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

  • Viennese Insights
  • The 10+ best sightseeing tours…

vienna sightseeing tours karlskirche

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

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

Our ultimate guide to where to stay in Vienna

Our 3-days in Vienna itinerary suggestion

Our list of best books set in/about Vienna

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

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

Best Sightseeing Tours of Vienna - Belvedere Palace

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

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

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

Vienna Stephansplatz

Vienna Old Town – Half-Day Walking Tour

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Tour the Belvedere Palace guided by an art historian

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

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

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

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

Explore Imperial Vienna at the Schonbrunn Palace

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

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

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

Best sightseeing tours of Vienna - Schonbrunn Palace

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

Best sightseeing tours of Vienna – themed tours and unique experiences

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

Walk the hills of Vienna in Beethoven’s footsteps

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

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

Panoramic view autumn in Vienna from Kahlenberg.

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

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

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

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

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

Classical music concert and Baroque ambiance – Vivaldi in the Karlskirche

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

vienna sightseeing tours karlskirche

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

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

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

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

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

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

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15 Best Vienna Tours

Vienna holds a number of impressive distinctions.

It’s Austria’s capital, one of the country’s nine states, and with nearly 2 million residents it’s also its most populous city.

For generations Vienna has been the country’s economic and cultural heart, and each year guests from all over the world descend on the historic city to experience some of the most memorable attractions on the continent.

Vienna is rich in history, but it’s also a center of business, recreation, and food, and it’s full of buildings with impressive architecture as well.

Below are 14 of the best tours of Vienna.

1. Private Vienna Welcome Tour with Local Guide

Vienna, Austria

Back in the late ‘70s Billy Joel proclaimed, “Vienna waits for you.”

Whether you took the hint and visited then or are just getting around to it four decades later, Vienna is definitely a city that deserves to be experienced.

This private, guided, welcome tour introduces new guests to the city’s most popular attractions, and is a great way to get up to speed quickly for those with limited time.

Depending on available time and the interests of participants, tours can range from 2 to 4 hours, which means you’ll only spend time on the things you want to see.

Entrance fees, food and drink, and optional activities aren’t included.

2. Skip-the-Line Guided Tour of Schönbrunn Palace & Gardens

Schönbrunn Palace, Vienna

For much of its existence Schönbrunn Palace was home to the Hapsburgs who ruled the country for generations.

It goes without saying that they spared no expense in ensconcing themselves in luxurious appointments, and for many travelers time spent on-site is one of the most memorable experiences of their trip.

Priceless art, gilded furniture, expansive gardens and dozens of staterooms are among the palace’s most impressive features, and guests will learn about the family and country’s history as they’re led around by their knowledgeable guide.

Tours generally last a few hours, and entrance to the Imperial Crypt is an option that may be chosen at booking.

View Prices & Reviews

3. Lipizzaner Performance

Performance Of The Lipizzans

For those who don’t know much about horses, Lipizzaners are a majestic breed that have been trained to perform for generations.

Lipizzaners are purported to be the oldest breed in Europe, and they perform feats that seem to defy the laws of physics.

In fact they’re such an impressive cultural attraction that they’ve received recognition from UNESCO as cultural heritage icons.

This multi-hour extravaganza usually leaves spectators breathless, and is accompanied by traditional Viennese music which adds to the already unique and inspiring atmosphere.

Tickets tend to go quickly during peak times, so plan ahead if that’s when you’ll be visiting.

4. Guided Viennese Coffee House Tour

Guided Viennese Coffee-House Tour

If you can’t get over-caffeinated in a coffee loving town like Vienna in three hours you’re just not trying hard enough.

Not only will participants taste some of the city’s best java in all its delectable forms, but they’ll learn about how beans are roasted, ground, and transformed into the addictive elixir.

Vienna has a distinct coffee culture that most visitors find alluring, and there’s no better way to experience it than as part of this guided coffee house tour.

It’s reserved for small groups, so is a great fit for those traveling with friends and family.

5. Sightseeing Boat Tour with Lunch

Sightseeing Boat Tour with Lunch - Vienna

This boat tour along the Danube River is a great fit for international visitors who want their first view of the historic city to be from a unique perspective.

Cruises last about an hour and include lunch with soup, main course and desert.

The boat is both stable and comfortable, and offers guests plenty of indoor area from which to relax or just enjoy the sights if the weather happens to take a turn for the worse.

You’ll see many of the city’s most prominent attractions and lots of stunning examples of medieval, renaissance, and baroque architecture.

6. Strudel Show and Tasting at Schönbrunn Palace

Strudel Show with Tasting at Schönbrunn Palace

Strudel occupies a central place in the lives of many Austrians.

It’s so popular in fact, that a number of tours offer visitors trips to Strudel bakeries that always include tastings.

The famous Schönbrunn Palace in Vienna is a premier attraction that’s been one of the city’s baking centers for centuries.

Guests will see how Viennese strudel is made from start to finish, and even get a copy of the original recipe to try at home.

It definitely won’t be as good as what you devoured at Schönbrunn Palace, but before leaving you’ll have ample opportunity to eat your fair share.

7. Panoramic Night Tour by Bus

Vienna by Night

Vienna is a stunning city regardless of when you see it, but many agree that it’s particularly special at night.

This one hour bus tour is a great way to end a hectic day, and it offers international guests the option of listening to an audio guide in nearly 20 languages.

Participants will see the Vienna State Opera building, Belvedere Palace, and the Museum of Natural History to name a few.

Though you’ll only see them from the bus, you may choose to visit them on your own later in your visit.

Tours end early enough to head out for a nightcap or two.

8. Classic Ensemble Vienna in St. Peter’s Church

St. Peter's Church, Vienna

According to historians it took nearly three decades in the early 18th century to build St. Peter’s Church.

Thank goodness the foremen didn’t rush things, because it’s now one of the city’s most impressive examples of baroque architecture, and it offers regular musical events that are second to none.

Vienna’s Classic Ensemble includes amazing classical music from old-world masters like Bach, Mozart and Schubert.

The evening lasts about an hour and starts promptly at 8:00 pm so don’t be late.

Food, drinks, and transportation to and from the church aren’t included, but it’s near to public transportation so getting there won’t be a problem.

9. Nabiel’s Cooking Classes and Naschmarket Tasting Tours

Naschmarket, Vienna

Small group private tours are great ways to get a more unique experience than you would with larger ones.

This cooking class and tasting tour combo is just the ticket for foodies and those who prefer getting their hands dirty to seeing things from a distance.

In the cooking class portion of the tour you’ll learn lots of traditional Viennese techniques like how to make schnitzel that’s typically ranked as the world’s best.

Then you’ll head out to the Maschmarket to explore and taste a variety of treats from vendors.

Options are available for vegans and those with food allergies and dietary restrictions too, so drop the tour provider a line before booking.

10. Vienna Segway Tour

Vienna Segways

Segways are great ways to get around quickly, and they’re surprisingly safe and fun for those of most ages as well.

Vienna’s Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and as such it’s chockfull of interesting contemporary and historic attractions that can be easily seen together on this whirlwind 3 hour tour.

It’s a private, guided, small group tour so guests can customize their experience, meaning no time wasted on things that don’t perk their interests.

If you’ve never used a Segway it’s no big deal because they’re easy, and you’ll get all the instruction you’ll need before heading out to see the sights.

11. Vienna Highlights Bike Tour

Hofburg Palace, Vienna

Though Segways have their place in urban tourism, they’re not very fast, are limited by terrain, and don’t permit riders to get much exercise.

Enter the traditional bicycle—a reliable mainstay of transportation for who knows how long.

This 3 hour bike tour of Vienna is led by a local guide and includes many of the city’s most iconic and photogenic sites.

The Hofburg Imperial Palace, St. Stephen’s Cathedral, and the Austrian Parliament Building are chief among them, and sweeping views of the Danube are among the perennial favorites as well.

Participants will have time to stop, relax, snap a few photos and enjoy a cold drink along the way.

12. Vienna Hop-On Hop-Off Tour by Bus

Hop On Hop Off, Vienna

Hop-on hop-off bus tours have become increasingly popular in recent years because they offer activity minded travelers the option of venturing out on their own when the spirit moves them.

These Vienna tour tickets are good for either 1, 2, or 3 days, and guests will see many impressive city attractions from the comfort of a double decker bus.

Tours include multiple routes, free Wi-Fi, and commentary as well.

Riders can hop off at any stops that strike their fancy, and choose to spend as much or as little time as they like.

Tours generally last between 1 ½ and 2 hours.

13. Full-Day Vienna Woods Wine Tour

Vineyard, Vienna Woods

Vienna is a vibrant and bustling city of nearly 2 million residents, and though it’s full of attractions, many visitors need a break from the urban setting after a few days.

Thankfully the Austrian countryside is characterized my towering mountains, green pastures, ancient forests, and idyllic panoramas.

It’s also home to some amazing wineries that have been churning out world-class products for hundreds of years.

Lower Austria is the country’s wine epicenter, and this tour gets underway at the city’s main rail station before making the scenic trip to the Thermal Region and Vienna Woods.

Tours include round-trip transportation, tours and tastings at two wineries, and interesting narration from your knowledgeable guide along the way.

14. Private Guided Tour of Musical Vienna

Vienna State Opera House

Vienna has always been a city rich in musical history, and this 5 hour guided tour is the perfect way for music lovers to get their fill in a relatively short time.

Along with your private guide you’ll explore such attractions as the State Opera and Mozarthaus, where the famous composer lived in years past.

You’ll also visit the graves of old masters like Beethoven and Schubert, and learn about the city’s history and culture from your knowledgeable and enthusiastic guide.

Previous guests have described the tour as both informative and entertaining, but it may not be a good fit for those traveling with young children.

15. Concert Tickets for the Vienna Residence Orchestra

Vienna Residence Orchestra

Unforgettable musical evenings aren’t exactly rare in Vienna, but these concert tickets for the Vienna Residence Orchestra offer visitors a truly memorable experience with one of the continent’s most renowned orchestras.

The Baroque-style Palais Auerspert is where Wolfgang Mozart performed many of his most monumental works, and has been one of the country’s centers for entertainment and culture for ages.

Although the Palais is most associated with Mozart, it also performs other works by composers such as Joseph Haydn and Christoph Gluck.

Concerts start at 8:15 and last approximately 90 minutes.

15 Best Vienna Tours:

  • Private Vienna Welcome Tour with Local Guide
  • Skip-the-Line Guided Tour of Schönbrunn Palace & Gardens
  • Lipizzaner Performance
  • Guided Viennese Coffee House Tour
  • Sightseeing Boat Tour with Lunch
  • Strudel Show and Tasting at Schönbrunn Palace
  • Panoramic Night Tour by Bus
  • Classic Ensemble Vienna in St. Peter's Church
  • Nabiel's Cooking Classes and Naschmarket Tasting Tours
  • Vienna Segway Tour
  • Vienna Highlights Bike Tour
  • Vienna Hop-On Hop-Off Tour by Bus
  • Full-Day Vienna Woods Wine Tour
  • Private Guided Tour of Musical Vienna
  • Concert Tickets for the Vienna Residence Orchestra

PlanetWare.com

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

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

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

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

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

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

1. Explore Imperial Schönbrunn Palace and Gardens

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

Schönbrunn Palace and Gardens

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

The Hofburg

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

Kunsthistorisches Museum and Maria-Theresien-Platz

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/

Belvedere Palace

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

Panda at the Vienna Zoo (Tiergarten Schönbrunn)

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/

The Albertina

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

The Vienna State Opera House

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/

St. Stephen's Cathedral

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.

St. Stephen's Cathedral

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

Natural History Museum (Naturhistorisches Museum)

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

Vienna City Hall

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

The Prater and the Giant Ferris Wheel

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/

The Spanish Riding School

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/

Imperial Vault (Kapuzinergruft)

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

The Museum Quarter

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/

St. Peter's Catholic Church (Peterskirche)

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

The Famous Demel: Vienna's Ultimate Café

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

Karlskirche

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

Karlskirche dedicated to St Charles Borromeo - Floor plan map

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/

Hundertwasserhaus

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/

Joggers on Danube Island

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.

The Austrian Parliament Building

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/

Kärtner Strasse and the Donner Fountain

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.

Burgtheater: Austria's National Theater

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

Museum of Military History

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 Franciscan Church: St. Jerome

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

Judenplatz Holocaust Memorial

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

Sigmund Freud Museum

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.

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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.

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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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best sightseeing tours in vienna

18 Best Things to Do in Vienna, Austria

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

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best sightseeing tours in vienna

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.)

best sightseeing tours in vienna

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.

best sightseeing tours in vienna

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.

best sightseeing tours in vienna

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best sightseeing tours in vienna

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.

best sightseeing tours in vienna

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.

best sightseeing tours in vienna

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 .

best sightseeing tours in vienna

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.

best sightseeing tours in vienna

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.

best sightseeing tours in vienna

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best sightseeing tours in vienna

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.

best sightseeing tours in vienna

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.

best sightseeing tours in vienna

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.

best sightseeing tours in vienna

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.

best sightseeing tours in vienna

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.

best sightseeing tours in vienna

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best sightseeing tours in vienna

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.

best sightseeing tours in vienna

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. 

best sightseeing tours in vienna

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.

best sightseeing tours in vienna

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.

best sightseeing tours in vienna

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.

best sightseeing tours in vienna

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  • Tours & Walks

Through the city with Vienna's tourist guides

Hardly anyone knows Vienna as well as the certified Viennese tourist guides. So if you think you already know (almost) everything about Vienna, then you should really consider going on one or more tours. It's worth it.

The best way to take a tour of Vienna is with one of the certified guides, who know the city better than the back of their hand. Tourist guides also offer much more than just city tours. They are storytellers, art historians, architecture aficionados, insiders, gourmets, jacks of all trades, and much more besides. A pretty good combination, wouldn't you say?

We have put together a selection of original and exciting tours by Viennese tourist guides for you:

On an architecture tour through Vienna

Architecturally speaking, Vienna can offer more than just Schönbrunn , St. Stephen's Cathedral , and the Ringstrasse . From Otto Wagner's magnificent Art Nouveau buildings (Majolica House or Church of St. Leopold) via the Bauhaus style ( Werkbundsiedlung ) to modern architecture ( WU Campus with buildings by Zaha Hadid or NO.MAD Arquitectos), there's a diverse architectural landscape waiting to be discovered.

Out and about in the neighborhood – Vienna for the Viennese

The Viennese love their neighborhood , but do they really know it as well as they think they do? Any gaps in knowledge can be filled on a district tour or neighborhood tour . Interesting not only for Viennese but also for visitors who'd like to take a really close look at their favorite district or other unknown districts.

On the Venusberg

Known, loved and famous for its picturesque Christmas market in winter, the Spittelberg and its wonderful Biedermeier houses can look back over a literally moving history. Previously also called the "Venusberg", establishments of somewhat dubious repute once existed here, in today's 7th district. With so many spicy details, you can satisfy your hunger in one of the numerous restaurants on the Spittelberg .

Fancy a coffee? Or two?

Perhaps you'd like a Melange or an Einspänner in between? The sweet side of Vienna can definitely be experienced over coffee and cake . Tourist guides have a few stories to tell about the city's legendary coffee houses .

Concealed corners with edges – and a lot of history

In Vienna, you'll stroll along convoluted and concealed paths: on this tour, you'll dive deep into hidden Vienna, which lets us dream of times long past with its enchanted stories. From Blutgasse (Blood Lane) via the Greek quarter to the old university quarter .

Death must be a Viennese

People like dying in Vienna. That may sound comical, but people here connect death with far more than grief. Things are likely to get a bit morbid . That's no surprise, because you can walk on guided tours through notorious cemeteries ( Central Cemetery ) as well as through enchanted final resting places ( Cemetery of the Nameless ).

Off to Mazzesinsel

What would Vienna be without its Jewish population ? On a guided tour through Jewish Vienna , you'll naturally learn all sorts of things about Viennese Jewry over the course of history, but also that the 2nd district was once called "Mazzesinsel". The area is still home to kosher supermarkets, butchers, and bakers, which pamper the palate with Jewish specialties .

The little ones on a great tour of discovery

Vienna is a big deal even for the little ones: From dragons and unicorns to Wolfie and Nannerl, from animal city life to imperial sweets. A city holiday with children is really fun with the right programme. In this way the kids, but also their parents, get to know Vienna in a playful way.

An overview of the tours:

Architecture tours

District tours

"Spittelberg" tour

"Coffee and Cake" tour

"Hidden Corners" tour

"Cemeteries" tour

"Jewish Vienna" tour

Guided tours for children

Or you can find many other guided tours at Guides in Vienna or your very personal guide to Vienna here .

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  4. 27 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions & Things to Do in Vienna

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  5. 10 Top Tourist Attractions in Vienna (with Photos & Map)

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  6. The 10+ best sightseeing tours of Vienna

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    We have put together a selection of original and exciting tours by Viennese tourist guides for you: On an architecture tour through Vienna. Architecturally speaking, Vienna can offer more than just Schönbrunn, St. Stephen's Cathedral, and the Ringstrasse.From Otto Wagner's magnificent Art Nouveau buildings (Majolica House or Church of St. Leopold) via the Bauhaus style (Werkbundsiedlung) to ...

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