Vienna, Austria’s capital, is a city that perfectly marries imperial grandeur with a lively modern vibe. Known for its legendary music heritage, jaw-dropping architecture, and a food scene that’s equal parts traditional and indulgent, Vienna offers something for every kind of traveler.
Although you will want to have coffee and cake all day long (and you could with the amount of fabulous places there are!), you would miss out on all the other experiences that make it one of the most fantastic cities in Europe, if not the world!
Stroll Through the Historic City Center
Vienna’s city center is an absolute dream for history buffs, with its maze of cobbled streets, majestic squares, and baroque churches and palaces. Start at Stephansplatz, where you’ll can’t miss the incredible St. Stephen’s Cathedral—the heart of the city.
From there, wander along Graben, a grand street lined with elegant shops and historic buildings, before heading toward the Hofbrg Palace, once the seat of the Habsburg monarchy.
Tour the Hofburg Palace and the Imperial Apartments
The Hofburg Palace is the heart of Vienna’s imperial past, and no visit to the city would be complete without stepping inside this royal complex. The Hofburg was once home to the Habsburg dynasty, and today it houses several museums, the Spanish Riding School, and the Austrian National Library. Explore the Imperial Apartments to get a glimpse of the rooms where Empress Sisi and Emperor Franz Joseph lived and learn about the history of the Habsburgs.
Take a tour and skip the line!
Enjoy Coffee and Cake at a Traditional Viennese Café
Vienna’s coffee culture is an integral part of the city’s identity, earning a spot on UNESCO’s list of Intangible Cultural Heritage. Dating back to the 17th century, Viennese coffee houses have evolved into much more than places to take an eiscaffee—they are bastions of art, literature, and social life.
Iconic coffee houses like Café Central and Demelare steeped in history, having hosted luminaries such as Sigmund Freud, Gustav Klimt, and Leon Trotsky. Café Central, for example, is celebrated for its grandiose interiors and association with intellectuals, while Demel is revered for its opulent desserts and imperial ties to the Habsburg court. Each coffee house has its own character and charm, offering a window into Vienna’s rich cultural tapestry.
Explore the Belvedere Palace, Gardens and Museum
For art lovers, the Belvedere Palace is a must. This baroque masterpiece is home to one of the world’s most impressive collections of Austrian art, including Gustav Klimt’s iconic The Kiss, as well as other works by artists like Egon Schiele and Oskar Kokoschka. The ornate rooms and the surrounding gardens make this an experience that’s as much about the setting as it is about the art.
But it’s not just about the art—this palace is an architectural marvel in its own right. The combination of grand baroque design and the elegant gardens that stretch out before it gives the Belvedere a timeless, majestic feel. Whether you’re wandering through the galleries or just enjoying the gardens, the Belvedere is one of the city’s most enchanting spots.
Enjoy an Evening at the Vienna State Opera
Vienna is synonymous with classical music, and there’s no better place to experience this than the Vienna State Opera. This world-renowned institution has been the stage for some of the most iconic performances in history, and a night at the opera here is nothing short of magical. Whether you’re an opera aficionado or a first-timer, the grandiose setting of the State Opera will leave you mesmerized by both the music and the architecture.
Even if you’re not able to snag tickets for a performance, don’t worry. You can take a tour of the opera house to learn about its storied history and get a peek behind the scenes.
Discover Secessionist Architecture
Vienna’s Secessionist movement is a fascinating chapter in its artistic history, and the city is home to some of the most remarkable buildings from this era. One of the standouts is the Secession Building itself—an eye-catching structure with a distinctive golden dome that houses a collection of works by artists like Gustav Klimt and Egon Schiele. If you’re a fan of art nouveau, the Secession Building is an absolute must-see, with its bold, avant-garde design that revolutionized Vienna’s architecture scene.
For a deeper dive, consider taking a guided tour of Vienna’s Secessionist buildings, which will lead you through the city’s artistic transformation in the late 19th century. Along the way, you’ll learn about the cultural impact of these groundbreaking designs and see some of the city’s most celebrated works of art.
Savor Viennese Cuisine
Vienna’s culinary scene is not just coffee and cake! Traditional dishes like Tafelspitz (boiled beef) and Wiener Schnitzel, often rooted in Austrian and Central European heritage, are served alongside globally inspired creations, making the city a vibrant dining destination.
One of the city’s most treasured dining spots is Griechenbeisl, Vienna’s oldest restaurant, established in 1447. Right above Stephansplatz and in a tiny corner of a small square sits the place that fed Beethoven, Mozart, and Mark Twain. Griechenbeisl exudes timeless charm with its rustic wooden interiors, vaulted ceilings, and walls adorned with signatures of famous guests. Also don’t miss the Naschmarkt – home to over 100 food stalls and restaurants, offering everything from fresh produce to international delicacies.
Attend The Light of Creation show at Vienna’s iconic Votive Church (Votivkirche)
The Light of Creation show at Vienna’s Votive Church is a breathtaking fusion of art and technology, offering a multisensory journey that brings the grandeur of creation to life. Set within the neo-Gothic splendor of the church, the show uses state-of-the-art projection mapping and ethereal music to transform the sacred space into a living canvas of light and color.
This extraordinary interplay of light and sound creates an almost otherworldly atmosphere, inviting visitors to reflect on the beauty of existence and the mysteries of creation.
Visit the Albertina Museum
The Albertina Museum is a also a must-visit for any art lover exploring Vienna. Housed in a grand palace, the museum is home to one of the most impressive collections of graphic art in the world, including works by Dürer, Klimt, and Picasso. The extensive collection of prints, drawings, and paintings spans centuries and offers a fascinating glimpse into the development of European art. You’ll also find rotating exhibitions that feature modern art, so there’s always something new to discover.
Apart from the art, the Albertina itself is a treat to explore, with its beautiful architectural design and location right in the heart of Vienna. After your museum visit, take a moment to enjoy the breathtaking views of the city from the museum’s terrace, which overlooks the Hofburg Palace and the stunning Burggarten.
Visit the Schönbrunn Palace
Schönbrunn Palace, Vienna’s version of Versailles, is one of the city’s top attractions. The palace, once the summer residence of the Habsburg emperors, is simply stunning, with its beautiful gardens and ornate rooms. Take a guided tour through the rooms once lived in by Empress Maria Theresa, and wander through the vast gardens that seem to go on forever. You’ll even find the world’s oldest zoo within the grounds—a perfect mix of royalty and animal charm.
The gardens themselves are something to behold, and they’re often quieter than the palace interior. Whether you opt to stroll through the lush green spaces or hike up to the Gloriette for panoramic views of Vienna, this site will leave you in awe.
Experience the Christmas markets
Vienna transforms into a winter wonderland during the holiday season, with its many Christmas markets adding a magical charm to the city. From mid-November through December, over 20 markets spring up across Vienna, offering festive cheer, handcrafted gifts, and traditional Austrian treats. The Vienna Christmas World at Rathausplatz, the city’s largest market, enchants visitors with its illuminated trees, ice skating trails, and cozy stalls serving mulled wine and roasted chestnuts.
Unmissable are the Art Advent in Karlsplatz and the romantic Christmas Village at Belvedere Palace. Whether you’re shopping for festive ornaments or savoring a wurst with a gluhwein chaser, Vienna’s Christmas markets capture the essence of the holiday spirit in every corner.
Stay in One of Vienna’s Top Hotels
Vienna is home to some of the world’s most luxurious hotels, and staying in one of them will elevate your experience in the city. The Hotel Sacher Vienna is a prime example—this iconic hotel has been welcoming guests for over 140 years and offers a blend of tradition and modern luxury. With its prime location and stunning interiors, it’s the perfect place to base yourself for a sophisticated stay in Vienna.
Another standout is the Hotel Imperial, a former palace that now offers unparalleled elegance and service. Whether you choose the Sacher or the Imperial, both hotels offer a glimpse into Vienna’s regal past while providing all the modern comforts you could ask for. A stay in one of these hotels is more than just a place to rest—it’s an experience in itself.
Find Vienna’s wonderful hotels here
Vienna is a city that truly has it all: timeless elegance, cultural depth, and culinary delights. Whether you’re soaking up its imperial past, enjoying its buzzing café culture, or getting lost in its art and music, Vienna will sweep you off your feet. Pack your bags—you’re in for an unforgettable adventure.