Top 20 UNIQUE Things To Do in Vienna
The many wonderful things to in Vienna make this metropolis a true pearl in the heart of Europe. The Austrian capital is well worth a visit, as it offers a wealth of attractions and exciting activities. World-famous buildings such as Schönbrunn Palace or St. Stephen’s Cathedral, a mix of tradition and modernity, and the legendary coffeehouse culture make Vienna truly unique in the world. As the former center of the Habsburg monarchy, Vienna’s rich history is reflected in the glamorous buildings of the Vienna Ring Road, which attracts more than 13 million visitors each year. Known as Europe’s cultural treasure trove, the city’s museums are among the best in the world. In addition to these, there are many other unique attractions, so sightseeing in Vienna is always a lot of fun.
In this comprehensive travel guide, you will find the best things to do in Vienna, including insider tips. We show you great photos, the best activities and highlights, reveal great places to stay and where to book cheap tickets.
Good to know!
If you are still looking for a very special place to stay in Vienna, then we can highly recommend the charming and stylish Hotel Altstadt Vienna.
2 in Vienna is enough to visit some major attractions. However, if you wish to explore the city more fully, it is recommended to stay at least 3-4 days in Vienna for an optimal experience.
The most popular time to visit Vienna is between May and October. Many people also come in the winter to experience Vienna’s famous Christmas markets.
You can save time and some money by buying a Vienna Pass. More than 90 tourist attractions are free and travel on the Hop-on Hop-off Bus is included.
Belvedere Palace
A visit to the Belvedere Palace is one of the top 10 best things to do in Vienna, and a tour of this impressive Baroque palace is on every traveler’s bucket list. It was built between 1764 and 1790 by order of Prince Eugene as a summer residence. Today, a tour of the palace reveals two beautiful palaces, the Upper and Lower Belvedere, as well as a magnificent park. Some of the attractions, such as the gardens with the reflecting pond, the three large terraces with water basins, the chamber garden and the oldest alpine garden in Europe, can even be visited free of charge. Another must-see is the museum in the Upper Belvedere, which houses the world’s largest collection of Gustav Klimt’s paintings.
Tip: Avoid the long lines by buying an online ticket. Going to the Upper Belvedere to see the Klimt Collection is especially popular in Vienna.
St. Stephen’s Cathedral
The St. Stephen’s Cathedral is Vienna’s landmark and one of the city’s must-sees. At 136 meters, it is the tallest church in Austria, and its extraordinary architecture amazes visitors from all over the world. Impressive are the 4 towers that give the so-called “Steffl” its iconic appearance. There are 13 bells, with the Pummerin being one of the largest free-swinging bells in the world. The roof is decorated with colorful tiles showing the imperial and royal double-headed eagle and the coats of arms of the city of Vienna and Austria. The interior of the church, with its many valuable altars and cathedral treasures, is also well worth a visit. Another attraction is the breathtaking viewpoints. The most beautiful panorama can be seen from the Pummerin lookout on the north tower.
Tip: Some of the best boutique hotels in Vienna are located in this area. A recommendation for a special vacation is the Boutique Hotel am Stephansplatz.
Schönbrunn Palace
One of the most important attractions in Vienna is Schönbrunn Palace, the former summer residence of the Habsburgs. Owned by the Habsburgs since 1569, the baroque complex was extensively redesigned under Maria Theresa beginning in 1743 and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its historical significance and magnificent furnishings. The palace has 1,441 rooms, 45 of which are open to the public as museums. Highlights of the grounds include the imperial state rooms, the Schönbrunn Zoo and the magnificent gardens, which are even free to visit. One of the best things to do in Vienna is to visit the Gloriette with its café, from where you can enjoy a magnificent view of Schönbrunn Palace.
Tip: If you would like to learn more about the fascinating history of the palace and the Habsburgs, you can book yourself a guided tour.
Vienna State Opera
The Vienna State Opera is one of the main places of interest in the center of Vienna. It is one of the most important opera houses in the world and was built in 1869 according to the plans of the architects August Siccard von Siccardsburg and Eduard van der Nüll. Destroyed during World War II, it was reopened in 1955 and an evening at the Vienna State Opera and enjoying classical concerts in Vienna is still an unforgettable experience. But a guided tour of the opera house is also worthwhile, as you can take a look behind the scenes. On a tour, you will be amazed by the magnificent Grand Staircase, the Tea Room, the Marble Room, the Schwindfoyer and the Gustav Mahler Hall, as well as the auditorium with a view of the stage.
Tip: Tickets for a performance at the opera can be easily reserved in advance on the official website of the Vienna State Opera.
Hofburg Palace
One of the most magnificent palaces in the center of Vienna is the Hofburg. It houses the private apartments and magnificent state rooms of the former imperial family. For over seven centuries, the Hofburg was the seat of Habsburg rulers and is still the official residence of the Austrian President. With more than 300,000 square meters of floor space, it is one of the largest contiguous building complexes in the world. It also houses interesting museums such as the Sisi Museum, the National Library with the State Hall, the Imperial Treasury and the Spanish Riding School with its world-famous Lipizzaner horses.
Tip: Be sure to visit on your trip to Vienna the beautiful Michaelerplatz and Heldenplatz squares, as well as the Burggarten and Volksgarten parks.
Vienna Prater & Giant Ferris Wheel
A visit to the Vienna Prater with its iconic Giant Ferris Wheel is one of the absolute best things to do in Vienna. It is a popular meeting place for locals and tourists alike, and families with children in particular will enjoy a visit to this unique attraction. Since 1897, the Prater has been delighting visitors with its impressive Giant Ferris Wheel and many popular attractions such as carousels, mirror cabins, ghost trains and roller coasters. The mix of old and new rides is particularly unique, giving the amusement park a nostalgic atmosphere. Vienna’s Madame Tussauds is also located there. Also, worth a visit is the Wurstelprater with the famous Schweizerhaus, where you can enjoy local cuisine.
Tip: Admission to this amusement park is free of charge, only the rides are subject to an entrance fee. A walk through the Prater is well worth it!
Spanish Riding School
A very special experience in Vienna is a visit to the Spanish Riding School, a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage Site since December 2015. Located in the magnificent Vienna Hofburg, the Spanish Riding School is known worldwide for its famous Lipizzaner horses. A highlight is the beautiful Riding Hall, built between 1729 and 1735 for the riding lessons of the aristocratic youth, where demonstrations are held today. The precision with which the white horses move in time to classical music is unique. Take a guided tour of the Spanish Riding School and the Lipizzaner stallions to learn more about its history and admire its impressive architecture.
Tip: Tickets for the famous Lipizzaner show, morning training or guided tours of the Spanish Riding School can also be booked online!
Vienna City Hall
The Vienna City Hall, built between 1872 and 1883 under the direction of Friedrich von Schmidt in the neo-Gothic style, is certainly one of the most impressive sights in Vienna. The imposing tower of 97.9 meters, on which the so-called “Iron City Hall Man” sits, is spectacular. Today, the Vienna City Hall is still the official residence of the mayor and also serves as a venue for numerous events, including balls, film festivals and sporting events. Beginning in November, the Rathausplatz square is transformed into an atmospheric Christmas market, and from January to March, the large park in front of City Hall becomes one of the world’s most beautiful skating rinks.
State Hall of the Austrian National Library
The State Hall of the Austrian National Library is one of Vienna’s true gems, and a visit here is not to be missed on any trip to the city. It is part of the Hofburg Palace and is the largest baroque library in Europe, measuring almost 80 meters in length and 30 meters in height. A whopping 200,000 historical books are stored in the 128 wooden shelves. Most of the works date from 1501 to 1850 and are of unimaginable value. The dome of the hall, decorated with colorful frescoes, is also worth seeing. In the center is the marble sculpture of the former Emperor, surrounded by 16 other statues of rulers of the Austro-Spanish Habsburg family.
Natural History Museum
With an impressive collection of 30 million objects, the Natural History Museum is one of the top museums in Vienna. One of the most important exhibits is the “Venus of Willendorf,” a 29,500-year-old, 11-centimeter-tall Paleolithic figurine, which is displayed in the “Venus Cabinet” along with other interesting archaeological finds. A highlight for families with children is the Dinosaur Room, which features skeletons and remains of giant prehistoric creatures. These include a lifelike Allosaurus, the world’s first living model of a terror bird, and a fascinating horned dinosaur skull. Also impressive is the Meteorite Hall with 1,100 rocks and a 3D simulator of a meteorite impact.
Tip: An insider’s tip is to take a guided tour to the roof of the Natural History Museum. From up there you have a great view of Vienna’s Old Town and the Vienna Ring Road.
MuseumsQuartier
The MuseumsQuartier Wien, also known as MQ, is a fascinating art district in Vienna’s trendy 7th district of Neubau, close to the Vienna Ring Road in the city center. It is home to some of Vienna’s most interesting museums, including the Leopold Museum, which houses hundreds of masterpieces of Viennese modernism, and the mumok – Museum of Modern Art Ludwig Foundation Vienna. The MQ is not only home to exciting museums, but also a trendy bar scene and cool events. Another unique feature of the MuseumsQuartier is the inner courtyard with its modern outdoor lounge furniture, which has become a popular meeting place.
Tip: The 25hours Hotel beim MuseumsQuartier is one of the coolest design hotels in Vienna! The colorful, hip design of the hotel is definitely unique.
Art History Museum
The Art History Museum is definitely worth a visit in Vienna. Located on the beautiful Maria-Theresien-Platz across from the Natural History Museum, it was opened in 1891 to house the extensive art collections of the imperial family. With nearly 2 million visitors a year, the museum attracts visitors with one of the finest art collections in the world. Here you can see Raphael’s “Madonna in the Green”, Vermeer’s “The Art of Painting” and valuable masterpieces by famous artists such as Velazquez, Rubens, Rembrandt, Dürer, Titian and Tintoretto. Also of great interest are the extensive Egyptian collection and the Art Chamber, where rarities from the former Habsburg treasuries are displayed.
Tip: In any case, don’t miss visiting the beautiful café-restaurant, which is located in a breathtaking setting in the domed hall of the museum.
Burgtheater
The Burgtheater in Vienna is the most prestigious theater in Austria and the largest theater in Europe. Founded some 250 years ago, the Burgtheater was reconstructed between 1948 and 1955 after being severely damaged in the war. Today, it combines tradition, diversity and progress, and a tour of this theater is an insider’s tip for all culture buffs. A one-hour guided tour takes visitors behind the scenes to learn more about the theater’s architecture, art, organization and history. Among the most beautiful attractions are the Burgtheater’s grand staircase with the famous ceiling paintings by Gustav Klimt, Ernst Klimt and Franz Matsch, as well as the collection of sculptures of well-known poets.
Volksgarten
A real gem is the Volksgarten in Vienna, a public park located in Vienna’s 1st district and extending over 5 hectares along the Vienna Ring Road. Opened in 1823, it was the first public park in Vienna. Originally planned as a private garden for archdukes, it was opened to the public at the suggestion of Emperor Franz I’s court garden administration. A special feature is the beautiful rose garden with over 3000 rose bushes and more than 200 varieties of roses. Also worth seeing are the numerous monuments, the Temple of Theseus, the Cortische Coffee House, the Café Meierei and the Milk Pavilion, as well as the magnificent buildings on the Vienna Ring Road surrounding the Volksgarten.
Capuchin Crypt (Imperial Crypt)
The Capuchin Crypt, also known as the Imperial Crypt, is located under the Capuchin Church and a visit is definitely one of the most extraordinary things to do in Vienna. It has been the final resting place of the former Austrian Habsburg dynasty since 1633 and is currently open to the public. You can see the ornate sarcophagi of 149 Habsburgs, including 12 emperors and 19 empresses and queens. One of the most important tombs is the magnificent double sarcophagus containing the remains of Maria Theresa and her husband, Emperor Franz I Stephan of Lorraine. The sarcophagi of “Sisi” Empress Elisabeth and Crown Prince Rudolf are also located in this crypt.
Hundertwasser House
The Hundertwasser House is definitely one of the coolest places to see in Vienna. Designed by Austrian artist Friedensreich Hundertwasser between 1983 and 1985, this residential building has become an architectural highlight in Vienna. The colorful facade and more than 200 trees and shrubs on the balconies are particularly beautiful, creating a green oasis in the middle of the city. The Hundertwasser House is only open to the public from the outside, but you can visit the Hundertwasser Village, a shopping mall across the street, from the inside for free. Just 500 meters away is the Kunst Haus Wien, also designed by Friedensreich Hundertwasser, and well worth a visit.
Vienna’s Shopping Streets
The Graben, Kohlmarkt and Kärntnerstraße are the most exclusive shopping streets in Vienna. These three streets are connected to each other, with Kärntnerstraße extending to the Opera and Graben leading to Kohlmarkt. Walking through the pedestrian zone, you will be amazed by the typical Viennese flair, the noble traditional Viennese shops and the elegant boutiques. Some of the best attractions include the Ankerhaus, St. Stephen’s Cathedral, St. Peter’s Church, the Grabenhof and the Plague Column. A stroll along this shopping mile reveals all these magnificent buildings and sights. Also worth a visit is Mariahilferstrasse, Vienna’s longest and most popular shopping street.
Tip: Some of the best exclusive hotels are located in this area. For those looking for a special place to stay, the beautiful Hotel Topazz Lamee is truly recommended.
St. Charles Church
The majestic St. Charles’s Church towers over Vienna’s Karlsplatz and is considered one of the most beautiful churches in the city. It was designed by Johann Bernhard Fischer von Erlach, an outstanding Baroque architect, and completed in 1739. Emperor Karl VI had it built as a vow during a plague epidemic. The monumental 47-meter-high columns by the entrance portal and the magnificent turquoise-blue dome with frescoes by Johannes Michael Rottmayr are truly impressive. The interior is also a must-see, with a richly decorated high altar and a beautiful marble look. For a fee, you can also visit the viewing terrace, from where you can enjoy a great panorama of the Karlsplatz.
Tip: In winter, a charming Christmas market is held in front of the Church of St. Charles. Check out here some of the best Christmas markets in Vienna.
Naschmarkt
The Naschmarkt is the most famous market in Vienna and offers a wide range of culinary delights from traditional Viennese to international cuisines such as Indian, Vietnamese and Italian, with around 120 market stalls and restaurants. Over the years, the market has become a popular meeting place for locals and tourists alike. In addition to the traditional market stalls, there are some really cool trendy bars where you can enjoy specialties from all over the world in a hip atmosphere, often with a DJ or live music. Another insider tip is the huge Saturday flea market that takes place in the huge parking lot of the Naschmarkt.
Vienna: Excursions, City Tours, Tickets & More
If you don’t want to visit Vienna’s most beautiful sights on your own, you can join a guided tour. GetYourGuide offers city tours, tickets, bike tours, cooking lessons and much more. There are also plenty of reviews to help you choose your favorite tour. A Vienna Pass may also be worth considering, especially if you are staying in the city for several days!
Where to Stay in Vienna
There is a huge range of great accommodation in Vienna. From cheap backpacker hostels to vacation apartments, boutique hotels to luxury hotels, everything is represented. If you’re still looking for recommended places to stay in Vienna, we can give you these tips on where to stay…It’s worth a look!
- Fantastic 5-Star Hotel: The famous Hotel Sacher Wien is a guarantee for a perfect stay in Vienna. Tradition and comfort are perfectly combined.
- 4-Star Boutique Hotel: The Hotel Altstadt Vienna, a boutique hotel with individually designed rooms, perfect breakfasts and afternoon snacks, is really pretty.
- Amazing 3-Star Hotel: The Motel One Wien-Staatsoper is a great choice for an affordable yet stylish stay in the heart of Vienna.
- Charming Apartments: The Zoku Vienna Apartments feature modern furnishings, a casual flair and fantastic views from the roof terrace.
Find the best accomodation in Vienna:
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