18 Best things to do in Vienna, Austria
Vienna, Austria, is a city where history, culture, and elegance blend seamlessly, making it one of Europe’s most enchanting destinations. From grand imperial palaces to world-class museums and cozy coffeehouses, there’s no shortage of unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re a history geek, a lover of classical music, or simply someone who appreciates beautiful architecture like me, you’ll find plenty to fall in love with.
I visited Vienna in December 2024, when the city was glowing with twinkling lights and festive Christmas markets. This truly is one of the most magical times to visit Vienna. But no matter the season, Vienna’s charm is sure to win you over.
In this guide, I’ll share the 18 best things to do in Vienna, from must-see attractions to hidden gems that made me feel like I was walking through a real-life fairytale.
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Vienna Travel Tips:
Before diving into the best things to do in Vienna, here are a few helpful tips to make your trip smoother:
Vienna is the capital of Austria, and well connected to the rest of the world.
✈️ Airport: Vienna International Airport (VIE) – located about 20 minutes from the city center by train or car.
🚆 Train: Vienna Hauptbahnhof (Main Train Station) connects Vienna to major European cities like Prague, Budapest, and Munich.
💶 Currency: Euro (€). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s helpful to carry some cash for small vendors or market stalls.Public transportation: trams, subway (U-Bahn), buses.
🔌 Electrical Outlets: Type F plugs, with a voltage of 230V and frequency of 50Hz.
How Long Should I Stay in Vienna?
Vienna is a relatively compact city, and there’s so much to see and do that you’ll want to take your time to fully absorb its grandeur. For a first-time visitor, a stay of 3 to 4 days is ideal. Stay tuned for a detailed itinerary.
How to Get Around in Vienna
Public transportation is efficient and easy in Vienna. It is a very walkable city, but for longer distances there are buses, trams and subway (U-Bahn).
Google Maps worked well for us to help us find modes of transportation.
Consider getting the Vienna City Card for unlimited public transportation and discounts at over 200 attractions, including museums, tours, and even restaurants. You can choose between 24, 48, 72-hour, or 7-day options depending on your stay.
Best Hotels in Vienna
Here are my top choices for where to stay in Vienna.
18 Best Things to Do in Vienna
1. 📚 State Hall at the Austrian National Library
This is one place in Vienna you absolutely cannot miss. The State Hall, or Great Hall is the crown jewel of the Austrian National Library, one of the most beautiful historical libraries in Europe.
Built in the early 18th century under Emperor Charles VI, this Baroque masterpiece houses more than 200,000 historical books and manuscripts, surrounded by towering wooden bookcases, marble columns, and ornate gold detailing. My favorite is the ceiling frescoes by court painter Daniel Gran, depicting allegorical scenes of peace, war, law, and theology.
Be sure to look for the four giant Venetian globes, each over a meter in diameter.
Hours:
Closed Mondays
Tuesday – Sunday 10:00 – 18:00 (Closes 21:00 on Thursdays)
Purchase tickets here if you want to avoid waiting in line: https://ticket.onb.ac.at/
Having a Vienna City Card will get you 20% discount, but there is no way to pre-purchase the ticket with the discount so you have to queue when you visit. I visited about 30 minutes after opening, and waited about 10 minutes in line.
2. 💫 Augustinerkirche
One of the most overlooked, underrated gems in Vienna is the Augustinerkirche, or Church of the Augustinian Friars. For nearly 300 years the church served as the Habsburg monarchy’s court church, hosting several royal weddings.
Location: Josefsplatz, 1010 Vienna (next to the Austrian National Library)
Entry: Free
From the outside the church has a really unassuming appearance – but once you step inside you’ll be captivated by its stunning Gothic interior, with soaring ceilings beautifully lined with a series of chandeliers.
While Vienna is home to many magnificent churches, Augustinerkirche stands out for its understated beauty. Unlike the ornate designs of more famous churches, its white and gold tones and symmetrical layout create a sense of calm and elegance.
The entrance is adjacent to the Austrian National Library, and it is free to enter so make sure to pop in and admire its graceful beauty.
3. ☕ Viennese Coffee Houses
One of the best things to do in Vienna, hands down, is to spend time in a traditional Viennese coffee house. These elegant cafés are more than just places to grab a drink; they’re cultural institutions steeped in history and charm. Visiting a Viennese coffeehouse is more than just ordering a coffee; it’s an experience.
The interiors of traditional cafes are often elegantly decorated with antique furniture, marble tabletops, and even crystal chandeliers overhead. These historic cafes have been the meeting places for famous writers, musicians, and intellectuals over the years and contribute to the city’s identity and history.
By the way, you won’t be ordering a “coffee” in Veinna. Try a Wiener Melange (single espresso with steamed milk) or an Einspanner, an espresso topped with whipped cream and served in glass. Maybe you can try a Franziskaner, or perhaps a Kleiner Brauner? It’s a whole new coffee world.
These coffeehouses are ideal spots for people-watching, reading, or simply relaxing while enjoying your new favorite coffee.
Oh and don’t forget the cake! Vienna’s delicious pastries, such as Apfelstrudel (apple strudel) or the famous Sachertorte (chocolate cake) is a must to pair with your coffee!
With over 600 coffeehouses in Vienna, it might be hard to choose but here are some of the most famous ones to check out:
Cafe Central
Perhaps the most famous coffeehouse, Café Central was frequented by figures like Sigmund Freud, Leopold Wien, and Peter Altenberg. You can book a reservation online at https://cafecentral.wien/en/ or queue in line. The first time I tried going to the cafe the line was stretching all the way around the building so we decided to skip it. Next morning we arrived at 8:15 am, about 15 minutes after opening, and still waited in line for about 35 minutes. My tip would be to arrive shortly before it opens so you can be one of the first in line and to be seated.
Cafe Sacher
Café Sacher is another iconic café in Vienna, famous for its world-renowned Sachertorte. The cafe is a historic institution that has been serving locals and visitors for 180 years. Sachertorte is an indulgent chocolate cake with apricot jam, and a smooth chocolate glaze. Tasting a Sachertorte at its birthplace, while soaking in the old-world charm of the cafe, is an essential must do in Vienna. The cafe is located next to the Vienna State Opera.
Open daily 8 AM – 11 PM.
4. 🖼️ Kunsthistorisches Museum (Art History Museum)
If there is one museum you have to visit amongst the numerous great museums in Vienna… it absolutely has to be the Kunsthistorisches Museum.
Not only is the building itself a work of art (the grandiose interior alone might be a reason to visit), the museum contains works by iconic artists like Rembrandt, Vermeer, Titian, and Raphael, as well as a remarkable selection of ancient artifacts from Egypt, Greece, and Rome. Some of the most famous works include The Tower of Babel, Peasant Wedding, and Hunters in the Snow by Pieter Bruegel the Elder.
📍 Location: Maria-Theresien-Platz, 1010 Vienna
🕰️ Opening Hours: Daily except Mondays
In addition to the stunning interiors and world-class art collections, the museum is home to my favorite cafe in Vienna, the Café-Restaurant in the beautiful Cupola Hall of the museum. You can enjoy a delicious coffee or a light meal while soaking in the museum’s extraordinary atmosphere. Be sure to take a moment to admire the view from the second floor of the museum, as the perspective of the Cupola Hall from above is truly breathtaking.
5. ⛪ St. Stephen’s Cathedral
St. Stephen’s Cathedral (Stephansdom) is one of Vienna’s most iconic landmarks and one of the best things to do in Vienna. Dating back to the 12th century, this awe-inspiring Gothic masterpiece towers over Stephansplatz with its colorful tiled roof, needle-like South Tower, and ornate stonework.
📍 Location: Stephansplatz, 1010 Vienna
Entering is free, but certain areas require tickets.
- ✅ Free areas: The front nave and part of the northern side
- 🎟️ Ticketed areas: Main altar and nave, catacombs, South Tower (viewpoint), North Tower, and Dom Museum Wien
You can purchase combination tickets to access all the key areas.
St. Stephen’s is not only a religious site but also a cultural hub, hosting organ concerts and other events throughout the year. Depending on when you are visiting, check out the current concerts at the St. Stephen’s Cathedral.
- End of May – October (Fri & Sat): Antonio Vivaldi’s The Four Seasons
- Mid April – December (Thu, Sat, Sun): Giant organ concerts inside the cathedral
6. ✨ Palais Daun-Kinsky
The Palais Daun-Kinsky is a small but beautiful Baroque palace nestled in the heart of Vienna. Built in the early 18th century, this palace is a masterpiece of Baroque architecture, featuring a grand marble staircase, ornate stucco work, and a breathtaking ceiling fresco in the entrance hall.
While the palace now hosts private events like weddings, galas, and cultural performances, the entryway and the grand staircase are freely accessible to the public on weekdays, making it a quick and elegant stop on your Vienna itinerary.
📍 Location: Freyung 4, 1010 Vienna
🕰️ Opening Hours: Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Consider these popular activities for Vienna!
7. 🥞 Kaiserschmarrn from Cafe Demel
Kaiserschmarrn is a light, shredded pancake served warm, dusted with powdered sugar, and often accompanied by a rich fruit compote, typically plum or apricot. It’s golden on the outside and fluffy on the inside, the perfect amount of sweet and literally melts in your mouth.
While many places in Vienna serve Kaiserschmarrn, Café Demel is renowned for offering one of the best renditions of this classic Austrian dish. As one of the city’s most iconic coffeehouses, Demel is celebrated not only for its royal history and elegant ambiance but also for its decadent pastries and desserts. At Demel, you can enjoy the fluffy, caramelized Kaiserschmarrn served on a plate in the café or, for a more casual experience, grab it to-go in a convenient paper cone just as I did.
8. 🎼 Vienna State Opera
The Vienna State Opera (Wiener Staatsoper) is one of the world’s most prestigious opera houses, and one of the most iconic buildings in the city of Vienna. Located on the famous Karlsplatz, this architectural masterpiece has hosted countless world-class performances, from operas and ballets to concerts since 1869.
With its lavish interiors, marble staircases, and gold-accented décor, the Vienna State Opera is a must-visit whether or not you’re a fan of classical music. And luckily, there are two ways to explore this masterpiece:
Attend a live performance at the Vienna State Opera
There’s nothing quite like watching a world-class opera or ballet inside this historic venue. Tickets often sell out in advance, so be sure to check the official website for seat availability and performance schedules:
- Check the official website www.wiener-staatsoper.at/ for a schedule of events, available seats (including a diagram) and to purchase tickets.
- If seats are sold out, there is a way to get standing tickets on the day of. At 10 am on the morning of the show, tickets for the standing areas will be released on the official website. www.wiener-staatsoper.at/. Prices will range €13-18 depending on location.
- Arrive about an hour before the show to explore the opulent interiors, and to grab a drink at one of the bars inside.
Vienna Opera House Tour
The second way to see the Vienna Opera house is to book a guided tour. These 40 minute tours cost €15 and allow visitors to explore the stunning halls, backstage areas and the grand staircase while learning about the history behind the opera house.
Book tickets here https://www.wiener-staatsoper.at/en/guided-tours/
9. 🌿 Brasserie Palmenhaus
One of the most beautiful cafés in Vienna, Brasserie Palmenhaus is a former royal greenhouse turned elegant brasserie and café. Snuggled up against a wing of the Hofburg Palace, this Art Nouveau gem offers lush interiors filled with towering palms and greenery, creating a peaceful escape right in the heart of the city.
From the outdoor terrace, you’ll enjoy a direct view of the Burggarten, making it an ideal place to unwind after exploring the Hofburg complex or nearby museums like the Albertina.
📍 Location: Burggarten 1, 1010 Vienna
Palmenhaus offers a full food menu with Austrian dishes, but we stopped by just for coffee and drinks. The relaxing, light-filled space makes it easy to linger.
10. 👑 Schonbrunn Palace
One of Vienna’s most iconic landmarks, Schönbrunn Palace is a must-visit for anyone interested in imperial history, grand architecture, or beautifully manicured gardens. This was once the residence of the Habsburgs with imperial ceremonial rooms, magnificent gardens, and even a zoo. It is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The Palace has a total of 1,441 rooms, 45 of which can be visited. Can you believe Mozart made music in the mirrored hall of Schönbrunn Palace as a six year-old prodigy?
Location: Schönbrunner Schloßstraße 47, 1130 Vienna
Getting There:
Schönbrunn Palace is just a short ride from the city center via tram or subway (U4 line to Schönbrunn station).
We visited during December when the Christmas market was set up in the courtyard. It was a magical winter experience! If you’re visiting around the holidays, don’t miss this festive market filled with crafts, gifts, mulled wine, and seasonal treats.
Tickets:
There are several ticket options, depending on how much of the palace you want to explore. I did the State Apartments Tour, which is the shortest self-guided tour and includes an audio guide. There are different ticket types for the Schonbrunn Palace and you can get them here.
If you prefer guided tours, these two are great options.
I also recommend attending a Mozart and Strauss concert at the palace for a dreamy experience!
11. ⛪ St. Peter’s Church (Peterskirche)
This one was a real pleasant surprise. Tucked just off the bustling Graben pedestrian street, St. Peter’s Church (Peterskirche) is one of Vienna’s most underrated treasures.
I was already impressed with the exterior decorated with green domes and statues, but the interiors really took my breath away. The admission is free.
Step inside and you’ll be greeted by an explosion of Baroque opulence. From the ornate golden altars and marble columns to the soaring dome painted with dramatic frescoes, everything was strikingly beautiful. It’s the kind of place that makes you stop in your tracks and look up in awe.
📍 Location: Petersplatz 1, 1010 Vienna
💡 Tip: Look out for free organ concerts that are occasionally held in the afternoons. It’s a truly atmospheric way to experience this beautiful space.
This is another great place to attend a concert in Vienna. Imagine listening to Mozart, Beethoven, Vivaldi’s classical sounds in this jaw-droppingly beautiful setting. Book this highly rated concert performed by Classic Ensemble Vienna at the Peterskirche.
12. 🌟 Ferstel Passage
The Ferstel Passage in Vienna is located near the Graben St. This elegant 19th-century arcade is known for its stunning Renaissance Revival style architecture, completed with vaulted ceilings, intricate stonework, and a beautiful glass roof that fills the space with natural light.
Lined with boutique shops, cozy cafés, and artful storefronts, the passage is perfect for a quiet stroll or a coffee break. Whether you’re shopping or simply soaking in the historic charm, Ferstel Passage offers a delightful escape in the heart of the busy city.
13. Hofburg Palace
Hofburg Palace in Vienna is one of the most important cultural and historical landmarks in Austria, serving as the former imperial residence of the Habsburg dynasty.
Today, the sprawling complex is home to several museums and institutions, including the opulent Imperial Apartments, the Sisi Museum, and the Hofburg Chapel where you can hear the famous Vienna Boys’ Choir perform during Sunday Mass.
Location: Michaelerkuppel, 1010 Wien, Austria
Book various tickets here.
Or you can book this highly rated guided tour of the Sisi Museum, Hofburg Palace and the gardens.
14. 🖼️ Belvedere Palace
Belvedere Palace in Vienna is a breathtaking Baroque masterpiece that offers a unique blend of art, history, and stunning architecture. The complex is divided into the Upper Belvedere and Lower Belvedere, connected by beautifully landscaped gardens.
Address: Prinz-Eugen-Straße 27, 1030 Wien, Austria
The Upper Belvedere is home to an impressive collection of Austrian art, including The Kiss by Gustav Klimt. It is renowned for its grand architecture, beautiful gardens, and sweeping views of Vienna.
The Lower Belvedere was originally a royal residence and now showcases temporary exhibitions, as well as the palace’s historical rooms and stunning ceiling frescoes.
If you have time, I highly recommend exploring both levels. But if you’re short on time and must choose just one, make it the Upper Belvedere. Find tickets below:
- Upper Belvedere entrance tickets
- Lower Belvedere entrance tickets
- Guided tour of Upper Belvedere and the surrounding gardens (skip-the-line)
15. ⛪ Karlsplatz
Karlskirche (St. Charles’s Church) in Vienna is another stunning Baroque masterpiece and one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Located in Karlsplatz, the church is known for its impressive green dome, two grand columns, and beautiful frescoes that adorn its interior.
The Karlskirch church does require a paid ticket. The ticket grants you access to the church interiors, and a staircase that leads you to a panorama terrace.
As with many of Vienna’s great churches, the Karlskirche holds classical concerts that makes a wonderful evening activity in Vienna.
Address: Kreuzherrengasse 1, 1040 Wien, Austria
There are a few things on my list that I’ve missed on this trip. Listing them for you to add them!
16. Justizpalast
Justizpalast, or the Palace of Justice, is the Supreme Court of Austria. The interiors are beautiful, with the highlight being the grand staircase beneath a glass-domed ceiling.
It’s free to visit, but unfortunately, it was closed to the public on the day I went. Typically open Monday to Friday, from 7:30 AM to 3:30 PM. If you’re in the area and it’s open, it’s absolutely worth stepping inside for a quick look.
Address: Schmerlingplatz 10-11, 1010 Vienna
17. Albertina Museum & Albertina Modern
The ALBERTINA Museum Vienna & the Albertina Modern are the largest museum for modern art in Central Europe with permanent art exhibitions like Monet-Picasso, and temporary exhibitions.
The ALBERTINA Museum and Albertina Modern together form the largest museum for modern and contemporary art in Central Europe. The museum’s impressive permanent collection includes works by Monet, Picasso, Degas, and more. In addition to the classics, the museum regularly hosts excellent temporary exhibitions.
Address: Albertinaplatz 1, 1010 Vienna (located right behind the Vienna State Opera)
18. Prater
Prater is a historic amusement park and a recreational space, with an iconic landmark giant Ferris wheel dating from 1897.
Get skip-the-line tickets to the iconic Wiener Riesenrad Ferris wheel at Prater Park for your trip.
Beyond the rides, Prater Park also offers walking trails, cafés, and open spaces perfect for a leisurely stroll or picnic.
Address: Riesenradplatz 1, 1020 Vienna
Christmas Markets in Vienna
Vienna is one of the most magical places to visit in Europe during the festive season. I’ve written a whole guide on the different Christmas markets in Vienna, so click below to read it.
Map
I’ve pinned all the hotels and sightseeing spots, cafes mentioned in this blog post.
Watch my Vienna best spots inspiration video:
USE MY CHECKLIST TO PLAN YOUR TRIP!
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