best things to visit in vienna

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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

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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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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.

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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.

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“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.

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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).

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“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.

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“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.

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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.

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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.

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“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.

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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.

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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.

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“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.

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“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.

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The 12 best things to do in Vienna

By Rick Jordan

The shy and retiring Austrian city has got its attitude back and is now moving to a new beat, as maverick architects, bohemian foodies and spray-can radicals take to the streets. With a clutch of  grande dame hotels – and  a recent five-star opening that had the neighbourhood talking – it’s easy to see why travellers put this city top of their European bucket list. Here we round up the best things to do in Vienna right now.

1. Get arty at the Museumsquartier

We’ve got the Habsburgs to thank for so much grand-scale venue space in  Vienna – their former imperial stables are now home to the city’s main art hub, known as MQ and containing nine main museums. And while there are other galleries in town, this is the place to head if you have limited time on your hands and a preference for modern and contemporary art. The Leopold, with its white-cube architecture, is a favourite for its works from the modernist Vienna of the early 20th century, with a large collection of fleshy Schiele paintings, several by Klimt (though  The Kiss can be seen at the Belvedere museum) and bold-lined Wiener Werkstätte designs. MUMOK, meanwhile, is a brilliantly curated contemporary gallery that draws together Pop Art from Warhol and Claes Oldenburg along with chaotic, radical 60s movements such as as Vienna Actionism and Fluxus, with works by Yoko Ono, Nam June Paik, Duchamp and Rauschenberg along with a growing collection of photographic and video works. At ZOOM, meanwhile, children up to the age of 14 can get experimental with animation, painting and glue, with an ocean-themed room for younger children complete with water grotto, mirror tunnel and a ship’s deck. Insider tip: take the lift to the top of the Leopold Museum for a rooftop drink.

Address:   Museumsquartier, Museumsplatz 1, 1070 Wien, Austria Website: www.mqw.at

2. Cool off in the Danube

In summer 2022, when temperatures sizzled upwards, there was only one thing to do: find some cold water and jump into it as soon as you could. There’s a few ways of doing this in Vienna. You could pack your  swimming costume and head to one of several private  swimming pools such as the smart Schönbrunner Bad, in the grounds of the grand Schönbrunn Palace, or KrapfenwaldBad, which has the best views over the city but can get crowded. There’s also a healthy lido culture, best experienced at Gänsehäufel, a little island on Alte Donau (that’s the Old Danube) that has wave machines, splashy children’s playgrounds, a diving pool, tree cover and lots of access to the river itself – with entry points lined with flat stones so you don’t have to wade through gloopy mud. And the Alte Donau itself, which once formed part of the river but is now a lake (get there via the U1 metro), is great for hiring a pedalo, SUP or boat – try Marina Hofbauer or Eppel – which you can then jump off from. If you want to channel ‘Club Tropicana’, hire one of the ‘island’ pedalos which have ladders at the back and tropical foliage to sip cocktails behind.

3. Go for a ride in the Wurstel Prater

Most amusement parks are generally to be avoided by all but the masochistic but not the Prater. It’s set amid tree-shaded greenery – great for cycling around, so consider bike hire – on what was once the Habsburg’s hunting ground and is home to the famous Riesenrad, the giant, 65-metre-high ferris wheel built in 1897 and which played a leading role in  The Third Man  (and lesser-celebrated 007 film  The Living Daylights ). And while there are many modern rides that spin you round and drop you from dizzy heights, the park generally has a gentle, vintage character – a little like Copenhagen ’s Tivoli Gardens. Vintage lovers should seek out antique rides such as the pony carousel, the denim-clad cowboy hedgehogs of the Fifties-era Mecky Express, the Liliputbahn from the 1920s and one of the world’s oldest ghost trains, dating to 1948. Entrance is free but take cash as you’ll need it to buy tokens for rides and games. Amusement park aficionados should also seek out Böhmischer Prater, which is quieter and well pitched for younger children.

Address:   Wurstel Prater, 1020 Vienna, Austria Website: praterwien.com

4. Drink wine in a Viennese vineyard

Remember all that fuss about  hygge ? The Viennese have long had their own version of affable cosiness,  Gemütlichkeit , best experienced in one of the city’s heurigen, or wine taverns. Much has been written about the city’s café culture, but heurigen are just as central to the Viennese character – little snapshots of the 17th and 18th centuries, they tend to be wood-lined dens with vine-covered courtyards and, more often than not,  moustachioed men in lederhosen playing accordion and fiddles. Traditional, yes, but also long-standing champions of vine-to-glass drinking, much of it biodynamic. Vienna is the only capital city in the world with serious vineyards within the city limits and with Austrian wine the best it’s ever been, that goes for Viennese varieties too. In central Vienna, visit the vaulted Gigerl and order a glass of Zweigelt red or citrusy Gemischter Satz along with a plate of local sausage, pickles, sauerkraut and cheeses – but this should only serve as a primer for the real experience further out. The 38 tram drops you in Grinzing, for example, a short walk from village vineyards such as Mayer am Nussberg where tables and loungers are set in the fields during the summer for long, slow wine-tasting with views over the city. 

5. See The Third Man at the cinema

For such a classic city, there are surprisingly few globally known films set on its streets, but two will always linger in the mind. Richard Linklater’s 1995 indie hit Before Sunrise is a compellingly slow-burn girl-meets-boy romance set across a single day before Jessie (Ethan Hawke) flies back to the USA . Easy enough to take a self-guided walking tour through most of its locations – from Schallplattenhandlung record shop to  Maria-Theresien-Platz – though some have changed. And while Carol Reed’s 1949 film-noir  The Third Man , is constantly referenced in relation to Vienna, have you actually seen it? Would you recognise the zither theme by Anton Karas, and be able to recite Orson Welles’ famous Cuckoo Clock speech in the Prater Park ferris wheel? If that means nothing to you or everything, go and see it: it’s regularly shown at the lovely little Burg Kino cinema. After all, seeing a movie abroad is a treat in itself, isn’t it?

Address:   Burg Kino, Opernring 19, 1010 Vienna, Austria Website:   burgkino.at/movie/third-man

6. Take a tour of the city by tram

Every city has a bus or tram route that acts as an  unofficial guided tour. London has the 73 bus route from Stoke Newington to Victoria, which takes in Hyde Park and other central hits; in Vienna it’s all about the red-and-white Tram D. Rattling between the 10th and 19th districts, from the main station to what are almost villages (Vienna can get rural surprisingly quickly). Stepping on at the Hauptbahnhof, the route takes you past Belvedere palace – baroque former residence of Prince Eugene and now home to an impressive art collection – onto the Ringstrasse and past the State Opera then onward past the Burgtheater and Parliament to the 9th district with its clusters of independent hipster shops. You could alight here or stay on and see the fortress-like Karl Marx Hof, an enormous social housing project built in the 1930s by a student of Otto Wagner. Stay on till the end of the line and you can get off and walk to Mayer am Pfarrplatz, a wine tavern where Beethoven once drank. Not bad for two euros 30, though it’s best to pick up a Vienna City Card if you’re planning on seeing a lot of the city – available for 24, 48 or 72 hours.

Website:   viennacitycard.at

7. Meet the Habsburgs in an underground crypt

There’s an underground world in Vienna, ranging from the sewers seen in  The Third Man , which can be visited on tours at times, and the catacombs lurking below St Stephen’s Cathedral – a series of crypts dating back to the 14th century including ossuaries of neatly stacked bones that you can peep into. The best show curated by the grim reaper, though, can be found at the Capuchin Crypt below the tiny wood-lined Santa Maria church near Neuer Markt in the city centre. This is where most of the Habsburg dynasty ended up after shuffling off this mortal coil – 149 of them, spanning four centuries, with the remains of empresses and queens, Holy Roman emperors and princes residing in elaborate sarcophagus. Some of the remains anyway – they tended to be distributed between three separate crypts, omnipresent in death as well as life. Particularly fine is the tomb of Marie Theresa and Franz Stephan, decorated with scenes from their life along with the requisite grinning death’s head wearing a crown. Ideal for any designers of Iron Maiden or Sepulchre album covers, this is wonderfully macabre – a memento mori history lesson into Austria’s imperial past. 

Address:   Capuchin’s Crypt, Tegetthoffstraße 2, 1010 Wien, Austria Website:   kapuzinergruft.com

8. Get regal at Schönbrunn Palace

The 19th-century Elisabeth, Empress of Austria, more affectionately  known as Sisi, has always been a royal pin-up in Austria, her face adorning chocolate boxes and tea towels, but is having even more of a moment right now. Heralded as an undiscovered feminist icon by some, and the Princess Di or Meghan Markle of her time by others, she’s the subject of two films and a brace of TV series, including 2022 Netflix show  The Empress,  depicting her marriage to Emperor Franz Joseph I aged just 16. So the palace where she lived feels particularly pertinent right now, despite being one of the city’s most obvious attractions. You could time your visit to coincide with one of the markets held in the palace courtyard for  Christmas , New Year and Easter, or for one of the summer concerts held by the Wiener Philharmoniker in the Orangery, where Mozart and Salieri used to perform. But otherwise, get here early and spend most of the day exploring the grounds and palace, perhaps even filming your own recreation swirling beneath the Gloriette arches and around the Neptunbrunnen fountain. Built in the middle of the 18th century, this is Vienna’s Versaille, a Baroque masterpiece.

Address:   Schönbrunner Schloßstraße 47, 1130 Wien, Austria Website:   schoenbrunn.at

Lauren Burvill

Charley Ward

María Casbas

Olivia Morelli

9. Do a figure of eight in winter

Vienna’s a beautiful city to visit during the winter, full of cosy cafés to stay warm in over a creamy hot chocolate (try for a seat at Cafe Schwarzenberg) and hearty, rib-sticking food such as gulasch and tafelspitz. For a snapshot of sheer winter-wonderland delight, head to the Town Hall Square which, between  January and  March every year, is turned into a meandering ice skating park known as the Viennese Ice Dream. It’s evolved over the years and now runs over two levels, linked by icy runways around the trees, with DJs and live music, and a small winter market selling punch, tea and snacks. Several smaller rinks spiral off the main ones, including one for young children – those whose technique involves clutching onto the side and making flailing forays out and back may be tempted to use these too. Book ahead online to avoid the queue – there are lockers for bags and shoes. You could try this in summer, too, of course, but may get a few odd looks.

Address:   Wiener Eistraum, 6965+3J, 1010 Wien, Austria Website:   wienereistraum.com

10. Go on a street-art safari along the Donau Canal

Yes, Vienna has the Danube, the blue Danube, but it also has the Donaukanal, a stretch of water (not a canal) that breaks off the main river, moseys around town and then rejoins the Danube in the east. And for those who still think Vienna is all about neoclassical architecture and opera, here’s the flipside. Walking or cycling along its banks you’ll see one of the biggest urban canvases for street art, sprayed on walls and under bridges and drawing international names, along with summer pop-up beach bars (Tel Aviv beach bar for house, Adria for a more indie vibe) and sound systems, community gardens and the Donaukanaltreiben Festival in June . Look out for the Motto am Fluss restaurant next to the little port from where hydrofoils glide off to Bratislava, the Badeschiff Wien with its onboard swimming pool, the Zaha Hadid Haus and the dome of the Urania Observatory. Or just make like the locals and sit on the edge with a beer, legs dangling over the water.

11. See a concert in Konzerthaus

As the city of Haydn and Mozart, Beethoven and Schubert, Vienna has some of the best buskers in the world, many of them having trained at a classical conservatoire, while walking down the street you’ll hear snatches of opera and strains of violin floating out of windows. You may also be stalked by touts in Mozart wigs and red waistcoats selling tickets for tourist concerts but ignore them and buy tickets for the Konzerthaus instead. While the State Opera or Musikverein, home to the Philharmonic, are the obvious choices, the Konzerthaus is set in an equally beautiful Art Nouveau building and is a little less known to visitors. It opened in 1913 with a specially written work by Strauss and has kept the standard up ever since, with a programme that mixes classical with jazz and contemporary.

Address:   Konzerthaus, Lothringerstraße 20, 1030 Wien, Austria Website:   konzerthaus.at

12. Go shopping in Burggasse

Vienna is divided into various numbered districts, and the 7th is one of the best areas to go shopping in, dipping into the various independent shops and then heading to a bar or café afterwards. It’s close to the Museumsquartier, so you can head here after a culture fix – it’s particularly good for vintage, as well as contemporary Austrian design. Highlights include Burggasse 24, a café/bar with an extensive vintage clothing collection, Uppers & Downers, which curates vintage fashion along with new accessories and shoes, and the Eigensinnig Wien concept store, which has its own-brand, all-black clothing label. Other favourites are Die Sellerie for stationery, ceramics and art prints, and the Wine Rebellion shop for a different kind of Austrian label.

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The 14 best attractions in Vienna

From world-class museums to vibrant open-air markets, these marvellous attractions in Vienna are an absolute must-visit

What an incredible city Vienna is. Once referred to as the Capital of the World, Vienna is a place that resonates with the soul long before you arrive here, such is the power of its reputation and aura. You might feel familiar with much of the Austrian capital already, be it the glittering State Opera, the engaging museums , unbeatable coffee houses , and all the rest. Vienna is a place that everyone must visit at least once in their lifetime.

With a roster such as this, it can be difficult to identify exactly what the best attractions in Vienna are. Vibrant and cosmopolitan, there’s so much more to this charming capital than the picture-postcard sights and bucket-list things to do. The restaurant scene is as good as any other, for a start, and a night out in Vienna is a night you won’t forget in a hurry.

RECOMMENDED: Full guide to the best things to do in Vienna

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Best attractions in Vienna

1.  St. Stephen’s Cathedral

What is it?   The symbol of the city, no less. St. Stephen’s Cathedral has been the fixed point around which Vienna turns since its building in the twelth century. Climb up the 343 steps all the way to the top and you'll be rewarded with some pretty unforgettable views.

Why go? The cathedral’s baroque interior is full of treasures, from bejewelled relics to holy books, as well as the tombs of Viennese luminaries like Emperor Friedrich III and Prince Eugene of Savoy. Make sure you don’t miss the catacombs.

2.  The Sigmund Freud Museum

What is it?  This thoughtfully curated museum charts the life of the father of psychoanalysis, whose work would change the course of history and reshape psychology practices for years to come. All before being forced to flee England by the Nazis in 1938.

Why go? As well as giving fascinating insights into how Freud developed his theories, the museum is a moving window into Jewish life in Vienna in the twentieth century. The displays are accessible and immersive, and the gift shop is a corker, too – how about some Freudian slippers?

3.  The Belvedere Palace

If you're looking for history, art and culture all in one place, make sure you visit the Belvedere Palace-turned-museum. Split across two palaces of the Upper and Lower Belvedere, the Belvedere is one of the most majestic architectural buildings to see in Vienna. Built during the eighteenth century, it's said that Austrian general of the time, Prince Eugene of Savoy, commissioned Baroque artist, Johann Lukas von Hildebrandt, to build the palace – and it's a true wonder to behold. In Upper Belvere lies an exhibition venue for impersonal collections, while Lower Belvedere hosts illustrious exhibitions. And if that's not enough, take a walk through the Baroque gardens – they are spectacular.

4.  Central Cemetery

What is it? A short tram ride from the city centre, the Zentralfriedhof, or Central Cemetery, feels more like a beautifully maintained park than a graveyard. It’s the final resting place of a huge number of Viennese luminaries and well worth visiting for a respectful stroll.

Why go? You can pay your respects to the likes of Strauss, Beethoven, Brahms and Schubert (maps and audio guides are available to help you find your way around). It’s worth visiting the Jewish section, too – vandalised by Nazi sympathisers after Austria was annexed, it’s been kept as it was left as a reminder of the horrors of fascism.

5.  The Hofburg Palace

What is it?   Found right in the centre of Vienna, this former palace was once home to the Habsburgs (who ran a mighty empire over a century ago) until 1918 – and remains one of the grandest buildings of its kind. Reminiscent of a giant, iced cake, this is somewhere you could easily lose yourself for a few days.

Why go? If you’ve only got time to visit one attraction in Vienna, make it this. The palace complex houses paintings by the likes of Klimt and Dürer, the Spanish Riding School (home to the dancing Lipizzaner horses), a butterfly house and the Austrian Film Museum. Whew!

6.  Amalienbad

What is it? An unbelievably gorgeous indoor pool in the 10th district. Built in the 1920s, the Amalienbad was architecturally inspired by Roman baths, while the interior blends Art Deco and Art Nouveau design to stunning effect (the tiling in the women’s sauna is particularly eye-catching). This ain't your run-of-the-mill leisure centre.

Why go? For a handful of euros, you can treat yourself to a leisurely swim, followed by a full spa experience. Keep an eye on the calendar for the late-night pool parties, which feature top-flight DJs and light installations.

7.  The Naschmarkt

What is it? Running in a long line between Karlsplatz and Kettenbrückengasse, Vienna’s iconic open-air market is a foodie paradise. From Austrian specialities like white wine, pickles and cheese to stuffed olives, spices and exotic fruits, it’s all here.

Why go? If you want to taste your way around the city’s diverse culinary heritage, this is the place to do it. Spend a morning wandering up and down, stocking up on goodies to take home – and don’t be shy about accepting samples offered by traders. Pause for an antipasto or piping hot falafel.

8.  Demel

What is it? One of Vienna’s original salons, Demel has been serving confectionery masterpieces since 1786. Plush ring cakes, cream slices, the richest hot chocolate and strudels galore – if you’ve got a sweet tooth, you’ll have to be dragged out of here.

Why go? It’s worth sticking around for a table for the full experience, but if you’re in a rush order a takeaway slice of Sachertorte , a rich chocolate cake made nearby in the Hotel Sacher and the subject of a fierce feud between it and Demel. Browse the displays of beautifully wrapped chocolates, then head to the back of the shop to watch the master confectioners at work crafting marzipan fruits.

9.  Wiener Riesenrad

What is it? You can see Vienna’s giant Ferris wheel for miles around. A gorgeously gaudy fin-de-siècle landmark, it has been towering 200ft over Prater Park since 1897, when it was built  to mark Emperor Franz Joseph’s 50 years on the throne.

Why go? If you’re mini-breaking with someone special, watching the sunset over the rooftops and into the Danube from one of the cabins is about as romantic as it gets (you can even book one for yourselves).

10.  Supersense

What is it? The most stylish one-stop design shop in the city. Housed in an art nouveau townhouse, Supersense calls itself the ‘home of analogue delicacies’: expect to find everything from a working letterpress to hand-cut vinyl, a scent lab and a recording studio.

Why go? It’s halfway between a museum and a design boutique – so you can learn about wet-plate ambrotypes while running off some postcards in the printing press, or test-driving a beautiful typewriter. There’s even a cafe selling fabulous coffee and pastries to check out afterwards.

11.  The Jewish Museum

What is it? The world’s first museum dedicated to Jewish culture, history and religious practices opened in Vienna in 1895. It was closed and looted by the Nazis, but reopened in its current form on Dorotheergasse after extensive renovation in 2011.

Why go? Vienna’s Jewish population was decimated by Nazi rule – some 130,000 fled the country and more than 65,000 were sent to concentration camps (of whom just 2,000 survived). Miraculously, the collections are full of objects that have been carefully handed down through the generations, from family photographs to copies of underground resistance newspapers.

12.  Weingut Cobenzl

What is it?  Vienna's outskirts are home to a number of top vineyards, as proven by the fresh, fruity wines that come out of Austria. High above the Danube, Weingut Cobenzl boasts 60 60 hectares of lovingly tended vines, producing everything from Grüner Veltliner to Riesling, and even a couple of unusual reds.

Why go? A guided tour of the winery is a fantastic way to brush up on your vinous knowledge. Watch the grapes being pressed, nose around the cellar and finish up with a tasting of six of Cobenzl’s finest vintages.

13.  Zuckerlwerkstatt

What is it? If Willy Wonka had been Viennese, this is where you’d have found him. Zuckerlwerkstatt – meaning ‘sugar workshop’ – produces exquisitely handcrafted sweets. If you’re travelling with kids they’ll go bananas, but adults will find it just as enchanting.

Why go?  Yes, it's the perfect souvenir shop. But you can also watch the confectioners working their magic in the demonstration kitchen. Watch the creation of jellies, lollipops and candy canes, all using  pure Austrian sugar, natural flavouring and plant extracts for colour. Plus, you can call ahead to order personalised candies.

14.  Vienna Ring Tram

What is it? Trundling trams are as much of a feature of Viennese life as snowboots and teatime torte . The yellow ones do a full 25-minute circuit of the Ringstrasse boulevard – hop aboard and you’ll be able to spot some of the city’s most iconic landmarks.

Why go? It’s the easiest (and most wallet-friendly) way to see the sights and get your bearings. Board at the Schwedenplatz, pop on one of the special headsets and enjoy an audio tour of the route, which takes in the Vienna State Opera, the museums, the Imperial Palace, the Burgtheater and the University of Vienna.

Need more sightseeing inspiration?

The 15 best things to do in Vienna

Vienna has topped every quality of life survey going in recent years and it doesn’t take long to work out why. With clean air, a low crime rate and cheap, reliable public transport, tourists can benefit from a trip here as much as the locals.

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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

The 24 Best Things to do in Vienna, Austria

Written By: The Planet D

Updated On: June 6, 2023

There is a reason that Vienna is referred to as one of the most beautiful capitals in Europe . From its magnificent architecture and impressive museums to its musical history and art scene, it is easy to see why Vienna is so popular. Housing nearly one-third of Austria’s population Vienna you will immediately realize why Ludwig van Beethoven, Sigmund Freud, and Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart decided to make this place home.

There are so many cool things to do in Vienna that it can be a little overwhelming, especially for the first-time visitor. You want to make sure you get the most out of your time and not miss anything. This guide will not only highlight the best things to do in Vienna but also give you some tips on how to save money and get around the city.

Table of Contents

Things to do in Vienna, Austria

So, if you’re ready to get exploring the famous sites and hidden gems of one of the most beautiful cities in Europe then let’s get started.

Before we get started, a great way to explore all of the top attractions in Vienna is to purchase a Vienna PASS . With purchase, it offers free access to Vienna’s top sights including Schönbrunn Palace and Schönbrunn Zoo, the Giant Ferris Wheel, the Spanish Riding School, the Albertina Museum. You can purchase a Vienna PASS for 1,2,3 or 6 consecutive days starting at $95 USD per person. Passes are a great way to bundle attractions if you plan on seeing top sights in the city with unlimited hop on hop off tours. Check for more details here.

Updated for 2022 – With the help of Wien natives Barbara from  Vienna Unwrapped  and Anca of  Dream, Book, and Travel plus our from our travels to Vienna, we have put together a list of unique things to do in Vienna with insider tips and local advice.

Where to Stay in Vienna

If you are planning to visit Vienna Austria for the first time The Innere Stadt and MuseumsQuartier are two neighborhoods that you should look at staying in.

• Grand Hotel Wien – If you are looking for luxury, this is it with 5 restaurants, 2 bars, a luxury spa and rooftop terrace. It is close to the Vienna State Opera and the famous Kärntner Straße Shopping Street and more.
• Ritz Carlton – Ritz Carltons are our favourite 5-star hotels, located in four historic 19th-century palaces with rooftop terrace, full service spa, with an excellent central location. 
• Hollmann Beletage Design and Boutiqe Hotel – Walking distance from from St. Stephen’s Cathedral, the famous shopping streets Kärntner Strasse and Graben and the State Opera.
• 25hours Hotel at MuseumsQuartier – A popular modern boutique hotel with brightly coloured rooms with a terrace bar overlooking views of Vienna. There’s Mermaids Cave with sauna, steamroll and fitness. 

1. Schönbrunn Palace

It’s the number 1 thing to do in Vienna. The Schonbrunn Palace (Schloss Schönbrunn) is a sprawling Baroque palace and gardens dating back to the 18th century. Schonbrunn Palace can be visited on a guided tour to explore its grounds and learn of the property’s long history all the way back to the middle ages. Highlights include the 40-meter long Great Gallery and the Hall of Ceremonies.

This guided tour gives you quick access to the interior of Schonbrunn Palace plus you will skip the lines to take a guided walk through its interior. The tour takes you through the 22 staterooms as you learn about life of the former royals. After the tour you are free to walk the gardens at your leisure.

Insider tip: Beat the tour buses and get to Schönbrunn Palace first. To balance out the growing influx of tours, Schönbrunn Palace has moved its opening times forward by one hour. Throughout the year you can roam the Habsburgs’ rococo summer residence from 8.00 am before metros and busses unload most of the day’s visitors.

• Opening Hours: 8.00 am – 5:30 pm. Park open: 6.30 am – 9.00 pm Summer (closing hours vary depending on the time of year)  Check the website  for details.

2. Schönbrunn Palace Gardens

If you are looking for free things to do in Vienna, the gardens of Schönbrunn Palace is one of the tops. The Schönbrunn Park and Gardens is one square km manicured garden that is open to the public. This UNESCO World Heritage Site dates back to 1779 and you can visit Privy Garden, the Orangery Garden or the Maze as well as the Zoo. And you don’t necessarily need to go into the palace to enjoy it if you are looking for free things to do in Vienna. However, if you want to walk through the garden maze there is an extra fee.

3. Gloriette Cafe

Whenever I show friends around, we love to earn our post-tour breakfast by subsequently climbing up to hilltop  Gloriette Café. It is one of Austria’s most famous coffee houses, it serves an imperial breakfast and cakes. There is an outdoor terrace and seating in the grand interior. It is here that you can order Sacher Torte. Sache torte is a famous chocolate cake that is layered and separated by apricot jam.

Or we hang out at charming hideaway Landtmann’s Jausenstation. It is a quiet pavilion and snack bar that offers freshly baked bread, fresh seasonal herbs from the garden, and its claim to possibly be the best Kaiserschmarrn (a fluffy shredded pancake) in the city. It is open from 10.00 am weekdays, and 9.00 am on weekends.

4. Vienna Zoo

Also located on the grounds of Schonbrunn Palace, the Vienna Zoo can be visited as well. It is the oldest continuously operating zoo in the world and focuses on preserving endangered species. The most popular attraction in the zoo is the giant pandas. The Vienna Zoo dates back to 1752 when Emperor Franz Stephan I built it to house his menagerie of exotic animals. Today the zoo focuses more on species preservation and housing animals as close to their natural environment as possible. Many of the original buildings of the Vienna Zoo are still intact.

5. The Spanish Riding School

One of the most popular places to visit in Vienna is the Spanish Riding School. It is here that they train the famous Lippizaner horses in the art of dressage. Originally built during the Habsburg Monarchy back in the late 16th Century the Spanish Riding School used to only do performances for the Court. It wasn’t until 1918 that they opened to the public.

If you are lucky enough with your timing you could take in a Gala performance, but if not, then it is still impressive to watch morning training sessions or jump on one of the guided tours that include the stables, to get a behind-the-scenes look at these incredible horses.

Get your tickets here to see a performance of The Lipizzans. We have done this and it is truly magnificent to watch the precision and skill of these horses and riders in the most beautiful riding hall in the world.

6. Hofburg Palace

Hofburg Palace was once the home to the Hapsburgs but is now the official residence and office of Austria’s President. It is also home to a lot of Vienna’s best Museums and galleries as well as the home of the Spanish Riding School. Hofburg Palace is one of the largest palace complexes in the world and is located in the heart of Vienna.

Walking through the palace grounds gives you a real appreciation for the size and beauty of this complex. Make sure to check out the incredible semi-circular Neue Burg and take a tour through the imperial apartments. There is no doubt you will be impressed by this stunning example of baroque architecture.

You can book this tour of Hofburg Palace to learn of Austrian heritage. Guided tours are available here and this one takes you through the Imperial Apartments, the Sisi Museum, and the silver collection. You’ll avoid long lines at entry and there is easy cancellation within 24 hours of activity.

A real highlight of the Hofburg complex is an Art Nouveau greenhouse – the Palmenhouse. Once used by the emperor as a place of relaxation, it contains the Schmetterlinghouse (Butterfly house). It is a beautiful display of hundreds of butterfly species living in a large tropical rainforest setting and is the perfect place to enjoy a coffee or a glass of wine while touring the complex itself. Hofburg Palace.

In the summer, the terrace of the coffee house opens to views of the Burggarten. This was the former Emperor’s garden and is now a popular city park. The Schmetterlinghouse is the perfect place for people watching for tourists and locals alike.

7. Vienna State Opera House

If there is one thing that you do not want to miss when you visit Vienna it is the Vienna State Opera House (Wiener Staatsoper). Trust me, we missed it and we have always regretted it. Located in the city center and home to the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra, the Vienna State Opera House, (Wiener Staatsoper) was built-in 1860 in the early Neo-Rennaisance style, the opera house is one of the world’s largest and most beautiful. It truly is a work of art.

Insider Tip: The Vienna State Opera House hosts over 300 performances a year. If you want to save yourself some money but still enjoy a show as well as the architecture, buy yourself some standing-room-only tickets. It is much cheaper and you can tour the entire building before the show starts. A perfect way to get a little culture without spending a lot of money. Vienna state opera.

If you don’t plan to see the opera, you can take guided tours of the Opera house that happen daily and let you see the interior of the building. You are also free to tour the opera building on your own. Skip the line Entry is always a good idea to avoid the crowd, book this ticket in advance for a guided tour including a streamlined entry process and guided journey through the building. (easy cancellation and last minute bookings)

8. St. Annes Church

No trip to Vienna would be complete without seeing classical music live. Classical music fans will love This Classical Concert in St. Annes Church. Enjoy a string quartet performing the great masterpieces of Mozart, Haydn, Beethoven, and Schubert. Step back in time with its Baroque ambiance as you listen to professional musicians play in the splendid acoustics of St. Anne’s Church.

9. Belvedere Palace

One thing you will notice in Vienna is that there is no shortage of Palaces and the Belvedere Palace is simply beautiful. This incredible baroque castle was built in the early 1700s and was used as a summer palace (Hofburg Palace was the Winter Residence). Consisting of two Baroque palaces, the Upper Belvedere and the Lower Belvedere this is one palace you do not want to miss if you love art and architecture.

Surrounded by beautiful gardens, the Belvedere Palace also hosts the Austrian National Gallery and the world’s largest Gustav Klimt collection as well as other Austrian art. The Belvedere Palace is open an hour earlier (9.00 am) than most local museums. We suggest starting your visit at the Upper Belvedere and National Gallery before strolling down the manicured baroque gardens to the Lower Belvedere Palace that opens from 10.00 am.

Get entry tickets to see this UNESCO World Heritage Site housing the most important collection of Austrian art in one of the most beautiful Baroque buildings in Europe.

10. Kunsthistorisches Museum

Overlooking Maria-Theresien-Platz, Kunsthistorisches Museum (Kunsthistorisches Museum Wien) houses works from ancient Egypt to the late 18th century. The museum was built for Emperor Franz Joseph I in 1891 to house his imperial collection. The Natural History Museum was opened at the same time and is located across Maria-Theresien-Platz.

This combo ticket gives access to the imperial painting by Rubens, Rembrandt, and Raphael, but also allows access to the treasures of the House of Habsburg in the Imperial Treasury where you’ll see the Austrian imperial crown, the German imperial crown, and the insignia of the Holy Roman Empire.

11. Vienna Natural History Museum

The Natural History Museum (Naturhistorisches Museum) is usually overlooked due to its twin sibling. Most tourists visit the Museum of Art History (Kunsthistorischesmuseum). It is located on the opposite side of the Maria Theresa monument and square across the street from the Hofburg complex.

Built to accommodate the emperor’s acquisitions, it offers visitors the pleasure to browse through its dusty collections and discover curiosities of nature collected by the Habsburgs from all over the world. Not only does it display the world’s finest collection of meteorites, but the aficionados can see here the world’s largest fossilized spider and tortoise. You’ll also witness the best-preserved remains of the now extinct Dodo bird.

Its two most famous residents are the 25,000-year-old statuette of Venus of Willendorf and the world’s oldest figurative sculpture, the 32,000 years old Fanny of Galgenberg. The impressive digital planetarium screens a wide range of informative shows in several languages.

To beat the crowds at the Vienna Natural History Museum use your Vienna Pass. It allows you to skip the line and choose your entrance time.

12. Vienna Town Hall (Rathaus)

Continuing on with the remarkable architecture of Vienna, the Town Hall, which is located in Rathausplatz, is a perfect example of the Neo-Gothic style that is spread throughout the city. Built in the 1800s this 5 tower structure is something that is not to be missed. Vienna City Hall was originally built for the office of the mayor and now serves as the city’s administrative center and is a massive building.

Whether you take guided tours to enjoy the extravagant styles that are on display in each room or you enjoy ice skating in front of Town Hall in Winter, you will see why this part of Vienna is one of our favorites.

13. Austrian National Library

You don’t have to be a bookworm to enjoy the Austrian National Library. Located in the Neue Burg Wing of the Hofburg this library contains over 12 million items and it’s the biggest library in Austria.

The State Hall is by far the most impressive part of the library. Originally part of the original Court Library it is massive at 80 meters long and 20m high! The walls are covered in ornate decorations and of course a lot of books. It is a perfect place to escape the business of the rest of the Hofburg Palace.

 Visiting the State Hall itself costs 8 € per adult and6 € per student and is well worth the price of admission.

14. St Stephen’s Cathedral

Dominating the Vienna skyline St. Stephen’s Cathedral (Stephandom), which sits in the historic center of Vienna, is by far the most important church in the city and Austria since it was constructed in the 12th century. Both the inside and the outside are impressive and we do suggest climbing the 343 steps of the South Tower that lead you up to Steffl’s Watch Room and spectacular views over the city. Entry to the South Tower is an extra fee and i s open from 9:00 am to 5:30 pm

While you are at St. Stephen’s Cathedral make sure to take the lift up to the viewing platform at the North Tower, which houses the massive Pummerin Bell. You can also check out the 14th-century catacombs and jump on a tour to get more information about this historic building. Entry to the South Tower is an extra fee and i s open from 9:00 am to 5:30 pm.

15. Albertina Museum

Museum-lovers will enjoy perusing the art at Albertina Museum. In this museum, you’ll find everything from French impressionists to Russian Avante Garde. See the greats on display from Picasso to Cezanne and Munch to Chagall. What makes this museum unique is that it houses one of the most important print rooms in the world with 65,000 drawings and one million master prints. Here’s a fun fact, in 2018 The Albertina Museum was named one of the Seven Urban Wonders of the World. You can book tickets in advance here.

16. Learn how to waltz

You don’t have to be Viennese to attend interminable weekly dance classes to master the Viennese waltz. The basics of the famous dance are as commonly practiced as the habit of taking a glass of water with your coffee. (In Vienna, we always drink water with coffee). Most dance schools in the city offer afternoon blitz courses. If you are passing by be sure to join in, you may be ready for the next Viennese Ball.

17. Vienna’s Museum Quarter

When visiting Vienna you’ll notice there are plenty of museums and if you like visiting them you are going to love Vienna’s Museum Quartier. It was once the royal stables and today it houses a mix of popular museums in Vienna. The most notable mus eum is the  Leopold Museum showing such Austrian artists, Gustav Klimt and Egon Schiele. Get your skip-the-line ticket to also see the world’s largest collection of Egon Schiele and the special temporary displays that change throughout the year.

You will also find the Museum of Modern Art – MUMOK in Vienna’s Museum Quarter. The contemporary art museum houses work from modern artists such as Andy Warhol and Pablo Picasso

18. Sankt Marx Cemetery

My personal favorite thing to do in Vienna is to visit the Sankt Marx cemetery, home to Mozart’s symbolic grave. Mozart was actually thrown into a mass grave somewhere in this cemetery but Vienna now honors him with a symbolic tomb. Sankt Marx cemetery also has what I think is the most beautiful wild lilac garden in the world.

The St Marx ceme tery was in use from 1784 to 1874. It contains emblematic gravestones covered in wild lilac, as well as the tomb of WA Mozart.

How to get to St. Marx Cemetery: The Vienna Undertakers’ Museum (Zentralfriedhof) and the Sankt Marx cemetery are accessible from the city center via tram line 71.

19. Get a Feeling for the Macabre

The taste of the Viennese for spectacle, ceremony, and formality transcends their daily lives to encompass funeral processions as well. According to a tradition that started in the 18 th  century, the burial is regarded as the last opportunity to impress and take the spotlight, and people would devote the time and resources to prepare an elaborate send-off for themselves. To this end, you can actually visit the Vienna Undertakers Museum which exhibits more than 600 curiosities associated with the process. Moreover, the Imperial Burial Vault of the Habsburg dynasty (Kaisergruft) beneath the Capuchin Church in the city center just off Korntner Strasse is open to visitors, as is Europe’s second-largest cemetery (Zentralfriedhof)

20. Visit the Naschmarkt

Vienna’s largest open-air market is the Naschmarkt and has been in existence since the 16 th  century. Its current form dates back to the 1920s. A traditional mingling pot for visitors, ex-pats, and locals, the Naschmarkt displays stalls selling fresh produce, regional Austrian specialties, and a wide selection of ethnic foods from all over the world.

From Regional Specialties to Food from around the world, the Naschmarkt offers local cheese, oil, wine, and honey shops, to Turkish home-cooked meals, you can find whatever you need. It has Indian spices and ingredients and Vietnamese specialties, it really is a culinary tour around the world.

The market has a wide array of cafés and restaurants, brunch spots, and wine bars, make sure to keep your eyes and palate enchanted for hours. One can also browse through several clothing boutiques, or look for bargains at the traditional Saturday flea market. How to get there: The Naschmarkt is within walking distance from the historic center.

21. Visit Wieden and Margarethen Neighborhoods

Even before the local tourist office decided to ‘equalize tourist streams’ off the center, many people shared my love for Vienna’s outskirts, where I lived for many years.

Among my favorite neighborhoods in Vienna to visit are the trendy neighborhoods of Wieden and Margarethen, where independent local design shops coexist with vintage stores. 

You must visit the Café ‘Vollpension’ run by the baking grandmas. It’s the only place in the city where you can find an authentic experience just like grandma’s house!  And don’t miss the quirky Third Man Museum dedicated to the international hit film  The Third Man  that was set in Post WWII Vienna. For some unique Vienna nightlife, be sure to browse the neighborhood cult bars such as Motto. Even history buffs will find inspiring ground to cover outside the ‘Innenstadt’ (center).

22. Prater Amusement Park

Go up the Riesenrad Ferris wheel at the Prater Amusement Park for a birds-eye view of the entire city. It’s Vienna’s answer to the London eye. Dating back to 1897 The Wiener Prater Park was once the royal hunting grounds. (like so many green spaces in Europe) and is a popular tourist attraction for the whole family. There is so much more to the Prater Amusement Park than the Ferris wheel, at 3,200 acres, the park houses amusement park rides, the planetarium, and the Prater Museum.

23. Vienna’s Jewish Museum

The Jewish Museum of Vienna was founded in 1895 and is the world’s oldest museum depicting Jewish life dating back to  Medieval Vienna. During World War II the Nazis plundered and closed the museum. In 1988 a new museum was established in two locations to tell the history of the city’s Jewish population from Medieval times to the present day.

24. Festivals in Vienna

Even festivals in Vienna can get cozy, depending on where related events take place. Some of the Voice Mania performances, of the Musical Advent Calendar, are hosted at small theatres.  And even some Vienna Festival (Wiener Festwochen) events can be seen in smaller venues, suburban cinemas, and neighborhood cafés.

For local folklife, seasonal festivals such as Neustifter Kirtag or Spitzer Marillenkirtag in nearby Wachau Valley offer pretty authentic dirndl-and-lederhosen atmosphere.

And what about ditching tourist wine taverns for Schrammel-Mondays at the Viennese Folk Song Association in Ottakring’s Liebhartstaler Bockkeller?

Getting Around Vienna, Austria

Vienna is blessed with one of Europe’s best public transport systems. Hopping on and off a tramway, metro, train or city bike is pleasant and easy.

Bicycle Rentals and Tramway

• Either rent a city bike from one of the many stations along Ringstrasse using a  Citybike Tourist Card.
• Or get on tramways such as the D, 1, 2, or 71. The free  Wien Mobil app  will help you get on the next tram, and off in time before it heads for the outskirts.

With the  Vienna Pass  you have unlimited rides on the hop-on-hop-off buses: • 6 Hop-on hop-off routes • 50 stops (short intervals)

Things to see on Ringstrasse Boulevard

The tree-lined Ringstrasse boulevard lends itself to easy exploration by bike or tramway. The Ringstrasse Boulevard is like a compact open-air museum surrounding the historic city center. Innere Stadt (inner city) is known as the historic center of Vienna and most of the top Vienna attractions are located within its city streets. And best of all: you can’t get lost since it is circular.

• The Vienna State Opera House
• The Austrian Parliament
• The Burggarten
• The National Library
• The Natural History Museu
• Volksgarten
• The Museums of Fine Art and Natural History Ringstrasse

You can  book a private walking tour of Vienna  with Get Your Guide. Choose the time to meet and create your own itinerary choosing what you want to see. Easy cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund

Best Time to Go to Vienna, Austria

Vienna can be visited year-round and is popular in the winter months because of its famous Christmas Markets.

• The best time to travel to Vienna is on shoulder season during April – May or September – October. During these months you’ll see fewer crowds and cheaper Vienna accommodations.
• The summer months from June to August are the busiest times in Vienna and accommodation is at a premium.
• November and December are excellent times to be Vienna as the Christmas Markets are in full swing. But expect huge crowds.

Hot Money Saving Tip for Vienna Attractions

Get your  Vienna Pass  in advance and enjoy free admission and skip the line tickets to Vienna’s top attractions. First-time visitors to Vienna will want to see the top Vienna Attractions and the Vienna Pass gives easy access to popular tourist destinations. You will skip the line to avoid the crowds and the pass is valid for options of 1,2,3 or 6 day passes. The Vienna Pass can be canceled for a full refund with 24 hours’ notice.

• Schönbrunn Palace
• Giant Ferris Wheel
• Hop on Hop of Bus RoutesCheck out the Vienna Pass for more details. 

So start planning your trip to Vienna today. There is really no bad time to got to Vienna and even if you do go during the summer months, this guide should help you avoid the crowds and make the most of your stay.

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10 thoughts on “The 24 Best Things to do in Vienna, Austria”

thanks for giving such a great information, keep sharing and keep it up.

Amazing list. I loved it look like such an amazing city and I would definitely want to see it

Hi Anca, planning a trip to Vienna in April with my daughter. Your list is very helpful and inspiring. SRS is the main reason we are going and then we have 3 days to enjoy the rest. BTW, I’m from Cluj, living now in Auckland, NZ. Regards, Ioana

So great to see people wanting to come to Vienna after reading this post 🙂 Feel free to contact us when you are here, we are very happy to share our knowledge about the city!

Anca from Dream, Book, and Travel

I was in Salzburg in 2014, and saw Mozart’s father and Wife’s grave in the cemetery behind our hotel, but seeing your Vienna makes me want to go there.

Amazing list. I loved it look such an amazing city and I would definitely want to see it. I’ve loved all of your posts… Thanks.

How I wish I knew about some of those when I was in Vienna. But, I was there over New Year’s and was enjoying all the holiday markets! Next time, I definitely want to check out the glasshouse. I did visit the Habsburg Burial Vault, which was utterly fascinating. All those tombs lined up next to each other. And the sculptures on some – highly recommend. And, as I love The Third Man and went in search of many of the sights where the movie was filmed, I loved walking around the Zentralfriedhof (and so easy to get to from downtown).

This was a really good read. I’m planning a trip to visit different places around the world. With Vienna being on my bucket list I wanted to get an idea of what the culture there is like. Since I will be backpacking across Europe as a Solo Traveler. I Don’t think learning to waltz is that high on the list of things to do. lol. I’m more interest in the history and architecture and to find some travel photography opportunities.

Amazing list.. I loved Vienna it look such an amazing city and I would definitely want to see it. I’ve loved all of your posts… Thanks.

Vienna’s always been on my bucket list – even more so after reading this. Great tip on taking things slow and really enjoying the city. That is always so important during our travels.

• Attractions
• In the Rain
• Public Transport
• Central Station
• SIM Card for Tourists
• 1 Day in Vienna
• Park and Ride
• Shopping Guide
• Restaurant Guide
• Nightlife Guide
• Lifestyle Guide
• Viennese Cuisine
• Imperial Palace
• Christmas Markets
• St. Stephens Cathedral
• Hotels Near Vienna Airport
• Exclusive Luxury Hotels
• Conference Rooms
• Interpreters

65 Best Things to Do in Vienna [with Tickets & Map]

For your journey of discovery through Vienna, we have compiled a list of the 65 best things to do in and around Vienna.

From palaces and museums to churches, nature havens, and entertainment hubs, to iconic buildings and unforgettable experiences, you will find everything your heart desires. Thanks to numerous hidden gems and a selection of popular tickets , our overview ensures that you won't miss a moment of the magic of the former residence city of the Habsburgs. Let our expertly crafted selection be your compass to discover your favorites among the best things to do in Vienna!

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• Top 10 Things to Do in Vienna
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• Public Transport in Vienna

1. Hofburg Imperial Palace

The magnificent Hofburg Imperial Palace from the 13th century in the heart of Vienna is the largest castle complex in the world.   As the former residence and center of power of the Habsburgs, it bears witness to the imperial past of the former Danube monarchy like no other building, and is therefore one of the most important sights in Vienna.

Today, the official residence of the Austrian Federal President, a congress center, the national library, the Spanish Riding School and numerous museums, including the Imperial Apartments with the Sisi Museum and the Court Silver Collection , are located in the huge palace complex.

• Here is an overview of all  museums in the Hofburg Imperial Palace .

Popular Ticket Options:

• Overview of the Best Ticket Options for the Imperial Treasury.
• Skip-the-Line Hofburg Ticket & Sisi Museum Tour in a small group
• Hofburg and Empress Sisi Museum Guided Tour (recommended)
• Hofburg, Sisi Museum & Imperial Apartments Tour
• Vienna Pass with free admission to the Hofburg (Imperial Apartments, Sisi Museum, Silver Chamber)

Best Ticket Options:

• Tickets for Vienna: Skip-the-Line Sisi Museum, Hofburg Palace and Gardens Tour
• Tickets for Hofburg Palace and Sisi Museum: Guided Tour
• Tickets for Sisi Museum Hofburg Vienna: Small-group Guided Tour with Priority Entrance
• Tickets for Imperial Treasury
• Tickets for Kunsthistorisches Museum & Imperial Treasury: Skip The Line

2. Schönbrunn Palace & Maze, Labyrinth and Labyrinthikon

The most visited attraction in Vienna is the impressive Schönbrunn Palace.  The former summer residence of the Habsburg imperial family is one of the most beautiful baroque palace complexes in Europe and, together with the palace park, including the oldest  zoo  in the world, is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site as a baroque synthesis of the arts.

A visit to the maze, labyrinth and Labyrinthikon  on the grounds of Schönbrunn Palace is an experience for the whole family.  Whoever finds the right way through the high hedges in the  maze  will be rewarded with a viewing platform. The opposite labyrinth and the Labyrinthikon also provide a lot of fun with numerous attractions and playgrounds.

• Here is an overview of  Schönbrunn Palace and the palace gardens .
• Overview of all available ticket options for Schönbrunn Palace
• Blue Danube Boat Tour with Dinner & Schonbrunn Palace Concert
• Ticket for a Schönbrunn Palace & Gardens Skip-the-Line Tour ( recommended)
• Skip-the-Line: Schönbrunn Palace & Vienna City Tour
• Skip-the-Line Ticket for Schönbrunn Zoo
• Tickets for Schönbrunn Palace & Gardens: Guided Tour with Skip-The-Line Access
• Tickets for Christmas Market & Concert
• Tickets for Schönbrunn Palace: Self Guided Evening Tour + Dinner + Concert at Orangery
• Tickets for Tiergarten Schönbrunn: Zoo Skip The Line

3. Belvedere Palace

The Baroque Belvedere Palace  consists of two separate palaces, the Lower Belvedere and the Upper Belvedere , which are connected by a shared garden.  The former summer residence of the Austrian general, Prince Eugene of Savoy, now houses Austria's most important art collection and the world's largest Klimt collection.

The magnificent palace garden in the baroque style completes the fairytale palace ensemble and is perfect for a stroll.  Works by internationally renowned artists are on display in the sculpture garden at Belvedere 21.   Strolling around, you can admire the symmetrical floral arrangements, water basins, a pond, and intricately trimmed hedges.

• Overview of the Best Ticket Options for Belvedere Palace
• Ticket for the Upper Belvedere, including Klimt's Kiss and the Permanent Collection
• Tickets for Belvedere Palace: Upper Belvedere
• Tickets for Belvedere Palace: Lower Belvedere
• Tickets for Belvedere 21: Museum of Contemporary Art
• Diamond Bundle: Belvedere Palace & Swarovski Crystal Worlds
• Upper Belvedere Palace: Skip The Line Ticket + Guided Tour

4. Prater 

Prater  in the heart of Vienna is much more than just an amusement park.  It is one of the city's green lung s and a popular recreation area for locals and tourists alike.  At the same time, Vienna Prater is also a popular sports facility and even offers excursions into space at the planetarium .

This Viennese landmark provides ultimate fun , especially with its amusement park, the Wurstelprater ,  which has been around since the early 19th century .  The main attraction is of course the Vienna Giant Ferris Wheel.  Schweizerhaus , which serves typical Austrian cuisine, takes care of your physical well-being.

• Skip-the-cashier-desk-line Ticket for a Vienna Giant Ferris Wheel ride  ( Most popular option)
• Ticket to Madame Tussauds in the Prater
• Ticket to the Chocolate Museum in the Prater with Chocolate Workshop and Free Tasting

5. Vienna Giant Ferris Wheel

One of the most popular sights in Vienna is located in Prater: Vienna Giant Ferris Wheel .  It was built on the occasion of the 50th anniversary of Emperor Franz Joseph I's accession to the throne and is today the symbol of the imperial city.  

At the highest point of the wheel, at a height of 64.75 meters, you can enjoy an incomparable view over Vienna.  During the 15-minute drive, there is plenty of time to capture incredible shots and admire the city from a bird's-eye view.

• Ticket Overview of Popular Giant Ferris Wheel Ride
• Skip-the-cashier-desk-line Giant Ferris Wheel Ride tickets  
• Flexipass for 2, 3, 4 or 5 top sights (ride on Ferris Wheel selectable)
• Vienna PASS including ride on the Vienna Giant Ferris Wheel
• Tickets for Vienna's Giant Ferris Wheel: Skip The Line

6. Schönbrunn Zoo

Schönbrunn Zoo is located on the grounds of the famous Schönbrunn Palace and is the oldest zoo in the world.   It was opened in 1752 by Emperor Franz I Stephan of Lorraine, Maria Theresa's husband, as an imperial menagerie.

Not only is it part of the Schönbrunn UNESCO World Heritage Site, it has also been named “Best Zoo in Europe” five times in a row.   In the zoo, a train commutes between the Emperor's breakfast pavilion, the elephant house and the Tyrolean Court.

• Ticket Overview of Schönbrunn Zoo
• Skip-the-Line Ticket for Schönbrunn Zoo:  Book here!   (Most popular option)
• Schönbrunn Children's Museum Tour with Zoo Option:  Buy now!
• Vienna PASS with free admission to Schönbrunn Zoo:  Buy here!
• Tickets for Tiergarten Schönbrunn: Zoo Skip The Line:   Book here in advance!

7. Spanish Riding School

The horsemanship of the Spanish Riding School has been part of the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage since 2015 . T he Spanish Riding School is the only institution in the world that preserves the horsemanship traditions by dedicating itself to the classic training and dressage of Lipizzaner horses.  Spectators can watch the “dancing” horses train to classical music during a visit to the “morning work”, the daily morning training of the Lipizzaners.

• Read More:  Spanish Riding School: Performance, Tickets & History
• Overview of all Spanish Riding School Tickets
• Vienna Spanish Riding School Guided Tour
• Performance of The Lipizzans at Spanish Riding School
• Spanish Riding School morning training tickets
• Tickets for Horse Training at the Spanish Riding School
• Tickets for Guided Tour at the Spanish Riding School
• Tickets for Lipizzaner Performance at the Spanish Riding School
• Tickets for Architectural Tour at the Spanish Riding School
• Vienna FLEXI Pass: Save 30% on Your Choice of 2-5 Top Attractions including Spanish Riding School

8. St. Stephen's Cathedral

The imposing  St. Stephen's Cathedral , affectionately called  "Steffl"  by the Viennese , is one of the most famous landmarks and most popular sights in Vienna.  The impressive Gothic building in the heart of the city is the most famous church in the imperial city and probably in all of Austria.

In addition to the breathtaking architecture, in which the patterned tiled roof and the striking south tower stand out, the mother church of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Vienna also impresses with its cathedral treasure, the magnificent view and the catacombs.

• Tickets for a Classical Concert at St. Stephen's Cathedral
• Guided Walking Tour of City Center Highlights
• Secrets of St. Stephen's Cathedral

Best Ticket Option:

• Tickets for St. Stephen's Cathedral & Dom Museum Wien + Audio Guides

9. Imperial Treasury

The Imperial Treasury  is located in the Swiss Wing, the oldest part of the Vienna Hofburg.   With its valuable exhibits, the treasury, which is divided into a secular and a spiritual treasury, is one of the most important collections in the world.

Highlights are the insignia and jewels of the Holy Roman Empire, such as  the imperial crown and the Holy Lance , the crown of Emperor Rudolf II, which later became the Austrian Imperial Crown, as well as precious jewels and the agate bowl , which was considered the legendary Holy Grail.

• Overview of the Best Ticket Options for the Imperial Treasury
• Ticket to the Imperial Treasury in the Hofburg Palace 
• Combo ticket for the Imperial Treasury, the Kunsthistorisches Museum & Kunstkammer Vienna
• Private Tour of the Hofburg Imperial Palace with the Imperial Treasury + Highlights of the Old Town
• Tickets for Imperial Treasury:  Book your ticket here!

10. Imperial Apartments, Sisi Museum & Silver Chamber

The Imperial Apartments in the Vienna Imperial Palace  offer visitors a glimpse into the private chambers of Emperor Franz Joseph I and his wife Elisabeth, also known as Sisi.   The tour shows the dining room, bedroom and audience room of the imperial family.

The Sisi Museum, dedicated to the life of Empress Elisabeth , has been affiliated since 2004.  It displays personal items such as clothing, umbrellas, fans and beauty recipes and gives visitors a better idea of the real life of the empress, who went down in Austrian history as a myth.

• Hofburg and Empress Sisi Museum Guided Tour ( recommended)
• Skip-the-Line Hofburg Ticket & Sisi Museum Tour

11. Viennese Cuisine

Viennese cuisine offers some classic dishes that are a definite must-try! The famous Wiener Schnitzel, prepared from veal, tastes especially good at Figlmüller or Gasthaus Pöschl. Another highlight is Tafelspitz, the favorite dish of Emperor Joseph I. It is recommended at Restaurant Plachutta or Rudi's Beisl. For those with a sweet tooth, there is the famous Viennese Sachertorte , invented at Café Sacher. Also not to be missed is the traditional Kaiserschmarrn with plum roast, which tastes great at Café Central or Café der Gloriette in Schönbrunn. Of course, the Viennese apple strudel should not be missed, which is best enjoyed at the Hofzuckerbäckerei Demel.

• We reveal more delicious Austrian dishes in our  list of traditional dishes in Vienna .
• Schönbrunn Palace: Mozart & Strauss Concert, Tour & 3-Course Dinner
• Traditional Dinner Show at the Vienna Rathauskeller
• Culinary Experience at Restaurant Stefanie
• Naschmarkt Food Tasting Tour
• 4-hour Food Tour with tastings

12. Classical Concert

Anyone visiting the world capital of music should not miss a classical concert to immerse themselves deeply in Viennese culture. Vienna offers a wide selection of historic venues and some of the most renowned orchestras in the world.

Most notable is the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra, founded in 1842. They regularly thrill audiences with Viennese classical music at the tradition-rich Wiener Musikverein concert hall. In addition, the Karlskirche and Schönbrunn Palace also offer a unique atmosphere in which masterpieces by Mozart, Beethoven and Strauss can be heard.

• Tickets for Mozart concert in the Golden Hall of the Musikverein with the Vienna Mozart Orchestra dressed in traditional costume
• Tickets for Vivaldi's Four Seasons concert in Karlskirche (Bestseller)
• Tickets for Mozart and Strauss concert by renowned salon orchestra Alt Wien
• Tickets for Mozart and Strauss concert at Schönbrunn
• Tickets for classical concert at Mozarthaus
• Tickets for Vivaldi's Four Seasons concert at Karlskirche - St. Charles' Church
• Tickets for Vienna Mozart Orchestra at the Musikverein
• Tickets for Kursalon Vienna: Strauss and Mozart Concert
• Tickets for St. Anne's Church Vienna: Classical Concert

13. Hop on Hop off Bustour

Immerse yourself in the rich heritage of the imperial city of Vienna with a relaxing Hop-On Hop-Off bus tour! The sightseeing tour in a comfortable double-decker bus is the ideal way to experience the diversity of Vienna on your own. Thanks to numerous strategic stops, you can hop on and off as you please and discover attractions such as the Hofburg Palace, Schönbrunn Palace and St. Stephen's Cathedral from up close. During the ride, the multilingual audio commentary entertains you with exciting stories about Vienna's fascinating past and culture.

• Overview of Big Bus Vienna Hop-On Hop-Off Tickets
• Big Bus Hop on Hop off tour

Most Popular Ticket Options:

• Vienna Sightseeing: 24 to 72-Hour Hop-on Hop-off Bus
• Big Bus Vienna: Live Guided Evening Tour
• City Card + Hop-on Hop-off Bus
• Tickets for Vienna: Panoramabahn Schönbrunn Express Hop-on Hop-off Train
• Tickets for Vienna: Panoramic Evening Bus Tour

14. Kunsthistorisches Museum

The  Kunsthistorisches Museum (Art History Museum)  was built in 1891 to house  the rich collections of the Habsburg monarchy .  Today, it presents one of the largest art collections in the world. 

The  world's largest  Bruegel collection   and   works of art by the  "Old Masters"  such as Rembrandt, Michelangelo, Caravaggio and Titian deserve special mention.  Appropriately, the magnificent interior of the building also impresses with its richly decorated interiors, domes and neoclassical staircases.

• Entrance Ticket to the Kunsthistorisches Museum in Vienna
• Kunsthistorisches Museum - KHM : Skip The Line Entry Ticket
• Combo Ticket for the Kunsthistorisches Museum & Leopold Museum

15. Mozarthaus Vienna

At Domgasse No. 5 stands the Mozart House, which was  the residence of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart  from 1784 to 1787.  His apartment was on the first floor.  Of a total of 11 places where Mozart lived in Vienna, this is the only one that has survived to this day.

It is said that Mozart spent his happiest years here.  He also composed the operas "Don Giovanni" and "The Marriage of Figaro" in this apartment.  Today, visitors can view  fascinating objects  related to his years in Vienna on three floors.

• Ticket to Mozarthaus Vienna (incl. audio guide)

16. UNESCO Cultural Heritage Viennese Coffee House Culture

At least since 2011, when the tradition of Viennese coffee house culture was declared an intangible cultural heritage by UNESCO , it has been proven:  Viennese coffee houses are not just cafés.  The tradition of Viennese coffee house culture is characterized by a very special atmosphere.  But the coziness and the time that you take when you visit a coffee house are also important.

The world-famous Café Sacher  - birthplace of the Sachertorte,  Meinl  on Graben,  Café Imperial -  known for the Imperial Torte, and  Café Sperl with its delicious pastries deserve special mention.

• For more inspiration, check out our list of real Viennese coffee houses in Vienna .
• 4.5-hour Market Discovery tour with food, coffee & English-speaking local ( Most popular option)
• 3-Hour Guided Viennese Coffee House Tour with 3 specialty coffees, strudel and more
• Tradition of Viennese Coffee Experience with waiter in a local coffee house, Viennese coffee and sweets
• 2-hour Sweet Vienna Tour: Home of Cakes and Cafe Culture (without tastings)
• 2.5-Hour Viennese Coffee, Cake, and Chocolate Tour

17. Natural History Museum

The  Natural History Museum , opposite the Art History Museum, houses one of the  largest natural science collections in Europe . The museum, which was originally located in the Hofburg Palace, is one of the most important natural history museums in the world. The new building was constructed according to plans by Gottfried and Carl Semper and opened in 1789 by Emperor Franz Joseph I.

Today, you can see  more than 100,000 exhibits in 39 exhibition rooms.   Since 2014, a digital planetarium has been one of the museum's main attractions.  Other highlights are the dinosaur hall and the statue of Venus von Willendorf.

18. Albertina 

The  Albertina art museum  in Vienna's city center is located in an impressive palace built by Duke Albert of Saxe-Teschen, a son-in-law of Empress Maria Theresia.  The largest residential palace of the Habsburg dynasty, which is worth seeing in itself, today houses the  largest and most valuable graphic collection in the world . 

Works by world-renowned artists including Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, Raphael, Rembrandt, Monet, Degas, Cézanne, Picasso and Klimt can be admired here.  In addition, visitors can take a look at some of the  state rooms of the Habsburgs.

• Experience art history and the magnificent architecture at the Albertina!  Secure your tickets for the Albertina incl. temporary exhibition here now!

19. Naschmarkt 

Naschmarkt  in the 6th district of Vienna  is the largest inner-city market with a length of around 5 kilometers.   There has been a market here since the 16th century.  Today, Naschmarkt is a well-known sight in Vienna and is  perfect for a gourmet tour.   This must-see place offers you various national and international gastronomic delights in an incomparable atmosphere.  There is also a flea market on Saturdays at weekends.

• Embark on an exciting Naschmarkt  Food Tasting Tour -   Book Your Guided Tour here!

20. House of Music

The  House of Music Sound Museum  ( Haus der Musik) was opened in 2000 and is located in the historic old town in the  Palais Archduke Carl .  It presents the  history of music in a multimedia and interactive way,  starting with the first human musical instruments up to the present day.  If you want, you can even conduct the Vienna Philharmonic yourself or compose your own music.  An experience for young and old.

• Admission Ticket to Haus der Musik  

21. Leopold Museum

The Leopold Museum is located in the Museums Quartier.  It is named after the married couple Elisabeth and Rudolf Leopold, who collected 5000 works of art, including the world's largest Egon Schiele collection, over a period of 50 years. The Leopold Museum is home to one of Austria's most comprehensive collections of modern art and houses works by Egon Schiele, Gustav Klimt, Oskar Kokoschka and Richard Gerstl, among others.

• Leopold Museum Skip-the-Line Entry Ticket

22. Day trip to Hallstatt

One of the most popular day trips from Vienna is unquestionably a trip to Hallstatt. A world of idyllic villages, tranquil lakes and majestic alpine landscapes awaits you here. The enchanting region of Salzkammergut attracts visitors with a variety of attractions, including the fairytale Castle Ort, the famous wooden bridge and, of course, the breathtaking highlight - the Skywalk. During most tours, you will have the opportunity to explore these places before reaching the picturesque Hallstatt. With its azure lake, incomparable beauty and romantic ambience, the town is sure to captivate all its visitors.

• Hallstatt Day Trip from Vienna
• From Vienna: Hallstatt and Alpine Peaks Day Trip with Skywalk Lift (Most popular option)
• From Vienna: Full day Excursion to Hallstatt and Salzkammergut with Boat Trip (in summer)

23. Fiaker Ride

The Fiaker   are  two-horse carriages with which tourists and locals ride comfortably through Vienna.  Totally kitschy for some, absolutely romantic for others, they are part of the Viennese cityscape and are a popular photo opportunity for many tourists.  There are stands for the Viennese rental carriages at various locations in the city.  During a tour, you can visit Vienna's city center and listen to exciting stories.

• Visit a Horse Stable + Fiaker Ride Back to the City Center & Secrets of the Fiaker   (recommended)
• 30-minute Fiaker Ride through Vienna's Old Town
• Carriage Ride through Schönbrunn Palace Garden
• Mozart Concert with Dinner and Carriage Ride

24. Danube Park & Danube Tower

Danube Park is one of the largest parks in the city.  In the course of the "Vienna International Garden Show 1964" it was transformed from a former rubbish dump into a park.  Numerous attractions,  children's playgrounds with sandpits, swings, slides, climbing combinations, ball courts for basketball, game tables with chess boards and skate facilities offer fun for young and old.

The highlight of the park is the  Danube Tower , which offers a  breathtaking 360° panoramic view of Vienna.   A café and restaurant in the observation tower take care of your physical well-being.

• Skip-the-Line Entrance Ticket to the Danube Tower   (Most popular option)
• Flexipass for 2, 3, 4 or 5 top sights (Danube Tower selectable)

25. Karlskirche (Charles Church)

Karlskirche (St. Charles Church) , one of the  most beautiful and important baroque church buildings in Europe , is enthroned on Karlsplatz.  It was founded by Emperor Charles VI,  donated as thanks for the end of the plague epidemic that claimed many lives in Vienna in 1713 and designed by the baroque leading architect, Johann Fischer von Erlach.

The imposing green dome and the  two columns, which are reminiscent of Trajan's column in Rome,  stand out.  Also worth mentioning is the panoramic elevator, thanks to which you can admire the magnificent frescoes inside, as well as the  regular church concerts.

• Experience Vivaldi's Four Seasons concert in the historic Karlskirche!  Buy Your Tickets for Vivaldi's Four Seasons concert here!

26. Museum of Modern Art Ludwig Foundation Vienna (MumoK)

The Museum of Modern Art Ludwig Foundation Vienna (Mumok) is located in the Museums Quartier area and i s the largest museum of its kind in Austria.   Its exhibitions are dedicated to modern contemporary art and include works by Andy Warhol, Pablo Picasso and Joseph Beuys.  A cinema, a library and changing exhibitions complement the museum's offerings.  

27. Heurige

Heurige is a Viennese institution.  Young wine  is served in a wine bar called  Heurige.   The name of the wine has its origin in the word  Heuer , which means   this year .   In addition to local wines, regional dishes are also served.

A particularly large number of  wine tavern s  can be found in the Vienna area,  for example in Nussdorf Heiligenstadt, Sievering and in Grinzing.  Buschenschanken , as wine taverns are also called, are characterized by a rustic and cozy atmosphere.

• Tip: You can discover picturesque wine villages with the Vienna Heurigen Express from April to October (weekends only). The route leads from Nussdorf over the Kahlenberg to Grinzing and back.
• Take a look at our list of the most beautiful Heurigen in Vienna.
• Heurigen Cruise with Viennese Songs & Buffet   (recommended)
• Wachau Valley Day Tour from Vienna with Wine Tasting
• Half-day Countryside Wine Tour with Meal
• Wine and Bike Tour in the Wachau Valley with Wine Tasting & Train Transfer from Vienna
• Hidden Wine Cellars Tasting Experience
• Guided Wine Tasting in a Private Wine Cellar

28. Day Trip to Wachau

With its idyllic vineyards, picturesque landscape and impressive monasteries,  Wachau is one of the most popular destinations in Austria.  The beautiful Wachau, with the old town of Krems, Melk and Göttweig monasteries, are a UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

On a day trip from Vienna you can explore the charming valley along the Danube, be impressed by the  many wine-growing villages  and at the same time unwind.  Wachau is also  known because the English King Lionheart,  whom many associate with Robin Hood, was imprisoned at Dürnstein Castle in Wachau.

• Wachau, Melk Abbey, and Danube Valleys Tour with Lunch in Winter or Boat Trip in Summer

29. Danube River Cruises

Highly recommended during a trip to Vienna is a Danube River Cruise .  It is one of the most comfortable and pleasant ways to explore the Austrian capital.   During a wonderful trip along the Danube Canal you can enjoy Vienna from the water, s ee sights from a new perspective and relax at the same time. There are a variety of Danube cruises to choose from . A popular option is an evening cruise along the Danube Canal, where you can admire the city at sunset. For wine lovers, there are special Heurigen cruises where you can taste regional wines. If you want to top the boat trip with culinary delights, you should choose a boat trip with typical Austrian food.

• Boat Cruise on the Danube Canal with Lunch Option
• 3.5-hour Grand Danube River Cruise
• Evening Cruise along the Danube
• Sightseeing Boat Tour with Lunch
• Cruise and Schnitzel Tour

30. Imperial Crypt (Capuchin Crypt)

The  imperial crypt , also known as the Capuchin crypt, of the Capuchin monastery in the 1st district has been  the burial place of members of the Habsburg  and Habsburg-Lorraine dynasties since 1633.  The bodies of 138 deceased and four heart urns rest here.  The personalities who have found their final resting place here include  Empress Elisabeth (Sisi), Emperor Franz Joseph,  Emperor Maria Theresia and Emperor Leopold.

• Get your ticket for the Capuchin Crypt (with optional guided tour) here!

31. Vienna Central Cemetery

A rather unusual sight is the  Central Cemetery , which opened in 1874 and is one of the  largest cemeteries in the world.   In addition to its spaciousness, it is particularly known for its  Art Nouveau buildings , including the Lueger Memorial Church, and the graves of numerous historical figures who are buried there in  honorary graves.

These include the world-famous composers Franz Schubert and Ludwig van Beethoven, but also Frank Werfel and Curd Jürgens.

• Embark on a walking tour of the Central Cemetery. Book the most popular tour here!

32. St. Peter's Church

St. Peter's Church is  one of the most beautiful baroque churches in Vienna.   Already in the 4th century there was a church at this place, in the Roman Vindobona legion camp.  In the year 792 Charlemagne allegedly had a church built in its place, which is represented by a relief on the east side of the church.

The current appearance of the sacred building goes back to the new building commissioned by Emperor Leopold I after 1701.  St. Peter's Church was consecrated in 1733 and is considered the first baroque church building in Vienna to have a dome.  The numerous  valuable images of the Virgin Mary, the high altar, the valuable pulpit and the free organ concerts  that take place regularly are particularly noteworthy.

• Experience the ambience of St. Peter's Church at a concert. Secure your concert ticket here!  

33. Day Trip to Bratislava

With the Twin City Liner you can  travel from the Austrian capital to the Slovak capital in just 75 minutes,  as the Danube connects the two cities.  The ships bring travelers comfortably from city center to city center every 30 minutes.  A trip on the Twin City Liner is also an interesting mini Danube cruise.  In Bratislava, you can then visit the  historic city center and the castle.

• A popular tour is the day trip to Bratislava with an outward trip on a public bus, city tour and return trip on the Twin City Liner. Tickets are available here!
• Bratislava: Day Trip from Vienna by Bus and Boat Tickets

34. Day Trip to Prague

Beautiful  Prague  can be reached from Vienna  in just three hours by Regiojet train or car, making it perfect for a day trip.  Visit the golden city on the Vltava and explore the  picturesque Old Town and major landmarks s uch as Prague Castle and the famous Charles Bridge.  Shopping fans will also get their money's worth here.

• Get Your Tickets for a Prague Day Trip from Vienna Here!

35. Day Trip to Budapest

Take advantage of Vienna's proximity to Hungary and take a city trip to the Hungarian capital.  A fter a 2.5-hour train ride you have reached Budapest  and can discover the  historic old town of Buda and the district of Pest  and admire landmarks such as the Parliament Building,  Heroes' Square ,  Fisherman  's Bastion and the  Royal Palace .

• Experience Budapest in one day: book your day tour from Vienna with bus transfer and tour of the historic center today!

36. Time Travel Vienna

Time Travel Vienna is located in the  historic vaults of the Michaelerkloster  in the center of Vienna.  Visitors can   go on an exciting journey back to Vienna's past.  During a virtual journey through time of around 50 minutes, you can t ravel through Vienna's impressive history at eight different stations .  Highlights include an original wartime air raid shelter, a 5D cinema and the  Virtual Reality Music Ride  in the Walzer Hall.

• Admission Ticket & "Sisi's Amazing Journey" Virtual Reality Experience
• Admission Ticket, Time Travel and Magic Vienna History Tour

37. Haus des Meeres

In  Haus des Meeres , you can embark on an  adventurous journey into foreign animal and plant worlds in the aquariums and terrariums of the Aqua Zoo.   It is housed in a World War II flak tower. 

About 10,000 tropical and native animals and plants are shown on more than 4000 square meters.  In addition to A ustria's largest aquarium , there is a glass tunnel that you can walk through and the Brandungsriff adventure aquarium.

38. MAK (Museum of Applied Arts)

The MAK is one of the most magnificent buildings on Vienna's famous Ringstrasse. The Museum of Applied Arts shows around 900,000 objects and printed works from five centuries.

The MAK's permanent collections deal with a wide variety of art epochs, such as Secessionism and Art Nouveau , which are so important for Vienna.  Further highlights are the extensive Asia collection and the world-famous carpet collection of the MAK.

• Visit the MAK and be inspired by its fascinating collection -  book your ticket now and immerse yourself in the world of applied design!  

39. State Hall of the Austrian National Library

The State Hall is the most famous part of the Austrian National Library in the Hofburg Imperial Palace.  The collection was originally founded by the Habsburg emperors with the aim of bringing all the books from around the world together in one place.

The entrance to the state hall of the National Library is at Josefplatz 1, not at the main entrance of the National Library in the Neue Burg.

40. Sigmund Freud Museum

The Sigmund Freud Museum is dedicated to the " father of psychoanalysis. "  It is located in the house where Sigmund Freud lived from 1891 until he fled the Nazis in 1938. In addition to  Freud's life, the museum, founded in 1971, also deals with the  history of psychoanalysis .

You can see the waiting room of Freud's practice, his work and living space, and numerous objects such as furniture, photos, letters, telegrams, and books.  Private film recordings, a rarity from the 1930s, are presented in one room and commented on by Anna Freud.

• Experience the world of the famous psychoanalyst up close. Secure your admission ticket for the Sigmund Freud Museum and book conveniently online!

41. Vienna Music Association

The Vienna Music Association or Wiener Musikverein is a traditional concert hall where  world-famous artists played and still play.  Greats like Johannes Brahms and Clara Schumann performed in what is now Brahms Hall.  The building dates back to 1870 and houses the  Großer Musikvereinssaal  (Large Music Club Hall), also known as the  Goldener Saal  (Golden Hall) , whose acoustics make it one of the best concert halls in the world. 

The concert hall is known worldwide for broadcasting  the annual  New Year's  concert  in more than 95 countries.  A concert in these rooms promises to be an unforgettable experience.  Interesting guided tours of the building and the concert halls are also offered.

• Ticket for a Mozart Concert and Austrian Delights Dinner
• VIP tickets for the Mozart Orchestra + 4-course dinner + carriage ride

42. Vienna State Opera

One of the  most important international opera houses is in Vienna:  the  Vienna State Opera .  It was inaugurated on May 25, 1869 with a premiere of Mozart's  Don Giovanni .  The world-famous opera house in Neo-Renaissance style impresses with its  magnificent architecture.   The Vienna State Opera is also known for the  Vienna Opera Ball,  which takes place here every year. 

With its sensational interior, the Viennese landmark offers the perfect setting for an unforgettable experience.  The  diverse program,  which consists of 60 different operas and ballets per season, promises the finest musical enjoyment.

• Read more details in our guide to the Vienna State Opera .

43. Vienna City Hall & City Hall Square

The  Vienna City Hall  in the city center is  one of the most striking buildings in the metropolis  and one of the landmarks of Vienna .  Built between 1872 and 1883 by Friedrich von Schmidt in the neo-Gothic style, the façade is one of the city's most popular photo motifs.  Incidentally, on the middle tower of the town hall there is another landmark of Vienna - the bronze statue of the  iron town hall man .

With the  Town Hall Square ,  which serves as the venue for numerous major events  in Vienna, such as the  Christmas Market   and the open-air events of the  Vienna Film Festival , there are always exciting reasons for a trip to the Town Hall.  In the winter, Town Hall Square is also transformed into an ice skating rink and, as part of the Vienna  New Year's  Trail, it is a popular meeting place on New Year's Eve.

• Enjoy a traditional dinner show in Vienna's Rathauskeller - Book now and experience Vienna's most famous operetta melodies with a country-style 3-course meal!

44. Austrian Parliament

The Austrian Parliament Building is the  s eat of the two chambers of Parliament , the National Council and the Federal Council of the Republic of Austria.  The building, erected between 1874 and 1883, was designed by Theophil Hansen, who designed it in the Greco-Roman style and consistently included stylistic elements from Greek and Roman antiquity in the interior and exterior design of the building.  The  5 .5 meter high  Pallas Athena statue  on the front of the Parliament is particularly worth seeing.

45. City Park

Vienna City Park, which was laid out in the English style, is the city's first publicly accessible park. You  can walk around and find  numerous statues of famous Viennese artists, writers and composers.  

These include Hans Canon, Emil Jakob Schindler, Johann Strauss (son), Franz Schubert and also Anton Bruckner.  The  Kursalon building,  which extends into the park with its wide terrace, is the scene of popular waltz concerts.

46. Hundertwasserhaus

In the 3rd district, on the corner of Kegelgasse/Löwengasse, travelers come across the Hundertwasserhaus.  It is not only one of the most photographed apartment buildings in Vienna, but also  one of the most famous residential buildings in the world.  

The facades are varied and colorful and have no straight lines.  This  expressionist landmark of Vienna  was built between 1983 and 1985.  The basis was the concept of the artist Friedensreich Hundertwasser, who was supported by the architect Joseph Krawina.

47. Graben &  Plague Column

Graben is  one of the most famous streets in Vienna.  The naming goes back to an old ditch.  When this was filled, Graben became one of the first modern streets in Vienna.  Today, the street is an exclusive and vibrant pedestrian zone  in the heart of the city center lined with  luxury brand shops.  

Many buildings date from the 17th and 18th centuries.  Today they include the  Augarten porcelain manufactory , Heldwein  court jeweler  and  Nagele & Strubell   court perfumers .  Particularly noteworthy is the striking Plague Column , one of the most distinctive works of art in Vienna. It was commissioned by Emperor Leopold I to commemorate the plague epidemic in 1679.

48. Mariahilferstraße 

Mariahilfer Street is not only the largest, but also one of the most famous  shopping streets  in Vienna .  The street, named after the former suburb of  Mariahilf , is also often called  Mahü .  In addition to various shopping opportunities, there are  also numerous sights,  such as the entrance to the Museum Quarter, Mariahilfer Church, the Collegiate Church and the Museum of Technology.

The  side streets,  with their traditional  Viennese coffee houses ,  cafés  and  restaurants , offer a perfect opportunity for a breather.

49. Kärntnerstraße

The most famous shopping street in Vienna's city center is Kärntnerstraße, one of the most expensive shopping streets in Vienna.  After well-known department stores opened up in the late 19th century, the street was widened and rebuilt.  Along with Graben and Kohlmarkt, it forms the  Golden U,  connecting traditional inner-city shopping streets.

You can take a stroll through the numerous shopping opportunities or admire interesting historical buildings in the vicinity, such as the  winter palace of General Prince Eugen .

• Read our Vienna Shopping Guide for more information and shopping tips!

50. World Museum Vienna

With 250,000 ethnographic objects and an important photo collection with around 140,000 photographs and around 146,000 printed objects, the World Museum (Weltmuseum) in Vienna's Hofburg Imperial Palace is Austria's largest ethnographic  museum .  Some of the world's most important non-European collection s are housed in the World Museum.  Many exhibits also come from the numerous journeys of the Habsburg archdukes.

The most fascinating objects from all continents include the collection of the navigator James Cook as well as the unique feather headdress works from the time before the discovery of America by Columbus, such as the last existing  feather crown from the time of Montezuma .

51. ZOOM Children's Museum

The  award-winning ZOOM children's museum  is located on the Museums Quartier site.  Young visitors can look forward to exciting experiences, because  they can touch everything in the museum's exhibition rooms , ask questions and learn with all their senses. 

In the children's museum there are the  ZOOM hands-on  exhibitions, the  ZOOM studio  for artistic activities, the  ZOOM ocean  play area and the  ZOOM animation laboratory .

52. Military History Museum

The Museum of Military History (HGM) is located in a former military barracks, the  Vienna Arsenal .  Under the motto "Wars belong in the museum" , it focuses on Austrian military history from the 16th century to the present .  Around 1.2 million exhibits, including weapons, tanks, armor and battleship models, make the museum one of the most important military history museums in the world.

The huge building complex itself is also worth seeing. The most magnificent building in this complex is the arsenal, in which the HGM is located today, and which impresses with its magnificent interior design.

53. Museum of Technology 

The Museum of Technology offers you fascinating insights into the world of technology. The family-friendly museum is not only free for children, but also has an adventure area for children aged 2 to 6 years.  In 2001, the Museum of Technology was expanded by the incorporation of the Austrian Media Library, which represents the Austrian archive for audio recordings and videos on cultural and contemporary history.

• Get your skip-the-line ticket to the Museum of Technology and immerse yourself in the fascinating world of technology.

54. Roman Museum

In the Roman Museum on Hoher Markt, you can discover ancient Vienna.   See what Vienna looked like in Roman times and, thanks to everyday and cult objects such as figures, toys and crockery, learn how people lived back then.  Children can immerse themselves in everyday Roman life at special play stations and with 3D puzzles.

The fact that the museum is located on the site where the officers' houses of the Roman Vindobona military camp stood nearly 2,000 years ago adds even more excitement to the exploration.

55. Madame Tussauds Vienna

Since 2011 there has also been a  branch of the wax museum Madame Tussauds in Vienna.   It is located in Vienna's well-known amusement park, the  Wiener Prater .  Get up close and personal with international stars, personalities from Austrian history such as Empress Sisi or stars of the music industry such as Falko and Mozart.

• Secure your ticket for Madame Tussauds now  and enjoy an unforgettable encounter with your favorite stars!

56. Jewish Museum

The Jewish Museum has two locations. These are located in Dorotheengasse and at Judenplatz , where the excavation results of a medieval synagogue can be viewed.  As a place of encounters and understanding, the museum deals with Jewish life and Jewish tradition in Vienna.

Numerous exhibits on history, the everyday life of Jews in Austria and the Jewish religion are presented. Admission is free up to the age of 18.

57. Burggasse

Burggasse and St.-Ulrichs-Platz in the 7th District is the  new trend district of Vienna   with trendy bars ,  interesting shops  by young designers, high-quality vintage second-hand shops and modern gastronomy, such as a vegan ice cream parlor or the bars  Ulrich  and  Erich .  The 7th district in general, with Neubaugasse, is an extremely trendy district in which many creative people have settled.

• Take a look at our Nightlife Guide to discover more hip neighborhoods, bars and nightlife tips in Vienna.

58. Maria Theresa Monument

The Maria Theresa Monument is not only a symbol of Vienna, it is also the most important ruler's monument of the Habsburg monarchy in Vienna.   It was erected on May 13, 1888 to commemorate Maria Theresia, Archduchess of Austria, wife - and since 1765 dowager Empress - of Emperor Franz I, who herself was never crowned Empress.

Through the marriage she received the honorary title "Empress". The artist, Kaspar von Zumbusch, needed 13 years to complete the monument. The gigantic work of art, which also includes four fountains, i s part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site .

59. Palace Garden with Palm House &  Butterfly House

The beautiful Palace Garden is a public park in the style of English landscape gardens .  Numerous attractions are hidden in the park , including the Mozart Monument, erected in honor of the composer Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, and the popular Palm House .

Home to three pavilions, lovers of Mediterranean, tropical and subtropical plants can marvel at plants from three climatic zones. In addition to the Café Palmenhaus, there is also a magnificent butterfly house where visitors can admire around 400 free-flying butterflies at a humidity of 80% and a temperature of 26 degrees.

60. Haas House

Another unusual building and popular photo spot  is Haas House, which had two predecessors in its current form.  Haas Haus scores with a café, the Onyx Bar and a  roof terrace,  which offers a breathtaking view of Stephansplatz. 

St. Stephen's Cathedral is also reflected in its glass facade.  Since its architecture forms an extreme contrast to the opposite St. Stephen's Cathedral and other historical buildings, Haas House was very controversial when it was built.

61. Hohe Wand Nature Park

Hohe Wand Nature Park in the Gutenstein Alps in Lower Austria, about an hour from Vienna, is the  perfect excursion destination with its animal and natural world.   From a llama and alpaca hike to the Hohe Wand Skywalk viewing terrace, numerous experiences and activities are offered in the park.

62. Ankeruhr

The Anchor Clock by Franz Matsch is one of the most beautiful testimonies to the Art Nouveau epoch in Vienna.  Built between 1911 and 1914, it is actually a bridge connecting two buildings.

If you visit the Anchor Clock at 12 noon, you can witness the musically accompanied parade of 12 figures representing historical Viennese personalities.   It only gets even nicer during the Christmas season, when the parade is accompanied by Christmas carols.

63. Carnuntum Roman Town

A visit to Roman town of Carnuntum awaits you on a journey back in time to antiquity.   Located east of Vienna, Carnuntum was an important Roman city from the 1st to the 4th century. Today there is a reconstructed Roman district on the historical site, which takes you back to Roman times with its antique houses, the amphitheater and the Carnuntinum Museum.

• Unlock the secrets of ancient Rome at Carnuntum, Vienna's hidden gem. Secure your tickets now and step back in time!

64. Lainz Zoo

Lainz Zoo (Lainzer Tiergarten) has only been open to the public since 1919.  It was originally designed by Ferdinand I of Austria in 1561 as a fenced hunting ground for his family. Today, Lainz Zoo is a nature reserve and offers visitors of all ages a unique cultural and natural experience.

There are various offers , for example the nature and forest nature trails, the enclosure with ancient cattle, various vantage points, camp meadows for picnics, a lookout tower, forest playgrounds and Nikolai chapel.  Hermesvilla , Empress Elisabeth's "Castle of Dreams", which hosts various exhibitions,  is particularly worth seeing.

65. Setagaya Park

You can look forward to a Japanese flair in the lovely Setagaya Park.  It is one of several Japanese parks in Vienna and presents a miniature Japanese landscape with the typical elements of a Japanese garden .  Various ponds, streams, a tea house and interesting plantings with Japanese maple and cherry blossom trees fascinate visitors, especially in spring. The park is closed during the winter months.

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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.

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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.

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Two Days in Vienna Perfect 2-Day Itinerary

Last Updated on May 2, 2024 by gregor

So here’s a complete two-day Vienna itinerary, for those looking to do Vienna in two days.

Join us on this virtual adventure as we navigate the picturesque streets, savor local delights, and immerse ourselves in the rich history of Vienna. Get ready for an incredible experience packed into Two Days in Vienna! In this blog post, we give you a perfect answer on: How can I spend 48 hours in Vienna? 

Two Days in Vienna The Perfect 2-Day Itinerary

Day 1: exploring imperial grandeur.

Start your day by immersing yourself in the opulence of Schönbrunn Palace . Marvel at the grandeur of this imperial residence and take a leisurely stroll through the meticulously manicured Palace Gardens . Continue your journey with a visit to the historic Hofburg Palace . Explore its regal rooms and indulge in a delightful lunch at a nearby traditional Viennese cafe. Vienna’s musical heritage by attending a classical music concert.

Save time with this skip-the-line ticket and guided tour to one of Vienna’s most popular attractions, Schonbrunn Palace. Or take this City Center Small Group Walking Tour , with which you will explore Hofburg Palace and other Highlights of Vienna.

Day 2: Cultural Treasures and Hidden Gems

Embark on a cultural odyssey at the Kunsthistorisches Museum , housing a vast collection of artistic treasures. Take a leisurely stroll through the artistic enclave of the Museum Quarter . Visit the iconic St. Stephen’s Cathedral and explore the area with a charming horse-drawn carriage ride. Visit Prater Park for a relaxed evening. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and perhaps indulge in some local treats.

4 Ways to Get Around Vienna

By public transport – vienna city card.

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

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

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

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

View Prices and Reviews

By Bicycle – Rent a Bike in Vienna

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

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

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

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

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

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

By Hop On Hop Off Bus

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

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

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

By Guided Tour

There are some amazing tours available to book in advance on Get Your Guide for people who are short on time or prefer everything to be organized for them.

There’s much to do in the Austrian capital, from food tours to river cruises and bar crawls!

Day One: Vienna Itinerary

Start with a traditional viennese cafe visit..

The most famous cafe in Vienna is Cafe Central, a few steps away from the St.Stephens Cathedral.

My favourite however is Cafe Pruckel close to the Stadtpark and next to the U3 Stubntor subway station.

For other Cafe House recommendations, please read my Blog Post:

BEST COFFEEHOUSES IN THE CITY CENTER OF VIENNA, AUSTRIA

Stephansplatz + St. Stephens Cathedral

Stephansplatz is the central square that sits right in the heart of Vienna.

Easily accessible from anywhere around the capital, simply jump on the underground and head to Stephansplatz Station.

The square is named after St. Stephen’s Cathedral, Watching over the city for more than 300 years, the cathedral is an iconic landmark. The stunning gates date back to the 13th century and are said to be the oldest part of the cathedral. The cathedral was named after St. Stephen, the first martyr of Christendom, and is the burial place of the Founder, Duke Rudolph, and other members of the Habsburg family. 

The cathedral is home to the largest bell known as the Boomer Bell, and the red-marble sepulcher. Whereas the south tower offers you a complete view of the city. 

You will likely see a few Fiaker rides available in the Old Town. A FIAKER is a form of a hackney coach, a horse-drawn four-wheeled carriage for hire.

As well as the cathedral in Stephansplatz, you can find plenty of shopping, bars, and cafes – so it’s an easy way to kill a couple of hours in the city.

Here is a great spot to grab a bite to eat and refuel on your Two Days in Vienna itinerary.

Hofburg Palace – Michaeler Tor

Set in the old town, the palace is one of the best places to spend your first day. However, when you have only two days at hand, we suggest you head over there early in the morning and take in as much as possible. 

Dripping with luxury and style the palace represents the Habsburg Dynasty in every way. A place where you are dazzled just walking towards the establishment, which will continue as you walk through the place. Just thinking about all the history can take you back in time, Covering over 59 acres the Hofburg Palace offers eighteen group buildings, twenty courtyards, and around twenty-six hundred rooms. 

Musemsquartier

From Stephansplatz jump back on the underground, and it’s an easy 2-stop ride on the U3 line to Volkstheater Station. This will lead you out into Museumsquartier.

The Museumsquartier in Vienna is one of the largest districts for contemporary art and culture in the world.

The district is spread over 90,000 square meters, so there’s certainly plenty to see.

There are a few options for tours such as the 1–Hour MuseumsQuartier Guided Site Tour or you could book your Skip-the-Line Tickets to Leopold Museum tickets in advance.

From music and fashion to theatre and dance, it doesn’t end there. Photography, street art, and fine art make this place creative heaven.

However, if you’re not much of a museum fan or short on time, then you could possibly drop this spot from your two days in Vienna itinerary.

If you do try and squeeze it into your Vienna in a day trip, it’s probably best to pre-arrange which parts of Museumsquartier you’d like to see specifics.

There a several Food markets in Vienna, but this is by far my favorite spot you must explore on the two days in Vienna itinerary. Probably due to the sheer amount of food on offer!

Naschmarkt is the most popular market in Vienna! And it’s just a 10-minute walk from the Vienna Opera House.

It offers all of the best foods and local products, including some that aren’t found anywhere else in the city or even the country.

At the market, there’s a lot to see, eat, and drink. It not only caters to locals who need to finish their weekly grocery shopping, but it also draws visitors from all over the world.

Tourists come to the Naschmarkt to soak up the ambiance, hear the noises of an Austrian market, and buy cheap refreshments.

If You are searching for a low-cost, well-respected guided tour of Naschmarkt, go no further than the Naschmarkt Food Tasting Tour.

Otherwise, there is a full 4-hour food-tasting tour of Vienna available here , which provides a more comprehensive understanding of Austrian cuisine. A coffee shop, a traditional market, a bakery, and an artisan chocolate shop are all on the itinerary. While sampling cheese, sausages, wine, and a variety of other Austrian goodies.

Exotic fruits, colorful food, cheese, and hummus, as well as a variety of local spices, abound in the market.

If you’re visiting Vienna in a day , then you have to visit the Naschmarkt.

For more information, please read my blog post:

NASCHMARKT VIENNA GUIDE – MOST POPULAR VIENNESE FOOD MARKET(+VIDEO TOUR)

Hundertwasser Haus

The Hundertwasser House area, which is only a 15-minute walk from the City Center is one of our top recommendations for a day trip to Vienna.

Its brightly colored architecture, designed by Friedensreich Hundertwasser, attracts visitors from all walks of life.

Because people live in the Hundertwasser House, you can only see the building from the outside. They are not allowed to decorate their apartment, so you can only see it from the outside.

The Hundertwasser House is a green oasis in the center of the city, with all the trees that flourish among the balconies and terraces.

In the other direction from the Hundertwasser House, the same artist built his own shopping mall out of a tire factory. It also has a bar and a few stores. All in the style of Hundertwasser.

The KunstHausWien , a museum designed by Friedensreich Hundertwasser, is also worth a visit. The museum is home to the only permanent exhibition of Hundertwasser’s work in the world.

Before continuing on to the next item on your two-day in Vienna itinerary, explore the area and pick up some unique gifts.

The Hundertwasser House is a must-see! If you’re planning to Vienna in two days, don’t miss this one.

• Eat a Wiener Schnitzel

Now that you are in the local mood, it’s time to start eating like a local as well. Forget fancy restaurants and three-course meals. It is time to get down to business and start eating like the locals. Wiener schnitzel is not just a classic, it is a way of life. One that you can easily fall in love with, no matter where you are.

Traditionally a Wiener Schnitzel is made using veal, but with time, it’s now made using different types of meats as well. While almost every restaurant serves a wiener schnitzel, many focus solely on serving one or a few different types of wiener schnitzel. To a point where you can choose from the type of meat, cooking technique, condiments, and even the side.

That does not mean you can just grab one anywhere, it’s best to do your research beforehand and choose a place that matches your taste and budget. Make sure you can enjoy the most out of everything this world has to offer.

VIENNA FOOD GUIDE – TRADITIONAL VIENNESE FOOD YOU MUST EAT IN VIENNA, AUSTRIA (UPDATE 2022)

Day Two: Vienna Itinerary

Schönbrunn palace.

The first stop on the two-day Vienna itinerary is one you save the best for the morning. Schonbrunn Palace was the Habsburg emperor’s major summer residence, and it is today, possibly the most photographed building in the country. The palace gardens are now a beautifully symmetrical public park that attracts tourists and joggers frequently. The interior has been turned into a massive museum filled with history and tales from the past. You do have to pay to enter and you can .

Otherwise, there are plenty of tours online such as this one , which guarantees a delightful taste of Vienna’s cultural landmarks, taking in the Opera and many other attractions by bus, then skip the line for a special tour of the glorious Schönbrunn Palace.

The Schönbrunn Palace’s opening hours are daily 6.30am – 7pm.

Schonbrunn Palace is a great way to end your trip to Vienna, so make sure to include it in your one-day Vienna itinerary.

For more information, please read this blog post:

A QUICK TRAVEL GUIDE TO VIENNA’S SCHÖNBRUNN PALACE, VIENNA AUSTRIA

Belvedere Palace and Belvedere Museum

While the Belvedere Palace is one of the top wonders of Vienna, if you are stretched for time we suggest you make a quick stop at the Belvedere Museum. A place where you will be able to find 150 sacred medieval art pieces, Gustav Klimt paintings, sculptures, fountains, cascades, and so much more. If you have time we suggest you take on the temporary exhibit as well.

Book your Belvedere Tour: Belvedere Tour Vienna

Inner City Center Lunch

At lunchtime, we suggest you stay put in the inner city and grab a bite at one of the local cafes or restaurants. The best part about the inner city is that you will find endless options based on your taste and budget, making sure you don’t skip a meal. However, if you are not in the mood for a full lunch, you can at least grab a cup of coffee and a delicious treat to go with it. 

VIENNA FOOD GUIDE – TRADITIONAL VIENNESE FOOD YOU MUST EAT IN VIENNA, AUSTRIA

Maria Theresien Platz

The largest public square was built to honor the Hapsburg Empress Maria Theresa. There is a statue of the Empress that is considered to be one of the most important monuments of its time. The statue took 13 years in the making, is 19 meters high, and is surrounded by four horseman statues to amplify the impact. Just walking toward the setting you will be able to take in its gorgeous craftsmanship. 

A UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site is called the Legacy of Maria Theresa. Celebrating her stories of tact and grit is a marvelous wonder. The way she reformed the schools, handled state affairs, and took care of her 16 children is marvelous. 

St Charles’s Church

Karlskirche dates back to the Middle Ages and is one of a kind. Featuring a beautiful green-colored dome the church offers intricate details on the inside. Offers you a breathtakingly beautiful high altar, side altars, phenomenal religious artwork, and remarkable frescos. 

The Graben – Luxury Shopping Mile in Vienna

An upscale and tending street that is lined with numerous shops and cafes. Set in the heart of the city, the Graben, Vienna dates back to the time of the old Roamans. Making it a historical landmark that comes with a Viennese twist. 

Amidst the shops, you will find a plague column that dates back to the 17th century and is constructed using marble. Creating a unique structure that allows the marketplace to stand out from the rest. Paired with beautiful window displays and both local and international designers, you are in for a treat. 

VIENNA ELEGANCE AT THE GRABEN

• Wiener Prater – Ferris Wheel

Prater is located about 15 minutes away from the city center and is one of the best amusement parks in Vienna. While it offers you a great deal, one of the iconic symbols of Prater Park is its Wiener Riesenrad Ferris Wheel. 

Finally, a place where you can indulge in some comfort food, relax, and enjoy every moment of your life. A necessary addition for those who are looking to blow off steam. 

Visit a Rooftop Bar in Vienna

When it comes to the Best Rooftop Views in Vienna  and mesmerizing panoramic views, then Vienna has a great selection to offer. No matter if you are viewing Vienna from the top of a hotel, or an open patio of a restaurant, you will be able to take breathtaking views. If you are in Vienna just here for two days, then you must witness these amazing views. It would be cruel to leave without at least trying one of the best rooftops, patios, and viewpoints that Vienna has to offer.

Keep on reading, as this post contains all the viewpoints I have enjoyed myself, and feel free to share them with others.

Best rooftop views in Vienna: 12 Panoramic viewpoints you need to visit

One-day visit to vienna itinerary, vienna state opera.

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

Vienna State Opera Skip The Line Tour Ticket

Visit a Museum in Vienna

Time for some museums. Vienna has a huge range of museums covering nearly every niche, so do feel free to swap different museums into this itinerary depending on your interests.

Please check out this Blog Post.

The BEST 12 Museums you need to visit in Vienna, Austria – Vienna Museum Guide

Two Days in Vienna Itinerary Overview

• Visit Viennese Coffee House
• St. Stephen’s Cathedral
• Hofburg Palace
• Museumsquartier
• Hundertwasserhaus
• Schönbrunn Palace, 
• Belvedere Palace & Museum
• Inner City – City Center – Lunch
• Rooftop Bar

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How much money will you need for your trip to Vienna? You should plan to spend around €120 ($120) per day on your vacation in Vienna, which is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.  Past travelers have spent, on average, €27 ($28) on meals for one day and €15 ($16) on local transportation.

The best time to visit Vienna is from April to May or September to October . The mild weather in spring and fall brings mild crowds. Most visitors aim to enjoy the warm, sunny weather that Vienna experiences in the summer months. Between June and August, you can expect the city to fill up and room rates to skyrocket.

The capital of Austria, Vienna is the kind of classic tourist destination that impresses visitors with its attractions, atmosphere, and culture . Once the heart of an empire, Vienna’s elegance, and grandeur easily delight visitors with romantic notions of what Europe is like.

Is 2 Days in Vienna enough time? Vienna is a city you can stay in for several weeks and still not visit all the museums and many attractions the city has to offer. In 2 days in Vienna, you can get a good overview of what the city is famous for and enjoy some of its main sights .

It is recommended to book tickets for the Vienna State Opera as far in advance as possible, especially for popular performances or during peak tourist seasons. The Vienna State Opera is one of the world’s most renowned opera houses, and tickets for high-demand shows can sell out quickly. To secure your preferred seats and avoid disappointment, it’s advisable to make reservations well ahead of your planned visit. Booking online through the official website or authorized ticket vendors is a convenient way to ensure availability and secure your spot for a memorable opera experience in Vienna.

Planning ahead can help you make the most of your two days in Vienna . You don’t have to plan everything down to the dot, but getting a general idea of what interests you and how to manage your time can help you squeeze in another worthy stop.

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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.
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• 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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Visiting Vienna

Vienna’s Top 10 things to see

The Vienna Tourist Board once provided the media (people like me) with statistics on the most popular attractions in the city. According to their numbers, these were the top 10 sights.

• Book tickets online * for Vienna’s top attractions
• Sightseeing overview
• What to do in Vienna

The ranking is several years’ old but probably not too far off the truth. However, you might prefer to take a look at my personal top 10 sights .

1. Schönbrunn Palace

(The lovely view at Christmas)

The huge 18th-century Schönbrunn palace with its extensive park and gardens typically pulls in several million visitors a year.

A former seasonal home to the Habsburgs and a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site, you can just wander around the outside for free or take a tour of the magnificent interiors.

Tip: The seasonal markets in the forecourt at Christmas and Easter deserve a special mention: gorgeous ambience and high-quality stalls.

2. Vienna Zoo

(One of the many zoo favourites)

Many of those Schönbrunn visitors also find their way into what is the world’s oldest working zoo, given its location in the grounds of the palace.

The biggest pull in this large and modern zoo is probably the giant panda enclosure. Learn more about Tiergarten Schönbrunn and its animals .

Tip: Various indoor attractions make this a super place to visit in winter, too.

3. The Albertina Museum

(The chap on the left is Archduke Albrecht)

This museum in a converted palais has one of the world’s finest art collections, featuring works by Michelangelo, Albrecht Dürer (including the world-famous hare ), Rembrandt, Rubens, Manet, Monet, Cézanne, Klimt, Warhol, Picasso, and many more.

As well as a permanent exhibition, the Albertina offers prestigious themed short-term exhibitions.

Tip: many people don’t realise that an entry ticket gets you into all the various art exhibitions, but also includes a self-guided tour of the palais staterooms.

4. The Riesenrad giant ferris wheel

(The views of the city from up top are pretty good)

Vienna’s Riesenrad counts as a city landmark and a popular stop on any tour of the city.

Much of the Ferris wheel’s fame comes from star appearances in such classics as The Third Man and Before Sunrise .

Tip: the Riesenrad guards an entrance to the huge Prater entertainment complex , which kids will love. Madame Tussauds is just across the square, for example.

5. The Hofburg

(View across Heldenplatz square to the Neue Burg wing)

The Habsburgs’ original seat of power and city residence dominates Vienna’s center.

The Hofburg has numerous attractions, notably the Sisi museum, Imperial Apartments, and Imperial Treasury.

The squares and courtyards are freely accessible, so you can wander around the outside without a ticket.

Tip: the Hofburg also houses the Spanish Riding School . You don’t need a ticket to a performance to enjoy the horses: try a public training , for example.

6. Kunsthistorisches Museum

(The museum café has rather spectacular surrounds)

Vienna’s top museum for historical art features exhibitions and permanent collections covering the antiquities through to Renaissance and Baroque art.

The globe’s most important collection of Bruegels resides in the Kunsthistorisches Museum , for example,

Tip: if you’re pushed for time, visit the Kunstkammer section: a collection of curiosities and wonders with some quite breathtaking exhibits.

7. Belvedere

(View of Upper Belvedere palace)

The early 18th-century summer residence of Prince Eugene is now a venue for special exhibitions and home to another huge art archive (which includes the world’s biggest Klimt collection).

As with the Albertina, marvel at both the permanent exhibition, the special art exhibitions, and the interiors in the two Belvedere Palaces that flank a set of landscaped Baroque gardens.

Tip: drop into Upper Belvedere to see one of the world’s most famous paintings: Klimt’s The Kiss .

8. Donauturm (Danube tower)

(The weekend brunches are popular)

This tall and newly-refurbished  viewing tower has an observation deck plus a revolving restaurant and coffee house. Great (obviously) for views of Vienna and the Danube.

Tip: the Danube flows through the city a little to the north of the actual centre. So if you’re around the old town and wondering why the Danube seems so small, you’re actually probably looking at the River Wien or the Danube Canal .

9. Kunst Haus Wien

(The iconic architectural style of Friedensreich Hundertwasser)

The famous artist Hundertwasser designed the Kunst Haus Wien , which features many of his works in a dedicated museum, but also hosts regular special exhibitions, mostly with a green theme.

The location offers far more than the popular Hundertwasserhaus tour stop, since you can actually go inside.

10. Naturhistorisches Museum

(Sits opposite the Kunsthistorisches Museum)

And, finally, Vienna’s Natural History Museum , where there is much debate as to whether the collections or the building itself are deserving of most praise.

(The same might be said of many of Vienna’s museums. But this one has dinosaurs.)

Tip: catch the Venus von Willendorf statue inside, which is around 29,000 years old.

The best cafés and coffeehouses in Vienna

N owhere does a coffeehouse like Vienna . The Austrian capital's obsession with java has been going strong ever since Turks left behind sacks of 'magic' coffee beans when fleeing the city at the Battle of Vienna in 1683. The Viennese put their own spin on things, natürlich: roasting the beans, adding milk, cream and sugar, and giving coffees their own fancy names: Brauner (espresso), Verlängerter (Americano), Melange (cappuccino) and the like.

Today the city’s Kaffeehäuser are still bathed in the nostalgic glow of Gemütlichkeit that existed a century ago when Trotsky, Freud, Klimt and other great thinkers and coffee drinkers frequented them to read, play chess, devour cake and put the world to rights. But these old-timers are now joined by a new generation of cafés and micro-roasters thinking more along the lines of third-wave, small-batch and single origin.

Below our expert brings you a blend of both. For further inspiration, see our guides to Vienna's best hotels , restaurants , nightlife and things to do , plus how to spend a weekend in Vienna .

Find a cafe by area

City centre (1st district), josefstadt (8th district), mariahilf (6th district), wieden (4th district), leopoldstadt (2nd district), café central.

While Vienna's most palatial coffeehouse is certainly no secret, it's special nonetheless. Marble pillars prop up a high, spectacularly vaulted ceiling, and black-waistcoated waiters breeze around with whipped cream-topped coffees and impressive-looking hunks of chocolate-truffle Altenberg Torte. Since it opened in 1876, famous regulars have included Trotsky (he came here to play chess), Sigmund Freud, and poet Peter Altenberg (note his statue guarding the entrance), who had his laundry and post delivered here. A pianist plays from 3.30pm to 8.30pm daily (except on Tuesday).

Contact:   cafecentral.wien

Nearest Metro: U3 to Herrengasse

Prices: £££

Café Sacher

Sacher is Viennese through and through, sidling up to the city's opulent opera house and done out with ruby-red walls, chandeliers, gilt-framed portraits of Hapsburg royals and mirrors galore. This landmark coffeehouse is all about the cake: namely Sacher Torte, once a favourite of Emperor Franz Josef. A richly iced, dark-chocolate dream, offset by a tangy layer of apricot jam and served with a swirl of whipped cream, it has been the centrepiece of the afternoon ritual of Kaffee und Kuchen (coffee and cake) since the luxury Hotel Sacher opened in 1876.

Contact:   sacher.com

Nearest Metro: U2 to Karlsplatz

Café Landtmann

The grand and the glorious have passed through Landtmann's doors since 1873. This classy coffeehouse sits close to the Burgtheater on Vienna's monumental Ringstrasse boulevard. Inside, it's all dark-wood paneling, intimate booths and 1920s flair. Bow-tied waiters balance speciality coffees on silver platters – including a Turkish-style one brewed in a copper pot. Marlene Dietrich and Gustav Mahler are said to have been partial to the cakes here, which include a perfectly flaky apple strudel. Or come for good old-fashioned Austrian classics such as schnitzel and goulash before a night at the theatre.

Contact:  landtmann.at

Once purveyor of cakes, tortes and confectionery to the Hapsburg royals, Demel has been around since 1786, sitting just across the way from the Hofburg palace. It's an opulent affair, with rococo salons graced with chandeliers, gilded mirrors and coffered ceilings. Peek through to the show kitchen to see bakers at work before the indulgence begins. House specialities include chocolate-walnut Demeltorte, sprinkled with candied violets and the orange liqueur-infused chocolate Annatorte, topped by a hazelnut-nougat swirl. Don't miss one the best apple strudels you'll find anywhere: a dense layer of tart apples, raisins and ground walnuts, wrapped in a caramelized crust.

Contact:   demel.com

Café Frauenhuber

Doing a brisk trade in coffee, cakes and gossip for the past 200 years, Café Frauenhuber oozes history with every dark wood panel, vault and chandelier. Mozart and Beethoven are said to have performed here before the current coffeehouse threw open its doors in 1824. This is now one of the most atmospheric old-school cafés in town. Come for a lazy breakfast, inexpensive lunch special or – what the heck – skip straight to thoroughly Viennese desserts like Kaiserschmarren (chopped pancakes sprinkled with icing sugar) and apple strudel.

Contact: cafefrauenhuber.at

Nearest Metro: U1, U3 Stephansplatz or U1,U4 Karlsplatz

Die Cafetière

Peggy Strobel has poured all her love for coffee and sweet things into this cafe on Wipplingerstrasse in Vienna’s 1st district, a perfect little bubble of 1950s warmth, with its buff mosaic-tiled walls, polished wooden countertop, Thonet furniture and globe lights. The neighbourhood is firm tourist territory, but you’d never know it once you step into Die Cafetière. Order a cappuccino, single-origin espresso or speciality coffee like an affogato with homemade vanilla ice cream. Even the Viennese keep flocking back for the Karl Heinz toasts, the crispest, butteriest ham-and-cheese toasties you’ll ever try, and ‘soul tips’ pastries with chocolate, nuts or cinnamon.

Contact: diecafetiere.wien

Nearest Metro: U2 to Schottentor

People on Caffeine (POC)

Blink and you’ll miss this tiny café, hidden away in a church in Vienna's 8th district, Josefstadt. The vibes and music are mellow, and the coffee some of the very best in this part of Vienna, whether you go for a Marzocco-made espresso, white filter or cold brew. Star of the show are the baristas, who wholeheartedly embrace the third-wave coffee movement and treat their carefully sourced beans with the reverence they deserve. The fruit tarts and cakes are pretty tempting, too.

Contact: Schlösselgasse 21; facebook.com/poccafe

Nearest Metro: U2 to Rathaus or Schottentor

A delicious bubble of faded grandeur, Sperl is as much loved for its bohemian warmth and witty waiters today as it was when it opened its doors in 1880. The great Secessionist artists, operetta-writing composer Franz Lehár and Sigmund Freud all once lounged in its worn-velvet booths. Brass chandeliers cast a soft glow on customers enjoying a chinwag over coffee and milk-chocolate Sperl Torte. There's billiards if you fancy it and, on Sunday afternoons from 3.30pm, live piano music. Be prepared to queue at busy times. 

Contact:  cafesperl.at

Nearest Metro: U2 to Museumsquartier

The aroma of coffee wafts enticingly from this micro-roastery and café on Schleifmühlgasse near the Naschmarkt, which prides itself on excellent coffee from organic, fair-trade beans. In the vintage-looking shop at the front, you can stock up on top-quality beans from Brazil, Costa Rica, Ethiopia, Columbia – you name it. The house blend Alt Wiener Gold, a well-balanced, medium-roast 100 per cent Arabica, with aromas of milk chocolate and almond, is a fine start. Head to the little bar out back to sip one. 

Contact:   altwien.at

Nearest Metro: U4 to Kettenbrückengasse

Kaffeefabrik

If you fancy swimming away from the mainstream coffeehouse scene, this hip, minimalist coffee bar and roastery should be your go-to. In an untouristy corner of town, Kaffeefabrik cuts no corners when it comes to sourcing fair-trade, organic and single-origin beans from around the world, which are then small-batch roasted in Austria’s Burgenland region. The baby here is a La Marzocco espresso machine, ensuring that every shot is superb. Check the website for details of their insightful barista workshops.

Contact:   kaffeefabrik.at

Nearest Metro: U1 to Taubstummengasse

Goldener Papagei

The ‘golden parrot’ has brought a bubble of post-modern cool to Praterstrasse in Vienna’s happening Leopoldstadt district. By day it’s a bright, starkly minimalist architect-designed third-wave coffee bar, with a sprinkling of pot plants (on certain days there’s a plant sale with the in-house florist). Besides speciality coffees, it’s a chilled space for an imaginative brunches, from brownie-style waffles with matcha foam and blueberries to pancakes with acorn syrup, blood orange and Greek yoghurt. As evening approaches, it morphs into an aperitivo bar, where locals hang out over a limoncello spritz or homemade lemonade and small plates like za'atar hummus with sourdough.

Contact:   goldenerpapagei.at

Nearest Metro:  U1 to Nestroyplatz

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How to Observe the Northern Lights This Weekend

The Space Weather Prediction Center said solar activity would be high again on Saturday.

Northern Lights Glow in the Sky Amid Solar Storm

Powerful solar flare activity made the aurora borealis visible unusually far south..

[Laughing] Holy moly. I know. This — I thought it would just be over on the horizon a little — Behind us, too. Yeah. A little green on the horizon. Nothing like this. This is — This is like, ‘Oh, my god.’ Everywhere.

By Claire Moses

Keep an eye on the skies on Saturday night for what could be another dazzling display of nature — or not, depending on your location and weather conditions.

An unusual amount of solar flare activity means that the aurora borealis, or the northern lights, could continue to appear over the weekend.

The solar storm was a level 5 on Friday, which gave some star gazers a clear view of streaks of green, purple and red that arced across the skies. Those conditions are expected to continue, Mike Bettwy, the operations chief of the Space Weather Prediction Center, said on Saturday.

“It should be fairly similar to what we saw last night, maybe not as widespread but fairly close,” Mr. Bettwy said.

“Depending on how everything evolves,” he added, “tomorrow night might actually be better than tonight” for views of the aurora.

In areas with clear skies, the display on Sunday could be similar to what people witnessed on Friday.

If you’re in a place with a lot of bright lights — like a city — it’s going to be hard to see anything. And then there are other complications, like the weather.

Two weather systems on Saturday night could impair viewing of the solar display, said Bryan Jackson, a forecaster at the Weather Prediction Center.

The Northeast is likely to be overcast because of a cloud system that could stretch from the Midwest and center over Pennsylvania. Cloud coverage might also extend as far as Maine, with the potential to clear around New Hampshire.

“This event is strong enough that the Northeast United States pretty much universally has a good shot at seeing it,” Mr. Bettwy said. “It’s just a matter of making sure that the cloud cover is absent.”

A second storm system, which was predicted to produce a fair amount of rain and cloud coverage, is possible over the Southwest.

Mr. Jackson said Michigan was likely to have clear skies between waves of rain. Other regions of the country could have clear views, too.

“In Seattle, it was pretty clear last night and it looks to be pretty clear again,” Mr. Jackson said on Saturday. “Portions of the southern Rockies, portions of the southern Plains are not overcast, but not completely clear either.”

The lights were particularly brilliant over England on Friday, and images of the solar show awed onlookers in parts of Maine and Massachusetts.

A tip: If you are in a clear area, even south of where the aurora is forecast, snap a picture or record a video with your cellphone.

The sensor on the camera is more sensitive to the wavelengths produced by the aurora and may produce an image you can’t see with the naked eye.

Why is this happening?

A severe solar storm is brewing.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Space Weather Prediction Center on Friday issued a rare warning after a solar outburst reached Earth.

As nuclear reactions occur on the sun, it routinely expels material from its surface.

Officials said that the solar activity could potentially cause electrical outages or interfere with navigation and communication systems.

When is this happening?

The expelled material from the sun could reach Earth’s atmosphere by Friday afternoon or evening, officials said.

“What we’re expecting over the next couple of days should be more significant than what we’ve seen, certainly so far,” Mike Bettwy, the operations chief at NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center, said at a news conference on Friday.

What’s flaring up?

The Space Weather Prediction Center said on Friday night that we were experiencing an extreme solar storm, a level 5 , up from a level 4 earlier in the day .

The last extreme event happened in October 2003 and resulted in power failures in Sweden and damaged transformers in South Africa, the center said.

The current storm is caused by a cluster of sunspots — dark, cool regions on the solar surface. The cluster is flaring and ejecting material every six to 12 hours.

“We anticipate that we’re going to get one shock after another through the weekend,” said Brent Gordon, chief of the space weather services branch at NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center.

Katrina Miller , Emmett Lindner and Judson Jones contributed reporting.

Claire Moses is a Times reporter in London, focused on coverage of breaking and trending news. More about Claire Moses

What’s Up in Space and Astronomy

Keep track of things going on in our solar system and all around the universe..

Never miss an eclipse, a meteor shower, a rocket launch or any other 2024 event  that’s out of this world with  our space and astronomy calendar .

A dramatic blast from the sun  set off the highest-level geomagnetic storm in Earth’s atmosphere, making the northern lights visible around the world .

With the help of Google Cloud, scientists who hunt killer asteroids churned through hundreds of thousands of images of the night sky to reveal 27,500 overlooked space rocks in the solar system .

A celestial image, an Impressionistic swirl of color in the center of the Milky Way, represents a first step toward understanding the role of magnetic fields  in the cycle of stellar death and rebirth.

Scientists may have discovered a major flaw in their understanding of dark energy, a mysterious cosmic force . That could be good news for the fate of the universe.

Is Pluto a planet? And what is a planet, anyway? Test your knowledge here .