Things To Do
St. Stephen's Cathedral
Vienna's iconic Gothic cathedral stands in the heart of the historic city center and is where Mozart married Constanze Weber in 1782! Wander through the charming streets, explore the elegant Graben and Kohlmarkt, and discover centuries of imperial history.
Hofburg Palace
Once the home and political center of the powerful Habsburg dynasty, the Hofburg is one of Vienna's most impressive imperial landmarks. Explore its grand courtyards, discover the famous Spanish Riding School and Austrian National Library, and stroll through the nearby Heldenplatz and beautiful Volksgarten rose gardens.
Schönbrunn Palace & Gloriette
The magnificent former summer residence of the Habsburg emperors. Fun fact: Mozart performed here for Empress Maria Theresa when he was just six years old! Explore the beautiful imperial gardens and walk up to the Gloriette, built in 1775, for one of the best panoramic views over Vienna.
Belvedere Palace
This stunning Baroque palace is home to Gustav Klimt's world-famous painting The Kiss. It also played a defining role in Austria's history: On May 15, 1955, the Austrian State Treaty was signed here, restoring the country's sovereignty after World War II. Don't miss the beautiful gardens and the view from the Upper Belvedere!
Vienna State Opera & Ringstraße
Opened in 1869, the Vienna State Opera is one of the world's most famous opera houses. It stands along the grand Ringstraße, lined with some of Vienna's most impressive buildings. Follow the boulevard to discover the Austrian Parliament, City Hall (Rathaus), Burgtheater, and the historic University of Vienna.
Art History Museum & Natural History Museum
Two magnificent museums face each other across the beautiful Maria-Theresien-Platz. The Kunsthistorisches Museum houses world-class art, including the largest collection of Bruegel paintings, while the Naturhistorisches Museum features everything from dinosaurs to the prehistoric Venus of Willendorf. Even if museums aren't your thing, the architecture and the square between them are worth a visit!
University of Vienna
Founded in 1365, the University of Vienna is the oldest university in the German-speaking world and one of Europe's oldest universities. Its magnificent Neo-Renaissance main building opened in 1884, more than 500 years after the university was established! Step inside to admire the impressive architecture and beautiful arcaded courtyard, or simply enjoy the building while strolling along the Ringstraße.
Vienna City Hall
Completed in 1883, Vienna's magnificent Neo-Gothic City Hall looks more like a palace than a government building! Its impressive towers and elaborate façade make it one of the most recognizable landmarks along the Ringstraße. The square in front, Rathausplatz, hosts some of Vienna's most popular seasonal events, including a summer film festival with free outdoor screenings.
Prater & Giant Ferris Wheel
Vienna's historic amusement park is home to the famous Giant Ferris Wheel, built in 1897 to celebrate Emperor Franz Joseph's 50th year on the throne. Fun fact: The world's first giant Ferris wheel debuted at the 1893 World's Fair in Chicago, just four years before Vienna built its own! Featured in movies like The Third Man and Before Sunrise, Vienna's Ferris wheel offers beautiful views over the city.
Karlskirche & Karlsplatz
One of Vienna's most beautiful Baroque churches, commissioned after the devastating plague of 1713. Its grand dome, impressive columns, and reflecting pool make it a spectacular sight. Located at Karlsplatz, it's also just a short walk from the famous Musikverein, home of the Vienna Philharmonic's New Year's Concert.
Naschmarkt
Vienna's most famous open-air market is a lively mix of food stalls, restaurants, and international specialties. Much of the market sits above the covered Wien River! Browse the colorful stalls, grab a bite, and soak up the atmosphere. If you're visiting on a Saturday, don't miss the popular flea market nearby.
MuseumsQuartier
Once home to the Habsburgs' imperial stables, the MuseumsQuartier is now one of Europe's largest cultural complexes. Explore its museums, admire the mix of historic and modern architecture, or simply relax in the lively courtyard with a coffee or drink.
Burggarten
Once a private imperial garden, Burggarten is now a peaceful green space beside the Hofburg Palace. Look out for the famous Mozart monument and the beautiful Art Nouveau Palmenhaus, a former greenhouse that's now home to a café and restaurant.
Volksgarten
One of Vienna's loveliest parks, famous for its thousands of rose bushes and elegant white Theseus Temple. Opened in 1823, the garden is just steps from the Hofburg, Parliament, and Rathaus. Particularly beautiful in late spring and early summer.
Stadtpark
Vienna's first public park, opened in 1862, is best known for its famous golden statue of Johann Strauss II, the composer of The Blue Danube. With its picturesque ponds, bridges, and greenery, it's a beautiful place for a relaxed walk through the city.
Café Central
Opened in 1876, this magnificent coffeehouse was once a meeting place for Vienna's famous thinkers and writers, including Sigmund Freud and Peter Altenberg. Its grand vaulted ceilings make it one of the city's most iconic cafés. Tip: Book a table online in advance, if reservations are available, to avoid the famously long lines.
Café Jelinek
One of our absolute favorite Viennese coffeehouses, just around the corner from where we used to live! Dating back to 1910, this wonderfully old-fashioned café feels like stepping back in time, with vintage velvet seating, marble tables, and a historic cast-iron stove. The perfect place to enjoy a Wiener Melange and homemade cake.
Café Demel
Founded in 1786, Demel is a historic Viennese pastry shop that once supplied the Habsburg imperial court. Famous for its beautiful cakes and traditional Austrian sweets, it's a must for anyone with a sweet tooth. We recommend skipping the wait and getting the Kaiserschmarrn to go. Don't forget the obligatory photo with the Hofburg.
Café Sperl
Opened in 1880, Café Sperl is a beautiful traditional Viennese coffeehouse with elegant interiors, billiard tables, and plenty of old-world charm. Its artist regulars were closely connected to the emergence of the Vienna Secession movement. A wonderful place to slow down over a Wiener Melange.
Gasthaus "Zu den 3 Hacken"
One of our favorite traditional Viennese restaurants, tucked away in the historic first district. Famous former guests include composer Franz Schubert and playwright Johann Nestroy. Come for hearty Austrian classics, a cozy atmosphere, and the experience of a proper Viennese Gasthaus. We recommend making a reservation!
Glacis Beisl
A charming Austrian restaurant hidden behind the MuseumsQuartier, serving traditional Viennese dishes in a beautiful setting. Its leafy courtyard garden, shaded by old walnut trees, is one of the loveliest spots for lunch or dinner during Vienna's warm summer months. Tip: Reserve a table in the garden!
Peti Pari
One of our favorite little pastry shops, just around the corner from where we used to live! Opened in 2020, Peti Pari specializes in beautifully crafted French-style pastries, from colorful éclairs and macarons to delicious croissants. A lovely stop for coffee and something sweet while exploring our old neighborhood.
Chez Bernard
Located on the seventh floor of the stylish Hotel MOTTO, Chez Bernard brings a little Parisian flair to Vienna. Think lush greenery, glamorous interiors, and excellent cocktails beneath an impressive glass dome. A lovely spot for an evening drink or a special dinner, with a rooftop terrace open seasonally.
Lamée Rooftop
A stylish rooftop terrace in the heart of Vienna, offering beautiful views of St. Stephen's Cathedral and the city's historic rooftops. Enjoy a Spritz with the view of St. Stephen's!
Der Dachboden
A relaxed rooftop bar at the 25hours Hotel, close to the MuseumsQuartier. With its quirky interior and panoramic views over Vienna, it's a great spot for casual drinks while watching the sunset.
Nussberg & Viennese Heurigen
Did you know Vienna has vineyards right within its city limits? Head to Nussberg for beautiful views, a glass of locally produced wine, and traditional Heurigen – charming wine taverns serving Austrian specialties. Try Wiener Gemischter Satz, a local white wine made from several grape varieties grown together. The nearby Kahlenberg is another beautiful viewpoint!
Kahlenberg
One of Vienna's most famous viewpoints, offering sweeping panoramas across the city and the Danube. Easily accessible by bus, it's a lovely addition to an excursion through Vienna's vineyards. We particularly recommend exploring nearby Nussberg and its traditional Heurigen.
Schnitzelwirt
A casual, old-school Viennese restaurant famous for its generous schnitzel portions. Don't expect fancy interiors, but come hungry for hearty Austrian comfort food and a relaxed, traditional atmosphere.
Schweizerhaus
A legendary Viennese beer garden in the Prater, best known for its crispy roasted pork knuckle (Stelze) and freshly poured beer. Its spacious garden, shaded by chestnut trees, is especially popular during the warmer months.
Amerlingbeisl
A charming Viennese Beisl tucked away in the historic Spittelberg neighborhood. Its beautiful, leafy courtyard is a hidden gem and makes it an especially lovely spot for a relaxed lunch or evening drink in summer.
Zwölf Apostelkeller
Hidden beneath Vienna's historic first district, this traditional restaurant occupies atmospheric vaulted cellars dating back to the 14th century. Known for hearty Austrian dishes, local wines, and old-world charm, it offers a memorable dining experience beneath the streets of Vienna.
Bar Campari
A little taste of Milan in the heart of Vienna! This stylish Italian-inspired bar is known for its aperitivo culture, Negronis, and Campari Spritz. A perfect stop for a pre-dinner drink while exploring the first district.
Bitzinger
One of Vienna's best-known Würstelstände, located next to the Albertina and Vienna State Opera. Try a Käsekrainer, Austria's delicious cheese-filled sausage, served with mustard, bread, and a cold drink. A classic Viennese street-food experience!
Berliner Döner
A popular, casual stop in Vienna's seventh district for a freshly prepared döner kebab. Perfect for a quick and satisfying bite while exploring the shops and bars around Mariahilfer Straße.
Café Europa
A longtime favorite of Vienna's seventh district, Café Europa has been around since 1984. Part café, part late-night bar, it's known for its relaxed atmosphere, cocktails, and lively neighborhood crowd. A great place to experience Vienna beyond the traditional tourist spots.
Salonplafond im MAK
A stylish restaurant inside Vienna's Museum of Applied Arts (MAK), combining elegant design with contemporary Austrian cuisine. The beautiful dining room and atmospheric courtyard garden make it an excellent option for a more sophisticated lunch or dinner.