top 10 tourist attractions in vienna austria

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

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

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

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

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

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

1. Explore Imperial Schönbrunn Palace and Gardens

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

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

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

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

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

Address: Schönbrunner Schloßstraße 47, 1130 Vienna, Austria

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

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

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

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

Address: Michaelerkuppel, 1010 Vienna, Austria

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Official site: www.khm.at/en/

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Address: Maxingstraße 13b, 1130 Vienna, Austria

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

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

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

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

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

Address: Albertinaplatz 1, 1010 Vienna, Austria

Official site: www.albertina.at/en

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

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

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

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

Address: Opernring 2, 1010 Vienna, Austria

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

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

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

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

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

Address: Stephansplatz 3, 1010 Vienna, Austria

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

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

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

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

Address: Burgring 7, 1010, Vienna, Austria

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Address: 1020 Vienna, Austria

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

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

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

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

Address: Michaelerplatz 1, 1010 Vienna, Austria

Official site: www.srs.at/en/

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

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

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

Address: Neuer Markt, 1010 Vienna, Austria

Official site: www.kapuzinergruft.com

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

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

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

Address: Museumsplatz 1, 1070 Wien, Austria

Official site: www.mqw.at/en/

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

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

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

Address: Petersplatz 1, 1010 Vienna, Austria

Official site: www.peterskirche.at

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

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

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

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

Address: Kohlmarkt 14, 1010 Vienna, Austria

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

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

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

Address: Kreuzherrengasse 1, Vienna, Austria

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

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

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

Address: Donauturmstraße 8, 1220 Wien, Austria

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

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

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

Address: Kegelgasse 36-38, 1030 Vienna, Austria

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Address: Universitätsring 2, 1010 Vienna, Austria

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

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

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

Address: Arsenal 1, 1030 Vienna, Austria

Official site: www.hgm.at/en

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

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

Address: Franziskanerplatz 4, 1010 Vienna, Austria

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

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

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

Address: Dorotheergasse 11, 1010 Vienna, Austria

Official site: www.jmw.at/en

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

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

Address: Berggasse 13, 1090 Vienna, Austria

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

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

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

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

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

More on Austria

Vienna   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Christoph Hetzmannseder | Getty Images

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.

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

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

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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.

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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.

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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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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

• Visa Application Helpline

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Best 25 Tourist Attractions in Vienna That You Must Know About

Do you know that Vienna was once referred to as the Capital of the World? Maybe you do. But the question is why the capital of Austria is called the Capital of the World. Well, it has some pretty good reasons to be so, and you can only discover those reasons only by exploring this city. 

Vienna is one of the prettiest and lively cities in Europe , which is also rich in history, art, and incredible architecture. The city has the Royal touch of many dynasties, and the Hapsburg dynasty is the most renowned among them. And for sure, it is a haven for the history buffs.

Before you enter this traditional city, quickly check out the best 25 tourist attractions in Vienna so that you can get a clear idea of where you want to opt first.

Now let get started!

WHAT IS COVERED IN THIS ARTICLE?

Here is 25 Tourist Attractions in Vienna to visit

1. belvedere palace.

Belvedere Palace is one of the most incredible attractions in Vienna and a Pandora box for art lovers. It is the former residence of Prince Eugene of Savoy. Those of you who admire artwork and history must not miss this outstanding Belvedere complex. 

The complex is divided into two baroque buildings, namely: the Lower (Unteres) Belvedere and the Upper (Oberes) Belvedere. Both buildings are rich with brilliant artwork and masterpieces.

Built by Prince Eugene of Savoy, the Upper Palace exhibits the ceremonial staircase that has stucco relief and murals. The uniqueness of this Upper building is its two-story Marble Hall that has historic sculptures, ceiling art, and paintings. There is also an enchanting view of statues placed on the Ground Floor.

The Lower Palace also houses a Marble Hall that exhibits exquisite plaster decorations, a spectacular ceiling, and the Marble Gallery displays a collection of ancient statues.

The remarkable fountains and gardens are the linkers of these two buildings.

Address: Prinz Eugen-Straße 27, 1030 Wien

Opening time: Daily 10:00 am to 06:00 pm

Admission fee: Adults: EUR6.00 – 25.00 (depending on which tickets you choose); Children (below 18): free

2. Spanish Riding School

If you want to be a witness to a 400-year-old legacy, you cannot avoid visiting the Spanish Riding School . Established in the time of Emperor Maximilian Ⅱ, it is a school that offers performances of the world-famous Lipizzaner horses. 

The riders and horses undergo special training to showcase their breathtaking equestrian skills. The performances are so spectacular and classic that the viewers call it magic.

You can visit the school during their morning training session to catch some action. But the actual performance is far better and has a huge demand for tickets. So, it would be better to book your tickets in advance to enjoy this elegant show.

Address: Michaelerplatz 1, 1010 Wien

Opening time: Monday to Sunday 09:00 am to 04:00 pm｜Friday 09:00 am to 07:00 pm (in case of showcase)

Admission fee: Actual show: EUR25.00 – 217.00｜Morning work: EUR7.50 – 15.00

3. Kunsthistorisches Museum Wien

Museums are always an artistic treasure, and Kunsthistorisches Museum Wien is one of the essential art historical institutions in the world. Housed in the magnificent palatial building, the museum shelters an extensive art collection of the Hapsburg royal family. 

Inspired by Roman architecture and classicism, Kunsthistorisches Museum was designed by Gottfried Semper and opened in 1891. The museum is situated close to the Hofburg imperial palace as well as some other renowned cultural institutions.

It is the home of numerous world-class works of art, paintings, pictures, and history. Here you’ll get a section called “Egyptian Collection”, where you can learn A-Z of motifs from Ancient Egypt. There are more sections like the Collection of Greek and Roman antiquities, coin collection, library, and picture Collection, which will undoubtedly blow your mind.

Paintings by Raphael, Caravaggio, Vermeer, and Titian, as well as portraits by Velazquez, are the masterpieces of this museum that attract most visitors.

Address: Maria-Theresien-Platz, 1010 Wien

Opening time: Friday to Wednesday 10:00 am to 06:00 pm｜Thursday 10:00 am to 09:00 pm

Admission fee: Adults: EUR16.00

4. Albertina

Built in 1744, Albertina is one of the most beautiful Palaces in Vienna, which has been converted into a museum. The Palace reflects the neoclassical architecture style and exhibits some magnificent artworks. 

During the Habsburg monarchy, Albertina was the largest residential palace in the city. And now, in the present day, it houses over a million works of art and nearly 65,000 drawings. 

With twenty staterooms, the museum shows the world-renowned art collection of Monet, Degas, Cézanne, and of course, Picasso. All these masterpieces have made this museum one of the world’s most impressive graphic art collections.

Address: Albertinapl. 1, 1010 Wien

Opening time: Thursday to Tuesday 10:00 am to 06:00 pm｜Wednesday 10:00 am to 09:00 pm

Admission fee: Adults: EUR12.90; Children (below 19): free; Vienna Card Holder: EUR10.50

5. State Hall of the Austrian National Library

Visiting a library during your touring time may sound boring. But the State Hall of the Austrian National Library is an exception and will entirely change your conception about the library. This State Hall is the heart of the Austrian National Library and has the stunning statue of Emperor Charles Ⅵ, just at the centre of the library.

To visit this giant library, you have to prepare your neck as the State Hall has a delightful dome with fascinating frescoes lying at the centre ceiling.

Besides its mesmerising look, the library is a heaven for history buffs and bibliophiles. It shelters countless oldest and rarest books on its wonderfully carved wooden shelves. 

The library has a royal look as it was established nearly 450 years ago and is the most extensive baroque library in Europe. It is worthwhile to visit this place during the annual exhibitions. The library hosts more than one annual exhibition in a year.

Address: Josefsplatz 1, 1010 Wien

Opening time: Tuesday to Sunday 10:00 am to 06:00 pm (Closed on Monday)

Admission fee: Free of charge

6. Vienna State Opera

Opera shows are the most classic and sophisticated attraction. And if you get a chance to visit an opera show in the elegant and royal city, Vienna, you for sure will not miss it.

You cannot leave Vienna without visiting the Vienna State Opera at least once as this Opera House ranks top amongst the world’s Opera Houses. This place not only offers you to enjoy the live performances, but also you can admire the tremendous aesthetic architecture of the house. You’ll also have a guided tour facility here. 

The uniqueness of this Opera House is its incredible interior decor, giant auditorium, and splendid staircase. Rich with history and culture, the Vienna State Opera showcases a new performance every week. But the star show is its annual event called “Viennese Opera Ball” which is a memorable occasion that you can be witnessed of.

Address: Opernring 2, 1010 Wien

Opening time: To know the performance and event time, visit the official page of Vienna State Opera .

Admission fee: General tour ticket EUR9.00｜Children and students (up to the age of 27) EUR4.00｜Senior citizens EUR7.00

7. Hundertwasser House

A famous, unique, and colourful Vienna’s cultural heritage is the Hundertwasser House . Locally called the “nature and human-friendly apartments”, this house is the must-visit attraction of Vienna.

This fanciful house is one of the architectural delights of Vienna. In the 20th century, the painter Friedensreich Hundertwasser designed this brightly coloured apartment. And so the name of this landmark is also after him. 

This beautiful building is situated in the Landstraße district and houses 52 apartments, each of them in a different colour. The highlight of the building is the growing trees inside and outside of it.

You can also enjoy a warm cup of coffee as it has a terrace café called “Kunst und Café”. 

Address: Kegelgasse 36-38, 1030 Wien

Opening time: Daily 24 hours

Established in the 12th century, Graben is a renowned street in Vienna. It is also known as Vienna’s Heart of Shopping. So clearly, you can imagine, this is the ultimate shopping experience for those of you who are shopaholics.

This elegant street is one of the hottest fashion destinations in Europe as it hosts many popular stores as well as a gourmet supermarket in the main street and the surrounding alleys. At the same time, it is the home of some of the most renowned restaurants and cafés, such as Demel and Hawelka.

The Pestäule (the Plague Column)

Besides shopping, the main attraction of Graben Street is the Pestäule (the Plague Column). This sculpture was built by Emperor Leopold in 1679. It is situated just right in the centre of the street as a monument to the end of a terrible epidemic that killed thousands of lives.

Address: 1010 Vienna

9. Karlskirche

When you’re in Vienna, visiting a church is a very common phenomenon as this city is the home of numerous traditional and baroque churches. Karlskirche church is one of the most impressive churches in Vienna, and of course, it is a must-see attraction in Vienna.

This magnificent building was built in the early 18th century under the observation of Emperor Charles Ⅵ. The architecture style of this unique church is a mixture of ancient Greek and Roman elements with Renaissance, Byzantine, and Baroque designs. 

The exterior decoration will impress you with its massive dome and two giant columns. In comparison, the church’s interior design is rich with marble stonework, statues, wall paintings, and carvings.

Unlike other churches, Karlskirche church has no barrier for visitors and offers a unique feature called “Panorama lift”. With the help of this lift, you can opt at the height of 32.5 meters and enjoy the view of frescoes and the whole church.

Address: 1040 Vienna

Opening time: Monday to Saturday 09:00 am to 06:00 pm｜Sunday 12:00 pm to 07:00 pm

10. Rathaus (Vienna City Hall) 

The Rathaus is one of the tallest and most fascinating buildings in Vienna. This city hall serves as the administrative centre of the city. The remarkable building is famous for the iron figure on top of its 98-meter high tower. 

Its Neo-Gothic style of architecture will surely impress you as it looks like a fairytale castle. Here you can learn some interesting facts about Vienna City Hall and the Ringstrasse. Moreover, the arcaded courtyard of the building is a regular host of summer concerts and Christmas markets. You’ll get an audio guide there on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday at 01:00 pm. 

Address: Friedrich-Schmidt-Platz 1, 1010 Wien 

Opening time: Monday to Friday 08:00 am to 06:00 pm 

11. MuseumsQuarter

MuseumsQuarter is the treasure of Vienna, where you can spend your whole life only exploring it. The complex is the home of several museums, art studios, along with cafés and restaurants. 

This place is vibrant with culture, art, and wonders. Moreover, it has numerous exciting spots to hang out with friends and family. Leopold Museum and the Museum of Modern Art are must-visits because of their art collections that will give you a glance at Austria’s leading modern arts and artists.

So, if you want to explore the prospering culture of Vienna, you should not miss the MuseumsQuarter that is spread across a vast area of 60,000 sq metres and hosts many exhibitions and festivals.

Address: Museumsplatz 1, 1070 Wien

Admission fee: EUR17.00 – 50.00 (Depends on tickets)

12. Austrian Parliament Building

The Austrian Parliament Building is one of Vienna’s most renowned tourist attractions. In the meantime, it is worthwhile because of its importance to the country and its spectacular architecture. The building is situated on the popularly known Ringstrasse. 

It is architectural excellence that reflects Classic Greek architecture. The white columns and bronze statues of the building attract most visitors. But the remarkable sight is its marvellous Pallas Athene Fountain that stands just in the foreground of the Parliament Building.

Here you will get many guided tours around the building and explore the history, culture, art, and politics of Austria. On the second Saturday of every month, the Parliament House hosts an art exhibition and welcomes visitors. So it can be the best time to be a witness to this dynamic attraction of Vienna.

Address: Dr. Karl Renner-Ring 3, 1017 Wien

Opening time: Monday to Friday 06:30 am to 07:00 pm｜Saturday 09:00 am to 05:00 pm

Admission fee: Ticket for guided tour Adult: EUR5.00; Children (below 19): free

13. Naschmarkt

I am pretty sure you will never leave Vienna without doing shopping or visiting the local market. Since the late 16th century, Naschmarkt has been one of Vienna’s most popular marketplaces and tourist destinations. 

The marketplace offers more than 120 shops and eateries with a multicultural population. From Viennese to Italian and from Vietnamese to Indian, every cultural culinary is available at Naschmarkt. That’s why this market grabs the attention of a large number of food bloggers and food enthusiasts.

Besides eateries, local groceries and foreign souvenirs are also available here. So the marketplace can be a great way to spend your afternoon.

Address: 1060 Vienna

Opening time: Monday to Friday 06:00 am to 09:00 pm｜Saturday 06:00 am to 06:00 pm (Closed on Sunday)

14. Stadtpark

Are you tired and have enough sightseeing for a day? Do you want a place to have some leisure and relaxing time? If your answer is a big YES, then you should directly opt for the greenery of Stadtpark . 

The literal meaning of the word “Stadtpark” is “city park”. And this park is a little haven for nature lovers. It is a place where both local and foreign visitors come to have some relaxing time. 

The park is divided in two by the Wien River that is running through it. So to explore the whole Stadtpark that is covered over 28 acres, you have to cross some small bridges over the River.

The lush greenery and golden statues are the most interesting sights of the Stadtpark. Here one can enjoy quality time and watch flora and fauna at once. 

Address: Parkring 1, 1010 Wien

15. Demel Cafe

Before leaving Vienna, it is worthwhile to pay a visit to Demel Cafe, which is one of the most popular and traditional cafes in the city. Located near the Hofburg Palace, Demel has fame in the national and international platform for its delicious desserts and chocolates.

Established in 1786, it was a place where royal people used to spend their time. In short, it was a sophisticated space for the high class and elite society back in that time. But nowadays, Demel Cafe is open for everyone who wants a taste of their mouth-watering pastries and other items.

Their signature dishes that carry history and culture are the famous coffee, different varieties of pastries, and tarts. If you want to taste the authentic dessert in Vienna, you cannot miss Demel Cafe.

Address: Kohlmarkt 14, 1010 Wien

Opening time: Daily 10:00 am to 07:00 pm

16. Schönbrunn Palace and Gardens

Schönbrunn Palace can be the sole reason for your Vienna vacation as it is the city’s major tourist attraction. From the 18th century to 1918, the palace used to be the summer home of the Habsburg emperor.

Now it is one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites that offers visitors numerous attractions like the Carriage Museum, a huge zoo, gorgeous staterooms, the Children’s Museum, a maze, giant fountains, and many more.

You probably need a whole day to explore the vast area of Schönbrunn Palace. It’s a live example of Emperor culture and history that cannot be resisted.

Address: Schönbrunner Schloßstraße 47, 1130 Wien

Opening time: Everyday 09:00 am to 05:30 pm

Admission fee: Subject to the type of tour you choose

17. The Hofburg Palace

Undoubtedly, The Hofburg Palace is a great attraction in Vienna because of its history and architectural beauty. This palace was built in the 13th century and used as the centre of the Habsburg court. And it is the place where the Habsburgs used to live, work and rule.

Afterwards, many European royal families like Holy Roman and Austro-Hungarian lived here. Even today the palace is not only a tourist attraction but the official residence of the Austrian President.

Though the palace has countless halls and wings, only three of them are open for public visits. They are the Imperial Apartments, the Sisi Museum, and the Silver Collection .

The Imperial Apartments is also known as Kaiserappartements. Here you’ll find rooms that Queen Elizabeth and her husband used.

The Sisi Museum describes the iconic lifestyle of Empress Elizabeth.

And the Silver Collection is a collection of Imperial household objects like crockery, cooking utensils, and so on.

Address: Michaelerkuppel, 1010 Vienna

Opening time: Everyday 08:00 am to 06:00 pm

Admission fee: EUR14.00 per person

18. Schönbrunn Zoo

Are you willing to visit the world’s oldest zoo? Well, Vienna has the reputation of being the home of the oldest zoo in the world called Schönbrunn Zoo .

It’s a nearly 250 years old zoo which has the authentic imperial charm. Because of the unique blend of culture and nature, this zoo has been selected as the No. 1 zoo in Europe and a part of the UNESCO World Culture Heritage Site.

Schönbrunn Zoo has more than 700 different species of animals including giraffes, orangutans, Siberian tigers, Koalas, African elephants, meerkats, and many more.

But the star attraction of this zoo is the giant pandas. Many tourists come here only to visit these pandas as they’re so adorable to watch.

The best time to visit these animals is feeding time. To enjoy a family fun day, you should opt for the Schönbrunn Zoo.

Address: Maxingstraße 13b, 1130 Wien

Opening time: Everyday 09:00 am to 06:30 pm

Admission fee: Adults EUR22.00 & Children (6 to 18) EUR11.00

19. St. Stephen’s Cathedral

If you want to watch Vienna’s symbol, you must pay a visit to St. Stephen’s Cathedral . It’s also known as Stephansdom, or Stephanskirche and is located in the heart of Vienna.

The church was built in the 12th century but destroyed during World War II. After nearly seven years, the church has been reconstructed. And today, it’s not only the home of the Catholic archbishop but one of the best tourist attractions in Vienna.

You can ascend to its long tower to have an elegant view of Vienna. Moreover, you can also explore the cathedral treasure and catacombs crammed with assorted bones alongside urns filled with Hapsburg’s organs.

Address: Stephansplatz 3, 1010 Wien

Opening time: 24 hours

Admission fee: Free

20. Ringstrasse

Built by Emperor Franz Joseph in the 19th century, the Ringstrasse boulevard is one of the most important roads in Vienna. It’s a 5.3-kilometre-long street that houses the city’s most significant monumental buildings, palaces, and museums.

To discover the attractions of Vienna, you surely cannot resist this street because buildings like the State Opera, the National History Museum, Austrian Postal Savings Bank, and City Park all are here.

In short, the street has all the architectural masterpieces built between the 1860s and 1890s.

Address: 3500 Krems an der Donau

Opening time: Everyday 10:00 to 06:00 pm

Admission fee: EUR07.00 per person

You probably have seen a giant Ferris wheel in the movies like Before Sunrise , James Bond’s The Living Daylights, and The Third Man . That giant Ferris wheel is placed in the most famous amusement park in Vienna, Prater .

It’s a large theme park that is famous among locals as well as tourists. It has so many attractions that you can spend the whole day exploring them.

The iconic Ferris wheel is undoubtedly the biggest attraction of this park. Apart from this, the park also offers rides like roller coasters, ghost trains, and carousels.

Moreover, Prater also has a recreational park for jogging, cycling, hiking, and bike riding.

Address: 1020 Vienna

22. Natural History Museum

Vienna is an old city that has so many historical landmarks. But the Natural History Museum is the most unique and important of its kind in the whole world.

Located on Ringstrasse road just in front of the Kunsthistorisches Museum, the museum has nearly 30 million objects in its collection. From prehistoric art, stuffed animals, and dinosaurs to precious stones, everything is remarkably displayed in its 39 exhibition rooms.

You can not only learn so much from their exhibition but also get an experience of being in the beautiful palace.

Address: Burgring 7, 1010 Wien

Opening time: Wednesday to Monday 09:00 am to 06:30 pm (closed on Tuesday)

23. Danube Tower

If you want to have a 360-degree view of the city and its landmarks, you can opt for the Danube Tower . It’s a 150-metre high tower that is located in Donau Park close to Uno City on the banks of the Danube.

The tower was built in the 1960s to give visitors an astonishing view of the surroundings. At the same time, it’s a perfect place to have a sip of cappuccino as there are many restaurants and cafes located in this area.

Moreover, you can swim or can do stand-up paddling on the river. Hiking and cycling are also good options for exploring Danube Island.

Address: Donauturmplatz 1, 1220 Wien

Opening time: Everyday 10:00 am to 11:30 pm

24. Haus des Meeres

A former defence tower that was used to stop bombers with flak cannons can be turned into a beautiful aquarium, and you won’t believe it until you see the Haus des Meeres . This aquarium is one of the best attractions in Vienna that has nearly 10,000 sea and land animals like fish, amphibians, reptiles, birds, and monkeys.

The highlights of Haus des Meeres are the huge sharks, crocodiles, and free-spirited monkeys. Moreover, the top floor of the building has a rooftop cafe to give you a breathtaking view over Vienna with a warm cup of coffee.

Address: Fritz-Grünbaum-Platz 1, 1060 Wien

Opening time: Everyday 09:00 am to 08:00 pm

Admission fee: Adults EUR18.90 & children EUR14.10

25. Burgtheater

Vienna has a lot of history to unveil, and Burgtheater is one of them. The theatre carries the symbol of Vienna’s rise, fall and rise again. The institution was established during the 1740s and then damaged by fire in 1945. Nevertheless, it was rebuilt in 1955.

The current building is an architectural masterpiece that will teach you about the history of the world-renowned theatre. The interior design of this theatre is remarkable, especially its grand staircases and ceiling paintings.

Now these days, Burgtheater is one of the world’s most renowned theatres because of its cultural richness and historical significance.

Address: Universitätsring 2, 1010 Wien

Vienna offers so many attractions to its visitors that you will feel overwhelmed. It is a city that offers European tradition and culture to its visitors in the form of museums, fantastic buildings, sophisticated markets, and elegant parks. So, make sure you utilise your time by exploring the beauty and wonder of Vienna.

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Top Things to Do

20 Top Things to Do in Vienna, Austria

TripSavvy / Christopher Larson 

One of Europe’s most beautifully preserved historic capitals, Vienna is a destination every traveler should aim to see at least once. Situated at the edge of Western Europe, only miles from Slovakia and the Czech Republic, the opulent, old-world metropolis manages to feel at once timeless and boldly contemporary.

It’s the sort of city where, in a single stroll, you might pass by horse-drawn carriages and stumble on the coolest contemporary art museum you’ve ever visited. And while the pace in Vienna is certainly more relaxed than more frantic Berlin, Paris or London , there’s a ton to see and do. Admire opera houses and imperial palaces; party in nightclubs, or hunker down for an afternoon in an ornate museum or gourmet coffee house.

Visit the Hofburg Palace Complex

Ursula Schmitz / TripSavvy

Situated in the historic center of Vienna, the Hofburg Palace is a stunning testament to the former Imperial power that once led much of Europe from the Austrian capital.

The vast complex—extending over 2.5 million square feet to comprise 18 wings, 19 courtyards, and 2,600 rooms—offers a glimpse into both the history and present day of Vienna. It has evolved from a medieval fortified castle into an imperial palace and is now one of the seats of democratic government, making it one of Europe's oldest and most enduring places of power. 

Until 1918 and the end of World War I, the Palace was the headquarters and main winter residence of the Imperial Monarchy; the powerful Habsburgs reigned here for some six centuries starting in the 13th century. Today, the Hofburg remains central to the Austrian government, housing the offices of the President as well as state ministers and secretaries of state. 

Most of the complex is worth exploring on a first visit, but there are three main highlights to focus your attention on: 

Imperial Apartments: If you've visited Versailles in Paris , you can already imagine the sort of opulence that awaits in the historic Imperial apartments of the Austrian emperors and empresses of old. The current furnishings, which mostly date to the mid-19th century and 18th century, are spread across several incredibly lavish rooms . Visitors can get a good sense of how Imperial rulers spent their days, exploring rooms such as the study, lavatory and bathroom, dining room, salons, audience chambers, and bedrooms. 

Sisi Museum:  Named after the beloved Austrian Empress Elisabeth whose nickname was "Sisi," this collection of some 300 artifacts pays tribute to a powerful ruler whose legend has only grown over the decades. It traces the life of the empress from her childhood in the Imperial court to her death at the hand of an assassin in Switzerland in 1898. Elegant dresses and jewels, parasols, fans and gloves, and even her personal medical trunk and death certificate make up the intriguing permanent collection.  

Silver Collection: Some 7,000 items of fine silver and historic tableware are displayed in this collection, inviting visitors to close their eyes and imagine the lavish, elaborate banquets that took place for many centuries on the same premises. 

If you're also planning on visiting  Schönbrunn Palace , the opulent historic abode of the imperial Hapsburg clan, you may want to consider purchasing a "Sisi Ticket."  The ticket gives you combined entry to the Hofburg Palace and Schönbrunn Palace which houses the Imperial Furniture Collection. Overall, this reduces entry prices by about 25 percent, so it's well worth it.

Getting There:   The Hofburg can be accessed from the U3 (Orange) underground line; get off at Herrengasse and follow the signs to the entrance. You can also take Tram line 1, 2, D and 71 (get off at Burgring). 

Explore the Museumsquartier

Although Vienna is deeply associated with classical traditions in art, music, and architecture, it's also a hotbed of current artistic creation, home to an unusual number of modern art museums, theaters, and art schools. The Museumsquartier is definitely the place to be if you want to experience the city's vibrant contemporary art scene, as well as take in modern masterpieces from Austrian artists such as Gustav Klimt and Egon Schiele. 

Around 70 different museums, galleries, theaters, dance halls, cultural associations, cafes, and restaurants make up this vast complex in the city center, warranting a full morning or afternoon of exploration. Don't let the Baroque-era facade fool you: Inside, the style is far more eclectic and contemporary, with airy, bright gallery spaces, colorful modern sculptures, and spaces to sit, lounge and soak up some artistic inspiration. Frequented by students and young people, the Museumsquartier is usually packed, especially in the summer months when the long days draw locals to come to hang out for hours in the outside areas. 

Must-see museums in the complex include the Leopold Museum, which boasts a collection of Austrian Symbolist and Expressionist art and works from the famed Secession movement , led by Gustav Klimt. The museum also holds the world's largest and most precious collection of works by Egon Schiele, one of Austria's most beloved modern painters. 

To plunge into Vienna's vibrant current-day artistic scene, meanwhile, the Kunsthalle Wien holds regular exhibits highlighting some of the most innovative and talented contemporary artists, both from Austria and from around the globe. 

Spend an Afternoon at a Cafe

TripSavvy / Dorian Lee 

Coffee and traditional coffeehouses are very serious business in Vienna. In 2011, UNESCO even named the city's centuries-old cafe culture a World Heritage Site.

There's something charmingly old-world about enjoying a strong coffee, whether black or a melange (a local drink resembling a cappuccino), while reading a newspaper and taking in the low din of chatter and clanking dishes that fill Vienna's classic old cafes. Enjoying a slice of cake is also a strong tradition at these institutions (when in Vienna, counting calories is not a good idea if you're after an authentic experience). 

Traditional marble tables or cozy booths, heavy curtains to keep out the cold, oh-so-civilized coatracks, warm woodwork, old photos on the walls, and vintage lamps are typical fixtures in most traditional Viennese cafes. Some of the more popular, and iconic, coffeehouses to beeline for include Café Prückel, Cafe Central (whose famous patrons have included Sigmund Freud) and Cafe Ritter .

Taste Two Rivalling Viennese Cakes

Igor Golovniov / EyeEm / Getty Images

Remember that eating cake is an essential part of any first trip to Vienna? One delicious task is to compare rival chocolate cakes at Hotel /Cafe Sacher and Cafe Demel . This is a decades-long rivalry that the Viennese love to cultivate since it fuels tourism—not to mention obliging us to compare ultra-rich tortes. 

Here's the story in a nutshell: The Hotel Sacher claims to have invented the signature "Sachertorte" that bears its name, a dense chocolate sponge cake with thin layers of apricot jam, topped with a cold, firm chocolate icing. This seems legitimate; Chef Sacher is believed to have concocted the cake for the first time in 1832. 

Later, the Cafe Demel, known for its own luxurious baked goods and excellent tearoom, created its version of the quintessential Viennese cake, dubbing it Demels Sachertorte. Legal disputes followed, but after a while, Demel had gained a dedicated following convinced that this version of the cake, featuring one rather than two layers of apricot jam, was superior to Sacher's original. Long before reality television, this was perhaps the very first "cake war" and it continues to this day.

Visit St. Stephen's Cathedral

This breathtaking Gothic cathedral is one of Europe's loveliest. It boasts an eclectic mish-mash of architectural and decorative styles that reflect many renovations over hundreds of years. Most recently, the interiors were modified during the Baroque period. 

Construction began during the 12th century, and the flamboyant high-gothic style is readily apparent in the Cathedral's four towers, one of which houses an impressive 13 bells. The enormous Pummerin bell is the second-largest chimed church bell in Europe and is situated in the North Tower. Remarkable views over the entire city can be appreciated from the towers, especially the South. 

The Cathedral's distinctive colored tiles that decorate its roof form the pattern of the Vienna coat of arms and the Imperial double-headed Eagle. 

In addition to visiting the Cathedral and its lovely towers, the onsite crypt and catacombs are fascinating for their notable tombs. Emperor Friedrich III and other Imperial leaders are buried here, alongside numerous cardinals and bishops. 

Getting There: From the city center, Take the U-Bahn Line U3 to Stephansplatz. 

Watch a Performance at the Vienna State Opera

Ursula Schmitz / TripSavvy 

For anyone with a passion for opera, Vienna is an essential destination. A reigning symbol of the Austrian capital's distinguished musical heritage and elegance, the State Opera stands proudly on one of the city's busiest and most central streets. As home to the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra, some of the world's finest classical music, opera and ballet performances are staged here. 

Whether you choose to simply admire the neoclassical facade (built in 1869 under the reign of Emperor Francis Joseph I) or enjoy one of the 350 performances that animate the stage each year, the Opera remains an essential sight in a city passionate about classical music. 

Getting There: The Opera is served by tram lines 1,2, 62, 71 and D; the stop is Kartner Ring-Oper. You can also take the U-Bahn Line U2 to Karlsplatz, then walk about five minutes. 

Sample Local Treats at Naschmarkt

 Ursula Schmitz / TripSavvy

This permanent open-air market is one of the coolest (and tastiest) places to hang out in the city, beloved by all age groups and frequented morning, noon and night. If it's fresh produce, cheese, meat, bread, or high-quality spices you're after, the market stalls here offer some of Vienna's very best. Dozens of vendors peddling everything from fresh fruit to olives, kraut and sausages, and other local specialties have been joined in more recent years by stalls selling international delicacies (Japanese, Turkish, Moroccan, Eastern European, and many others). 

This is also a favorite local spot for coffee or a casual evening meal; several laid-back restaurants and cafes operate on the premises, many with outdoor seating in the warmer seasons. In the spring or summer, enjoying a beer or casual dinner at the Naschmarkt is one of the most authentic things you can do. Just try to arrive on the early side to secure a table; it's not unusual to see crowded tables even on weekdays. 

The market is open Monday to Saturday, with most stalls opening at 7 a.m. and closing at 7 p.m. (5 p.m. on Saturday). Onsite cafes and restaurants have separate opening times, but many are closed on Sunday as well. 

Getting There: Take the U-Bahn (Underground) Line U4 to Karlsplatz and follow the signs to the market. 

Tour Schönbrunn Palace

TripSavvy / Alisha McDarris

Often compared to Versailles, Schönbrunn Palace served as the summer residence of the powerful Habsburgs and exemplifies the wealth and power enjoyed by the Royal Imperial family. 

First established as an Imperial hunting lodge in the late 17th century, it was significantly expanded upon during the 18th to become a permanent summer residence under the powerful Empress Maria Theresa, mother of Marie Antoinette. 

The Grand Tour of the palace takes you through some 40 opulent rooms and offers an in-depth look at the life and reign of the Hapsburgs, from their most private daily affairs to the political intrigues that filled the palace walls. The Imperial Apartments are especially striking.

The lovely, expansive formal gardens at the palace are also essential, particularly in the spring, when thousands of flowers and trees blossom and bring to life the eye-catching landscapes. The gardens were named a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1996. There's even an onsite vineyard, reflecting Vienna's history as a maker of distinctive local white wines. 

Tickets & Getting There:  ​ Visit the official website for practical information on the Palace and to purchase tickets online. Three forms of public transportation take you right up to the palace and have Schönbrunn-marked stops.

• Underground:  U4
• Trams:  10 and 60

Relax in the Prater, Vienna's Biggest Park

Taylor McIntyre / TripSavvy

This vast, leafy park is the biggest within Vienna's city limits and is a favorite place for locals to head in the summer for picnics, Ferris wheel rides, and other amusement park attractions. The enormous complex also boasts an onsite cinema, Madame Tussauds wax museum, cafes and restaurants, a nightclub, and a bowling alley. 

Dominating the park and the skyline of the adjoining Leopoldstadt neighborhood, the enormous Ferris wheel dates to 1897, and is one of Europe's largest. Entry to the Prater is free; individual rides and attractions will set you back a few Euros but are reasonably priced. 

Head here in the warmer spring and summer months to get some outdoor activities in and enjoy a lazy picnic on the grass, or rent bikes for a morning or afternoon, taking advantage of the bike paths that wend through the park. The park is open year-round, and in the autumn and winter months can still offer a pleasant walk or a day of fun and distraction for the whole family. 

Getting There:  The main entrance to the Prater is located on an enormous traffic circle known as the Praterstern ; get off at this station from Metro lines U1 or U2. You may also take tram line O and 5 to the end of the line to reach the park. 

Cruise the Danube River

A boat cruise of the Danube river allows you to see the city from a different vantage, appreciating its lovely architecture and intriguing blend of Western and Eastern European cultural influences. You can either take a short sightseeing cruise that keeps you more or less within the Viennese city limits or opt for a full day on the water. Many tourists opt to stop in the lush Wachau Valley 30 minutes outside the city, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. From there, wine tasting and bike tours, a visit to a medieval Abbey, or tours on foot of the breathtaking valley make for an ideal day trip. 

Take the opportunity to see the nearby Slovakian capital of Bratislava , traveling from Vienna to its sister capital only 34 miles away by boat. Particularly if you don't have time for another day trip, this can be an excellent way to make a short foray into Eastern Europe. 

Several companies offer boat cruises and high-speed catamaran trips from and around Vienna, but DDSG Blue Danube  is the most popular and trusted.

See the Lipizzaner Stallions Perform

Spanische Hofreitschule

The world-famous Lipizzaner Stallions put on a show of equestrian excellence set to classical Viennese music at the Winter Spanish Riding School ( Spanische Hofreitschule ) located in the Hofburg Palace.

These performances are the culmination of years of training for both the rider and their horses. Visitors can see a performance and take a guided tour of the Winter Spanish Riding School. You'll find the visitor center at Michaelerplatz in the Hofburg (under the Michaelerkuppel).

Tickets: Tickets for performances and tours are available online . Getting There:   The Hofburg can be accessed from the U3 (Orange) underground line; get off at Herrengasse. You can also take Tram line 1, 2, D and 71 (get off at Burgring). The entrance to the Spanish Riding School is at Josefsplatz.

Visit the Neo-Gothic City Hall

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Vienna's town hall ( Wiener Rathaus ) was built in the 1800s in a Neo-Gothic style similar to the Brussels town hall. The Rathaus has five towers, with the iconic Rathausman statue topping the tallest.

You can take a free guided tour of the inside of the lavish Town Hall on designated days, usually Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays at 1 p.m. The Information Center in the town hall is open Monday to Friday from 07:30 a.m.– 6:00 p.m.

Getting There: Take the Metro U2 and get off at station Rathaus.

Spend Time at the Zoo

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On the grounds of the Schönbrunn Palace, you'll find Vienna's Zoo ( Tiergarten Schönbrunn), the oldest continuously operating zoo in the world originally founded as an imperial menagerie in 1752. You can stroll the lovely grounds and see some of the original buildings as well as modern animal habitats and displays.

Approximately 8,500 animals live in the zoo representing more than 700 animal species including a giant panda, giraffes, and sea lions as well as smaller beings such as ants and exotic spiders.

The zoo has scheduled educational sessions, a simulated Amazon rainforest environment to walk through, and snack bars and cafes where you can rest.

Getting There: Schönbrunn Zoo has several entrances. The main entrance— Hietzing —is close to the U4 underground station Hietzing. The Schönbrunn Palace Gardens are reached via the Hietzinger Tor and then you just follow the pathway between the Palm House and the Desert House.

Stroll the Gardens at Belvedere Palace

TripSavvy / Deanna Mazzola

Visit the beautiful French gardens and ornate buildings of Belvedere Palace where such notable Austrians as Prince Eugene of Savoy and Archduke Franz Ferdinand once lived. The impressive Baroque buildings house a collection of Austrian art including works by Gustav Klimt.

Belvedere Palace and grounds are open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Guided tours are available. Tickets can be purchased online .

Getting There: Belvedere Palace is located southeast of the  Innere Stadt,  between the Wieden and Landstrasse districts. The nearest public transportation is the tram where you'll get off at Quartier Belvedere .

Dine With a View

Sofitel, Accor Hotels

Das Loft on the Sofitel Hotel's 18th floor is a glass-walled restaurant and lounge with an amazing bird's eye view of Vienna. Floor-to-ceiling glass windows make it easy to see Vienna’s iconic St. Stephen's Cathedral, the Danube river, and the city skyline. At night the amazing 21,500-square-foot illuminated ceiling swirls like a piece of impressionist art.

Get Sweet at the Honey Boutique

TripSavvy / Dorian Lee

Those who adore local honey won't want to miss the Wald & Wiese specialty boutique where honey and honey-related products are sold. But what's really interesting is where the honey comes from. Over 5,000 bee colonies and 600 bee-keepers harvest honey from Vienna's rooftop hives including from the Rathaus, Staatsoper, Kunsthistorisches Museum Vienna , and some of the famous hotels. You can shop for honey and products made with honey (as well as seasonal truffle-related products) and taste honey-based beverages including mead and honey-and-whiskey liqueur.

Getting There: Wald & Wiese has four locations in Vienna.

Enjoy Wiener Schnitzel

 Mlenny/Getty Images

Wiener schnitzel, the national dish of Austria, is known far and wide as a staple in German-American restaurants. But you can have the real thing in Vienna. You'll find veal or pork schnitzel with sides of lettuce salad, potato salad, boiled potatoes or fries and usually accompanied by a slice of lemon. Restaurants with traditional Austrian food will have Wiener schnitzel on the menu. Schnitzelwurt  at Neubaugasse 52, 1070, serves some 15 varieties of schnitzel including pork, chicken, and turkey and is a favorite of both locals and tourists.

Go Wine Tasting

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Vienna's winemaking history dates back to the twelfth century and today, Vienna's wine country produces mostly crisp whites such as Riesling. To go wine tasting, you don't need to leave the city as there are an estimated 180 wine taverns and wine bars around the city and in the suburbs.

The Vienna Heurigen Express,  which looks like a little train, offers a Hop-on, Hop-off tour through the vineyards and wineries close to Vienna.

Bike Around Vienna

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Rent from City Bike Vienna  and your first hour of exploring the city on two wheels is free with the second costing only €1 (there's a one-time registration fee of €1). Pick up a bike at a street rack and then carefully return the bike to another rack. You can use your credit card at over 120 bike stations. Vienna has bike lanes, making it fairly easy to get around.

Get Romantic on the Ferris Wheel

George Pachantouris/Getty Images

Wiener Riesenrad, Vienna's giant Ferris wheel, will give you some great views but it can also be the setting for a romantic evening. The wheel, located at the fairgrounds, has a special cabin that couples can rent for an hour or so, sip some Champagne, and even have a romantic candlelight dinner served.

For something really special, book a romantic crystal dinner  for two in the Crystal Wagon decorated with Swarovski crystals and, before you leave, open your little Swarovski crystal gift.

Getting There: Take the Metro: U1, U2 - (Praterstern station), the urban railway: S1-S3, S7, S15 Wien Nord (Vienna North) or the tram: 0, 5.

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Things to do in Vienna, Austria: 32 Incredible Attractions

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Are you wondering what to do in Vienna? Known for its imperial palaces and stunning architecture, Vienna is a wonderful European city. Located on the East of the Danube River, there are so many wonderful things to do in Vienna.

It’s the perfect city break and can also be easily visited as part of a multi-city trip around Europe. Known for being rather a fancy city (and certainly not the cheapest place to visit in Europe!), Vienna is full of classic history, music, museums and rather an upscale charm.

In fact, it wouldn’t look entirely out of place in a fancy, period drama!  

However, once you look past the royal exterior, Vienna hides a vibrant social life, and stylish dining scene. Plus, having topped every quality of life survey in recent years, it has some extremely cheerful locals!

My favourite Travel resources for Vienna

✅ H ere,’s the best hotel in Vienna ✅ Don’t miss t he Giant Ferris Wheel Ride and the Upper Belvedere Palace ✅ Don’t forget your travel insurance

32 Best Things to Do in Vienna

So, if you’ve been thinking of visiting the Austrian capital, what are you waiting for? Here are the 23 best things to do in Vienna. I’ve also included the prices of each attraction, so you know exactly what your trip to Vienna will cost.

1. Admire St. Stephen’s Cathedral

Cost : Free to enter, but €6 to enter the catacombs, €6 to climb the North Tower, and €5.5 to climb the South Tower, per adult.

Easily one of the most beautiful buildings in Vienna, St Stephen’s Cathedral sits in the heart of Stephensplatz. It’s actually the most important church in the whole of Austria, and this is no surprise considering its size and beauty.

Inside the cathedral, you’ll find a few smaller chapels, 18 alters, tombs and catacombs, which should hopefully give you an indicator of its impressive size! The bell in the tower is also the second-biggest free-swinging chimed church in all of Europe! 

St Stephen’s Cathedral is decorated with a beautiful tiled roof mosaic – a stunning example of Gothic and Romanesque architecture. The building has been standing for over 700 years and Mozart actually held his wedding there in 1782!

As such an incredible building, you won’t want to miss St Stephen’s Cathedral on your Vienna itinerary and it’s definitely one of the best things to do in the city.

✅ Book tickets for St Stephen’s Cathedral

2. Visit Rathaus, Vienna’s Impressive Town Hall

Cost : Free

As Vienna is so full of impressive buildings, it’s not entirely shocking that their city hall is a lot more beautiful than your average structure. The city’s town hall is located on Rathausplatz and is another stunning example of the late Gothic style.

Built in the 1800s, Rauthus is a similar style to the town hall in Brussels . The bottom of the building is covered in magnificent archways. The top has 5 towers, the middle being the tallest and topped with a signature Rauthausman figurine.  

If you’re interested in knowing more about the history of Rauthus, there are guided tours available on certain days. This is extremely worthwhile for anyone curious about the architectural style, as well as the building’s impressive past. 

3. Hofburg Palace

Cost : €17.50 per adult

A little bit like going to France and not seeing the Eiffel Tower , you can’t visit Austria and not see the Hofburg Palace. Another of Vienna’s most incredible structures, the imperial palace used to be the heart of the Austro-Hungarian Empire.

Even today it is still in use and serves as the headquarters of the country’s presidency. But you can still look around, as it’s been expanded a lot to include many fascinating museums. 

As well as the Palace’s beautiful interior, the exterior is just as stunning as traditional 13th-century Baroque architecture. Located right across from Heroes’ Square (Heldenplatz), the palace will cost you €17.5 to enter.

For that price, you’ll get, a guided tour, entrance to the Museum, the Imperial Apartments and the stately Silver Collection. It’s a pretty impressive sight and one of the top things to do in Vienna.

✅ Book tickets for the Hofburg Palace

4. Visit the Schönbrunn Palace

Cost : €29 per adult

One of the most famous palaces in Vienna, a trip to the Schönbrunn Palace, should be high on your Vienna itinerary. Located on the outskirts of the city, the Schönbrunn Palace is a wonderful sight and well worth the journey.

You can easily reach it either via train or on the Vienna Sightseeing Bus if you have a ticket.  

Previously the residence of both the Habsburgs and Sissi the Empress, the imperial palace has been standing since the 1600s and holds major cultural importance in Austria.

Another example of Baroque architecture, the palace is ginormous! It actually has 1441 rooms inside as well as the magnificent gardens. 

There is so much more than just a palace here and you can easily spend an entire day wandering the Schönbrunn Palace complex. Enjoy a tour through the main palace and see how the royalty used to live. Also, don’t forget to explore the impressive museum too! 

Top Tip: Try to get here early. This place can get incredibly busy; we made the mistake of getting there at midday and spending a long time queuing.

✅ Book tickets for the Schönbrunn Palace

5. Visit the Kunsthistorisches Museum

Cost : Fron €15 per adult

The Kunsthistorisches Museum is a magnificent institution that showcases the rich cultural heritage of Vienna.

Housed within a beautiful, neo-Renaissance palace, the museum is as much a masterpiece outside as it is inside. It’s mostly known for its exceptional collection of art and historical artefacts. 

Founded in 1891, it boasts an extensive array of artworks from various renowned artists such as Rembrandt, Vermeer, and Titian. The museum’s stunning architecture, with its grand marble columns and intricate details, is pretty breathtaking.

Inside, you’ll find a striking interior, adorned with grand marble columns, intricate stucco work, and a magnificent central dome, that enhances the overall experience.

The Kunsthistorisches Museum is one of the best things to do in Vienna, especially for art enthusiasts and history buffs.

✅ Book tickets for the Kunsthistorisches Museum

6. See Vienna State Opera House

Cost : Tickets to shows cost between €5 and €150

Even if you’re not personally into Opera, you won’t want to miss this impressive building! The city is well known, not just for its historic buildings, but for its music culture and events. The opera is a delightful and unique combination of sound and performance. 

As well as the obvious class of the Opera House, the architecture of the building is just as impressive. Inside, you’ll find deep red velvet chairs decked out with ornamental gold trimmings. The exterior is encircled with arched windows in a Neo-Renaissance style and finished with a classic European bright green roof.  

If you do fancy watching a performance, then I seriously recommend you book your tickets in advance. Because of the popularity of the Opera, tickets can sell out well before the date, so check what’s on before you travel.

If Opera isn’t your thing, then I still recommend looking inside. You can book a 40-minute guided tour of the Opera House where you will learn a lot about the history of the performances as well as the importance of the art culture in Austria. 

✅ Book a concert in the Vienna Opera House

7. Visit the Sisi Museum

Cost : € 17.50 per adult

A dedication to the life of the renowned Empress Elisabeth of Austria, affectionately known as ‘Sisi’, this museum offers a unique glimpse into the enigmatic world of one of the most iconic figures in European history.

The museum is almost like a walk round of her life. You can explore the elegant rooms and personal possessions of the empress, and gain insight into her complex character, love for poetry, and enduring fascination with travel and the arts.

The Sisi Museum also contains personal artefacts, including her gowns, letters, and even the very instrument she used for her daily exercise routines.

✅ Book tickets to the Sisi Museum

8. Ride Vienna’s Giant Ferris Wheel

Cost : €13 per adult

One of my favourites and definitely the best things to do in Vienna is to take a trip to Prater Amusement Park to ride the Giant Ferris Wheel. The wheel is to Austria what the London Eye is to London . Originally built in 1897, it’s also a wonderful flashback to the past. 

Spending a day at the amusement park is so much fun. The park itself is free the enter and you have to pay for each ride and activity separately.

However, if you have purchased the Vienna Card (which I highly recommend), then you’ll get the Ferris Wheel for free. As well as being one of Vienna’s most iconic landmarks, you won’t be able to resist the charm of the old wheel. The views over the city from the top are well worth the ride.

✅ I recommend purchasing the Vienna Card

9. Climb the South Tower

Cost : €3.50 per adult

Located within St Stephen’s Cathedral, this historical tower is a must-see if you enjoy panoramic city views. This Gothic masterpiece, part of the St. Stephen’s Cathedral complex, is an architectural gem that dates back to the 15th century.

Rising 68 meters high, it provides a striking view of Vienna’s skyline and offers visitors the opportunity to climb its 343 steps to take in panoramic vistas of the city. As well as the South Tower, you can also climb the neighbouring North Tower for equally magnificent views.

10. See ‘The Kiss’ at Belvedere Palace

Cost : €16.70 per adult

Austria’s most famous work of art, The Kiss is a masterpiece by Viennese painter Gustav Klimt. Displayed inside the Upper Belvedere’s galleries , which are also home to many other fabulous artworks, the painting is a must-see in Vienna and well worth a spot on your itinerary. 

‘The Kiss’ depicts a couple embracing in a meadow of flowers, and the background is a beautiful gold infused with patterns of an almost mosaic effect. A beautiful piece of art, you can also learn even more about the history of Klimt’s work with a private tour, to explore the painting in more depth.

✅ Book tickets to the Belvedere Palace

11. Explore Vienna’s Coffee Houses

Cost : Depends on how much coffee you want 😀

If you don’t try Viennese coffee whilst in Vienna, then you are seriously missing out. A visit to a traditional coffee house is easily one of the best things to do in Vienna.

Finding a coffee house in the city won’t be difficult and, if your accommodation doesn’t have breakfast, consider making this priority number one on your first day.  

Vienna’s coffee houses have created more coffee varieties than anywhere else on the planet! Order a ‘Schwarzer’ for a black coffee, a ‘Brauner’ for a black coffee with milk or a ‘Melange’ for coffee with cream.

Coffee shops are also the perfect place to sit back and enjoy the atmosphere and people-watch. Also, with all the great foods in Vienna to try, don’t pass up on a slice of cake, sausages or strudel to go with your coffee. 

12. Visit the Austrian National Library

Cost : €10 per adult

If you’re a literary addict, the Austrian National Library will be one of the best things to see in Vienna. Established in the 18th century, this magnificent institution is housed within the Hofburg Palace. It’s one of the most significant libraries in Europe. 

Boasting an extensive collection of over 12 million items, it includes rare manuscripts, historical books, maps, and an impressive array of musical scores.

The library’s grandiose architecture and ornate interiors provide a breathtaking setting for visitors, who can explore its various exhibition rooms, including the Prunksaal, a stunning Baroque State Hall.

13. Explore the Schönbrunn Zoo

Cost : €26 per adult

The oldest zoo in Europe the Schönbrunn Zoo is one of the best things to do in Austria. Created in 1752, Tiergarten Schonbrunn, or Vienna Zoo, can be found on the grounds of the Schonbrunn Palace.

It was originally a royal menagerie to house the Emperor’s collection of exotic animals but had since then branched into an impressive and caring zoo.  

You won’t need to be an animal expert to realise that the animals that live here are under exceptional care. You’ll find pandas, giraffes, sloths elephants and many other animals around the zoo and also plenty of splashes of history in the original building located on the grounds.

That combined with the more modern statues, makes Vienna Zoo a very serene and peaceful place to explore. 

✅ Book tickets for the Schönbrunn Zoo

14. Visit the Leopold Museum

Located in the city centre, the Leopold Museum is one of the best places to visit in Vienna if you love art.

Named after Rudolf and Elisabeth Leopold, whose extensive collection forms the museum’s core, it is a fantastic collection of Austrian art from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. 

The museum’s stunning architecture complements the artistic treasures perfectly, and you can easily spend your time admiring the building as well as the artwork.

The Leopold Museum is particularly known for its collection of works by the Austrian artist Egon Schiele. But it also houses masterpieces by Gustav Klimt and other prominent figures of the Viennese Secession.

15. Eat Vienna’s Famous Desserts 

Cost : Depends on how much cake you want!

Whenever I travel somewhere new, I always make a point of trying the local cuisine. In Vienna, that is definitely not hard as the city has some pretty famous and delicious desserts.

Both Sachertort and Strudel should be high on your Vienna food bucket list. Luckily, you’ll be able to locate both pretty easily. 

Sachertort is a chocolate tart, filled with apricot jam with a scrumptious chocolate topping. It is amazing and you really can’t leave Vienna without trying a slice.

The thing that shocked me most about traditional Vienesse dishes, however, was the range of strudels that you can find.

I was used to apple strudel – living in the UK , you can also find it all over the place. It’s nowhere near as flavoursome as in Austria, however. But I wasn’t expecting there to be cheese strudels, vegetable strudels, plum strudel, sour cherry strudel and so many other delicious flavours.

It certainly made choosing just one piece that little bit trickier. So, if you’re going hunting for strudel, just be warned, you may end up with a lot more than one slice! If you really can’t choose, you could even go for a strudel-tasting show at the Schonbrunn Palace.

16. Visit the Albertina Museum

Cost : From €14 per adult

One of the most impressive art museums in Europe, the Albertina Museum is easily one of the best things to do in Vienna.

It’s known for its remarkable collection of art spanning from the Renaissance to the contemporary era, and, like many of the other museums on this list, it’s also housed in a pretty impressive building. 

The museum’s extensive holdings include a vast array of drawings, graphic art, and prints, showcasing the works of celebrated artists like Albrecht Dürer, Michelangelo, and Leonardo da Vinci.

In addition to its graphic art treasures, the Albertina Museum also hosts impressive rotating exhibitions featuring various art forms, from photography to modern and contemporary art.

✅ Book tickets for the Albertina Museum

17. Vienna’s Natural History Museum

Cost : €16 per adult

If you’re interested in the history of the planet and its creatures, be sure to give Vienna’s Natural History Museum a visit. One of the most important natural museums in the world, the large building stands proud near the MuseumsQuartier. 

The impressive museum contains over 30 million species and natural artefacts. It’s understandably one of the most popular museums in the country, but, if you purchased the Vienna Card , you can actually get in for free! Inside you’ll find 39 themed rooms and an incredible fossil display.

You’ll take a journey back to the Ice Age and see the largest meteorite collection in the world. Easily one of the best things to do in Vienna, if you’re a history buff or not, you won’t want to miss this! 

18. The Spanish Riding School

Cost : Between €14 and €31 depending on what you do.

One of the most impressive institutes for classical dressage in the world, The Spanish Riding School has been a tradition in Austria for hundreds of years.

Originally opened in 1735, the training of Lipizzaner horses has been going on for hundreds of years, since the Habsburg Monarchy. Today, you can actually go and watch demonstrations and sometimes training sessions as well . 

For anyone who loves horses and riding, this is a Vienna must see. Even if you’re not a fan, it would be a shame to miss this age-old tradition from your Vienna itinerary. 

✅ Book tickets to the Spanish Riding School

19. Visit one of Vienna’s Flea Markets

For a city full of beautiful imperial palaces and gorgeous buildings, there are also a surprising amount of flea markets in Vienna.

These markets, scattered throughout the city, offer a delightful blend of antiques, vintage goods, curiosities, and a wide assortment of secondhand treasures. 

The Naschmarkt, Vienna’s largest outdoor market, is particularly renowned for its variety of stalls, including ones selling antiques, artwork, clothing, and local food specialities. At the Brunnenmarkt, a more local and authentic market, you can find a wide range of items, from unique souvenirs to vintage finds. 

These markets are not only places to shop but also to experience Vienna’s local life and soak in its charming atmosphere.

Whether you’re a collector, a bargain hunter, or just an enthusiast of street markets, Vienna’s flea markets offer a fascinating and enjoyable way to explore the city’s vibrant culture.

20. Admire the View from Donauturm Tower 

One of my favourite things to do in a city is to find the tallest building and go right to the top. Donauturm Tower is a must see in Vienna. Standing at a whopping 252 meters tall, the tower makes it onto the top 75 tallest buildings in the world.

Easily visible against the fairly low Vienna skyline, the tower is a little outside the city centre but well worth the trip for the gorgeous views.  

If you visit at sunset, you’ll be able to watch the sun sinking dramatically behind the cityscape. Also included in the Vienna Card , a trip to the tower is one of the best things to do in Vienna. It will provide you with a completely different and beautiful view of this historic city.

21. Visit an Austrian Winery

Cost: Depends on which winery you visit.

With roughly 700 hectares of vineyards in Austria, it’s safe to say they know a thing or two about fine wine. A wonderful Vienna must see is to take a guided tour around one of its many wineries.  

An incredibly sophisticated thing to add to your Vienna itinerary, sipping on some of the delicious, fruity wines will definitely end your day on a high.

Weingut Cobenzl offers a great tasting tour for just €20. Esterházykeller, a small tavern in the heart of Vienna with a lot of historical flairs, is also known for its great wines. But if you are going on a tour, just be sure to work out the way back to your hotel before you arrive.

22. See the Sigmund Freud Museum

Cost : €14 per adult

This is a museum dedicated to the works of Sigmund Freud, the founder of psychoanalysis. Freud spend 47 years living at Berggasse 19 in Vienna’s 9th district until he exiled himself to the UK in 1938 to escape the Nazis.

Today, his former apartment has been turned into a museum showcasing his finest works. You’ll find original furniture and Freud’s personal collection of antiques, autographs and rare archive footage.

✅ Book tickets for the Sigmund Freud Museum

23. Eat your way through Naschmarkt 

Cost : Once again, it depends! 🙂

I cannot get enough of street food and street markets and Naschmarkt is a fine example of one. If you love freshly cooked food, enticing scents and mingling with the locals, then you’ll love it here too. 

Located on Wienseile Street, The Naschmarkt stretches for 1.5 miles. It also sells more or less every type of food you could possibly think of! Be sure to find a baked goods stall and try a different flavour of strudel! Also taste the Wiener schnitzel, Austria’s signature dish. 

23. Ride the Vienna Ring Road

Cost : €9 for the tram per adult

A wander around Vienna’s Ringstrasse is the easiest way to admire some of the city’s grandest buildings. It was created in the Habsburg Era to connect the city’s busiest suburbs.

Even today, the Ringstrasse still serves as the main road linking the city together. It’s the ideal spot to start your journey around Vienna.

You’ll pass buildings like the Opera House, the Hofburg Palace, the National Library, the Art History, Natural History and World museums, the Burggarten, Vienna’s Parliament, the Volksgarten, the Burgtheater and the Town Hall. 

25. Wander the Schönbrunn Gardens

Cost : Included in Palace ticket

One of the most peaceful things to see in Vienna, the Schönbrunn Palace Gardens are literally beautiful.

Extending a kilometre from the palace, you could easily spend hours wandering the gardens and admiring the beautiful displays. Along the way, you can also find a hedge maze and some pretty fountains. 

26. See the Hundertwasserhaus and Museum

Cost : Free to see the house, the museum is €12 per adult

This magical and unique building has such a funky and unusual design, making it one of the most unmissable things to do in Vienna. It’s an entirely different attraction for the stately royalty of the other imperial buildings in the city. In fact, it’s the opposite and has a much more colourful and carefree vibe. 

You can’t go inside the house unless you are a tenant, however, the museum is open to the public. It will give you a much clearer insight into the designer of both of these buildings: Friedensreich Hundertwasser.

Entrance to the museum is €11 per person but worth a visit if you’re interested in learning the history behind Vienna’s most playful buildings. 

27. Cruise the Danube Canal 

Cost : €28 per adult

There’s something magical about exploring the Danube from the water and it’s definitely one of the best things to do in Vienna. There are plenty of options too.

So, whether you’re looking for a lunch cruise , a romantic champagne cruise or a dinner cruise with live music , Vienna has something for everyone! For even more fun, you can actually rent out paddle boats from the Danube Island. Then have a day of fun wandering the waterways at your own pace. 

The river was used as inspiration for a lot of poetry and art and has such a peaceful charm. It’s the perfect way to spend a day in Vienna and even wandering the river banks on foot is wonderful.

✅ I recommend this boat cruise in Vienna 

28. Swim in Vienna’s Outdoor Pools

Cost : €6 per adult (on average)

One of the more overlooked and fun things to do in Vienna is to go for a dip in one of the outdoor pools. Open mainly from the middle of May until September, they can provide relief from the scorching summer heat.

Krapfenwaldl Pool on the edge of the Vienna woods is a gorgeous pool with a view and Schönbrunner also has a great open-air pool which was creatively restored in 1920. 

You can also head to Danube Island. For something with a little less chlorine, go swimming at a natural, freshwater beach.

It’s one of the few beautiful beaches in Europe that’s actually freshwater. A day trip to the shingle-covered bay is certainly one of the best things to do in Vienna. Once you’ve finished paddling in the waves, head to one of the island’s stunning seafood restaurants to indulge in the freshest catch of the day. 

29. Visit the MuseumsQuartier 

This is where you’ll find the best museums in Vienna, without a doubt. The MuseumsQuartier is on the border of the Imperial Old City. You’ll find just about every type of Museum imaginable from the impressive Leopold Museum to the MUMOK and Zoom’s Children’s Museum and many more.

It’s more commonly known as MQ and as well as all that, there’s also a selection of trendy bars, cafés and restaurants, a sculpture park and a mini-golf course.

Plus, about 5 5-minute walk from here, you’ll find the Kunsthistorisches Museum Wien and the Naturhistorisches Museum Wien, which focus on natural history and art in the city. A historical and cultural area of Vienna, the MuseumsQuartier is one of the best places to visit in Vienna. 

30. Visit Vienna’s Christmas Markets

Cost : Depends on how much gingerbread you eat!

Vienna doesn’t just have fantastic flea markets throughout the year. The Christmas markets in Vienna are also out of this world. Easily rivalling its neighbouring Christmas markets in Germany , Vienna’s markets are on an even larger scale.

They actually have some of the largest Christmas markets in Europe , and the biggest Christkindlmarkt at Rathausplatz welcomes over 3 million people each year! 

These markets are one of the best ways to embrace the festive spirit across Europe . You’ll find a large range of treats to indulge in including hot mulled wine, creamy hot chocolate, gingerbread cookies, wiener schnitzel, and plenty of different types of strudel.

It’s also a great place to buy unique gifts such as handcrafted ornaments, knitwear, and homemade candles.

Whether it’s the beautifully decorated stalls, the sparkling Christmas trees, or the vibrant ice-skating rinks, these markets are easily one of the best things to do in Vienna.

31. Take a Day Trip to Bratislava

Cost : Trains from €18

These two beautiful capital cities in Europe are just 1 hour apart by train. They are the closest two capitals in Europe. Therefore taking a day trip to Slovakia’s capital is well worth adding to your Vienna itinerary. 

Incredibly easy to get to, Bratislava is a beautiful city to explore. if you don’t fancy getting there yourself you can also book a tour and get there by boat . A much more relaxing way to arrive than on a train!

Peaceful, and much cheaper than Vienna, be sure to visit the classic red and white of Bratislava Castle. Then, wander the cobbled old town streets, see the beautiful Michael’s Gate, and explore the gothic architecture of St Martin’s Cathedral.

It’s a gorgeous city and well worth a trip. If you have longer in Europe, it would be well worth stretching your trip into a longer stay and exploring more of Bratislava’s hidden gems. 

✅ Book a train to Bratislava from Vienna

32. Take a day trip to Budapest

Cost : Trains from €54

Slightly further afield but no less worth a visit is the beautiful city of Budapest . The train journey between the two cities takes just over a few hours, making it a convenient day trip or a weekend getaway. Plus, Budapest is a much more affordable city break than Vienna, which is always a bonus!

Budapest, known as the “Paris of the East,” features stunning architecture, historic thermal baths, and the iconic Danube River dividing the city into Buda and Pest. You can even get a river cruise from Vienna to Budapest along the Danube if you’d like. 

Must-sees in Budapest include the Buda Castle, Matthias Church, and the stunning Hungarian Parliament Building.

Don’t forget to relax in one of the city’s famous thermal baths, like the Széchenyi or Gellért Baths and indulge in the delicious Hungarian cuisine, including goulash and chimney cake.

✅ Book a train from Vienna to Budapest

Where to Stay in Vienna

Vienna is a pretty big city, and there are lots of neighbourhoods that provide great accommodation.

But to explore many of the fun things to do in Vienna, you’re going to want to base yourself reasonably close to the centre of the city. Or near to public transport links that can get you into the centre of the city.

But, on the other hand, you don’t want to be paying cray city centre prices. So, here are a few of my top recommendations for where to stay in Vienna:

• £££ – Andaz Vienna Am Belvedere – A luxury 5* hotel offering elegant rooms with beautiful views over the city. You’ll also find a spa and wellness centre, an on-site restaurant, and a convenient location next to the Military History Museum.
• ££ – Austria Trend Hotel Bosei – Stylish hotel with a clean and comfortable design in the rooms and common areas. It is located further outside the city than the others on this list but within easy reach of the city centre by train. Perfect for golf lovers and there’s a course nearby.
• ££ – BASSENA Wien Messe Prater – This hotel features a funky design, colourful common areas, and a bright design in the rooms. Comfortable beds and a great breakfast are standard, and you’ll be within easy access to Prater Amusement Park.
• £ – prizeotel Vienna City – A super comfy, affordable hotel, located close to the main train station for easy access to the centre of Vienna. They offer a great breakfast and stylishly designed rooms.

✅ Discover more of the best places to stay in Vienna

Should I Visit Vienna in 2 days or 3 days?

Personally, I’d allow 3 days to see Vienna. In 2 days, you can get a feel for the city, and visit some of the top attractions, but you won’t be able to dive into the culture and explore a few secret spots in the Austrian capital.

Plus, in a city like this, the longer the better, as the longer you have, the more time you’ll have to spend exploring places like the Schönbrunn Palace, which is a little like the Vatican Museums in Rome and can easily take a whole day on its own to explore.

What is the Best Month to go to Vienna?

I much prefer travelling in the off-season myself, as during peak summer, Europe can get unbearably crowded. Not to mention, you’ll end up with higher prices for flights and accommodation, which nobody is going to want. As such, I recommend visiting Vienna in either April , May , late September, or October .

Final Thought on What to Do in Vienna

Vienna is a wonderful weekend city break in Europe . It’s packed with so many wonderful things to do. From visiting an imperial palace to eating wiener schnitzel at a local market and devouring freshly baked pastries, the city has a lot of choices.

The best of Vienna will be especially favourable to those who love art and culture, however. The vast amount of museums in the city could keep you occupied for days!

Overall, it’s one of the best cities to visit in Europe and I hope you enjoy this list of the best places to visit in Vienna.

My favourite tools for finding cheap travel

• SKYSCANNER – For amazing flight deals.
• BOOKING.COM – For affordable hotels and accommodation.
• SAFETY WING – For affordable, reliable travel insurance.
• DISCOVER CARS – For cheap car hire around the world.
• OMIO – For trains, coaches, and transfers.
• GET YOUR GUIDE – For attractions and tours.
• AIRALO – For a global eSim that keeps you connected.

Disclosure: Some of the links above may be affiliate links that earn me a commission at no extra cost to you. If you purchase through my links – thank you so much! I only recommend products and companies that I use and love.

Alice Smith is a full-time travel blogger and content creator and the founder of Adventures of Alice. Following an unexpected redundancy from her career as a Content Marketing Specialist, she embraced her passion for exploration and turned her hobby of travel blogging into a full-time career.

From her roots near Cambridge, UK, she's ventured to over 30 countries since 2016. With a passion for the outdoors and a knack for finding the extraordinary in the ordinary, Alice is on a mission to show that budget travel can still be luxurious and that every destination, no matter how touristy, holds hidden gems.

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very good. congratulations. Guide for proper planning to visit vienna. But, I want to know about Salsburg untersbergbahn, to visit from vienna.

Hi Mohanlal, thanks for your comment and glad you found my guide helpful. Unfortunately, I’ve not actually visited Salzburg yet, so can’t currently help with this, sorry!

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Top 10 Things to Do in Vienna: Online Tickets & Tours

What are the must-see places in Vienna?  Here we feature the most popular attractions across the city. 

In Vienna, one of the most visited eastern European cities, find a rich history, gorgeous architecture and a dynamic culture. It is the place where imperial opulence meets artistic ingenuity. Explore the  magnificent architecture of Austria palaces ,  savor world-class food  and classical and baroque music, and immerse yourself in a city that effortlessly combines history and contemporary.

 Are you ready to immerse yourself in Vienna's rich cultural tapestry, revel in its gastronomic pleasures, and make memories that last a lifetime?

In this post, we've compiled a list of the Top 10 Things to Do in Vienna. It will hopefully help you make the best choices of must-do activities that you should not miss during your trip . Also find all the best online tickets and tours, as well as city tourist recommendations.

 Let’s check them below! But before, learn about the most popular city pass in Vienna.

Other Recommended Articles:

• 65 Best Things to Do in Vienna
• Best Recommended Hotels in Vienna
• Exceptional Attractions in Vienna
• Best Restaurants in Vienna
• Shopping in Vienna
• Public Transport in Vienna

Sightseeing Tip: City Pass for Vienna

The Vienna city PASS, the ultimate all-inclusive sightseeing companion, will let you discover the charm of Vienna. This practical touristic card opens up a world of possibilities, allowing you to discover the myriad facets of this captivating city.

The Vienna PASS Card gives you entry to  over 60 renowned sights , including the imperial majesty of  Schönbrunn Palace  and the creative marvels of the  Belvedere Museum . To improve your vacation, take advantage of  skip-the-line  privileges,  hop-on-hop-off bus   tours , and informative  guidebooks .

• For more information and other Vienna city pass options, please refer to our comprehensive guide:  Best City Pass for Vienna | Compare Prices & Included Activities.
• To discover the Vienna Pass card, check the details

1. Schönbrunn Palace

Prepare to become a fantastic fairytale figure at Schönbrunn Palace, the most opulent and splendorous setting in Eastern Europe.

You will admire the exquisite baroque building, take a walk through the perfectly groomed grounds, and imagine the regal whispers that once filled these corridors. Schönbrunn Palace: Where dreams come true in Vienna's enchanted embrace.

The palace's opulent Rococo interiors are well renowned for its paintings, marble sculptures, and gilded furniture. The gardens, with their fountains, statues, and maze, are also popular. The palace grounds are turned into a summertime paradise in the summer, with people enjoying the sun, swimming in the palace lake, and picnicking in the gardens.

Here are some of the  activities available at Schönbrunn Palace :

• Explore the opulent interiors of the palace.
• Take a stroll through the beautiful yards . 
• Visit the zoo at the palace.
• In the palace's theater , you may attend a concert or an opera.
• Picnic in the royal gardens.
• Take a swim at the royal lake.
• Get lost in the maze of the palace .

Schönbrunn Palace is an absolute must-see for every tourist to Vienna . It's a lovely and old location that will transport you back in time.

Best Ticket Options:

• Overview of all available ticket options for Schönbrunn Palace
• Overview of tickets for concerts in the Orangery at Schönbrunn Palace.

Find below our selection of the most booked tickets and activities at the Schönbrunn Palace:

• Get your Skip the Line Ticket to the Schönbrunn Palace & Gardens Tours
• Get your ticket to an Exclusive Evening at Schönbrunn Palace: Dinner & Concert
• Skip the Line Ticket: Schönbrunn Palace & Vienna City Tour
• Skip-the-line Tickets for Schönbrunn Zoo

Most Popular Ticket Options:

• 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 An Evening in Schönbrunn: Dinner & Concert
• Tickets for Tiergarten Schönbrunn: Zoo Skip The Line

Read our complete  Guide to Schönbrunn Palace .

2. Spanish riding school

The Spanish Riding School in Vienna is a living museum dedicated to classical dressage. The school has been teaching Lipizzaner horses Haute École, a difficult style of classical dressage, for over 400 years.

The horses of the Spanish Riding School are among the world's most beautiful and well-trained. They are admired for their grace, strength, and intellect. The school's riders are also very accomplished, and they collaborate with the horses to create a truly stunning show.

If you want to watch a genuinely unique and amazing performance, I highly recommend paying a visit to the Spanish Riding School in Vienna. It's an experience you'll never forget.

Find below a list of the attractions available of the Spanish Riding School:

• Dressage movements like as the piaffe, passage, and courbette are performed by the horses.
• The riders working in harmony and elegance with the horses
• The Winter Riding School's stunning Baroque architecture
• The opportunity to learn more about classical dressage's history

Anyone who like horses, classical music, or history should pay a visit to the Spanish Riding School .

• 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

3. Hofburg Imperial Palace

Experience the splendor of Vienna's Hofburg, a living testimony to the city's imperial heritage. As you pass through its stately gates, you will be transported to a time of richness and power. Admire the magnificent architecture, meander through verdant gardens, and discover the mysteries hidden inside the stately hallways. The Hofburg is more than simply a palace; it's a portal into Vienna's fascinating history, where legends of emperors and empresses come to life.

The Hofburg Imperial Palace is a magnificent palace complex in Vienna that has served as the Habsburgs' center of power for centuries. It is a massive and complicated network of buildings, courtyards, and gardens, as well as the Imperial Apartments , the Sisi Museum, and the Silver Collection. The Hofburg is a must-see for any tourist to Vienna, as it allows you to journey back in time and experience the splendor of the Habsburg Empire.

The Hofburg Imperial Apartments  are a magnificently designed collection of chambers originally used by Habsburg emperors and empresses. The residences are loaded with wonderful furniture, paintings, and other pieces of art, and they provide a unique look into the Habsburgs' lives

• Read more about the Hofburg Imperial Palace

The flats are accessible to the public and a famous tourist site. A visit to the Hofburg Imperial Apartments is a must for anybody interested in history, art, or the Habsburg Empire.

The Sisi Museum &  Silver Collection

The Sisi Museum in Vienna is a fascinating museum that shows the tale of Empress Elisabeth of Austria . The museum houses a collection of Elisabeth's personal things , letters, and other items, and it provides a unique look into the life of this intriguing and complicated lady.

The Hofburg Silver Collection is a stunning collection of silver, gold, and crystal dinnerware from the Habsburg court. The collection has approximately 100,000 items and is one of the world's most spectacular collections of its sort. The collection is on exhibit in Vienna's Hofburg Palace and is a must-see for any visitor to the city.

• Do you want to learn more about the Hofburg Silver Collection and The Sisi Museum ? 
• Overview of the Best Ticket Options for the Sisi Museum

Treasury of the Imperial Household

The Imperial Treasury awaits you in the Schweizertrakt, the oldest part of the Vienna Hofburg, with valuable exhibits such as precious jewels and Holy Roman Empire insignia and jewels, including the Imperial Crown and the Holy Lance , Emperor Rudolf II's crown , which later became the Austrian Imperial Crown. The Imperial Treasury , one of the most prominent parts of the Hofburg, has one of the world's most important collections.

• Get your ticket to the Imperial Treasury in the Imperial Treasury in the Hofburg Palace 
• Overview of the Best Ticket Options for the Imperial Treasury.
• Tickets for Vienna: Skip-the-Line Sisi Museum, Hofburg Palace and Gardens Tour
• Tickets for Hofburg Palace and Sisi Museum: Guided Tour
• Tickets for Sisi Museum Hofburg Vienna: Small-group Guided Tour with Priority Entrance
• Tickets for Imperial Treasury
• Tickets for Kunsthistorisches Museum & Imperial Treasury: Skip The Line

4. Prater & Vienna Giant Ferris Wheel

The Prater amusement park houses plenty of rides, activities, and eateries. The Wiener Riesenrad, or Vienna Giant Ferris Wheel, is the Prater's most famous attraction. The Ferris wheel stands 160 meters tall and provides breathtaking views of Vienna.

Any tourist to Vienna should take a trip on the Vienna Giant Ferris Wheel. It is an excellent opportunity to view the city and enjoy the bustle of the Prater. The Ferris Wheel is open all year , although it is extremely popular in the summer.

If you're looking for a fun and exciting day out , the Prater is the place to be. The Vienna Giant Ferris Wheel is a must-see site that will leave you with memories that last a lifetime.

Here are some of the activities available in the Prater:

• Take a ride on the Vienna Giant Ferris Wheel.
• Check out the many rides and attractions.
• Dine at one of the several restaurants
• Take a walk around the park.
• Take in the sights of Vienna.

The Prater is a fantastic spot to spend a day with family and friends . It's a fun and thrilling way to see the finest of Vienna.

• For more information, see our detailed articles on the Prater and the Vienna Giant Ferris Wheel .
• Ticket Overview of Popular Giant Ferris Wheel Ride
• You can get your Skip-the-cashier-desk-line Giant Ferris Wheel Ride tickets here

Most Popular Ticket:

• Tickets for Vienna's Giant Ferris Wheel: Skip The Line

5. Schönbrunn Zoo

Schönbrunn Zoo is a world-renowned zoo in Vienna . It is the world's oldest zoo , and it is home to over 700 different animal species . The zoo covers 17 hectares and is a terrific spot to spend the day with family and friends. Visitors at Schönbrunn Zoo can see elephants, lions, tigers, giraffes, and zebras, among many  other species . The zoo also features a number of educational displays and activities for visitors of all ages.

The Schönbrunn Palace area,  built by the Baroque architect Johann Bernhard Fischer von Erlach, is home to the zoo. The zoo is a major tourist attraction and an excellent location to learn about animals and their natural environments.

If you're in Vienna, don't miss a visit to Schönbrunn Zoo. It's a lovely area to watch animals and relax in nature.

Here are some of the activities available at Schönbrunn Zoo:

• View over 700 different animal species.
• Explore the zoo's numerous informative displays .
• Ride the train at the zoo.
• Enjoy a picnic lunch in the gardens of the zoo.
• Take a stroll in the gardens of Schönbrunn Palace.

Schönbrunn Zoo is an excellent choice for a day out with family and friends . If you are interested with tis pleasant, instructive, and peaceful spot you should check our article about Schönbrunn Zoo

6. Belvedere Palace

The Belvedere Palace in Vienna is a magnificent Baroque mansion . It was erected in the 17th century by Prince Eugene of Savoy and today houses an Austrian art museum. The palace is nestled in lovely grounds and is a famous tourist attraction.

The baroque palace is divided into two parts: the Lower Belvedere and the Upper Belvedere . The spectacular castle garden that links the two castles completes the fantasy castle set. Aside from the historic chambers, the museum houses Austria's most important art collection as well as the world's largest Klimt collection.  

The palace's exquisite architecture is well-known, and its art collection includes pieces by Gustav Klimt, Egon Schiele, and Oskar Kokoschka. The gardens, which include a variety of flowers, trees, and sculptures, are well worth a visit.

Belvedere Palace is an excellent spot to learn about Austrian history and art while also enjoying a day in Vienna's gorgeous surrounds.  It is a great place to spend a day with family and friends.

• More information about this pleasant destination to explore the best of Austrian culture may be found here. 
• Overview of the Best Ticket Options for Belvedere Palace
• Tickets for Belvedere Palace: Upper Belvedere
• Tickets for Belvedere Palace: Lower Belvedere
• Tickets for Belvedere 21: Museum of Contemporary Art
• Diamond Bundle: Belvedere Palace & Swarovski Crystal Worlds
• Upper Belvedere Palace: Skip The Line Ticket + Guided Tour

7. Classical Concert in Vienna

Vienna is a city of music, and there are several possibilities to see classical concerts in great halls . The Musikverein's golden hall celebrates the world's most known orchestras with its exceptional acoustics , while St. Peter's Church has been a preferred setting for organ recitals for generations. Another exquisite rococo baroque church that holds concerts and operas is the Karlskirche. Whatever your taste in classical music, Vienna is likely to have a concert or opera to suit you. You'll appreciate the appeal of classical music and entertainment in Vienna while feeling the ambiance of these old places.

Some of the most famous concert halls in Vienna include:

• St. Peter's Church: This Baroque church is one of the oldest and most beautiful in Vienna. It hosts a variety of classical concerts throughout the year.
• Golden Hall: This concert hall is located in the Musikverein, one of the most prestigious concert halls in the world. It is known for its excellent acoustics and its beautiful Renaissance Revival architecture.
• Karlskirche : This rococo church is another beautiful venue for classical concerts. It is known for its ornate interior and its large dome.
• The Vienna State Opera : is a landmark in Vienna and one of the most significant opera theaters in the world.

If you enjoy classical music , Vienna is a must-see trip. The city boasts a thriving music culture, with lots of shows to pick from. So, what are you holding out for? Purchase your tickets today and enjoy the enchantment of classical music in Vienna, follow the links below!

• Vienna Vivaldi Four Seasons Concert in Karlskirche
• Mozart Strauss Concert at the Golden Hall
• Mozart and Strauss Concert in Vienna's Kursalon music hall
• St Peter’s Church Concert
• 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

8. Stephansdom Cathedral

Stephansdom is the Heart of Vienna , Austria's most renowned landmark. It is a Gothic cathedral that has stood for more than 700 years . The cathedral is a major tourist attraction because of its gorgeous architecture, religious significance, and numerous historical treasures.

Stephansdom, located in the centre of Vienna , is a popular destination for both locals and tourists. Stephansdom is well-known for its stunning architecture and numerous ancient treasures .  The church has a number of graves, including Emperor Frederick III's. There are also some lovely stained-glass windows and a big organ that is almost 500 years old in the cathedral.

The cathedral is a popular wedding venue, as well as a venue for concerts and other events . If you're feeling romantic even you can  get married at the cathedral 

If you are in Vienna, make time to see Stephansdom. It is a wonderfully magnificent structure that is a terrific opportunity to learn about Vienna's history and culture.

Here are some of the things you can do at Stephansdom:

• Visit the cathedral and admire the architecture
• See the tombs of Emperor Frederick III and other important figures
• Listen to a concert on the cathedral's organ
• Take a walk around the cathedral and enjoy the views of Vienna

Read more details about the place of worship, its highlights and history in our article about St. Stephen's Cathedral .

Unlock the Wonders of St. Stephen's Cathedral & Dom Museum Wien with Enriching Audio Guides!   Secure your tickets now and immerse yourself in Vienna's rich history.

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

9. Hop on Hop off Bus Tour

Vienna is an attractive city with much to offer visitors. It might be difficult to know where to begin , and if you are short on time , it can be difficult to see everything . The Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Bus Tour comes in handy here.

The Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Bus Tou r is the ideal way to experience everything Vienna has to offer. You may get on and off the bus as many times as you like and tour the city at your own leisure with over 30 stops.

The bus also offers a commentary in many languages, allowing you to learn about Vienna's history and culture as you ride. If you become weary of riding the bus, y ou can always get off and walk about.

With a Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Bus Tour , you can:

• See all the major attractions , including the Hofburg Palace, the Schönbrunn Palace, and the St. Stephen's Cathedral
• Learn about Vienna's rich history and culture with the onboard commentary
• Get off and explore at your own pace
• Enjoy the views of Vienna from the comfort of a double-decker bus

These tickets guarantee a memorable tour through Vienna's rich history and cultural magnificence , with the convenience of several routes and informative guides. The ability to tour the city in the most convenient and thorough manner possible 

The Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Bus Tour is an excellent way to see Vienna while also saving time . Tickets can be purchased online or at bus stations. So, what are you holding out for? 

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

10. Kunsthistorisches Museum

The Kunsthistorisches Museum , located in the centre of Vienna, is one of the world's best art museums. The museum's collection contains about 800,000 items of art ranging from ancient Egypt to the nineteenth century.

The Kunsthistorisches Museum is a must-see for any art enthusiast. The museum's breathtaking collection is enormous and diverse, and it contains some of the world's most famous pieces of art dispatched in numerous galleries. Its structure itself is a work of beauty worth the visit.

The museum's collection is divided into several departments, including Egyptian and Near Eastern Antiquities, Greek and Roman Antiquities, Islamic Art, Painting, Sculpture and Applied Arts. Among the  most popular exhibitions in the museum are: 

• The Egyptian Collection:  This collection includes over 40,000 artifacts from ancient Egypt, including mummies, sarcophagi, and jewelry.
• The Greek and Roman Collection:  This collection includes over 20,000 artifacts from ancient Greece and Rome, including statues, vases, and jewelry.
• The Italian Renaissance Collection:  This collection includes over 10,000 works of art from the Italian Renaissance, including paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts.
• The Raphael Rooms:  These rooms contain a series of frescoes painted by Raphael and his workshop. The frescoes depict scenes from the lives of the Apostles Peter and Paul.
• The Titian Room:  This room contains a number of paintings by Titian, including his famous painting "The Assumption of the Virgin."
• The Velázquez Room: This room contains a number of paintings by Velázquez, including his famous painting "Las Meninas."

Read our tips before visiting the Kunsthistorisches Museum in Vienna:

• Give yourself plenty of time to tour the museum. The collection is extensive, and seeing everything can take many hours.
• Put on some comfortable sneakers. You'll be moving around a lot.
• Bring your camera. You will want to save your memories of this magnificent museum.
• Purchase your tickets in advance. This will assist you in avoiding long queues.

For more information, see our complete guide to the Kunsthistorisches Museum .

• Entrance Ticket to the Kunsthistorisches Museum in Vienna

Most Popular Ticket Option:

• Kunsthistorisches Museum - KHM : Skip The Line Entry Ticket

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When is the best time to travel? What is the best district  to stay in Vienna?  How do I get to the city easily from the airport? Are there special public transport  tickets for travelers?

Is there a list of good hotels ?  What should I eat? The answers are in our guide to planning a trip to Vienna . 

City passes are available for admission to the sights in Vienna.  With these passes it is often possible to bypass the line or get a discounted entrance fee.

City Tickets:   An overview of the City Passes we support is here. 

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14 Things To Do In Vienna: Complete Guide To Austria's Beautiful Capital City

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Top Things To Do In Vienna

Nestled on the River Danube, Vienna is known for its stunning architecture, rich history, classical music, and world-class museums. The contrasting styles of Vienna's Roman Baroque architecture from the 18th and 19th centuries and the city's more contemporary steel and glass buildings showcase Vienna's perfect mix of history with the modern day. And Vienna offers tourists so many fun and unique things to do; it's a great reason to visit Austria .

From star attractions like visiting St. Stephen's Cathedral, Schönbrunn Palace, and MuseumsQuartier, to spending the day at the Vienna Zoo, riding the Ferris Wheel at Prater Amusement Park, or touring the Vienna State Opera House—there is never a dull moment in Vienna. Tourists can also spend the afternoon shopping at luxury stores or flea markets (or both!), slip right into Vienna's coffee culture, or people-watch with a glass of locally made wine.

Vienna is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe , and with a storied history, gorgeous sights, and urban charm, it is definitely worth visiting.

UPDATE: 2023/08/26 13:02 EST BY NICHOLAS MAYAMBA

Austria's capital is a historic city offering an excellent mix of ancient and modern attractions. This refreshed list sheds light on more popular sites ideal for history buffs, sightseers, and vacationing families.

Top Things to Do In Vienna

Here is our ultimate guide and list of things to do in Vienna, Austria.

1 St. Stephen’s Cathedral

Vienna's star attraction, St. Stephen's Cathedral, is, in a word—spectacular. Located in the middle of Old Town, the impressive Gothic building dominates Vienna’s skyline. Gothic spires, the striking bell tower, and the ornate roof mesmerize viewers. It's not just the cathedral's exterior that's impressive, either.

Inside, visitors can climb the 343 stairs to the south tower, take an elevator to the north tower to see the Pummerin Bell (the largest church bell in Austria), get close to the Baroque high altar, visit the many small chapels, and check out the cathedral treasury.

• Address: Schönbrunner Schloßstraße 47, 1130, Vienna
• Hours: Monday through Saturday, 6 AM to 10 PM; Sunday, 7 AM to 10 PM

While entry into the cathedral is free, specific sites of interest in St. Stephen’s Cathedral are only accessible via guided tours .

2 Schönbrunn Palace

Schönbrunn Palace is Vienna’s crown jewel . Once a summer home to Habsburg monarchs, today, the Schönbrunn Palace is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The palace and its gardens span over 300 years of Austrian history and have been a main tourist attraction since the 1950s.

With over 1,400 rooms and beautiful palace gardens available to the public, the Schönbrunn Palace is a must-see attraction for any tourist in Vienna. In addition to tours of the palace, visitors have an opportunity to attend classical concerts featuring Mozart and similar musicians.

Target visiting the venue at night when the Schönbrunn Palace lights up in the dark for an amazing photo opportunity at the iconic landmark.

3 MuseumsQuartier

Commonly known as MQ, MuseumsQuartier is one of the largest cultural complexes in Europe and encompasses over 60 cultural institutions. Simply put, MQ offers tourists and locals alike so many unique things to do right in the center of Vienna.

From fine art to architecture, music, theater, fashion, and dance, there is always something new to learn, unique to see, and fun to do. Witness the world-famous Egon Schiele collection, enjoy a glass of wine at a trendy bar, dine at a cute café or elegant restaurant, or even play mini golf!

And the rooftop terrace on the MQ Libelle recently opened in 2020 and offers fantastic views over the city center to the Vienna mountains.

• Address: Museumsplatz 1, 1070, Vienna
• Cost: The MQ is free to enter and look around, but each institution inside has its own fees and opening hours.

For vacationing families, let the kids play at the ZOOM KIndermuseum with the interactive displays on the big screen for a fun experience.

Related: 10 Best Museums In Vienna For Music And Art

4 Vienna Zoo

The Vienna Zoo is the world’s oldest. With over 700 species of animals, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a fun opportunity to witness wildlife from the tropics to the Arctic and everything in between. Some zoo highlights include an Aquarium-Terrarium House, a Bird House, and cute pandas, penguins, and orangutans.

Kids love the petting zoo and the large adventure playground! The zoo also offers cafés, snack bars, and restaurants, so families can stay the entire day.

• Address: On the grounds of Schönbrunn Palace, Seckendorff-Gudent-Weg, 1130 Vienna
• Hours: Daily, 9 AM to 4:30/6:30 PM (depending on the season)
• Cost: Approximately $28 per person

Visit the Vienna Zoo early after opening hours when the animals are still active to spot as many as possible; they tend to retreat to hidden and shaded areas as the day gets hotter.

5 The Prater Amusement Park

This large amusement park offers old-timey rides the entire family will enjoy. The park’s main attraction is located right at the entrance. The Ferris Wheel, constructed in 1897, is a historical landmark, and a ride in one of its stately gondolas is a fantastic opportunity to soak up gorgeous views from 200 feet high!

Farther inside the Prater Amusement Park, visitors will find roller coasters, spooky ghost trains, video games, bouncy castles, eateries, cafés, and so many more fun things to do. The amusement park is among the oldest in the world, and a step inside will make visitors feel like they've stepped back in time.

• Address: Riesenradplatz 2, A-1020 Vienna

Other than the kiddy attractions at Prater Amusement Park, guests can also explore the green recreation area of Prater Park, and the best way to do this is on two wheels. Bike rentals are available at the nearby "Schweizerhaus."

6 Go Shopping In Vienna

Vienna offers ample opportunities to shop. To name a few—try the Ringstrassen-Galerien for a unique shopping experience. The 16-floor mall is in two buildings connected by a glass bridge. The gorgeous setting offers everything from clothing to toys!

The Danau Zentrum is a mall with over 250 stores, a movie theater, and a few dozen restaurants. It's the second-largest shopping center in Austria. Kohlmarket is one of the oldest streets in Vienna. While strolling past stunning historic architecture, tourists will find luxury brands, like Chanel and Gucci, as well as fine jewelry.

Shopping in Vienna is relatively pricey so bring enough cash when heading out for some retail therapy. Nevertheless, those who don't want to break the bank can get in on the fun at discount stores like Hofer.

7 Walk Around The Ringtrasse

A stroll in Vienna’s city center, specifically—The Ringtrasse—is a great way to really see the historic city. The walk is just over three miles between Karlsplatz and Schottentor and loops around the historic Old Town. The first buildings on the Ringtrasse loop were built in 1857 and are definitely worth admiring.

Tourists will get up close and personal with many famous buildings, including the State Opera House, the Town Hall, the University, the Burggarten, the Hofburg, the National Library, many of Vienna’s great museums, Parliament, the Volksgarten, and the Burgtheater.

If walking under the Vienna sun is too much trouble for visitors, riding the tram will be an excellent alternative. Catch the Tram Line 1, which makes a full loop around Ringtrasse, offering passengers epic views of the major landmarks in the area.

8 Vienna State Opera House Tour

The world-famous opera house dates back to 1869 and has welcomed some of the world’s most famous singers. Every night, visitors can witness the magic of world-class singers and ensemble members alongside a unique orchestra and master conductor. A night at the Vienna State Opera House is an experience to remember!

Opera enthusiasts may also appreciate a tour of the Vienna State Opera House . They usually last about 40 minutes and include insight into the building’s history and architecture and a behind-the-scenes look at the running of a famous opera house.

• Address: Opernring 2, 1010, Vienna
• Cost for a Tour: Approximately $14 per person

For a small extra fee, history buffs can delve deeper into the State Opera House history at the Staatsopermuseum, which displays articles, photographs, and other relics chronicling the venue's rich history.

9 Spanish Riding School

One of the most popular attractions in Vienna, the Spanish Riding School, has Lipizzan horses that regularly perform shows. An Austrian institution for over 450 years, the shows cultivate classical equitation in the Renaissance tradition of the Haute Ecole.

Tourists can also visit the Spanish Riding School in the mornings to watch the horses train for one-hour sessions in the winter riding room. Not as fancy as the shows, the trainings offer an alternative way to see the magnificent creatures.

Tours of the Spanish Riding School are also available. Located in Stallburg (a prominent Renaissance building), the tour costs approximately $23 per person but is worth it, especially for equestrian lovers.

• Address: Michaelerplatz 1, 1010, Vienna

Guests are not allowed to take photos during the performances and only ages 4+ are permitted to attend.

10 Naschmarkt

One of Vienna’s most famous markets, the Naschmarkt, runs almost a mile long and has about 120 market stands and restaurants. Dating back to the 16th century, expect to find fruits, vegetables, spices, cheeses—and even lots of international cuisine, ranging from traditional Viennese to Indian, Vietnamese, Italian, and more!

DJs blast music on the weekends, and in the warmer months, it’s a great spot to spend time outdoors eating, drinking, and people-watching.

The flea market on Saturday is a must-visit for tourists who love finding unique souvenirs and special treasures!

• Address: Naschmarkt Stand 412 1060, Vienna

Tourists should keep a close eye on their belongings, especially on busy days when the market is crowded; pickpockets like to make the most of the opportunity.

11 Haus der Musik (House Of Music)

Vienna boasts a rich musical heritage dating back to the heydays of Mozart and Beethoven, and tourists can explore this fascinating legacy at Haus der Musik. This quaint little museum exhibits the works of various elite musicians from Vienna in the form of sound bytes and manuscripts.

Through the displays, guests get an insight into the evolution of various aspects of music beyond a novice's understanding, including the mechanics and sound. At the Vienna Philharmonic section, classic music fans can get an interesting lesson in conducting using a virtual wand.

• Address: Seilerstätte 30, 1010 Wien, Austria
• Hours: 10 am - 10 pm
• Cost: Adults $15, Kids $7

Haus der Musik is just a few blocks from the famous Hofburg Palace, another picturesque landscape visitors will want to check out.

12 Museum Judenplatz

Museum Judenplatz showcases ancient Jewish heritage in Vienna. The word "Judenplatz" originates from the 13th century and refers to a neighborhood in the city designated as the Jewish Ghetto. Today, tourists can look into the Jewish identity of the area at the Museum Judenplatz and learn about the part they played in developing the city of Vienna.

The museum also chronicles the victimization they faced during World War 2. Below the museum, guests will come across the Medieval Synagogue, which dives deeper into the life of Jews in Vienna. The synagogue was built in the 13th century but later destroyed in the 14th.

• Address: Judenpl. 8, 1010 Wien, Austria
• Hours: Sunday to Thursday, 10 am - 6 pm (5 pm Fridays)
• Cost: Adults $12, Kids $6

After touring the museum and synagogue, remember to honor the lives of departed Jews at the Holocaust Memorial. Although first-timers should know it is such a surreal and emotional experience.

13 Hofburg Palace

This sprawling 13th-century palace impresses newcomers with its sheer lavishness and unparalleled grandiosity. It is an iconic attraction split into several other attractions, offering visitors the complete royal experience.

The huge complex features the Swiss Court, Imperial Apartments, and the Kaiserappartements ' Sisi Museum, which sheds light on the death of Vienna's Empress Elizabeth.

The Imperial Apartments, the former royal family's official residence, hosts at least 2,000 rooms, but the public can only access about a dozen. Other sites, like the Butterfly House and Imperial Silver Collection, are worth touring at Hofburg Palace.

• Address: 1010 Vienna, Austria
• Hours: 9 am - 6 pm
• Cost: Varies depending on the season

14 Austrian National Library

The Austrian National Library is an impressive sight, and views get more spectacular at the Grand Hall in the middle of the venue, Prunksaal. Visitors will be awed by the medieval wooden bookcases holding at least 200,000 leather-bound manuscripts from ancient civilizations.

The domed roof of the library is held in place by imposing pillars with intricate inscriptions on the marble, looking like a scene from a movie. Austria's largest library holds an unprecedented wealth of information; it's a shame the books are not accessible to the public.

• Address: Josefsplatz 1, 1015 Wien, Austria
• Cost: $10.80
• Hours: 10 am - 6 pm (9 pm on Thursdays)

15 Best Time To Visit

• Best month to go to Vienna: April to May or Spring to October. These months offer mild weather and fewer crowds.
• Rainiest months in Vienna: April and November tend to be the wettest.

April to May

Spring offers tourists a fantastic opportunity to avoid long lines at main attractions and save a little bit of money on inflated hotel and airfare prices. Temperatures range from the 40s to the high 60s, but despite the cooler weather, this is one of the best times of the year to visit Vienna.

June to August

The most popular time to visit, summer offers warm weather and so many fun things to do. Temperatures in the 70s are perfect for perusing the city and checking out the sights. Summer is the busiest time of year to visit Vienna, though, so be prepared for crowds. And this is also the time of year to expect higher prices for hotels and airfares.

• Summer Festivals in Vienna : The Vienna Festival is in May/June. And the Danube Island Festival is in June.

September to October

Like spring, temperatures in Vienna vary between the mid-40s and the high-60s. Prices start to drop after the summer surge. Fall is one of the best times of year to visit Vienna.

• Fall Events in Vienna : Vienna Fashion Week is in September, and the Vienna International Film Festival is in October.

November to March

Chilly temperatures (the mid-30s to 40s) don't stop the winter crowds. Wintertime festivities draw many visitors to Vienna, and Vienna is a gorgeous place to visit around Christmastime!

• Winter Events in Vienna : The famous Vienna Christmas Market is in November and December, and the Vienna Ball Season runs from December to February.

16 Best Ways To Get Around

• Best way to get around Vienna : On foot or by taking a bus or a streetcar.

Vienna is a walking city. Many of the city’s top attractions are within walking distance, and it's a lovely place to explore on foot.

Bus, Streetcar & Subway

Alternatively, Vienna’s public transportation ( The Wiener Linien ) offers buses and streetcars that wind their way through the city and are very easy to use. Tourists can transfer between buses and streetcars using the same ticket—they’re interchangeable.

The U-Bahn is a subway system that also services the city. Tickets for buses and streetcars can also be used on the subway.

• Cost: $1.30 per person for a single-trip ticket or $6.30 per person for an all-day ticket.

Taxis are available in Vienna, but they’re expensive. Consult the hotel concierge for going rates and confirm fares before getting into a cab. Uber is also available in Vienna.

Vienna is a very bike-friendly city. A healthy and fun way to travel, tourists can rent bikes for the day (approximately $40) along the Danube Canal.

Renting a car is not recommended in Vienna. The streets are narrow, crowded, and difficult to navigate by car, and parking in the city can also be challenging.

Related: Exploring Vienna: How To Plan A Weekend Trip To Austria's Classic Capital

17 Where To Eat

Vienna has an impressive dining scene; check out the best places to eat in the capital.

Café Central

While Café Central serves popular Viennese dishes and has live piano performances daily (except Tuesdays) starting at 3:30 PM, it’s also a fabulous place for breakfast! And over the years, Café Central has attracted many famous people, like Freud and Trotsky, writers, and poets.

• Address: Corner Herrengasse / Strauchgasse, 1010, Vienna
• Hours: Monday through Saturday, 8 AM to 9 PM; Sunday, 10 AM to 9 PM
• Recommended: Kaiserliches Frühstück (Imperial breakfast with one glass of sparkling wine, one hot drink, fresh orange juice, smoked salmon with orange-mustard sauce, toast, homemade croissant, handmade roll, organic butter, jam, soft-boiled organic egg, organic muesli with organic plain yogurt)

Figlmüller

Johann Figlmüller opened Figlmüller in 1905, just around the corner from St. Stephen’s Cathedral. For over 100 years, tourists and locals alike have enjoyed the famous Wiener Schnitzel and homegrown wine.

• Address: Figlmüller Wollzeile: Wollzeile 5, 1010 Vienna
• Hours: Daily, 11 AM to 10:30 PM
• Recommended: The Wiener Schnitzel, of course!

Mraz and Sohn

With two Michelin Stars, Mraz and Sohn offers multi-course tasting menus in a contemporary setting and is a must-visit in Vienna. It’s a family-run restaurant serving Austrian cuisine with an international influence.

• Address: Wallensteinstraße 59, 1200 Vienna
• Hours: Monday through Friday, 7 PM to Midnight
• Recommended: The Chef’s Tasting Menu

Related: A Guide To Vienna's Decadent Cafés (& Their Best Treats)

18 Where To Stay In Vienna

From hostels and budget-friendly hotels to luxury accommodations and all-inclusive resorts perfect for a Vienna getaway , Austria’s capital city offers the perfect place for any traveler to lay their head.

Hotel Bristol

A truly luxurious accommodation, Hotel Bristol is in the heart of the city near the Vienna State Opera and within walking distance of many of Vienna's top attractions. This Art Deco delight has been a prime address in Vienna since 1892 and offers historic charm with modern amenities. Also, the Bristol Bar (on-site) is the first American Bar in Vienna.

• Address: Kaerntner Ring 1, 1010 Vienna
• Amenities: Fitness center, bar/lounge, free Wi-Fi, coffee machine, restaurant, room service, flat-screen TV.

Rosewood Vienna

This luxurious hotel in the heart of the city accords guests the ultimate royal experience. Rosewood Vienna features 99 rooms with all creature comforts to guarantee an unforgettable lodging experience. The 19th-century renovated building housing the hotel is also a work of art and adds to the allure of the venue.

• Address: Petersplatz 7, 1010 Vienna, Vienna
• Amenities: Spa and wellness center, Fitness center, Restaurant, Bar/Lounge, Room service, Free Wi-Fi, Valet parking, Wi-Fi available in all areas

Related: 10 Most Lavish And Expensive Austria Hotels For The Ultimate Getaway

Austria Classic Hotel Wien

Centrally located, the Austria Classic Hotel Wien has over 200 years of history and is located in one of the oldest houses in Vienna. Combining comfort and contemporary flair, this mid-range hotel is an excellent option for those traveling to Vienna.

• Address: Praterstrasse 72, 1020 Vienna
• Amenities: fitness center, free Wi-Fi, coffee machine, flat-screen TV, bar/lounge

NH Vienna Airport Conference Center

Formerly NH Wien Airport, the NH Vienna Airport Conference Center hotel enjoys a proximal location right across the arrival hall at the airport, a convenience for tourists arriving in the city. The hotel is also within striking distance of some of the top attractions in Vienna, including the Historic Center of Vienna and the Flugenhafen Wien.

• Address: Einfahrtsstrasse 1Flughafenienna, Vienna
• Amenities: Spa and wellness center, Fitness center, Restaurant, Bar/Lounge, Room service, Free Wi-Fi, Coffee machine, Business center

Hotel Donauwalzer

The Hotel Donauwalzer is a boutique hotel within a 15-minute walk (8-minute tram) to the city center. Their breakfast buffet, with sparkling wine and live classical music, is a great way to start Sunday mornings! A great option for budget-conscious travelers, the Hotel Donauwalzer offers fantastic service in a good location.

• Address: Hernalser Gürtel 27, 1170 Vienna
• Amenities: Spa and wellness center, free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TV, bar/lounge.

Leonardo Hotel Vienna

Located 11 minutes from the popular Schoenbrunn Palace and 2 minutes from Raimund Theater by car, Leonardo Hotel Vienna is a pleasant lodging option that won't cost an arm and a leg. It has all the basic amenities to promise a comfortable stay in Austria's capital, such as a business center and laundry services.

Address: Matrosengasse 6-8, 1060 Vienna, Vienna

Amenities: Fitness center, Restaurant, Bar/Lounge, Room service, Free Wi-Fi, Tea/coffee maker, Coffee machine, Coffee shop

For backpackers, Vienna offers lots of great hostels !

19 How To Spend The Perfect Day In Vienna

Start the day at Café Central. Sip a hot cup of coffee and dine on delicious pastries while people-watching in one of the most popular eateries in the city. Next up, it’s time for some sightseeing. St. Peter's Cathedral is one of the most popular attractions in Vienna, and no wonder why!

With stunning architecture, both inside and out, the cathedral is worth a trip. Spend a little extra money on a guided tour to learn more about this fascinating space and witness special sites of interest.

In the afternoon, stop by Schönbrunn Palace. Explore the palace and the gardens before heading to MuseumsQuarter, one of the largest cultural complexes in Europe. Because the space encompasses over 60 cultural institutions, there's no time to visit them all. Just make sure to stop by the rooftop terrace on the MQ Libelle before leaving to catch breathtaking views over the city center to the Vienna mountains.

If there's time, wander through the Naschmarkt before heading to dinner. A tasting menu at Mraz and Sohn, along with a pint or a glass of local wine, is the perfect ending to the perfect day in Vienna, Austria.

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