Top 10 Things to Do in Vienna Austria

If you thought Vienna was about Kaffeehaus Culture and Imperial Art, you are 101% right, but beyond that too there are umpteen numbers of things to do in Vienna. During my Europe tour of six countries in a row I stayed in Vienna for four nights straight. So I prepared this guide with top 10 things to do in Vienna. The list has major landmarks of Vienna Austria.

This list of top tourist attractions in Vienna may be a little overwhelming. Therefore I added a quick list of important sights in one day in Vienna.

Vienna Street Scene

Is Vienna worth visiting?

If you have such doubts in mind, keep them aside for Vienna, the capital of Austria, is worth visiting for several reasons. Vienna offers a unique blend of long and captivating history that dates back to Roman times, vibrant cultural scene, magnificent architectural marvels, and natural beauty that satiate a wide range of interests.

The city consistently ranks among the top cities in the world for its high quality of life. It has excellent public transportation, low crime rates, well-maintained infrastructure, and a focus on green spaces. These factors contribute to a pleasant and safe environment for residents and visitors alike.

Whether you’re passionate about music, art, history, or simply want to immerse yourself in the charm of a European capital, Vienna is definitely worth exploring.

What to see Vienna – top: Belvedre Castle, middle: Schonbrunn Palace Gardens, bottom: Vienna Opera House.

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History of Vienna – brief essay

Vienna has established itself as a major center for international organizations, diplomacy, and culture, maintaining its reputation as one of Europe’s most beautiful and livable cities. However, it has a chequered past for over two thousand years. Here is a brief overview of the city’s historical journey:

Roman Era: The area that is now Vienna was originally a Celtic settlement. However, the Romans established the military camp of Vindobona on the site around the 1st century AD.
Medieval Period: After the fall of the Western Roman Empire, in the 10th century, it became an important outpost of the Babenberg dynasty, who ruled over the region. In the late 13th century, the Habsburg dynasty rose to power and became the capital of the Holy Roman Empire in the 15th century. Vienna faced two significant sieges by the Ottoman Empire. The first siege in 1529 was repelled, and the second siege in 1683 was ultimately defeated with the help of Polish and other allied forces.
During the reign of Empress Maria Theresa and her successor Emperor Joseph II in the 18th century, Vienna underwent extensive modernization and urban development. In the 19th century, Vienna became the capital of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, a vast multinational state.
World Wars and Post-War Era: Vienna, like the rest of Austria, faced significant challenges during both World War I and World War II. After the Second World War, the city was divided into zones controlled by the victorious Allied powers. Vienna remained divided until 1955 when Austria regained full independence and neutrality.
Modern Vienna: Since the mid-20th century, Vienna has thrived as the capital of the Republic of Austria. The city has focused on preserving its historical heritage while embracing modernity.

Things to see in Vienna – Architectural Marvels

Top 10 Things to Do in Vienna Austria

Vienna offers a wide range of attractions and activities for visitors to enjoy. Let us first concentrate on the best places to see in Vienna,

1. ST. STEPHEN’S CATHEDRAL

Visit St. Stephen’s Cathedral Vienna, an iconic Gothic masterpiece, and take in the breathtaking views from its tower. Part of the interior of Stephansdom is FREE; you pay for each other area, spires to catacombs, plus Dom Museum Wien.
Timings: Visiting hours are as follows: Monday to Saturday: from 9 AM to 11.30 AM and from 1 PM to 4.30 PM. Sundays and public holidays: from 1 PM to 4.30 PM.
Tour time: Half an hour to two hours and more

Vienna what to see – St Stephens Cathedral Wien

2. HOFBURG PALACE

Explore the magnificent Hofburg Palace, which was the residence of the Habsburgs. The highlights of Hofburg Palace are:

• Imperial Apartments, which were once the private living quarters of Emperor Franz Joseph and Empress Elisabeth
• Sisi Museum, dedicated to Empress Elisabeth
• Silver Collection, showcasing precious silverware, porcelain, and tableware from the Habsburg dynasty
• Imperial Treasury with priceless treasures like the Crown Jewels, the Holy Roman Empire’s regalia, the Austrian imperial regalia, Imperial Crown, the Imperial Orb, and the Holy Lance.
• World-renowned Spanish Riding School – Experience the artistry of classical horsemanship as the Lipizzaner stallions perform elegant dressage movements. Visit the Spanish Riding School of Vienna and witness the training of the Lipizzaners and their riders. During the morning exercise you can observe the training of the gray colts and the fully-trained school stallions, the “white stars”.
• Austrian National Library, housed within Hofburg Palace
• Hofburg Chapel, also known as the Burgkapelle

Tour time: Frankly you will need at least half a day here, if not more
Timings: Open every day 8 AM to 6 PM.

Hofburg Imperial Palace

3. SCHONBRUNN PALACE

Schönbrunn Palace is an enchanting baroque palace, summer residence of the Habsburg emperors, located in Vienna. Here’s a brief overview of what to see in Schönbrunn Palace and its gardens:

Its grand architecture, opulent interiors, and meticulously maintained rooms provide a glimpse into the imperial lifestyle. Highlights include the lavish Great Gallery, the Rococo-styled Millions Room, and the stunning Hall of Mirrors.

The palace is surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens spanning over 1.2 sqkm. Schönbrunn Palace and its gardens is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Don’t miss the Neptune Fountain, the Roman Ruin, and the gloriette – a hilltop structure offering panoramic views of Vienna. If time permits include Tiergarten Schönbrunn and Schönbrunn Maze in your itinerary.

Tour time: 3 hours
Timings: January to June (Every day): 9.30 AM to 5 PM. July to December (Every day): 9 AM to 5.30 PM.
Tickets: Most of the outside grounds are free, but guided tours are required for the Palace interior.

Tiergarten Schönbrunn

4. BELVEDERE PALACE

Belvedere Palace is another magnificent Baroque Palace in Vienna. Major highlights of the palace are:
Upper Belvedere that houses an extensive art collection, including work, Klimt’s famous painting, “The Kiss.” Visit the Belvedere Museum in Vienna with an entry ticket to visit the Upper Belvedere.

Lower Belvedere features beautiful Baroque architecture and houses temporary exhibitions. The Belvedere Palace Gardens are a perfect blend of symmetry, fountains, sculptures, and manicured greenery. Orangery, an elegant greenhouse within the Belvedere Palace complex is worth a visit. It houses a collection of tropical plants and serves as an exhibition space.

Palace Stables houses the Vienna Carriage Museum with an impressive collection of carriages and horse-drawn vehicles from the Habsburg era.

Timings: Open every day 9 AM to 6 PM.
Tickets: Different combo tickets are available. Book online to skip the queue.
Tour time: You’ll need at least three hours to explore the Belvedere Palace properly.

Vienna Must See – Belvedere Castle

Vienna for Culture Vultures

Visit Vienna Museums and Cultural Sites: Wien is home to numerous world-class museums. Here is a short list of best Vienna Museums. Include them in your itinerary of top 10 things to do in Vienna.

5. KUNSTHISTORISCHES MUSEUM

Kunsthistorisches Museum houses an extensive collection of art and historical artifacts. There are masterpieces by renowned artists such as Vermeer, Rembrandt, Caravaggio, Raphael, and Bruegel the Elder.
Egyptian and Near Eastern Collection features ancient Egyptian artifacts, including mummies, sarcophagi, and intricate jewelry
Greek and Roman Antiquities collection include magnificent marble sculptures, intricate vases, and ancient artifacts that offer a glimpse into the history, and daily life of ancient Greece and Rome
Kunstkammer houses a diverse assortment of rare and precious objects collected by the Habsburg rulers
The stunning architecture of the Kunsthistorisches Museum, a grandiose building with ornate facade, grand staircases, and intricately decorated halls and galleries enhances the overall museum experience.

Kunsthistorisches Museum

6. LEOPOLD MUSEUM

The Leopold Museum offers a comprehensive collection of Austrian art, with a focus on Viennese Modernism and Expressionism. It provides a valuable insight into the rich artistic heritage of Austria, making it a must-visit destination for art enthusiasts and those interested in exploring the evolution of Austrian art movements. This is worth including in the list of top 10 things to do in Vienna if you have the luxury of spending three days in Vienna.

7. ALBERTINA MUSEUM

Another must include in my list of top 10 things to do in Vienna is the Albertina Museum. The Albertina is renowned for:

• World-class collection of works from artists such as Albrecht Dürer, Rembrandt, Michelangelo, Picasso, and Klimt
• Architecture and Design Collection features drawings, models, and plans by influential architects from various periods, including Otto Wagner, Adolf Loos, and Frank Lloyd Wright.
• Collection of Impressionist and Expressionist art; works by Monet, Renoir, Cézanne, Munch, and Schiele
• Temporary exhibitions that showcase various themes, artists, or periods
• Albertina Modern, an extension of the museum dedicated to contemporary art featuring works by modern and contemporary artists
• Habsburg State Rooms display the lavish interiors of the former Habsburg residence.

Neptune Fountain with statues of Neptune and his wife Salacia. At Neptune feet is their infant son Triton. They sit on a pedestal held up by three mermen generally called tritons also.

8. Visit the MuseumsQuartier

The MuseumsQuartier, located in Vienna, is one of the largest art and cultural complexes in the world. Spread over 9 sqkm in central Vienna it encompasses 60 cultural institutions. The MQ complex is free to enter and wander around, but each institution within the MQ has its own opening hours and ticket options. It is located in the 7th district of the city of Wien.
MQ complex in Vienna City is a vibrant cultural hub that offers a diverse range of artistic experiences. With its renowned museums, contemporary art spaces, and unique architectural design, it has become a prominent destination for art lovers, culture enthusiasts, and for those seeking a creative and engaging atmosphere in Vienna.

9. Opera Performances

Immerse yourself in the cultural scene by attending classical concerts or opera performances, which ranks high in top ten things to do in Vienna. You can soak up the melodies of Strauss and Mozart with a concert in one of the world’s most renowned music venues in Vienna.
You can attend opera performances and Viennese Music at venues like Schönbrunn Palace, Hofburg Imperial Palace, St. Stephen’s Cathedral, Schönbrunn Palace Garden, St. Peter’s Church, Historic Center of Vienna, Kursalon Vienna Rathaus and more.

Vienna State Opera Night

10. Indulge in Vienna Food

I find indulging in local cuisines the most interesting thing to do in any new city. I had my experiential dining quota in Vienna City that is known for its rich culinary tradition, offering a variety of delicious and iconic dishes. Do include Vienna food tasting in your list of top 10 things to do in Vienna.

Vienna’s culinary scene also includes a wide range of international cuisines, coffeehouses serving Viennese coffee specialties, and delightful pastries that should not be missed. I have mentioned a few examples of the famous Viennese food that you can enjoy during your Vienna visit.

Coffee in Vienna – Having coffee in Wien is not just about the beverage itself; it’s about embracing a cultural ritual, savoring the moment, and connecting with the city’s rich history. My friend had advised having Coffee in Vienna is one of the cool things to do in Vienna. It’s an experience that allows you to slow down, indulge in a delicious brew, and appreciate the city’s unique coffeehouse culture. Vienna offers a wide range of coffee specialties that are worth experiencing. From the classic Wiener Melange (a mix of coffee and steamed milk topped with milk foam) to the strong and dark Espresso or the indulgent Einspänner (a shot of Espresso topped with whipped cream); there is something to suit every taste preference.
Kaiserschmarrn – Kaiserschmarrn is a popular Austrian dessert. It is a light, caramelized pancake that resembles a fluffy shredded pancake. It is made from a sweet batter cooked in butter, torn into pieces, and then dusted with powdered sugar. It is often served with fruit compote or applesauce.
Schokocroissant – A Schokocroissant, also known as a chocolate croissant or pain au chocolat, is a delicious pastry that originated in France but is now popular in Vienna too. It is made by wrapping a piece of chocolate inside buttery, flaky croissant dough and then baking it until golden brown.
Sachertorte – Sachertorte is a decadent chocolate cake that originated in Vienna. It consists of layers of dense chocolate cake with a thin layer of apricot jam, covered in dark chocolate icing. It is often enjoyed with a dollop of whipped cream.

Sachertorte – Culinary Delights of Wien

Apfelstrudel – Apfelstrudel is a classic Viennese dessert made with flaky pastry filled with thinly sliced apples, raisins, cinnamon, and sugar. It is usually served warm and dusted with powdered sugar, often accompanied by vanilla sauce or whipped cream.

There are other sought after famous meat based Vienna food too, since I don’t take pork or beef I am not sure how they taste. However popular food guides suggest trying out dishes like:
Gulasch a hearty meat stew made with tender beef, onions, and paprika. It is slow-cooked to develop rich flavors and is often served with bread or dumplings.
Würstel (Vienna sausages) are a staple street food in Vienna. They are small, thin sausages made from a mixture of pork and beef, typically served with mustard and a side of bread.

Free Things to Do in Vienna

These museums are FREE for FULL FAMILY all on the 1st Sunday of every month: Wien Museum Karlsplatz, Roman Museum, Collection of Clocks and Watches, Wien Museum Hermesvilla in the Lainz Game Reserve and the Museum of Military History.

Part of Stephansdom is free.

Historic Centre of Vienna – Beautifully kept area; the center of Vienna is a pleasure to just walk around and enjoy the many beautiful sights.

Schonbrunner Gardens – Entry is free for this beautiful walk around the palatial gardens that span over 1.2 sqkm. The beautifully landscaped gardens offer a mix of formal French gardens and English-style landscaping. Stroll through the meticulously manicured lawns, vibrant flowerbeds, and charming paths. Don’t miss the Neptune Fountain, the Roman Ruin, and the gloriette—a hilltop structure offering panoramic views of Vienna.

Peterskirche – The interior of this church is worth a visit. Read more: St Peters Church Vienna.

The Ringstrasse Walk – Ringstrasse is a magnificent boulevard that encircles the historic center of Vienna, known as the Innere Stadt. Stretching for approximately 5.3 km, it serves as a showcase of Vienna’s architectural grandeur and cultural heritage. Built in the mid-19th century following the dismantling of the city walls, Ringstrasse is lined with impressive buildings, parks, monuments, and cultural institutions.

Free things to do in Vienna

What to see in Vienna

With this list of top 10 things to do in Vienna it can be really confusing what to include in your one day itinerary of Vienna. In this section I have highlighted the major tourist attractions of Vienna to see if you have just one day in hand.

One Day in Vienna

Save this One Day Itinerary of Vienna to plan a trip. Visit the Innere Stadt first. Innere Stadt is the inner-most district of Vienna, forms the historical core of the capital of Austria and it is crowded with most interesting tourist attractions of Vienna. I have mentioned the names and approx tour time of each. Plan well and make best use of time.

• Café Central, opens at 8 AM. Grab a quick breakfast
• Head to Rathaus, see its grand façade
• Visit Sisi Museum – Opens at 9 AM, Tour time 1 to 1.5 hours
• Hofburg Palace – Ideally 3 hours
• Lunch at Brasserie Palmenhaus Wien Restaurant or any of the restaurants around
• Visit any one museum – Albertina, or Kunsthistorisches Museums – tour time 3 hours
• Head to St Stephen’s Cathedral – tour time 1 hour
• Head for dinner

Town hall Rathaus Wien

Where to stay – Hotels in Vienna City

Last but not the least I have a small list of hotels in Vienna. If you plan 3 days in Vienna you can look up these places to stay in Vienna.

Holiday Inn Vienna City – We stayed in the Holiday Inn Vienna with kids. It was a very comfortable stay and I recommend it with a good 9 on 10.
Address: Margaretenstraße 53, 1050 Wien, Austria•+43 1 58850

Mercure Grand Hotel Biedermeier Wien – This is another one I would recommend. This 4 star hotel has good rating of 4.3 in Google
Address: Landstraßer Hauptstraße 28, 1030 Wien, Austria

Low budget hotel – ibis Wien Mariahilf
This 3 star hotel has 4.1 rating in Google.
Address: Mariahilfer Gürtel 22/24, 1060 Wien, Austria +43 1 59998

Where is Vienna in Austria located?

Vienna, the capital of Austria, is located in the north-eastern part of the country. It lies in the eastern part of Austria’s largest state, called Lower Austria (Niederösterreich). The city is situated on the eastern banks of the Danube River, which runs through the heart of Vienna. It is geographically close to the borders of Slovakia, Hungary, and the Czech Republic, making it a central hub in the region.

Map: 48°12′30″N 16°22′21″E
Google Coordinates: 48.20817527565449, 16.376929078527347
Airport: Vienna International Airport Flughafen Wien
Airport for domestic & international destinations, with a nonstop express train to central Vienna

Wien Train Station

Conclusion

With this list of top 10 things to do in Vienna Austria, and various other activities, I am sure you are convinced that the city offers a sensory feast for all. Strolling along the elegant streets, savoring a cup of coffee in a traditional Viennese café, or indulging in delectable pastries,

Whether you’re enchanted by the melodies of classical music, fascinated by imperial grandeur, or simply seeking the charms of a vibrant European capital, Vienna beckons with its unmatched blend of history, art, and refined cultural experiences.

Have you been to Vienna before? Do let me know in comments what you liked most about Vienna Austria.

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Indrani Ghose is an Indian Travel Writer and Blogger based in Bangalore, India. She has written for numerous publications across the globe – including Lonely Planet, The National UAE, Whetstone Asia, Deccan Herald. You can follow her on her social media handles Instagram, Twitter, Pinterest and Facebook to see the wonderful destinations, beautiful offbeat places and get instant updates about them.