vienna travel guide

Nomadic Matt's Travel Site

Travel Better, Cheaper, Longer

Vienna Travel Guide

Last Updated: August 9, 2023

Vienna. Home to schnitzel, Freud, Mozart, the Habsburgs, opera, art, coffee shops, and so much more.

Over the decade I have been visiting this city, I’ve watched Vienna change from a stiff capital city to a cool, hip, foodie, and arty paradise. (Ok, it’s always been an arty paradise and maybe the “stiff capital” was just my incorrect first impression.)

Since my first visit, I’ve come to appreciate the city and all it has to offer. Vienna has countless museums, palaces, markets, restaurants, quirky art exhibits, delicious food halls, neighbors a wonderful wine region, and is a quick train trip to Bratislava .

There’s a lot to do in Vienna and you can easily spend weeks trying to see it all. In fact, there’s so much to do here that I advise you to spend an extra day here. If you think three days is enough, spend four. If you’re here for four, spend five.

No matter how long you plan to be in the city, this Vienna travel guide can help you plan the perfect trip — and save money along the way!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Vienna

Click Here for City Guides

Top 5 things to see and do in vienna.

1. See Belvedere Palace

The Belvedere is home to an incredible art collection with works by Renoir, Monet, and Van Gogh, among others. It also has a large portrait collection. The Palace has a permanent collection at the Upper Belvedere while special exhibitions are held at the Lower Belvedere (contemporary art is located at the Belvedere 21, which is nearby). The free grounds feature beautiful fountains, gravel walkways, ponds, statues, plants, and flowers. Admission is 16 EUR and guided tours can be booked in advance for a flat rate fee of 90 EUR for up to 20 people. Belvedere 21 is closed on Mondays but has late night opening on Thursdays.

2. Visit Schonbrunn Palace

This 1,441-room palace is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and started off as a hunting lodge before becoming the summer residence of the Habsburgs, one of the most prominent dynasties in European history, during the 1700s. It’s now one of Vienna’s top attractions. The interior is incredibly ornate with paintings, woodwork, chandeliers, and elaborate decorations. You can explore 22 rooms with the Imperial Tour (18 EUR) or 40 rooms with the Grand Tour (22 EUR). You could easily fill a whole day here.

3. Explore the Hofburg Imperial Palace

One of the biggest palace complexes in the world, the Hofburg is the official residence of the President of Austria. Previously, it was the principal palace of the Habsburg dynasty for more than 7 centuries. There are several exhibits here, including the Sisi exhibit (which highlights the life of Empress Elisabeth) and the royal apartments themselves. The famous Vienna Boys Choir performs at High Mass at the Gothic Imperial Chapel every Sunday. The Sisi costs 16 EUR and includes admission to the Sisi Museum, the Imperial Apartments, and the Imperial Silver Collection. Free audio guides & printed descriptions are available.

4. Visit the Mozart Museum

Though Mozart lived at a handful of different addresses in Vienna, this is the only apartment that has survived. He lived here from 1784-1787. Spread over 3 floors, you can learn about his life, family, music, friends, and listen to his work. The exhibit on the first floor, consisting of four large rooms, two small rooms and a kitchen, is where Mozart and his family actually lived although you have to use your imagination as there is not much left of original furniture and not much is known about how the rooms looked or what they were used for. There’s a variety of paintings, artifacts, letters, and memorabilia from his life as well. Admission is 12 EUR.

5. Do a Wine Tour

Other things to see and do in vienna, 1. see st. stephen’s cathedral.

Stephansdom is a 12th-century Romanesque and Gothic cathedral in Vienna, noted for its colorful roof. The cathedral has been destroyed and rebuilt over the years, with the current version of the cathedral largely initiated by Duke Rudolf IV (1339–1365). Its most recent reconstruction took place just after World War II. You can take a tour of the cathedral, the catacombs, and climb the north and south towers (which offer excellent views of the city). Admission is 20 EUR, guided tours are 3.50 EUR and audio guides are 6 EUR. Catacomb tours are 6 EUR and going up the towers costs 5.50 EUR for the South Tower and 6 EUR for the North Tower.

2. Go to the Naschmarkt

This is Vienna’s largest open-air food market. It’s been operating for hundreds of years and has more than 100 stalls with a variety of international restaurants, street stalls, and grocers. It’s a little touristy (don’t go food shopping here) but it has a cool vibe and, on a warm sunny day, it’s nice to sit out with a meal and a glass of wine. Despite its fame, there are still a lot of locals here. Be sure to hit up Umarfisch for seafood and wine. On Saturdays, there’s a flea market here too.

3. See the art in the Museumsquartier

Once the imperial stables, the Museumsquartier is home to all kinds of art and cultural institutions and events. Three museums worth checking out in the MQ are the Leopold Museum for Art Nouveau and Expressionism; Kunsthalle Wien, an exhibition center with rotating exhibitions; and the Museum of Modern Art, which has the largest collection of modern art in central Europe. A pass to all three museums is 27.50 EUR. The Museumsquartier is also home to a number of festivals throughout the year (including open-air concerts and a fashion week). A variety of tours are run on some Saturdays including a backstage tour offering the chance to see behind the studio doors of the guest artists.

4. Visit the House of Music

This is a small but fascinating museum that features four floors of exhibits on some of the world’s most well-known Austrian composers, including Mozart, Schubert, Strauss, and Schoenberg. You can view manuscripts and artifacts, and there’s also a virtual stage where you can conduct your own symphony. It’s fun, interactive, and educational. Admission is 16 EUR.

5. See a classical performance

Austria has contributed its fair share of composers to the world, so it’s no surprise that you can find plenty of opportunities to indulge in the classics here. Just going to one of the many theaters and concert halls in Vienna is an experience in and of itself as the buildings are so historic and beautifully decorated. If you’ve ever considered taking in an opera, symphony, or ballet (the Vienna State Ballet is one of the best in the world), this is the place to do it. Prices vary depending on the performance but expect to pay at least 40 EUR for standard tickets. For opera, I recommend buying last-minute standing-room tickets for 4-18 EUR the day of a show. The 435 tickets usually go on sale 80 minutes before it starts (you can line up earlier than that, but they don’t start selling until right before the show). It’s first come, first served and you can only buy one ticket per person but it’s the cheapest way to see a performance!

6. Visit the Museum of Art History

This is the largest art museum in the country, with works from ancient Egypt and Greece through to the 18th century. There are over 700,000 items in the collections so it’s worth taking the time to explore (especially if you’re a history buff like me). Opened in 1891, the primary collection originally belonged to the Habsburgs, which includes tons of portraits and armor. Admission is 18 EUR.

7. Hang out in the Jewish Square

For centuries, Vienna was home to a sizable Jewish population. Then the Nazis came. This area of town features two important museums: the Vienna Jewish Museum, which details the role Viennese Jews played in the development of city life; and the Medieval Synagogue (Misrachi-Haus), which highlights the history of Jewish life in Vienna. Admission is 12 EUR and includes entry to both sites within four days of issue. There is also the sobering Holocaust memorial nearby, designed by British artist Rachel Whiteread.

8. Walk the Ring Road

This historic loop is brimming with beautiful architecture. It’s here where you can find the Parliament building, City Hall, both the Museum of Fine Art and the National History Museum, as well as the State Opera. It’s a relaxing (and free) way to spend some time soaking up the city and admiring its history.

9. Visit the Freud Museum

Sigmund Freud, the famous founder of psychoanalysis, lived in this apartment-turned-museum from 1891-1938. The museum was opened in 1971 with the help of Anna Freud (his youngest daughter) and is home to the original furniture, Freud’s private collection of antiques, and first editions of his works. There are also films from his private life. It’s small and only takes about an hour to visit. Admission is 14 EUR.

10. Visit the Albertina

The Albertina is one of the best museums in the city (which says a lot because this is a city of museums). It’s housed in one of the private residence wings of the Imperial Palace. It’s most famous for its print collection, which is comprised of over one million prints and 60,000 drawings. However, they have a lot of temporary exhibits that rotate through here too, which I found to be the highlight (I saw an excellent one on Raphael, the famous Italian Renaissance painter). Admission to the Albertina and the Albertina Modern costs 2.90 EUR.

11. Visit the National History Museum

Home to a detailed anthropology exhibit, as well as a planetarium and prehistoric exhibit, the National History Museum is worth the time if you’re a museum buff. Their collection boasts over 100,000 items, including a huge collection of meteorites. It’s also home to the 25,000-year-old Venus of Willendorf statue, which was discovered in Austria. There’s also a planetarium that offers shows in German and English (the live shows are only available in German). Admission is 14 EUR.

12. Day trip to Bratislava

Slovakia’s capital of Bratislava makes for a great day trip from Vienna. Located just one hour away, you can easily head there for a day to explore its charming medieval center, see its several castles, drink at the historic beer halls, and stroll along the Danube. Bratislava is a relatively small capital so it’s easy to get around on foot. Trains depart regularly from Vienna for as little as 11 EUR, while Flixbus runs a regular bus service with tickets starting at around 6 EUR.

13. Explore Vienna Woods

This beautiful woodland (known as Wienerwald) is located on the outskirts of the city and is filled with a lot of hiking paths. It’s located around 30 kilometers (19 miles) from the city, extremely popular with locals (few tourists get out there). If you don’t have a vehicle, you can take public transportation or try the ride-sharing service BlaBlaCar. It’s a nice place to relax with a book, stroll, and enjoy the laid-back pace of life.

Vienna Travel Costs

For anyone traveling with a tent, camping is available outside the city. Camping in Vienna starts around 8 EUR per night in the low season for a single tent site without electricity and around 22 EUR in the peak season (July-August).

Budget hotel prices – Two-star budget hotels start around 40 EUR per night for a double or twin but often cost closer to 60-80 EUR. This usually includes free Wi-Fi and basic amenities (TV, coffee maker) but rarely free breakfast.

Airbnb is another budget-friendly option here, with private rooms starting around 50 EUR per night. For an entire home or apartment, expect to pay at least 65 EUR per night (though prices average around 90 EUR).

Food – Austrian cuisine is a hearty, meat-oriented one, with a focus on meat, soups, stews, and pastries. The country’s food has been influenced by its neighbors in Central Europe, as well as from the expansion of the Austro-Hungarian Empire (1867–1918). Popular dishes include rindsuppe (beef soup), smoked meat with sauerkraut, wiener schnitzel (traditionally made from veal), strudel, and tafelspitz (beef boiled in broth). Breakfast usually involves bread or rolls with cold cuts, jam, or cheese.

A typical inexpensive restaurant meal costs around 15 EUR. Expect to pay at least 35 EUR for a three-course meal at a mid-range restaurant.

If you’re on a budget, stick to eating at the local markets where you can find a great selection of traditional Austrian food (like schnitzel, goulash, sausages, and potatoes) as well as Asian, Greek, and Middle Eastern dishes for around 8-16 EUR.

Fast food like McDonald’s or Burger King costs around 9 EUR for a combo meal. A large pizza should cost less than 20 EUR while Chinese food is 9-15 EUR for a main dish. Sandwiches and salads cost between 7-9 EUR.

A beer at the bar costs around 4.25 EUR while a latte/cappuccino costs 3.80 EUR. Bottled water is 2 EUR.

If you are planning to cook your own food, a week’s worth of groceries costs around 30-50 EUR for basic staples like rice, pasta, vegetables, and some meat. Hofer and Penny Markt are two of the cheaper supermarket options for groceries. For more organic options (or if you have dietary restrictions), shop at Spar.

For tasty open-faced sandwiches, check out Piotrowski. And if you’re vegan or vegetarian, head to The LaLa (healthy eats and tasty baked goods) or Swing Kitchen (fast food/burgers).

Backpacking Vienna Suggested Budgets

On a backpacker budget of 65 EUR per day, you can stay in a hostel dorm, cook all of your meals, visit a few museums, take a free walking tour, limit your drinking, and take local transportation to get around. If you plan on drinking, add 5-10 EUR to your budget per day.

On a mid-range budget of about 170 EUR, you can stay in an Airbnb or private hostel room, eat out for most meals, have a few drinks at the bar, see more museums and palaces, a day trip to Bratislava, and take the occasional taxi to get around.

On a “luxury” budget of 300 EUR per day, you can stay in a hotel, eat out for all your meals, drink out at the bar as much as you’d like, rent a car or take taxis to get around, and do private guided tours. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Prices are in EUR.

Vienna Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Vienna can be an expensive city if you don’t watch your budget. Accommodation, coffees, museums, and eating out can add up quickly. Here are some tips to help you save money when you visit Vienna:

• Take a free walking tour – Vienna offers a handful of free walking tours which are great ways to get familiar with the city and the culture. Good Tours , Anna Loves Vienna , Vienna Greeters , and The Original Free Vienna Walking Tour are all great options. Just be sure to tip your guide!
• Cook your own meals – If you want to save money on your food budget, stay in a hostel or Airbnb with a kitchen. Buying your own groceries may not be as glamorous as eating out, but it saves you money!
• Stay with a local – Staying with a local via Couchsurfing (or similar sharing economy sites) is a great way to save money. It’s also a great way to meet a knowledgeable local who can help you better understand the city and its people.
• Skip the fast train into Vienna – Unless you are in a rush to get downtown, skip the City Airport Train. It’s 11 EUR compared to the regular train (which is 4.30 EUR). The time difference is negligible, and that extra 6.70 EUR could be better spent on a cold beer!
• Get a Vienna PASS – With the Vienna PASS you get entry to over 60 attractions, museums, and monuments throughout the city. It costs 76 EUR for a one-day pass but if you’re planning to visit several of Vienna’s most popular museums/galleries then getting the pass could save you a fair amount of money especially as it has an option for public transportation too! If you’d rather not spend that much, some of the museums (that also belong to Vienna Pass) have also developed their own ticket packages.

Where to Stay in Vienna

Vienna has plenty of fun, social hostels. Here are my favorites ones to stay at:

• Wombats City Hostel
• The MEININGER Hotel
• JO&JOE
• Westend City Hostel

How to Get Around Vienna

Public transport – Public transport in Vienna is safe, fast, and efficient. There are four main forms of public transport: bus (Autobus), local train (S-Bahn), tram (Straßenbahn), and subway (U-Bahn). Public transportation in Vienna works on an honor system. This can be confusing at first as there are no formal ticket checks or barriers at stations making it appear that public transport is free. Public transport is not free. You need to buy a ticket at the machines within the stations. If you get caught by one of the undercover ticket inspectors they charge you a hefty fine.

A single ticket is 2.40 EUR (zone 1 only), a 24-hour pass is 8 EUR, a 48-hour pass is 14.10 EUR, and a 72-hour pass is 17.10 EUR. The weekly pass (valid from Monday to Monday) is also 17.10 EUR.

If you’re flying into Vienna, the direct airport train is only 16 minutes to downtown and costs 11 EUR (19 EUR return). If you’re not in a hurry, however, take the regular train instead. It is only 4.30 EUR.

Taxis – Taxis should be avoided if you’re on a budget as they can add up fast. Fares start at 4 EUR and go up by 1.70 EUR per kilometer. Uber is also available here and is cheaper than a taxi so use it instead.

Bicycle – If you want to explore the city by bike you can find rentals for under 10 EUR per day via ListnRide . It matches you with a local renting their bike for cheap.

Car Rental – You don’t need to rent a car to get around Vienna. Most areas are walkable and public transportation is efficient. However, if you want to rent a car to get out of the city, expect to pay at least 35 EUR per day. Make sure to have an International Driving Permit (IDP) — you need one for any car rental.

When to Go to Vienna

There’s no wrong time to visit Vienna. The summer months (June-August) offer the best weather. However, this is the peak season for tourists so things are busier. During July and August, many local residents leave the city for what they call Sommerpause (Summer break) meaning many small local businesses close. Expect daily highs around 25°C (77°F)

Winter is from December to March. It gets cold, with temperatures dropping as low as -15°C (5°F). That said, November and December are considered to be the most magical months in the city because of the Christmas markets. The city looks gorgeous covered in snow!

Personally, I think the best time to visit Vienna is the shoulder season (April-June and September-October). It’s still warm during this time but there aren’t as many other tourists and prices aren’t as high as in the summer.

How to Stay Safe in Vienna

Vienna is a very safe city. That said, pick-pocketing can still occur in large crowds or on crowded public transportation. The 1st District (where you can find many of the city’s historic landmarks) and the 4th District (Karlsplatz/Karlskirche) are the main areas to be vigilant.

Be on the lookout for fake event tickets being sold on the street. This can be easily avoided by only booking tickets directly from the venue.

Also be cautious of people posing as plain-clothes police officers asking to see your passport. This has become common in the main tourist areas and in public transport stations. When you produce your passport, they take it and accuse you of a minor crime and demand you pay a fine. If you refuse, they can get aggressive and while you are distracted an accomplice picks your pockets.

While these scams are rare, it’s better to be safe than sorry. You can read about more common travel scams here so you know what to look out for.

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe here. However, the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.). Look for specific tips on solo female blogs as they’ll have more tips from experience than I can provide.

If you experience an emergency, dial 112 for assistance.

When in doubt, always trust your instincts. If a taxi driver seems shady, get out. If your hotel or accommodation is seedier than you thought, go somewhere else. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID, in case of an emergency.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance protects you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Vienna Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• HostelPass – This new card gives you up to 20% off hostels throughout Europe. It’s a great way to save money. They’re constantly adding new hostels too. I’ve always wanted something like this and glad it finallt exists.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• The Man in Seat 61 – This website is the ultimate guide to train travel anywhere in the world. They have the most comprehensive information on routes, times, prices, and train conditions. If you are planning a long train journey or some epic train trip, consult this site.
• Rome2Rio – This website allows you to see how to get from point A to point B the best and cheapest way possible. It will give you all the bus, train, plane, or boat routes that can get you there as well as how much they cost.
• FlixBus – Flixbus has routes between 20 European countries with prices starting as low 5 EUR! Their buses include WiFi, electrical outlets, a free checked bag.
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

Vienna Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling Europe and continue planning your trip:

The 6 Best Hotels in Copenhagen

The 6 Best Hotels in Florence

The 7 Best Hotels in Madrid

The 6 Best Hotels in Vienna

The Best Walking Tours in Barcelona

How to Be a Digital Nomad in Europe

Get my best stuff sent straight to you, pin it on pinterest.

• Where To Stay
• Transportation
• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes
• Travel Destinations A-Z

This Gorgeous European City Is Known for Its Fairy-tale Palace, Wiener Schnitzel, and Christmas Markets

Best Time to Go

Things to know, how to get around, best hotels, best restaurants, things to do, best shopping, neighborhoods to know, apps to download.

Vienna (Wien in German), Austria's capital city, is rich in history, architecture, art, music, food, and wine. Located on the River Danube, Vienna dates back to a Roman era settlement. Most of the city's many Baroque buildings were created under Empress Maria Theresa (18th century) and Emperor Franz Joseph (19th century), and today they stand in contrast to modern glass and steel structures.

Beautiful buildings, walkable streets, delicious food, and lots to do both indoors and outdoors make Vienna a wonderful vacation destination. Voted one of the most livable cities in the world, Vienna's city limits include vineyards, parks, and the forested Vienna Woods (Wienerwald in German), a protected natural landscape. A dog-friendly city, Vienna permits dogs on public transportation as well as in restaurants and shops. The "coffee culture" features prominently in Viennese life, and coffee houses are places to relax, socialize, and enjoy the city's famous desserts.

Called the "City of Music," Vienna was home to classical composers Schubert, Mozart, Haydn, Strauss, Brahms, and Beethoven. Vienna is known for its Ball Season when, from November until the Tuesday before Ash Wednesday, nearly 500 balls take place—with the Viennese Waltz and elegant formal attire in full display.

Central European Time Zone (CET) UTC +1

Seasonally: Central European Summer Time (CEST) UTC +2

For mild, although sometimes chilly weather, spring and fall are pleasant times to be in Vienna. Fewer tourists make it easier to see the city's attractions, and hotel rates are lower. Summer is warm and sunny with temperatures in the high 70s and perhaps a bit more rain. It's also a lovely time there, but the city sees more visitors during the high season, reflected in hotel prices.

Christmas markets and magical decorations attract tourists in winter, despite colder temperatures. The ball season from November until February can be fun even if you're not ready to waltz onto the dance floor. Ball gowns, traditional Austrian dirndls, live music, and the festive atmosphere create memorable experiences.

So it seems that there's no wrong time to visit Vienna. Take a travel umbrella, warm clothing, and remember the well-worn adage, "There's no such thing as bad weather, only the wrong clothes."

Find flights

Currency: Euro

(Check the current exchange rate )

Language: German

Hello - Hallo Good Morning - Guten Morgen Good day - Guten Tag Good Evening - Guten Abend My name is… Ich heiße… What is your name? - Wie heißen Sie? How are you? - Wie geht's? I'm well - Mir geht's gut. How much is that? - Wie viel kostet das? Where is the bathroom? - Wo ist die Toilette? Men - Herren/Männer Women - Damen/Frauen Please - bitte Thank you - Danke

Calling Code: +43

The letter ß, unique to the German alphabet, is used in many words to replace "ss."

Snow globes, a favorite souvenir of Vienna, have been produced there for more than a hundred years by the Perzy family in their 17th district factory. They depict St. Stephen's Cathedral, landmarks, animals, cakes, and more. The snow globes, made in a variety of sizes, are favorites at Vienna's Christmas markets.

Vienna is the only world capital with wineries within its city limits. In the city's outskirts of Grinzing, visitors can hike, bike, or visit a Heuriger, a seasonal wine tavern. Most of the wineries produce white wines, mainly Grüner Veltliner, Weissburgunder, Rheinriesling , and Gemischter Satz .

Danube Island, built as part of a flood protection system, has become a major recreation center with a beach, waterpark, restaurants, and nightclubs. An annual open-air music event, Danube Island Festival ( Donauinselfest ) is held there.

Austria's national dish is Wiener Schnitzel , thin cutlets of veal, breaded and fried. It's usually served with parsley potatoes or potato salad. Veal is most commonly used, but chicken may also be prepared as schnitzel.

Sacher Torte , one of Vienna's most famous desserts, is a rich chocolate cake with a thin layer of apricot jam, covered with chocolate. It's said to have first been prepared by Franz Sacher, a 16-year old apprentice, for Prince Metternich in 1832 when the head chef was ill. National Sachertorte Day in Austria is December 5.

In addition to coffee and sweets, Vienna is known for hot dog stands where you can choose either sweet ( süss ) or spicy ( scharf ) mustard.

If you live outside the European Union and your single local Vienna shopping bill exceeds EUR 75.01, you can claim a refund of the Austrian value added tax. Ask the seller for a Global Blue Cheque and the Global Blue Envelope that includes a list of all refund offices. (Global Blue is an international payment provider for tax free shopping.) While you are buying, make sure the original invoice is stapled to the Global Blue Cheque.When you leave Austria (or the European Union), go to the customs officer at the eValidation service counter at Vienna International Airport and get your Global Blue Cheque stamped on presentation of your purchase. Then cash your refund at one of the more than 700 refund offices world wide, including at Vienna airport. Alternatively, send the Global Blue Cheque of your Vienna shopping to Global Blue and they will transfer the money to you.

Vienna's public transportation network is extensive. Buses, trains, trams, and underground lines operated by Wiener Linien make getting almost anywhere in the city quite convenient. Ticket machines are located at underground stations, tobacconists, online, and on board (with a slightly increased rate.) In addition to single tickets, passes are available for longer periods of time.

The subway is called U-Bahn; local trains are Schnellbahn or s-Bahn; the tram is the Straßenbahn, and Autobus is the bus.

Taxi stands can be found throughout Vienna.

Uber operates in Vienna for ridesharing.

From Vienna International Airport , there is bus, train, and taxi service into the city as well as Uber for ridesharing.

The Vienna City Card provides discounts on tours and attractions as well as free public transportation on most lines. CityBike Wien operates approximately 120 bike stations around Vienna, one of the most bike-friendly cities in Europe.

Grand Hotel Wien

Address: Kärntner Ring 9 1010 Vienna, Austria Phone: +43 1 51580-0 Website

This opulent hotel dating to 1870 offers luxurious furnishings, five restaurants, two bars, and the Grand Spa No.605. Their elegant rooftop terrace, open from March through October, features panoramic views along with cocktails, bar snacks, and traditional breakfasts. The hotel is centrally located near the Vienna State Opera and Kärntner Straße shopping.

Ritz-Carlton Vienna

Address: Schubertring 5-7 1010 Vienna, Austria Phone: +43 1 31188 Website

Located in downtown Vienna, the luxury hotel features 201 guest rooms including 43 suites. The historic building was once four palaces that have been connected, and modern amenities include fitness center, indoor pool, and spa. An excellent steakhouse, Italian restaurant, cocktail lounge, and seasonal Atmosphere Rooftop Bar provide a range of dining offerings.

K & K Palais Hotel

Address: Rudolfsplatz 11 1010 Vienna, Austria Phone: +43 1 53313 53 Website

This centrally located hotel is housed in the former residence of Emperor Franz Joseph. Modern air-conditioned rooms include flat-screen TV's, coffee machines, minibars, and elegant furnishings. Family-friendly amenities include playground, laundry facilities, snack bar, and available child care.

Hotel Imperial

Address: Kärntner Ring 16 1015 Vienna, Austria Phone: +43 1 501 100 Website

Built for the Duke of Wurttemberg in 1863, the palatial building offers 76 rooms and 62 suites, all elegantly furnished with authentic antiques. Conveniently located near Vienna State Opera and St. Stephen's Cathedral, the hotel is also ideal for designer shopping. Family-friendly options include babysitting service, connecting rooms, and children's menus.

Hotel Sacher Wien

Address: Philharmoniker Str. 4 1010 Vienna, Austria Phone: +43 1 514 560 Website

This classic Victorian-era hotel features 152 exquisitely furnished rooms and suites that combine tradition with modern amenities. Fine dining restaurants and cocktail lounges are available, and guests should not miss Café Sacher 's world famous Sacher-Torte. Child care is available, and the "Petit Sacher" program provides a welcome gift and special amenities for children.

Park Hyatt Vienna

Address: Am Hof 2 1010 Vienna, Austria Phone: +43 1 22740 1234 Website

Set in a 100 year old former bank, the elegant hotel features 143 spacious guest rooms including 42 suites, as well as a spa with a sauna and pool. The hotel's location in the Goldenes Quartier is convenient to shopping, museums, churches, and attractions. In keeping with the theme, The Bank Brasserie & Bar presents exceptional dining and relaxed ambiance.

Hotel Daniel Vienna

Address: Landstraßer Gürtel 5 1030 Vienna, Austria Phone: +43 1 90 131-0 Website

This centrally located hotel features 116 contemporary style rooms with modern amenities at a budget-friendly price. Their onsite bakery, restaurant, and breakfast buffet are popular with guests and locals. Pets are welcome, and bicycles are available to rent when weather permits.

Mraz & Sohn

Address: Wallensteinstraße 59 1200 Vienna, Austria Phone: +43 1 3304594 Website

This family-run fine dining restaurant has received two Michelin stars for its creative approach to Austrian and internationally-influenced cuisine. Multi-course tasting menus offer an experience that's both sophisticated and casual, with friendly, attentive service. Reservations recommended.

Address: Am Heumarkt 2A, Innere Stadtpark 1030 Vienna, Austria Phone: +43 1 71 33 168 Website

Located in Vienna's Stadtpark and set in a modern mirrored glass building, the restaurant features rural Austrian cuisine in creative presentations. Fresh seafood, produce from the terrace gardens, wild boar, and more are treated in novel ways. Choose the tasting menu or dine a la carte, and call ahead for a reservation.

Address: Burggarten 1 1010 Vienna, Austria Phone: +43 1 533 10 33 Website

Set in an 1822 greenhouse overlooking Hofburg palace gardens, the updated modern glass and steel structure is stunning, offering both indoor and outdoor dining. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are served, and the dinner menu includes seafood, steaks, and (of course) schnitzel. Reservations are suggested.

Address: Burggasse 2 1070 Vienna, Austria Phone: +43 1 5222520194 Website

The Michelin Guide describes the restaurant's cuisine as modern Austrian which can be ordered a la carte or as a tasting menu, with wines that focus on Austria's vineyards. Indoor and outdoor tables are available, and the menu includes traditional wiener schnitzels, veal, bisque, and desserts. Located near Vienna's museums; reservations are recommended.

Address: Praterstraße 1 1020 Vienna, Austria Phone: +43 1 906168110 Website

Located on the 18th floor of the modern hotel SO/Vienna, Das Loft offers panoramic views of the city through expansive windows, while a colorful illuminated ceiling created by multimedia artist Pipilotti Risi shimmers overhead. International fare is served starting with breakfast, and innovative dishes match the decor in creativity. Cocktails and a selection of wines from Austria and around the world are available.

Café Central

Address: Ecke Herrengasse, Strauchgasse 1010 Vienna, Austria Phone: +43 1 5333763 Website

Established in 1876 and set in Palais Ferstel , a palatial Italianate mansion, Café Central attracts tourists and locals who dine on Viennese dishes, coffee specialties, and bakery items in the historic setting. Through the years famous figures like Freud and Trotsky as well as poets and writers have dined there, so a stop at Café Central should be on every visitor's itinerary.

Address: Mariahilf, city center 1060 Vienna, Austria Phone: +43 1 400005430 Website

Vienna's largest and best known food market is located on the Vienna River, with more than 120 market stands selling produce, fish, cheese, international street foods, sweets, snacks, local products, and sit-down restaurant meals. The market dates to the late 16th century, and some stalls have been there for over 100 years. On Saturdays, a flea market next door offers books, record albums, antiques, and more. Closed on Sundays.

Schönbrunn Palace

Address: Schönbrunner Schloßstraß 47 1130 Vienna, Austria Phone: +43 1 81113239 Website

This magnificent 18th-century palace is one of Vienna's top attractions for its architecture, history, and Baroque gardens. Tours take visitors through the rooms once used by Emperor Franz Joseph and Empress Maria Theresa to see the furniture, art, and sumptuous décor.

St. Stephen's Cathedral

Address: Stephansplatz 3 1010 Vienna, Austria Phone: +43 1 515523054 Website

Also called Stephansdom , the cathedral was built as a 12th-century Romanesque church, and it has been reconstructed several times as recently as post World War II, combining its original design with Baroque and Gothic architecture. Visitors can tour the 14th-century catacombs in an underground labyrinth or climb one of the towers for a view of Vienna from the roof walk.

MuseumsQuartier

Address: Museumsplatz 1 1070 Vienna, Austria Phone: +43/1/523 5881 Website

Located in central Vienna, the complex includes 60 cultural institutions covering contemporary art, history, architecture, music, fashion, theater, dance, literature, photography, street art, and children's culture. Guided tours are available, and the exterior courtyard is designed for visitors and locals to enjoy with unique furniture, cafés, and restaurants.

The Spanish Riding School

Address: Michaelerplatz 1 1010 Vienna, Austria Phone: +43 1 533 90 31-0 Website

The riding school was established with the introduction of the famous Lipizzaner horses from Spain in the 16th century. Today, a variety of tours and performances demonstrate equestrian skills and take visitors behind the scenes for exercise and training sessions.

Vienna Zoo (Tiergarten Schönbrunn)

Address: Maxingstraße 13b 1130 Vienna, Austria Phone: +43 1 87792940 Website

The world's oldest zoo dating back to the mid-18th century, the Vienna Zoo was built in the Gardens of Schönbrunn Palace. Visitors can enjoy the exhibits on their own or choose from a variety of tours that include backstage tours, themed tours focusing on a favorite animal, and morning experiences in the rainforest or aquarium followed by breakfast.

Address: Riesenradplatz 7 1020 Vienna, Austria Phone: +43 1 7280516 Website

With a history that dates back to the 18th century, the 3,200-acre amusement park was rebuilt after World War II. The Prater is home to roller coasters, old-fashioned theme park rides, the Giant Ferris Wheel, Haunted Castle, the Prater Museum, Planetarium , 5-D cinema, and more.

Address: Kohlmarkt 14 1010 Vienna, Austria Phone: +43 1 535 1717 0 Website

Vienna's oldest café and bakery is an experience as well as a place to indulge in cakes, pastries, strudels, petit fours, and coffee. The experience is the opportunity to enjoy the same recipes loved by Emperor Franz Joseph served in traditional style by Demelinerinnen , waitresses in black dresses with white lace collars. You can also watch through a glass wall as bakers work, marvel at the window display, and take home a classic sacher torte to enjoy later.

Ringstrassen-Galerien (Ringstreet Galleries)

Address: Kârntner Ring 5-7 and 9-13 1010 Vienna, Austria Phone: +43 1 51 25 181 Website

Two buildings connected by a glass bridge creates a unique atmosphere for the 16-floor mall that includes offices, luxury apartments, and restaurants as well as retail shops. Stores offer clothing, accessories, jewelry, toys, art, gifts, flowers, and more in a gorgeous setting.

Donau Zentrum (Danube Center)

Address: Wagramer Strasse 94 1220 Vienna, Austria Phone: +43 1 20347 22222 Website

This huge mall includes more than 250 stores and a multiplex cinema as well as at least 50 restaurants. Conveniently linked to the city center via metro, Austria's second largest shopping center is popular among locals and tourists.

Address: Inner City 1010 Vienna, Austria

One of the oldest and most elegant streets in Vienna, Kohlmarkt is home to jewelers and international luxury fashion brands including Cartier, Chanel, Armani, Burberry, Gucci, and more. Browse the high end shops and enjoy the grand historical architecture of the area.

Hamtil & Sôhne

Address: Herrengasse 2 1010 Vienna, Austria Phone: +43 1 532 1803 Website

This store offers unique souvenirs, gifts, lamps, and locally-made products. An interesting selection of children's toys, games, and puzzles make clever gifts.

Steffl Department Store

Address: Kârntner Straße 19 1010 Vienna, Austria Phone: +43 1 930 56 0 Website

This upscale department store features a wide variety of clothing and accessory brands including Dolce & Gabbana, Furla, Chloe, Patagonia, in a convenient location. Rest a bit after shopping at the SKY Café and enjoy views of St. Stephan's cathedral and Vienna's skyline.

Tostmann Trachten

Address: Schottengasse 3a 1010 Vienna, Austria Phone: +43 1 533 533 1 Website

This is the best place to purchase locally made traditional Austrian clothing. In business for more than 60 years, Tostmann offers dirndls for ladies and lederhosen for gentlemen. Choose from a variety of styles for adults and children.

Augarten Wien

Address: Obere Augartenstraße 1 1020 Vienna, Austria Phone: +43 1 211 24 200 Website

Europe's second oldest porcelain manufacturer and purveyor to the Habsburg court, Augarten still produces timeless objects meticulously designed and painted. Dinnerware, vases, figurines, teapots, and collectible objects are available at the shop.

Innere Stadt (1st District) is the city center where most hotels, stores, restaurants, and attractions are located. St. Stephen's Cathedral, the Vienna Opera House, Parliament, and many museums are located in this district. The Ringstrasse, once the city's fortifications and now a fashionable boulevard, circles the district.

Leopoldstadt (2nd District) , once Vienna's Jewish quarter, is now a trendy area a short subway ride from the central city. Prater Park, Vienna's amusement park, is in this district as is the modern art museum and Augarten porcelain factory.

Landstrasse (3rd District) includes Stadtpark, Schwarzenberg Palace, Belvedere Palace, and several embassies and consulates. Stadtpark features lush lawns, playgrounds, and the excellent restaurant Steirereck im Stadtpark for Austrian cuisine.

Mariahilf (6th District) features the busy Mariahilferstrasse shopping street and the Naschmarkt produce and dining market as well as theaters and pubs. Vienna's aquarium is in this district, housed in a World War II air defense tower built by Hitler's engineers.

Neubau (7th District) includes the Spittelberg quarter, a lively cultural and upcoming trendy area. Bordering the MuseumsQuartier, this neighborhood's Christmas market is a popular winter destination. The large museum complex, formerly Imperial Stables, features bars, restaurants, shops, and an appealing outdoor area that attracts locals and tourists.

Hietzing (13th District) is home to Vienna's most popular tourist attraction, Schönbrunn Palace, and the Vienna Zoo. An elegant residential area with gorgeous 18th- and 19th-century summer residences, the district includes the Klimt Villa , with an exhibition of the artist's life and work.Döbling (19th District) borders the Vienna Woods and is home to exclusive residences as well as lush woodlands, wineries, and vine covered hills. Explore wineries or stop at a wine tavern. Hiking among hilly trails is popular here as well.

The climate of Vienna is continental with cold winters and moderately warm summers. Winter is cold and gray, with an average of 21 inches of snowfall each year. Snowfall is frequent, but generally not abundant.

January is the driest and coldest month, and July is the warmest and wettest. Hurricanes do not occur in Austria, and there is a chance of tornadoes during summer. Winter, December through February, is quite cold, and the weather starts warming in late March. Spring is mild and pleasant, and summer temperatures are warm, reaching into the 80s at times. Fall is mild, an ideal time to visit Vienna.

The following are average Fahrenheit lows and highs by month. Average annual precipitation is 23.9 inches, with somewhat more rain occurring between May and August.

January 27°F - 37°F February 29°F - 42°F March 34°F - 50°F April 42°F - 61°F May 50°F - 69°F June 56°F - 75°F July 60°F - 80°F August 59°F- 79°F September 52°F - 69°F October 44°F - 58°F November 36°F - 47°F December 29°F - 38°F

Zoo Adventures Guide - Schönbrunn Zoo guide, photos, videos, animal stories iOs | Android

WienMobil Guide - route planner, real time departure information, transportation services iOs | Android

Wien.at - official city homepage for local news, events, and weather iOs | Android

Quandoo - restaurant search, booking reservations. iOs

Bike Citizens - City Bike finder, navigation, directions to available nearby bikes iOs | Android

Uber - ride sharing iOs | Android

Related Articles

Vienna Travel Guide

Book your individual trip , stress-free with local travel experts

• roughguides.com
• Travel guide
• Local Experts
• Travel Advice

Accommodation

Plan your tailor-made trip with a local expert

Book securely with money-back guarantee

Travel stress-free with local assistance and 24/7 support

Most people visit VIENNA (Wien) with a vivid image in their minds: a romantic place, full of imperial nostalgia, opera houses and exquisite cakes. Even so, the city can overwhelm with its eclectic feast of architectural styles, from High Baroque through the monumental imperial projects of the late nineteenth century, to the decorative Jugendstil (Art Nouveau) style of the early twentieth, used to great effect on several of the city’s splendid U-Bahn stations.

The Belvedere

Drinking and nightlife, entertainment, the hofburg, kärntnerstrasse and graben, the kunsthistorisches museum, the museumsquartier, the ring and rathausplatz, the secession, stephansdom, vienna’s heurigen.

Vienna became an important centre in the tenth century, then in 1278 the city fell to Rudolf of Habsburg, but didn’t become the imperial residence until 1683. The great aristocratic families flooded in to build palaces in a frenzy of construction that gave Vienna its Baroque character. By the end of the Habsburg era the city had become a breeding ground for the ideological passions of the age, and the ghosts of Freud, Klimt and Schiele are now some of the city’s biggest tourist draws.

WHAT TO SEE AND DO

Central Vienna is surprisingly compact, with the historical centre, or Innere Stadt, just 1km wide. The most important sights are concentrated here and along the Ringstrasse – the series of traffic- and tram-clogged boulevards that form a ring road around the centre. Efficient public transport allows you to cross the city in less than thirty minutes, making even peripheral sights, such as the monumental imperial palace at Schönbrunn , easily accessible. However, for all the grand palaces and museums, a trip to Vienna would not be complete without spending a leisurely afternoon over a creamy coffee and a piece of cake in one of the grand, shabby-glamorous coffeehouses for which the city is famous.

Tailor-made travel itineraries for Austria, created by local experts

15 days  / from 6264 USD

Capitals of Europe - Berlin, Prague, Vienna and more

This trip is ideal for all city & culture lovers: the Reichstag in Berlin, the castle in Prague, historical Cesky Krumlov, St Stephen's Cathedral in Vienna, the fortress above Salzburg and Schloss Neuschwanstein near Munich - these are just some of the highlights of this incredible roundup trip.

11 days  / from 4212 USD

Castles across Austria and Czechia

Austria and Czechia are home to some of the world's most beautiful architecture and culture gems, such as Schloss Schönbrunn in Vienna, Prague castle, the fortress above Salzburg and many more. Finish your tour with a visit to Schloss Neuschwanstein before flying out of Munich.

11 days  / from 3510 USD

Exclusive trip to Prague and Austria

Explore the main highlights of Central Europe: fascinating Prague & historical Cesky Krumlov, the highlights of Vienna, Salzburg and Innsbruck in Austria and then further on to Germany - get in the Disney spirit at Schloss Neuschwanstein.

For cheaper accommodation booking ahead is essential in summer. Several hostels are near the Westbahnhof, which is an easy few stops into the centre.

South of the Ringstrasse, the Belvedere (daily 10am–6pm; Oberes €14, combined ticket €20; tram #D from the opera house) is one of Vienna’s finest palace complexes. Two magnificent Baroque mansions face each other across a sloping formal garden. The loftier of the two, the Oberes Belvedere, has the best concentration of paintings by Klimt in the city, including The Kiss, while the Unteres Belvedere and Orangerie show temporary exhibitions.

For a bar crawl or live music the string of clubs under the railway arches around U Thaliastr, Josefstädterstr. and Alser str. are a good bet, while in summer beach bars line the Donaukanal.

The local listings magazine Falter ( w www.falter.at ) has comprehensive details of the week’s cultural programme. The tourist office also publishes the free monthly Programm .

Hofburg palace on St. Michael square (Michaelerplatz), Vienna, Austria © Mistervlad/Shutterstock

A block southeast of Graben is the immense, highly ornate Hofburg palace , housing many of Vienna’s key imperial sights. Skip the rather dull Kaiserappartements in favour of the more impressive Schatzkammer (Mon & Wed–Sun 9am–5.30pm; €12), where you’ll see some of the finest medieval craftsmanship and jewellery in Europe, including relics of the Holy Roman Empire and the Habsburg crown jewels. The Hofburg is also home to two of Vienna’s most enduring tourist images: singing boys and prancing horses. Steps beside the Schatzkammer lead up to the Hofmusik Kapelle (Mon & Tues 10am–2pm, Fri 11am–1pm; free), where the Vienna Boys’ Choir sings Mass (mid-Sept to June Sun 9.15am; t 01 533 99 27): you can obtain free, standing tickets from 8.30am (otherwise €10–36; book in advance).

On the north side of the Hofburg, the imperial stables are home to the white horses of the Spanish Riding School , known for their extraordinary, intricate performances. There are three main ways to see them: book a performance well in advance (mid-Feb to mid-June & mid-Aug to Dec, usually Sat & Sun at 11am, occasionally Fri & eves; standing from €25, seats from €50); attend a morning exercise session (10am–noon: April–June, Sept & Oct Tues–Fri; Nov–March & Aug Tues–Sat; tickets for exercise session and tours from Michaelerplatz visitor centre Tues–Sun 9am–4pm; €15); or join a guided tour

of the school and stables (March to mid-June & Aug to mid-Dec daily, otherwise 5–6 days per week; tours 2pm, 3pm & 4pm; tour €18; combined tour and training session €31). Alternatively, if you just want to take a peek at the horses, look into the stables (Stallburg) from the glass windows on Reitschulgasse.

Finally, at the Hofburg’s southeastern tip, the Albertina (daily 10am–6pm, Wed till 9pm; €12.90) houses one of the world’s largest graphic art collections, with works by Raphael, Rembrandt, Dürer and Michelangelo.

Though one of Vienna’s prettiest little squares, Judenplatz , northwest of Stephansdom, is dominated by a deliberately bleak concrete Holocaust Memorial by British sculptor Rachel Whiteread. The square marks the site of the medieval Jewish ghetto and you can view the foundations of a fourteenth-century synagogue at the excellent Museum Judenplatz at no. 8 (Mon–Thurs & Sun 10am–6pm, Fri 10am-5pm; €10), which brings something of medieval Jewish Vienna to life. The ticket includes entrance to the intriguing Jüdisches Museum of Jewish tradition and culture, at Dorotheergasse 11 to the south of Stephansplatz (Mon–Fri & Sun 10am–6pm).

Stephansplatz, Vienna © Shutterstock

From Stephansplatz, pedestrianized Kärntnerstrasse runs south past street entertainers and shops to the illustrious Staatsoper , opened in 1869 in the first phase of the Ringstrasse’s development. A more unusual tribute to the city’s musical genius is the state-of-the-art Haus der Musik , Seilerstätte 30, (daily 10am–10pm; €13), a hugely enjoyable museum of sound.

Running west of Stephansplatz is the more upscale Graben, featuring an extremely ornate plague column ( Pestsäule ), built to commemorate the 1679 plague.

Of all Vienna’s museums, the Kunsthistorisches Museum on Burgring still outshines them all (June–Aug daily 10am–6pm, Thurs till 9pm; Sept–May Tues–Sun 10am–6pm, Thurs till 9pm; €15). It’s one of the world’s greatest collections of Old Masters – comparable with the Hermitage or Louvre. Highlight is an unrivalled collection of sixteenth-century paintings by Brueghel the Elder, while the Peter Paul Rubens collection is also very strong and works by Vermeer and Caravaggio are worth seeking out. A number of Greek and Roman antiquities add breadth and variety. Set aside several hours at least: there is also an excellent café.

On the Ring’s eastern section, beyond Stubenring, is the enjoyable MAK (Tues 10am–10pm, Wed–Sun 10am–6pm; €9.90, free Tues 6–10pm), an applied arts museum whose eclectic collection spans the Romanesque period to the twentieth century and includes an unrivalled Wiener Werkstätte collection.

Southwest of the Ring is Vienna’s MuseumsQuartier, a collection of museums and galleries in the old imperial stables, where the original buildings are enhanced by a couple of striking contemporary additions. Stylish outdoor seating, plenty of good cafés and an interesting calendar of events make the area a focus for Vienna’s cultural life. The best museum here is the Leopold Museum (Mon, Wed & Fri–Sun 10am–6pm, Thurs 10am–9pm; €13), with fine work by Klimt and the largest collection in the world of works by Egon Schiele.

The Ring, the large boulevard that encircles the Innere Stadt, along with its attendant monumental civic buildings, was created to replace the town’s fortifications, demolished in 1857, many of these buildings now house museums. On the western section is the showpiece Rathausplatz , a square framed by four monumental public buildings: the Rathaus (City Hall), the Burgtheater, Parliament and the Universität – all completed in the 1880s.

The biggest attraction in the city suburbs is the imperial summer palace of Schönbrunn (U4 to Schönbrunn), designed by Fischer von Erlach on the model of residences like Versailles. To visit the palace rooms or Prunkräume (daily: April–June, Sept & Oct 8.30am–5pm; July & Aug 8.30am–6pm; Nov–March 8.30am–4.30pm) there’s a choice of two tours: the “Imperial Tour” (€13.30), which takes in 22 state rooms, and the “Grand Tour” (€16.40 with audioguide, €19.40 with tour guide), which includes forty rooms. The shorter tour misses out the best rooms – such as the Millions Room, a rosewood-panelled chamber covered from floor to ceiling with wildly irregular Rococo cartouches, each holding a Persian miniature watercolour. The palace gets unbearably overcrowded at the height of summer, with lengthy queues, so buy tickets in advance online. The splendid Schlosspark (daily 6.30am–dusk; free) is dotted with attractions, including the Gloriette – a hilltop colonnaded monument, now a café and terrace with splendid views (terrace daily: mid-March to June, Sept & Oct 9am–6pm; July & Aug 9am–7pm; late Oct to early Nov 9am–4pm; €3.60), fountains, a maze and labyrinth (same hours as Gloriette; €5.20) and Vienna’s excellent Tiergarten or zoo (daily: Jan, Nov & Dec 9am–4.30pm; Feb 9am–5pm; March & Oct 9am–5.30pm; April–Sept 9am–6.30pm; €18.50).

Schönbrunn, Vienna © Shutterstock

The eccentric, eye-catching building crowned with a “golden cabbage” by Karlsplatz is the Secession building (Tues–Sun 10am–6pm; €9.50), built in 1898 as the headquarters of the Secessionist movement, whose aim was to break with the Viennese establishment and champion new ideas of art and aesthetics. Designed by Joseph Maria Olbrech, the gallery was decorated by several luminaries of the group, including their first president Gustav Klimt. It still puts on contemporary exhibits today, with Klimt’s Beethoven Frieze downstairs the only permanent artwork.

Mariahilferstr. is best for high-street clothes shops and the big chains, though Neubaugasse, nearby, is more eclectic.

The obvious place to begin exploration is Stephansplatz , the pedestrianized central square dominated by the hoary Gothic Stephansdom (Mon–Sat 6am–10pm, Sun 7am–10pm, except during services; free, but entry fees to most sections, combined ticket €17.90). It’s worth paying to explore the interior more fully, with the highlights of the main section (English tours Mon-Sat 10.30am; €5.50) the Wiener Neustädter Altar, a late Gothic masterpiece, and the tomb of the Holy Roman Emperor Friedrich III. The catacombs (tours every 15–30min, Mon–Sat 10–11.30am & 1.30–4.30pm, Sun 1.30–4.30pm; €5.50) contain the entrails of illustrious Habsburgs housed in bronze caskets. Stellar views reward those climbing the 137m-high (343 steps) south spire; (daily 9am–5.30pm; €4.50). Lower, but with a lift, is the north tower (same hours; €5.50). The warren of alleyways north and east of Stephansdom preserves something of the medieval character of the city, although the architecture reflects centuries of continuous rebuilding.

To sample Austrian wines on a scenic excursion, visit one of the wine-producing villages on Vienna’s outskirts. To the north of the Danube, Stammersdorf (tram #31 from Schottenring; 36min) is surrounded by vineyards and filled with traditional, family-run Heurigen (wine taverns).

Wienhof Wieninger 21 Stammersdorferstr A great place to start, with a pleasant garden, good-value meals (from around €8) and an excellent selection of whites available by the glass (from €1.55). Mid-March to April Fri 3pm–midnight, Sat & Sun noon–midnight, May to mid-Dec Thurs & Fri 3pm–midnight, Sat & Sun noon–midnight.

Discover more places in Austria

• Travel Guide Morocco
• Travel Guide Namibia
• Travel Guide South Africa
• Travel Guide China
• Travel Guide India
• Travel Guide Indonesia
• Travel Guide Japan
• Travel Guide Laos
• Travel Guide Malaysia
• Travel Guide Myanmar (Burma)
• Travel Guide Nepal
• Travel Guide Philippines
• Travel Guide Singapore
• Travel Guide South Korea
• Travel Guide Sri Lanka
• Travel Guide Taiwan
• Travel Guide Thailand
• Travel Guide Australia
• Travel Guide Fiji
• Travel Guide New Zealand
• Travel Guide Belize
• Costa Rica Travel Guide
• Travel Guide Cuba
• Travel Guide Guatemala
• Travel Guide Honduras
• Travel Guide Jamaica
• Travel Guide Nicaragua
• Travel Guide Panama
• Travel Guide Puerto Rico
• Travel Guide Trinidad and Tobago
• Travel Guide Albania
• Travel Guide Austria
• Travel Guide Belgium
• Travel Guide Bosnia-Herzegovina
• Travel Guide Bulgaria
• Travel Guide Cyprus
• Travel Guide Czechia (Czech Republic)
• Travel Guide Denmark
• Travel Guide England
• Travel Guide Estonia
• Travel Guide Finland
• Travel Guide France
• Travel Guide Germany
• Travel Guide Greece
• Travel Guide Hungary
• Iceland Travel Guide

The Rough Guides to Austria and related travel guides

In-depth, easy-to-use travel guides filled with expert advice.

Find even more inspiration here

Planning your own trip? Prepare for your trip

Use Rough Guides' trusted partners for great rates

written by Rough Guides Editors

updated 26.04.2021

Ready to travel and discover Austria?

Get support from our local experts for stress-free planning & worry-free travels.

• Where to stay
• Travel advice

18 top things to do in Vienna

Jul 1, 2021 • 8 min read

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

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

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

Kunsthistorisches Museum Vienna

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

Vienna’s coffee houses

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

MuseumsQuartier

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

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

Ringstrasse Tram Tour

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

Schloss Schönbrunn 

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

Hofburg Palace 

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

Donauturm tower

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

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

Riesenrad Giant Ferris Wheel 

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

Schloss Belvedere 

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

Stephansdom 

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

Copa Cagrana Beach

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

Vineyard hiking

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

VHS, vinyl and typewriters

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

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

Christmas markets 

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

Rudolfsheim-Fünfhaus: 15th district

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

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

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

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

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

Explore related stories

Architecture

Jun 16, 2022 • 7 min read

Panama City’s hippest neighborhood is also its smallest and most historic. Here's our guide to the best things to do in charming, timeless Casco Viejo.

May 15, 2022 • 12 min read

Mar 9, 2021 • 5 min read

Feb 17, 2020 • 6 min read

Dec 4, 2019 • 5 min read

May 10, 2024 • 9 min read

May 10, 2024 • 5 min read

May 9, 2024 • 9 min read

Awesome, you're subscribed!

Thanks for subscribing! Look out for your first newsletter in your inbox soon!

The best things in life are free.

Sign up for our email to enjoy your city without spending a thing (as well as some options when you’re feeling flush).

Déjà vu! We already have this email. Try another?

By entering your email address you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and consent to receive emails from Time Out about news, events, offers and partner promotions.

• Things to do
• Attractions
• Restaurants
• Los Angeles

Get us in your inbox

🙌 Awesome, you're subscribed!

Your ultimate guide to Vienna

Restaurants and bars, museums and galleries, clubs and music, shops and more from across vienna.

The essential guide to Vienna

The best of vienna.

The 18 best things to do in Vienna

Vienna is one of those cities which simply does it all. Known worldwide for its Kaffeehaus culture...

The 15 best restaurants in Vienna

The ever-romantic city of Vienna is home to a whole array of fantastic cultural attractions, from...

The 9 best bars in Vienna

Sure, Vienna’s mostly known for its coffee culture and its fabulous museums. But don’t be...

The 11 best hotels in Vienna

Vienna is world-famous for grand hotels, like the five-star Sacher, but if you prefer to keep...

The 13 best cafés in Vienna

Legend has it that in 1683, a Viennese local grabbed the final bag of coffee beans left over by the...

The 12 best Airbnbs in Vienna for high-style and affordability

Not called the 'City of Dreams' just for any old reason, Vienna is one of the most historically and...

The 10 best nightlife spots in Vienna

We know, we know. When you think of Vienna, you’re probably thinking more about its, erm, ...

The 13 best museums in Vienna

Compared to some of the big dogs in Europe (we’re looking at you, Paris, Rome and Berlin), Vienna...

The 14 best attractions in Vienna

What an incredible city Vienna is. Once referred to as the Capital of the World, Vienna is a...

The 10 best places to go shopping in Vienna

While the Austrian capital is full of incredible museums, marvellous attractions and genre-defining...

What to do in Yppenplatz and Brunnenmarkt, Vienna’s coolest neighbourhood

What’s the deal with Yppenplatz and Brunnenmarkt? Vienna’s 16th district, Ottakring, lies...

Essential Vienna: schnitzel, sachertorte and Sigmund Freud

What’s the deal with Vienna?With its Baroque buildings and tinkling trams, Vienna can feel a bit...

72 hours in Vienna

Klicken Sie hier, um diesen Artikel auf Deutsch zu lesen So you’ve made it to Vienna, the...

Other places you might like

Discover Time Out original video

• Press office
• Investor relations
• Work for Time Out
• Editorial guidelines
• Privacy notice
• Do not sell my information
• Cookie policy
• Accessibility statement
• Terms of use
• Modern slavery statement
• Manage cookies
• Advertising
• Time Out Market

Discover Vienna

Recommend article

Please complete all the mandatory fields marked with an * .

Recommendation successfully sent

Thank you for recommending our article.

The data and email addresses you provide will not be saved or used for other purposes.

• Email is a mandatory field.
• Please enter a valid email address.
• Email address valid
• Name is a mandatory field.

Subject: Recommendation from www.vienna.info

• Error: Please wait a moment, verification is still in progress.
• Error: Please try again. If the error continues to occur, it means we cannot identify you as a human being. You will not be able to send the form for security reasons.
• Share page Share on X Share on Facebook Share on LinkedIn recommend

Vienna Travel Guide

415 square kilometres, 23 districts, one city: Vienna is a treasure map for those who travel. From the artful architecture to the vast variety of sights to the Viennese „way of life“. A Vienna travel guide for explorers.

Vienna is always evolving – and yet remains true to itself. Every visit reveals something new and familiar, on both sides of the Danube.

A personalized way of exploring the city from district to district is a mixture containing many different highlights. The best place to start are the must-sees most Vienna travel guides would recommend to visit:

• The historic centre of Vienna with the St. Stephen's Cathedral
• The Ringstrasse and its imperial buildings
• The Schönbrunn Palace
• The giant Hofburg and all its museums
• The Vienna State Opera with daily performances
• The Belvedere Palace and the biggest Klimt collection in the world
• The Secession with the prominent "Krauthappel"-Dach
• The skyscraper at the Donaucity and the UNO-City next to it
• and many more

Once the famous buildings are checked off, many other destinations are waiting to unveil the secrets of the city.

Art & Culture in Vienna

Besides all the imposing architectural highlights from the Barock and Art Nouveau era, Vienna offers a wide choice of cultural pinnacles. Museums of nature, science, art, history or scurrilities on the one side and a very active music scene on the other will keep tourists busy for days and nights.

Tip: Book tickets for popular events online in advance.

Current exhibitions

Travelling with the family

If the trip to Vienna includes the whole family, many opportunities for every age of life await in the Austrian capital. How about a visit to the oldest amusement park in the world? The „Wiener Wurstelprater“ is one of many locations, that make children’s hearts leap for joy. Other destinations offer interactive museums, an action & fun paradise on the Danube Island, the world famous zoo and much, much more.

Tips for Families

Familien Survival Guide mit Tipps für sonnige und regnerische Tage in Wien.

Shopping in Vienna

Travelling to Vienna is a perfect occasion for some serious shopping. Luxury stores, souvenir shops, malls, antique stores, candy shops: the city has many spots for every kind of shopping fever. Some of them are the old city centre, the Mariahilfer-Straße („Mahü“), the Golden Quarter or the shops at the Kohlmarkt.

Vienna for Nature Lovers

More than half of the city’s surface is covered in meadows, woods or waters. No matter where you are, there is always an opportunity to leave the urban area behind and disappear into the Viennese wildlife to relax a little. Facilities like the Green Prater provide a great place to breathe easy in the middle of the stunning nature.

Explore the green side of Vienna

Extraordinary Vienna

Vienna wouldn’t be Vienna if it hadn‘t some exeptional aces up its sleeve. Insider tips include a visit to the Snail Farm, the Madhouse Tower , the Funeral Museum or a trip through the sewer. For all travelers who like to see the „other“ side of one of Europe’s most fascinating cities.

Rate this article

Feedback to the vienna.info editorial team, thank you very much for your feedback.

Thank you very much for your feedback on our item.

1 error has occurred. errors have occurred.

• Salutation is a mandatory field.
• Message is a mandatory field.

ivie - The official city guide app

Free of charge for iOS and Android

Discovering Vienna anew with your smartphone? ivie, the digital city guide for Vienna, is your perfect companion.

Filter results

Imperial architecture and Old World charm invite visitors to explore Vienna’s streets, where musicians with violins play Mozart to patrons of outdoor cafés. Take a carriage ride on cobblestone avenues, through towering palace gates, past lofty Gothic churches buttressed by diminutive baroque houses with their chic shops. Step out at the center of the Holy Roman Empire and into the regal winter residence of the Hapsburgs for over 600 years. Don’t miss the Imperial Treasury, home to the Spear of Destiny, the lance that reputedly pierced the side of Jesus as he hung on the cross.

• Copy Link copied

Photo By Sandro Gonzalez/Unsplash

Can’t miss things to do in Vienna

Unlike many cities, Vienna has a true city center, with a key landmark as its centerpiece: the towering gothic cathedral known as Stephansdom, which dates to 1339. The city center, known as the 1st District, is an imperial village featuring most of the city’s great attractions: the Hapsburg Palace, impressive art museums (including The Albertina, Fine Arts, and Leopold), and the Spanish Riding School—home to the prancing white Lipizzaner stallions. The city of music and culture demands a visit to the Opera House. And for a literal overview of the city, ride the famous Riesenrad Ferris Wheel or climb the many spiraling steps to the top of Stephansdom for a lookout on the garden-terraced rooftops gracing the city.

Food and drink to try in Vienna

Viennese gastronomy is satisfying, whether you’re looking for hearty fare or haute cuisine. Try the famous Wiener Schnitzel at Figlmuller (“home of the schnitzel”), or sample bratwurst at street stands. Other traditional and filling favorites include Hungarian goulash and roasted pork, washed down with local microbrewery beer. Trendy restaurants offer contemporary interpretations of classic Austrian cuisine. Dishes featuring wild game dominate the menu at Wild, and Wrenkh serves only fresh, locally grown ingredients. An amazing variety of whole grain breads dominate bakery shelves. Austrian wine culture is highly developed; buy a bottle at Wein & Co. For dessert, have a slice of Sachertorte at one of Vienna’s many historic cafés.

Culture in Vienna

Vienna gave birth to some of the world’s most beloved musicians and artists, Mozart and Klimt among them, but the city isn’t resting on its cultural laurels. Art exhibits and cultural performances continue to break boundaries; take, for example, the 2013 Leopold Museum exhibit, Nude Men , where even the onlookers themselves were without clothing. Street musicians have been known to bring concert pianos to the street to play to passersby. Vienna is a virtual open-air museum, where the stunning architecture is nonetheless dwarfed by the spectacular art within. Of course, if your tastes tend toward the classical, a performance at State Opera is not to be missed.

Vienna’s enthusiasm for the Art Nouveau movement of art, design, and architecture is still evident throughout the city. Context, AFAR’s travel partner, offers a walking tour led by an art historian or architectect, Vienna 1900: The Golden Age of Art Nouveau , that explores the lavish style and the imprint it left in the city’s museums and on its streets.

The most elegant of designer shops—Chanel, Gucci, and Hermes—are located on the pedestrian streets of Kartnerstrasse, Graben, and Kohlmarkt in the 1st District. Interspersed among them are famous cafés such as Hawelka and Demel, as well as restaurants and parks like the Rose Garden and Stadtpark, where you can rest and consider your purchases. Wander up to the Mariahilferstrasse for less expensive shops; here, you’ll find clothing, music, housewares, and more. If you’re visiting on Saturday, Naschmarkt, which dates to the 16th century, is famous for its flea market and antiques. The food section of Naschmarkt is open throughout the week, with many little stalls to choose from. Note that nearly all shops are closed on Sunday.

Practical Information

- Vienna is lovely any time of year. Spring, summer, and fall each have their own particular charms; winter, while quite cold, still attracts plenty of visitors, thanks to the city’s Christmas market and New Year’s Eve celebration. - The official language of Austria is German, though nearly half the population speaks English well. - The currency is the euro. - Vienna International Airport receives flights from abroad and is just 11 miles from the city itself. - You’ll likely need an adapter for your electronics, as Austria is 230 volts with F socket plugs.

Guide Editor

Paul Gillingwater

Explore Vienna

Plan your trip to vienna: best of vienna tourism.

Travel Advice

Embrace Europe’s great outdoors

Essential vienna.

Where to stay

Where to eat

How to spend 3 days in Vienna

Vienna’s coffeehouse culture

Browse collections

More places to live like European royalty

Vienna Travel Guide

Travelers' pro tips or experiencing vienna.

The city center is very small, and everything is within walking distance. But other attractions such as Schönbrunn Palace may require an underground ride.

Vienna Unwrapped

Get the 72-hour Vienna Card, which includes public transport and 210 discounts on selected museums, attractions, restaurants, and shops.

Travel light. Vienna is comfortably warm for outdoor cafes, evening meals outside, from late March to late September.

Vienna has been voted the second most liveable city in the world, for obvious reasons. The city is clean, safe, and public transportation is easy. The locals are friendly, and the food is a mesh of the surrounding cuisines. A week is a great start to taste what this amazing gem of a city has to offer.

Vienna is a city drenched in history, full of galleries, museums and good places to eat.

Besides being one of Europe’s cultural hubs, Vienna is considered one of the greenest cities of the region, featuring more than 200,000 trees, the Danube River, a handful of parks as well as running and biking trails spread across the city. Visit in spring or summer and make the most out of Vienna's great outdoor offerings.

What is the best way to get there?

Vienna International Airport (VIE) is a major hub with 77 airlines flying to more than 200 destinations in 68 countries.

For info,  see here .

Wien Hauptbahnhof is Vienna’s main train station, with regional and international connections, while Wien Westbahnhof station connects Vienna and Salzburg.

For more info, visit  here .

Flixbus and Eurolines offer bus service to Vienna from dozens of European cities.

For rates, fares and schedules, visit  here .

Do I need a visa?

Since Austria is one of the 26 Schengen Area countries, tourists from those countries do not need a visa for visits less than 90 days, but passports must be valid for at least six months after departure dates. The same goes for Americans. For more info,  see here .

When is the best time to visit?

Winter: Winter is a magical time to visit Vienna, with its UNESCO-listed palaces lit up with festive illuminations, atmospheric Christmas markets and the New Year’s Eve Imperial Ball marking the start of the ball season. You can expect average daily temperatures in Vienna this time of year to be highs of 39 Fahrenheit (4 Celsius) and lows around 32 Fahrenheit (0 Celsius).

public transportation card

Be sure to nab a Vienna City Card, which includes free public transportation and discounts on lots of attractions.

The U-Bahn subway has five lines serving 109 stations across the city.

Another great way to get around Vienna is by taking one of its 29 tram lines.

For schedules, routes, and fares, visit  here .

There are 127 bus lines in the city’s network.

For schedules, routes and fares, visit  here .

Citybike Wien is the city’s public bike-share with 1,500 bikes available at 121 docking stations.

For rates and locations, visit  here .

ridesharing

Uber is available in Vienna via its app on your smartphone.

Taxis are widely available in Vienna and fairly inexpensive. You can find them at taxi stands across the city and at train stations.

For a map of taxi stands in Vienna, visit  here .

On the ground

What is the timezone.

Central European Summer Time

What are the voltage/plug types?

230 V and 50 Hz with F type sockets.

What is the currency?

Are atms readily accessible, are credit cards widely accepted.

Yes, but paying in euros is more common.

Is it easy to find a bank?

How much do i tip.

Tipping 10% of your restaurant bill in Vienna is common, more, of course, if you’re extremely happy with the meal and service.

At least 10% of your fare.

Give a euro or two per bag to bellhops helping with your luggage, and a euro or two per day of your stay to the housekeeping staff as you would in any other city.

Tour guides

At least 10% of the tour cost is a common tip for Vienna tour guides, more if they were extra fun or interesting.

Are there local customs I should know?

The legal drinking age in Vienna is 18.

Only medical marijuana is legal in Austria for qualified residents.

“Grüss Gott” is a common greeting in Vienna, and if it’s said to you, say it or a simple “Hello” back. Shaking hands is also very common.

“Prost” rhymes with what it is, a toast before drinking, and it’s rude to drink before saying it, especially with locals.

• Boutique Hotel am Stephansplatz
• Austria Classic Hotel Wien
• Hotel Sacher Wien
• Hotel Kaiserhof Wien
• Hotel Imperial, A Luxury Collection Hotel, Vienna
• Wiener Wiaz Haus
• ef16 Restaurant
• Sixta Restaurant Bar
• Wolfgang Puck Kitchen + Bar
• Schönbrunn Palace
• Historic Center of Vienna
• Kunsthistorisches Museum Vienna
• Belvedere Museum
• The Hofburg
• Vienna Classical Concert at St. Peter’s Church
• Hallstatt Day Trip from Vienna With Skywalk
• Vienna: Skip the Line Schönbrunn Palace and Gardens Guided Tour
• Hallstatt Small-Group Day Trip from Vienna
• Highlights of Vienna City Center Walking Tour

• Meet the Team
• Work with Us
• Czech Republic
• Netherlands
• Switzerland
• Scandinavia
• Philippines
• South Korea
• New Zealand
• South Africa
• Budget Travel
• Work & Travel
• The Broke Backpacker Manifesto
• Travel Resources
• How to Travel on $10/day

Home » Europe » Austria » Vienna

EPIC 3-DAY VIENNA ITINERARY (2024)

Vienna is not only Austria’s capital, but it is also a hub for artistic and intellectual genius! This vastly beautiful and sophisticated city was once the home of Mozart, Beethoven, and Sigmund Freud. Even Einstein was known to enjoy the splendor of Vienna!

It’s easy to see how people worldwide flock to enjoy the exquisite glory that Vienna provides, as well as explore the many historical and fascinating sites it boasts.

Our complete three day Vienna itinerary will take you on an unforgettable journey, leading the way and making sure that your trip is overflowing with non-stop beauty. Let the stress of planning ease, and keep this guide with you to ensure you have yourself an amazing three days in Vienna!

This ancient city lies on the banks of the Danube River and is known for being the birthplace of free-thinking and artistic advancement! Vienna’s cafes are set within an inspiring ambiance, and it is said that you will feel as if you have consumed both time and space, yet only coffee will be found on your bill!

A Little Bit About this 3-Day Vienna Itinerary

Where to stay in vienna, vienna itinerary day 1: innere stadt and neubau, vienna itinerary day 2: schönbrunn, weiden, and mariahilf, vienna itinerary day 3: leopoldstadt and landstrabe, what to do with more than three days in vienna, best time to visit vienna, how to get around vienna, what to prepare before visiting vienna, faq on vienna itinerary, final thoughts.

You can see Vienna’s gorgeous sites walking along the streets, and exploring this picturesque city on foot is a must!  Take in the upbeat rhythm of Vienna’s streets as you enjoy many statues and imperial architecture. There are cafes everywhere, as well as art galleries and plenty of museums. Walking is one of the best ways to get around Vienna as a lot of the attractions can be found close to each other.

However, Vienna is huge and there can be times when you will need a faster and less strenuous way to get around! The train stations and underground subways are wonderful ways to get from A to B in Vienna, and they can be found in most of the big cities.

The Broke Backpacker is supported by you . Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more .

You can also book tickets with U-Bahn metro systems. You can see the places for these buses quite easily as they are marked with a blue cube that has a white ‘U’ on it. You can save money with these by booking a day pass online or getting Vienna’s local travel card. There are also buses and taxis found within Vienna, and this makes for a quick way to travel.

If you are wanting to travel in your own time, you can also hire a car or bike in Vienna. This is a great option when travelling, and it gives you a lot more freedom. If you don’t trust your GSP, you can hire a private driver to take you from place to place and show you some of the best streets!

If need be, the airport also offers reasonable ticket prices for a flight from one part of Vienna to the next.

Unlock Our GREATEST Travel Secrets!

Sign up for our newsletter and get the best travel tips delivered right to your inbox.

3-Day Vienna Itinerary Overview

Day 1 in Vienna: Kunsthistorisches Museum Wien , Austrian National Library , St. Peter’s Catholic Church , St. Stephen’s Cathedral , Vienna Opera House

Day 2 in Vienna: Schönbrunn Palace , Naschmarkt , Secession , Karlskirche , Albertina , Mariahilf

Day 3 in Vienna: Volksgarten , Rathaus , Prater , Museum of Applied Arts , Hundertwasser Apartment House and Museum , Danube Canal

More Places to See in Vienna: Central Cemetery , Wien Museum Mozart Apartment , Belvedere Palace , MuseumsQuartier

With a Vienna City Pass , you can experience the best of Vienna at the CHEAPEST prices. Discounts, attractions, tickets, and even public transport are all standards in any good city pass – be sure invest now and save them $$$ when you arrive!

A huge part of planning a trip to Vienna is knowing which neighborhood you want to stay in! Ask yourself what kind of place you are looking for – peaceful or bustling? Do you want to be close to Vienna points of interest or do you enjoy long journeys? Would you like to experience the luxurious side of Vienna, or are you more interested in the quirky parts? All of this comes into play, but we will share some of the best options of where to stay in Vienna!

If it’s your first time in Vienna, then the area of Innere Stadt is the best place for you to stay. This neighborhood is central and is also where most of Vienna’s beautiful historical sites can be found. You can see all of the best architecture and do some magical sightseeing without having to travel far. One of the best parts about this neighborhood is that it is surrounded by the Ringstrasse wall, which once used to be the city’s official wall.

Neubau is by far the coolest place to stay in Vienna! This is where Vienna showcases its trendy art galleries, cafes with unique character, and plenty of designer clothing shops. The restaurants in this area are also well worth checking out and provide tasty cuisine set in unusually decorated buildings.

If you want to learn more, be sure to read our awesome guide on the COOLEST areas in Vienna !

Best Hostel in Vienna – Hostel Ruthensteiner Vienna

This remarkable hostel provides spotless accommodation that is also conveniently close to the Wein Westbahnhoff station. The hostel members pride themselves on the cozy and friendly vibe that exudes from their establishment. There is also an amazing garden and music area for you to put your feet up and relax after a long day of adventuring!

Best Airbnb in Vienna – Unbeatable Home in Prime Location

Discover Vienna on foot while staying smack dack in the city center in this modern but cozy apartment. And if you do plan to venture out, this home is footsteps from the bus station.

Do you like meeting new people on your travels? If that’s you, this is the spot to be; the private room is in a huge home where you share the space with a few people that will quickly feel like family you may end up going o future adventures with during your time here.

Not to mention, even with a house full of people, the place continues to stay immaculate. With a full kitchen to use whenever you please as well as a cozy living area that has an organized space to play board games or cards, you may not even leave home!

Best Budget Hotel in Vienna – Pension Wild

This budget-friendly hotel also happens to be a historical building in Vienna dating back to 1904! It has been renovated and provides elegant accommodation for those in Josefstadt. The hotel is close to two subways, both the Rathaus and Volkstheater Underground Stations. The rooms are comfortable and the staff is always smiling. This may be the best place to stay in Vienna during your visit!

Best Luxury Hotel in Vienna – House of Time

Enjoy 5-star treatment with an incredibly charming, artistic touch at The House of Time. These fancy suites are exquisite, each with their own theme. The hotel offers not only luxury accommodation, but  style and an unforgettable hotel ambiance like no other. You can even book a room that has its own private room service, onsite bar, mini bar, and so much more are offered at the House of Time.

We’re going to spend our first day in Vienna admiring some of the finest landmarks in the city.

9:00 AM – Kunsthistorisches Museum Wien

One of the best things about Vienna is its unique and rich artistic history; we’re going to start the largest art museum in the country on our first day in Vienna! The Kunsthistorisches Museum Wien is a magnificent building that hosts many priceless artworks, but its very structure is also a masterpiece.

It showcases excellent architecture with an artistic ambiance! Stroll the gardens and admire the external features of the building, then make sure to tour its interior. One of the most unforgettable parts of this museum is the signature octagonal dome.

Enjoy remarkable exhibitions, displays, and breathtaking artwork from the Viennese masters.

By the time you finish with the museum, you’re probably going to need a jolt of energy. Sit down for a relaxed meal and a cup of fresh coffee or a hot cup of tea at the museum’s cafe before leaving.

• Cost:  €16.
• How long should I stay here?  2-3 hours.
• Getting there:  There are two U-Bahn stops nearby: Volkstheater (Line 3) and the Museumsquartier (Line 2).

12:00 PM – Austrian National Library

The Austrian National Library is the largest library in the country so expect a library that oozes with grandeur of a whole new kind! There are over twelve million items in its enormous collection. The library building itself has been standing since the fifteenth century and carries a beautiful history of its own (that you can read up about when you are there). It was originally built as a part of the glorious Hofberg Palace and Sisi Museum.

The Austrian Library is also made up of three wonderful museums, the Papyrus Museum, the Globe Museum, and the Esperanto Museum. The oldest book in the entire library is a medieval clerical scripture called  ‘Evangeliar of Johannes of Troppau’, from 1368. It’s worth looking at because it is full of coloured drawings and beautiful calligraphy!

The impressive baroque State Hall is an immeasurable beauty! Marvel and stand in the middle of the cathedral-like oval dome, which is suspended by marble columns that are entirely covered in magnificent frescoes. There are also galleries of carved wood where you will find over 200,000 books that have been meticulously bound with precious leather.

There are wooden stairs on wheels to cross over the two stories of books! You will also see historic personalities that have been sculpted from pine marble and plenty of earth globes that are over 400-years-old.

When you’re ready to move on and/or you’re feeling a bit hungry, head over to Café Hawelka for some lunch!

• Cost:  €8. Free for those nineteen and younger.
• How long should I stay here?  1-2 hours.
• Getting there:  It’s a 10-minute walk to the Library from the Kunsthistorisches through the Burggarten.

3:00 PM – St. Peter’s Catholic Church

Also known as the Peterskirche, this Roman Catholic Church is one of the major Vienna landmarks and a highlight for any Vienna itinerary! Even from its exterior, it boasts a magnificent amount of classic domes, reliefs, and exquisite statues. Once you open those doors and step inside, you will have your breath taken away by this church’s uniquely colorful interior and form.

St. Peter’s Church was originally built in the 18th century, and it embodies all the architectural design qualities of that time. You can catch free concerts and recitals, so there is always a chance to enjoy an extra bit of fun when you visit!

This church is a captivating Baroque structure and has so much to offer everyone who visits! From gorgeous domes and artwork to well-designed interior details, there is a lot of magnificence fitted into a small space.

Begin your trip in Vienna with a place that captures the soul of this wonderful city!

Insider Tip:  You won’t need to go inside the church to marvel at its beauty, and most of its best features are seen from outside. Be sure to ride the elevator to experience one of the best views in Vienna!

• Cost:  €8-10 depending on if you want to go up to the dome by elevator or by foot.
• How long should I stay here?  An hour or less.
• Getting there:  If you dropped by Café Hawelka for a bite, St. Peter’s is less than 5 minutes away by foot via Graben Street.

4:00 PM – St. Stephen’s Cathedral

• Food Recommendation: Enjoy a luxurious meal at Cantinetta Antinori Gastronomie GmbH and be sure to try one of the many delectable wines made on the family estate!

Vienna has a host of fascinating and significant buildings, and St Stephen’s Cathedral is one of the most revered! It is the main mother church of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese and is where the seat of the Archbishop is, therefore, it is the most important Roman Catholic church in the whole of Austria!

The exterior of the church is made of impressive limestone walls and boasts a variety of intricately detailed statues of both Romanesque and Gothic architectural styles. The most eye-catching and enchanting part of St. Stephen’s Cathedral is the decorated and colorful mosaic roof that has been made of 230,000 tiles and its intimidating Imperial Double-Headed Eagle that pops out in the black tiles!

The church’s tallest tower is known affectionately as ‘Steffl’, and it stands at a staggering 136 metres (446 feet) high. It is now renowned as an icon of the city’s skyline! The interior of the church is even more breathtaking, and your eyes might very well pop out in sheer amazement as you take in the luxurious and detailed design and artwork!

NOTE: We’re going to end our first day in Vienna at the Opera and shows usually start at 7:00 pm. We can either a) have a small snack before the show and then another at intermission or b) have a proper dinner before. If we choose plan b then we’ll need to leave St. Stephens by 5:00 at the latest. There are plenty of (expensive) restaurants around Innerstadt to choose from – just make sure you make reservations ahead of time.

• Cost:  Free! But it is €5.50 to enter the towers.
• How long should I stay here?  Depends on how much you want to eat before the next destination. If you just want to eat a bit, you can spend more time at the church.
• Getting there:  St. Stephen’s is practically across the square from St. Peter’s.

7:00 PM – Vienna Opera House

The Vienna State Opera House is one of the most famous and revered opera houses in the entire world, and it hosts a large variety of performances that are rich with culture and tradition. It is a true legacy of Vienna’s artistic accomplishments.

Each season, the schedule will feature 350 shows of more than 60 different operas and ballets! Every night there is a world-class artist among a permanent ensemble of Vienna Opera House members, accompanied by an orchestra. The orchestra is also impressively made up of the same artists from the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra.

Enjoy world-class performances for a dazzling night out in Vienna! You can also enjoy events at the Vienna Opera House, such as special banquets and balls.

• Cost:  Tickets can be anywhere from €2-315 depending on where you sit and what show is being performed.
• How long should I stay here?  A typical opera is usually around 2.5-3 hours long.
• Getting there:  The Vienna Opera is less than 10 minutes walk from St. Stephen’s.

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

When you travel to Vienna, there are some places that you can’t miss! Enjoy your second day in Vienna with these amazing sights and beautiful places.

9:00 AM – Schönbrunn Palace

  The jaw-droppingly exquisite and extravagant Schönbrunn Palace is a treasure trove of Viennese history and a place of opulent luxury! The palace, once the home of the famous Habsburg rulers, has 1,441-rooms and an unending amount of excellent features and displays throughout both the gardens and indoors. This palace was

The palace itself boasts a Baroque architectural design and is sure to make you feel like royalty as you stroll through the many halls and enjoy the mesmerizing gardens! Feast your eyes and take in one of Vienna’s most significant cultural, historical, and architectural landmarks.

Insider Tip:  You can sometimes end up waiting in lines for hours and hours, so be sure to book your ticket online before arriving, so that you can skip the queue and have a guided tour!

• Cost:  €16-52 depending on which pass you want.
• How long should I stay here?  1.5 hours inside and 1.5 hours in the park.
• Getting there:  Schönbrunn and Hietzing are the two nearest metro stops; both are served by Line 4.

12:00 PM – Lunch at Naschmarkt

Can you imagine a market that could be described as luxurious? Vienna is probably the only place in the world where there is a luxurious authentic market. There is an endless variety and range of products. Whilst strolling, you will never cease to find something new to see, taste, and simply enjoy!

Opened in the 16th century, the market has a history and used to serve as a marketplace for the Austrian empire to sell goods to farmers from overseas and outside of the city. In today’s time, the Naschmarkt provides a vast array of services! It is a priceless place to enjoy Viennese cuisine and experience the language and culture of the local people.

Each stall is set up with the intention of catching your eye, so expect grand appearances, bright colors, and impressive displays. Fresh fruits are arranged to dazzle, food is cooked with flavorsome spices, and many ingredients are laid out. There is no better place to indulge in Viennese food! Be sure to add this onto your three day itinerary in Vienna!

The city’s melting pot of culture is showcased here in a truly fantastic way, and people-watching is one of the things you will find yourself doing. There are families that have been in Austria for centuries who make cheese and baked goods, as well as ethnic vendors who have come from all over the world to live and trade in Vienna.

The Naschmarkt is open every day of the week, except for Sundays. If you’re visiting Vienna in December, be sure to come for the Christmas markets as well!

• Cost:  Varies. Meals usually cost around €15.
• How long should I stay here?  2 hours give or take.
• Getting there:  Take Line 4 from Schönbrunn Palace and get off at the Kettenbrückengasse stop.

2:00 PM – Secession

The Secession is a fascinating exhibition and structure of huge significance. Built in 1897, it marks the beginning of modern art in Vienna and pays homage to the powerful movement. When it was first introduced, it was highly controversial and clashed with the extremely traditional and conservative idea of art in that era.

Secession is a monument that honors the first designers and artists who were devoted to their forward-thinking and internationalist view of art! This is one of the very best and most interesting places to visit in Vienna !

• Cost:  €9.50
• How long should I stay here?  Less than an hour.
• Getting there:  The monument is around 5 minutes walk from the Naschmarkt via Wienzeile Street

3:00 PM – Karlskirche

Also known as St. Charles Church, Karlskirche is a fascinating, religiously significant marvel in Vienna! One of the main features of this magnificent church is its massive cupola, which was the last piece of work done by an eminent Viennese architect, Johann Bernhard Fischer von Erlach.

Karlskirche was built in the seventeenth century, and it was constructed because of a vow taken by Emperor Charles VI during a plague epidemic in Vienna. The church pays homage to the patron saint, Saint Charles Borromeo, and you can even find exhibits in the church that display his now very old traveling clothes!

The High Altar has been renovated but maintains its original design and captivating appearance. This is one of the best places to visit in Vienna on your second day!

Insider Tip:  If you are a lover of classical music and gospel, be sure to check out the church concerts performed on a regular basis.

• How long should I stay here?  An hour; maybe longer if you go inside.
• Getting there:  Cross the main street and Resselpark; the church is less than 10 minutes walk from the Succession.

4:00 PM – Albertina

If you love all things art and drawing, then you MUST visit the Albertina during your three days in Vienna! This museum is home to over 65,000 drawings and approximately one million old master prints. In fact, it has one of the largest and most important print rooms in the whole world!

The museum is special to Vienna, but it is also a monument that holds heralds of history from days long past and can give insight into the world’s artistic past.

You can also enjoy a host of majestic graphical words from the modern era, as well as impressive photographs and architectural designs.

• How long should I stay here?  Until closing (1-2 hours).
• Getting there:  The museum is located back in Inner Stadt and it’s about a 15-minute walk from Karlskirche.

7:00 PM – Mariahilf Neighborhood

After a long day of exploring Vienna, it’s time to sit down and have a nice meal and tall stein of beer. The best area to unwind in the city is definitely the district of Mariahilf.

Mariahilf is currently one of the trendiest neighborhoods in Vienna is very popular with younger crowds. Some of the coolest Viennese cafes and bars are located around this quarter so it makes for an excellent place to blow off some steam and get stuck in a long conversation. There are a lot of students around so the conversations may veer towards the academic what’s currently ailing society.

Cafe Kafka is one of the most notorious coffee house in the area and worth dropping by for a quick drink. Fair warning though: it can be noxious inside as smoking is allowed indoors here.

Secret Garden is a very charming vegetarian restaurant tucked away in an even more charming back alley of Mariahilf.

Finally, Stehbeisl is one of the best bars in Vienna thanks to the ambiance – imagine fancy dive with cheap beers and pictures of American rockers.

• Cost:  €3-4. €10-15 for an affordable dinner.
• How long should I stay here?  As long as you want!
• Getting there:  You’ll need to backtrack past Kunsthistorisches and beyond the MuseumsQuartier. A bit of a walk from the Albertina but still less than 20 minutes away.

Are you wanting to know which places to visit in Vienna? Well, our itinerary covers a variety of places to go and things to do during your visit. If you plan on spending a weekend in Vienna , three days, or even a week, these activities will guarantee that you have an amazing time!

9:00 AM – Volksgarten

The Volksgarten is an extremely scenic public park that is apart of the Hofberg Palace, and it is well worth seeing! The park itself was built over the historical site of the city fortifications that got destroyed by Napoleon in 1809.

The park boasts historical value, pristine gardens, soothing fountains, and a gorgeous place to stroll about and enjoy one of Vienna’s most sculpted flower and bush formations. Start your morning easy and get the cobwebs out of your eyes before we start day 2 of our Viennese itinerary.

After you finish your walk in the park, be sure to drop by Café Landtmann in front of the Rathaus. It is one of the most famous coffee houses in Vienna and was one of Sigmund Freud’s favorite places to frequent.

• Cost:  Free.
• Getting there:  Take Line 2 and get off at Volkstheater.

10:00 AM – Rathaus

The Rathaus is Vienna’s City Hall. It is also the most expensive monument that has been built in Vienna during the 19th century!  It was originally constructed between 1872 to 1883 and has an incredible neo-gothic design.

There is a lovely 100-meter tall tower that resembles a cathedral bell tower, and it sticks out like an oddly beautiful sore thumb! The tower is topped by a significant statue of a regal armored knight holding a lance. In fact, you will find statues of Viennese nobels all over the Rathaus grounds.

One of the must-see sights is found on the eastern side of the building, and it is a wonderful loggia that leads you into the interior of Rathaus. From here, you can walk up a sleek staircase to view the extravagant banquet hall.

• Cost:  Guided tours can be bought on-site to see the halls but there’s not much time today.
• How long should I stay here?  An hour.
• Getting there:  The Rathaus is across the street (Universitätsring) from the Wolksgarten.

12:00 PM – Prater

Officially known as Wurstelprater , Prater is one of the most fun and exciting amusement parks in Vienna! Not only will you find a host of incredible sites, rides, and uncanny food stalls, but you can also enjoy an iconic ride on Vienna’s most popular and world-renowned symbol – the Wiener Riesenrad Giant Ferris Wheel. Movie buffs will also interested to hear that this Ferris wheel is where one of the most famous scenes from The Third Man – an iconic movie starring Orson Welles and made in Vienna – was filmed.

For those who are not interested in the theme park, there’s still plenty of green space to wander around. We suggest grabbing a  wurstel  (sausage) or something else to go from one of the stands back at Wurstelprater and then having a little picnic on a hill somewhere.

• How long should I stay here?  3-4 hours.
• Getting there:  Take the U-Bahn (Line 2) from the Schottentor stop near the Rathaus and get off at Messe-Prater.

3:00 PM – Museum of Applied Arts

Also known as MAK, the Austrian Museum of Applied Arts is an extraordinary museum and one of the most fabulous structures in Vienna! One walk around here will have you feeling inspired and invigorated with a fresh new set of eyes to lay on the world. It has been around since the eighteenth century and has a lot to boast about in terms of its function and architectural properties!

The museum traces the artistic history of Austria and emphasizes current art accomplishments. You will find every kind of exhibition displayed here, from baroque glassware to industrial design awards. The museum is also known for hosting remarkable temporary exhibits. It will be sure to add a sense of excitement to your visit, and you may be lucky enough to see one!

The building of the Museum of Applied Arts is a masterpiece in itself, and you could spend plenty of time admiring the ceiling, which is a gorgeous neo-renaissance design. This one-of-a-kind museum is a museum of Austrian art, design, and also history. It offers a huge variety of insight into all of these fascinating areas!

• Cost:  €12.
• Getting there:  From the beginning of Wurstprater, it’s about 10-15 minutes walking back across the Danube Canal.

5:00 PM – Hundertwasser Apartment House and Museum

The artist in which this entire adventure pays homage to is Friedensreich Hundertwasser, and -although his name might be a tongue twister- it is well known to all Viennese households. The Apartment House is one of his very first and very influential designs. He was an architect with a love for out-of-the-box thinking and a dream to inspire people all over the world to create their own paradise on earth!

The apartment is one of Vienna’s highlights and shows off remarkable Antoni Gaudi style architecture. It is a real sight to behold and an eye-catching gem on your three day itinerary in Vienna.

The Hundertwasser Village is found just opposite the house, and there is a building that has an entire forest for a roof! The village itself is a small shopping center, complete with a handful of beautiful souvenir shops.

The museum is a short walk from the apartment and provides excellent insight into the world of this famous Viennese artist! The museum building has a beautiful interior design and is worth having a look at. You can also enjoy a selection of his artwork and become inspired by someone who has left a magnificent footprint of love and art as his legacy.

The Hundertwasser Apartment House can be seen from outside all day every day, however, the infoshop is only open from 9 am to 5 pm. You can see the village every day from 9 am to 6 pm and the museum from 10 am to 6 pm.

• Cost:  €11.
• How long should I stay here?  1 hour is fine.
• Getting there:  From the Kunsthaus, it’s a 5-minute walk to Hundertwasser.

7:00 PM – Danube Canal

Spend your last day in Vienna lounging by the lazy Danube Canal. Whilst a fairly unremarkable sight on its own, during the summer the canal can get pretty busy with pedestrians. Lots of people come here at the end of the day to relax and drink beers with friends!

There are lots of bars and restaurants around the Danube Canal. Strandbar Herrmann is probably the best of the bunch and features some excellent DJ sets. There’s also Badeschiff Wien, similar to Strandbar, as well as Motto am Fluss, which is a bit fancier. Regardless of which you end up choosing, relaxing with a large beer and some chips is the best way to end your Vienna itinerary.

• Cost:  €4-7 for a drink. €10-15 for a dinner.
• How long should I stay here?  The rest of the night!
• Getting there:  Find Lowengasse street and then grab Tram 1 at Hetzgasse stop. Ride for a couple stops on then Strandbar will be on the right.

Need a place quick? Here’s the best neighborhood in Vienna

Innere Stadt

Innere Stadt is the most central neighbourhood in Vienna, and where most of the historical sights are located. It is your best option to stay there if you are visiting the city for the first time, as you will be close to everything and in the centre of the action.

• Get a slice of Austria’s most famous cake at the Sacher Hotel
• Get a glimpse of the Habsburg’s family life at the Hofburg
• Visit Stephansdom, Vienna’s most famous religious building

Ready to go BEYOND our three day Vienna itinerary? Here some other places to check out around the city!

Central Cemetery

If you want to know what to see in Vienna that is unusual and mysterious, then the   Zentralfriedhof (Central Cemetery in English) definitely falls into that category! Some may not be comfortable with it, and therefore you can skip this option if that is the case, however, there is a serene atmosphere and a sense of beauty found at this cemetery that is unique to Vienna.

The Central Cemetery’s origins have a rich history, and it was built due to the overwhelming jump in population (approx. one million inhabitants) in 1874. It is the largest and most beautiful cemetery in Austria and one of the largest in the world.

The cemetery is full of ancient monuments and gorgeous statues.  You will also find a beautiful church through the main gate, known as the  Church of St. Borromeo.

Take the chance to relish your life whilst in a place that honors the dead and enjoy the way this cemetery has found a way to celebrate the lives of those who have passed.

Insider Tip:  To get the full spectrum of the Central Cemetery, it’s best to book a tour!

• How long should I stay here?  1-2 hours.
• Getting there:  The Central Cemetary is pretty far away from the city center. To arrive, you’ll need to take commuter train S7/S2 or tram 71, not the U-Bahn.

Wien Museum Mozart Apartment

One of the best things to see in Vienna in three days for all history and classical music lovers is to visit Mozart’s Apartment at the Wien Museum. You can walk in the footsteps of this iconic, revered, and gifted musician.

Feel the ambiance of this special place, a place where Mozart once sat and wrote his world-famous music! You can even glimpse the very same views he had and feel the inspiration that came forth from it all.

The apartment has been untouched since 1787 when Mozart last lived here, and it is a true monument of the composer’s long and rich legacy.

There is also a Mozart Museum onsite that has incredible historical knowledge about the life Mozart lived in Vienna, as well as insight into his musical masterpieces.

Dive into this beautiful, significant spot and learn about one of the world’s most gifted musicians ever to grace us with his talent!

• How long should I stay here?  Around 1 hour.
• Getting there:  Mozart’s apartment is located very near to St. Stephens Cathedral. Stephansplatz is the nearest U-Bahn stop (Line 1 and 3).

The Belvedere Palace

The Belvedere Palace is very similar to the Schönbrunn Palace: both are formally royal estates turned museums, both are opulently designed, and both are quite massive (though the Schönbrunn is bigger).

What The Belvedere offers that the Schönbrunn Palace does not though is one of the finest collections of art in Vienna, including one of the most hyped paintings in the modern era: The Kiss by Gustav Klimt. Considered by many to be a tour-de-force and even greater than the Mona Lisa , buying a ticket for the Belevedere Museums is worth seeing The Kiss alone.

There’s more to the Belvedere than just Klimt’s masterpiece though. The museum features other works of art by Klimt’s contemporaries and predecessors and the halls of The Belevedere itself are still remarkable. Be sure to find the Marble Hall in Upper Belvedere and then look up at the ceiling.

• How long should I stay here?  2-3 hours.
• Getting there:  The D Tram will drop you off right in front of The Belvedere.

MuseumsQuartier

The MuseumsQuartier is a semi-enclosed area of Vienna that is made up of 4-5 different museums. It’s a good place to visit in Vienna if you want to see a couple of different exhibitions in a row without having to walk around the city.

The Leopold Museum is probably the most popular attraction in the district as it features the most impressive collections. Dedicated mostly to the modernists and the Succesionist movement, this museum features works of art from many of the greatest Viennese painters, including Schiele, Klimt, and more. The Schiele is particularly impressive and shouldn’t be missed by anyone interested in his work.

The  MUMOK  located across the plaza from the Leopold. This is one of the leading contemporary art museums in Vienna and features much more modern pieces from recent decades. It’s a bit more minimal and less crowded than the Leopold and is best for those who like both art and technology together.

Other institutions of note in the MuseumsQuartier are the  Architekturzentrum Wien  (architecture) and the  ZOOM Kindermuseum  (children’s).

• Cost:  €20,90 for all four museums. Individual tickets vary.
• How long should I stay here?  Depends on how many museums you visit.

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt  except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

When traveling the world, it’s vital that you choose a time of year that suits your individual travel needs and desires. Knowing when to plan a trip to Vienna depends on what you want to see, how you want to experience it and whether or not you want to visit during peak season. Our Vienna itinerary will share some options to help you plan your trip!

Vienna has an oceanic climate, with pleasantly warm summers and icy dry winters. Peak season in Vienna is during spring and summer, with summer falling between the warm months of June to September. This is when most people flock to enjoy the good weather and get all of their sightseeing done in the sunshine.

If you want to experience a winter wonderland (complete with snowfall and Christmas markets ) then visiting Vienna in December is perfect. If rainy days spent in coffee houses sounds like something you want to make the best of, then visit in June, as this is when Vienna has the most rainfall on average.

The best periods to visit Vienna are typically between April and May, or September and October.  The weather is delightful and mild, with no extremes of any kind during these months. The upside of visiting during these months- as opposed to peak season- is that the prices of accommodation stay reasonable and don’t skyrocket.

Vienna has a truly impressive public transport network. Practically every part of the city is serviced by some sort of transit whether it be by bus, tram, or metro. Such connectivity makes backpacking in Vienna extremely easy.

For a city of its size, Vienna’s underground metro network is very impressive. The metro, or U-Bahn , is composed of six different lines that pretty much cover all of the top sights in Vienna . Even if you’re staying in the middle-of-nowhere Vienna like Donaustadt, you can still be in the city center in a half hour.

When using the metro, note that there are no turnstile kiosks where you would validate your ticket to gain entry BUT you still need to stamp it at a separate machine like it was back in the Industrial Fuckin’ Revolution.

What the U-Bahn doesn’t cover, trams and buses do. The tram network extends very far out into the outer neighborhoods of Vienna -. Ottakring, Funfhaus, and Wahring all have dedicated lines. So, again, don’t feel cut-off if you’re staying further outside the city center.

At 2.40 euro, tickets for public transport are a bit on the expensive side. They’re only good for one ride as well, which is a bit annoying. Since there are very few if any places that require to show a ticket, some people take a risk and ride without one. I’ll let you make that call yourself whether or not it’s worth dodging the occasional tram cop.

If you’re spending more than three days in Vienna and think that it would be worth it, buy a transit pass. You can buy a 48-hour pass for 14.10 euros or a 72-hour pass for 17.10 euros.

Depending on when you visit Vienna, you’ll need to pack accordingly i.e. warm clothing in the winter and lighter clothing in the summer; perhaps some outdoor gear as well if you plan on going to the Austrian Alps. For information on what to pack, refer to our general backpacking packing list article.

Although Vienna is not a prime spot for crime, it is always good to know some general knowledge about keeping yourself and your belongings safe while enjoying our Vienna itinerary. In fact, Vienna is a preferred travel destination because of it’s low crime rate, so we don’t expect you will run into trouble, but it is always better to be safe than sorry.

You may come across a lot of “Mozarts” dotted around Vienna, and these are typically panhandlers trying to sell tickets to concerts or performances. To get them to back off, simply state a strong ‘no’ and move on. You should be left alone. Buy your tickets from companies directly, as you don’t want to fall prey to a scam.

While traveling in Vienna, be aware of the cyclists. The cyclists in Vienna are super fast, and it can be easy to bump into them if you don’t look where you are going. Avoid this by keeping vigilant on the roads. There is a section clearly marked on the roads for cyclists, so this isn’t a major issue, but just make sure not to veer into this section by accident.

Keep in mind all of the general safety rules, such as not leaving your belongings unattended in a public space and making sure you don’t walk around with your handbag open wide. Try to avoid walking alone at night, as it is always safer to have a trusted company with you whilst walking.

For more information about keeping safe during your travels, read our list of crucial safety tips !

Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance for Vienna

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Find out what people want to know when planning their Vienna itinerary.

How many days are enough in Vienna?

Having 2-3 full days to explore Vienna will allow you to visit all the top attractions.

What should you include on a 3 day Vienna itinerary?

No trip to Vienna is complete without exploring these top places to visit: – Kunsthistorisches Museum – Schönbrunn Palace – Naschmarkt – Hundertwasser Apartment House

Where should you stay for a weekend in Vienna?

The Innere Stadt is the best area to stay in for a short trip. The heart of the city, it provides easy access to top attractions and is well connected to other areas.

What are the best day trips from Vienna?

Got time to explore further afield? Check out these top day trips: – Vienna Woods and Mayerling – Carnuntum – Salzburg – Hallstatt

Your trip to Vienna will be full of blissful galavanting, aesthetic scenery, unending historical knowledge, gorgeous imperial buildings, and plenty of priceless gems! Vienna has so much magic, and with our three day Vienna itinerary in hand, you will know all the best places to go and soak it all in!

The memories made on this adventure will be kept for an entire lifetime, and you will have stories to share with loved ones forever.

To make sure you can visit every hotspot, you need to have the right travel budget. Find out how expensive Vienna is , and how to use a couple of tips and tricks to keep a bit of money in your pocket. Even if you’re pushed for time then there are still some great day trips to take from Vienna too.

Share or save this post

Thank you sooooooo much for this detailed guide

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of followup comments via e-mail.

Vienna   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Christoph Hetzmannseder | Getty Images

Why Go To Vienna

History is at the heart of Vienna both literally and figuratively. The narrow streets of the Innere Stadt (Inner City) snake through antiquated buildings, providing an atmosphere so authentic that you almost expect a Vienna native like composer Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart or psychologist Sigmund Freud to round a cobblestone corner and greet you with " g uten tag ." Extravagant baroque palaces from the Habsburg Monarchy loom over the city, just as Mozart's classical arias pour from contemporary cafes. If it's culture you seek, you'll find it here. 

But there's more to this city than just music and monarchs. Vienna is also a great place to spend some cash, with independent bookstores competing for business alongside haute couture. There are also a surprising number of attractions for young ones, including an amusement park and a top-notch zoo . And although many Viennese retire early in the night, that doesn't mean you have to; sneak out to one of the bars in the city's Bermuda Triangle neighborhood, or drop by one of the wine taverns skirting the Vienna Woods.

Find Flight and Hotel Deals

Navigate forward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

Navigate backward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

• # 8 in Best Cheap European Honeymoon Destinations
• # 8 in Best Winter Vacations in Europe
• # 10 in Best Family Vacations in Europe

See All 7 Rankings

Best of Vienna

Best hotels in vienna.

• # 1 in Hotel Sacher Wien
• # 2 in Park Hyatt Vienna
• # 3 in The Ritz-Carlton, Vienna

Best Things to Do in Vienna

• # 1 in Hofburg Palace
• # 2 in Schönbrunn Palace
• # 3 in MuseumsQuartier Wien

Popular Tours

Full Day Tour from Vienna: Wachau, Melk, Hallstatt & Salzburg

(23 reviews)

from $ 208.65

Highlights of Vienna City Center Walking Tour

(900 reviews)

from $ 80.16

Vienna Classical Concert at St. Peter’s Church

(1090 reviews)

from $ 40.63

Vienna Travel Tips

Best months to visit.

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. December also sees a spike in tourism since many Europeans flock to the city for a taste of Christmas spirit served Viennese-style, but chilly temperatures can be a deterrent.

Weather in Vienna

Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center

What You Need to Know

Don't forget your dictionary  German is the official language of Austria, and while it is possible to find English speakers in touristy areas, a dictionary or phrasebook will help lower the language barrier.

Forget the car Driving in Vienna can be a nightmare thanks to narrow streets, heavy traffic and limited parking. Unless you are planning to explore the Austrian countryside, you're better off forgoing the car in favor of public transit.

Sample the street food  Street vendors in Vienna are known to offer exceptional quality food. Try a Viennese sausage – you won't regret it.

How to Save Money in Vienna

Widen your hotel search Avoid properties within the Ringstrasse since they are the priciest. You'll find plenty of affordable digs scattered throughout the inner and outer suburbs.

Spring for the Vienna City Card The Vienna City Card gets you discounted entry at more than 100 sites in Vienna, plus discounts at theaters, restaurants and accommodation. Discounts are available for seven days, and cards will get you free public transport for 24, 48 or 72 hours. The Vienna City Card costs 17 to 29 euros (about $18 to $31), depending on how long you want access to public transit. For an additional amount you can add on airport transfers and/or a hop-on hop-off sightseeing tour.

Night of the Museums On the first Saturday in October, many of the city's museums open late into the night (until 1 a.m.), and one ticket (usually around 15 euros, or $16) gets you into as many of them as you can cram into your evening. Museums often put on one-off events and tours.

Culture & Customs

You will find that most Viennese tend to dress conservatively. If you are traveling on business, make sure to wear proper business attire, such as a dark-colored suit or dress. If you are dining alongside Austrians, do not begin eating until the host says " Gesegnete Mahlzeit " (bless this meal, generally abbreviated to simply " Mahlzeit ") or " Guten Appetit " (enjoy your meal). It's not polite to leave food on your plate; however, if you're full, make sure to leave your knife and fork side by side on your plate. If you are invited to dinner, don't fight for the bill. Your host expects to pay. If you are paying the bill, gratuity – normally 10% – is usually already included. However, it is polite to round the bill up or leave an extra 5% for good service.

What to Eat

Dining on delectable Viennese cuisine is one of the city's major must-dos. But vegetarians beware: Much traditional Austrian cuisine centers on meat. However you can increasingly find plenty of vegetarian dishes, and there's a vegan food festival in August. Traditional Austrian taverns (known as beisls) serve up hearty portions of Tafelspitz (boiled beef), g o ulash (a rich stew made primarily from beef and potatoes) and W iener schnitzel (deep-fried, breaded veal). If you're looking to save some coin, though, you may want to avoid the Innere Stadt  neighborhood. Instead, check out the streets just beyond the city center. Over the past few years, Vienna has seen the rise of international cuisines, ranging from Asian to Italian fare. No matter where you decided to dine, carry cash: some restaurants do not accept credit cards.

When it's time for dessert, cafes cater to customers with a sweet tooth, serving wide assortments of delicious cakes and pastries like Sachertorte (Austria's most celebrated variety of chocolate cake), gugelhupf  (marbled bundt cake) , Kaiserschwarrn (chunks of fluffy pancake, caramelized and served with fruit compote) and apple strudel. The Viennese are also big fans of wine – around 1,700 acres of vineyards exist within the city limits and the wine can be enjoyed in over 180 taverns as well as tasting rooms, bars and eateries – and strong beer.

Vienna is considered one of the safest capitals in Europe and it often appears highly on many best quality of life rankings. Still, travelers should use common sense and keep an eye out for petty theft. The Prater amusement park and mass transit are popular hunting grounds for pickpockets.

Getting Around Vienna

The best ways to get around Vienna are on foot and by public transportation. Many historic attractions can be found within the compact Innere Stadt and are easy to reach with just a sturdy pair of walking shoes. But if you are interested in exploring some of the more remote districts, the city's subway, bus and streetcar routes will get you where you need to go. Taxis are abundant as well. There are also several methods of public transportation connecting Vienna to the Vienna International Airport (VIE) – about 12 miles southeast of the city center – including the City Airport Train to Wien Mitte station (which takes 16 minutes and costs about 15 euros for a one-way ride) and the Railjet to Wien Hauptbahnhof (which takes just 15 minutes and costs less than 5 euros one-way). Both stations are central, though Wien Mitte is closer to the Innere Stadt .

Entry & Exit Requirements

U.S. citizens can enter the country for up to 90 days without a visa. If you plan to stay longer, you must obtain the proper visa from the Austrian Embassy prior to departure. You will need a passport that is valid for at least three months after your return, though six months is recommended. For more information concerning entry and exit requirements for Austria, visit the U.S. State Department's website .

Beautiful Vienna is full of historic churches, insightful museums and colorful markets.

Explore More of Vienna

Things To Do

Best hotels.

You might also like

# 2 in  Best Eastern Europe Travel Spots

# 6 in  Best Christmas Vacations

# 9 in  Best Winter Vacations in Europe

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

Recommended

The 28 Best Water Parks in the U.S. for 2024

Holly Johnson|Timothy J. Forster May 8, 2024

The 18 Best Napa Valley Wineries to Visit in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Sharael Kolberg April 23, 2024

The 25 Best Beaches on the East Coast for 2024

Timothy J. Forster|Sharael Kolberg April 19, 2024

The 50 Best Hotels in the USA 2024

Christina Maggitas February 6, 2024

The 32 Most Famous Landmarks in the World

Gwen Pratesi|Timothy J. Forster February 1, 2024

9 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in Florida for 2024

Gwen Pratesi|Amanda Norcross January 5, 2024

24 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in the U.S. for 2024

Erin Evans January 4, 2024

26 Top Adults-Only All-Inclusive Resorts for 2024

Zach Watson December 28, 2023

Solo Vacations: The 36 Best Places to Travel Alone in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Erin Vasta December 22, 2023

26 Cheap Beach Vacations for Travelers on a Budget

Kyle McCarthy|Sharael Kolberg December 4, 2023

Vienna travel guide

Beautiful destinations and useful tips for your vacation

Vienna! We have fallen head over heels in love with the Austrian capital and are already looking forward to our next visits to Vienna.

Honestly, we could even imagine living there. If you stroll through the pretty streets of the city, you will feel the joy of life of its people.

The city is not only pretty, but also has a lot to offer. There are, of course, the famous sights such as Schönbrunn Palace, the Prater and St. Stephen’s Cathedral.

But there are also great beach bars along the Danube, lively market squares, the Naschmarkt with its delicacies, many great restaurants and, of course, Vienna’s nightlife. You will definitely not get bored in Vienna!

On this page you will find our reports and tips for your city trip to Vienna.

Hi! We are Jenny & Basti.

We’re head over heels in love with photography and traveling. We turned our shared passion into our profession and have been at home everywhere in the world ever since. On 22places we share everything about our travels: with a lot of attention for details, inspirational, authentic, and above all: always honest. On our travel blog, we share useful travel tips and give you practical photography advice.

Our blog posts about Vienna

What to Pack for a City Trip?

Things to See and Do in Vienna [+ Travel Tips]

Vienna: Hidden Gems and Spots You Shouldn’t Miss!

Where to Stay in Vienna: Our Favorite Areas and Hotels!

• International edition
• Australia edition
• Europe edition

A local’s guide to Vienna: 10 top tips

With such a rich cultural and historical heritage, the Austrian capital is a wonder to wander but don’t overlook its diverse neighbourhoods, cuisine and bars

District life

Vienna is divided into 23 districts ( Bezirke ), each distinct in reputation and purpose. The old town, officially the Innere Stadt (1st district, with St Stephen’s cathedral at its heart), is surrounded by the Ringstrasse, a splendid boulevard begun in the 1850s and not quite finished by the time the Austro-Hungarian Empire collapsed in 1918. Beyond the Ring lie districts two to nine, which are in turn surrounded by a much larger ring road, the Gürtel (belt). The Viennese often prefer to shop, drink and eat in their own district or a neighbouring one than venture into the centre. In winter, I advise huddling in the cosy bars and cafes of the 4th district (especially around Schleifmühlgasse), or the streets either side of the Mariahilferstrasse, the city’s unremarkable shopping drag. In recent years, Leopoldstadt (2nd district and traditionally the Jewish part of town) has happily re-emerged, and is also replete with warm and atmospheric cafes, bars, restaurants and clubs.

Brilliant museums

Vienna has a vast array of museums, including institutions dedicated to shoes, condoms, Esperanto and sanitation. Personal favourites include the Leopold Museum (€14/€10), which houses the largest collection of Egon Schiele art in the world, plus many others. The Jewish Museum (€12/€8) showcases the fascinating history of Jewish life, and continues to acquire artefacts to enrich its archives and innovate – its temporary exhibitions are often remarkable. My favourite piece is Theodor Herzl’s bicycle. Also well worth visiting is the imperial furniture collection, Hofmobiliendepot (€10.50/€9.50), with many former possessions of Habsburg monarchs.

Music and ballet

Vienna pretty much sets the standard for the rest of the world when it comes to classical music, and 2020 marks the 250th anniversary of Beethoven’s birth . I advise against pointing out to the Viennese that Beethoven was German and not Austrian (he established his career here), instead just revel in the devotion and adulation he stirs among locals. Incidentally, the building in which he completed his Ninth Symphony still stands and is now an excellent pub, Bierteufl , with typical Austrian fare. For an alternative to the prestigious venues, try the Volksoper – where the Vienna State Ballet sometimes perform (in addition to the state opera of course) – which has almost daily performances of operettas, operas, musicals or ballets at reasonable prices; standing places can cost as little as €3.

Bar crawling

Relaxed licensing times mean there is rarely any hurry when out for a drink in Vienna. Café Europa is a good example of this laidback attitude: it is open seven days a week, from 9am to 5am. Tachles , which bills itself as a Kulturcafé and takes its name from the Yiddish for “straight-talking”, is the full package. A lovely old-fashioned, wood-panelled boozer in its own right, it serves delicious Polish pierogi (filled savoury dumplings) and often has live music.

Death in Vienna

If Vienna has the best quality of life in the world, it also has the best quality of death. Few cities have such beautiful, well-tended and pleasant cemeteries. The Viennese take strolls in cemeteries as others would go for a walk in the park. Of the nearly 50 cemeteries, the Zentralfriedhof is the biggest and most famous. Many of the world’s greatest composers are here, including Beethoven and Schubert, but not Mozart; his remains are in the St Marx cemetery in the 3rd district (Landstraße). For a more morbid – but dynastic – experience, head to the Kapuzinergruft (€7.50/€6.50), the burial place of the Habsburgs on the Neuer Markt in the Inner City. There, you’ll find the sarcophagi of over 100 members of the imperial family in all imaginable styles. History buffs like me will be thrilled to see Empress Maria Theresa and her son the enlightened despot Joseph II (brother to Marie Antoinette), Franz Joseph I and Empress Sisi (assassinated in Geneva by an Italian anarchist in 1898), the tragic Crown Prince Rudolf (who committed suicide with his 17-year-old mistress) and the equally tragic Emperor Maximilian of Mexico (executed by firing squad in 1867).

For a real, no-nonsense taste of Vienna, head for Schnitzelwirt , which serves family-size portions of schnitzel at an unbeatable €6.90. The Viennese traditionally eat it with a cold potato salad. Diverging may cause frowns. Viennese menus usually comprise the same group of dishes, sometimes Austrian in origin but often inherited from the various nationalities of the empire: Hungarian goulash (thicker and less spicy than its Magyar counterpart), wiener schnitzel (strictly made from veal but often from pork), south Slav ćevapčići (grilled minced meat), crêpe-like Palatschinken (claimed by the Romanians), and Powidltascherl (sweet dumplings filled with stewed plum or plum jam) from the Czechs, to name but a few. Emperor Franz Joseph’s favourite was Tafelspitz , beef boiled in a vegetable broth, served with gratin potatoes, apple horseradish and sour cream with chives. The most famous Tafelspitz restaurant is Plachutta , which has three locations in the city, but I would head for the equally excellent Gasthaus Pfudl . Also worth a mention is the resurrected Viennese institution Meissl & Schadn : an imperial staple that survived the first world war (even though future Social Democratic grandee Friedrich Adler assassinated the Austrian prime minister there during his lunch in 1916), but not the second. Reopened at Schubertring 10-12 in 2017, it now offers traditional Viennese cuisine in a charming setting.

Architectural delights

Leave your map in your pocket and wander through the old town, raising your eyes and poking your nose into every courtyard and hidden church. This eclectic cocktail of medieval, baroque, historicist and modernist buildings will quench most architectural thirsts. Look out for the Looshaus (Michaelerplatz 3), which offended upper-class Viennese people with its “obscene nakedness” (lack of window-roofing) upon completion in 1912, and the gothic Maria am Gestade (Salvatorgasse 12), finished in 1414, which Joseph Cotten memorably runs past in Carol Reed’s 1949 film The Third Man – still shown at least three times a week at the city’s oldest cinema, Burg Kino . The university , the oldest in the German-speaking world, offers guided tours in English (€5, every Saturday, 11.30am) through its neo-Renaissance premises, and the Prunksaal (state hall) of the old imperial library (1723-26), surely one of the most beautiful in the world (€8, Josephsplatz 1). Often missed by visitors are Vienna’s Gemeindebauten (municipality buildings), social housing projects built between 1919 and 1934. Still the property of the council and serving their original purpose, these beautiful icons of the Red Vienna era are worth exploring. The most remarkable example is the one-kilometre-long Karl-Marx-Hof in the 19th district. Also try the Rabenhof in the 3rd district and the exotic-looking Reumannhof in the 5th.

Kaffeehäuser

The Viennese institution par excellence, the coffee house is far more than a place to drink coffee (from a bewildering array of recipes) and to enjoy guilt-inducing slices of cake. The waiters are haughty, buttoned-up and stuffy: that is in the job description. Do not let it put you off! In Vienna, you can order a single espresso for €3 and stay put for hours; with hot food served from late morning to late evening, there often appears to be no reason ever to leave. Many Kaffeehäuser have retained their old-world glory and charm, such as Café Schwarzenberg , which even has friendly service. Café Diglas and Café Frauenhuber almost manage the same feat, despite being right in the centre of the old town. Kaffee Alt Wien , founded in 1936, is a relative newcomer, but offers a more informal, youthful atmosphere. Further afield, in the 4th district, a splendid example of a local coffee house is Café Anzengruber , run by a delightful mother-and-son team (I recommend the goulash). Café Hummel in the 8th is equally reliable and authentic.

Wine taverns

During the summer it is a pleasure to go out to Heurige wineries in Nußdorf and Grinzing or to their less well-known counterparts in Sievering, Neustift am Walde or Ottakring (at the end of public transport lines in the west of the city). These traditional taverns simply serve wine produced from their own vineyards (ie their back gardens). They are open during the clement half of the year or longer. Some, such as 10er Marie (16th district), the oldest Heuriger in Vienna (1740), are open all year. Walk in, sit at a large wooden table, order a jug (or several), pick from the buffet, and enjoy the views of vine-covered hillsides.

The Viennese are keen beer drinkers and the standard is invariably good (I favour Stiegl , Murauer and Wieselburger above all, though the local Viennese lager is Ottakringer). Avoid the drunken touristic area around Schwedenplatz and Rotenturmstraße in the 1st district, and head for a traditional inn – a Gastwirtschaft or Gasthaus . Good examples are Rohrböck in the 4th, Wratschko , in the 7th or Zur Eisernen Zeit , on the Naschmarkt in the 6th at the popular market.

Winters are usually very cold, but the Christmas markets, ice-skating (head to Rathausplatz ) and snow make the city look idyllically festive. In the hot summers, enjoy riverside beaches on the Danube, open-air public baths and ice-cream parlours. To avoid extremes, both of temperature and tourism, try May or September.

Getting there I travel by rail every time; if you set off early from London, you can reach Vienna the same day. From St Pancras, take the 6.47 or 7.16 Eurostar to Brussels; change to the 10.25 high-speed ICE train to Frankfurt; then take the 14.21 ICE to Vienna, arriving at 20.45 (tickets from £110 each way if booked in advance, more advice at seat61.com ). Austrian rail operator ÖBB is introducing new sleeper services direct from Brussels to Vienna in January, initially on Mondays and Thursdays (return journey Sunday and Wednesday) leaving the Belgian capital at 18.30. ÖBB aims to run this service on other nights, too, by the end of 2020.

Where to stay

The Beethoven (doubles from €150 room only) is well situated on Naschmarkt, opposite the old entrance (the Papagenotor) of the Theater an der Wien, a few minutes walk from the Vienna State Opera. Each floor has its own carefully researched locally based theme and each room dedicated to a prominent artist or cultural icon with Vienna links. More affordable is the Senator (doubles from €60 room-only) on Hernalser Hauptstrasse in the 17th district, a 20-minute or so tram ride from the centre. Centrally located hostels include Prime Rooms 2.0 , with dorm beds from €18.

This article was modified on 19 December 2019 to make clear that Joseph II was an “enlightened despot”, not “despotic”

Looking for a holiday with a difference? Browse Guardian Holidays to see a range of fantastic trips

• Vienna holidays
• A local's guide
• Austria holidays
• City breaks
• Cultural trips
• Europe holidays
• Food and drink

Comments (…)

Most viewed.

Are you planning a trip to Vienna? We're here to help! Our Vienna travel guide includes all the information you need to have the best possible time in one of Europe's most important cities .

Vienna Travel Guide

• General information
• What to see
• Getting to Vienna
• Vienna on a budget
• Where to stay
• Where to eat
• Two days in Vienna

Why visit Vienna?

Vienna is a captivating mix of old and new; Vienna is delicious  cuisine : a cultural melting pot in which you can find dishes from every world cuisine, complemented perfectly by  delicious Austrian pastries and excellent coffee ;  Vienna is music, the home of great composers such as Strauss, Beethoven and Mozart and the host to world-renowned opera ; Vienna is culture, with more than 100 museums to choose from.

Thanks to its unique charm , Vienna will be the backdrop to many incredible memories that will stay with you forever; spend a quiet evening at the opera, wander through its historical center under the watchful gaze of the cathedral  or enjoy a Viennese coffee accompanied by a slice of delicious Sachertorte chocolate cake.

Preparing for your visit

If you're planning a trip to Vienna and don't know much about the city, learning about its history is a great start. The next steps are to read our practical information about traveling to Vienna , as well as check out the different areas and places to see . Then you could have a look and see which museums interest you the most.

Get a discount on your hotel booking

If you book your hotel well in advance, you'll not only have many options to choose from, but you'll also be able to enjoy  fantastic discounts of up to 75% . Using our search engine , you can book any hotel in Vienna securely and with the best price guaranteed.

• Hotels in Vienna - Book online to get the best price guaranteed

Planning to visit Prague or Budapest?

If you fancy seeing more of Central Europe, check out our guides on Prague and Budapest .

top activities

Hallstatt Day Trip Discover the small town Hallstatt , one of the most enchanting places in Austria , with this day trip from Vienna. Live a genuine fairy tale!

Attending a classical music concert in the Musikverein is a must if you're in Vienna. Experience Mozart's most famous works in an unforgettable setting!

With this entrance ticket to the Belvedere Museum, you'll visit one of the most important art collections in Austria and see famous works like Klimt's  The Kiss !

Hitler's Vienna Tour Learn about Adolf Hitler’s early years in Vienna and how he became the leader of the Nazi Party on a 2.5-hour walking tour of the centre.

Saint Peter's Church Concert Listen to the great symphonies of classical music in an amazing setting with this concert at St. Peter's Church in Vienna .

Haus der Musik Ticket Make the most of your time in the City of Music visiting Vienna's Haus der Musik. Discover the great classical composers and create your own symphony!

Full-Day Trip to Salzburg As the birthplace of Mozart and the setting of the Sound of Music, Salzburg has become one of Austria's most popular destinations. Discover its magic.

Free Tour of Vienna at Night The Austrian capital is one of Europe's most elegant cities. Discover its beauty by the light of the moon on this free tour of Vienna at night .

Schönbrunn Palace Concert Enjoy a classical music concert in the most famous palace in the city, the  Schönbrunn Palace  – unmissable on any visit to Vienna!

Explore Vienna's most famous synagogue  on this tour of the Stadttempel. We'll learn about the history of this community and why it's so important.

Tour of Vienna and the Schönbrunn Palace Our guided tour of Vienna is the ideal way to discover the city and get skip the line access to its most important monument, the stunning Schönbrunn Palace.

Schönbrunn Palace Tour Discover one of the most elegant buildings in Vienna on this guided tour of the Schönbrunn Palace – you'll be captivated by this UNESCO World Heritage Site!

Vienna By Night Sightseeing Tour Spending the evening admiring the most emblematic monuments around this Unesco World Heritage City all lit up with this Vienna Sightseeing Tour.

Parndorf Designer Outlet Trip Discover the most exclusive shops at the Parndorf Designer Outlet in Vienna. With more than 160 brands at the best prices, you're sure to grab a bargain !

With this ticket to the Albertina Modern Museum , you can visit one of the most important collections of modern and contemporary art in the world!

Ticket to Mozart's House See the house in the middle of Vienna where one of the world's greatest musical geniuses once lived: Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart . Ideal for music lovers!

Vienna Pub Crawl Get to know  Vienna's party side on this pub crawl through the city centre. Join the locals, try the most typical drinks and dance until dawn.

Swarovski House Guided Tour Discover the history of one of the most famous jewellery manufacturers in the world , on this guided tour of the Swarovski House in Vienna!

Vienna Pass The Vienna Pass allows access to more than 70 attractions in Vienna, including the Schönbrunn, Hofburg and Belvedere palaces, Mozart's house and much more.

Albertina Museum Tickets Get lost in the masterpieces of the Albertina's art collection. Itself an architectural marvel, it has more than 65,000 drawings and a million old master prints

Imperial Treasury Vienna Ticket Descubre los secretos del palacio donde vivió la emperatriz Sissi con esta entrada al Tesoro Imperial de Viena, ubicado en el lujoso Palacio Hofburg.

Sissi Tour of the Hofburg Palace Retrace the footsteps of the legendary Empress Sissi on this Vienna tour, immersing yourself in her memory and legacy at the museum Hofburg Palace!

Vienna Sightseeing Bus The Vienna Sightseeing Bus  is the perfect way to tour the main monuments of the Austrian capital in a comfortable and practical way .

Vienna Big Bus Hop-On Hop-Off Tour The Vienna hop-on hop-off bus is a great way to get around the City of Music. You can get on and off at any of the stops  and explore at your own pace!

Danube & Wachau Valleys Day Trip Ancient towns , sloping vineyards , spectacular scenery —on this day trip from Vienna, we'll discover some of Ausrtria's best-kept secrets !

Vienna Ghosts and Legends Tour Discover the cruel murders and dark secrets that lurk in the shadowy corners of Vienna on this ghosts and legends tour. You'll love it!

Bratislava Day Trip & Danube Cruise Discover the beauty of Bratislava  on this tour. Explore the city's historic centre & return to Vienna by boat, enjoying spectacular views on the Danube .

Vienna Flexi Pass The Vienna Flexi Pass gives you access to 2, 3, 4 or 5 tourist attractions  in the Austrian capital. Visit them at your own leisure and save money!

Vienna Museum of Illusions Ticket If you're looking to do something a little different in Vienna, get your ticket to the Museum of Illusions and find out what the limits of reality are. 

Concert in St. Anne's Church Can you imagine listening to a classical music concert in its world capital? At St. Anne's Church in Vienna you'll listen to pieces by Mozart, Schubert and more

Classical Music Concert in the Kursalon Enjoy classical music in a unique space,   the famous Vienna Kursalon . You can also complete your experience with a delicious dinner!

Museum of Art History Ticket Explore the rooms of a palace full of some of the most unique art pieces in the world with this ticket to the Vienna Museum of Art History.

Vienna Bike Tour On this  bike tour in Vienna , we'll pedal around the best  monuments and buildings in the centre of the Austrian capital . It's a sustainable activity!

Schönbrunn Palace with Dinner & Concert Embark on a self-guided free tour, where you'll have the opportunity to see Schoenbrunn Palace and enjoy dinner accompanied by a classical music concert!

Dinner and Show in Vienna Enjoy a different kind of evening in Vienna with dinner and a show in the Wiener Rathauskeller restaurant, located on the ground floor of the Vienna Town Hall. 

Mauthausen Concentration Camp Guided Tour On this day trip to the Mauthausen concentration camp , we'll explore and uncover the fateful events that took place behind the walls of this massive labor camp.

Vienna Woods Tour Leave the city behind and discover the beautiful Vienna Woods , explore the Heiligenkreuz Abbey, and see the largest underground lake in Europe!

Danube River Dinner Cruise Embark on a magical evening on the Danube with this boat cruise including a delicious buffet of traditional Austrian food with the city illuminated.

Bratislava Tour On this excursion to Bratislava you will travel on your own by bus from Vienna to the capital of Slovakia , where you will enjoy an English-speaking tour.

Vienna Private Tour Discover the history, culture and music of the Austrian capital with this Vienna Private Tour. Explore the beautiful city with an exclusive guide.

Budapest Day Trip On this day trip from Vienna to Budapest , we'll journey to the captivating capital of Hungary to marvel at its iconic bridges and delve into its rich history.

Vienna Kayak Tour Join this  kayak tour in Vienna for a unique experience in the capital city. Explore the  Danube River and marvel at the pristine nature and charming sights.

Wine Tour Through the Vienna Woods Get ready for a wine adventure in the Vienna Woods ! Join us on this tour as we uncover the secrets of Lower Austria's wine production , complete with a tasting.

Schönbrunn Tourist Train Discover one of the Jewels of Vienna aboard the  Schönbrunn  sightseeing train - explore the palace and climb to the Gloriette !

Alternative Vienna Kick Bike Tour Do you want to discover the Austrian capital in an unforgettable way? With this Vienna Kick Bike Tour you'll pedal through the city's most important quarters.

Learn about the famous people who've marked the history of Austria's capital with this tour through the Vienna Central Cemetery, the third-largest in Europe!

Weltmuseum Ticket With this ticket to the Weltmuseum, you'll see some of the most important discoveries in world history , such as Montezuma's headdress.

Imperial Carriage Museum Ticket You can't miss out on the chance to discover these Viennese carriages, renowned for their ornate and delicate decorations - get your ticket now!

Hard Rock Cafe Vienna If you're passionate about live rock music and American food, don't miss out on Hard Rock Cafe Vienna's finger-licking menus!

Madame Tussauds Vienna Want to meet some of the world's most famous people? At Madame Tussauds in Vienna , you'll get the chance to take pictures with your biggest idols.

MAK Ticket Grab your MAK Ticket and visit an incredible space that houses works by renowned artists such as  Gustav Klimt and Hoffmann  

If you love the performing arts and want to see a place that exhibits the history of the world on stage, don't miss a visit to the Austrian Theatermuseum.

Vienna Food Tour If you have a taste for diverse cuisine and beer , then this food tour of Vienna is perfect for you. Indulge in a culinary adventure in the Austrian capital!

Austrian Beer Tasting Enjoy a tasting of Austrian beers  in the heart of Vienna. A unique experience where you can try different varieties of local beers!

Medieval Vienna: Legends of the Great Plague Adventure Quest Would you like to discover Austria's capital in a unique way ? With this Medieval Vienna: Legends of the Great Plague   quest , you'll solve puzzles with an app.

Mythos Mozart Ticket With this ticket to Mythos Mozart , you'll dive into the captivating world of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart at an interactive and immersive exhibit!

Discover the best of the Austrian capital on this tour of Vienna which includes a   visit to the State Opera House , one of the most iconic buildings in the city.

Schönbrunn Palace Christmas Concert Spend a magical evening in Vienna at the Schönbrunn Palace Christmas concert . At this festive event, you'll get to stroll around and taste different delicacies .

Vienna Wine Tasting Discover the long tradition and  history of wine in Vienna  on this Austrian wine-tasting experience . You'll sample local wines and learn about their production.

Vienna Christmas Market Tour Get lost in a real-life fairytale with this tour of Vienna's famous Christmas markets - enjoy the most magical time of year in the Austrian capital!

Free Walking Tour of Vienna Immerse yourself in the charm and history of the Austrian capital on this free walking tour of Vienna . We'll discover the city's  most iconic monuments !

Why is our Vienna travel guide the best?

We've travelled around Vienna and got to know the city so that we can give you the best recommendations and most helpful advice to  make the most of your time and money . This is a guide for travellers by travellers.

The information and practical details in this guide are up to date as of January 2023. If you see an error or something that you think we should change, please contact us.

Our travel guides

• top attractions
• where to stay
• and much more

A First Timer’s Guide to Visiting Vienna, Austria

Disclaimer: This article includes affiliate links to the products we earnestly love and recommend, meaning at no extra cost to you, we might make a teeny-weeny commission if you click on the link and decide to buy something. The money will be used to sustain this little cozy blog we call our virtual home.

On the hunt for the ultimate resource for your Vienna adventure? Look no further! This guide is packed with all the essentials you’ll need for a memorable stay in Austria’s capital. If you’re visiting Vienna for the first time and want to know everything to navigate it better, we’ve got you covered with insider tips and must-knows. Let’s make your Vienna journey truly unforgettable!

Visiting Vienna Travel Guide

From its rich cultural heritage to its mind-blowing art scene to its stunning architecture to UNESCO-listed Viennese Coffee House Culture and not to mention, iconic traditional food – Vienna has oodles to offer to its visitors . It truly stands out as one of Austria’s most enchanting destinations .

With an endless number of interesting museums, galleries, and cultural institutions like Kunsthistorisches Museum, Albertina, Leopold Museum, Belvedere Palace, and so on, Vienna is also one of the best cities for arts and culture. It’s here, you’ll find the masterpieces of famous artists like Gustav Klimt, Egon Schiele, and Oskar Kokoschka.

Now we can’t talk about Vienna without mentioning its timeworn tradition of classical music. Known as the “City of Music”, famous composers like Mozart, Beethoven, and Strauss called it home.

Vienna beautifully manages to keep its classical music tradition alive. You can attend spellbinding concerts at historical musical venues around the city, such as the Vienna State Opera, the Vienna Philharmonic, and the Musikverein.

The fans of architecture will appreciate the city for its unique and elegant architecture that blends Gothic, Baroque, and Art Nouveau styles.

Also, there are umpteen historic restaurants, coffeehouses, and wine taverns around the city for you to bask in the world-famous Viennese coffee culture , wine culture, and traditional cuisine.

And just as importantly, If and when you need a peaceful respite from the city, there’s no dearth of lush green spaces to relax and unwind. The best part is that most of the beautiful parks, gardens, and nature reserves in Vienna such as the Schönbrunn Palace Gardens, the Stadtpark, and the Vienna Woods are free!

Where is Vienna in Austria?

The largest city and the capital of Austria, Vienna sits gracefully along the banks of the Danube River.

Situated at the core of Central Europe , Vienna is frequently dubbed the “City of Music” due to its rich musical heritage. Additionally, its title as the “City of Dreams” pays homage to its most renowned resident, Sigmund Freud, the pioneer of psychoanalysis.

Things to Know Before Visiting Vienna, Austria

The exploration becomes all the more easy with all the practical information under your belt. Here are the essentials you need for planning a trip to Vienna:

How Long Should You Spend in Vienna

Deciding how long to spend in Vienna really depends on what you want to get out of your visit. If it’s your first time and you’re keen on hitting all the iconic sights like St. Stephen’s Cathedral, Hofburg Palace, and the Vienna State Opera, then a minimum of three to four days is recommended.

With three or four days in Vienna, you can get the vibe of the city and can tick off the major tourist attractions. With mannerly planning, you might be able to squeeze in some of the lesser-known wonders too.

But let’s be real, Vienna has layers, and to truly peel them back—a week would let you dive deeper. You’ll have time to explore the artsy districts, indulge in Viennese coffee culture, and maybe even catch a live classical music performance.

Trust me, Vienna is the sort of city that reveals itself slowly; the longer you stay, the more hidden gems you’ll discover.

Best Time to Visit Vienna

Vienna is beautiful no matter the season. It’s truly a year-round destination. As such there’s no best time to visit Vienna – Every season has its own charms and quirks!

To put it in other words, the best time to visit Vienna depends totally on your personal preferences and what you want to do and see in the city.

If you’re looking for warm weather and outdoor activities, June through September is the best time to plan.

If you want to experience Vienna’s festive mood and Christmas cheer , you should plan around December. Winter is also a good time for a peaceful city break.

Wine lovers can plan during the wine harvest season that peaks in September and October. It’s also the beautiful time of the year when autumn foliage envelops the city’s parks.

The spring months of March and April bring milder temperatures and vibrant spring blooms.

Overall, the best time to visit Vienna would be during the shoulder seasons of spring (April to May) and fall (September to October). During these months, the weather is pleasant and the crowds are fewer. Additionally, you can expect to grab good deals on accommodation, flights, and tours.

How to Get to Vienna

Vienna being one of the most popular cities across the world is easy to get to with several transportation options available.

With a well-served International Airport, there are plentiful airlines, direct and indirect, flying to Vienna from various cities across the world.

If you are coming from one of the neighboring European cities like Budapest, Prague, Munich, Bratislava, or Zagreb, Vienna has a robust inter-country rail network system. It has several train stations, with the main one being the Wien Hauptbahnhof or Vienna Central Station. You can check the timetables, and ticket prices, and book your tickets online using Trainline or Rail Europe.

If you prefer a bus journey, there are several bus companies offering services to Vienna from other European cities. Vienna International Bus Terminal handles tons of international bus connections. Flixbus comes in handy when you want to book bus tickets online.

And did you know, you can travel to Vienna by boat or ferry if you are coming from Bratislava, Slovakia?

And then comes our favorite way to travel between European countries – by rental car. Nothing competes for the freedom it brings. Consider Discover Cars for cheap and the best car rental hire in Europe.

How to Get to the City from the Airport

With a distance of about 18 km, there are several transportation options available to travel between Vienna International Airport and Vienna city center.

The fastest way to get to the city center from the airport is by riding the City Airport Train (CAT) from the airport terminal. This non-stop train runs every 30 minutes and takes a little over 15 minutes from the airport to Wien-Mitte Station.

S-Bahn is also a great option and affordable too. The S7 line runs between the airport and the city center, with trains departing every 30 minutes wherein a 25-minute journey stops at different stations in the city center, including Wien Mitte and Wien Praterstern. You can choose to take a drop at the nearest to your hotel.

You can opt to board an Airport Bus. Vienna Airport Lines operates quite a few bus routes that connect the airport to different parts of the city. The most convenient one is bus 1187 which runs every 30 minutes and takes 20 minutes to reach Wien Hauptbahnhof, the main train station in Vienna.

The easiest yet most expensive way to get to the city center is by hiring a taxi or ride-hailing services like Uber and Bolt. It takes about 20-30 minutes to reach, depending on traffic.

For first-timers, pre-booking an airport transfer is a convenient and hassle-free option. At €36, including full meet-and-greet support and a local, English-speaking driver, it’s fairly priced.

How to Get Around Vienna

Vienna enjoys an extensive public transportation network that makes getting around the city almost effortless and affordable.

The public transportation system includes buses, trams, and underground trains (U-Bahn). Covering the length and breadth of the city, Vienna U-Bahn or Subway is an exceptionally efficient and cost-effective way to move around Vienna.

You can purchase a  Vienna Card  online to get unlimited public transport use for 24, 48, or 72 hours.

Walking can be a great way to explore the city’s historic centre, the cultural heart of Vienna as nearly all the top attractions are within walking distance.

With a good number of bike paths, Vienna makes for a great bike-friendly city. You can rent a bike from one of the many bike rental companies like Citybike Wien and explore the city’s hidden gems on bikes.

For attractions that are out a bit, taxis and other ride-hailing services like Uber and Bolt be more expensive, however, be efficacious.

I highly recommend downloading a mobility app called WienMobil from Wiener Linien – no matter how you are traveling around Vienna – by public transport, by bike, by taxi, or on foot – this app literally brings the entire city to your fingertips.

Where to Stay in Vienna

Innere Stadt aka the First District, the historic old town and the heart of the city’s cultural and iconic tourist attractions like St. Stephen’s Cathedral, the Hofburg Palace, and the Vienna State Opera is the best neighborhood to stay in Vienna for the first-timers.

Also, it’s here where you’ll find most of the famous restaurants and cafes.

The neighborhood is pedestrian-friendly so it’s easy to explore on foot. Plus, being the center of the city, it’s also well-connected to the efficient public transportation system of Vienna, so you can easily get to the other parts of the city.

From budget-friendly hotels to mid-range accommodations to luxurious properties to charming boutique hotels – there are plenty of accommodation options in Innere Stadt for every budget and style.

Here are my recommendations for accommodations in Innere Stadt:

Budget travelers will love Palais Elegance Wien , a lovely hotel that offers comfortable rooms, studios, and apartments with modern designs and most importantly, a central location. Each accommodation comes with city views.

A dependable mid-range option in Innere Stadt, Hotel König von Ungarn is the oldest hotel in Vienna. Founded in 1746, the hotel raves exclusively designed and decorated rooms and promises a traditional Viennese ambiance. A lucky find for culture lovers!

Hotel Sacher Wien is Vienna’s premier hotel and is in a class of its own when it comes to luxury. Talking about the location, It’s just opposite the iconic Vienna State Opera – as good as it gets. It offers individually decorated rooms and world-class service.

Next door to the Innere Stadt, MuseumsQuartier in the 7th district (Neubau) of Vienna is a beautiful art center in Vienna and my favorite place to stay in Vienna. It has an artsy vibe and an incredible cultural scene. You can book a stay at the 25hours Hotel at MuseumsQuartier for a unique experience.

Just about a 5-minute walk from MuseumQuartier, in a charming neighborhood of Spittelberg is Hotel Altstadt Vienna , another favorite. Set in a renovated historic building, it’s a gorgeous boutique hotel with an elegant and cozy vibe.

What to do in Vienna

Vienna, a charming city where classical music, art, and coffee culture thrive.

First and foremost, immerse yourself in the city’s musical heritage. Attend a soul-stirring performance at the Vienna State Opera or the Musikverein.

For those with a penchant for imperial grandeur, the palatial splendors of Schönbrunn Palace and Belvedere Palace beckon.

As you wander, don’t miss the chance to savor a cup of traditional Viennese coffee in one of the city’s iconic coffeehouses. It’s not just a beverage here; it’s an experience, especially when paired with a slice of the world-famous Sachertorte.

The MuseumsQuartier is a haven for art lovers, with contemporary art spaces nestled alongside historic museums.

Embrace the rhythm of Vienna by attending one of its grand balls. Even if you’ve got two left feet, the magic of the evening is bound to sweep you off them.

A bustling market of Naschmarkt is where you can find the variety of flavors from around the world, everything from local cheeses to exotic spices.

And for those who need a touch of nature, the Vienna Woods offer the perfect escape—a tranquil haven where the city’s hustle and bustle seem a world away.

Lastly, Sipping wine at a Viennese Heurigen is an experience that goes beyond mere tasting—it’s a cultural deep dive.

As you wander into one of these rustic wine taverns, often family-owned and situated amidst vineyards, mostly sprinkled throughout Vienna’s outskirts such as Grinzing, Neustift am Walde, and Nussdorf, you’ll feel a sense of timelessness. Here, the wine flows from barrels, not bottles, and it’s as local as it gets, usually produced from grapes grown on the surrounding hills.

We have a detailed post about the  best things to do in Vienna for you.

Day Trips from Vienna

As I said, Vienna is a great base to explore the nearby Austrian gems, Here are our top 6-day trips from Vienna suggestions: 1. Wachau Valley 2. Hallstatt 3. Grossglockner 4. Bratislava 5. Salzburg 6. Budapest

Here’s a detailed post about the  best day trips from Vienna   for you.

What and Where to Eat in Vienna

From traditional to modern, sweet to savory, there’s something for every palate in Vienna.

Indulge in Sachertorte , a chocolate cake that’s a Viennese classic, at its birthplace, Hotel Sacher .

For savory delights, Wiener Schnitzel is a must-try, especially at Figlmüller aka the Home of the Schnitzel, and no trip to Vienna is complete without sampling their iconic Apfelstrudel .

If you’re a fan of sausages, don’t miss the Käsekrainer , a cheese-filled sausage.

Eiernockerl are comforting Austrian dumplings, a simple yet satisfying blend of eggs, flour, and a pinch of salt. For dessert, don’t miss Kaiserschmarrn , a delectable shredded pancake that epitomizes Austrian sweet indulgence.

Palatschinken , Austrian pancakes, are perfect for those with a sweet tooth, and for a quick snack, Pretzels are readily available at street corners.

For those who want to dine like a local, check out Gasthaus Pöschl for traditional Austrian fare. Plachutta Wollzeile is the go-to spot for the best Tafelspitz (boiled beef) in town. Vegetarians shouldn’t miss Deli Bluem , a cozy spot serving plant-based delights.

When it comes to quick bites, Trzesniewski offers a range of open-faced sandwiches that are perfect for on-the-go snacking.

If you’re an aficionado of all things sweet, head straight to Demel . Known for its dazzling display of cakes, tortes, and pastries, Demel is a dessert lover’s paradise.

For coffee aficionados, the cafes to put on your radar are Cafe Central , Cafe Sacher , Cafe Sperl , and Cafe Schwarzenberg , Cafe Landtmann , Cafe Frauenhuber , and Hawelka . Each offers a unique blend of history, coffee, and delectable pastries.

For those traveling with family, Zum Schwarzen Kameel offers a versatile menu that pleases both young and old. For dessert, Xocolat serves up a variety of handmade chocolates that are sure to be a hit with the kids.

And there you have it—your ultimate guide to making the most of Vienna. If you find yourself pondering over any details or in need of extra insights, don’t hesitate to hit us up in the comments. We’re all about making your Austrian escapade nothing short of fabulous.

Save this Travel Guide to Vienna to Pinterest

Anjali Chawla

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

© 2024 Travel Melodies. All Rights Reserved.

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

• Attractions and Landmarks
• Food and Wine
• Restaurants

Dreaming of your next trip?

I agree to the Forbes Travel Guide Privacy Policy , Terms , and Cookie Policy . I understand I can withdraw my consent at any time.

Sign up for our newsletter

• 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

Vienna Tourist Information

The Complete Guide for Your Trip to Vienna: Plan, See and Experience

Visit Iconic Landmarks of Vienna

Sights, Attractions and Museums

15 Classical Concerts in Vienna [Compare Tickets]

Guide to spanish riding school: performance, tickets & history, guide to schönbrunn palace: admission, things to do & zoo, guide to belvedere palace: exhibition, tickets & history, guide to schönbrunn zoo in vienna: animals, admission & travel tips, guide to st. stephens cathedral: tickets, tips & history, guide to hofburg imperial palace: tickets, tips, history…, vienna imperial treasury: collection, highlights & tickets, vienna giant ferris wheel: ride, tickets, tips & history, what can i do in vienna.

From Activities for Kids to Exceptional Experiences

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

30 best museums in vienna [with tickets & map], 25 best things to do with kids in vienna [with tickets & map], 20 exceptional attractions in vienna [with map], book your tickets for vienna online.

Skip-the-line tickets to museums, sights and attractions in Vienna with audio guides.

Plan a Trip to Vienna

 Arrival in Vienna, Schwechat Airport and Public Transport

Travel Planning: Plan Your Trip to Vienna

Public transport in vienna: tickets, prices, tips & transport types, guide to vienna schwechat airport [vie]: info, flight, transfer…, guide to arrival in vienna: travel, transfer & tickets, best sim card in austria for tourists, group travel support: m.i.c.e. services .

Full service planning for group trips, conferences and company events in Vienna.

Sleep Well in Vienna

Book Recommended Hotels for Your Stay in Vienna

Recommended Hotels

28 best 4-star hotels in the center of vienna [by rating], 22 good 3-star hotels in vienna [by rating], 21 best 5-star hotels in vienna [by rating], dining, nightlife and lifestyle.

From the Best Shopping Places to Recommended Restaurants and Trendy Clubs

Complete Vienna Lifestyle Guide

Vienna shopping guide: where, what and when to buy, vienna restaurant guide: dining, typical dishes, restaurants, vienna nightlife guide: bars, clubs & tips, special experiences.

Don't Miss Must-Do Experiences, Tours and Important Sightseeing in Vienna

Tours and Tickets

[email protected]

Contact Form

Blog and Influencer

Press, TV and Media

M.I.C.E. (Group Travel)

Things To Do

Plan Your Trip

Vienna Welcome Card

Airports in Vienna

Airport Transfer

Shopping Tips

With Children

Copyright 2024 Vienna Tourist Information , all rights reserved.

You are currently viewing a placeholder content from Instagram . To access the actual content, click the button below. Please note that doing so will share data with third-party providers.

Vienna Luxury Travel – A Complete Guide

Last Updated on March 18, 2024 by gregor

If you’re looking for a luxury travel experience in Vienna, you’ll find no shortage of options. With its stunning architecture, world-famous cuisine, and luxurious hotels, it’s no wonder that Vienna is considered one of the most beautiful cities in the world. From five-star hotels to world-class restaurants and museums, this city has something to offer everyone who enjoys the finer things in life.

In this guide, we’ll take a look at some of the best ways to enjoy Vienna’s luxury scene. So if you’re ready to live like a king or queen for a few days, read on for our complete guide to Vienna luxury travel.

Luxury Things To Do in Vienna

Experience a night at the opera.

Vienna is well known for its classical music and opera scene, so it would be a sin to visit the city and not experience at least one night at the Opera. Even if you’re not normally an opera fan, we can guarantee that you will be blown away by the grandiose productions, stunning costumes, and of course, the incredible singing. Tickets can be pricey, but if you book in advance or are lucky enough to snag a deal, then it’s definitely worth it.

Take a horse-drawn carriage Fiaker ride through the city center

One of the best ways to see Vienna is from a horse-drawn carriage – it’s like stepping back in time as you clip-clop your way around the city. On a cold winter’s day, there’s nothing more romantic than snuggling up under a blanket as you take in the sights and sounds of Vienna. A horse-drawn carriage is a great way to have a luxury experience while still getting to see some of what the city has to offer. You can find carriage rides near many of the major tourist attractions, or you can book a private tour with  Riding Dinner Fiaker Luxury Service .

Visit Vienna’s Christmas markets

Vienna’s Christmas markets are world-famous and for good reason! With over 20 different markets to choose from, there’s something for everyone. From traditional Austrian goodies like Lebkuchen (gingerbread) and Sachertorte (chocolate cake) to handmade gifts and decorations, you’ll find it all at the markets. And of course, no visit to a Christmas market would be complete without a mug of mulled wine! People from all over the world head to Austria each year to experience its Christmas markets, so make sure you put it on your list. Read more here: Vienna Top Christmas Markets Guide

Visit a Vienna coffeehouse

Vienna is famous for its coffeehouses, which are not just places to get a caffeine fix but are also important cultural institutions. A coffeehouse is a perfect place to watch people, read a book, or just take a break from sightseeing. Make sure to try a Vienna coffee – it’s stronger and more bitter than your average cup of joe. Read more about the Best Vienna Coffeehouses

Have afternoon tea at the Sacher Hotel

The Sacher Hotel is one of the most famous hotels in Vienna, and its afternoon tea is not to be missed. Delicious Viennese cakes and pastries are served with a pot of tea or coffee, making it the perfect pick-me-up after a morning of sightseeing! This is also a great opportunity to try local Austrian treats like the famous Sachertorte. After enjoying your afternoon tea, spend some time exploring the Sacher Hotel – it’s truly a luxury experience.  Cafe Sacher Wien

Attend a Viennese ball

If you’re visiting Vienna during the winter months, then you should definitely try to attend a ball. These lavish events are held in some of the city’s most iconic buildings, and they are a great opportunity to dress up in your finest clothes and dance the night away. Many balls also include dinner, so it’s a great way to experience the city’s famous cuisine. Ball season in Vienna, also called “the fifth season”, typically lasts from January to February. These balls are held by professional guilds and host people from all over the world who come to Vienna to take part in the festivities. Some of the most popular upcoming balls include The Vienna Opera Ball, the Confectioner’s Ball, and the Coffeemakers Ball – but there are so many more to choose from! If you’re looking for luxury Vienna activities, attending a ball should definitely be at the top of your list.

Take a wine tour through the vineyards

Austria is not just famous for its classical music and stunning architecture – it’s also known for its delicious wine. There are many vineyards located just outside of Vienna, and doing a tour is a great way to learn about the wine-making process as well as taste some of the best Austrian wines. Some of the most popular nearby wineries include Grinzing, Nussdorf, and Stammersdorf. Each of these wineries offers tours of the vineyards as well as tastings, so you can find one that best suits your interests. Read more about the Best Heuriger (Vine Taverns) in Vienna – Guide

Spend the night in style at Hotel Imperial

If you’re looking for a luxurious place to stay in Vienna, look no further than the Hotel Imperial Vienna. This 5-star property is located right in the heart of the city, and it offers stunning views of the Vienna Opera House. The rooms are decorated in a classic style, and they come with all of the modern amenities that you would expect from a luxury hotel. This luxury Vienna hotel was originally built as a private palace, so you’ll definitely feel like royalty during your stay! A stay at the Imperial Hotel will cost around 490 euros per night on average but could be more depending on the time of year and hotel availability.

Indulge in chocolate at Lindt Schweizer Maître Chocolatier

No trip to Vienna would be complete without indulging in some of the city’s famous chocolate! Lindt Schweizer Chocolatier is one of the best places to get your fix, and they offer a wide variety of delicious chocolate treats. From chocolate truffles to chocolate-covered fruit, there’s something for everyone at this Viennese institution. Lindt is a Swiss chocolatier that is world-renowned for its high-quality chocolate, truffles, and confectionery since 1845, and continues to be one of the leaders in the industry. You’re guaranteed to have a delicious experience! 

Enjoy a rooftop dinner at Le Loft

If you’re looking for a truly luxurious dining experience, then you should definitely make a reservation at Le Loft . This Michelin-starred restaurant is located on the roof of the Sofitel Vienna Stephansdom hotel, and it offers stunning views of the cityscape. The menu features French cuisine with an Austrian twist, and the food is absolutely exquisite. A meal at Le Loft will cost around 150 euros per person, but it is definitely worth it for the incredible experience.

Have a Spa day

What’s better than a relaxing spa experience after a long day of sightseeing? Vienna has many luxury spas to choose from, but our favorite is the Ritz-Carlton Spa at the Ritz-Carlton Vienna. This gorgeous spa features an indoor pool, saunas, and a variety of treatments that will leave you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. A day pass to the spa costs around 50 euros, but they also offer packages that include treatments and access to the spa facilities.

Stroll through Schönbrunn Palace

What better way to feel like royalty than by strolling through an actual palace? Schönbrunn Palace is one of Vienna’s most popular tourist attractions, and it’s easy to see why. This stunning palace was the former summer residence of the Austrian imperial family, and it is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The palace grounds are massive, and there is so much to explore. We recommend getting a ticket that includes a guided tour, as you will learn so much about the history of the palace and the Austrian imperial family. A ticket to Schönbrunn Palace costs around 22 euros, but they offer discounts for students and seniors. Read more in our Schönbrunn Palace Vienna Travel Guide

Recommended Luxury Tours in Vienna

Vienna city highlights private tour.

Want an exclusive tour of Vienna’s top attractions? This private Vienna highlights tour is the perfect way to see the city, and you’ll have a knowledgeable guide all to yourself. You’ll visit all of the must-see sights, including the Hofburg Palace, the Opera House, and St. Stephen’s Cathedral. The tour also includes a stop at a traditional Viennese coffee house, where you can enjoy a delicious cup of coffee and some pastries. The tour lasts for seven hours, and it costs around 300 euros per group.

Hidden Gems of Vienna Private Walking Tour

This private walking tour of Vienna will take you to some of Vienna’s hidden gems that are often overlooked by tourists. You’ll explore neighborhoods like the Jewish Quarter and get a taste of Viennese culture. The tour also includes stops at some of Vienna’s best cafes, restaurants, and bars, so you can experience the city like a local. The tour lasts for four hours, and it costs around 210 euros per group.

Private Tour of Melk, Hallstatt, and Salzburg from Vienna

Looking for a day trip from Vienna? This private day trip tour takes you to the picturesque towns of Melk and Hallstatt, as well as the city of Salzburg. You’ll explore the stunning Melk Abbey, which is one of Austria’s most iconic landmarks. You’ll also have free time to explore the charming town of Hallstatt before heading to Salzburg. The tour includes round-trip transportation from Vienna, and it costs around 220 euros per person.

Where to stay in Vienna for a luxury experience

Hotel sacher vienna.

The Hotel Sacher Vienna is one of the most iconic hotels in the city, and it offers visitors a truly luxurious experience. Located in the heart of Vienna, the hotel is just a short walk away from many of the city’s best attractions. The rooms are decorated in a classic style, and they offer stunning views of the city. The hotel also features an on-site spa, where you can enjoy a variety of treatments. A stay at the Hotel Sacher Vienna will cost around 450 euros per night on average but could be more depending on the time of year and hotel availability.

Palais Coburg Residenz

The Palais Coburg Residenz is another great option for luxury accommodation in the city. This beautiful palace-turned-hotel is located in the heart of Vienna, just a short walk away from many of the city’s best attractions. The rooms are lavishly decorated in a classic style, and they offer stunning views of the city. The hotel also features an on-site spa, indoor pool, and state-of-the-art fitness facilities. Each guest is greeted with a bottle of champagne, a basket of fresh fruit and chocolates, and a bouquet of flowers upon their arrival. It truly is a luxury Vienna experience that is worth the price! A stay at the Palais Coburg Residenz will cost around 760 euros per night on average but could be more depending on the time of year and hotel availability.

Ritz-Carlton Vienna

The Ritz-Carlton Vienna is a luxurious 5-star hotel located in the heart of Vienna. The rooms are decorated in a modern style, and they offer stunning views of the cityscape. The hotel also features an on-site restaurant, bar, and fitness center. If you’re looking for a modern but luxury Vienna hotel experience, then the Ritz-Carlton Vienna is the perfect choice for you. A stay at Ritz-Carlton Vienna will cost around 420 euros per night on average but varies depending on the time of year and hotel availability.

Final thoughts on luxury in Vienna

Vienna is a city that is rich in culture and history, and it offers visitors a truly unique experience. From horse-drawn carriage rides to attending a ball, there are plenty of ways to add a touch of luxury to your trip. And what could be more perfect than indulging in some delicious chocolate after a long day of sightseeing?

Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or a cultural adventure, Vienna is the perfect destination for a luxury travel experience. There are so many things to see and do in this beautiful city, and you’re sure to create memories that will last a lifetime.

We hope you enjoy your luxury Vienna experience!

More related Vienna Travel Blog Posts

WHAT TO BUY IN VIENNA: BEST 15 SOUVENIRS FROM VIENNA

WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT VIENNA, AUSTRIA

HOW MANY DAYS DO YOU NEED TO VISIT VIENNA?

THE BEST THINGS TO DO IN VIENNA WITH KIDS – FAMILY HOLIDAYS IN AUSTRIA

VIENNA SOLO TRAVELER TIPS – SOLO TRAVEL GUIDE VIENNA, AUSTRIA

BEST WAYS TO GET FROM VIENNA AIRPORT TO THE CITY CENTER

THE TOP AUTHENTIC VIENNESE EXPERIENCES YOU MUST ENJOY WHEN IN VIENNA, AUSTRIA

VIENNA BUDGET TRAVEL GUIDE, FREE THINGS TO DO IN VIENNA, AUSTRIA IN 2022

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

BEST LUXURY BOUTIQUE HOTELS IN VIENNA

Luxury Shopping in Vienna Guide (Stores, Map and Video Guide)

Best day and hotel spas in vienna – vienna spa guide.

Promotions apply when you purchase

These promotions will be applied to this item:

Some promotions may be combined; others are not eligible to be combined with other offers. For details, please see the Terms & Conditions associated with these promotions.

Buy for others

Buying and sending ebooks to others.

• Select quantity
• Buy and send eBooks
• Recipients can read on any device

These ebooks can only be redeemed by recipients in the US. Redemption links and eBooks cannot be resold.

Download the free Kindle app and start reading Kindle books instantly on your smartphone, tablet, or computer - no Kindle device required .

Read instantly on your browser with Kindle for Web.

Using your mobile phone camera - scan the code below and download the Kindle app.

Image Unavailable

• To view this video download Flash Player

VIENNA TRAVEL GUIDE 2024: A Pocketbook for Every Traveler to Explore the Gems of Austria’s Capital. Packed with Everything You Need for a Great Experience. Kindle Edition

With our comprehensive travel guide, you can finally put an end to your search and easily embark on a thrilling tour across Vienna's stunning landscapes. ◆ Whether you're a seasoned traveler or setting foot in Vienna for the first time, this comprehensive guide promises to unlock the city's hidden gems and must-see attractions, ensuring an experience you'll carry with you for years to come. ◆ From the splendid Schönbrunn Palace to the iconic Belvedere, each architectural masterpiece tells a story of power, intrigue, and artistic brilliance. But Vienna is not merely a relic of the past; it pulsates with a vibrant energy that manifests in its bustling cafes, lively markets, and world-class cultural institutions. Get ready to be swept away by the symphony of sights, sounds, and flavors that await you in this cultural playground. ◆ Beyond its storied history and architectural splendors, Vienna is a city of endless possibilities, where every corner reveals a new adventure. Delve into the musical heritage of Mozart, Beethoven, and Strauss as you wander through the cobblestone streets of the Innere Stadt, where echoes of classical melodies fill the air. ◆ Indulge your senses with a culinary journey through Viennese cuisine, from savory schnitzels to decadent sachertorte, each dish a testament to the city's gastronomic prowess. And for art aficionados, Vienna's museums and galleries offer a treasure trove of masterpieces, from the timeless works of Klimt and Schiele to contemporary exhibitions that push the boundaries of creativity. ◆ With insider tips, detailed maps, and expert recommendations, this indispensable guide will lead you on a seamless adventure through the heart of Europe. Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or an extended stay, this book equips you with everything you need to make the most of your time in this captivating city. Grab a copy now and get your travel plans started.

• Print length 92 pages
• Language English
• Sticky notes On Kindle Scribe
• Publication date April 30, 2024
• File size 276 KB
• Page Flip Enabled
• Word Wise Enabled
• Enhanced typesetting Enabled
• See all details

Product details

• ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0D33RGBDS
• Publication date ‏ : ‎ April 30, 2024
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
• File size ‏ : ‎ 276 KB
• Text-to-Speech ‏ : ‎ Enabled
• Screen Reader ‏ : ‎ Supported
• Enhanced typesetting ‏ : ‎ Enabled
• X-Ray ‏ : ‎ Not Enabled
• Word Wise ‏ : ‎ Enabled
• Sticky notes ‏ : ‎ On Kindle Scribe
• Print length ‏ : ‎ 92 pages

Customer reviews

Customer Reviews, including Product Star Ratings help customers to learn more about the product and decide whether it is the right product for them.

To calculate the overall star rating and percentage breakdown by star, we don’t use a simple average. Instead, our system considers things like how recent a review is and if the reviewer bought the item on Amazon. It also analyzed reviews to verify trustworthiness.

No customer reviews

• Amazon Newsletter
• About Amazon
• Accessibility
• Sustainability
• Press Center
• Investor Relations
• Amazon Devices
• Amazon Science
• Sell on Amazon
• Sell apps on Amazon
• Supply to Amazon
• Protect & Build Your Brand
• Become an Affiliate
• Become a Delivery Driver
• Start a Package Delivery Business
• Advertise Your Products
• Self-Publish with Us
• Become an Amazon Hub Partner
• › See More Ways to Make Money
• Amazon Visa
• Amazon Store Card
• Amazon Secured Card
• Amazon Business Card
• Shop with Points
• Credit Card Marketplace
• Reload Your Balance
• Amazon Currency Converter
• Your Account
• Your Orders
• Shipping Rates & Policies
• Amazon Prime
• Returns & Replacements
• Manage Your Content and Devices
• Recalls and Product Safety Alerts
• Conditions of Use
• Privacy Notice
• Consumer Health Data Privacy Disclosure
• Your Ads Privacy Choices