top tourist destinations in vienna

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

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

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

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

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

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

Explore Imperial Schönbrunn Palace and Gardens

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

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

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

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

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

Address: Schönbrunner Schloßstraße 47, 1130 Vienna, Austria

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

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

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

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

Address: Michaelerkuppel, 1010 Vienna, Austria

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Official site: www.khm.at/en/

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Address: Maxingstraße 13b, 1130 Vienna, Austria

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

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

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

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

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

Address: Albertinaplatz 1, 1010 Vienna, Austria

Official site: www.albertina.at/en

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

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

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

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

Address: Opernring 2, 1010 Vienna, Austria

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

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

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

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

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

Address: Stephansplatz 3, 1010 Vienna, Austria

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

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

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

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

Address: Burgring 7, 1010, Vienna, Austria

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Address: 1020 Vienna, Austria

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

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

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

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

Address: Michaelerplatz 1, 1010 Vienna, Austria

Official site: www.srs.at/en/

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

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

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

Address: Neuer Markt, 1010 Vienna, Austria

Official site: www.kapuzinergruft.com

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

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

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

Address: Museumsplatz 1, 1070 Wien, Austria

Official site: www.mqw.at/en/

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

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

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

Address: Petersplatz 1, 1010 Vienna, Austria

Official site: www.peterskirche.at

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

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

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

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

Address: Kohlmarkt 14, 1010 Vienna, Austria

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

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

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

Address: Kreuzherrengasse 1, Vienna, Austria

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

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

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

Address: Donauturmstraße 8, 1220 Wien, Austria

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

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

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

Address: Kegelgasse 36-38, 1030 Vienna, Austria

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Address: Universitätsring 2, 1010 Vienna, Austria

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

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

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

Address: Arsenal 1, 1030 Vienna, Austria

Official site: www.hgm.at/en

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

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

Address: Franziskanerplatz 4, 1010 Vienna, Austria

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

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

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

Address: Dorotheergasse 11, 1010 Vienna, Austria

Official site: www.jmw.at/en

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

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

Address: Berggasse 13, 1090 Vienna, Austria

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

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

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

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

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

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Vienna   Travel Guide

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18 Best Things to Do in Vienna, Austria

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

• All Things To Do

Hofburg Palace Hofburg Palace

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

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

Schönbrunn Palace Schönbrunn Palace

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

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

MuseumsQuartier Wien MuseumsQuartier Wien

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Leopold Museum Leopold Museum

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

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

Austrian National Library Austrian National Library free

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

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

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Museum Judenplatz Museum Judenplatz

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

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

Café Central Café Central

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

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

Naschmarkt Naschmarkt free

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Vienna's Tiergarten Vienna's Tiergarten

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

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

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

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

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

Burggarten Burggarten free

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

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

Spanish Riding School Spanish Riding School

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

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

Maria-Theresien-Platz Maria-Theresien-Platz free

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

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

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12 experiences that will show you the true Vienna

Jul 19, 2024 • 7 min read

Vienna’s storied coffeehouses, including Café Central, exemplify this cultured city. Giannis Papanikos / Shutterstock

With a millennium-long history, Vienna boasts ruins and relics, masterpiece-stuffed museums and grand palaces. 

It’s also a modern metropolis that’s consistently rated one of the world’s most liveable cities , visible throughout its gracious Bezirke (districts) and cutting-edge cultural attractions.

With an abundance of things to do in Vienna, here’s where to begin. 

1. Start at Stephansdom

Gothic and glorious, iconic Stephansdom and its 136m(446ft)-high Sorth Tower loom over the central Innere Stadt. While the church is free to enter, you’ll have to pay to get a close-up look at the Gothic masterworks in the central nave. An elevator whisks you up to the 21-ton Pummerin bell in the North Tower. You can also tackle the 343 steps up to the South Tower steps for views of the colorful mosaic roof tiles and sprawling city views. You’ll have a more somber experience in the subterranean Catacombs , an ossuary for those who perished during the Plague.

2. Tour the imperial complex at the Hofburg

 A show of imperial power through architecture, this 240,000-sq-m (2,583,338-sq-ft) castle complex is where the Habsburgs stacked up their endless collections of art and artifacts. The visit begins in the Sisi Museum and Imperial Apartments, then leads through a resplendent enfilade of 17 regal rooms, finishing in the frescoed, columned Prunksaal (State Hall of the Austrian National Library). Cabinets displaying the Austrian crown jewels dazzle in the Kaiserliche Schatzkammer , while the Weltmuseum teems with 250,000 anthropological objects amassed by curious royals. The castle’s most famous current residents are the majestic Lipizzaner stallions that regularly demonstrate breathtaking feats of equestrianism at the Spanish Riding School ’s baroque winter arena. Feeling blinged out? Take a cultural breather in the rose-laden Volksgarten or lounge on the Burggarten ’s lawns. 

Planning tip: The Hofburg sits on the Ringstrasse, a grand boulevard built after the city’s fortification walls were razed in 1850. A leisurely walk or a tram ride (lines 1 or 2) will reveal some of the city’s architectural highlights, including the neo-Renaissance Staatsoper , the Greek temple–like Austrian Parliament, the neo-Gothic Rathaus (City Hall) and the Renaissance-style University of Vienna.

3. Explore a museum wonderland 

Two institutional treasures sit next to the Hofburg, on Maria-Theresien-Platz: a symmetrical pair of grandly domed buildings that house the Naturhistorisches Museum Vienna and the Kunsthistorisches Museum . In these museums’ endless galleries, the collections span seven millennia. Browse meteorites and minerals; antiquities from ancient Egypt, Greece and Rome; precious and peculiar art finds in the Kunstkammer (cabinet of curiosities); and world-famous old-master paintings.

Just opposite, the MuseumsQuartier is a remarkable cultural district of some 11 exhibition spaces, occupying what was once the imperial stables. Two heavyweights bookend the courtyard: the Leopold Museum , with its 8300 works of Austrian modernism, and MUMOK , filled with expressive, experimental and avant-garde pieces.

Detour: The city’s more than 100 museums contain weird, wacky and wondrous displays. Think spots like the Funeral Museum at the Central Cemetery , museums celebrating everything from clowns to contraception , and even tours of the sewer system and the Spittelau waste-incineration plant .

4. Step into splendor at Schönbrunn Palace

Since stately Schloss Schönbrunn is Vienna’s most visited attraction, it pays to get on one of the first tours of the 45 opulent Rococo state rooms, dazzling ceremonial halls and sumptuous private apartments of the summer Habsburg residence and final home of Empress Elisabeth and Emperor Franz Joseph. You’ll emerge onto the grounds of the Schlosspark, still adorned with the palatial fountains, obelisks and hilltop triumphal arch Gloriette , commissioned by Maria Theresa. Founded in 1752 by her husband, Emperor Franz I Stephan von Lothringen, Schönbrunn’s Tiergarten is the oldest zoo in the world.

5. Admire the art at Schloss Belvedere

After he commissioned a new palace in 1723, connoisseur of the arts Prince Eugene of Savoy filled it to the brim with masterpieces. Some 50 years later, Empress Maria Theresa turned it into Vienna’s first public museum, the Imperial Picture Gallery. Three centuries on, Schloss Belvedere remains a baroque work of art in itself – and displays a collection of top-notch Austrian art from the Middle Ages to the present day. It’s also the home of Gustav Klimt’s world-famous The Kiss – just one highlight of the largest holdings of his work anywhere in the world. At Lower Belvedere , you can tour the home of the military-general prince, all marbled galleries, frescoed ceilings and gold-decked rooms. Belvedere’s free-to-enter parterre and baroque gardens are said to have been inspired by those of the Château de Versailles.

6. Step out at Prater Park

A former imperial hunting ground turned quintessential Vienna recreational space, the Prater is perhaps most popular for the giant Würstelprater amusement park. The 200 attractions here cover family-friendly rides, swinging adrenaline highs and the famed red Riesenrad (Ferris wheel). A new Prater museum displays historical objects related to the fairground dating back to its 1766 inception, while the Panorama Vienna exhibition revives the grandeur of the Vienna World Fair, held here in 1873.

7. Sample Vienna’s coffee culture

Vienna’s bentwood-chair-filled, wood-paneled and chandelier-lit living rooms, the famous cafes here really do have suited waiters and live music. They’re places you linger over a coffee, newspaper in hand, and people-watch for hours. Vienna’s coffeehouse culture has been brewing since the late 1600s – but where’s the best spot to find a cup of this UNESCO intangible cultural heritage ? You can’t go wrong at art deco Prückel , marbled Schwarzenberg and the cosmopolitan classic Landtmann , all Ringstrasse originals. Or sample the style spectrum from gilded and luminous Café Central to dusky and edgy Kaffee Alt Wien .

Local tip: Third-wave, new-generation coffee shops and specialty roasters are as much a fixture of the Vienna coffee scene as their traditional ancestors. Top picks in the central districts include Balthasar Kaffee Bar , Kaffeemik , CoffeePirates , The Good Coffee Society , GOTA Coffee Experts and Kaffeefabrik .

8. Sip and swirl in urban vineyards 

Encircled by 700 hectares (1730 acres) of vineyards , Vienna is the only European capital where wine is grown within the city limits. The picture-perfect hillside villages of the 19th (Döbling), especially Grinzing, are perfect for tasting both the white grape grüner veltliner, as well as Heuriger (wine tavern) culture. Can’t make it to the vineyard-covered fringes? In town,  10er Marie is the oldest Heuriger in Vienna, dating back to 1740. Ponder its history over a glass or two in its charming garden.

Local tip: On the last weekend of September, you can join locals for Wiener Weinwandertag (Vienna Wine Hiking Day), a ramble across the city’s vintners and vineyards. 

9. Meander through local outdoor markets

You’ll find it hard to find a district or neighborhood without a market and lineup of tasty pavilions at its heart. These gatherings are feasts for the senses, with samples to taste, smells to savor and the sounds of haggling lingering in the air. The city’s most popular bazaars are the 6th district’s Naschmarkt , which has 120 food stalls and a spirited Saturday flea market; the 170+ stalls representing cultures from around the world at Brunnenmarkt in the 16th; and culinary cornerstone Karmelitermarkt in the 2nd.

Local tip:  Lesser-known local markets are delightful, too. Vorgartenmarkt in the 2nd is a laid-back counterpart to the jostle of Karmeilitermarkt, while Kutschkermarkt in the 18th is a regional farmers market with an array of chic vendors.

10. Hike in the Vienna hills 

If you want to venture beyond the green capital’s manicured parks and landscaped lawns , choose one of the 12 signposted Stadtwanderweg (city hiking trails) that thread through the Vienna Woods, which surround the city.

Planning tip: Trail 1 tracks through vineyards to the near 500m(1640ft)-high Kahlenberg viewpoint, while number 9 takes you deeper into the expanse of Prater Park.

11. Relax on the Danube waterfront

When not at spectacular Alpine lakes, Viennese in the summer months can be spotted at riverside joints and sandbank hangouts along the beautiful Danube – which, thanks to centuries of engineering, has several local incarnations. Picnic on the promenade or kick back in a bar on the street-art-covered Danube Canal (Donaukanal). Snag a spot on the banks of the Old Danube (Alte Donau), a prime swimming locale – or head to the New Danube (Neue Donau) to grab a deck chair and cocktails at pop-up bar Copa Beach , and to get town to DJ-directed beats at Vienna City Beach Club . 

Local tip: Along the Danube Canal, the anchored boat Motto am Fluss and the urban beach bar and silent-disco spot Strandbar Herrman are both top choices.

12. Slide down the tallest building in Austria

Austria’s tallest structure, the 252m(827ft)-high Danube Tower (Donauturm) has been a staple of the Vienna skyline for 60 years. In addition to the panoramic viewing platform and restaurant, the tower has a new high-altitude thrill: you can now whoosh down to the viewing deck from a starting point of 165m (541ft) on Europe’s highest slide.

This article was first published May 13, 2019 and updated Jul 19, 2024.

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The 18 best things to do in Vienna

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

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

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

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

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

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

Best things to do in Vienna

1.  gaze at klimt’s famous painting ‘the kiss’.

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

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

2.  Walk the Ringstrasse

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

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

3.  Explore the MuseumsQuartier

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

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

4.  Check out the Sigmund Freud Museum

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

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

5.  Try Vienna’s signature cake

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

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

6.  Stroll through Hofburg Palace

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

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

7.  Hang out in the Neubau district

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

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

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

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

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

9.  Mooch around the Albertina Modern

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

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

10.  Dine in the world’s grandest greenhouse

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

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

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20 Exceptional Attractions in Vienna [with Map]

Are you looking for exciting attractions in Vienna?

Here we have compiled a list of the top 20 attractions that are interesting in both winter and summer.

In addition to popular highlights, we also have insider tips for you.

Let's begin!

Other Recommended Articles:

• Top 10 Things to Do in Vienna
• Best Recommended Hotels in Vienna
• Palaces in Vienna
• Best Restaurants in Vienna
• Shopping in Vienna
• Public Transport in Vienna

1. Prater & Vienna Ferris Wheel

A classic Viennese attraction is  Prater in Vienna with its Ferris wheel.  This Viennese landmark in the heart of the city provides ultimate fun , especially with  Wurstelprater amusement park,   which has been around since the early 19th century.

Be sure to take a ride on the iconic Vienna Ferris Wheel  and look out over the rooftops of Vienna.  Schweizerhaus serves typical Austrian cuisine and takes care of your physical well-being.

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

• Read more:   Guide to Vienna Giant Ferris Wheel
• Read more: The Prater Amusement Park in Vienna

Popular Ticket Options:

• Ticket Overview of Popular Giant Ferris Wheel Ride ( Recommended)
• Skip-the-cashier-desk-line Giant Ferris Wheel Ride tickets  
• Flexipass for 2, 3, 4 or 5 top sights (ride on Ferris Wheel selectable)
• Vienna PASS including ride on the Vienna Giant Ferris Wheel
• Ticket to Madame Tussauds in the Prater
• Ticket to the Chocolate Museum in the Prater with Chocolate Workshop and Free Tasting

2. Time Travel Vienna

At Time Travel Vienna, you are taken back to Vienna's fascinating past.  During a virtual journey through time of about 50 minutes, you can travel through Vienna's rich history at eight different stations. Thanks to the multimedia experience with special effects and innovative technology, the informative journey becomes an exciting history lesson that even children will be enthralled with.

Highlights include an original wartime air raid shelter, a 5D cinema and the Virtual Reality Music Ride  in Walzer Hall.  Time Travel Vienna, which is located in the historic vaults of Michaelerkloster in the center of Vienna, is a real highlight for the whole family.

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

3. Vienna Philharmonic C oncert

Anyone who visits Vienna, also known as the City of Music, should definitely attend a classical concert.  What would be better suited than one of the best orchestras in the world?! The Vienna Philharmonic  is one of the best in the world. The regular events offer the perfect setting to hear masterpieces of Viennese classicism by Mozart, Beethoven or Strauss in a breathtaking atmosphere.

At the Schönbrunn Summer Night Concerts, which takes place every year, you can even see the orchestra play for free against the picturesque backdrop of Schönbrunn Palace .

• Find more magnificent concert halls and renowned orchestras in our list of outstanding classical concerts in Vienna.
• Schönbrunn Palace: Mozart & Strauss Concert, Tour & 3-Course Dinner
• Tickets for Mozart concert in the Golden Hall of the Musikverein with the Vienna Mozart Orchestra dressed in traditional costume
• Tickets for Vivaldi's Four Seasons concert in Karlskirche (Bestseller)
• Tickets for Mozart and Strauss concert by renowned salon orchestra Alt Wien
• Tickets for Mozart and Strauss concert at Schönbrunn

Best Ticket Options:

• Tickets for classical concert at Mozarthaus
• Tickets for Vivaldi's Four Seasons concert at Karlskirche - St. Charles' Church
• Tickets for Vienna Mozart Orchestra at the Musikverein
• Tickets for Kursalon Vienna: Strauss and Mozart Concert
• Tickets for St. Anne's Church Vienna: Classical Concert

4. Vienna Heurigen Express

This attraction is not only a highlight for lovers, but also for families with children. During a romantic and relaxed ride on the Vienna Heurigen Express, you will be taken through picturesque wine villages, past idyllic vineyards and old winegrowers' houses. At the end of the trip you will experience a real Viennese Heurigen.

The route leads from the bus stop in Nussdorf via Kahlenberg to Grinzing and back to Nussdorf.  The hop-on/hop-off system offers the option of getting on and off at Kahlenberg or in Grinzing. The Express runs on Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays from the beginning of April to the end of October.

• Heurigen Cruise with Viennese Songs & Buffet   (recommended)
• Wachau Valley Day Tour from Vienna with Wine Tasting
• Half-day Countryside Wine Tour with Meal
• Wine and Bike Tour in the Wachau Valley with Wine Tasting & Train Transfer from Vienna
• Hidden Wine Cellars Tasting Experience
• Guided Wine Tasting in a Private Wine Cellar

5. Naschmarkt

Naschmarkt on the edge of Vienna's old town is a true foodie paradise!  At around 5 kilometers long, it is the largest inner-city market and one of the most popular attractions in Vienna. The must-see offers you a wide range of national and international gastronomic offers in an incomparable atmosphere.  The Naschmarkt is therefore also perfect for a gourmet tour. There is also a flea market on Saturdays at weekends.

• Read more: Complete Guide to Naschmarkt in Vienna
• Embark on an exciting Naschmarkt  Food Tasting Tour -   Book Your Guided Tour here!

6. Danube Tower & Danube Park

Austria's tallest building is an experience for young and old! The 252-meter-high Danube Tower on the edge of the Danube Park was built between 1962 and 1964. The Viennese landmark is a popular destination. On the viewing terrace, at a height of 150 meters, you can enjoy a breathtaking 360° panoramic view of the Austrian capital. You can indulge in culinary delights in the tower café at 160 meters or in the rotating tower restaurant at 170 meters.

As one of the largest parks in the city, the Donaupark also offers numerous attractions, children's playgrounds, climbing combinations, ball courts, gaming tables with chess boards and skater facilities.

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

7. Schönbrunn Zoo

As the oldest zoo in the world, Schönbrunn Zoo is one of the highlights of Vienna.  The zoo on the grounds of the famous Schönbrunn Palace was opened in 1752 by Emperor Franz I Stephan of Lorraine, Maria Theresa's husband, as an imperial menagerie.  Not only is it part of the Schönbrunn UNESCO World Heritage Site, it has also been named “Best Zoo in Europe” five times in a row.

An area of 17 hectares is home to 700 animal species, some of which are endangered. These include pandas, tigers, orangutans, polar bears, koalas and elephants. A train commutes between the zoo, the Emperor's breakfast pavilion, the elephant house and the Tyrolean Court.

• Read our complete  Guide about Schönbrunn Zoo to find out more about its highlights. 
• Ticket Overview of Schönbrunn Zoo
• Skip-the-Line Ticket for Schönbrunn Zoo:  Book here!   (Most popular option)
• Schönbrunn Children's Museum Tour with Zoo Option:  Buy now!
• Vienna PASS with free admission to Schönbrunn Zoo:  Buy here!
• Tickets for Tiergarten Schönbrunn: Zoo Skip The Line:   Book here in advance!

8. Museum of Illusions

This attraction is very popular with young and old! In the Museum of Illusions you can put your brain to the test. This interactive museum will amaze you with extraordinary illusions and exhibitions.  In addition to optical deceptions, illusions and holograms, you can also expect a rotating tunnel through which you can defy physical forces, as well as an anti-gravity room.

9. Spanish Riding School

The magic of the world-famous Lipizzaner, the oldest and most elegant horse breed in Europe, awaits you at the traditional Spanish Riding School .  During a visit to the "morning work," the daily morning training of the Lipizzaners, you can see these "dancing" horses train to classical music.  At the evening performances, which are very popular, you can marvel at a breathtaking equestrian spectacle.

The horsemanship of the Spanish Riding School has been part of UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage since 2015. T he Spanish Riding School is the only institution in the world that preserves old horsemanship traditions by dedicating itself to classic training and dressage of Lipizzaner horses, for 450 years.

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

10. House of Music

In the Haus der Musik sound museum in the  Palais Archduke Carl, children and adults can transform themselves into composers. The museum in the historic old town was opened in 2000. It presents the history of music in a multimedia and interactive way, starting with the first human musical instruments up to the present day. Here you not only learn more about the grandiose composers, you can become one yourself! Compose your own music and conduct the Vienna Philharmonic yourself. A sensational experience for young and old.

• Admission Ticket to Haus der Musik  

11. Maze, Labyrinth and Labyrinth Icon at Schönbrunn Palace

There is much more to the grounds of the picturesque Schönbrunn Palace than many visitors think.  In addition to the castle and zoo, a visit to the maze, the labyrinth and the labyrinth icon is an experience for the whole family.

Whoever finds the right way through the high hedges in the maze will be rewarded with a viewing platform. In the labyrinth  opposite, a bridge has to be crossed and a hall of mirrors provides a lot of fun.  The Labyrinthikon has various playgrounds for running around and playing, including a climbing frame, a hall of mirrors, a large xylophone and a water playground.

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

12. Palm House & Butterfly House

Palmenhaus  is a unique place is hidden in the middle of Vienna.  The Art Nouveau influenced steel glass construction was commissioned by Emperor Franz Joseph in 1882 and is one of the largest of its kind in the world. In the green oasis there are three pavilions where you can admire Mediterranean, tropical and subtropical plants.

Here you can also visit the Butterfly House , a butterfly zoo that takes you to the tropics.  With a humidity of about 80% and a temperature of about 26 degrees, you can explore the colorful world of butterflies. Around 400 tropical butterflies flying freely represent 150 different species.

After your walk,  Café Palmenhaus offers the perfect place to take a breather. Enjoy a coffee and homemade pastries in a unique ambience surrounded by exotic plants. The sun terrace offers a magnificent view of the castle garden.

13. Hohe Wand Nature Park

Hohe Wand Nature Park in the Gutenstein Alps in Lower Austria is about an hour from Vienna. With its animal and natural world, it is the perfect destination for nature lovers, sports enthusiasts and families.  From a llama and alpaca hike to the "Skywalk Hohe Wand" viewing terrace, numerous experiences and activities are offered in the park. In winter, the park also offers ski courses for beginners.

14. House of the Sea

An adventurous journey into foreign animal and plant worlds awaits you in the House of the Sea .  About 10,000 tropical and native animals and plants are presented on more than 4000 square meters, spread over ten floors. In addition to Austria's largest aquarium, there is a glass tunnel that you can walk through and the "Brandungsriff" adventure aquarium. Haus des Meeres is housed in an anti-aircraft tower from World War II.

15. Vienna State Opera

The Vienna State Opera is one of the most important international opera houses and a symbol of the city.  The world-famous opera house in Neo-Renaissance style impresses with its magnificent architecture. It was inaugurated on May 25, 1869 with a premiere of Mozart's Don Giovanni .  The State Opera is also known for the Vienna Opera Ball, which takes place here every year. With its sensational interior, it offers the perfect setting for an unforgettable experience. The diverse program, which consists of 60 different operas and ballets per season, promises the finest musical enjoyment.

16. Zeiss Planetarium

Visitors of all ages can take an exciting journey through the world of astronomy in Zeiss Planetarium.  The journey through the starry sky lets you look into the infinite worlds of space. You are invited to dream and gaze at the stars, be it with multimedia shows or with special programs for children and families.

17. Dschungel Vienna

Dschungel  Vienna in the Museums Quarter deals with the performing arts.  The ensemble includes artists from more than 20 nations. As a theater for children, teenagers and young adults, it is aimed at people aged 0-20 with various events.  Each season, 60 productions are realized and played in over 500 performances. The program is supplemented by various workshops.

18. Viennese Heurige

Heurige is a Viennese institution and an important part of Viennese eating and drinking culture.  Young wine  is served in a wine bar called   Heurige , . The name of the wine has its origin in the word Heuer , which means  this year .  A real Viennese Heurigen can be recognized by a pine bush above or on the door. In addition to local wines, regional dishes are also served. A particularly large number of wine taverns can be found in the Vienna area, for example in Nussdorf Heiligenstadt, Sievering and in Grinzing.  An evening in one of the wine taverns , which are characterized by a rustic and cozy atmosphere, should not be missed during your trip to Vienna.

19. Danube Cruises

A Danube cruise is a great experience for young and old. It's one of the most leisurely and enjoyable ways to explore Vienna. During a wonderful trip through the Danube Canal, you can enjoy the imperial city from the water and relax at the same time. Alternatively, you can go on a tour of the Wachau, which is very popular with the Viennese themselves.

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

20. Madame Tussauds Vienna

This branch of Madam Tussauds wax museum has been delighting visitors of all ages since 2011.  It is located in Vienna's well-known amusement park,  Wiener Prater .   Get up close and personal with international stars, personalities from Austrian history such as Emperor Franz and Sisi and stars from the music industry such as Falko and Mozart.  The highlight for many visitors is the interactive Sisi world of experience.

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

Here's how locals recommend exploring Austria's capital city.

StockFrame/Getty Images

Vienna (or “Wien” in German) is Austria's culture-rich capital, boasting world-class museums, Baroque architecture, and an impressive classical music legacy that nurtured greats like Mozart and Beethoven. Iconic experiences include exploring magnificent palaces, an evening at the Vienna State Opera, and tapping into Viennese coffeehouse culture.

Tina Haselbacher, the owner of Almanac Hotels , describes Vienna as “a place where tradition meets the contemporary.” While the city is visually defined by its historic structures, as Haselbacher explains, behind these traditional facades you'll find modern art and cutting-edge culinary innovations. To discover both sides of Vienna, fill your itinerary with a combination of old and new — a stop at Hofburg Palace followed by an afternoon exploring Kunsthalle Wien in the MuseumsQuartier, for example. Read on to discover the best things to do in Vienna, according to locals. 

Top 5 Can’t Miss

• Schöenbrunn Palace is a stunning UNESCO World Heritage Site and perhaps the most famous attraction in Vienna.
• The MuseumsQuartier showcases the city's contemporary creativity through music, theater, dance, street art, literature, photography, and more.
• Meat eaters shouldn't leave Vienna without tasting Wiener schnitzel, the city's signature dish.
• Vienna is the "City of Music," and the grand State Opera is the best place to see classical performances.
• The Ringstrasse is a boulevard packed with historical sites and museums.

Visit the famed Schönbrunn Palace.

Alisha McDarris/Travel + Leisure

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

Spend a few hours in the MuseumsQuartier.

Ursula Schmitz/Travel + Leisure

Home to 60 cultural institutions, the MuseumsQuartier is a vast hub of Viennese creativity. Here, you’ll find the Leopold Museum , the MUMOK (Museum of Modern Art Ludwig Foundation Vienna), and the contemporary exhibition space Kunsthalle Wien . If you’re interested in architecture, music, theater, dance, street art, literature, photography, or all of the above, you’ll find something interesting in the MuseumsQuartier.

Fill up on Wiener schnitzel.

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

Attend a performance at the Vienna State Opera.

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

Walk along the Ringstrasse.

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

Enjoy a slow morning at a coffeehouse.

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

Stop by St. Stephen's Cathedral.

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At its tallest point, St. Stephen’s Cathedral reaches about 450 feet, making it the tallest church in Austria and one of the most recognizable sights in Vienna. Visiting the main entrance is free, but you’ll need to purchase a ticket to see the cathedral in its entirety. You can take the stairs or an elevator to the top, where Wolfgang Rigon says the view "is highly recommended in good weather."

Snap a photo of the Majolikahaus.

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

Take a dip in the Krapfenwaldlbad swimming pool.

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

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

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

Learn about Vienna’s Jewish history.

Courtesy of the Jewish Museum Vienna

With an emphasis on the time period encompassing the two World Wars, the Jewish Museum Vienna educates visitors on Jewish history, culture, and religion. The institution's two locations, Museum Dorotheergasse and Museum Judenplatz, are within a 10-minute walk of each other and a single ticket grants you access to both. The latter is home to the Judenplatz Holocaust Memorial, designed by British artist Rachel Whiteread and honoring the Austrian victims of the Holocaust.

Indulge in a slice of Sachertorte.

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Sachertorte, which Gigl calls “the world’s most storied cake," should be on your must-try list while in Vienna. Invented in the 19th century by pastry chef Franz Sacher, Sachertorte is a rich chocolate sponge cake made with layers of apricot jam and a chocolate ganache topping. Café Demel and Café Sacher have had a rivalry over the treat for centuries, so you may need to try both and see which one you prefer.

Relax in Vienna’s green spaces.

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

Explore the art collection at the Belvedere Museum.

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There’s a good chance art aficionados will already be familiar with the Belvedere Museum , which the Rigons describe as a “beautiful Baroque palace with an even more impressive garden.” It has the biggest collection of Gustav Klimt works, and Haselbacher adds that "the architecture is really special." The Klimt collection includes the artist's most famous piece, “The Kiss.”

Eat lunch at a würstelstand.

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Würstelstands (sausage stands) are a longtime fixture of the Vienna street scene, serving a variety of sausages, beer, and other snacks. You’ll find them all over Vienna, but Würstelstand Leo is said to be the city’s oldest, established in the late 1920s. Order the käsekrainer — a sausage filled with small chunks of cheese.

Shop in Vienna’s two remaining street markets.

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

Dive into Habsburg history at Hofburg Palace.

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

Round out your meal with a Punschkrapfen.

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

Make a reservation at Palmenhaus.

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

Visit the history-filled Kunsthistorisches Museum.

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

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25 Top Tourist Attractions in Vienna

By Alex Schultz · Last updated on May 4, 2024

One of the most visually stunning cities in Europe, Vienna is full of wonderful art and architecture, with countless museums, palaces, and elegant parks testifying to its wealth and beauty.

Both the capital and culture center of the country, Vienna was once the seat of the Hapsburg dynasty; the Emperors and Empresses were great patrons of the arts, sciences, and music. As such, there are loads of amazing art collections to explore.

Visiting the Vienna State Opera to watch a performance is simply a must when in the city, as Vienna is synonymous with famous composers such as Beethoven, Strauss, and Schoenberg.

A great and easy way to see many of the most famous tourist attractions in Venice in one go is to wander along the Ringstrasse taking in all the fantastic buildings as you go, before heading into the center of the city itself.

It is a city that represents refinement and culture to visitors, who will not lack for things to see and do:

25. State Hall (of the Austrian National Library)

Built in the eighteenth century, the stunning State Hall of the Austrian National Library needs to be seen to be believed; a wonderful statue of Emperor Charles VI, who commissioned it, stands at its center.

A delightful dome with fantastic frescoes lies above, and countless old tomes and books line the shelves; wonderfully carved wooden handrails, columns and banisters complete the refined look of the place.

A veritable feast for the eyes, the State Hall is definitely worth stopping by when in Vienna – you can almost feel the wealth of knowledge emanating from the bookshelves.

24. Naschmarkt

The most popular market in Vienna, the Naschmarkt is fun to wander around. Its plethora of stalls, stands, and shops sell everything from spices and vegetables to seafood, meats, and clothes. Trawling the lively market is a lovely way to spend the afternoon.

Several cafes and restaurants here offer up Viennese classics, with Kaiserschmarrn and Palatschinken being particularly popular amongst tourists and locals alike. A great place to buy either souvenirs or fresh fruit and vegetables; the Naschmarkt has it all.

23. Parliament Building

Located on the Ringstrasse, the elegant Parliament Building was built in Greek Revival style. It is here that the Austrian Parliament holds its sessions.

Classic Greek architecture was decided upon due to democracy’s link with Ancient Greece; its brilliantly white columns and marvelous bronze statues are wonderful to behold, while the lovely Pallas Athene Fountain stands in the foreground of the building. One of the most popular tourist attractions in Vienna, the Parliament Building is well worth visiting for its spectacular design and importance to the country.

22. Kaiserliche Schatzkammer

The Imperial Treasury is located at Hofburg Palace and its extensive collection of valuable treasures is dazzling. Its twenty-one rooms cover 1000 years of history. Among its many highlights are the Imperial Crown of Austria and the Imperial Crown of the Holy Roman Empire.

Divided into a secular and ecclesiastical collection, the crowns, scepters, and jewelry of the Kaiserliche Schatzkammer invariably astound visitors with the opulence and decadence on display.

21. Peterskirche

St. Peter’s Church (as it is known in English) is located on Petersplatz; numerous churches have existed on the site, with the earliest dating back to the Early Middle Ages. The current baroque church was completed in 1733 and is modeled on St. Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican. While the interior is pretty, the undoubted highlight is its stunning interior, with its wonderful frescoes.

The pulpit, organ, and altar feature equally delightful artistry. What makes the church particularly great to visit is that it is largely hidden away behind the surrounding buildings and appears majestically before you as if out of thin air.

20. KunstHausWien

Designed by esteemed architect and artist Friedensreich Hundertwasser, the KunstHausWien is mesmerizing to behold due to its eclectic exterior – sure to look unlike anything you’ve ever seen before; straight lines hardly feature at all.

The interior is equally bewitching to wander around with its undulating floors, and Hundertwasser’s art pieces are fascinating for their unique look and design. Temporary exhibitions mean that many local residents return time and time again to this special museum.

19. Stadtpark

Bordering the Ringstrasse, the large Stadtpark is divided in two by the Vienna River running through it. The park is a relaxing spot to head to if you’ve had enough sightseeing for one day. With numerous statues and monuments of renowned Viennese scattered about, visitors will come across such famous figures as the composer Strauss and the painter Schindler amidst the greenery on show.

Alongside the plethora of fauna and flora, a children’s park, concert hall and landscaped gardens make it well worth stopping by.

18. Stephansplatz

Located at the heart of the city, Stephansplatz is one of the most important squares in Vienna. The center of the square is dominated by the enormous St. Stephen’s Cathedral, which towers to an impressive 136 meters. The mix of old and new architectural styles on show in Stephansplatz is dazzling.

With lots of shops, restaurants, and bars on offer nearby, as well as many attractions, most visitors to the city pass through at some point for the myriad of things that it has to see and do.

17. Naturhistorisches Museum

Vienna’s Natural History Museum is one of the most important of its kind in the world and is remarkably home to over 30 million objects.

The 39 exhibition rooms cover everything from precious stones and dinosaurs to prehistoric art and stuffed animals. Visitors will learn a lot from its fascinating displays and exhibits. Just as stunning as the extensive collection is the beautiful palace itself, featuring elegant galleries, staircases, and lobbies. Built in the late nineteenth century, the Natural History Museum is located on the Ringstrasse and is identical to the Kunsthistorisches Museum which lies directly in front of it.

16. MuseumsQuartier

An intriguing place to visit, the MuseumsQuartier boasts an intoxicating mix of art, architecture, culture, and leisure; one could spend a lifetime exploring all that it is has to offer. The beautiful buildings are home to numerous museums, artist studios, and cultural initiatives, while the exhibitions and festivals that it hosts draw yet more people to the complex.

With renowned art museums such as the Leopold Museum and the Kunsthalle Wien lying next to the Tanzquartier dance center and the Q21 artist’s group, MuseumsQuartier has a plethora of things for visitors to see and do.

15. Karlskirche

This wonderful baroque church is widely considered to be amongst the city’s most impressive buildings. Consequently, a visit to Karlskirche is a must when in Vienna.

Its beautiful dome is flanked by two columns and the dazzling white facade is adorned with angels from both the Old and New Testaments. Inside is just as fabulous, with a marvelous fresco covering the ceiling and an ornate altar and elegant canopy sitting alongside the towering marble columns. Commissioned by Emperor Charles VI, Karlskirche was completed in 1737 and dominates the huge Karlsplatz on which it lies.

Prater is a large public park located in Leopoldstadt. Its huge green spaces make it a popular spot among locals and tourists alike. While many people visit to relax and unwind amongst the greenery, an amusement park, museum, and even a disco are situated within the park.

While wandering around the park, make sure to take a ride in the huge Ferris Wheel that towers over Prater – the views are breathtaking.

13. Kunsthistorisches Museum

Opened by Emperor Franz Josef I in 1891, the stupendous Museum of Art History (as it is known in English) is located on the Ringstrasse in a magnificent palatial building that dominates its surroundings.

The museum was established to house the Hapsburg’s extensive art collection, and the lavish interior is befitting of all of the wonderful masterpieces on show. Exploring the endless galleries is fascinating, and the list of renowned artists rolls off the tongue as you pass works by Caravaggio, Tintoretto, van Dyck, Raphael, Rembrandt, and Rubens.

12. Albertina

Located in Vienna’s Innere Stadt, the Albertina hosts an amazing collection of artworks, including drawings, paintings, and sculptures.

Once part of the city’s old fortifications, the Albertina has stood since the 17th century and was renovated into a palace before becoming an art museum. Home to one of the most extensive and important print rooms on Earth, the collection is wonderful to explore. Masterpieces by da Vinci, Bruegel the Elder and Toulouse-Lautrec are on display.

In addition to its delightful permanent collection, temporary exhibitions ensure that this is a place worth returning to for both locals and tourists.

11. Vienna State Opera

No visit to Vienna is complete without going to see an opera. The city is synonymous with the majestic art form and the Vienna State Opera is the perfect place to go and watch a performance.

Opened in 1869 on the Ringstrasse, much of the opera house was destroyed by a bomb during the Second World War and it was rebuilt in 1955 in the form of the elegant high Renaissance building we see before us today. The interior is equally opulent, with its marble staircases, luxurious lobbies and the breathtaking auditorium itself.

With numerous operas, ballets and classical concerts being performed daily, the Vienna State Opera has something for everyone to enjoy.

10. Wiener Rathaus

The Wiener Rathaus isn’t a place where visitors can eat wieners, though a notable restaurant serving Vietnamese delicacies is located on the premises. Rather, it serves as Vienna’s town hall, as well as the seat of government for the State of Vienna.

The Gothic-style building, constructed in the 1880s, features the Rathausmann that sits on top of the tower and is a symbol of Vienna. The Wiener Rathaus is currently undergoing an extensive renovation that is expected to be completed in 2023.

9. Spanish Riding School

The Spanish Riding School is a traditional riding school for Lipizzan horses that offers public performances in the Winter Riding School in the Hofburg. The Riding School calls these performances classical dressage, but most viewers would call it magic.

The school has been training horses like this for more than four centuries. The 68 stallions – their ancestors came from Spain – have trained and performed at the Winter Riding School since about 1735. Horses and riders both undergo special training that lasts for many years.

Graben is one of the most famous streets in central Vienna. The word Graben means “trench” in German, and dates back to an old Roman encampment in the Austrian capital. Back in those days, Vienna was surrounded by a city wall, with a trench alongside of it.

The trench was later filled in and became one of the first residential streets in Vienna. Craftsmen originally lived in wooden houses on the Graben, but it gradually evolved into a market place and later residences for the city’s elite. Today it is an up-scale shopping promenade, with many local specialties such as Wien Porzellan.

7. St Stephen’s Cathedral

St. Stephen’s Cathedral, also known as Stephansdom, had humble beginnings as a parish church in the 12th century. Today, it is the home church for the Catholic archbishop in Vienna. The church was destroyed in World War II but was rebuilt in seven years, with worship services still held daily.

The cathedral, one of the city’s most important landmarks, reaches high into the Viennese skyline. Its impressive roof is covered by 230,000 glazed tiles. The cathedral has more than 18 altars, all built at different times, and contains precious works of art as well.

6. Burggarten

The Burggarten is a once-royal garden that is a bit of England in Vienna, as it is patterned after English gardens. The Burggarten was the court garden for the Hapsburg rulers. One Austrian ruler, Kaiser Franz II used to work in the garden, which is now a place where people can enjoy outdoor lunches on pleasant days.

A memorial to that great Austrian composer, Mozart, can be found in one corner of the garden, while the Palmenhaus, a magnificent glass palm house, is located in the northern part. The left part of the Palmenhaus houses the Schmettlerlinghaus where visitors can see tropical butterflies and even bats.

5. Ringstrasse

The Ringstrasse is a road, slightly more than 5 km (3 miles) long, that circles Vienna’s inner city. Ordered built by Emperor Franz Joseph in the mid-19th century, many of the most important buildings in Vienna line both sides of the street: palaces, museums and stately homes.

Buildings along the road include the State Opera, the Natural History Museum, City Hall and the Vienna Stock Exchange. The buildings represent various architectural styles, and are all considered architectural masterpieces. Construction of the Ringstrasse started in 1857, with the street opening in 1865.

4. Belvedere

The Belvedere is an integral part of Vienna’s historic scene, consisting of several palaces and an orangery that dates back to the late 17th century. It consists of the Baroque palaces, the Lower and Upper Belvedere; palace stables and the Orangery, all set in a Baroque-style park. Prince Eugene of Savoy had the complex built for this summer home.

During the French Revolution, the palaces served as home to French royalty fleeing their country. The Belvedere is stunning to look at during the night when it is all lit up, and well as provides great views of Vienna.

3. Hundertwasserhaus

The Hundertwasserhaus is a colorful apartment building near Vienna’s center in the Landstraße district. It is named after Austrian artist Friedensreich Hundertwasser who developed the concept in the 20th century, with noted architect Krawina doing the building’s design.

Each of the 52 apartments is a different color; some just out from the building proper, with several trees covering the roofs, while more trees grow inside other units, their limbs sticking out windows. Construction on the innovative apartment building ended in 1985; today, it is an intrinsic part of Vienna’s cultural heritage.

2. Hofburg Imperial Palace

The Hofburg Imperial Palace has played an integral part of the Austrian government scene since it was built in the 13th century. It has been home to some of Europe’s most powerful royalty over the centuries, including the Hapsburgs and rulers of the Holy Roman and Austro-Hungarian empires.

Today it is a museum and home to the president of Austria. The palace has numerous wings and halls built by various royalty over the centuries, but only three parts are open to the public today: the Imperial Apartments; the Sisi Museum, dedicated to Elizabeth, wife of Emperor Franz Joseph, and the Silver Collection, a collection of Imperial household objects.

24. Schonbrunn Palace

The 1,441 room Schönbrunn Palace, comparable in grandeur to Versailles, is one of the major tourist attractions in Vienna. The palace was built between 1696 and 1712 at the request of Emperor Leopold I and turned into the imperial summer palace by Maria Theresa.

The Palace Park offers a lot of attractions, such as the Privy Garden, the oldest zoo in the world, a maze and labyrinth, and the Gloriette, a marble summerhouse, situated on top of a 60 meter (200 feet) high hill.

Map of Tourist Attractions in Vienna

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

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

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

You’re at the right place!

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

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

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

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

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

Let’s find out!

1. Schönbrunn Palace

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

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

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

Here’s what’s included:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best things to do in Vienna at night

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

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

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

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

On your walk through the gardens you’ll see:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The visit is included in the Vienna Pass .

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

There’s also an option with lunch included :

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The prices are often lower than for the Staatsoper.

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

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

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

You’re going to Vienna?

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

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

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

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

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

And if you see a good offer, book it!

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

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

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

Still wondering what to do in Vienna ?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

This is the must-visit museum in Vienna!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Entry is included with the Vienna Pass.

You also have the possibility to:

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

Next on this Vienna guide is Mozart’s house.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

They’ll even meet you directly at your accommodation!

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

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

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

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

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

Fancy a bit of shopping in Vienna ?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Book this 2.5-hour tour directly by clicking here!

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

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

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

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

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

The Hundertwasserhaus is an unusual sight to visit in Vienna .

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

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

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

The building is located at 37-39 Kekelgasse Street .

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

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

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

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

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

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

Entry is free with your Vienna Pass .

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

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

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

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

Best things to do around Vienna

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

In Graz, I suggest you visit:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Book your Vienna city pass using the button below:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

But that was before 😉.

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

All you have to do is click the button below :

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

You’re using Pinterest? Here is the picture to pin!

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

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Discussion 2 comments.

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

Hello Thomas,

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

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

Enjoy your trip to Vienna!

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

15 Best Things to Do in Vienna (Austria)

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

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

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

1. Schönbrunn Palace

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

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

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

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

2. Hofburg Palace

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

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

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

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

3. St Stephen’s Cathedral

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

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

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

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

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

4. Schonbrunn Gardens

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

6. Tiergarten Schonbrunn (Vienna Zoo)

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

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

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

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

Tip : The Vienna Zoo is included in the Vienna PASS

7. Belvedere Museum

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

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

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

8. Vienna State Opera

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

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

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

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

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

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

9. Vienna Natural History Museum

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

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

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

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

10. Prater Amusement Park

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

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

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

11. The Spanish Riding School

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

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

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

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

Available activity : Spanish Riding School 2-Hour Morning Exercise

12. Donauturm (Viewing tower)

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

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

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

13. Naschmarkt

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

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

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

14. Vienna Ring Road

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

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

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

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

15. Vienna Woods

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

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

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

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

15 Best Things to Do in Vienna (Austria):

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

• 20 Unmissable Attractions In Vienna

26 Must-Visit Attractions in Vienna, Austria

Famous for its classical music and opera, Vienna is home to spectacular architecture and rich cultural offerings with an undeniable charm. Brimming with ornate palaces, traditional coffee houses, art galleries and museums, the city is the jewel in Austria’s crown.

This former seat of the Austro-Hungarian Empire boasts spectacular buildings in various architectural styles, ranging from Baroque to Art Deco and the colourful, modern Hundertwasserhaus. Experience the beauty of the city, while staying at one of its best hotels , with Culture Trip’s guide to the must-visit attractions in Vienna.

Belvedere Palace

Golden Hall

Concert Hall, Building

One of Vienna’s most respected concert halls, the Golden Hall invites guests to a two-hour concert by local and international opera singers. Here, you’ll be able to listen to the likes of Mozart and Strauss performed by the Vienna Mozart Orchestra in a 19th-century Neoclassical building.

Historic coffee houses

Coffee Shop, Restaurant, Austrian

St Stephen’s Cathedral

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Schönbrunn Palace

Amusement Park, Park

The Prater is perhaps best known for its iconic Ferris wheel, which has featured in films such as Before Sunrise (1995), The Third Man (1949) and James Bond’s The Living Daylights (1987). Built in 1897, the historic Riesenrad offers sweeping views over Vienna. If the funfair rides and attractions of the Prater amusement park do not appeal, nearby are acres of woods and meadows with many hiking trails, bike paths, cafés, sporting facilities and playgrounds. The five-kilometre (three-mile) tree-lined Hauptallee route through the Prater is particularly popular with joggers and cyclists.

Kunsthistorisches Museum

Library, Museum

Spanish Riding School

Dazzling white Lipizzaner horses are famous around the world for their balletic performances to classical music. Dressage performances take place in Vienna’s Spanish Riding School , located in the glamorous setting of the Hofburg, the former principal imperial palace of the Hapsburgs. In the morning, watch as the horses exercise to build up their strength to perform pirouettes and jumps at the afternoon performances.

Natural History Museum

Hundertwasserhaus.

Building, Museum

For a complete change of scenery from Habsburg grandeur, visit Vienna’s Hundertwasserhaus near the Danube Canal in the 3rd district. Designed by the eccentric and visionary Austrian architect Friedensreich Hundertwasser , this colourful, undulating social housing development has a forest of trees planted on its roof and barely a straight line in sight. Nearby is the Museum Hundertwasser , where you can find out more about Hundertwasser’s work, philosophy and beliefs, from art and architecture to environmentalism.

Danube Tower

Building, Park

Sigmund Freud Museum

Stroll around in Vienna’s 9th district until you reach Berggasse 19, the former house and office of Sigmund Freud. Giving a glimpse into the Austrian neurologist’s life, the museum houses original furnishings throughout the various rooms. Existing exhibits showcase Freud’s work, including signed copies and first editions.

Austrian National Library

A visit to Vienna’s famous Naschmarkt is a must for both food lovers and those interested in Secessionist architecture. The outdoor market features a lively collection of over 100 stalls selling an array of spices, meats, dried and fresh fruits, cheese and many other delicacies. Dating back to the 16th century, the market is surrounded by gorgeous buildings of the Secessionist movement, including Otto Wagner’s Majolica and gold-leaf houses.

Haus des Meeres

Aquarium, Architectural Landmark

Housed in a World War II flak tower in the hip Mariahilf district, Vienna’s Haus des Meeres aquarium offers you the chance to see the city from its viewing platform. A staggering 10,000 sea and land animals are housed within 11 stories of the building, with examples of coral reef, Amazon rainforest and tropical habitats. As the largest aquarium in Austria, it’s home to monkeys, birds, crocodiles and more, as well as sharks swimming in a 300,000-litre (79,252-gallon) pool.

Leopold Museum

Albertina museum.

For a stunning collection of Modernist art in a former Habsburg palace, visit the Albertina Museum to view the world-renowned Batliner Collection, which features artists such as Monet, Degas, Cézanne, Toulouse-Lautrec and Gauguin, as well as Picasso’s early Cubist works. Located in the beating heart of the 1st district, the Albertina is home to one of the world’s most impressive graphic art collections and has 20 staterooms spread across two floors.

Library, Park

Vienna State Opera

Opera House

Schönbrunn Zoo

Haus wittgenstein.

For something less well known, Attilia Fattori Franchini – an independent curator who moved to the city in 2018 – suggests visiting Haus Wittgenstein, a Bulgarian cultural centre that hosts exhibitions featuring artists from both Bulgaria and other Eastern European countries. For more contemporary art in Vienna, Franchini recommends young, experimental galleries such as Felix Gaudlitz, Croy Nielsen, Emanuel Layr and Gianni Manhattan. For even more galleries in the city, she suggests searching the Independent Space Index website. “It’s a fantastic resource for places you would otherwise only know about through word of mouth,” she says. Recommended by Valeriya Safronova .

Hermannskogel Hill

The extensive green space on the outskirts of Vienna is both beautiful and easily accessible. Hop on the overground train from the city centre, and you will reach Vienna’s surrounding hills in less than an hour. Alternatively, start your outdoor adventure in the city by renting a bike and embark on a cycling trip to reach the hills. “It’s easy to escape the big city,” says Vienna-based writer Mira Nograsek, who recommends following one of the hikes that the city has mapped out. Her favourite is a 10-kilometre (6.2-mile) route that starts in Sievering and goes on a circular walk that takes in the highest point in Vienna – Hermannskogel hill – and scenic viewpoints, with recommended places to eat along the way. “It starts in a very old, rural area of Vienna,” Nograsek explains. “You have awesome views of the city, and you pass by a lot of traditional restaurants where you can drink a beer or eat a schnitzel”. Recommended by Valeriya Safronova.

Danube Island

The Donauinsel, or Danube Island, stretches for 42km (26mi) and is easily reachable from Vienna’s city centre by bike or public transport. It’s particularly popular in the summer and spring months, when residents swim in the river, sunbathe on platforms that float on the water (some of which are nudist) and picnic on the grass. Cars are banned on the Donauinsel, so visitors can also bike or rollerblade safely on trails that run the whole length of the island. “There’s an ice-cream truck that passes every half hour, so you can get ice cream or buy a cold beer,” says Nograsek. “In June, it has a big open-air music festival. It’s one of the biggest free festivals in Europe”. Recommended by Valeriya Safronova.

“One of the most surprising places in Vienna is the Palmenhaus ,” Franchini says. A café and bar near the Albertina museum, Palmenhaus (which translates to Palm House) is spectacularly located inside an airy former greenhouse. Head here in the morning to have breakfast while overlooking the Burggarten, or go for cocktails in the evening. Because of its large glass walls and outdoor area, Palmenhaus is the perfect setting if the sun is out. Recommended by Valeriya Safronova.

The Chapel Bar

Lisa Oberndorfer, a Vienna-based social media editor, recommends The Chapel Bar , one of the few speakeasies in the city. “It has a secret entrance,” Oberndorfer says, explaining that to get in, you have to go through Mozart’s Restaurant and find the secret door inside. “Look out for the nun,” Klimpfinger says. “The nun will lead the way.” Recommended by Valeriya Safronova.

Knödel Manufaktur

Viennese cuisine may not be world-renowned, but it’s both hearty and satisfying. “The food is delicious,” says Franchini, who has Italian heritage. For a twist on a classic Austrian meal, Oberndorfer recommends Knödel Manufaktur , a restaurant that serves Austrian knödel , or dumplings, with unusual fillings such as chocolate and black cherry, or jalapeño and cheese. “They’re really delicious but also really heavy, which is how Austrian cuisine tends to be overall,” Oberndorfer says, so get ready for some tasty but filling food in Vienna’s best Austrian restaurants. Recommended by Valeriya Safronova.

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The 24 Best Things to do in Vienna, Austria

Written By: The Planet D

Updated On: June 6, 2023

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

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

Table of Contents

Things to do in Vienna, Austria

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

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

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

Where to Stay in Vienna

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

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

1. Schönbrunn Palace

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

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

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

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

2. Schönbrunn Palace Gardens

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

3. Gloriette Cafe

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

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

4. Vienna Zoo

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

5. The Spanish Riding School

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

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

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

6. Hofburg Palace

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

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

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

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

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

7. Vienna State Opera House

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

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

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

8. St. Annes Church

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

9. Belvedere Palace

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

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

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

10. Kunsthistorisches Museum

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

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

11. Vienna Natural History Museum

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

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

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

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

12. Vienna Town Hall (Rathaus)

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

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

13. Austrian National Library

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

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

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

14. St Stephen’s Cathedral

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

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

15. Albertina Museum

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

16. Learn how to waltz

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

17. Vienna’s Museum Quarter

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

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

18. Sankt Marx Cemetery

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

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

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

19. Get a Feeling for the Macabre

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

20. Visit the Naschmarkt

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

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

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

21. Visit Wieden and Margarethen Neighborhoods

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

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

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

22. Prater Amusement Park

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

23. Vienna’s Jewish Museum

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

24. Festivals in Vienna

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

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

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

Getting Around Vienna, Austria

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

Bicycle Rentals and Tramway

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

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

Things to see on Ringstrasse Boulevard

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

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

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

Best Time to Go to Vienna, Austria

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

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

Hot Money Saving Tip for Vienna Attractions

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

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

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

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Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Book Your Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner. We have used them for years and have found that they have the best flight deals.

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor.

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

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Book Your Activities: Looking for walking tours, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and more? Then we recommend Get Your Guide.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

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

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

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

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

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

Anca from Dream, Book, and Travel

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

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

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

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

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

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

  [An * means an affiliate relationship; see footer] City guide | Search the site | Tips for September

Visiting Vienna

Vienna’s Top 10 things to see

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

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

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

1. Schönbrunn Palace

(The lovely view at Christmas)

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

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

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

2. Vienna Zoo

(One of the many zoo favourites)

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

The biggest pull in this large and modern zoo is probably the giant panda enclosure (but check availability in case the zoo is between pairs). Learn more about Tiergarten Schönbrunn and its animals .

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

3. The Albertina Museum

(The chap on the left is Archduke Albrecht)

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

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

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

4. The Riesenrad giant ferris wheel

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

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

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

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

5. The Hofburg

(View across Heldenplatz square to the Neue Burg wing)

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

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

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

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

6. Kunsthistorisches Museum

(The museum café has rather spectacular surrounds)

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

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

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

7. Belvedere

(View of Upper Belvedere palace)

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

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

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

8. Donauturm (Danube tower)

(The weekend brunches are popular)

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

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

9. Kunst Haus Wien

(The iconic architectural style of Friedensreich Hundertwasser)

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

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

10. Naturhistorisches Museum

(Sits opposite the Kunsthistorisches Museum)

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

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

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

Try These 9 Unusual Things to Do in Vienna, Austria

Disclosure: This post (probably) contains affiliate links. If you click on one, I may make a small commission. Of course, this will come at no extra cost to you and helps keep this site running.

Vienna is a city with a lot of classic attractions. Tourists often know exactly which highlights to hit during their visit, from Schönbrunn Palace to Stephansdom Cathedral. But there are lots of unusual things to do in Vienna too.

I’ve accumulated a lot of time exploring Vienna over the years. And while there are still some famous buildings in Vienna I haven’t been inside (Karlskirche for one), I’ve stumbled onto plenty of smaller attractions in my time. So, if you’re returning to Vienna and want to mix things up, or just like getting away from the crowds, these are some less common and non-touristy things to do in Vienna.

Table of Contents

Tour the Austrian Parliament

It’s interesting to me that the Austrian Parliament often fades into the background for many visitors.

I mean, not only is it a major national institution, but it’s a beautiful one at that. The building’s grand neoclassical architecture and the statue of Athena are hard to miss when exploring the inner city and taking the tram around Ringstrasse.

But what about inside?

Far fewer tourists know or try seeing inside this magnificent building and if you don’t you’re missing out.

Guided tours of the Parliament Building allow you to see it’s equally grand on the inside. The Former House of Representatives Chamber is the highlight with its statues, woodwork, and enormous glass ceiling, but the Colonnaded Hall is also impressive.

Visit the Roman Museum

People associate Vienna with a lot of things, from its Imperial history to classical music and coffee house culture.

Few realise, though, that Vienna also has a very clear ancient Roman history. Which is where the Roman Museum comes in handy.

Located on Hohermarkt in the city centre, this is not one of Vienna’s busiest museums. But if you’re a history buff, it’s not to be missed. Inside you learn how you can see clear signs of the early Roman fortifications in the layout of the inner city and even how Graben got its name.

Down in the basement, you’ll understand why the museum is located where it is when you see ancient Roman ruins just sitting there.

The Roman Museum doesn’t compare to a trip out to Carnuntum , but it serves as a good alternative that’s quick and easy to visit.

See the Spitellau Incinerator

Of all the unusual things to do in Vienna, asking you to find an industrial incinerator may seem like the strangest.

But there’s a method in the madness.

Vienna is famous for the architecture of Friedensreich Hundertwasser, a local architect whose modernist designs pushed boundaries. Tourists flock to see the Hundertwasserhaus and the Kunst Haus Wien , two buildings that bear his colourful, patchwork designs.

There is another.

And it just so happens to be the Spitellau Incinerator , found just across from Wien Spittelau Bahnhof . The story behind it is interesting , but otherwise, it’s just another quirky Vienna sight to see.

Find the Vergilius Chapel

Did you know that you’ve probably walked over a hidden medieval chapel in the heart of Vienna and not even known it?

The Vergilius Chapel is a 13th-century Gothic chapel sitting roughly 12 metres under Stephansplatz . It was only discovered in the 70s as they were building the underground metro through the area.

Access to this subterranean treasure is equally secluded. You need to head into the Stephansplatz U-Bahn station and find the entrance within the station.

It won’t take long to see this small attraction and its small museum, but the ambience of the Vergilius Chapel is special.

Best of all, you’ll always remember it’s beneath your feet every time you’re in Stephansplatz from then on.

You can find other hidden gems near Stephansplatz with this walking tour .

Paddle on the Alte Donau

Most visitors know that the Danube River flows past Vienna.

However, many get understandably confused when they’re also introduced to the Danube Canal, the New Danube, and the Old Danube ( Alte Donau ).

What’s interesting about the Alte Donau is that it isn’t a river or a canal. It’s an oxbow lake that split off from the river. And it’s beautifully serene.

At the Alte Donau, you’ll find swimming pools, beaches, and docks where you can easily access the water to swim or paddle about. You can rent boats ( or one of these ) to explore the lake near the Alte Donau U-Bahn station ( here ) or go on a kayaking tour .

The Alte Donau is also just one of my favourite places in Vienna to walk and where you can watch the fireworks in summer during Lichterfest .

Visit the Globe Museum

Globenmuseum der Österreichischen Nationalbibliothek © Österreichische Nationalbibliothek/Pichler

I don’t think visitors to Vienna realise just how many museums the city has.

For every big museum like the popular Art History Museum , there are countless smaller niche museums, such as the Globe Museum .

There’s no mystery surrounding what you’ll find at the Globe Museum – globes. But a lot of them. The museum holds over 250 historical globes, showing the gradual mapping of the known world by cartographers.

But it doesn’t just have globes of the usual maps you’re used to seeing. There are also detailed celestial globes of the night sky and globes of the moon and other planets. The exhibits have instruments used to chart these maps too.

If you’re like me and find maps fascinating, this is worth the €5 ticket, which also provides entry to the Esperanto Museum .

Walk at Lainzer Tiergarten

Vienna has no shortage of parks and areas of nature where you can escape it all.

Many of these spaces hug the outskirts of Vienna , with the forests around Kahlenberg probably the most popular. But one that many tourists miss is the Lainzer Tiergarten .

Like the Prater, this area was once a royal hunting ground. But the Lainzer Tiergarten is huge, covering hills and woodland across the southwest of Vienna. If you want a long walk in the woods, this is the place to go.

The reserve has attractions too of course. Near the Lainzertor , there’s a playground and a short walk away, the Hermes Villa – a beautiful manor home with a cafe. My highlight though is the city viewpoint , where you get broad views across Vienna.

Admire the Arsenal

The Belvedere Palace in Vienna’s 3rd District is one of the best places to visit in Vienna.

Across the road from the palace, you have the Schweizergarten , a seemingly ordinary park. But at the back of the park, lies a building unlike any other in the city, the Arsenal .

This former military complex bears a mix of “Italian-medieval and Byzantine-Islamic” architectural styles that immediately stood out to me. For others, what’s inside is more important – Vienna’s Museum of Military History .

Now, while I think going here is an unusual thing to do in Vienna, the internet seems to disagree. This museum is very well-rated, so obviously I didn’t get the memo.

But I haven’t seen this attraction on many Vienna itineraries, so I’m saying it’s an unusual thing to do in Vienna and sticking with it.

Try some Kaiserschmarrn

Cake, schnitzel, and strudel are probably the three first foods people associate with Vienna.

I’m all for getting coffee and cake while in Vienna, trying the Sacher Torte and then finding other cakes you actually like more.

But there’s more depth to Vienna’s food scene than this. Glance at a restaurant menu and dishes like backhendl , tafelspitz , and spätzle are regularly there and well worth trying.

But to me the dish I wish more people tried in Vienna is Kaiserschmarrn.

The best way to describe Kaiserschmarrn is chopped-up pancakes, served with fruit and jam. Sweet, decadent, and filling – I love it. Go to Heindl’s Schmarren & Palatschinkenkuchl a 5-minute walk from Stephansplatz. Or learn to make it yourself!

I think you’ll thank me.

David is the author behind the Travelsewhere travel blog and is always on the search for the quieter, less-visited corners of the world.

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