What Is Vienna Known For? Top 10 Things to Experience!

At the heart of Europe, Vienna is a window for the ultimate getaway for music, art, and history enthusiasts. History of many years embraces this Austrian city. The gothic structures will give you the feeling of time travel. 

Many tourists find Vienna fascinating because of its culture, cuisine, and architecture. Music is an integral part of Vienna’s cultural heritage. You can’t imagine Vienna without its enriched classical music fame. The countryside is also blessed with picturesque scenery.

Vienna earned the title of the world’s most livable city in 2022. Ready to visit this heaven on earth? Find out where to stay in Vienna and things to do in this beautiful city. So, let us find out what makes Vienna so popular among travelers. 

Why Travelers Love Vienna

Vienna, Austria, is the city of dreams, luring tourists in with its exquisite aura and history. 

The city is a complete prize box for all types of travelers. If you’re a fan of classical music or architecture, Vienna is a solid choice that will not disappoint. Vienna also has a rich culinary scene that’s sure to satisfy foodies. 

Vienna has the vibe of laid-back vacations where you roam around the city and indulge in wine tasting. It also offers excellent sightseeing and shopping experiences. Go on a walking tour around Vienna’s mesmerizing city squares. You’ll find several gardens and aesthetic places to enhance your travel photography.

Vienna is a spectacular destination for a romantic getaway. You can take your partner on modernized gothic-era dates, surrounded by this city’s unique historical charm.

What Is Vienna Known for?

Many things make Vienna stand out from the bunch. While it’s not the most affordable city, there are still plenty of ways to travel on a budget. Here are some highlights of Vienna that you shouldn’t miss out on when you travel there.

10. Danube River 

If you’re familiar with geography, you’re probably aware that the Danube River is the second longest river in Europe. It flows through several European countries, Vienna included. And of course! There’s a musical piece based on the Danube River titled “The Blue Danube Waltz.” 

A fun fact about Vienna is that it’s the only European city divided by the river twice. This is the result of urbanization which split the river flow. The smaller waterway that flows through the city center is the Donaukanal, or Danube canal. 

River cruises are popular among tourists. Boat rides through the Danube canal offer a breathtaking experience. There are several aesthetic beachside and riverbank cafes. You can also go to Danube Island for fun activities out in nature or on the water. 

9. Schönbrunn Palace‍

Visit Schönbrunn palace for a glimpse of European royal luxury. This imperial palace is a summer residence with over 1400 rooms, built in the 17th century for the Habsburg family. 

Schönbrunn palace is now open to all tourists and is an excellent family-friendly attraction. You can visit at least 40 rooms and see how the royals renovated the palace. There are also various museums you can indulge in, showcasing luxurious carriages used by the imperial family. 

The palace also has a zoo within its radius. Established in 1752, the Schönbrunn Zoo is the oldest in the world and houses over 700 different species of animals. 

8. St. Stephen’s Cathedral

St. Stephen’s Cathedral is a beautiful piece of gothic architecture. The multicolored roof tiles make it look like it’s straight out of a vintage painting. 

This structure took 65 years to build and was fully completed in the 14th century. However, its architectural history continued to expand for over 200 years. This is a historic part of Viennese culture. The wedding of Emperor Franz Joseph I and Empress Elisabeth took place in this very cathedral. 

The cathedral’s interior is enhanced with gorgeous stained-glass windows that will leave you awestruck. The cathedral also houses one of the most impressive organs. The organ has about 17,000 pipes and is the star of the show for many religious events. 

There are various guides that offer informative tours of the Cathedral. If you’re into spooky experiences, you should definitely visit the catacombs!

7. Classical Music 

Music is the heart of Vienna. World-famous composers like Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and Ludwig Van Beethoven spent many years in Vienna. Strauss II, Mahler, Schubert, and many others also started their musical journey there. 

For classical music lovers, this city is an absolute treasure. The Viennese still celebrate their musical legacy, enjoying several festivals throughout the year.

The main highlights are the Vienna State Opera and the Vienna Philharmonic’s New Year’s Concert. 

The Vienna State Opera was built from 1861 to 1869, with a seating capacity of 2,284. It hosts about 300 performances each year, including concerts, operas, and ballets.

You don’t want to miss out on the ornate interiors and beautiful auditorium. The feeling is unmatched when you remember that Mozart and Beethoven had their premiere in the State Opera.

Definitely keep this on your bucket list when you visit Vienna. 

6. Hundertwasser House 

Freidensreich Hundertwasser is a famous Austrian artist and architect. He used his artistic skills to design one of the most beautiful apartment buildings in Vienna, known as the Hundertwasserhaus.

This beloved tourist attraction is a gem for travelers who are into art and architecture.

The building has a unique, irregular shape. The floors are undulating, and the roofs are covered with luscious green grass and trees. These apartments almost resemble fairy houses. The green roof system doesn’t just look out of this world, but it also promotes sustainability. 

The building has 50 apartments, mini shops, and restaurants. There’s a museum as well, which showcases Hundertwasser’s artworks.

5. Wine 

It’s not surprising that Vienna is also ahead of the wine game. Vienna has some of the most extensive vineyards grown outside the city. You have to hop on a train from downtown and go to the outskirts of Vienna for a wine tour.

It’s fascinating that 700 hectares of land are used entirely for grape cultivation. White wine is most popular among Viennese people, but many farms produce red wine. Vineyards are a massive part of the city’s culture and also boost Vienna’s economy.

One of the most famous grape-growing areas is Grinzing. Travelers can go there for leisure time and visit various wine taverns. You can enjoy a wine tasting while trying authentic Viennese cuisine.

Look out for wine events like Wiener Weinwandertag, which translates to wine tasting day.

4. Coffee Houses 

Vienna’s coffee house culture has been a hallmark of the city’s identity since the 17th century. It has even been added to the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage list.

Throughout the years, many coffee houses have taken over the city. You’ll notice one on every street. Many locals also consider them a social meeting point. The decor of Viennese coffee houses is elegant and sophisticated, and every place has a unique ambiance. 

These coffee houses are ideal for grabbing your morning espresso during your trip. 

3. Viennese Cuisine 

Viennese cuisine is a unique blend of traditional Austrian dishes and international influences. It reflects Vienna’s history as a cultural crossroads. You’re sure to come across several gourmet restaurants on your visit. 

It’s hard to imagine Viennese cuisine without Wiener Schnitzel. This dish is the most famous in Vienna, consisting of a slice of veal meat that’s breaded and fried. You can try this with potato salad and cranberry sauce on the side. 

Viennese desserts are irresistible, and you must try Sacher Torte. This is a mouthwatering cake packed with chocolate flavor and a kick of apricot jam. To make it even better, it has whipped cream on it! 

Go on a food tour for the full Vienna culinary experience. The taste of Viennese cuisine will linger in your mouth even after the trip.

2. Christmas Markets 

Christmas markets are traditional events in Vienna that take place from November to Christmas Eve every year. These festive markets look like they’re straight out of a fantasy movie. Walk into anyone and you’ll immediately feel the Christmas spirit embrace you in the joyful atmosphere. 

The specialty of Vienna’s Christmas markets is the decor. Fairy lights illuminate the stalls and streets of the city, and the Christmas tree decorations create a magical ambiance. People usually sip spiced wine while doing their Christmas shopping. You can also sample traditional Viennese Christmas food!

1. Snow Globes 

Snow globes are a popular souvenir all over the world. However, did you know that the first snow globe was invented in Vienna? Erwin Perzy, an Austrian who produced surgical instruments, gave birth to the concept of snow globes in 1900. 

In 2019, UNESCO labeled snow globes as a part of Vienna’s cultural heritage.

You can visit the Perzy family workshop, which manufactures snow globes. One of their descendants still operates the business today. Of course, don’t forget to purchase a Viennese snow globe as a souvenir from your trip!

Plan Your Dream Trip to Vienna!

Vienna is the ideal city for travelers who love to indulge themselves in music and culture. Honeymoon trips to Vienna are fantastic due to the romantic, dreamy aesthetics. It’s the perfect destination for a relaxing getaway. 

Aside from these ten highlights, there are many other landmarks and beautiful things to experience in the city. So, why not head to Vienna for your upcoming vacation? Start planning your dream trip to Vienna with Pilot!