22 Best Things To Do in Vienna, Austria
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Vienna is a beautiful city with a rich history and plenty of things to see and do. If you’re looking for the best things to do in Vienna, Austria, this list of 22 Best Things To Do in Vienna, Austria is for you! From exploring the grand Hofburg Palace to strolling through the lush gardens of the Schönbrunn Palace, there’s no shortage of activities to keep you busy in Vienna. And if you’re a fan of art and architecture, you’ll definitely want to visit some of the city’s iconic museums and churches, like the Belvedere Palace and the Stephansdom cathedral.
Of course, no trip to Vienna would be complete without trying some of the city’s famous Viennese pastries! So be sure to save room for some delicious sachertorte or apfelstrudel before you leave. With so much to see and do, Vienna is a city that should definitely be on your travel list.
1. Admire the architecture
Vienna is a city that is rich in history and culture, and this is reflected in its architecture. Throughout the city, you will find an array of different styles of buildings, from grandiose palaces to more simple and functional structures. Many of the city’s buildings are free to enter, so you can explore to your heart’s content without spending any money.
Here are some of the most notable buildings in Vienna that you should definitely check out during your visit:
2. Visit the Hofburg Palace
The Hofburg Palace is one of Vienna’s most iconic buildings, and it’s well worth a visit. Once the home of the Austrian imperial family, the palace is now a complex of museums, restaurants, and shops. You can explore the opulent state rooms, learn about the history of the Habsburg dynasty, and even visit the imperial apartments where Emperor Franz Joseph and his wife Sisi lived.
3. Stroll through the Old Town
The Old Town is one of the best places to start exploring Vienna. Stroll through the quaint streets and admire the historic buildings, stopping to browse the shops or grab a bite to eat. Be sure to visit some of the city’s most famous landmarks like the Spanish Riding School and the Vienna Opera House.
4. Take a walk through Viennese parks
Vienna is home to some of the most beautiful parks in Europe. Take a stroll through the manicured gardens of the Belvedere Palace or explore the 1,200 acres of forest Park. If you’re visiting in spring or summer, be sure to check out the city’s many open-air markets for fresh produce and handmade goods.
5. Visit the Schönbrunn Palace
The Schönbrunn Palace is one of Vienna’s most popular tourist attractions. Once the summer residence of the imperial family, the palace is now a museum with 14 acres of gardens to explore. Take a tour of the opulent state rooms or wander through the maze-like hedge labyrinth. Don’t forget to visit the zoo, which is located on the palace grounds and is home to over 500 animals.
6. See a performance at the Vienna Opera House
The Vienna Opera House is one of the most iconic buildings in the city, and it’s also one of the best places to see a performance. The Opera House is home to the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra, and you can also see operas, ballets, and concerts throughout the year. If you’re visiting during the summer, be sure to check out the open-air opera performances in the park.
7. Browse the Naschmarkt
The Naschmarkt is Vienna’s largest and most popular market. Located in the center of the city, the market is home to over 120 stalls selling everything from fresh produce to handmade goods. You can also find a variety of international food stands, so it’s the perfect place to grab lunch or a snack.
8. Visit the Belvedere Palace
The Belvedere Palace is one of Vienna’s most iconic landmarks. Once the home of Prince Eugene of Savoy, the palace is now a museum with two baroque gardens to explore. The Lower Garden is home to the famous statue of Venus by sculptor Canova, and the Upper Garden features a magnificent view of the city.
9. Take a ride on the Vienna Giant Ferris Wheel
The Vienna Giant Ferris Wheel is one of the city’s most popular attractions. Located in the Prater amusement park, the ferris wheel offers stunning views of Vienna from above. The best time to ride is at night when the city is illuminated by thousands of lights.
10. Sample some Viennese food
Vienna is a food lover’s paradise, offering an abundance of both traditional and contemporary culinary delights. The city is renowned for its rich and decadent cuisine, which includes local specialties like schnitzel, goulash, and strudel. For something sweet, be sure to head to one of the many cafes scattered throughout the city. You’ll find mouthwatering cakes and pastries, as well as excellent coffee. If you’re looking for a more casual dining experience, there are plenty of great restaurants serving up delicious Austrian fare. No matter what your budget or taste, you’re sure to find something to suit your needs in Vienna.
11. Join a guided tour
One of the best ways to learn about Vienna is to join a guided tour. There are tours available for all interests, from art and history to food and wine. Guided tours are a great way to see the city’s sights and learn about its culture and history.
12. Visit the Vienna Zoo
The Vienna Zoo is one of the oldest zoos in Europe and is home to over 500 animals. The zoo is located on the grounds of the Schönbrunn Palace, and it’s a great place to spend a day if you’re visiting with kids. Be sure to check out the penguin exhibit, where you can watch the penguins swim and play.
13. Go on a wine tour
Vienna is located in the heart of Austria’s wine country, and there are plenty of great vineyards to visit nearby. Join a wine tour to learn about the region’s history and taste some of the local wines. You can also visit one of the many wineries in the city for a tasting or tour.
14. Visit the Kunsthistorisches Museum
The Kunsthistorisches Museum is one of the world’s largest and most important art museums. Located in the center of Vienna, the museum is home to a wide collection of paintings, sculptures, and artifacts from around the world. Don’t miss the museum’s famous Egyptian collection, which includes a mummy and sarcophagus.
15. Walk through the Wienerwald
The Wienerwald is a large forest located just outside of Vienna. The forest is a great place to escape the city and enjoy some peace and quiet. There are plenty of trails to explore, and you can also find a number of restaurants and cafes in the area.
16. Visit the Stephansdom
The Stephansdom is Vienna’s most iconic and beloved church, a stunning Gothic cathedral located in the heart of the city. With its soaring spires and massive size, the church is an impressive sight to behold. But what truly sets this magnificent building apart is the fact that it can be experienced from many different angles and perspectives. Whether you spend time admiring its intricate carvings from within or choose to climb to the top of one of its soaring towers for a breathtaking view of Vienna, there is no doubt that the Stephansdom will capture your imagination and stay with you long after your visit. So if you find yourself in the beautiful city of Vienna, make sure that the majestic Stephansdom is at the top of your list of must-see attractions!
17. Take a ride on the Vienna Ring Tram
The Vienna Ring Tram is a wonderful way to see the city’s iconic sites. This unique tram circles around the grand Ringstrasse, which is lined with world-famous landmarks like St. Stephen’s Cathedral and the Parliament Building. Even if you’re only spending a few days in Vienna, you can really get a feel for this beautiful city by hopping on and off of this historic tram as you explore its diverse neighborhoods and bustling streets. In addition to offering great views, the tram has an audio guide that will provide all kinds of interesting information about Vienna’s long and fascinating history. Whether you’re an experienced tourist or a first-time visitor, taking a ride on the Vienna Ring Tram will be an unforgettable experience that you won’t want to miss!
18. The Spanish Riding School
The Spanish Riding School is one of Vienna’s most famous attractions. The school is home to a group of white Lipizzaner horses, and you can watch them perform classical dressage routines. The horsemanship on display is truly impressive, and the performances are a must-see for any visitor to Vienna.
19. Austrian National Library
The Austrian National Library is one of the largest and most important libraries in the world. Located in the Hofburg Palace, the library is home to over 12 million books, making it one of the largest collections in Austria. The library is also home to a number of rare and valuable books, including a first edition of the Gutenberg Bible.
20. Visit the Clock Museum in Vienna
The Clock Museum in Vienna is one of the most significant collections of time pieces in Europe, with 700 clocks on display from around the globe. The exhibition tells a story of scientific advances and technological precision, but also of social transformation and design trends in the decorative arts. Highlights of the collection include the “Cajetano clock,” an astronomical clock from the eighteenth century, and the clocks from the Viennese Biedermeier period. The Clock Museum is a unique gem in the heart of Vienna that is definitely worth a visit for any traveler interested in history and design.
21. Imperial Butterfly Park
The Imperial Butterfly Park is a must-visit for any nature lover visiting Vienna. The park is home to over 4,000 butterflies from around the world, and it also has a number of other attractions, including an aviary, a beekeeping exhibit, and a garden. The park is located on the grounds of the Schönbrunn Palace, and it’s the perfect place to spend an afternoon exploring Vienna’s natural beauty.
22. Relax at the Therme Wien
The Therme Wien is a large thermal bath complex located just outside of Vienna. The complex has a number of different pools, saunas, and steam rooms, as well as a restaurant and a spa. The Therme Wien is the perfect place to relax and rejuvenate after a long day of sightseeing in Vienna.
Where to Stay in Vienna
There are a number of great places to stay in Vienna, depending on your budget and preferences. If you’re looking for a luxurious hotel, the Grand Hotel Wien is a great option. For a more affordable option, try the Pension MesseWien. If you’re traveling with family, the Hilton Vienna Danube Waterfront is a great option, as it offers family-friendly amenities and is located near many of Vienna’s attractions.
Tips for Visiting Vienna
Vienna is a large city, and its attractions are spread out. Be sure to plan your sightseeing in advance, and use public transportation to get around. Vienna is a safe city, but be sure to take precautions with your belongings, as pickpockets are known to operate in crowded areas. Finally, be sure to try some of the city’s famous pastries like Sachertorte, Apfelstrudel, and Palatschinken. Guten Appetit!
Best Time To Visit Vienna
The best time to visit Vienna is in the spring or fall, when the weather is mild and the city is less crowded with tourists. However, Vienna is a great destination year-round, and each season has its own charms. Christmas time is especially festive, as the city comes alive with holiday markets and decorations. If you’re visiting during the summer, be sure to take advantage of the many outdoor activities and attractions that Vienna has to offer. No matter when you visit, you’re sure to have a great time in Vienna!
