sightseeing tours of vienna

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The 10+ best sightseeing tours of Vienna – a local’s ultimate list

• Viennese Insights
• The 10+ best sightseeing tours…

We have been living in Vienna since 2008, writing about the city since 2017, and welcoming personalized itinerary travelers in Austria’s capital since 2018. This is our ultimate locals’ go-to list of the best sightseeing tours of Vienna. We have handpicked for you authentic and informative experiences you should not miss while visiting Austria’s capital to ensure your stay feels complete, unique, and personalized.

The following resources might be helpful to you while planning your trip to Vienna:

Our ultimate guide to where to stay in Vienna

Our 3-days in Vienna itinerary suggestion

Our list of best books set in/about Vienna

Shall you need help and support in organizing your trip, check out our personalized itinerary offers , the reviews we received from previous travelers, and contact us . We are happy to hear from you!

Please note that this article contains a few friendly affiliate links. Shall you make a purchase through them, we get a small commission at no extra cost for you. Thank you!

Best sightseeing tours of Vienna – get to know Austria’s capital

I have grouped in this category the best sightseeing tours of Vienna we recommend to get an in-depth overview of the city’s main attractions in an original, entertaining settings that would make your stay very memorable. Shall you attempt to put together an itinerary for yourself, these tours can be used as puzzle pieces to assemble your unforgettable stay in Vienna.

!!!! Click on the subtitle to book the respective sightseeing tours of Vienna !!!!

Vienna Old Town – Half-Day Walking Tour

This is the tour if you want to get to know Austria’s capital not only through its buildings and historical sights but also through quality, open conversation and personalized advice offered by highly qualified and friendly guides.

The guide usually picks you up at the hotel and takes you around the city’s main sights to help get you oriented, but he/she is able to also offer tips for enjoying your stay depending on your interests.

It’s a tour we especially recommend if you are a small group and can share the fee.

INSIDER’S TIP End the tour with a traditional Viennese coffee and cake, melange und kuchen, at Cafe Central , Vienna’s most famous and impressive historical coffee house.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Café Central Wien (@cafecentralwien)

Fiaker (horse-drawn carriage) ride in Vienna’s old town

Now that you have seen the city’s main sights, it’s time to switch perspective. A fiaker (horse-drawn carriage) ride in Vienna is as mandatory as a gondola ride in Venice , and an experience even we as locals enjoy. I particularly like to go on a ride and let the coachman delight and entertain me with stories of Vienna I’ve never heard before while discovering the city from a different perspective.

INSIDER’S TIP If you speak German, try having the conversation with the coachman in his native language to get a glimpse of the authentic and original Viennese dialect. Sure, you might miss a point or two…. or more…

Vienna’s Ringstrasse – 3 hours walking tour with a historian

The building of the Ringstrasse around 1900 was a defining moment in the city’s history, an answer to the Champs-Élysées and the urban remodeling being done in Paris at the time.

A knowing guide will not only discuss the individual architectural styles of the most important buildings on the Ringstrasse, but he/she will also paint vividly the social life of Vienna in the 1900s and how the Ringstrasse influenced the society around that time.

This tour is one of my favourites as it can also be taken by families with children, in which case the guide will focus on aspects of interest for the entire family, making sure to keep little guests entertained as well.

INSIDER’S TIP A stop at the Zanoni’s ice cream parlor at Burgring 3 will make sure this tour is a success for adults and little visitors alike.

Tour the Belvedere Palace guided by an art historian

The Belvedere Palace, located in Vienna’s third district, is a baroque masterpiece that nowadays houses a world-class art museum, including Gustav Klimt’s famous Kiss. Unfortunately, few visitors pay the Belvedere the tribute it deserves during their visit.

During this unique 2.5 hours tour, guided by an art historian, you will unravel Belvedere’s secrets in an enjoyable and highly educative experience.

INSIDER’S TIP To the right of the Belvedere Palace is the botanical garden, an oasis of peace and quiet that few locals are aware of. Enjoy!

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Dream, Book, and Travel (@dreambookandtravel)

Explore Imperial Vienna at the Schonbrunn Palace

I’ll let you in on a little secret – the Schonbrunn Palace is one of my favorite places to go in Vienna and I think an in-depth visit guided by a historian is one of the best sightseeing tours of Vienna you can do.

Sometimes, main touristic attractions like this one hold authentic experiences and valuable history lessons. Myself, I particularly enjoy walking and exploring the gardens, as well as the occasional visit to the Carriage Museum .

This half-day tour will take you through the palace’s main rooms and the gardens, bringing to life the opulence and splendor of the Habsburg court.

INSIDER’S TIP The Schonbrunn Palace has great entertainment options for little visitors, from the Children’s Museum to the Zoo. Adults should also consider spending an afternoon at Europe’s oldest zoo. Our toddler personally recommends the snacks and treats on offer…..and the animals too…

Best sightseeing tours of Vienna – themed tours and unique experiences

Depending on the interests of our personalized itineraries guests, we have spend a fair amount of time hand-picking the best sightseeing tours of Vienna in terms of themed tours. Below are our top choices. Shall you be interested in other themed tours, contact us, we are happy to assist you.

Walk the hills of Vienna in Beethoven’s footsteps

This tour will take you to Vienna’s wine-growing villages in the footsteps of Beethoven, who held three summer domiciles here, and go to a typical winegrower’s cottage.

You will enjoy panoramic views from atop Nussberg, such as the one in the picture below, as well as a traditional dinner at a Heurigen tavern.

INSIDER’S TIP Weather allowing, opt for outside seating at the tavern and do not plan on leaving too soon. The local’s way to enjoy this is to opt for multiple, small servings of food to wash down with more and more wine while listening to the live music and general good cheer.

The secrets of the Viennese Prater – Madame Tussaud’s , a historic Giant Ferris Wheel, and loads of Chocolate

The Viennese Prater is a world-renowned amusement park, home to the historic Giant Ferris Wheel that everybody who visits the city needs to take a ride on. For those who prefer a walk in the open air, the Green Prater is one of the biggest city parks in Europe, offering walking paths and playgrounds to keep little visitors entertained.

As part of our best sightseeing tours of Vienna we had to include activities in this iconic location. Our top picks are:

• a visit at Madame Tussaud’s
• a ride on the historic Giant Ferris Wheel
• a visit to the Chocolate Museum, paired with a chocolate-making workshop and an introduction to the history of the sweet from two passionate connoisseurs

Classical music concert and Baroque ambiance – Vivaldi in the Karlskirche

For those looking to attend a concert while in Vienna, we cannot recommend enough VIVALDI’S FOUR SEASONS IN THE KARLSKIRCHE !, a great opportunity to also visit the interior of this famous Baroque masterpiece

Best sightseeing tours of Vienna – the best for last – themed Secret Vienna tours

When it comes to sightseeing tours of Vienna, we have kept the best for last. Secret Vienna themed walking tours offer the opportunity to explore a topic of interest in-depth, while being able to walk through the city at leisure and unravel its sights, on and off the beaten path.

For example, the   Secret Vienna tour “Elitist and Discreet Societies- the power behind the throne?” will allow you to traveled to the world of cathedral builders, their guilds, and secrets, their craftsmanship. During the two hours, you would, in turn, look at and understand the world through the eyes of the Teutonic Knights, the Knights of St John, the Freemasons, distinct members of the Habsburg dynasty, Mozart, and Haydn. Check out the photo gallery at the end of this article for a visual tour.

Whether you are for the first time in the city and are looking for unusual activity or a long-time resident, a history fan, dark tourism aficionado, or more of a hidden courtyards kind of person, there is definitely something for every taste.

They constantly expand the topics of their tours, so it never gets boring – the world of literature, music in Vienna, the dark side of Vienna , Hitler’s time here, the museum of military history, the central cemetery – you name it, they have it!  

INSIDER’S TIP If you want to join, the tours can be found on the Secret Vienna  website  or  Facebook page , and also shared on our  Dream, Book, and Travel Facebook page . Our customers get in addition a  20% discount on Secret Vienna Tours , all the more reason not to miss them when in Vienna.

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A Comprehensive Guide to Vienna Sightseeing Tours

Last Updated on February 19, 2023 by gregor

Vienna city of Austria is a top tourist destination renowned for its rich history, stunning architecture, and cultural heritage. From the Hofburg palace and magnificent churches to the world-class museums and opera houses, Vienna is a city that captivates visitors with its charm and beauty. For those who are planning to visit Vienna, a sightseeing tour is a must to fully appreciate the city’s many attractions.

The purpose of this blog is to provide a comprehensive guide for Vienna tours. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this guide will help you plan your trip to Vienna and make the most of your time in the city. From the top tourist attractions and tour options to budgeting and accommodation, we’ll cover all the essential information you need to know to plan the perfect sightseeing tour in Vienna. So, let’s get started and discover the most popular tourist attractions of Vienna:

Popular Tourist Attractions in Vienna

Vienna is a city with a rich history and cultural heritage. It is home to numerous attractions that are a must-visit for anyone who loves art, architecture, and history. In this section, we will be discussing the top four tourist attractions in Vienna that should be included in your sightseeing tour itinerary.

A. Schönbrunn Palace

Schönbrunn Palace is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Vienna. It is a former imperial palace and is now a museum that attracts millions of visitors each year. The palace was built in the early 1700s and was used as the summer residence of the Habsburg Monarchy. Today, visitors can admire the stunning architecture, grand interiors, and beautiful gardens that make Schönbrunn Palace one of the top tourist destinations in Vienna.

Must-See Sights within the Palace Grounds:

• The Great Fountain
• The Neptune Fountain
• The Palm House
• The Gloriette
• The Imperial Apartments

Book Schönbrunn Palace & Gardens Skip-the-Line Tour Here:

B. St. Stephen’s Cathedral

St. Stephen’s Cathedral is a stunning piece of Gothic architecture that dominates the city center of Vienna. The cathedral was built in the 12th century and has been a symbol of Vienna for centuries. Visitors can admire the intricate stained-glass windows, the beautiful Gothic arches, and the ornate furnishings that make this cathedral so unique. The cathedral also has a viewing platform that offers panoramic views of the city.

Must-See Sights within the Cathedral Grounds:

• The Viewing Platform
• The Gothic Arches
• The Stained-Glass Windows
• The Treasury

Book Mozart Concert at the Vienna State Opera Here:

C. The Vienna State Opera

The Vienna State Opera is a world-renowned opera house that attracts visitors from all over the world. It is considered one of the most prestigious opera houses in the world and is home to some of the most famous operas and ballets. Visitors can admire the stunning architecture and grand interiors that make the Vienna State Opera a must-visit attraction in Vienna.

Must-See Sights within the Opera Grounds:

• The Grand Staircase
• The Grand Hall
• The Marble Staircase
• The Grand Foyer

D. The Hofburg Palace

The Hofburg Palace is a stunning baroque palace that was built in the late 1600s. It is now a museum that showcases some of the most famous works of art in the world. Visitors can admire masterpieces by famous artists such as Vincent van Gogh, Gustav Klimt, and Egon Schiele. The palace also has beautiful gardens that are perfect for a relaxing stroll.

• The Upper Hofburg Palace
• The Lower Hofburg Palace
• The Orangery
• The Art Collection

Book Skip-the-Line Hofburg Ticket & Sisi Museum Tour Here:

These are just some of the top tourist attractions in Vienna that should be included in your sightseeing tour itinerary. Whether you are interested in history, architecture, or art, Vienna has something to offer for everyone.

Guided Tour Options in Vienna

Vienna offers a variety of tour options to suit the needs and preferences of every traveler. Whether you prefer a self-guided tour or a guided tour, there are plenty of options available to explore the city’s most famous sights and landmarks.

A. Self-Guided Tours

Self-guided tours allow travelers to explore the city at their own pace and on their own schedule. This type of tour is ideal for those who prefer to be in control of their own itinerary and who want to avoid the constraints of a scheduled tour and it also includes an audio guide.

Advantages:

• Flexibility: You can take as much time as you need at each attraction and can visit sights in the order you prefer.
• Cost-Effective: Self-guided tours are often less expensive than guided tours.
• Freedom: You have the freedom to explore the city at your own pace, without the need to keep up with a tour group.

Disadvantages:

• Lack of Information: Without a guide, it may be difficult to understand the history and significance of each attraction.
• Map Reading: You will need to rely on maps or GPS to navigate the city, which may be challenging for those who are not familiar with the area.

Popular Self-Guided Tour Routes:

• The Ringstrasse: A scenic route that circles the city center and passes by many of Vienna’s most famous landmarks.
• The Museums Quarter: A neighborhood that is home to many of Vienna’s most renowned museums, including the Museum of Modern Art.

B. Guided Tours

It provide travelers with a comprehensive overview of the city’s top attractions and provides valuable insights into the history and significance of each site. Guided tours are ideal for those who want to learn about Vienna in a structured and organized manner.

• Knowledgeable Guide: A knowledgeable guide can provide in-depth information about each attraction and its history.
• Convenience: Guided tours take the hassle out of planning your own itinerary and navigating the city.
• Safety: Guided tours often provide a sense of safety and security, especially for solo travelers or those who are unfamiliar with the city.
• Lack of Flexibility: Guided tours often have a set itinerary and schedule, which can be limiting for those who want to explore the city at their own pace.
• Cost: Guided tours can be more expensive than self-guided tours.
• Crowds: Guided tours often attract large groups, which can make it difficult to get a good view of each attraction.

Types of Guided Tours Available:

• Walking Tours: Explore the city on foot, stopping at various landmarks and attractions along the way.
• Bus Tours: Explore the city from the comfort of a bus, with frequent stops at top tourist attractions.
• Bike Tours: Explore the city by bike, with stops at various landmarks and attractions along the way.

Popular Guided Tour Routes:

• The Ringstrasse: A comprehensive tour of the city’s most famous landmarks, including St. Stephen’s Cathedral, the State Opera, and the Belvedere Palace.
• The Museum Quarter: A tour of Vienna’s most renowned museums, including the Museum of Modern Art and the Kunsthistorisches Museum.

Planning Your Trip to Vienna

So, you have decided to visit Vienna and experience its rich history, culture, and breathtaking architecture through a sightseeing tour. But before you start your journey, there are several important things to consider to make your trip as smooth and enjoyable as possible. This section will help you plan your trip by providing information on the best time to visit, budgeting, and accommodation.

A. Best Time to Visit

One of the most important factors to consider when planning your trip is the best time to visit Vienna. The city is beautiful all year round, but there are certain things to keep in mind when deciding on your travel dates.

Considerations for timing your trip include the weather, crowds, and events. Vienna experiences hot summers and cold winters, with temperatures ranging from the high 60s to low 30s (°F) during the year. If you prefer milder weather, it’s best to visit during spring (April-May) or autumn (September-October). On the other hand, if you don’t mind the cold, you can enjoy the Christmas markets and snow-covered buildings in December.

Peak tourist season in Vienna is during the summer months of June, July, and August, when the weather is warm and there are many outdoor events and activities. This is also the time when the city is the most crowded, and accommodations and tours can be more expensive. If you prefer to avoid crowds and save money, it’s best to visit during the off-peak tourist season from November to March.

B. Budgeting

Another important factor to consider when planning your trip is budgeting. Vienna is known for being an expensive city, and it’s important to keep that in mind when planning your trip. The average cost of a tour in Vienna can range from $30 to $150, depending on the type of tour you choose and the time of year.

There are several cost-saving tips to keep in mind when planning your trip. For example, booking your tour in advance can often save you money, and traveling during the off-peak tourist season can also result in lower prices. Additionally, eating at local cafes and restaurants instead of tourist hot spots can save you money on food and drinks.

C. Accommodation

The final factor to consider when planning your trip is accommodation. Vienna is a large city with many different neighborhoods, so it’s important to choose the right area to stay in. Some of the best areas to stay in include the historic city center, the modern and trendy 7th district, and the upscale 19th district.

Conclusion, Recommendations

In conclusion, Vienna is a stunning city that offers a wealth of cultural and historical experiences to visitors. From its stunning palaces and iconic cathedral to its world-renowned opera house, there is no shortage of sights to see and explore.

Whether you prefer self-guided tours or guided tours, there are plenty of options available to help you make the most of your time in Vienna. With a bit of planning and budgeting, you can easily fit in visits to the top tourist attractions and immerse yourself in the city’s rich history and culture.

When it comes to timing your trip, it is best to consider the peak tourist season and off-peak tourist season. During the peak season, you can expect larger crowds and higher prices, whereas during the off-peak season, you may be able to enjoy a more relaxed pace and find better deals on tours and accommodation.

For budgeting, it is important to keep in mind that Vienna can be an expensive city. However, there are plenty of cost-saving tips you can implement to make your trip more affordable. For example, opting for self-guided tours, staying in a budget-friendly hotel, and eating at local restaurants can help you save money and experience more of the city.

Vienna Guided Tours – Related articles to read

• Ride Through History: The Best Vienna Guided Bike Tours
• Best Vienna Hop on hop off bus tours – Sightseeing Bus Tours
• 15 Best Food Tours in Vienna, Austria – Updated 2023
• 20 Best Wine Tasting Tours in Vienna

Day trip from Vienna to Wachau Valley, Austria

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"It's hard not to be inspired by the endless beauty of Vienna, from the spectacular Hofburg and Schönbrunn palaces filled with lavish treasures, to the stunning Lipizzan horses, and the grand concert halls that are truly alive with the sound of music."

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Explore the exquisite Hofburg Palace

More like a tiny city, the Hofburg Palace is one of the most extraordinary places to visit in Vienna. The massive palace complex is spread over 59 acres and has been home to nearly every Austrian ruler since the 13th century. Your Local Specialist will bring the palace to life on a special tour, sharing its incredible secrets and treasures.

Enjoy views of the grand State Opera House and Ringstrasse

We’ll walk in the footsteps of Mozart and Haydn as you marvel at the Vienna State Opera House, a beautiful Renaissance Revival building. If you time it just right, you might even hear a performance going on inside the Opera House, with the high notes of the soprano ringing out over the grand Ringstrasse boulevard.

Admire the colorful roof of St. Stephen's Cathedral

One of the highlights of our sightseeing tour of Vienna, St. Stephen’s Cathedral is sure to impress. This spectacular cathedral is a blend of Gothic and Romanesque architecture, famed for its intricate tiled roof and ornate spires. It’s also one of the most important religious buildings in the country, and it’s filled with fascinating history.

Learn about the Habsburg Dynasty

You’ll be keeping up with the Habsburgs on your Vienna trip, as we dive into the incredible history of one of Europe’s most influential royal families. As you hop from museums to royal palaces, you’ll get to explore over six centuries of treasures from the House of Habsburg, including a sightseeing tour of the Habsburg's priceless royal collection of art.

Enjoy a Viennese Dinner with Musical Entertainment

We’ll reveal the heart and soul of Vienna through the delicious cuisine and traditional music of the city. As you sit down to a hearty dinner of Viennese specialties in an atmospheric restaurant, you’ll relax with a local beer or wine and enjoy a performance of Viennese music, topping off this special night in one of Europe’s most beautiful cities.

Our top 5 things to do in Vienna

We’ve got the inside scoop on all the best things to do in Vienna, from the most iconic Vienna attractions to the hidden gems of this gorgeous city.

Kunsthistorisches Museum

As you gaze up at the magnificent building, you’ll quickly understand why this Vienna museum is one of the most popular in the city. As Austria’s largest art museum, it’s filled with masterpieces by the likes of Raphael, Titian, Michelangelo and Rembrandt, while the museum interior is equally lavish, decorated with gold-leaf, marble and stucco ornaments.

Schönbrunn Palace

Once the summer residence of the Habsburgs, this 1,441-room Rococo palace is one of the most spectacular monuments in all of Austria. Set amongst manicured gardens and filled with grand treasures from all over the world (there’s even a zoo!), you’ll hear thrilling tales and secrets of royal history as you explore the rooms with your Local Specialist.

Imperial Treasury Vienna

If you’re looking for priceless treasures in Vienna, head straight to the Imperial Treasury. It’s home to wonders like the Crown of the Holy Roman Empire, the Austrian Imperial Crown, Empress Elisabeth’s jewellery, the world’s largest cut emerald, precious gold and silks, and even the 8th-century Holy Lance, once thought to be the Holy Grail. 

Best museums in Vienna

In a city that’s overflowing with music, art and regal history, you can’t miss the museums, and our Vienna holidays will show you around some of the city’s top institutions.

Sachertorte

Originally created in 1832 by a clever baker's apprentice for an Austrian prince, you’ll feel quite royal as you indulge in a slice of sachertorte in Vienna. This rich chocolate cake is made with thin layers of apricot jam and smothered in chocolate ganache, and sachertorte is so loved in Austria that it even has its own national day.

Erdäpfelsalat (Austrian-style Potato Salad)

The name literally translates to “earth apple salad” and this potato salad is unlike any other you’ve had before. Erdäpfelsalat is a much lighter version of potato salad, with no heavy mayonnaise, and wonderful flavors rising from the chicken broth and vinegar. You're sure to go back for seconds on your Vienna trip.

Powidltascherl (Plum Jam Turnovers)

Powidltascherl, or plum jam turnovers, are one of the most beloved recipes in Austria, and almost every family has a special recipe for this sweet treat. Made with a fruity plum spread wrapped in a fluffy potato dough, you’ll want to head straight to the nearest bakery in Vienna to try these little delights.

Best food in Vienna

When you travel Vienna with Trafalgar, you’ll be sure to get your fill of the very best Viennese cuisine, from Vienna sausages to sweet apfelstrudel and Viennese coffee.

What to pack for Vienna

Formal attire

If you’d like to spend a night at the opera in one of Europe’s most splendid cities, be sure to pack an elegant outfit to match the occasion.

Austrian-German phrasebook

While the national language of Austria may be German, most Austrians speak a Bavarian dialect, and you’ll find it easier to connect with the locals after learning a few phrases.

You’re sure to be inspired by Vienna’s musical geniuses like Schubert and Strauss, so bring a pair of headphones to tap into the city’s musical legacy whenever the moment strikes.

Camera & extra SD card

Somewhere between the royal palace and the Ringstrasse, you’re sure to find your camera storage full. Bring an extra SD card so you never run out of room for your special snaps.

Comfortable walking shoes

There’s no shortage of palaces, museums, galleries and gardens to explore in Vienna, so bring your favorite pair of walking shoes to keep you on your feet.

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• Tours & Walks

City tours by bus

On a city tour by bus, you'll learn about Vienna and the most beautiful sights in comfort and relaxation – from the "classics" along the Ringstrasse – like the State Opera, Imperial Palace, City Hall, and MuseumsQuartier – through to Schönbrunn Palace or Danube Island, all the highlights are included.

Whether you opt for a guided city tour or prefer a journey of discovery at your own tempo by Hop-On Hop-Off is left entirely up to you. With the Vienna City Card + Hop-On Hop-Off , you'll also enjoy the benefits of the Vienna City Card combined with sightseeing on a Hop-On Hop-Off bus tour.

On the Hop-On Hop-Off bus tours  of Big Bus or Vienna Sightseeing Tours , you can get on and off at the stops along the various routes to your heart's content. You decide when it's time for a break in the coffee house , a museum visit, or a quick shopping stop.

Big Bus Vienna

On the red Hop-On Hop-Off double-decker buses of BIG BUS Tours, discover the city along two routes, which take in the main sights in the city center – from the State Opera on the Ringstrasse to the MuseumsQuartier and Danube Island or Schönbrunn Palace.  Information on the sights is available to you in 14 languages via headsets during the ride. All buses feature free WiFi.

Hop-On Hop-Off tickets for city tours are available for one or more days, from Discover to Explore category, which, for example, also includes a guided city walk and a boat tour. The program also includes live guided evening tours with an English-speaking guide.

One wheelchair can be accommodated on each bus.

Tickets and information

• Online at www.bigbustours.com
• By phone on +43 1 905 910 00

Vienna Sightseeing Tours

The yellow Hop-On Hop-Off double-decker buses of Vienna Sightseeing Tours make their way through Vienna on three different routes . They run round the Ringstrasse with its magnificent buildings to Schönbrunn and Belvedere Palaces or on the Danube route to the Kunst Haus Wien, the Prater or to the Danube Tower. Tickets can be booked for 24, 48 or 72 hours. All tickets include the free download for a self-guided, music-walk light.

Explanations are available in 16 languages via audio guides. For little city explorers, there's a dedicated children's channel in German and English. Free WiFi is available on all buses.

All sightseeing buses for Hop-On Hop-Off rides are wheelchair accessible. A space incl. audio guide is available for wheelchair users (also electric wheelchairs).

• Online at www.viennasightseeing.at
• By phone on +43 1 712 46 83
• By email to [email protected]

Vienna City Card + Hop-On Hop-Off

With the additional Hop-On Hop-Off offer to the Vienna City Card , you can combine the benefits of the Vienna City Card, the official guest card for Vienna, with comfortable sightseeing. The Vienna City Card offers not only free travel in Vienna for 24, 48 or 72 hours on public transport, but also around 200 attractive benefits when visiting museums or sightseeing, leisure offers for the whole family, dining out at restaurants, etc.  The Vienna City Card + Hop-On Hop-Off includes a 24-hour Hop-On Hop-Off bus ticket for a city tour, optionally with Big Bus or Vienna Sightseeing Tours . One child under the age of 15 travels for free with each Vienna City Card + Hop-On Hop-Off. Tickets are available from €46 (includes a ticket for public transport for 24 hours) / €54 (48 hours) / €58 (72 hours)

The Vienna City Card + Hop-On Hop-Off is available

• at Tourist Info Vienna (Albertinaplatz) and at Tourist Info (Vienna International Airport)
• at the sales outlets of Austrian Federal Railways (ÖBB), tickets.oebb.at , ÖBB app
• at the City Airport Train ticket counter
• in the online shop at www.viennacitycard.at
• or in the free app ivie – the digital city guide for Vienna

Learn more about the many sightseeing options in Vienna in the overview Tours & Walks . 

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Salzburg Tagestour ab Wien (die Mozartstadt)

Hop On Hop Off

Verschaffen Sie sich mit unserer HOP ON HOP OFF Bustour einen schnellen Überblick zu den wichtigsten Sehenswürdigkeiten in Wien!

• Ein Ticket kaufen und beliebig oft an den Stopps ein- und aussteigen
• Entdecken Sie Wien mit unseren 4 verschiedenen Routen
• Ticket für 24h, 48h oder 72h

Panoramabahn

Entdecken Sie auf der Rundfahrt mit unserer Panoramabahn Schönbrunn auf bequeme Art und Weise die Schönheit des Schönbrunner Schlossparkes!

• Entdecken die wichtigsten Highlights des Schönbrunner Parkareals
• Besuchen Sie bequem und einfach die Gloriette auf dem Gloriette-Hügel
• Steigen Sie an neun Stationen beliebig oft ein und aus

Wählen Sie aus einer Vielzahl von geführten Touren in & um Wien.

• Hallstatt, Budapest, Prag, Krumau, Bratislava, Wachau & viele mehr
• Eintritte inklusive
• Gratis Hotelabholung für ausgewählte Touren und Hotels

Vienna PASS & Vienna FLEXI Pass

Entdecken Sie Wien entspannt und flexibel mit dem Vienna PASS oder Vienna FLEXI Pass!

• Mit dem Vienna PASS freien Zutritt zu bis zu 90 Sehenswürdigkeiten
• Vienna PASS für 1, 2, 3 oder 6 aufeinanderfolgende Tage nutzen
• Wählen Sie aus bis zu 60 Sehenswürdigkeiten mit dem Vienna FLEXI Pass
• 2-5 Sehenswürdigkeiten als Vienna FLEXI Pass-Option

HOP ON HOP OFF in Wien

• App Guided Walking Tour
• Familien freundlich
• HOP ON HOP OFF | BLAUE LINIE
• HOP ON HOP OFF | GELBE LINIE
• HOP ON HOP OFF | ROTE LINIE

HIER KLICKEN

Und fahrplan downloaden.

HOP ON HOP OFF 24H

NUR JETZT! Erwachsene 33,00€ anstatt 37,00€ | Kinder 18,00€ anstatt 27,00€, Familien-Ticket 80,00€ anstatt 89,00€

HOP ON HOP OFF 48H

NUR JETZT! Erwachsene 35,00€ anstatt 39,00€ | Kinder 22,00€ anstatt 25,00€, Familien-Ticket 98,00€ anstatt 109,00€

HOP ON HOP OFF 72H

NUR JETZT! Erwachsene 49,00€ anstatt 55,00€ | Kinder 27,00€ anstatt 30,00€, Familien-Ticket 125,00€ anstatt 139,00€

CAT INKL. HOP ON HOP OFF 24H

Erwachsene 58,00€

Häufig gestellte Fragen

Die meisten TOUREN sind wegen des Alters der besuchten historischen Stätten zumeist nicht barrierefrei und für Menschen mit Mobilitätsbeeinträchtigungen nicht geeignet. Mindestens eine Person, die in der Lage ist, tatkräftig Hilfe zu leisten, sollte begleiten. Dies gilt auch für Bootstouren.

Die Zahlung über unsere Webseite www.viennasightseeing.at wird in Form von Kreditkarten entgegengenommen. Ihre Daten werden dabei verschlüsselt und sind für Dritte nicht zugänglich. Folgende Kreditkarten werden akzeptiert: Visa und MasterCard. Die Preise verstehen sich in Euro inklusive 10% Umsatzsteuer.

Der Kinderpreis gilt von 3-12 Jahren. Kleinkinder von 0-2 Jahren fahren auf dem Schoß der Eltern gratis mit.

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Vienna Unwrapped Inspiration and Planning For Independent Travellers who are visiting Vienna

Vienna Sightseeing: 15 Places To Capture The City

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April 2024 When in Vienna, where to visit? And what are the cornerstones of Vienna sightseeing? To be honest, even the key places to visit can be overwhelming if you have limited time. On top, a few of them extend to various football fields in size. For example, the whole historic centre is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

For an overview of the best things to see in Vienna and where to visit this list provides a framework. To kick start your travel preparations click on the links to drill into each topic. After that, if you want to flesh out your plans, you can complement the list with more Vienna attractions and selected local museums .

1. Vienna City Centre

2. Vienna Sightseeing Along Ringstrasse

Because of its attractions and since it girds the old town, Ringstrasse makes a great starting point for central places to visit. To move around the boulevard, you can either take the tram, the bike or walk at least part of it.

Access a guide and map of Ringstrasse Vienna .

3. Schönbrunn Palace

Nothing beats a day at Schönbrunn Palace and gardens for me. You still sense Empress Maria Theresia of Austria, Empress Sisi (Elisabeth) and Emperor Franz Josef, whether you tour the palace, promenade in the gardens, have coffee in the Gloriette belvedere, visit the spectacular zoo, or visit the historic marionette theater. Find out about Schönbrunn Palace .

4. Hofburg Imperial Palace

They house popular attractions such as the collections and exhibitions in the Museums of Fine Arts and Natural History, and the Museumsquartier. The clubbings and summer café at Volksgarten, and dining at Palmenhaus Orangery are all part of Hofburg.

Because even vast Hofburg requires a plan where to visit I have put together this compact guide to the Imperial Palace Vienna .

Vienna Sightseeing By Car

5. Stephansdom

In fact, Stephansdom is more than 900 years old. We call it ‘Steffl’ and most of us adore it: the gothic interiors, the glazed roof tiles, even the catacombs. While our school children regularly collect donations we adults listen to ‘radio Stephansdom’. Not to mention that our favourite sweets brand Manner chose Stephansdom as its logo. During classical concerts I think the church ambiente really shines. To find out more what to do there visit my tips for  Stephansdom .

6. Austrian National Library

Whenever I am around, I try to re-visit the library, as many other travellers do, to see its gorgeous State Hall, full of ancient leather-bound books sitting on large wooden galleries under marble columns and vibrant baroque frescoes.

Read my review of the Austrian National Library

7. Karlskirche

8. Augarten

9. Vienna Secession

The Secession is easy to integrate into your sightseeing programme. It is located between Naschmarkt and the Vienna State Opera. Make sure you see Gustav Klimt’s gigantic masterpiece inside. Find out more about Vienna secession and which tours are available.

10. The Rathaus

11. Central Cemetery Vienna

12. A Fabulous Rooftop View

It turned out they are mostly in the unexpected locations. To find out more, go to Best Rooftop Views in Vienna .

Extra Vienna Sightseeing

13. hitler in vienna.

In my post Hitler in Vienna I’m sharing the top 10 key sites and museums related to the Führer and Nazi Vienna.

14. Flak Towers

In this Vienna flak tower guide you will find details about all six flak towers, where they are located and which of them is open to the public, along with a map.

15. Gasometer City

While off the main list of tourist attractions, Gasometer City beautifully blends historic and contemporary architecture. Actually, this former industrial area has transformed into one of the best modern Vienna sights.

About 20 years ago, four architects transformed four gigantic brick cylinders into a town within a town. French star architect Jean Nouvel was one of them. Gasometer City is a protected monument, and a statement of urban re-generation. It teaches you a lot about local design and lifestyle. The residential community is the closest knit in all Vienna. Visiting Gasometer City takes you off the beaten track and inside modern day Vienna. I did a guided tour at Gasometer City and loved it.

More Vienna Sightseeing: Picture Galleries

Browse through image galleries of famous landmarks, the most beautiful palaces, opera houses and concert halls, and a few of my favourite wineries.

going off the beaten track in Vienna, where to visit? explore these 10 off-beat travel tips for Vienna

go to Vienna Tours  – 5 Ways To See Tourist Places In Vienna visit  Vienna Walks  – Six Routes And Maps For Your Sightseeing back to What To Do In Vienna go to Vienna Unwrapped homepage

Karlskirche Vienna: How To Turn It Into Your Best Church Visit

With no shortage of churches, Karlskirche Vienna – aka Church St. Charles Borromeo – ranks …