it’s experienced its fair share of gruesome, gory and grueling. Deep dive into its darker past with an exciting ghost and legends tour — not for the faint-hearted.

Lured in by an expert on the city’s paranormal side, you’re shown buildings, streets and points of interest doused in ghost tales and stories hard to stomach.

For example, visit Am Hof Square, where public beheadings happened; Schönlatern Alley where the Knights Templar massacre occurred; the Vienna State Opera, where Jews during WWII were expelled; and St. Stephen’s Cathedral to see the mystifying gargoyles.

• ghost tours in Vienna

75 – Experience fine dining at the Michelin star restaurants in Vienna

Dine in comfort as you enjoy some of the award-winning dishes at Eckel , offering a refined version of Viennese country cooking inside a wonderfully cozy and chic restaurant. Located in the 19th district, the restaurant features terrace dining, as well as indoors during the colder months.

Taste the fusion between international cuisines with Austrian classic flavors at Amador , located inside the Hajszan Winery. This modern restaurant sources its ingredients from local producers, and imports only the best quality ingredients from other countries, to serve you the perfect concoctions of cultures on your plate.

Try the Szegediner lobster with cabbage when you dine at the Micheline star Vestibül restaurant, located inside the Burgtheater. Make an evening plan out of it, and check out a show after your memorable meal.

76 – Rejuvenate at a spa with thermal baths, Turkish hammams and more

After a busy day of sightseeing and museum hopping it’s great to unwind at Therme Wien. The city center spa has over 20 naturally heated pools to enjoy as well as saunas, steam rooms and aroma rooms.

It also has a playground for the kids to explore while the adults take time to relax. Afterward, you can take a cozy seat in the fire lounge or visit the library and cinema.

Check out Aux Gazelles Hammam and the Golden Tree Massage for the ultimate wellness experience offering some award-winning deep-tissue massage services and hair and body beauty services.

• wellness in Vienna

77 – Play roulette at Wien Casino

Vienna Casino can be found in the grand Palais Esterházy, on Vienna’s glitzy Kärntner Straße near St. Stephen’s Cathedral. It offers an elegant environment to try your luck at a game of roulette. It also has slot machines and tables for blackjack, poker and Macau baccarat.

The casino has a bar and restaurant serving a selection of two and four-course meals in the style of traditional Viennese dishes.

78 – Ever drunk a Weizenbier? Sample the local brew scene with beer tastings

Beer drinking in Austria is the equivalent of eating pasta in Italy. Not just a social habit, in these parts of the world, it’s a lifestyle, ingrained into local culture.

One of Vienna’s most popular types of beer is Weizenbier, otherwise known as wheat beer. Taste the brew first-hand, plus other types of craft beer, with quenching beer tastings around the city.

Tours range from 40 minutes to two hours worth of drinking. Knock back cold crafts in a beer garden, visit local manufacturers, and learn about production processes at local breweries.

• beer tastings in Vienna

79 – Get a taste of Vienna nightlife on a pub crawl

Vienna’s many pubs, bars and clubs are just waiting to be explored. Why not take a guided tour with a knowledgeable local around the best spots in the city.

Mingle with international travelers on a group tour through the city’s most beloved bars and clubs. Get special drinks promotions and play traditional drinking games while you make new friends. A pub crawl is great for solo travelers and groups alike.

• pub crawls in Vienna

80 – Drink up the Viennese city views at the best rooftops

Though the rooftop furnishings at Aurora Rooftop Bar are minimal, they make the spectacular sights of the Vienna skyline the star of the show. Grab your friends, and order yourselves refreshing cocktails to seal the evening in style.

Recline on a lounger with your craft cocktail in hand, and toast to another successful day exploring Vienna at Dachboden at 25hours Hotel . Whether you’re looking for a relaxing early evening or a vibey night of dancing, you’ll find it all here.

Look at the city from the floor-to-ceiling glass windows at Das Loft Bar & Lounge , making it the perfect rooftop to visit during the colder seasons. Turn the heat up, and visit on the weekends when the DJ plays the perfect tracks.

Want to truly feel on top of the world? Visit Vienna’s highest rooftop bar, 57 Restaurant & Lounge featuring the best drink creations from talented mixologists, as the panoramic views show you the city lit up in thousands of lights.

Have authentic Austrian food with a side of Viennese wine or a lovely cocktail at SKY Bar, Cafe, Restaurant . Offering sights of the side of Stephen’s Cathedral, as well as the other historic buildings, you’ll really feel like you’re in Vienna.

81 – Wake up feeling like Cinderella after a night’s sleep in a real palace

Unlike most cities, Vienna has a wealth of extravagant palaces. What better place to stay while visiting the city than in one of these grand buildings. Stay in the heart of the city’s “Golden Quarter” surrounded by decadent historical buildings, world-leading museums and outstanding restaurants.

For a 5 star stay in a Vienna palace, look at The Park Hyatt Hotel , Hotel Bristol and Hotel Imperial all of which have a luxurious and uniquely Viennese style.

82 – Check out the markets, festivals or concerts of Rathaus (town hall)

The Rathaus, or town hall, and its square are still at the center of life in Vienna. This huge Neo-Gothic building is the office of the city’s mayor but also has ballrooms, banqueting halls and a restaurant.

The Square hosts a yearly film festival throughout the summer months and has a whole program of free events. The Rathausplatz is at its most magical in December when the Christmas market fills the square with lights, food stalls, rides and an ice skating rink.

• city tours in Vienna

How to get to Vienna?

Prepare your ride to the city center from Vienna’s main airport (Vienna International Airport – Flughafen Wien) by pre-booking your airport transfer in Vienna .

Avoid the hassle of figuring out the public transport, carrying your luggage to bus stops or busy trains, and instead book a private airport transfer to drop you off at your hotel directly, or any other point in the city.

Where to stay in Vienna?

Order room service or dine in the restaurant downstairs surrounded by Art Deco and Baroque interiors when you stay at the hospitable Steigenberger Hotel Herrenhof . Relax and rejunviante after tiring sightseeing days when you book a spa experience in the hotel’s incredible 2-floor spa with saunas.

Wake up every morning to the stream of light coming in through your room’s large windows when you stay at Eurostars Embassy . Offering guests a fresh and filling breakfast with vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options, to enjoy right before heading out to the main sights like Saint Stephen’s Cathedral closeby.

Located on the historic Mariahilfer Straße, a famous shopping street in Vienna is Hotel MOTTO , featuring freshly served breakfast inside their on-site restaurant. Rest up every night inside their fully furnished, elegantly decorated rooms, with city views of the historic district. Don’t worry about the outside noise, as the hotel comes with soundproof windows.

• best hotels in Vienna

Visiting Vienna on a budget?

Make sure to book a free walking tour in Vienna to get a walk-through of the different sites throughout Vienna. Offering a layout of the city, available in a variety of languages.

Wondering where some of the best walking tours of Vienna are, or how to book one? Check out our guide to the best free walking tours in Vienna .

If your heart is set on visiting some of the city’s major attractions, there are ways to save on ticket prices and entrance fees, as well as discounted rates on specific tours with Vienna Passes . Schönbrunn Palace tours, the Kunsthistorisches Museum and Schönbrunn Zoo are some examples.

Where to go next?

Check off more amazing places to visit in Europe , especially near Vienna, starting with the things to do in Salzburg , offering baroque and medieval architecture, with the outstanding backdrop of the Eastern Alps. Tour the home of Mozart, and take a Sound of Music tour while you’re there.

Looking for outdoor experiences? Head to Innsbruck, “the Olympic City”, and enjoy a diverse range of sports activities – from skiing to rock climbing. Other adventure-fueled things to do in Innsbruck include the Bergisel Ski Jump, rafting and bungee jumping from Europa Bridge.

Prague is only a short plane ride away and features a picturesque Old Town with a mix of Art Nouveau and Cubist architecture, as well as a unique “beer bath” you can’t find anywhere else. Attend a classical concert, performed by some of the best Czech composers and visit castles, and there are plenty of other things to do in Prague that are culturally enriching.

Explore the wonders in Budapest, crossing the Danube River to explore Buda and Pest as well as witness the changing of the guards at the Parliament. Among the fun things to do in Budapest , discover different areas and their street art on a street art tour

Book a multi-day trip from Vienna to keep exploring a bit more outside the city center to iconic must-see places including climbing the “Sky Ladder” – Salzkammergut.

Final thoughts

With its ongoing list of things to do in Vienna, like witnessing a Viennese Waltz in a 19th- century palace, to visiting the world’s oldest and continuous zoo, visiting Vienna is just like taking a bite out of a decadent slice of Viennese Sachetorte (chocolate cake) – spectacular and satisfying to the senses.

Safe travels to the “City of Dreams” – Vienna!

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Home » Europe » Austria » Vienna

17 BEST Places to Visit in Vienna (2024)

The Austrian capital is famous for its elegant architecture, imperial past, opera and classical music, Christmas markets, and the annual Carnival with its opulent balls. With culture, history, great dining, and plenty of ways to have family fun, Vienna is a great European destination for all.

Vienna is a huge and sprawling city, which is divided into several distinct neighbourhoods. Some of the city’s best places are quite spread out and deciding what to add to your Vienna itinerary can be difficult.

We’re here to help! Stop stressing about your travel planning and tick off these best places to visit in Vienna for a great time in the sophisticated Austrian capital city.

With a blend of well-known spots, Vienna must-sees, and local hidden gems, some of these best places to visit in Vienna are bound to amaze you!

Need a place quick? Here’s the best neighbourhood in Vienna:

These are the best places to visit in vienna, faq on the best places to visit in vienna, enjoy the best places to visit in vienna.

Innere Stadt

Innere Stadt is the most central neighbourhood in Vienna, and where most of the historical sights are located. It is your best option to stay there if you are visiting the city for the first time, as you will be close to everything and in the centre of the action.

• Get a slice of Austria’s most famous cake at the Sacher Hotel;
• Get a glimpse of the Habsburg’s family life at the Hofburg;
• Visit Stephansdom, Vienna’s most famous religious building.

Before you fulfil your lifelong dream of seeing the Venus de Vilendorf in person, you will need to book your accommodation in the neighborhood of your choice. Lucky for you, we’ve compiled them all for you! Be sure to check out where to stay in Vienna before scrolling into the fun below.

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#1 – Schönbrunn Palace – An awesome place to visit in Vienna for half a day!

• Gigantic Baroque palace;
• Beautiful formal gardens;
• Primary summer home of the imperial Habsburgs;
• Lots of art and antiques.

Why it’s awesome: The enormous Schönbrunn Palace as seen today was built in the mid-1700s. The area was previously owned by a mighty Roman emperor, who used it as a hunting ground, and it later became the main summer residence of the Hapsburg rulers. Today it operates as a museum and is one of the most popular attractions in Vienna, if not Austria. It is also a UNESCO-listed site. The huge palace has more than 1,400 rooms and visitors can explore the lush interiors on various tours. The gorgeous gardens are free to explore, with formal flowerbeds, beautiful sculptures, faux Roman ruins, vineyards, a maze, the Gloriette, and more. The Palm House and the Desert House contain interesting flora from around the world.

What to do there: Book a tour to admire the opulent interiors of Schönbrunn Palace, with glorious rooms that are filled with an abundance of treasures, art, antiques, and period furnishings. The Imperial Tour takes you through 22 rooms, including opulent staterooms and private residences of former leader Franz Joseph (Austria’s longest-reigning ruler) and Sisi.

If you want to see more of the stunning palace and delve even deeper into the lives of the Hapsburg rulers the Grand Tour visits 40 lavish rooms. See how the younger members of the imperial family lived at the Children’s Museum, visit the Carriage Museum, explore the lush gardens, try your hand at making strudel, and admire the various plant species housed within the Desert House and historic glass and iron Palm House.

#2 – St. Stephen’s Cathedral – One of the most religious places to see in Vienna

• Long history;
• Beautiful architecture;
• Active place of worship;
• Major city landmark.

Why it’s awesome: St. Stephen’s Cathedral is one of the most recognisable landmarks in Vienna. The impressive Gothic and Romanesque church dates back to the 1300s, and it stands on the site of earlier churches. It has seen many changes over the years and stood the test of time through major events. The tallest tower reaches 136 metres (446 feet) tall. It has served as an important lookout point during times of trouble. The multi-coloured roof is a striking feature with a mosaic of a double-headed eagle, symbolic of the Habsburg empire. Various statues stand outside. Inside, there are several chapels dedicated to different saints, statues, religious art, and a striking Gothic pulpit. Underneath the church, there are crypts and catacombs.

What to do there: Admire the spectacular façade of St. Stephen’s Cathedral before entering through the Giant’s Door. Look above and you’ll see intricate sculptures. Take a guided tour of the stunning cathedral, or take a self-guided audio tour, to learn more about the magnificent building and its long and interesting history. You’ll also learn lots of interesting facts about the beautiful artwork within the cathedral.

Don’t miss seeing the Byzantine Maria Pötsch Icon, thought to be miraculous, and the statue known as Christ with a Toothache. Step into the smaller statues, including those dedicated to St. Bartholomew, St. Valentine, St. Katherine, and St. Barbara, and spend some quiet time in contemplation or prayer. Descend into the gloomy catacombs and see the many bones on display, go up the North Tower to view Austria’s biggest bell, and ascend the South Tower for amazing city views.

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#3 – Prater – Easily one of the most fun places to check out in Vienna

• Family-friendly attraction;
• Large public park;
• Fun amusement park;
• Opportunities to enjoy nature.

Why it’s awesome: Prater is a large public park in Leopoldstadt, one of the more popular neighbourhoods in Vienna. Green and leafy with a main path that’s lined with horse chestnut trees, the park is a great place to enjoy nature and relax outdoors. One section of the park has an amusement park. It’s one of the best places in Vienna to take kids. It is also one of the oldest amusement parks across the globe. The park also has a planetarium, a museum, shops, places to eat and drink, and various other attractions. There is no charge to enjoy the pretty park. Admission to the amusement park is also free; visitors simply pay for the rides that they wish to enjoy.

What to do there: Stroll along the tree-lined Hauptallee, take a seat on a bench to enjoy time in nature, and visit the Prater Museum. Turn your attention to the skies at the planetarium and step into a magical fairytale land at the Grottenbahn. Take a ride on the soaring Prater Wheel for amazing views over Vienna, discover the park on the historic Liliputbahn light railway, and feel the rush on the Vienna Rollercoaster. The wooden rollercoaster has an air of nostalgia and is suitable for people of all ages. Get a thrilling adrenaline rush on Praterturm, a huge flying swing.

#4 – Kriminalmuseum – Quite the quirky place in Vienna!

• Fascinating museum with a focus on darker themes
• Lesser-visited attraction
• Only suitable for adults
• Grisly exhibits

Why it’s awesome: It might not be everyone’s cup of tea but a visit to Kriminalmuseum definitely ranks highly when it comes to the most unusual things to do in Vienna . Filled with gruesome and grisly items, the museum takes a look at crime through the country’s past. From human remains and murder weapons to instruments of torture and death masks, the museum will definitely appeal to fans of dark tourism.

Exhibits have decent explanations in English, though you can also pick up a leaflet with more detailed explanations inside. Items are spread across some 20 rooms and, though it may look small from the outside, the museum is actually quite large and crammed full of unusual memorabilia.

What to do there: Prepare to be shocked when visiting Vienna’s Kriminalmuseum. Do note that it is not a suitable place to take kids, and even some adults may find the horrific displays a bit too much to handle. Learn about the nation’s criminal past as you wander through the maze-like rooms and see all types of bizarre and terrifying objects and artefacts. Travel back to the Medieval period and discover crimes from times gone by right up to the present day.

Various criminal activities are covered, including counterfeit currency, thefts, and prostitution, though the sections dedicated to murder are generally the most morbidly fascinating. Some of the more shocking items on display include a gruesome mummified head of a felon who was sentenced to death, bullet-hole-ridden skulls, exhibits were used in the horrific study of eugenics, large photographs of murder victims, and pornographic images.

#5 – Naschmarkt – A must-see for foodies!

• Large and colourful market;
• Huge array of food;
• One of the most popular markets in Vienna.

Why it’s awesome: The large Naschmarkt is one of the best places to visit in Vienna for an incredible assortment of tasty fare. In operation since the 16th century, it’s one of the most popular markets in the capital. In times gone by vendors would travel to the market with goods from far and wide, bringing produce from local farms and from foreign lands.

Today there is still a wide variety of global cuisine as well as traditional Austrian favourites. From made-to-order meals to fresh ingredients, the colourful and vibrant market has everything that a foodie could possibly want. On Saturdays, there is also a small but interesting flea market, with diverse retro, vintage, and used goods.

What to do there: Walk around the bustling market, pausing to see what’s for sale at the 120-odd stalls. If you’re staying in self-catering accommodation you can pick up a range of fresh vegetables, meats, fish, and other ingredients to cook up a feast for dinner.

Visit the bakeries, delicatessens, and cheese shops to pick up tasty treats for a picnic. Grab quick and easy bites for a lunch on the go or sit down in one of the restaurants to take your time over your meal. You’ll find everything from sushi, kebabs, and curries, to Chinese stir-fried dishes, Austrian sausages, and pizza. It’s easy to see how the Naschmarkt is one of the best places to eat in Vienna.

#6 – Karlskirche – A great place to see in Vienna if you love architecture

• Unusual and distinctive architecture;
• Gorgeous frescoes;
• Constructed to give thanks;
• Regularly hosts classical concerts.

Why it’s awesome: The stunning Karlskirche is one of the most beautiful architectural hotspots in Vienna. Building began in the early 1700s, and the church was completed in 1737. The story behind its construction is interesting: the striking place of worship was built to honour a saint called Charles Borromeo. When the city was struck by a plague epidemic in the early 1700s, the ruler vowed to build a church dedicated to the saint (a man known for helping victims of the plague) if the disease left the city.

It blends several architectural styles, including Byzantine, Roman, Greek, Baroque, and Renaissance. Topped with a green dome, it’s an impressive sight from the outside. Inside, there are fine statues and frescoes. The great composer, Vivaldi, was buried in the grounds, although his tomb has long since been lost. The church hosts regular concerts in his memory.

What to do there: Appreciate the splendid details, both inside and outside, taking time to admire the carved columns, colourfully painted ceiling, reliefs, and statues. There are plenty of symbolic features to spot too as light floods in through the main window. See the delicately carved wooden pulpit, scenes showing St. Borromeo ascending to heaven, angels, and an interesting painting that depicts the Virgin Mary praying for the plague in Vienna to stop.

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#7 – The Hofburg – Possibly one of the most important places to visit in Vienna

• One of the world’s biggest palace complexes;
• Lots of history and culture;
• Former  home to Habsburg emperors;
• Numerous interesting collections.

Why it’s awesome: Exploring the enormous palace complex of the Hofburg is a Vienna must do. Once home to the imperial court, there are many elegant buildings, some of which house fascinating museums today. Strolling around the complex really helps visitors to travel back in time and see what royal life was like in Vienna in times gone by. The royal home until the end of WWI, it was the place where much European history was made. Different emperors left their mark on the complex, creating a fascinating blend of architectural styles and details.

While there are three main parts of interest—the Sisi Museum, the Imperial Apartments, and the Imperial Silver Collection—the huge complex has a wealth of other terrific things to see. Buildings are spread over 59 acres (24 hectares), with charming gardens and elegant squares between. Astonishingly, there are more than 2,500 rooms across the complex!

What to do there: Take at least a few hours to walk through the grounds of the massive Hofburg complex and admire the stunning buildings from the outside. Be sure to charge your camera as you’re likely to want to take lots of pictures! Ogle some 7,000 exquisite items in the Imperial Silver Collection. Learn more about the life of Empress Sisi as you view a wide collection of personal items in the Sisi Museum. See the lavish quarters where royalty once lived in the spectacular Imperial Apartments. Visit the Royal Chapel, which is the oldest part of the palace complex. Marvel at the wonderful interiors of the Austrian National Library. See the astronomical clock on the outside of the Amalienburg.

#8 – Spanish Riding School – One of the most amazing places in Vienna!

• Part of the Hofburg complex;
• See handsome Lipizzaner stallions;
• Rich traditions;
• Beautiful architecture.

Why it’s awesome: The Spanish Riding School is part of the enormous Hofburg palace complex. Established in the 1570s, the high-class riding school is among the top-four most prestigious horse riding schools across the globe. Additionally, it’s one of the oldest such academies in the world too. A place where visitors can watch fine equestrian traditions, the school takes its name from the fact that the thoroughbred stallions had Spanish roots.

Today’s fine steeds are all bred in Austria, but all are graceful Lipizzaner horses. The training has military roots and the methodical training process can take up to three years for riders and four to six years for horses.

What to do there: See the fine building that houses the Spanish Riding School, a pale structure with plenty of natural sunlight. Get to the academy early in the morning to watch the elegant pedigree horses at their morning training sessions. Watch as riders salute to the large portrait of Emperor Charles VI before beginning to ride. Admire the smart uniforms of the riders and the perfect poise and condition of both man and beast and be impressed by the skilled manoeuvres. It’s well worth obtaining tickets to a special performance too if there is one scheduled for your time in Vienna.

Wonder how to spend a weekend in Vienna? Head over to our  insider’s Weekend in Vienna guide!

#9 – Danube Tower – Great place to visit in Vienna for couples!

• Incredible sweeping views;
• Highest landmark in Austria;
• Next to the Danube River;
• Cool revolving restaurant.

Why it’s awesome: The Danube Tower (Donauturm) is one of the most romantic points of interest in Vienna. Standing proudly at 252 metres (827 feet) tall, it’s the tallest structure in all of Austria. Constructed in the 1960s, the soaring tower is located alongside the banks of the River Danube. It is surrounded by pretty parkland.

A major sight on the Viennese skyline it’s not only good to admire from afar; visitors can go to the observation platform to soak up fabulous views of the city and beyond. There are also two rotating eateries (one restaurant and one cafe) where couples can relax with each other while enjoying the slowly changing vistas.

What to do there: Snap plenty of pictures of the iconic tower from outside before riding in one of the high-speed elevators up to the observation platform. Spot major landmarks in Vienna from your high vantage point and enjoy the bird’s eye views over the capital. Savour a tasty meal in the revolving restaurant or sink your teeth into a light bite in the café and admire the views for longer. The romantic dinners and special events help to inject even more romance and passion into your visit if you really want to impress that special someone.

#10 – Stadtpark – A beautiful outdoor place to visit in Vienna

• Biggest city park in Vienna;
• Pleasant spot to relax and enjoy nature;
• Interesting monuments and statues;
• Peaceful ambience.

Why it’s awesome: The lovely Stadtpark is the largest public park in Vienna. Located in the heart of the city, it’s a nice place to take a break and spend time in nature. Open since the early 1860s and free to enter, the park is set out somewhat like a traditional English garden. Pathways meander through the lovely landscapes and a river flows through the middle of the park. Bridges span the waterway. Statues, memorials, trees, flowers, and water features all help to add to the visual beauty. There are several places to eat and drink in the park too.

What to do there: Escape the hustle and bustle of the city streets and enjoy a peaceful walk through the greenery of Stadtpark. The open lawns are perfect places for kids to run and play and adults can follow the paths through the park, relax in the sunshine with a good book, or sip a drink in one of the cafes.

Enjoy the views from the bridge that crosses the River Wien and see ducks and large fish swimming below in the waters. Admire the flower clock and pause at the statues dedicated to various famous composers, including Franz Schubert, Anton Bruckner, Robert Stolz, and Franz Lehar. Don’t miss having a selfie with the gleaming statue of Johann Strauss.

#11 – Hundertwasser Haus – One of the more unique places to visit in Vienna!

• Unusual piece of architecture;
• Colourful and eye-catching;
• Delightful roof and vertical gardens;
• Free movie.

Why it’s awesome: The unusual Hundertwasser Haus is certainly a conversation starter. One of the most unusual famous places in Vienna, the colourful block was created in the early 1980s and is the work of Friedensreich Hundertwasser, an artist turned architectural designer.

Not only are there few straight lines and a lot of colours, but it’s also a living, breathing building thanks to the many plants and trees that grow from balconies, trellises, on the roof, and in pots. Indeed, there are more than 200 plants around the building’s exterior. Inside there are apartments and offices and there are both shared and communal terraces. Do note, however, that the insides are not open to visitors.

What to do there: Marvel at the unique building from the outside, appreciating the balance between nature and the man-made. Call into the ground-level coffee shop for a quick pick-me-up and to watch a free short film about the house. Visit the cool Hundertwasser Village across the street, created in the early 1990s. It’s a quirky shopping centre designed in the artist’s signature style and it features a pretty square, diverse shops, and a bar. You can also take a short stroll along the street to see another of Hundertwasser’s creations: Kunst Haus Wien.

#12 – Vienna State Opera – A great place to visit Vienna at night

• One of the best opera houses in the world;
• Diverse program of events;
• Glorious façade and interiors;
• Long history.

Why it’s awesome: The fabulous Vienna State Opera House is a Vienna must see. Originally built in the 1850s, the city’s first opera house was largely destroyed during bombing in World War Two. It was later renovated and rebuilt, in keeping with the original style. The building has a grand façade and stunning interiors, with ornate lobbies, grand marble staircases, luxurious chandeliers, and a large sophisticated auditorium.

Often said to be among the top opera houses across the globe it is also one of the busiest performance venues. The program is diverse. Various famous composers and performers have graced the stages over the years, and members of the Vienna Philharmonic are recruited from the musicians in the Vienna State Opera’s orchestra.

What to do there: Gaze upon the elegant building from the outside, noticing the two equestrian statues, the two fountains (that symbolise happiness, music, joy, and dance against revenge, love, sorrow, and seduction), and the five bronze statues that represent love, comedy, fantasy, tragedy, and heroism.

See the stunning interiors on a 40-minute guided tour, visiting the foyer, the opulent staircase, the ornate state rooms, and the auditorium. You’ll also hear interesting facts and anecdotes about the building and performers. Spend a memorable evening at a spectacular performance, with various operas and ballets on the ever-changing schedule.

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#13 – Schönbrunn Zoo – Awesome place to visit in Vienna with kids!

• One of the oldest zoos in the world;
• Within the Schönbrunn Palace complex;
• Home to animals from across the globe.

Why it’s awesome: Wondering what to do in Vienna with children? The large Schönbrunn Zoo (known locally as Tiergarten Schönbrunn) is one of the best Vienna vacation ideas for families. Found within the ground of the extensive Schönbrunn Palace, the zoo was built in the 1750s to house the imperial menagerie. It is one of the oldest still-operating zoos in the world today.

Despite many setbacks over the years, today the zoo contains an exciting selection of animals from all four corners of the globe. The large enclosures are well maintained and clean and there are various habitats for visitors to explore. There’s a good selection of places to eat and drink throughout the zoo too.

What to do there: Observe an array of creatures from different parts of the planet, including koalas, elephants, tigers, orangutans, penguins, zebras, sea lions, wolves, otters, polar bears, camels, bats, and deer. The giant pandas are usually popular with kids and adults alike.

There are several habitats and themed areas to explore, including the rainforest house (which simulates conditions in the Amazon Jungle), the polarium, an aquarium, the big cat house, the desert house, and a children’s petting zoo. Take a ride on the quaint Schönbrunn Panorama Train, watch various species being fed, and sign up for special behind-the-scenes and interactive tours.

#14 – Vienna City Hall – One of the most incredible free places to go to in Vienna

• Neo-Gothic architectural gem;
• Official seat of Vienna’s mayor;
• Free guided tours;
• Beautifully illuminated at night.

Why it’s awesome: Vienna City Hall is a striking building that dates back to the late 1800s. Built in a Neo-Gothic style, it emulates other fine non-religious Gothic structures around Europe. The large building boasts five towers and a number of interior courtyards. There are more than 1,500 rooms inside, spread across six storeys, along with two basements.

The interiors can be visited on a free guided tour (various languages are available on audio devices, though the main tour is in German). There are often events, like markets, just inside the main entrance, and there’s also a stylish onsite restaurant that is open to members of the public.

What to do there: Admire the beautiful building from the outside and see the interesting Rathausmann statue perched atop the tallest tower. Affixed in 1882, the figure is today one of the city’s symbols. Rest for a while in the grassy Rathauspark in front of the building. Take a free tour to see parts inside the building; tours include the Festival Hall, Arcade Courtyard, Council Chamber, Stone Halls, Senate Chamber, and Coat of Arms Halls. Treat yourself to a nice meal in the restaurant before continuing your sightseeing in Vienna.

#15 – Graben – A great place in Vienna if you love to shop!

• Luxurious shopping street;
• Great places to dine;
• Historic buildings;
• Plague column.

Why it’s awesome: Located in the heart of the city, Graben is a busy shopping street with Roman roots. It was a popular shopping area during the times of the Habsburgs, with many fine stores with long traditions remaining today. A lot of the buildings date back to the 17th and 18th century and there are many beautiful architectural details.

Shops sell an assortment of wares and it’s a popular place for both locals and tourists to spoil themselves and indulge in some retail therapy. There are elegant restaurants and cafes too. The marble plague column is an interesting sight along the street.

What to do there: Walk along the refined mostly pedestrianised streets and admire the beautiful buildings. Fine examples include the Grabenhof and the Equitable Palace. Don’t miss seeing the plague column, built in the late 1600s to remember those who died during the devastating epidemic. The sculpture is highly ornate with many symbolic elements.

You can also pause to admire the lovely fountains. Window shop in time-honoured establishments like Augarten porcelain factory, Nägele & Strubell perfumerie, and the high-class jewellers of Heldwein. You’ll find shops selling a wide array of other goods too, including clothing, homewares, accessories, and souvenirs. Stop at a café for refreshments and a spot of people watching along the bustling street.

#16 – Kunsthistorisches Museum – A great place to visit in Vienna if you are alone/traveling solo

• Splendid art museum;
• Stunning building;
• Lavish décor;
• Imperial history.

Why it’s awesome: The splendid Kunsthistorisches Museum is the biggest art museum in Austria. The glorious palace-like building was constructed in the late 1800s and the museum was opened by Franz Joseph I in the early 1890s. The emperor wanted the museum to house some of the amazing pieces of art from The Hofburg and make collections accessible to the public. Inside, the building has opulent interiors and numerous eye-catching artworks. Collections include portraits, Greek and Roman antiquities, coins, sculptures, and items from Egypt and the Near East.

What to do there: Walk across Maria-Theresien-Platz and see the almost identical facing buildings of the Kunsthistorisches Museum and the Natural History Museum, both built at the same time. A large statue of Empress Maria Theresa stands at the heart of the square. The dome-topped museums are architectural masterpieces. Step inside the museum and you’re sure to be impressed by the glorious interiors, complete with polished marble, sweeping staircases, gold leaf, colourful frescoes, and intricate ornamental plasterwork.

Take time to view the impressive art collection spread through the museum, with pieces by European masters and ancient artefacts among the exhibits. Once you’ve finished, you might want to visit the nearby Modern Art Museum, housed in the old imperial stables, to see even more interesting artworks.

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#17 – Capuchin Church – One of Vienna’s coolest historical sites!

• Final resting place of many Habsburg rulers;
• Spiritual vibe;
• Unassuming façade;
• Interesting tours.

Why it’s awesome: Officially named the Church of Saint Mary of the Angels, the 1632 Capuchin Church is one of the most historic hotspots in Vienna. The fairly plain exterior and simple experience gives no clue as to the building’s significance, and it would be easy to stroll right on past without realising that, in fact, the church is a major attraction.

The inside of the church is also fairly plain, with no aisle, whitewashed walls, orderly seating, and a pretty but unremarkable altar. The real interest, however, lies underground in the crypt. The Imperial Crypt contains the tombs of many people from the Imperial Family—it is here that many mighty emperors and empresses were laid to rest.

What to do there: Enter the church and absorb the tranquil and spiritual air, perhaps taking a seat to rest for a few moments in thought. Descend into the Imperial Crypt to see the tombs and funerary urns of deceased royals.

More than 140 Royals have been laid to rest here, including 12 former emperors and 18 empresses. Some of the tombs are fairly simple, while others are highly ornate. The tomb of Maria Theresa and Holy Roman Emperor Franz I is large and detailed. You can visit independently, though there also tours that will help you to learn more about the people buried beneath the peaceful church.

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Find out what people want to know about the best places to visit in Vienna

Is Vienna worth visiting?

Yes, Vienna is definitely worth a visit for lovers of culture, art and history.

Which is the best palace to visit in Vienna?

The Schönbrunn Palace is the most visited palace in Vienna and is a truly beautiful building.

What is Vienna famous for?

Vienna is famous for being the capital of Austria and being the home to famous classical musicians such as Beethoven and Mozart.

Can you visit Vienna in 2 days?

Yes, two days should be enough to see all the main highlights.

Wonderful Vienna offers a wealth of things for people of all ages, though there is definitely a strong focus on history, culture, music, architecture, and the arts.

Kahlenberg and Volksgarten are pretty outdoor spots if you want to get away for a while and spend time in nature, and the Krapfenwald Pools are a top place for soothing relaxation.

Discover the wealth of knowledge housed in the establishments of the MuseumsQuartier and tour the city’s other top-class museums. Fantastic museums to add to your list when you explore Vienna include the Sigmund Freud Museum, Albertina, the Museum of Natural History, the Museum of Ethnology, the Jewish Museum, the Austrian Museum of Folk Life and Folk Art, and Time Travel Vienna. Fans of classical music shouldn’t miss the Johann Strauss House, and if you’re more into places that are a bit quirky the Globe Museum and Clock Museum may be right up your street.

Spend a day exploring the Danube Island, get off the beaten track in Ottakring, enjoy more imperial grandeur at Belvedere Palace, stroll through the quiet Central Cemetery, and visit the lesser-known Church am Steinhof. You can even take an easy day trip to Bratislava, the capital of neighbouring Slovakia.

For your travel plans, be sure to check out our guide on whether Vienna is expensive or not . Be prepared with the right budget!

There is certainly no need to ever feel bored in the Austrian capital! Add these best places to visit in Vienna to your bucket list and discover one of Europe’s most elegant destinations .

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16 Unforgettable Things to Do in Vienna on Your Visit

Steve Cummings

November 20, 2023

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Vienna is known for more than just legendary musicians like Mozart and Beethoven; it also has fantastic palaces, museums, and historic spots, and we've got tips on free things to do in Vienna without spending much.

In this guide, we'll cover 16 top things to do in Vienna.

1. St Stephen's Cathedral

St Stephen's Cathedral is right in the city center, and the entrance to this museum is free, but you will have to pay for certain parts of it, like the tower room, which is 343 steps to the top. This will give you the best views of Vienna and the fantastic tiled roof this cathedral is famous for.

Visiting St. Stephen's Cathedral early in the morning is recommended, especially if you want to take photographs without people in your way, as it can get jam-packed later in the day.

2. Vienna State Opera (Staatsoper) – Standing Room.

The Vienna State Opera costs about 15 euros, but it's so cheap that frugal travelers can afford to go, and it's one of the unique things to do in Vienna as not every city offers you the chance to watch Opera. 

Some of these performances can last 4 hours, which is a long time to stand, but they provide an allocated standing position, have supports to lean on, and have little monitors to watch the performance on.

So, you can visit the Opera cheaply in Vienna. You just have to decide if you want to stand for 4 hours!

3. Prater Park

Entry to Prater Park is free, so you can spend as much or as little as you like, and it's probably one of the best things to do in Vienna with kids. You'll find loads of rides, from gentle carousels to roller coasters, and if you like high-adrenaline rides, we recommend the Hotel Psycho Ghost Train and Prater Turm.

Rides are priced individually, starting around €3.50, so you can pick and choose your adventures, which is good for us as frugal travelers. Access to the famous Ferris wheel is free if you already have the Vienna Pass.

There are plenty of food and drink options in the park, but these can be expensive, so you could always take your picnic into the park.

Our pro tip is to make sure you take cash, as some places can be funny about accepting cards, and the toilets only accept a 50-cent coin.

4. Donauinsel (Danube Island)

Donauinsel (Danube Island) is an elongated island between the River Danube and the Neue Donau, offering plenty of recreational activities and exceptional views. To get here, take the U1 line to the Donauinsel station and cross a short bridge.

Thanks to the many paths available, Danube Island is popular with people who love to jog, bike, or walk their dogs, and it's also a great spot for those who like to take it easy and have a picnic.

If you want adventure, hire a boat to get out on the water. Standing on one of the bridges that cross the Danube offers a particularly stunning perspective for the best Vienna selfie.

5. Free Walking Tours

A few companies offer free Vienna walking tours, but we recommend the one run by Prime Tours. The tours usually last two and a half hours and cover the main tourist spots in Vienna, where you'll learn about the city's history, culture, and everyday life.

The guides know their stuff and tell great stories that make history come alive, and they also have a good sense of humor, which keeps things interesting. Not not only do you get to see famous places, but the guides also give helpful tips on other places to visit. The tour helps you understand Vienna better and can help you plan the rest of your trip.

Even though the walking tour is free, it's still a good idea to tip your tour guide for their hard work.

6. Schönbrunn Palace

Schönbrunn Palace is rated as the number 1 attraction on Trip Advisor and is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Vienna. It's just a short train ride and a five-minute walk from the city center. Booking early is a good idea because this place gets jam-packed. Once you arrive, you'll take a 40-room tour guided by an audio device.

The palace focuses on Maria Theresa, a past ruler with many kids, including Marie Antoinette. The audio guide is beneficial for learning about the history and people who lived there.

After the tour, you can check out the gift shop or grab a bite at the cafe, although the service might be slow. The big bonus is the outdoor area, which is mostly free, which you should like as a frugal traveler. You can wander around, and you might even spot a red squirrel. There's also a tall monument called the Gloriette with a cafe. You can pay to go to the top, but you'll still get lovely views even if you stay at the bottom.

7. Kunsthistorisches Museum Vienna

As you walk into the Kunsthistorisches Museum and see the grand staircase, you realize this is one of the best things to see in Vienna. This museum is not just somewhere you can visit for a few hours. You'll want to take your time to wander around as there's plenty to see.

An optional audio tour is available, it's a bit fiddly to set up, but once you get it working, it's worth it. The climate-controlled museum offers a comfortable environment to explore some of the greatest art treasures. It's not as crowded when compared to other famous museums in Vienna, especially if you go in the off-season, like mid-September.

8. Belvedere Museum

The main attraction at this museum is the art, especially Gustav Klimt's famous painting called ‘The Kiss.' People crowd around it to take selfies, and it's the tour's highlight.

Belvedere Museum is located just outside the city center, and the best way to get there is by bus or tram as there are stops just outside it. Once you're in, you have choices: you can get tickets for the Upper Building, the Lower Building, or both. You can't bring bags inside, but there's a free cloakroom to leave your stuff.

The museum is photogenic, and you can take pictures inside and outside; there are many rooms to check out. A beautiful garden between the two buildings is also great for photos. In the summer, they even turn on the fountains in the garden.

9. The Hofburg

Try to get there early, like right when it opens, to avoid waiting. There are two lines inside: one to buy tickets and another if you've already got your ticket. To make it easier, consider buying your tickets online ahead of time. Once you're in, you get an audio guide with the ticket, and it's really helpful for learning stuff.

The tour is split into three main parts. First up is the Silver Collection. It's room after room of shiny pots, plates, and even some unique stuff like Napoleon's dinner set. If that's not your thing, you can move through it fast. Next is the Sisi exhibition, all about Empress Elisabeth. Her life was somewhat tragic, and the exhibition even slightly makes you think about Princess Diana. 

Lastly, you go through the Royal Apartments, which are just amazing to look at. You'll be in awe of the decor and the history. You cannot take pics in these rooms, but you can in the Silver Collection.

10. Visit the Zoo

If you are after fun things to do in Vienna, then the Zoo is the place for you. 

The giant pandas and the spectacled bear are some of the stars here, but there are plenty of the usual animals that you get at most zoos as well.

The zoo has a lot of cool areas, like a tree-top walk in the woods. Even if you don't spot any zoo animals up there, the view of the city is excellent, and it's a peaceful walk. The zoo also tries to teach you stuff, like boards with info about local animals, but they're mainly in German. There are also feeding talks for some animals like anteaters and tigers. These talks are in German, but watching the animals eat is still fun.

11. Natural History Museum

If you love anything to do with rocks, fossils, or animals, you've got to check out the Vienna Natural History Museum. The place is massive, and you could easily spend a few days exploring. Even if you're not into natural history, the building itself is impressive to look at. The museum makes it easy for everyone to learn, with most displays in both German and English.

You'll see a lot of interactive and hands-on stuff, not just boring signs. This is great for keeping kids (and adults) interested. One of the best parts? Seeing the kids' faces as they go through the museum. Priceless. Also, kids can enter for free.

12. Österreichische Nationalbibliothek

The place is full of history and awesome stuff like old frescos, statues, and even secret passages. It's all tied back to the Habsburg family. 

The library is vast, with over 12 million items. It's got four museums inside, focusing on different stuff like literature and globes. Tickets cost 10 Euros per person, and trust us, it's worth every cent.

13. Time Travel Vienna

Time Travel Vienna is one of the top things to see and do in Vienna and offers an engaging and educational journey through 2,000 years of Austria's history, all in a 50-minute interactive experience. Perfect for visitors of all ages, the attraction uses 5D effects and virtual tours to bring historical events to life. A particular highlight is the section dedicated to Vienna's famous composers, enhancing the overall narrative of the city's cultural significance.

The experience is reasonably priced and takes roughly an hour to complete. For those taking hop-on, hop-off bus tours in Vienna, visiting Time Travel Vienna beforehand can provide helpful context for the landmarks you'll see later.

14. Haus der Musik

Despite its small size, the museum packs a lot in, making it an essential stop for anyone interested in music or looking for a fun outing. Visitors can explore various rooms filled with information about renowned composers.

The virtual orchestra on the top floor is a standout feature of the museum. Here, you can take up the conductor's baton and lead the Vienna Philharmonic through various musical pieces. Whether you visit on a weekday morning or a weekend evening, you'll find the museum comfortably uncrowded, allowing ample space to engage with all the exhibits.

15. Aqua Terra Zoo

Inside the Aqua Terra Zoo is a multi-level wonderland of aquatic and terrestrial life. Spanning ten floors, this high-rise zoo is more than just an aquarium and is one of the best things to do with kids in Vienna.

Guests are greeted with various exhibits, from touch pools and an engaging Croc Park to a rainforest walkway filled with playful monkeys. Whether you're fascinated by anacondas or enamored by exotic fish, there's something for every wildlife enthusiast. The venue is particularly notable for its diverse animals, including marine creatures, birds, and mammals.

While the venue features multiple levels, visitors can climb the steps for a more immersive experience or conveniently use the lift. And when you're ready for a break, the panoramic cafe at the top offers a perfect respite. Here, you can enjoy great beer and delicious food while taking a stunning 360° view of Vienna from the rooftop terrace.

16. Danube Tower

Danube Tower, or “Donauturm,” offers a unique way to great views of Vienna. With an entrance fee of €15, some might find it a bit expensive, especially if you plan to dine there. However, the tower is included if you have a Vienna Pass, making it a more accessible experience.

Upon arrival, guests are whisked up in a smooth, fast lift with a glass ceiling—an unexpected but delightful touch.

The café offers a good selection of local dishes at reasonable prices. Favorites like Wiener schnitzel and apple strudel are available, and the service is fast and friendly. Pair this culinary experience with the tower's panoramic views of Vienna, and you have a memorable outing. 

Getting to the Danube Tower is also fairly easy and affordable. An Uber ride from the city center costs around €8, and the wait time for a return trip is generally short.

Related: 12 European Cities That Offer The High Quality of Life

I’m Steve. I’m an English Teacher, traveler, and an avid outdoorsman. If you’d like to comment, ask a question, or simply say hi, leave me a message here, on Twitter (@thefrugalexpat1). Many of my posts have been written to help those in their journey to financial independence. I am on my journey, and as I learn more I hope to share more.  And as always, thanks for reading The Frugal Expat.

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Visiting Vienna

My top 10 places to visit in Vienna

Some folk ask me for my personal suggestions for where to go in the city, given I spend hundreds of hours wandering the streets to bring you this website. So here are my top ten places to visit in Vienna…

• Book a concert experience * for your trip
• Sightseeing in Vienna
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A lot depends on your interests, of course. Mine is mostly history of one kind or another. And art. And coffee. And, um, cake. So in no particular order…

(You might also like to explore my suggested authentic experiences , too.)

1. Wander around the centre

(Vienna’s Graben with the plague column in the distance on the left)

If that sounds a bit lame, then I don’t apologise.

Look, Vienna is a beautiful historical city. Every few paces seems to bring a palace, monument, church, or a building with the kind of costly decorative façade you just don’t get today.

So let your feet take you along the pedestrianised routes and enjoy the view.

Here’s my suggested walking tour route for the centre, which begins at the Staatsoper opera house and takes about 90 minutes (without breaks for photos, reading, ice creams etc.).

Do wander along little alleyways and parallel streets on the way to escape any crowds and experience those extra architectural delights that most people hurrying from A to B won’t see.

2. Café Central or…

(No prize for guessing the name of this coffee house)

As you wander, be sure to drop in somewhere for that coffee and cake I’m so fond of. That’s pretty much top of my recommended experiences .

The traditional Viennese coffee house is one of humanity’s better creations.

As places for conversation and contemplation, these cafés have produced great art and literature, catalysed political and philosophical movements, and precipitated the rise and fall of empires. (I’m only slightly exaggerating.)

The question is…where do you drop into?

Everyone recommends Café Central or Café Sacher , so you might expect them to be full of visitors.

And they are.

Queues to get into both are common. To be safe, reserve a table or visit first thing in the morning.

Café Central, in particular, offers some mind-blowing interior décor, as if you just walked into a film set. Café Sacher actually served as a recent film set .

But plenty of other locations offer traditional and alternative Viennese coffee and cake experiences: try some of these coffee houses . Take a book to read (or a pen and paper to write your own).

3. The Hundertwasser Museum

(The Kunst Haus Wien: home to the Hundertwasser Museum)

Many people have heard of Hundertwasserhaus , the apartment block designed by the artist, Friedensreich Hundertwasser. And it’s a fine place to visit, with its colours, curves, murals, spirals, and trees poking out at odd angles.

But there are too many souvenir outlets around there for me. So I’d rather go to the Kunst Haus Wien .

The building is all Hundertwasser, but with fewer onlookers. And you can actually go inside, where you’ll discover a large and wonderful collection of his art (not to mention a fabulous café and special art exhibitions & installations on green themes).

So much colour and joy in one place.

4. The palaces, of course

(View from the Schönbrunn palace entrance at Christmas)

There’s a solid reason why Schönbrunn Palace is Vienna’s most popular tourist spot. It’s lovely, and a tour through the interior is a tour through some pretty impressive European history.

Visit in the early morning, when the park gates are open but the ticket office isn’t. Then pop round the back, walk up to behind the Neptune Fountain and look down at the landscaped gardens and palace when empty of visitors.

What a glorious sight.

I love the zoo there, too (one of the world’s best). It has giant pandas. Giant. Pandas.

Elsewhere, the two Belvedere palaces offer some photo-worthy Baroque architecture. More importantly, they also offer some world-leading art (see suggestion 7 below).

5. The Kunstkammer

(The KHM at night)

The Kunsthistorisches Museum (KHM) contains more artistic treasures than you can shake a priceless Bruegel at (they have several of those). Everything from Rembrandts to Roman gold.

But the real magic lives in the Kunstkammer section, home to a Cabinet of Curiosities collected by various Habsburgs over the centuries.

Stuff in there takes your breath away.

For example, view glorious bronze statues by Giambologna, biblical scenes carved into wood the size of a key fob, 16th-century mechanical ships, golden salt and pepper pots worth millions, and so much more.

6. Volksgarten Rose Garden

(A huge mix of colours and varieties)

I like roses.

Imagine row after row of different varieties all put together to create a blast of colour to a backdrop of 19th-century imperial opulence?

That’s the rose garden in the Volksgarten park . Again, be sure to go early when nobody is around (and go in summer, when the roses are out, otherwise all you get is a small park).

7. The MAK and more

(The MAK at night with the MAKlite light installation)

Vienna has a lot of top-quality museums . But I have a particular soft spot for the MAK Museum . You can feel the love for what they do in this showcase of applied art and design.

I come away enthused and rejuvenated every time I visit (and I’m a miserable 56 year-old with the attention span of a gnat).

Since we’re on the subject of museums, a shout-out again for Belvedere , not least because it has Austria’s most famous piece of art inside. It might be considered rude to visit Vienna and not catch a look at Klimt’s The Kiss .

And another shout-out, this time for the Albertina for hosting perhaps the most prestigious art exhibitions .

8. A little spot on Heldenplatz

(View across the square to the Neue Burg)

It’s hard to get away from the modern world, but here’s something worth a try…

Go to Heldenplatz square and stand in front of the Neue Burg building just off the road that crosses the square from the Burgtor gates . Then do a 360° turn.

You might have to adjust your position a little and keep your eyes up to avoid any cars. But you should see a panorama largely unchanged since the late 19th century.

I get a kick out of that every time.

Of course, a construction crane or scaffolding might spoil the view. But you can use your imagination.

With any luck, a horse-drawn carriage will pass by to add a little aural authenticity to proceedings.

9. The Military History Museum

(The museum entrance)

I do like seeing items that offer a direct connection to the past (see suggestion 10). And the Heeresgeschichtliches Museum offers numerous such exhibits.

If we look back at history, we can describe one or two events as truly world-changing. One of them is the assassination of the Austrian Archduke, Franz Ferdinand, in Sarajevo. The incident led to World War I.

The car Franz Ferdinand was sitting in when he was shot is in the museum. And the clothes he wore, too…still stained.

That’s the kind of momentous history I’m talking about.

10. Mozart’s apartment

(A plaque outside a house Mozart lived in)

Which brings me to Mozart’s Apartment . You have celebrities and then you have Mozart. Perhaps the most famous composer of all time.

So can you imagine standing in the very same room he stood in?

Can you imagine looking out the window at the very same view he once admired?

Can you imagine humming The Marriage of Figaro in your head on the very same spot Mozart actually wrote the opera?

No imagination is required.

Take a few steps down, and you can even listen to a live performance of works Mozart wrote at the same location.

Vienna is full of such experiences (cough, Beethoven , cough, Haydn , cough Strauss , and many more ), but the Mozartwohnung and surrounding Mozarthaus are perhaps the most impressive of them.

11. Christmas in Vienna

(The Christmas market in front of Upper Belvedere palace)

One more tip than promised.

If you can, go to Vienna during the Christmas season . A special atmosphere pervades the place, full of lights and wisps of steam from mugs of punch.

Try the Belvedere Christmas Market after dusk for a wonderful photo opportunity. Or any market, frankly.

Even professional cynics like me can’t help but enjoy chocolate-coated fruit, roast chestnuts, good cheer, and the chance to buy a remarkably-lovely handmade item for some ungrateful relative.

And the rest…

For more ideas, a couple of other articles for you:

• What to do in a day : a guide to where to invest your time best if here for a brief visit, organised by themes like “history” or “art”
• Introduction to Vienna : a detailed overview of what the city’s all about, what it has to offer, and how to get around the place

What is Special About Vienna? Here are 27 Cool Things to Do in the Austrian Capital

• Post last modified: April 24, 2024
• Post author: Danielle Zito
• Post published: September 28, 2023
• Post category: Europe / Guides

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Having visited almost 10 years ago, Vienna is a place I knew I needed to get back to. When my family and friends asked for the best things to do in Vienna, I couldn't even remember! So that was my cue to go back, and I'm so glad we recently added it as a stop on our European road trip.

Vienna has a special place in my heart, because the first time I went I was in a toxic relationship with a guy who would try to prevent me from traveling. I decided to end things, and grabbed my phone to open Skyscanner . I looked up the most affordable place to travel that day, and Vienna it was. I ran to the airport, and had one of the best weekends ever.

But other than my experience, what is special about Vienna? Well, it's full of history, stunning architecture, and some of the most beautiful cafes in the world. We've had a lot of people ask us recently whether they should go to Prague or Vienna, or to choose between Budapest or Vienna. We think there are so many great things to do in Vienna, and reasons to visit, so we'll give you all the info, and let you decide for yourself.

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Where is Vienna?

Vienna is the capital city of Austria, and is located in the east of the country. Austria is a landlocked country in Central Europe, which is bordered by Germany to the north west, the Czech Republic to the north east, Slovakia and Hungary to the east, Slovenia to the south, Italy to the south west, and Liechtenstein to the west.

Due to its proximity to other nearby capitals, it is often traveled to in addition to Prague , Budapest , or Bratislava.

Vienna is located in the east of Austria, in central Europe.

What is the Best Way to Get to Vienna, Austria?

Being located smack in the middle of Europe, Vienna is an extremely convenient city to travel to, whether you are flying from another European city, driving, or taking public transportation.

Where Do You Fly Into for Vienna?

Vienna has its own airport, which is located just 20 km (12.5 miles) outside the city center. Many cities around Europe, as well as a few cities outside Europe fly direct to Vienna, and you can find a lot of budget flights to get there.

European cities that fly direct to Vienna include Alicante, Altenrhein, Amsterdam, Antalya, Athens, Baku, Banja Luka, Barcelona , Bari , Basel, Belgrade , Berlin, Billund, Bologna, Bourgas, Brussels, Bucharest , Budapest , Cagliari, Catania, Chisinau, Cologne, Copenhagen , Corfu, Dublin , Dubrovnik , Dusseldorf, Edinburgh ,  Faro, Florence , Frankfurt, Funchal, Hamburg , Hanover, Helsinki, Heraklion, Geneva, Gran Canaria , Graz, Iasi, Ibiza, Innsbruck, Istanbul , Izmir, Karpathos,  Kefallinia, Klagenfurt, Kos, Kosice, Krakow, Kutaisi , Larnaca , Leipzig, Lisbon , London, Luxembourg , Lyon, Madrid , Malaga, Mallorca, Malta, Manchester, Marseille, Milan , Modlin, Munich, Mykonos, Naples, Nantes, Nice, Nuremberg, Ohrid , Oslo, Palermo, Paphos , Paris, Podgorica, Prague , Pristina , Rhodes, Riga, Rome , Santander, Santorini, Sarajevo, Sibiu, Skopje , Sofia , Split, Stockholm, Stuttgart, Tallinn , Tenerife , Thessaloniki , Tirana , Venice, Vilnius, Warsaw, Yerevan, Zadar , Zagreb , Zakinthos, and Zurich .

Cities outside of Europe that fly direct to Vienna include Abu Dhabi , Addis Ababa, Almaty, Amman, Ankara, Bangkok , Cairo, Chicago , Delhi, Doha, Dubai , Erbil, Houston, Hurghada, Izmir, Jeddah, Los Angeles , Newark, New York , Riyadh, Seoul, Taipei, Tehran, Tel Aviv, Tokyo,  Toronto, and Washington.

Alternative Flight Options

Can't find your city, or flights are too expensive for your dates? You can also try looking for flights at nearby airports such as Bratislava, Brno, Prague , or Budapest . (We'll go over how to get from those cities to Vienna next.)

Flight Tip:  Using Skyscanner you can use the "everywhere" option to find the cheapest flights at surrounding airports! 

Search for a flight to Vienna or nearby:

How to Get from Vienna Airport to Vienna City Center

It is super easy to get to the city of Vienna from the airport.

• The fastest way to get from Vienna Airport to the city center is by taking the City Airport Train (CAT), which is a direct trip getting you there in 16 minutes. Tickets are €14,90 for a one way or €24,90 for a roundtrip. Trains from the airport run every 30 minutes, starting at 6:08 am, and run until 11:38 pm. Trains back to the airport start running from 5:37 am, and run until 11:07 pm.
• The cheapest way to get to the city center of Vienna from the airport is by taking the OBB Railjet . Tickets are €4,40 each way, or €2 with the Vienna City Card, and it's a 15 minute ride to the central station. Trains run every 30 minutes from the airport starting at 6:33 am until 11:03 pm. Trains back to the airport start running at 5:42 am, and go until 10:12 pm.
• Other options for getting to the center include a rental car , taxi , or Uber .

Other Ways to Get to Vienna

If you are coming from a nearby city, you may not need to fly! Luckily, Vienna is such a well-connected city, and you can easily find several options for getting to Vienna from plenty of other cities within Austria, or other nearby countries.

Trains to Vienna

Trains are the most convenient and comfortable option when it comes to traveling in this area of Europe. Here are a few popular train rides you can look into.

Domestic trains to Vienna:

• Hallstatt to Vienna
• Innsbruck to Vienna
• Salzburg to Vienna

International trains to Vienna:

• Brno to Vienna
• Bratislava to Vienna
• Budapest to Vienna
• Krakow to Vienna
• Munich to Vienna
• Prague to Vienna
• Warsaw to Vienna

Buses to Vienna

Buses are another great option if you don't find an affordable train, or one that fits your timetable. They are typically a bit longer of a trip, but oftentimes have more affordable rates. Here are links for the bus options for each city.

Domestic buses to Vienna:

International buses to Vienna:

Another final option for getting to Vienna is by checking on the app BlaBla Car. It allows you to connect with people who are already riding from your city to whichever city you plan on traveling to, by booking a seat in their car. We use this typically when we can't find a good train or bus option.

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Entry Regulations for Austria

Now that you know all of the options for the best way to get to Vienna, let's double check that you have all the right documents.

Visa Entry Requirements: Do You Need a Visa to Go to Austria?

Austria is part of the EU and the Schengen Zone. This means that if you are a nationality that requires a Schengen Visa, you will need to get one before visiting Austria.

It also means that if you are going to be visiting from one of the neighboring countries (Germany, Italy , Hungary , Slovenia, or Slovakia) or any of the other countries in the Schengen Zone at all, you will have free travel. However, this also means you will need to keep the 90/180 rule in mind!

What is the 90/180 Rule?

The 90/180 rule applies to all countries which are in the Schengen Zone in Europe. The rule states that you can only spend up to 90 days within a 180-day period inside the Schengen Zone. 

These 90 days are applicable for all countries within the Schengen area, which means if you spend 45 days in Spain (also part of the Schengen Zone), you will then only be able to spend a total of 45 days in Austria (or other countries that apply).

We use the  Schengen visa calculator , which is extremely helpful for those who are planning on traveling around Europe for a longer period of time.

Covid Entry Requirements: Does Austria Require a Covid Test to Enter the Country?

Covid is finally a thing of the past in Europe, so you won't have to worry about taking any Covid tests or presenting any vaccination certificates in order to enter Austria, or any other countries within in the EU.

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Local Adjustments for Visiting Vienna

Whenever traveling somewhere new you'll encounter things to adjust to such as language, plug types, or a different tipping culture. Here are some useful things to keep in mind while visiting Vienna.

What Language is Spoken in Vienna?

The language spoken in Vienna, and the rest of Austria, is Austrian German.

Is it ok to speak English in Vienna?

There are a ton of people that speak English in Vienna. Depending on where you go, and who you speak with, will depend on whether or not English will be prevalent. We found that there were a ton of people who spoke English, but also quite a few that did not, or did not want to. 

Many restaurants did have English menus, but the most traditional ones may only have the menu in German. We suggest picking up a few of the basics in German, in order to have a more pleasant visit and be more well-received by the locals.

What Currency is Used in Vienna?

The currency used in Vienna is the euro.

Can You Use USD in Vienna?

You cannot use USD in Vienna. We suggest heading to a local ATM to take out some Euros, although the majority of places do accept credit card.

Is Vienna Expensive?

Vienna is so much more expensive than the first time that I visited! Other surrounding capitals such as Prague , Budapest , and Bratislava are much more budget-friendly, so you'll definitely want to put some extra money aside for all of the things to do in Vienna.

Outlets: What Plug is Used in Vienna?

Austria uses the same plug types as the rest of Europe , which are types C, E, & F. The standard voltage in Austria is 220 V and the standard frequency is 50 Hz.

Water Potability: Is it ok to Drink Tap Water in Vienna?

The tap water is extremely clean and safe to drink in Vienna, and all throughout Austria. For some odd reason though, the Viennese are not keen on serving tap water, and some will even charge you for it! (Always make sure to ask).

We suggest bringing your own reusable water bottle and filling up at whatever taps you can find in order to avoid extortionate water fees in supermarkets or restaurants.

If you do purchase bottled water, be aware that most of the bottles you'll find will be sparkling! Always double check the label before buying.

Tipping Culture: Is Tipping Customary in Vienna, Austria?

The tipping culture in Austria is pretty flexible. Austrians tend to round up, rather than calculating a certain percentage of the bill. It's pretty typical to tip between 5-15% of your bill.

Note: Something we noticed in Vienna is the service overall is pretty awful. Not only can wait times get pretty high, but many servers seem simply miserable and annoyed by tourists. This isn't the case 100% of the time, but if you do encounter service like this, don't let it bother you too much, as it's pretty common there.

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What is Vienna Famous For?

So exactly what is Vienna famous for? This city is actually referred to the city of music, and was the birthplace or residence of a lot of talented classical musicians. Vienna is particularly proud of Mozart, and you'll find him all over the place.

The Austrian capital is also famous for the Hapsburg Family, which is the center of the history of the city of Vienna, and is involved with a ton of the top highlights and things to do in Vienna.

Want to know what Vienna is famous for also but the Viennese do not like to claim? It's where Hitler was denied from art school. Of course this a sore subject for the locals, but also an interesting topic to learn about while visiting Vienna.

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The Best Things to Do in Vienna

Now that you know what Vienna is famous for, let's talk about all of the great things to do in Vienna!

The Best Things to Do in Vienna #1: Take a Free Walking Tour

There are so many things to see and do in Vienna that it can be overwhelming. The best way to be able to see the highlights and learn about the history though is by taking a tour. 

We love free walking tours because the guides are usually super fun and energetic, making the tours way more interesting than the traditional ones. They work on a tipping basis, so you get to decide how much to give. These guides typically give great tips for other things to see in the city, as well hidden gems to check out.

For walking tours we always use  GuruWalk , as they connect you with local tour guides around the world, and are easy to make bookings with.

Free walking tours give you insight into all the details around the city.

The Best Things to Do in Vienna #2: Admire the Architecture

Vienna is seriously one of the most stunning cities, and the architecture is just next level. Other than visiting all the highlights, we definitely suggest walking around and paying attention to the beauty of the buildings all around the city.

Vienna is full of stunning architecture.

The Best Things to Do in Vienna #3: Dive into the Cafe Culture

One thing that Vienna is particularly known for is its cafe culture. The city is full of gorgeous cafes serving great coffee and local pastries to try out. We'll dive into some of the best ones to try out in our food & drink section of the article.

Vienna is known for its beautiful cafes.

The Best Things to Do in Vienna #4: Attend an Opera Concert

Being known for its music, it's no surprise that opera is a prominent part of Vienna's culture, The opera hall is definitely a place you'll want to visit, and going for a show is a must! Unfortunately in August they close for the month, so we didn't get to experience it, but it's definitely on the list for the next visit.

Something really cool about the opera is that they never have the same show two days in a row, so they actually have to change sets twice a day! There is also an underground passage leading there from the nearby yellow building, and they have 9 km of costumes.

Another fun fact is that the performers in the opera lose about 5-8 kilos during each show! If that doesn't make you intrigued to see a show, then I don't know what will.

The opera is one of Vienna's most iconic places.

The Best Things to Do in Vienna #5: Visit the Hofburg Palace

The Hofburg Palace was the former residence of the famous Hapsburg family, and is located right in the heart of the city. It is so massive that it has over 2,000 rooms, and 7 underground passages.

We definitely suggest getting a tour of the palace to get a better insight of all that is there, and take some time to walk around the gardens, which are free of charge to visit.

The Best Things to Do in Vienna #6: Stop by the Mozart Statue

Right inside the gardens of the Hofburg Palace is one of the most famous statues in the city of Vienna. The Mozart statue is a tribute to the famous musician. and also has a large musical note in front of it made from flowers.

The Best Things to Do in Vienna #7: Pop Into the Butterfly House

Located right next to the Hofburg Palace is a bit of a hidden gem. The butterfly house is not only cool to see, but it has a great cafe to enjoy breakfast, or some wine at sunset.

The Butterfly House has a great cafe to check out.

The Best Things to Do in Vienna #8: Look for the White Horses

Vienna is known for their famous white horses. The Lippazaners are known as the dancing horses of the city, and have been a special breed training and performing at Vienna's Spanish Riding School for over 450 years.

If you're lucky and the weather is perfect, you can actually see the horses next to the palace between 9 and 9:30 am.

The white horses are usually at the riding school, but on occasion you can find them outside Hofburg Palace.

The Best Things to Do in Vienna #9: Walk Around Maria-Theresian-Platz

Maria-Theresian-Platz is one of the most popular squares of Vienna, and is where you can find the museum quarter meeting with Ringstrasse. Check out the famous statue, visit the museums, or simply admire the beauty of all of the buildings in this area.

The Best Things to Do in Vienna #10: Go to Shonbrunn Palace

The Shonbrunn Palace is one of the top sites in Vienna. It was originally the summer residence of the Hapsburg family, and now visiting there is one of the most popular things to do in the city. It is located outside the city center, but can be easily reached by public transportation.

The Best Things to Do in Vienna #11: Roam the Palm House Gardens

The Shonbrunn Palace has some really beautiful gardens that are free to visit. But if you'd like to experience something a bit more, there are also green houses that you can see called the Palm House Gardens.

The Best Things to Do in Vienna #12: Stop by St Stephen's Cathedral

We all know that any trip to a European city includes a church or two, and St Stephen's Cathedral is definitely one of the most beautiful in Vienna with its Gothic style. It's located right in the heart of the city center, and connects the main pedestrian streets of Vienna.

St Stephens Cathedral is the most beautiful church in Vienna.

The Best Things to Do in Vienna #13: Check Out the Vienna City Courthouse

If you're looking for a true hidden gem, then make sure to head to the Vienna City Courthouse. While it may just seem like a municipal budding from the outside, it is truly impressive inside, and definitely worth a visit. It's free of charge to enter, and you'll just need to go through a security check . (PS: no tripods are allowed).

The Best Things to Do in Vienna #14: Explore Albertina

The Albertina is one of the most famous things to see in Vienna, and is typically a place that a lot of tours will just walk by.

The museum is massive, and is home to over a million collections of artwork. Locals will recommend dedicating at least one full day to the museum. We aren't big museum lovers, but if you are then you'll definitely want to save a good amount of time for this one.

The Albertina Museum has enough to see for an entire day!

The Best Things to Do in Vienna #15: Admire the Albrechtsbrunnen

Right underneath the Albertina Museum and across from the opera house is a stunning fountain called the Albrechtsbrunnen. This is popular meeting point for any tours in Vienna, and is also a gorgeous spot to take a quick picture.

The Best Things to Do in Vienna #16: Roam Around Hero Square

This is the biggest square in the city, and is located right in front of Hofburg Palace. Definitely make sure to stop here and admire the gardens, fountains, and statues on site.

Hero Square is home to the famous Hofburg Palace.

The Best Things to Do in Vienna #17: Visit the Twin Museums

Right across the street from Hero Square are two important museums in the city. Known as the twin museums, one is the national history museum, and the other is an art museum with mostly classical art. The history museum is home to the worlds largest collection of meteorites, and the art museum has a nice cafe worth checking out.

The Best Things to Do in Vienna #18: Hundertwasserhaus

Looking for something a little different? While most of the things to do in Vienna have to do with elegant architecture and history, this attraction is a fun and quirky one. Hundertwasserhaus is just a bit outside the center, and is an apartment building full of different colors that has now become a popular spot for tourists.

The Best Things to Do in Vienna #19: Explore Belvedere Palace

Hofburg Palace is the most popular palace in Vienna, and Shonnbrunn is also quite well-known.

Belvedere Palace is one that often gets overlooked, but it really is worth a visit! It is actually two palaces adjoined on one property, and has a large series of gardens as well. Located right outside the center, we suggest also pairing this with a visit to Hundertwasserhaus.

The Best Things to Do in Vienna #20: Stop by St Charles Church

If you're looking for some beautiful buildings, then St Charles church is definitely a place worth stopping by. With its gorgeous green domes and big fountain in the front, it's one of the most Instagrammable spots in Vienna.

The Best Things to Do in Vienna #21: Check Out Michaelerplatz

This star-shaped plaza is the intersection of a lot of major streets in Vienna, and a popular point of interest for reaching some of the best things to do in Vienna. Not only that, but it is full of beautiful buildings, and some gorgeous fountains worth checking out.

The Best Things to Do in Vienna #22: Walk Through the Ferstel Passage

The stunning Fersel passage is an enclosed path inside a building that is real gem of Vienna. With a variety of upscale shops and cafes, definitely pop by and check out this beautiful area.

The Best Things to Do in Vienna #23: Enjoy the Activities at Rathausplatz

The square in front of the city hall is home to the biggest celebrations in Vienna. Whether it's the film festival in August or the Christmas market in December, there are so many great events taking place at Rathausplatz. Definitely swing by and see if you can catch an event there!

The Best Things to Do in Vienna #24: Go to Church Votivkirche

Another beautiful architectural piece right in the heart of Vienna is Church Votivkirche. It was actually built as a tribute to God for saving the life of emperor Franz Joseph after an attempted assassination.

The Best Things to Do in Vienna #25: Admire the Austrian National Library

Here is another beautiful hidden gem to check out in Vienna. The National Library may just be one of the most stunning libraries in the world! It's 10 euros to enter, and we suggest booking your ticket in advance, as we weren't able to get one when we showed up. While we didn't get to see everything, we did get a peak in and it was simply stunning.

The Best Things to Do in Vienna #26: Sail Down the Danube

Vienna is situated right along the Danube River, which is one of the most popular bodies of water for doing river cruises in Europe.

If you aren't cruising to Vienna, you should definitely check out one of the many boat trips that are offered. It'll give you a chance to experience Europe's biggest river, while admiring the city from a different angle. Some boats even have dinner and drinks included!

The Best Things to Do in Vienna #27: Take a Day Trip to Bratislava

Did you know that the capital of Slovakia is just a quick ride away from Vienna? If you've already done most of the best things to do in Vienna, we definitely suggest making a quick trip to Bratislava. It's small, but very charming, and easy to walk around. It has a beautiful castle on a hilltop, it's located along the river, and also has a cool tower with a rotating restaurant.

You can easily get a train from Vienna to Bratislava , and be there in just 45 minutes!

Want a more complete package? Here are some fun tours that go to Bratislava that you can sign up for.

Local Food & Drink in Vienna

Now that you know all of the best things to do in Vienna, let's dive into the food scene! 

What is the Traditional Food in Vienna?

The food in Vienna is very similar to the cuisines of some of the surrounding countries, such as Slovakia, the Czech Republic , Hungary , and Germany . The Austrian cuisine is very big on sausages, stews, and they have a big array of pastries and cakes.

Here are a few things you should try while in Vienna:

• Apfelstrudel : the traditional apple dessert with a flaky crust
• Sachertorte : an iconic chocolate cake with a layer of apricot jam
• Wienerschnitzel : breaded and fried meat cutlet- the traditional one is made with veal, but you can now find pork, chicken, or a variety of other options.
• Frankfurter : the original Vienna sausage, similar to a hot dog
• Kasekrainer : a thicker sausage with cheese stuffed inside
• Bratwurst : the classic German sausage
• Debreziner : lightly smoked sausage with paprika, giving it a red color
• Goulash : tender beef in a thick gravy with onions - served more like a stew rather than the Hungarian goulash which is more of a soup

Vienna is known for its sausages and its cafe culture.

The Best Cafes (& Restaurants) in Vienna

There are an endless amount of amazing cafes and restaurants in Vienna. Here are a few of our top recommendations:

• Cafe Central: the most famous cafe in the city
• Demel: the fanciest cafe in town
• Cafe Sacher: one of the most beautiful cafes in Vienna
• Cafe Hawelka: an old time cafe known for its sweet rolls
• Cafe Restaurant Braunerhof: a local recommendation for an authentic Austrian experience
• Figlmüller Bäckerstraße: home to the original schnitzel
• NeunDreiviertel: Harry Potter themed bar
• Adlerhof Cafe: a beautiful cafe full of greenery inside and a cute spiral staircase

Adlerhof Cafe is one of our favorite cafes in Vienna.

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What is the Best Way to Get Around Vienna?

You may have realized that there are a ton of things to do in Vienna! It's actually a pretty big city, so we're going to help you get around in the best way possible.

Is Vienna a Walkable City?

Most of the top things to do in Vienna can certainly be reached on foot, and this is personally our favorite way to get around. As far as the city center goes, we definitely suggest starting on one end of the city, and making your way by walking as much as possible.

Driving in Vienna

While we tried to walk most of Vienna, there were quite a few places on the outskirts of the center where we couldn't get to on foot. We decided to rent a car in Romania for a 2-month road trip, so we had a car while we were in Vienna.

Do You Need a Car in Vienna?

We'll be honest we really didn't like having a car in Vienna, but do think it's a good option if you plan on doing a lot of day trips.

Is it Easy to Drive in Vienna?

Driving and parking in Vienna isn't really that fun, so we would suggest parking outside the city center, and using the car for some of the things to do in Vienna that are outside the center, like Belvedere Palace, Shonbrunn Palace, and Hundertwasserhaus.

Wherever you are, be careful where you park. Sometimes it can be a little confusing, and you don't want to end up with a parking ticket like we did for not double checking. (There are certain areas only locals can park so be aware of this).

Public Transport in Vienna

If you don't want to rent a car in Vienna, but want to visit some of the things to do in Vienna outside the city center, you can always rely on the public transportation.

The four types of public transportation that Vienna offers are:

•  U-Bahn (subway)
• Schnellbahn or S-Bahn (local trains) 
• Straßenbahn (trams)
• Autobus (buses)

Is Public Transport in Vienna Free?

Vienna, as well as many other Austrian cities, work on an honors system. There aren't any gates or ticket checks, but it certainly is not free. (The only country we know of that has free public transportation is Luxembourg ).

Private Transport in Vienna

If you aren't comfortable getting around with public transportation in Vienna, you can also rely on getting private transportation.

Is Uber Available in Vienna?

Uber is available in Vienna, so if you have a specific place you want to go and would rather pay with a credit card, this is the easiest option.

Taking Taxis in Vienna

Taxis are also available all around the city of Vienna, but this is definitely one of the most expensive options to get around, and not necessarily one that we'd recommend.

Bicycle Taxis in Vienna

Want to get quickly from one place to another in a more fun way? Well, you can easily find a bicycle taxi around some of the most popular things to do in Vienna. It's probably the most expensive option, but it's definitely a unique way to see the city if your feet are tired from all of the exploring.

Bicycle taxis are one of the most fun ways to get around the city.

*PLEASE DO NOT TAKE THE CARRIAGES! 

It may seem cute or romantic to ride around in a carriage pulled by a horse, but it is cruel for the horse, and a really outdated way to enjoy the city. Please refrain from contributing to this, so that hopefully one day they will stop using horses for this recreational activity.

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Where to Stay in Vienna, Austria

Now that you know the best things to do in Vienna and where to eat, let's figure out where to stay!

What Part of Vienna is Best to Stay in?

Vienna is a pretty big city, but most of the best things to do in Vienna are located in the city center. When looking for a place to stay, we suggest searching for Innere Stadt, which is the heart of the city.

The best area to stay in Vienna is Innere Statd, which is where the best things to do in Vienna are.

Recommended Hotels in Vienna

We've decided to round up the best hotels to stay in the city center, for any type of budget you may have.

Budget-friendly Hotel Recommendations in Vienna

• CH Hostel: the most budget-friendly option, located right in the heart of Vienna
• Pension Lehrerhaus: simple but sufficient, and also has a courtyard
• Central Living- Stefansdom Apartments: affordable apartments with kitchens

Mid-Range Hotel Recommendations in Vienna

• HeyMi Apartments: stylish apartments in the city center with kitchens and washing machines
• Grand Hotel Wien: beautiful hotel with rooftop terrace, spa, and a variety of restaurants and bars
• Hotel Josefshof am Rathaus: has a nice courtyard and great breakfast selection

Luxury Hotel Recommendations in Vienna

• DO&CO Hotel Vienna: an elegant hotel located right in front of St Stephens Cathedral with excellent views and great restaurants
• Hotel Sacher Wien: one of the most famous hotels, known for its art collection and incredible cafe, and is located across from the opera house
• Palais Coburg Hotel: has a great spa with an indoor pool, and guests get champagne and fruit assortments upon arrival

Sacher Cafe Is part of the famous Sacher Hotel.

Is Vienna a Safe City?

Vienna is a super safe city to visit! Like most big cities, you'll always want to keep an eye out for pickpockets. But other than some petty crime, Vienna is a beautiful and safe place to explore.

Is it Safe to Walk Around Vienna at Night?

It is perfectly safe to walk around Vienna at night! The first time I visited as a 23 year old girl traveling solo, and I felt completely safe. Walking around as a couple in our thirties, we also felt very comfortable.

Is Vienna Friendly to Tourists?

We hate to say this, but we truly did not feel that the Viennese were very friendly towards tourists. The city itself is very well-established for tourism, and you can certainly meet lovely people, but as far as friendliness, we definitely have found other nearby cities to be better at this.

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Other Things to Know About Visiting Vienna

Now you know all of the best things to do in Vienna, how to get around, and almost everything you need to know. But don't go yet! Here are a few last things you may want to keep in mind.

Weather in Vienna

Vienna is notorious for having pretty terrible weather, even sometimes in the summer! The city receives a lot of wind from the alps, and gets pretty chilly. When we visited in August, it was surprisingly cold and wet, and we learned that this is pretty common.

Vienna is a city that has four seasons. However, it used to receive a lot more snow, and now it mostly just rains. The Austrian capital typically has 6 months of cold weather, and 6 months of mild and warmer temperatures.

What is the Best Month to Visit Vienna?

In our opinion, the two best months to visit Vienna are in June and in December. We like June as it a warm month, and you can really enjoy walking around the city. July is too crowded and expensive, and in August it's crowded, but a lot of important things close like the Opera.

December is also a fabulous month to visit Vienna because you can experience the incredible Christmas market that they have!

Packing For a Trip to Vienna, Austria

When it comes to packing for a trip to Vienna, it really depends on what time of year you plan on going. However, here is our list of some of the things that you should consider bringing:

• Reusable Water Bottle  (we use  this water bottle from Cafago  because it holds the temperature)
• Umbrella (it tends to rain a lot)
• Jacket (even a light one if you visit in the warmer months)
• Comfortable shoes  for exploring the city 
• Trendy clothing  to wear out at night
• Zippered Bag or Backpack  (to secure your belongings) - take a look at these  backpacks for travelers!
• Power Bank  (we use  Anker power banks , as they are super long lasting and sturdy)
• Travel Adapter  if you are not from Europe (we use Tessan travel adapters )

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How Many Days is Best in Vienna?

With so many things to do in Vienna, we suggest visiting at least 2-3 days minimum, but really would recommend 4 days!

There are so many things to do in Vienna, that it definitely deserves quite a few days.

Is Vienna Worth Visiting?

Vienna is absolutely worth visiting! While the weather might not always be great, and service might not be the best, there are so many great things to do in Vienna. It is rich with history and culture, and it is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe!

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Travel Planning Tools

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So are you ready to explore all of the fun things to do in Vienna, Austria? We know you'll love this gorgeous city, and are happy to help if you need help organizing your stay.

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Unique Places In Vienna – A Fun Vienna Itinerary

Say ‘hallo’ to the summer city that took me by surprise. Hear what made this trip extra special, and a few of my favourite places to visit in Vienna! 

I’ve just spent a few days exploring Vienna in Austria. Before my trip, it wasn’t a city I’d associated with summer breaks. It’s so easy to package Austria into this neat little box of skiing, mountains and Christmas markets, with a touch of ‘the hills are alive’! Rather like my previous adventures in Austria (which took me to Graz, Innsbruck and Salzburg) – it’s a country that keeps surprising me. 

I visited the city for the Vienna Tourist Board’s intriguing campaign: #UnratingVienna . They’re on a mission to remind travellers that there’s more to travel than ratings and must-sees. The plan for my trip? Well.. there wasn’t one! It was time for me to discover the city on my own. I wouldn’t be checking Trip Advisor to find the best restaurants or racing around the city trying to tick off the top 10 attractions like the Schönbrunn Palace and the Natural History Museum. I’d be exploring with an open mind and seeing what I found naturally.

As part of the campaign they projected negative ratings and reviews of the Leopold Museum (one of the city’s most important art museums) onto the side of the building. Things like “1 star – no WiFi’ and “2 stars – mostly nudes”! Laughable reviews that bring down the museum’s overall ratings for the most insignificant reasons.

Not only was it a refreshing campaign to be part of, it was also a very confident one! Would I find great spots with zero research? Would I come back with my own recommendations? What if I wandered the city and didn’t find anything that appealed to me?

So… it turns out Vienna has LOTS to shout about, and while I may not have been the first to discover some of these spots, hopefully reading this post will inspire you to approach travel in a different way from time to time.

So what did I find? A swimming pool on a boat, summer beach bars, adorable cafes, independent stores, chic dinner spots and a huge amusement park! 

A Few Of My Favourite Discoveries In Vienna

Danube canal.

The temperatures were high during my visit in June, reaching 29 degrees during the day. I walked through the city centre to the Danube Canal, and was surprised by what I found.

There are paths on either side of the water, with backdrops of colourful murals and graffiti. Along the route are urban gardens and weird and wonderful sculptures. My favourite part though? How many ‘beach bars’ sit just beyond the water’s edge, each with deck chairs, cocktail menus and some even with real sand! It’s a lovely area to stop for a drink and watch the world go by.

I enjoyed a Hugo (elderflower spritz) at Adria Bar and sat back as Viennese locals passed by on their daily business. People watching is one of my favourite ways to get to know a place, and I felt like I’d found the ultimate spot! 

Another fascinating discovery was Badeschiff Wien , a large boat that’s home to a bar, restaurant and sunbathing areas, along with its very own floating pool! It looked like a great spot to relax in the sunshine. 

A city with its very own theme park in the centre! What’s not to love?! I spotted the ferris wheel during my walk along the Danube Canal and had to go and find out what was there. Sure enough, located within Prater (a large park area) is a big amusement park with lots of rides and games, along with places to eat and drink.

I LOVE that you don’t have to pay an expensive entrance fee. It’s free to explore the park, you simply pay for the rides you want to go on (most were around 5 EUR). I went on the Praterturm – the tallest swing in the world. It felt like I was flying over Vienna, plus the views were amazing!

Neubaugasse

This trendy Vienna neighbourhood is THE place for independent shops, vintage items and interesting places to eat and drink. Most of the action is on Neubaugasse Street, but I loved wandering along the side streets too.

My favourite finds included Felicitas (homeware store), Kitsch Bitch (statement tops, interesting clothes and lots of lovely jewellery) and Bootik 54 (vintage store).

Rose Garden

I visited Vienna at the start of June, which turned out to be when all of the beautiful roses in Volksgarten started to bloom. What a treat!

As I explored the garden, the air was filled with the most incredible floral scents. Roses bloomed in every shade of pink, red, orange and yellow, while lots of people relaxed on benches around the edge, taking in the colourful views.

Volksgarten is also home to a vibey cafe called Pavillon, just a few metres from the roses. In the summer they hold BBQs too – something I’d love to return for later the year. 

Cafe Culture

Vienna is famed for its cafe culture, and over the years, notable figures in music, writing, art and philosophy all met at the city’s grandest coffee houses. While I was expecting to see a number of these smart, classical style cafes I was pleasantly surprised to stumble across several in a more youthful style. Many have their own terraces and courtyards, perfect for al fresco experiences in the summer months.

My favourites include: Burgasse24 (a cool vintage store with its own café), Amerlingbeisel (a cute café tucked away in a courtyard with a leafy canopy), Cafe Latte (another hidden gem, with big orange lanterns hanging overhead) and Das Möbel Cafe  (a café dedicated to showing the works of independent deisgners). Or for something completely different, head to teeny tiny Kleines Cafe – one of the prettiest spots in the city.

Unique Restaurants In Vienna

There’s more to Vienna than schnitzel, dumplings and sachertorte… a lot more! Being such a cosmopolitan place, I felt I could feast on different cuisine every single day. As I wasn’t guided by reviews, I let myself wander until I found somewhere with a menu that appealed to me – thankfully I didn’t pick any duds!

Salonplafond

Design lovers will love dining at Salonplafond (and no doubt want to take a few photos too!) Located inside the Museum of Applied Arts, the mid-range restaurant has chic décor, with large vases of flowers, a pink and beige colour scheme and beautiful high ceilings. Continue through the dining room and you’ll find a sunny terrace, plus a casual area by the grass – perfect for balmy summer evenings. I tucked into a tasty burrata salad, which was served with rocket and a basil sorbet. It was absolutely divine!

Santos Neubau

I passed Santos Neubau during the day, and it planted the idea of tacos in my mind. By the evening, I couldn’t imagine eating anything else! Forget street food, this restaurant serves smart Mexican food, with a bit of a twist. The beed tacos I ordered arrived with generous portions of pulled beef, topped with spiralised vegetables and pomegranate seeds. I also sipped on a tasty ginger mojito – good value at just 6.90 EUR during happy hour.

One of Vienna’s prettiest dining spots, Palmenhaus is located in one of the old greenhouses overlooking Burggarten (a city centre park). It’s certainly a unique place to dine! The building is magnificent, filled with tall palm trees and foliage, and while prices are a little higher than other restaurants, the setting is unique. I was impressed with the reasonable lunch menu, with dishes under 12 EUR.

Die Rundbar

I was attracted to the brightly-coloured tables lining the pavement at Die Rundbar . A crowd in their early 20s sat enjoying the warm weather with cocktails and tapas-style plates. The Latin American inspired menu was filled with delicious sounding dishes, including tataki, ceviche and calamari

I couldn’t resist the ceviche, which was so tangy and flavoursome. Also the yucca fries with chimichurri were crispy on the outside and fluffy in the middle. Washed down with a fragrant mint and cardamom cocktail, it definitely felt as though summer had started in Vienna!

Nguyen’s Pho House

One of my favourite cuisines is Vietnamese. I’ve always adored the zingy flavours, deep broths and interesting raw ingredients. I visited Nguyen’s Pho House and tucked into a bowl of nourishing beef pho. It was flavoursome and filling, and very reasonable at just 8.50 EUR.

Where I Stayed In Vienna

25hours hotel vienna.

As a first time visitor to Vienna, this was a great place to stay. The brand has opened a number of hotels across Germany and Austria, and is known for its intriguing designs and cheeky approach. Above the entrance there’s even a sign saying ‘We are all mad here’! Inside are retro pinball machines, a wall of polaroid cameras and a retro photo booth dating back to the 1970s.

The rooms have a circus theme, with playful murals, unusual lighting fixtures and funny privacy notes to hang on your door (e.g. Beware there’s a monster behind this door). One of the best features is the  8 th floor bar, which has a magnificent panoramic terrace. It was a lovely spot to take in the cityscape over a tasty cocktail.

Click here to check availability at Vienna’s 25Hours Hotel and view the latest prices

And finally…

So what was it like exploring Vienna beyond the must-sees and ratings? Refreshing, interesting and rewarding. I discovered a lot of great places in just a few days. Plus there was something so special about having an open mind and not letting those who’ve visited before dictate my experiences. While no doubt you’ll want to see some of the key sights, it’s definitely liberating to let go of some of the planning.

Thanks to the Vienna Tourist Board for inviting me to experience the city as part of the #UnratingVienna campaign. If you’re looking to visit Vienna and want some inspiration for unusual things to do, be sure to spin the wheel here , and you’ll be rewarded with an intriguing place to visit. As always, all thoughts and opinions are my own.

Chloe Gunning

With a passion for food, fun and adventure, Chloe is the content creator behind one of the UK's top travel blogs Wanderlust Chloe. From volcano boarding in Nicaragua, to sailing around Sicily and eating her way around Japan, her travels have taken her to some of the coolest spots on the planet. Named Travel Influencer of the Year in 2022, Chloe regularly works with a number of tourism boards, producing inspirational travel content across multiple platforms. Find out more about Chloe here.

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31 AMAZING Things to do in Vienna [2023!]

As the capital of Austria, Vienna attracts many travelers throughout the year. The city has a reputation for Imperial palaces, marvelous artworks, and captivating buildings. It’s also known for its historically recognized past residents such as Sigmund Freud, Mozart, and Beethoven! All of this combined make for a fascinating visit.

While simply walking through the city streets can provide entertainment of its own, the city also offers a list of things to do while there. We’ve put together 31 must-do options for you to choose from during a stay in Vienna, Austria, so read on to find your top picks!

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Vienna

Vienna accommodation caters for every traveler. Here are our top picks.

Wombats City Hostel

The coolest hostel in vienna.

• Stay in the heart of Nachtmarkt
• Free walking tours of Vienna offered!

Enjoy the energetic vibe and welcoming atmosphere at Wombats hostel. Your gracious hosts will spoil you with a welcome drink at their onsite WomBAR before showing you to your dorm room. There are mixed dorms available for groups of friends, and private rooms as well.

Recommended Article: Looking for the best hostels in Vienna? Check out our EPIC Guide!

Ibis budget Wien Sankt Marx

A great budget hotel in vienna.

• 10 minute underground ride to the city center
• All-you-can-eat buffet breakfast!

For something simple, yet homely, a stay at Ibis Wien Sankt Marx is exactly what your Vienna trip needs. Enjoy a warm welcome into your neatly furnished room and benefit from the hotel’s amenities such as vending machines and computer stations.

The Harmonie Vienna

The best luxury hotel in vienna.

• Onsite bar, library, and fitness center
• Buffet breakfast

While pricier than other hotels, the Harmonie doesn’t disappoint those looking for luxury. The onsite facilities, splendidly decorated rooms, and attentive staff members make this a great spot to enjoy a lavish getaway.

We are obsessed with backpacks – we’ve tried them all! And our favourite carry on backpack in the WORLD is the Nomatic Travel Backpack.  This backpack has revolutionized the backpack industry and will change the way you travel forever :) Check it out here!

• The 31 Best Things to Do in Vienna •

#1 – visit an original viennese fiaker horse stable.

• Learn the secrets of Fiakerie
• Enjoy a barn tour!
• Take a carriage ride

Take a trip back in time and visit an original Viennese Fiaker stable. Take a guided tour of the barns and meet the hard-working Lipizzaner horses.

Learn the trade secrets of how these Fiaker rides work. Then, take a ride back to the city in this once-popular 18th-century mode of transport.

Still haven’t booked for Vienna? Check out our favorite boutique hotels in Vienna

#2 – Enjoy a Wine Tasting Tour

• Discover Austria’s best wines!
• Pair wine with Austrian hams
• Visit enthralling spots for tastings

Enjoy some of the most savored wines throughout Austria with a Vienna wine tasting tour. Make your way through the city, and stop at prominent places to appreciate a glass or two of wine.

Paired with delicacies such as Austrian ham, the wines go down well, and you get to see Vienna from a different perspective.

#3 – View Spectacular Riverside Street Art

• See the longest outdoor gallery!
• Cruise along Vienna’s river
• A Vienna must-see

Cruise upstream along the Danube River and view the city’s characteristic artwork along the riverside walls. Learn about the artists and enjoy the stunning scenery.

You can order delicious Viennese cuisine to enjoy during your cruise, and take advantage of the magnificent photo ops, too!

Will you be in Salzburg a while? Here’s your guide to the top day trips from Salzburg  for exploring the area!

#4 – Watch a Traditional Strudel Show

• Taste traditional Viennese apple strudel
• Watch strudel being made
• Take the recipe home!

Nothing beats a slice of warm, homemade apple strudel. A fun thing to see while in Vienna is a strudel show!

You can watch this traditional treat being made in the court bakery of the Cafe Residenz. Enjoy an entertaining show before you get to taste this scrumptious pastry, and receive a copy of the recipe.

MUST READ! You’ve got to visit Weird and Wonderful Destination Perfect for Students !

#5 – See St Stephen’s Cathedral

One of the most important sites in vienna.

• Open Monday to Sunday for visitors
• Tour the Cathedral’s catacombs!
• Attend a religious mass

This famous landmark is a Vienna must-see. The cathedral has stood for the past seven centuries and is an important feature in the city.

It’s the seat of the Archbishop of Vienna and the mother church of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese. Attend a mass, tour the building, or simply stand in awe outside.

#6 – Try a Ghost Walk Through Town

• Visit haunted Vienna buildings
• Discover Vienna’s Count Dracula!
• Learn about Vienna’s spooky history

Paranormal fans will love this opportunity to walk through Vienna’s streets and learn about the myths and legends surrounding old buildings.

See famous Vienna tourist attractions from a different point of view. Enjoy an insightful tour on foot, led by an expert tour guide.

Price anxiety? We get it too, so we made an article for the best budget hostels in Vienna !

#7 – Experience a Day of Time Travel

• An interactive history lesson!
• Open all year
• Set in a 400-year-old monastery

Take the most fascinating trip through Vienna’s history. See ancient Vienna, speak to the likes of Mozart, and Strauß, and hear a moving speech from Chancellor Figl.

Through the use of modern-day technology and state-of-the-art VR glasses, you can fly over the roofs of Vienna and find yourself in a WWII bomb shelter.

#8 – Visit the Old Vienna Zoo

• Oldest Baroque zoo in the world
• See two of the only Giant Pandas in Europe!
• Petting zoo for kids

Open since 1752, the Vienna Zoo is a marvelous place to spend a day. Voted ‘Europe’s best’ in 2012, this Baroque-style zoo offers the chance to see over 4000 animals in their clean, spacious and naturally-mimicked habitats.

Visit with koalas, polar bears, pandas and more! While visiting, be sure to check out the rainforest house and the aquarium.

Need to see more of Austria? These day trips from Vienna  will show you the coolest areas around.

#9 – Embrace the Nightlife Scene with a Pub Crawl

• Visit best-known Vienna pubs
• Enjoy drinks with new friends
• Free drinks!

Take a guided pub crawl tour through Vienna’s most popular bars and clubs. Experience the city’s nightlife with a group of like-minded travelers and enjoy special treatment at the best nightclubs.

Along with a party-loving, energetic guide, you can look forward to free drinks, free club entrance, and not having to stand in queues!

See the hidden gems of Vienna! With the best tours and sights in Vienna.

#10 – Sightsee Along Vienna’s Ring Road

• Walk, bike, or take the tram
• See top tourist attractions!
• Great for short visits

Vienna’s Ringstrasse has become a prominent feature in the city’s layout. The circular boulevard gives spectacular views of the city.

This road is perfect to stroll down, taking in the sights at your own pace. Alternatively, rent a bike and cycle, or take the tourist tram and enjoy an easy ride around the boulevard.

#11 – See Vienna from the Danube Tower

• View Vienna from up high
• Tallest landmark in the city!
• Enjoy Austrian Delicacies

The Danube tower stands at 252 meters high and offers breathtaking views of Vienna.

Visit the tower to see the best of Vienna from up high, and treat yourself to an Austrian meal at the tower’s restaurant or cafe. Both spots will allow you 360-degree views as the floor rotates every few minutes.

#12 – Get Your Golden Ticket to the Chocolate Museum

• Make your own chocolate
• See chocolate museum
• Taste delicious treats!

Whether you’re a chocoholic or simply enjoy the treat occasionally, a visit to Vienna’s chocolate museum is worthwhile!

Book a chocolate-making workshop and be taught to make your very own chocolate bars. Enjoy tastes, smells, and sights to delight all the senses. Then, browse through the interactive museum and learn more about chocolate.

Don’t book! At least, not before you’ve seen Salzburg ’s top hostels !

#13 –  Marvel at the Hofburg Palace Treasure

• One of the most important treasure chambers
• See the Austrian Imperial Crown
• View the Holy Grail!

Feast your eyes on the impressive treasures of the Habsburgs. From massive jewels to the horn of a unicorn!

Visitors are welcome to come and admire the exhibitions in the palace. Bring your own guide, or simply browse leisurely through the displays of treasure.

Austria is amazing! And these spots to see in Austria  are unmissable!

#14 – Browse Naschmarkt

• Largest detail market in Vienna!
• Find food, crafts, and fun
• Freshest fruits and fish

Vienna’s Naschmarkt is a brilliant way to experience the cultural vibe in the city. Browse through stalls of colorful crafts and souvenirs, taste remarkable dishes, and meet friendly faces.

The best way to do the market is through a food tour. Let a local guide show you how best to enjoy all there is to offer!

#15 – Explore Vienna Woods

One of the best free things to do in vienna.

• Enjoy a day in nature
• Picnic in the woods
• View the city from the hills

Vienna Woods is a forested area on the outskirts of the city. The perfect spot to break away from the busy streets and step into nature.

Take the bus to the wood’s entrance and enjoy a hike, picnic, or a simple stroll through the forest.

#16 – Meet Madame Tussaud’s Wax Wonders

• Perfect for all ages
• See wax figures of international celebrities
• Experience ”Sisi Uncovered 5D”

Visit Vienna’s very own version of Madame Tussaud’s wax museum and snap selfies with celebrities from around the world.

Enjoy bonus features, such as VR rides and interactive presentations as well! Adults and kids alike will have a blast!

#17 – Enrol in a Spanish Riding School

• See a Ballet of White Stallions
• Meet famous Lipizzan horses
• Go behind the scenes!

A majestic offering of well-disciplined animals, the Spanish Riding School in Vienna puts on quite a show! Pay a visit to view a show, see the horses, or watch how they put on such amazing performances.

Be sure to pick up something from the souvenir shop, and sit down for a steaming coffee while you’re there!

No plans tonight? Check into one of Vienna ’s party hostels for more than just a place to sleep!

#18 – Discover the Karlskirche

• Marvel at the gorgeous church building
• Appreciate a classical concert
• Open all week

The Karlskirche is a magnificent church. The building holds years of history and has stood in its beauty for centuries. It’s a top spot for sightseeing and is open every day for visitors.

Visit in the evening for Vivaldi’s Four Seasons classical concert and enjoy an experience unlike any other!

#19 – Have Fun at the Funfair

• Ride the Giant Ferris Wheel
• Feel like a kid again
• Enjoy loads of rides

Head to the Prater Amusement park for a day of laughs! From a 5D cinema to a ghost train so many more thrilling rides!

Don’t leave before you take at least one ride on the Giant Ferris wheel, though! Enjoy panoramic views of Vienna and a relaxing ride on this popular landmark.

#20 – Treat Yourself to Sachertorte

One of the best things to do in downtown vienna.

• Authentic Austrian dessert!
• Icon of the city
• Found all over Vienna

Sachertorte is a delectable chocolate sponge cake, conceived in 1832 as a dessert for the prince. It’s still today an iconic treat in Vienna and a must-try when there!

The debate on the best place for Sachertorte in Vienna is still out, but you’ll find this scrumptious cake in most cafes and coffee shops.

#21 – Be Amazed by an Orchestra Concert at Golden Hall

• One of Vienna’s finest concert halls
• Watch international opera singers
• See baroque style costumes

For a pleasantly relaxed evening, you should definitely make your way down to the Golden Hall – one of Vienna’s absolute finest!

See an orchestra band play or an opera performance by talented singers. The hall itself is a popular attraction for architecture enthusiasts and offers some amazing photo opportunities.

#22 – Check out Hard Rock Cafe

• Open until late!
• Visit during Happy Hour
• Rockstar menu!

For a more American meal, and a rockstar experience, book a table at Hard Rock Cafe. Enjoy cocktails, boozy milkshakes, and legendary burgers! Not to mention the festive atmosphere and vibe.

This restaurant offers a US-themed menu with a Viennese-style architecture. This is the perfect spot to get some photos while satisfying your hunger.

#23 – Pay Your Respects at Central Cemetery

• Visit famous personalities’ graves
• See Mozart’s gravestone!
• Take a guided tour

Central Cemetery lies to the south of Vienna and covers a large area. The cemetery has over 300k graves!

Wander through the grounds and view the final resting places of many Viennese lives. Take a guided walking tour and hear some of the personal life stories found here.

#24 – Peruse the Museum of Modern Art

• Top examples of international modern art
• Admire contemporary exhibitions
• Viennese Actionism represented!

All lovers of art, especially modern art, should visit the mumok at least once. Take the chance to marvel at works from well-known contemporary artists of the 20th and 21st centuries.

Spend the day indoors admiring the many exhibitions throughout the museum, and enjoy a look into the many forms of art that make up the modern-day gallery.

If you are traveling you should ALWAYS have emergency cash hidden on you! Security belts are great because they are affordable and can fit a ton of stuff in them (great for peace of mind!). Check out our favorite travel belt!

#25 – Have a Coffee at Cafe Pruckel

One of the best cheap things to do in vienna.

• Artistic cafe full of culture
• Enjoy a meal and drink
• Attend a basement theater show

Cafe Pruckel is bursting with Viennese history and heritage. The cafe pays homage to artistic souls that have graced its tables throughout the years.

Visit for a hearty breakfast, afternoon coffee stop, or an evening meal accompanied by live piano music or a play.

#26 – Go on a Scavenger Hunt

• Discover Vienna in game
• Solve puzzles
• Perfect for groups and families!

Take some time to discover the city in a unique, but fun way! Sign up for a scavenger hunt and explore Vienna as you solve puzzles and crack clues.

Get your sightseeing done while exercising your brain and body! A great way to keep kids entertained while seeing the city.

#27 – Wander Through a World Heritage Site

• Visit a UNESCO World Heritage Site
• See largest Klimt collection
• View works of art from different eras

Visit Belvedere and admire the many stunning pieces of art throughout the Magnificent Marble Hall. See the Palace Chapel and the Baroque-style architecture from so many years ago.

This fabulous building creates an ideal way to enjoy artworks throughout the centuries.

#28 – Be a Guest in Freud’s Home

A must for history buffs.

• Stand in Freud’s original house and office
• Learn of his life in Vienna

Most of us know of Sigmund Freud, but how many can say we’ve stepped into his home and viewed his life?

Set in the apartment where he lived before fleeing to London, the Freud Museum shows the earlier years of the professor’s life and is a fascinating place to visit.

#29 – Celebrate with Rooftop Drinks

• Highest view in Vienna!
• Set on a secret rooftop
• Enjoy drinks and Viennese sweet treats

Set on the rooftop of Vienna’s oldest skyscraper, this secret rooftop bar is the perfect spot to end any day Vienna.

Enjoy 360-degree views of the city as you chat with your host and enjoy a chilled drink. This is quite an exclusive opportunity so be sure to book ahead!

MUST READ! We’ve organized the best places to stay in Salzburg  for all types of trips!

#30 – Delight in a Traditional Dinner and Show

• 3-course meal
• Impressive song and dance show
• Hear musical pieces from famous composers

Enjoy a 3-course meal at the Wiener Rathauskeller and be treated to a show as well!

Top performers will enchant you with their singing and dancing, and you’ll recognize compositions from the likes of Strauß, Stolz, and Lehar. This is a wonderful way to end any day.

#31 – Step into Vienna Ice World

A ‘cool’ thing to do in vienna in winter.

• Annual event in the heart of Vienna
• 9,000 m² of open-air ice skating
• Skates to rent on site

If you’re lucky enough to visit Vienna during winter, you’ll want to try the city’s ice world, or Wiener Eistraum. Enjoy large open spaces to ice skate and have fun!

This is a popular time in the city, and a great way to meet the friendly locals.

Final Thoughts

As you can see, there’s a perfect balance of historic, cultural, and fun things to do in Vienna. However long your trip to the city is, you shouldn’t find it hard to decide what to do in Vienna.

If you’re hoping to get as much sightseeing as possible into a short space of time, be sure to plan a Vienna itinerary before you arrive in the city. Many Vienna tours will also offer you the perfect way to see the city.

***Disclaimer*** Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. This means that if you book your accommodation through the site, One Weird Globe will earn a small commission at no extra cost to you . Your support helps me keep the site going :)

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10 Fun Things To Do In Vienna with Teens

D o you ever dream of exploring Austria while riding bikes along the Danube? How about eating a piece of the world-famous Demel's chocolate mousse cake or discovering the magic of Vienna with teens?

Is Vienna worth visiting?

Yes! You'll find that Vienna is home to world-class museums, magnificent cathedrals, a hopping cafe culture, the Opera, and architecture that is second to none.

3 Days in Vienna with Teens? Start With an Audio Tour

If you DO happen to be traveling in Vienna with teens, you may wish to buy two pieces of chocolate mousse cake!

If you only have 3 days in Vienna to explore, you'll want to get started right away.

On our first afternoon in Vienna, Austria, our oldest daughter was sick and our middle daughter just needed some downtime. Sometimes travel is like that—travel with teenagers especially—and you just have to roll with the punches.

Chris and I set out to explore and discover the best views in Vienna with our youngest daughter, Kristen, for the afternoon. We ventured out with the voice of Rick Steves in our ears.

Rick offers three FREE separate audio tours for Vienna:

• Vienna City Walk
• St. Stephen's Cathedral Tour
• Ringstrasse Tram Tour

We took the Ringstrasse Tram Tour and started our audio tour by hopping onto Tram #2 as it circled the city center.

The Ringstrasse, or the Ring, was designed in the Habsburg era with the intent to connect the outlying town with the imperial center.

You'll need to switch to Tram #1 halfway through the tour, but it is a nice relaxing way to discover unique things to do in Vienna with teens. Especially if your travels and adventure are often go, go, go to see as much as possible. Some of the important sites that you will learn about are:

• Café Sacher and their famous dessert
• Neuer Markt
• Dorotheergasse
• Plague Column
• Kohlmarkt & Demel Bakery
• Michaelerplatz
• The Hofburg Palace and the Imperial Apartments, Spanish Riding School, Treasury

Out of all the things we saw and experienced while exploring Vienna that day (and on subsequent days with all three of our girls), these are the top 10 places to visit in Vienna with teens that we would recommend to you (especially if you only have a 3 days in Vienna to spend touring the city).

>> Related: How to Give a Travel Adventure to Your Family as a Surprise

Top 10 Things to Do in Vienna with Teens

1. st. stephen's cathedral.

St. Stephen's Cathedral , often considered the symbol of Vienna, is a magnificent structure. The interior is lavishly decorated with columns, altars, and an impressive organ.

Entrance to the cathedral is free, though you can purchase tickets for a guided audio tour . Book your tickets online in advance for additional activities which include a visit to the catacombs, taking the elevator to the top of the north tower, climbing the 343 steps to the Steffl Tower (south tower)—the panoramic view from the south tower is worth the climb and offers some of the best views in Vienna.

2. St. Peter's Church

St. Peter's sits in the heart of Vienna; if you are a fan of Baroque architecture and art, this beautiful church is a must-see while touring Vienna. St. Peter's is a working church, however, it is free to visit and open daily. Be mindful of appropriate dress and behavior.

The church hosts a variety of concerts . Some are free (with donation) and others require a ticket. With the popularity of the concerts, you'll certainly want to get your ticket in advance.

How many days in Vienna should you plan for your visit? Enough to be able to add a concert to your itinerary!

3. Michaelerplatz

Enter the Michaelerplatz, the historic city-center of Vienna, and you'll feel as though you have stepped back in time as you enjoy some of the best views in Vienna as well. On one end of the square you'll find a wing of the Hofburg Palace Complex and to your right the Palais Herberstein. Continue circling around to see the Loos House, St. Michael's Church, and Roman excavations.

As suggested by our Rick Steves Audio Tour, we saw St. Stephen’s church, ate ice cream, and then later enjoyed a chocolate mousse cake from Demel’s . Like us, you may wish to sit in the Michaelerplatz to enjoy some of the best views in Vienna... and the cake.

4. Hofburg Palace

As you enter the Michaelerplatz and see the Hofburg Palace, you may think that this "wing" makes up the entirety of the palace. Au contraire. The palace is a series of lavish, interconnected buildings. It was the former residence of the Habsburg monarchy.

Explore the public areas of the complex for insights into the opulent Imperial life:

• The Sisi Museum - learn more of Empress Elisabeth
• The Imperial Apartments - a display of rooms used by Elisabeth and her husband, Emperor Franz Joseph
• The Silver Collection - shows off the Imperial table decor, porcelain, cutlery and utensils, and crockery

You'll no doubt see a fiaker or two—Viennese horse-drawn carriages—circling the drive.

Perhaps you have heard of the famous Lipizzaner stallions and the  Spanish Riding School . Don't miss the chance to see the horses in action. The entrance to the visitor center and arena is opposite the ticket counter for the Sisi Museum.

You could spend a 3 days in Vienna with teens discovering just the Palace and surrounding area!

5. Kunsthistorisches Museum

If looking for royal treasure is more in line with your tastes as you explore Vienna with teens, the  Imperial Treasury  is a short walk from the palace in a building separate from the Kunsthistorisches Museum and the Natural History Museum. Marvel at the crown jewels, religious relics, and priceless collections of the Habsburgs:

• Habsburg Imperial crown
• Holy Roman Emperor's coronation robes and crown
• A solid gold rosebush
• Emperor Maximilian I's 15th-century ceremonial sword

Perhaps these treasures are some of the best views in Vienna.

The main Kunsthistorisches Museum building on Maria-Theresien Platz houses treasures with an eclectic mix of art from the likes of Raffael, Bruegel, Holbein, Van Dyck, and Rembrandt. You'll also find Egyptian antiquities, Roman and Greek treasures, and an extensive coin collection.

6. Ausseres Burgtor - Triumphal Arch

If you happen to reach the Ausseres Burgtor when a musical group sets out to perform, you will be in for a treat. Take a seat on the steps and listen to an impromptu concert with outstanding acoustics. The arched passageway connects the Michaelerplatz and the Hofburg Palace with the Kunsthistorisches Museum group of buildings.

Won’t lie, it was kind of nice to sit and listen for awhile.

7. Schonbrunn Palace

While you are exploring Vienna with teens, I suggest you add a tour of the Schonbrunn Palace , the former home of Maria Theresia of the Habsburg nobility, to your itinerary.

Take the Grand Tour to see the lavish luxury of the rooms and private apartments of imperial royalty.

8. Schonbrunn Gardens and Zoo

The grounds surrounding the palace are extensive and precise.

You'll see rose bushes and rose arches, ponds, Roman ruins , and shady rows of trees in the extensive palace gardens. Venture into the maze section of the gardens and have fun trying to find your way out.

There are activities for both the old and young in the gardens, including the Schonbrunn Zoo. It just happens to be the world's oldest zoo .

You can take tours of the zoo in the early morning hours where you will have the park virtually to yourself, themed tours, or behind-the-scene tours.

If you happen to appreciate a picnic lunch, the gardens are the perfect place to enjoy your repast. Bring along some fresh bread, cheeses, meats, fruit, cookies and drinks. Lunch will be simple in nature but will bring lasting memories when you are looking for things to do in Vienna with teens.

>> Related: 10 SUPER EASY Ways to Save Money on Travel

9. Gloriette

Continue on to the columned Gloriette in the gardens and sit to enjoy one of the best views in Vienna. Built in 1775, apparently the Gloriette was built as eye candy to be viewed by the royalty from the Schonbrunn Palace. They created the best views in Vienna to enjoy everyday.

Today it houses a cafe, but was previously used by Franz Joseph I as a breakfast hall as well as a dining hall and festival hall.

Turns out it is just a nice place for you to relax, take some pictures, cool off in the shade, enjoy the afternoon, and do a little people-watching.

>> Related: Tips to Take Better Travel Photos (and Look Good in Them Too!)

10. Albertina Museum

Albertina is another magnificent museum in Vienna. The outside entrance stairs to the Albertina Museum are often decorated to draw in crowds.

"The  Albertina  is a museum in the Innere Stadt (First District) of Vienna, Austria. It houses one of the largest and most important print rooms in the world with approximately 65,000 drawings and approximately 1 million old master prints, as well as more modern graphic works, photographs and architectural drawings.

"Apart from the graphics collection the museum has recently acquired on permanent loan two significant collections of Impressionist and early 20th-century art, some of which will be on permanent display." Wikipedia

Day Trips from Vienna with Teens

After you explore for 3 days in Vienna, if you are interested in a little bit of traveling outside the city, Melk, the Melk Abbey, the Danube River, and the Wachau Valley might be just what you are looking for.

It took a little bit of planning finesse on my husband's part to get us to Melk, Austria.

You'll want to take a bus, then a train, and then transfer to another train before getting THE train tickets for the day to the Wachau Valley of Austria.

At our last stop, a helpful station agent helped us coordinate tickets to Melk, and we didn’t even have to make a mad dash for the train.

Don't be afraid to ask for help. So many people around the world are willing to help. Many of them speak English as well if that is your native language.

>> Related: My Favorite Crossbody Bag for Travel

We arrived in Melk, Austria around the same time as an English-speaking tour was starting at Melk Abbey . I would not recommend this if you aren't in the best of shape, but we took off on an uphill hike that might have taken 30 minutes at a leisurely speed. At Kline-speed (and wanting to arrive in time for the tour), we reached the abbey in about 10 minutes.

Our girls were NOT pleased. Whew.

But we made it. Joining the English-speaking tour with Florian was our goal, and though it had already begun, AND we were a little breathless, we were still able to join.

The tour of Melk Abbey includes the royal wing, the great hall where lavish dinners were held, the library which housed over 100,000 books, the chapel, and then the gardens. It was all lovely.

Riding Bikes Along the Danube

When planning for this trip, Chris had discovered a bike ride from Melk to Krems, Austria.

So, after we finished the tour of the Abbey in Melk, Chris downloaded an app and then tried to get a code from a bike rental company. It took awhile for him to get things set up, but he finally got things squared away for an afternoon of bike riding along the south side of the Danube.

The Danube is not blue.

Just saying.

Photo courtesy of Google Play

Get the NextBike App :

Let’s just say I fell off my bike within ten minutes of starting the ride! Don't do that.

I was bringing up the rear with my family and got held up when my youngest slowed down to go through a small entryway onto the bike path that was flanked on either side by columns. I didn’t have anywhere to go at the last second as she slowed but into a column and down I went.

Got my elbow and knee pretty good; I kept going to work out the kinks.

Now, let me just say that the blurb we read about this ride suggested that it was a nice, leisurely downhill coast. DOWNHILL. It was not, IN ANY WAY, leisurely or a downhill coast.

After a couple of hours and about 25 km, we finally stopped in a small town called Spitz, Austria. Our bike-riding muscles were worn out.

Though Chris was ready to ride a couple more hours until we reached Krems, his girls were not willing to go further by bike.

Again, my friends, be flexible. Especially when you are traveling with teenagers.

You can catch a bus to Krems.

By the time we arrived in Krems the town was pretty much shut down for the day. Boo.

After walking around for a short time, Chris found a train leaving from the Krems station back to Vienna. We only had a few minutes before it left and were all willing to run a little back to the train station to catch it. Sadly, we picked the slower train and it was two hours later when we finally rolled into the Vienna station.

Chris and I ate Built Bars protein bars on the train as our pseudo dinner. Not the best meal. Sometimes you have to make do in a pinch. Our girls weren’t having any of it. Luckily we finally reached the station in Vienna and found a small food court.

Essential Travel Gear for Your Days in Vienna with Teens

Chris and I both do extensive advance research when we travel and find many amazing places to visit and activities to enjoy.

I often take pictures of him while on vacation where he is looking at his phone. People sometimes comment, "Chris is always on his phone. Is he bored?"

Not so. He is checking train schedules, making sure apps are downloaded, and keeping up-to-date on excursions. The cell phone makes it so much simpler. If you aren't traveling with a cell phone , I highly recommend it.

Recommended Travel Gear

• Portable Charger - I promise, you will use it!
• Headphones, Airpods, or corded earbuds
• Tablet and Keyboard
• Cable Organizer
• DSLR Camera, Point and Shoot Camera, or Underwater Camera
• Camera battery, Charger, Memory Card
• Power Strip
• International Adapters
• Apple Watch
• The NorthFace Recon Backpack for Women
• The NorthFace Recon Backpack
• Travelon Crossbody Messenger Bag

>> Related: 14 Genius Gadgets for Travel

There are so many more items I use and recommend for travel . Check out my Amazon Storefront for more suggestions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is vienna family friendly.

Definitely. In fact, it is one of the most family friendly cities in Europe. If you are considering visiting Vienna with teens, I think you'll discover it to be a destination that has something for everyone in the family.

Is Vienna budget friendly?

If you compare Vienna to a more affordable destination such as Germany and then a more expensive country such as Switzerland, Vienna falls in the middle as an affordable destination. You can make choices in your accommodations, activities, entertainment, and food that will help your budget.

When is the best time to visit Vienna?

Summer is always a great time to visit Vienna when the day-time temperatures are high and nights are warm. If you want to add a little color to some of the best views in Vienna, consider a visit in the fall when temps are still pleasant.

What are the best views in Vienna?

Belvedere Palace (the featured image on this post) is one of the most photographed buildings in Vienna. You can also find Instagrammable spots at the cathedrals, Schonbrunn Palace, Hofburg Palace, and all along the Ringstrasse .

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Final thoughts on 10 fun things to do in vienna with teens.

Visiting Austria is the perfect destination when you are traveling with family. If you are exploring Vienna with teens, there are plenty of sites, excursions, day trips , and tours to keep everyone happy. There's just a little something for everyone.

Travel with teenagers does require some advance planning and research, especially if you are traveling on a budget. We stayed at the Hilton Garden Inn Vienna South . It was a bit outside of Vienna, but allowed us to use Hilton Honors points with the two rooms that we needed. Plus, it included breakfast which can add up to a big savings when you travel with family.

• Hilton Garden Inn Vienna South
• Hertha-Firnberg-Strasse 5, 1100, Vienna, Austria
• TEL: +43-1-60530555

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