20 Best Things to Do in Vienna, From Palace Strolls to Sachertorte

Immerse Yourself in Imperial Splendor

Vienna's imperial past is palpable at every turn. Start your journey by delving into the lives of the Habsburgs:

1. Schönbrunn Palace: Explore the opulent state rooms of this UNESCO World Heritage site, wander through its magnificent gardens, and climb the Gloriette for panoramic city views. Don't miss the Tiergarten Schönbrunn, the world's oldest zoo, located within the palace grounds.

2. Hofburg Palace: The winter residence of the Habsburgs, the Hofburg Palace houses the Imperial Apartments, the Sisi Museum (dedicated to Empress Elisabeth), and the Silver Collection. Witness the Spanish Riding School's Lipizzaner stallions perform their graceful routines.

3. Belvedere Palace: Admire Gustav Klimt's masterpiece, "The Kiss," at the Upper Belvedere Palace, which also houses a collection of Austrian art from the Middle Ages to the present day. Explore the Baroque gardens connecting the Upper and Lower Belvedere Palaces.

Delight in Vienna's Artistic Heritage

Vienna has been home to some of the world's greatest artists and composers. Discover their legacies:

4. Albertina Museum: Explore a vast collection of graphic art, including works by Dürer, Michelangelo, and Picasso. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions featuring modern and contemporary art.

5. Kunsthistorisches Museum (Museum of Art History): Immerse yourself in a world of masterpieces by Raphael, Rembrandt, Vermeer, and Caravaggio. The museum's Egyptian Collection and Collection of Greek and Roman Antiquities are also worth exploring.

6. Leopold Museum: Discover the works of Egon Schiele, Gustav Klimt, and Oskar Kokoschka at this museum dedicated to Austrian art from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The Leopold Museum is located in the MuseumsQuartier, a vibrant cultural complex.

7. State Opera House: Experience the magic of opera at the Wiener Staatsoper, one of the world's most renowned opera houses. Take a guided tour to learn about its history and architecture.

Indulge in Viennese Culinary Delights

Vienna is a foodie paradise, offering a delightful blend of traditional and modern cuisine:

8. Sample Sachertorte: No trip to Vienna is complete without indulging in a slice of Sachertorte, a rich chocolate cake with apricot jam and a dark chocolate glaze. Head to the Hotel Sacher for the original experience, or try other cafes for their own interpretations.

9. Visit a Viennese Coffeehouse: Experience the unique atmosphere of a traditional Viennese coffeehouse, where you can savor coffee, pastries, and light meals. Café Central, Café Hawelka, and Café Landtmann are among the most famous.

10. Explore the Naschmarkt: This vibrant open-air market offers a diverse range of food stalls, restaurants, and shops selling everything from fresh produce to spices to international delicacies. It's a great place to sample Viennese street food and soak up the local atmosphere.

Explore Vienna's Hidden Gems

Beyond the major attractions, Vienna offers a wealth of lesser-known treasures:

11. Hundertwasserhaus: Admire the whimsical architecture of the Hundertwasserhaus, a colorful apartment building designed by Friedensreich Hundertwasser. Its irregular shapes, vibrant colors, and abundance of greenery make it a unique and unforgettable sight.

12. Prater Amusement Park: Ride the Giant Ferris Wheel at the Prater, Vienna's famous amusement park. Enjoy thrilling rides, carnival games, and traditional Viennese entertainment.

13. St. Stephen's Cathedral: Climb the south tower of St. Stephen's Cathedral for panoramic city views. Explore the cathedral's interior, which features intricate Gothic architecture and stunning stained-glass windows.

14. Danube Tower: Enjoy breathtaking views of Vienna and the surrounding countryside from the Danube Tower, the tallest structure in Austria. Dine at the revolving restaurant for a unique culinary experience.

Embrace Vienna's Outdoors

Vienna boasts beautiful parks, gardens, and waterways perfect for outdoor activities:

15. Danube Island: Escape the city bustle on Danube Island, a man-made island in the Danube River. Enjoy swimming, sunbathing, cycling, and water sports.

16. Volksgarten: Stroll through the Volksgarten, a beautiful park featuring a rose garden, a Theseus Temple, and a memorial to Empress Elisabeth.

17. Burggarten: Relax in the Burggarten, a tranquil park located near the Hofburg Palace. Admire the Mozart Monument and visit the Butterfly House.

Delve into Vienna's Unique Experiences

Enhance your Vienna experience with these unique activities:

18. Attend a Classical Music Concert: Immerse yourself in Vienna's musical heritage by attending a classical music concert. The Musikverein, home to the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra, is one of the most prestigious venues.

19. Visit the Central Cemetery: Pay your respects to famous composers such as Beethoven, Brahms, Strauss, and Schubert at the Zentralfriedhof (Central Cemetery). The cemetery is also home to beautiful monuments and sculptures.

20. Take a Danube River Cruise: Enjoy a scenic cruise along the Danube River, offering views of Vienna's skyline, vineyards, and surrounding countryside.

Plan Your Viennese Adventure

To help you organize your trip, here's a quick reference guide:

With its rich history, artistic treasures, and culinary delights, Vienna offers an unforgettable travel experience. Use this guide to create your perfect Viennese adventure and immerse yourself in the charm of this captivating city. Remember to book accommodations and tours in advance, especially during peak season. Enjoy your trip to Vienna!