Things To Do in Vienna: Can’t-Miss Itineraries for All Travelers!

Located east of the famous Danube River, this vibrant European city beckons travelers from all over the globe. Vienna, a city full of surprises, combines imperial traditions, classical music, with cozy modern charms. Home to rich classical music history, a wealth of art, and amazing architecture, Vienna is one of the most elegant cities in all of Europe.

Speaking of Europe, if you're planning on doing a multi-country euro trip, why not check out our list of awesome recommendations we have in store for all travelers? Find our list of things to do in destinations around the world here.

Otherwise, lets talk more about our main character today: Vienna. Whether you're traveling soon or doing research prior, we've went ahead and listed some of the best things to do in Vienna. Continue on!

What Should I See in Vienna Austria?

Whether you’re a traveler that loves historic places or one that travels in search of the most amazing photos, Vienna has everything and more. If you’ve never been to Vienna before, the following places and attractions are definitely a must-see!

The Schönbrunn Palace

Originally built in 1969 as a hunting lodge, this huge Baroque-style palace later became the Royal family of Hapsburg’s summer residence. Today, it’s one of the top tourist attractions in Vienna with an average of four million visits per year! In the Schönbrunn Palace, you’ll also find the Privy Garden, the Imperial Carriage Museum, and the Schönbrunn Zoo. 

The Vienna Ferris Wheel “Wiener Riesenrad”

Considered one of the largest and earliest Ferris wheels ever made, this is one of Vienna’s best spots which every tourist shouldn’t miss! This 212 feet tall Ferris wheel can be found at the entrance of Prater amusement park in the municipality of Leopoldstadt. From the top of the Ferris wheel, you can get amazing views of the city and the Danube river. This is our favorite among the all fun things to do in Vienna!

The Imperial Place Hofburg 

Probably, the most important building in the history of  Austria, the Imperial Palace was the head of the Great Habsburg Empire. Visiting this location will allow you to understand the history of the royals who once ruled Austria. The palace is known for its amazing preservation of the royal family’s antique belongings. Inside you’ll find all the art they loved, original furnishings, decorations, and items that date from the the1800s. 

Stephen’s Cathedral 

A breathtaking tiled-roof gothic church that makes any first-time visitor’s jaw drop, St. Stephen’s Cathedral is a gothic structure built in the 12th century. The cathedral itself is 107 meters long and 34 meters wide. It has four towers and 12 bells. One of the bells is called the “Pummerin” and it’s the second-biggest free-swinging church bell in all of Europe. If you’re ever visiting Vienna, this is the place to go first! 

What Can You Do in Vienna in 3 days? 

Vienna is a city surrounded by vineyards alongside magnificent cathedrals, palaces, and architectural wonders from the Art Nouveau period. Strolling around Vienna, you’ll see Baroque streetscapes, artsy cafes, and craft beer bars! But if you have just three days to spend in this city, here are our top recommendations. 

Take a Tour 

Lots of different types of tours are available for tourists in Vienna. You can even get a free walking tour that will take you to some of the best attractions in the city center. If you don’t mind spending a bit of money, you can also pay for a bus tour that’ll take you to many popular locations in the city. Other great tours include wine tasting, pastry tasting, private street photo tours, and flying above Vienna with a pilot. 

Visit Art Museums 

Vienna is home to several world-class museums such as the Museum of Art History, the Belvedere, and the Leopold Museum. In these museums, you’ll find the rarest collection of Austrian art from the Middle Ages to the present. 

Try Viennese Coffee Houses 

Don’t miss visiting an authentic traditional Vienna coffee house during your trip. In Vienna, coffee is a social experience, art, and legacy. In fact, coffee houses in Vienna have a history that dates back to as early as the 1600s. Most coffee houses serve coffee on a silver tray with a glass of water, newspaper, delicious pastries, and a menu of Australian specialties. Guests enjoy sipping their coffee at elegant establishments. You can stay as long as you like—all you need is to purchase a single coffee.  

Visit the famous Naschmarkt 

Locals often call this place “Vienna’s stomach” simply because it’s the most popular market in the city. Here you’ll find all kinds of detectable local food and ingredients including some of Vienna’s best meats, cheese, and vegetables. Here you can also find many stalls selling international food, fried street food, and sweets. 

What Should I Not Miss in Vienna? 

Vienna’s Wiener Staatsoper “State Opera House”

Did you know that Vienna is called “The City of Music”? It’s because four of the top 10 classical legends (Mozart, Beethoven, Schubert, and Haydn) called this city their home. So, if you’re ever in Vienna, you mustn’t miss its local music performance. In fact, we forbid you to leave this city without seeing a world-class opera performance in the State Opera House! Vienna’s Wiener Staatsoper is simply one of the best opera houses in the world known for its rich varied performances and events each season. The opera house is also open for day tours. It’s filled with some of the most breathtaking tapestries and statues. 

Vienna’s Christmas Market 

If you’re ever in the city during the ber-months, then you’ll definitely want to go to Vienna’s amazing Christmas markets in Karlsplatz. There are so many things to do in Vienna, Austria in December and Christmas, but probably the best is their lively Christmas stalls and lights! Just strolling through the stalls you’ll enjoy the Yuletide atmosphere, spicy aromas of wine, and cute farm animals on display. These markets also serve the best warm punch called the “Weihnachtspunsch” which comes in many delicious flavors. 

Is Vienna Worth Visiting? 

A gem of a city that’s often overlooked, Vienna should be on every traveler’s dream destination list! The perfect combination of culture, art, coffee, and history, Vienna has everything for everyone. It doesn’t matter if you’re traveling solo, with your best friends, or your fiance, Vienna is our most recommended European city to visit this year. 

Plan your trip to Vienna now! 

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