What to do in Vienna?

Vienna, the Austrian capital, is a city filled with history, culture, and elegance. With its iconic monuments, world-renowned museums, and delicious cuisine, Vienna offers a unique experience for travelers. Here, you will find yourself in the heart of an open-air museum where you will be constantly surprised ✨ In this article, discover my top 27 things to do in Vienna and let yourself be guided through various activities and must-see places to visit in this amazing city!

The concert hall at the Musikverein is the prime location for classical music enthusiasts. This hall, inaugurated in 1870, is world-renowned for its exceptional acoustics. Attend a Mozart concert in the Golden Hall and enjoy a gourmet dinner for a magical evening To participate, you only need to budget around €59 per person.

If this place is so famous and symbolizes the Austrian capital, it's thanks to the Vienna New Year's Concert , broadcast worldwide. Every year, countless people try to obtain a ticket through a lottery, so there are very few lucky ones. To get access, visit the official Musikverein site. This year, as always, the famous New Year's concert by the Wiener Philharmoniker takes place on December 30 and 31, as well as from 11 AM to 1 PM on the first day of the year 2025.

The Belvedere Palace, built in the 18th century by the famous architect Johann Lukas von Hildebrandt, is an architectural masterpiece housing a permanent collection of exceptional Austrian art, including the most famous works of Klimt.

The ticket for the Upper Belvedere and its temporary exhibitions costs about €18, while the ticket for the Lower Belvedere and its exhibitions is around €15 per person. It's up to you to choose or do both depending on how significant you consider this cultural and iconic place in Vienna.

The palace consists of two buildings that you can visit separately, the Upper Belvedere and the Lower Belvedere, connected by French gardens. This means you will need two different tickets if you want to visit the entire site

Designated a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1996, Schönbrunn Palace is one of Vienna's most precious treasures. It was built in the early 17th century at the request of Empress Maria Theresa and is often compared to the Palace of Versailles in France due to its grandeur and beauty

The palace is also known for being the place where the young Mozart performed a concert in 1762 at the age of six in front of Empress Maria Theresa. Schönbrunn Palace was also the residence of Sisi the Empress, a historical figure portrayed by Romy Schneider in cinema and who is part of the must-see films in my opinion

Today, it is possible to visit both the palace and the gardens in which you will even find a zoo. To immerse yourself in the lifestyle of the time, you can choose between a guided tour with fast-track access for €54 per person to discover the fascinating history of Schönbrunn or experience something original by taking a romantic horse-drawn carriage ride through the gardens

The Hofburg, another imperial residence, is an immense palace complex that was the seat of power for the Habsburgs for over six centuries

You will be able to see the Imperial Treasury of the Hofburg, where jewels, crowns, and precious objects that testify to the splendor of the Austrian Empire are kept. You will explore its vast, richly decorated rooms and fascinating exhibitions, including the Sisi Museum dedicated to Empress Elisabeth of Austria. You can also visit the palace where the imperial treasury and museum are located during a 2-hour guided tour of the Hofburg. The price is set at €48 per person

For a unique experience, attend a classical music concert in the Hofburg's ballroom, where the works of Mozart, Beethoven, and Strauss still resonate today

For a panoramic view of Vienna, head to the Danube Tower. This impressive structure stands 252 meters tall and offers a panoramic view of the city and the Danube. Built in 1964, it has become one of the modern symbols of Vienna.

In addition to the viewpoint offered by the Danube Tower, there are also spaces to relax and dine. On the first floor, you will find a café ☕️, the perfect spot to enjoy a cup of Viennese coffee and Viennese specialties, but I will talk about that a bit later in the guide For an even more memorable experience, head to the second floor where a restaurant offers a beautiful menu in an elegant atmosphere.

To gain priority access to the top, there is a fast-track ticket for the Danube Tower costing €18 per person. However, you will have to pay an additional fee if you wish to enter the Tower Cafe

After climbing the Danube Tower, taking a cruise on the Danube is a natural next step as it is a must-do activity when visiting Vienna. The Danube, the second longest river in Europe, majestically flows through the city.

Onboard a comfortable boat ️, you can relax and enjoy the iconic monuments as well as the green hills that surround it.

You can enjoy a daytime cruise or a night cruise with buffet and Viennese songs when the city lights up. Embark on your journey through Vienna with Wiener Lied Musik! Beverages are not included in the €59 cruise fare, but it includes a buffet of local dishes

Visiting downtown Vienna is like taking a leap back in time. With its cobblestone streets and Baroque-style buildings, the downtown area reveals centuries of history and artistic influence. Strolling through the alleys and admiring the Baroque architecture that Vienna is famous for is an essential activity not to be missed during your stay in Vienna.

Every corner seems to tell a story, recalling the era of the Habsburgs and the golden age of classical music. You can of course take this walk by yourself, but you can also join a guided tour of downtown and the city highlights to not miss anything and learn more about the history of Vienna This tour will cost you €22 per person! It's the best way to discover all the nooks and secrets of the city, plus, the guides love to give you tips for the rest of your stay

Explore the city easily and at your own pace with a Hop-on Hop-off bus tour in Vienna. This is a practical and economical way to quickly discover all the iconic and must-see locations. If you aren't keen on walking, this option will be a great alternative!

You can hop on these double-decker buses at any stop and get off at your pace to explore the attractions that interest you most. With audio commentary available in multiple languages, you will learn more about the rich history and culture of Vienna while admiring its historic streets and majestic monuments.

Tourist bus tickets are valid for 1 to 3 days and start at €37 per person

If you are staying in Vienna with family or don't particularly enjoy culture and art, there is a museum made for you: the Museum of Illusions. Be ready for your senses to be challenged in the vortex tunnel or the anti-gravity room, where 3D objects will suddenly appear, and it will be up to you to avoid falling into the various traps this visit has in store for you

The ticket to visit the Museum of Illusions costs €15 for adults and €11 for children, and students will benefit from a €2 discount, making the ticket €13!

The Albertina Museum is one of the largest collections of graphic drawings and prints in the world. Founded in 1801, the collection includes works by great masters such as Monet, Degas, Gontcharova, Chagall, and many other artists. The fascinating history of the Albertina collection goes back to Archduke Albert of Saxony-Teschen, who acquired an impressive collection of prints and watercolors during his travels in Europe

This is undoubtedly the museum that attracts the most tourists each year, which is why I recommend booking an e-ticket for the Albertina Museum as early as possible if you plan to visit this museum in the city of Vienna! The online ticket costs around €20.

The Vienna Museum of Art History, also known as Kunsthistorischesmuseum, houses one of the largest and most important art collections in the world. You will find masterpieces from the Renaissance, Egyptian art, Greek and Roman art, as well as works by great masters such as Klimt, Titian, and Rembrandt. It's a bit like the Louvre or the MET, but in its Austrian version

The museum is located in a magnificent building mimicking Italian Renaissance style and offers a stunning view of the Ring, the famous circular boulevard of Vienna. To visit, it's better to buy a ticket in advance in case of high attendance. The ticket to the KHM costs €21 for adults and €18 for students with proof of status.

Psychology enthusiasts will appreciate a visit to the Sigmund Freud Museum. Freud's apartment, where he lived and worked for 47 years, has become a museum that retraces his life and contributions to psychoanalysis. You can explore his collection of personal objects, manuscripts, and historical photographs. Expect to pay €15 for this museum

This is an unusual museum, but if you visit the city during the winter period, this museum is perfect for enjoying some quality time indoors!

The House of Music (Haus der Musik) Museum is an interactive attraction that offers an immersive experience of the musical world. You can discover the history of Austrian music, try out instruments, compose your own music, and even conduct a virtual orchestra. It's an ideal place for visitors of all ages, from music lovers to families.

I highly recommend visiting Stadtpark, one of the oldest parks in Vienna, inaugurated in 1862. This park is a peaceful haven in the heart of the city, where you can stroll among the statues of famous composers such as Johann Strauss II, nicknamed the 'Waltz King.'

Within the park, you will discover the Kursalon, a beautiful building in neoclassical style that was home to famous concerts in the 19th century. Today, it hosts classical music concerts and cultural events throughout the year. It's an ideal place to listen to music by Strauss and other Viennese composers

A walk in this park allows you to immerse yourself in the Viennese atmosphere while being close to many prominent locations in Vienna

After all these cultural visits, if you need some fresh air, you must spend some time in the largest green space in the city: Prater Park! Whether for a picnic , enjoying rides at the amusement park , or simply strolling, you will surely find what you are looking for

It is not without reason that this place is mentioned in many works of Austrian literature; indeed, Prater is an ideal spot to recharge in the middle of the city and find inspiration.

A little off from the city center, in the district of Leopoldstadt, it is situated between the Danube and the Danube Canal and is very easily accessible thanks to the Vienna metro

The Giant Ferris Wheel of Vienna , called Wiener Riesenrad by locals, is a true icon of the city and a must-see attraction during your stay. It majestically stands in the heart of the Prater amusement park that I just mentioned and is a true witness to the city's history.

Erected in 1897 to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Emperor Franz Joseph I's reign, this landmark Ferris wheel offers breathtaking views of the city and the river, perched 65 meters high. It has also appeared in some cult films such as License to Kill, a James Bond film starring Timothy Dalton, or The Third Man directed by Orson Welles. To take a ride on the Vienna Giant Ferris Wheel, expect to pay €14 per person

The Spanish Riding School of Vienna is an institution over 450 years old, founded in 1572 by Maximilian II. It is famous for its lipizzan horse dressage shows, a noble breed originating from Spain, where you can attend performances starting at €41 per person

These horses have been bred and trained here for centuries, and if you want to explore this place further, I suggest booking a guided tour of the Spanish Riding School well in advance, as tickets for these tours are highly sought after. They cost around €23 per person.

The Vienna State Opera, or Wiener Staatsoper in German, is one of the most prestigious musical institutions in the world. Inaugurated in 1869, this opera house has a rich history and has been the site of many world premieres of famous opera works.

Among the composers whose works have been played here is none other than Mozart! You will notice that Austria has seen many world-renowned classical musicians grow, in addition to Mozart, such as Strauss, whom we have already mentioned, or Schubert

If you wish to attend a performance, you can visit the official opera website to check the schedule and book your tickets, but don't waste any time, as tickets sell out fast...

St. Charles's Church, often called Karlskirche, is a Baroque church built in the early 18th century. Dedicated to St. Charles Borromeo, a bishop who aided the sick

It is also known for its concerts, including The Four Seasons, a famous opus by Vivaldi that tourists love. By the way, if you want to attend this concert at Karlskirche, it's best to book in advance since demand is very high throughout the year, plus the ticket is very affordable, €33 per person, ensuring you leave with unforgettable memories

If you are not into classical music, you can also freely visit St. Charles's Church to admire the magnificent fresco of the dome, depicting scenes from the life of St. Charles Borromeo

St. Peter's Church, also known as Peterskirche, is a Baroque church located in the heart of Vienna. It was built in the 18th century and is known for its impressive dome and richly decorated altar. Entry is also free.

The church is also renowned for the classical music concerts by the Classic Ensemble Vienna, which attract music lovers from around the globe. This time, the musical pieces are quite varied, with Mozart, Beethoven, Bach, and many other musicians being played regularly at Peterskirche.

The Secession Palace, built in 1897 in the Art Nouveau style, is an architectural and artistic marvel. It is famous for its Beethoven frieze, designed by Gustav Klimt, one of Austria's greatest artists. The building today houses contemporary art exhibitions and is a must-visit for modern art enthusiasts

The Central Cemetery of Vienna is one of the most famous cemeteries in the world, where many historical, artistic, and musical figures rest, including Ludwig Van Beethoven, Johann Strauss II, and Johannes Brahms.

At first glance, visiting this cemetery, like any cemetery, may not sound appealing, yet it is an unmissable place, somewhat like Père-Lachaise in Paris. However, it is better to know some names from Austrian literature and music; otherwise, you might not have the best time

The Naschmarkt is Vienna's largest outdoor market, a must-visit for food and local product enthusiasts. You will find an amazing variety of stalls offering fresh produce, exotic spices, artisanal cheeses, and Austrian specialties

Take the time to taste local Austrian dishes like Käsekrainer, a cheese sausage, and Kaiserschmarrn, a delicious dessert. A special mention for my two favorite dishes: Käsespätzle (not specifically Viennese, but a specialty from Tyrol) and Germknödel

Don't miss the chance to try a Viennese coffee in traditional cafes like Café Central, which was frequented by famous writers like Sigmund Freud and Leon Trotsky. To help you out, you can certainly join a culinary tour at Naschmarkt with a local guide who will advise you on the best places to go This costs about €116 per person.

Besides the Naschmarkt, don't leave Vienna without having tasted the specialties typical of the city. Try the Wiener schnitzel, a breaded veal cutlet, and the sachertorte, a chocolate cake at Café Sacher

Few people know that Vienna has its own vineyards right in the city center. Explore the Weinviertel region dotted with vineyards that have been producing wine for centuries. You can visit the vineyards, taste Austrian wines, and enjoy exceptional views of the city for €120 per person

Founded in 1368, the Austrian National Library will delight not only book lovers but also those who appreciate beautiful monuments. There are over 200,000 volumes and about 8,000 handwritten works housed there, just that!

And if that isn't enough to convince you, know that it also hosts the most important collection of terrestrial globes in the world (on the 3rd floor of the building). Admission is €10 for adults and €7.50 for students. You also have different pricing options depending on what you choose to see (there is also a literature museum, a papyrus museum, and even an Esperanto museum).

And to conclude my top 27 things to do in Vienna, here is an activity that everyone will enjoy, and which is perfect if you're visiting with family! The Schönbrunn Zoo

Explore Schönbrunn Zoo, which is the oldest zoo in the world and has been named the best zoo in Europe five times in a row! It is also a UNESCO World Heritage site and houses the imperial summer residence of Schönbrunn Palace at its center. Here, you can discover 700 species ranging from anteaters to zebras, Siberian tigers, or even giant pandas! The online fast-track entry is €27 for adults and about €16 for children.

If you're wondering where the best places to stay in Vienna are, I have a dedicated article on the topic, but in the meantime, here's a little selection

The Viktoria Schönbrunn Hotel located just a few minutes' walk from the Schönbrunn Palace and the zoo offers rooms decorated in a personalized style starting at €90 per night! There is parking nearby as well

The Austria Wien Hotel is also situated just a short walk away from the main sites of the historic center, such as St. Stephen's Cathedral. A private parking is available, and a wonderful breakfast is included for around €150 per night!

Finally, the Post Wien Hotel offers rooms starting at €116 including breakfast! You will be located just a 10-minute walk from the imperial Hofburg Palace

The best time to visit Vienna will depend on you! In reality, there isn't a best season for Vienna; it will depend on your preferences and what you want to do If you want to come mainly to enjoy the parks, I would suggest spring to see lush parks and endless flowers If it's the charm of autumn that attracts you, and the cold doesn't scare you, Vienna has a lot of charm during that time Also, note that between December and April, you can ski around Vienna ⛷️

As for temperatures, they are around 3°C in winter compared to 26°C during summer!

The months with the most tourists are January, February, July, and August! If you want to avoid the crowds, these are the months to skip

From the U.S., several options are available for getting to Vienna, depending on your preferences in terms of comfort, budget, ecology, and your departure point! Here are the different ways to reach Vienna:

✈️ By plane: the simplest and fastest option is of course by plane! From New York, you'll take about 8 hours, and prices start around $115 round trip! You can check prices directly via a flight comparison website like Ulysse to find the best deals. If you're flexible with dates and times, it's even better for you!

By bus: if you'd prefer to take the train to reduce your carbon footprint, you can take a train from your departure city to Vienna. The time and price will depend on where you're departing from. If you're in the Eastern U.S., you might find round trip bus trips for about $70 and around 11 hours on the road.

By car: if you want your own vehicle on-site to get around or plan a little road trip in the area, you can also drive to Vienna. By the way, if that's the case, you can check out my dedicated article on what to do in Austria If you don't have a personal vehicle, you can also rent one starting from your departure point or even directly in Vienna if you wish. For that, I suggest checking prices on DiscoverCars, which will allow you to compare and find the best rates

Vienna is thus a city rich in history, culture, and culinary delights. With this guide, you should have all the keys in hand to know what to do in Vienna, but if you still do not know where to sleep in Vienna, you can also consult my dedicated guide