Welcome to Vienna, the city of music, art, and culture! With its beautiful architecture, unique attractions, and vibrant atmosphere, Vienna has something for everyone.
From exploring the imperial palaces and grand churches to indulging in delicious Viennese cuisine or enjoying a night out in one of many bars and clubs – there is no shortage of things to do in Vienna.
This article will provide 10 of the best things you can do while visiting the city, so you can make the most out of your trip and have a truly memorable experience. So without further ado, here’s our list of 10 great activities for exploring Vienna:
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1. Take a tour of Schönbrunn Palace
Step back in time and explore one of the most important cultural monuments in Austria. This magnificent palace, built between 1696 and 1712, was the former imperial residence of the Habsburgs. Its Baroque architecture and opulent gardens make it a must-see destination for any visitor to Vienna.
Schönbrunn Palace is one of Vienna’s most iconic sites and a must-see for anyone visiting the city. Dating back to 1569, this stunning baroque palace was once the summer residence of Empress Maria Theresa.
Today it still stands as a symbol of great Viennese history and culture, with many areas open to the public. Take a tour of the palace and explore its grand halls, learn about its history from knowledgeable guides, and marvel at the beautiful park grounds that surround it.
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2. Enjoy a night out at Prater Amusement Park
Located in Vienna’s Leopoldstadt district, this iconic amusement park has been delighting visitors since it opened in 1766. Take a ride on the legendary Giant Ferris Wheel and marvel at the views of the city from above, then enjoy an evening of music, games, and rides at one of the many attractions.
Prater is a large public park with plenty of amusements, including the giant Ferris wheel, which offers amazing views of Vienna.
It’s a great place to take the kids for some good old-fashioned fun, with numerous rides and games from traditional carousels to modern roller coasters. The Prater also has food stalls, bars, and restaurants to keep you entertained.
It is a great place to spend the day with the family. Don’t forget to try a famous Prater sausage.
Other attractions in the park include an outdoor theater, playgrounds, sports facilities, and more. The surrounding area also has plenty of shops and cafes for when it’s time for some shopping or refreshments.
Prater is a great spot to take in the beauty of Vienna and enjoy some good old-fashioned fun.
3. Visit the Vienna State Opera House
Built-in 1869, this stunning building is considered to be one of the world’s greatest opera houses and it regularly hosts performances by some of the most famous classical music composers such as Mozart, Strauss, and Wagner. Take a guided tour or attend a live performance and make sure you don’t miss out on this musical experience.
Built between 1867 and 1869, the opera house has a rich history as well as an impressive design. The building itself is Renaissance Revival in style, featuring elaborate decorations and sculptures that celebrate Austro-Italian culture. Inside the theater, you can see the original frescos painted by the famous Gustav Klimt, as well as enjoy some of the best opera performances in Europe.
Whether you’re looking for a night of culture or simply want to take in the sights and sounds of Vienna, a visit to the Vienna State Opera House is one of 10 must-see experiences in Austria.
4. Explore Vienna’s history at Hofburg Palace
This former imperial palace was the home of the Habsburg dynasty, which ruled Austria for over 600 years. Take a tour of the palace to explore its many galleries, museums, and courtyards. Don’t miss the chance to see the Imperial Treasury, which houses a stunning collection of jewelry and crowns from the Habsburg era.
This palace is a fairytale-like structure that has been standing since 1275 and once served as the imperial residence of the Habsburg family.
Visitors can explore multiple sections of the palace, including the Imperial Apartments, the Silver Collection, and the Sisi Museum, which houses artifacts from Empress Elisabeth (Sisi) of Austria.
The palace is also home to the Vienna Boys’ Choir and the Spanish Riding School, located in its stables. Walking through Hofburg Palace is like taking a journey back in time—it’s definitely a must-see for anyone visiting Vienna.
5. Take a Walking Tour of the City
Vienna is an incredibly walkable city with plenty of attractions to explore on foot. Take a guided or self-guided tour to get an up-close look at the city’s famous monuments and churches. Get lost in the narrow alleys of Vienna’s old town and discover hidden gems along the way.
6. Go shopping at Mariahilfer Strasse
This six-kilometer shopping street is considered to be one of the most fashionable in Europe. There are hundreds of stores offering everything from designer clothing to jewelry and souvenirs, so you’re sure to find something that suits your tastes.
It is a popular shopping street with a unique atmosphere, elegant boutiques, and fascinating specialty stores. The area is known for its chic fashion outlets, trendy cafes, and restaurants, as well as international brand-name stores such as H&M, Zara, and Adidas.
You can find all sorts of souvenirs here to take back home with you as a memento of your stay in Vienna. If shopping isn’t your thing, there are also plenty of other attractions nearby – the famous Mariahilfer Street Fountain is one to look out for! There’s never a dull moment on this bustling street so it’s definitely one of the 10 best things to do in Vienna Austria.
7. Visit St. Stephen’s Cathedral
This 12th-century church is one of Vienna’s most iconic landmarks and it stands proudly in the city center. It’s a great place to marvel at the stunning architecture and get a feel for Vienna’s unique culture.
Located in the heart of the city, this iconic Roman Catholic Cathedral has been a symbol of Vienna since the 12th century.
It stands tall as an impressive architectural masterpiece, with its decorated Gothic spire reaching up to 137 meters high. Visitors can explore the awe-inspiring interior, see ancient paintings and artifacts, or climb the 343 steps to get breathtaking views of Vienna.
It has also been featured in several movies including The Third Man and Before Sunrise. St Stephen’s Cathedral is an absolute must-see when visiting Vienna.
8. Indulge in Viennese Cuisine
Vienna is known for its delicious pastries, cakes, schnitzels, and sausages. Sample some of these local delicacies and discover a unique culinary experience.
Viennese cuisine is a delight to all of the senses. You can find dishes that date back centuries, like the classic Wiener Schnitzel.
This tender veal cutlet dish is often served with lemon and potato salad. Or try another traditional dish such as Schneewaltzer, which consists of fluffy pancakes filled with apricot jam and topped with whipped cream.
For those who prefer a heartier meal, Vienna has plenty of restaurants serving traditional Austrian fare like goulash or Sachertorte, the famous chocolate cake. So be sure to sample some Viennese specialties while you’re visiting.
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9. Sample Some of Vienna’s Best Wines
From crisp white wines to full-bodied reds, there is a variety of different wines to be enjoyed in Vienna. Take a wine tour or visit one of the many wine bars throughout the city to sample some of the best vintages.
Vienna is home to some of the best wines in Europe, from crisp Grüner Veltliner to smooth Zweigelt. With an impressive variety of reds and whites produced by local wineries, there’s something for every taste.
A great way to experience Vienna’s wine culture is to book a guided tour of the city’s vineyards and wineries. You’ll learn about Vienna’s wine-making history, as well as taste some of the finest wines available in town. And don’t forget to pick up a few bottles to take home with you.
10. Enjoy a Night Out
When you’re done exploring Vienna’s amazing offerings of wines, be sure to check out some of the city’s world-class restaurants. Vienna is a culinary paradise, offering everything from classic Viennese cuisine to international fare.
Vienna’s nightlife is second to none, with plenty of bars and clubs offering live music, DJ sets, and more. Whether you’re looking for a low-key evening or something more lively, there’s something in Vienna to suit all tastes.
Additional Places You Can Go To
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Visit the Museums
Vienna’s unique culture can also be explored by visiting one of the city’s many museums. The Kunsthistorisches Museum and Albertina are two of the 10 best attractions in Vienna and offer a great insight into the history and artistry of the country.
Visitors can explore collections from around the world as well as see the works of some of Austria’s most renowned artists, such as Gustav Klimt and Egon Schiele. Whether you’re a fan of art or just want to explore Vienna’s history, these museums are must-visit destinations in the 10 best things to do in Vienna.
Thoughts and Conclusion
No matter what kind of activities you decide to do, Vienna is sure to be a memorable experience. From its stunning architecture and cultural sites to its delicious food and vibrant nightlife – the 10 best things to do in Vienna are guaranteed to make your trip an unforgettable one.
Also, check out How to Travel in Europe on a Budget if you’re ever tight on travel budgets. Also, check out Best Places to Travel in December.
