Vienna 2 weeks

The former imperial palace of the Habsburg dynasty, this vast complex houses several museums, the Imperial Apartments, the Sisi Museum, and the Imperial Silver Collection. Explore the opulent state rooms and learn about the lives of emperors and empresses.

• Consider purchasing a combination ticket if you plan to visit multiple Hofburg attractions.
• Allow ample time to explore the extensive grounds and courtyards.

A legendary Viennese coffee house once frequented by intellectuals and artists like Sigmund Freud and Leo Trotsky. Enjoy traditional Viennese coffee specialties and pastries in its stunning Neo-Renaissance interior.

• Expect a queue, especially during peak hours.
• Try their famous 'Kaiserschmarrn' (shredded pancake).

Vienna's most iconic religious building, a Gothic masterpiece dominating the city skyline. Climb the South Tower for panoramic views or explore the catacombs beneath.

• The South Tower climb involves many steps but offers incredible views.
• Book tickets for guided tours of the catacombs in advance.

Famous for its enormous, paper-thin Wiener Schnitzel, this traditional Viennese restaurant has been serving classic dishes for over a century. It's a must-visit for authentic Austrian cuisine.

• Reservations are essential, often weeks in advance, especially for the Wollzeile location.
• The schnitzel is large enough to share.

One of the world's most important art museums, housing an immense collection of Old Masters, Egyptian antiquities, and Greek and Roman artifacts. Its architecture is as impressive as its contents.

• Focus on specific collections to avoid feeling overwhelmed.
• The museum café is a beautiful spot for a break.

Vienna's most popular market, offering a vibrant array of international foods, spices, fresh produce, and small eateries. It's a lively place to sample local and global flavors.

• Great for lunch with diverse food stalls.
• Visit on a Saturday for the flea market that takes place at one end.

A groundbreaking Art Nouveau building designed by Joseph Maria Olbrich, symbolizing a break from historicism. It is famous for Gustav Klimt's Beethoven Frieze.

• The 'golden dome' is an iconic photo opportunity.
• Check for temporary exhibitions, as the building also hosts contemporary art.

A stylish restaurant and bar located directly on the Danube Canal, offering modern Austrian cuisine with a focus on fresh ingredients. Enjoy a sophisticated atmosphere with canal views.

• Ideal for a romantic dinner with a view.
• The bar area is great for pre- or post-dinner drinks.

The magnificent former summer residence of the Habsburg emperors, this UNESCO World Heritage site features stunning Baroque architecture, opulent interiors, and vast gardens. Explore the palace rooms and the Gloriette for imperial insights.

• Book tickets online in advance to skip the lines.
• Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the extensive gardens, including the Privy Garden and the Orangery.

Located within the Schönbrunn Palace gardens, this beautiful Art Nouveau palm house offers a serene setting for lunch or coffee amidst exotic plants. Enjoy light meals and pastries.

• A peaceful escape after touring the palace.
• Great spot for photos with the greenhouse architecture.

The world's oldest zoo, located within the Schönbrunn Palace grounds. It's home to a diverse range of animals, including pandas and polar bears, in beautifully designed enclosures.

• Check feeding times for special animal encounters.
• The zoo is spread out, so pace yourself.

This stunning Baroque palace complex comprises the Upper and Lower Belvedere, housing an impressive collection of Austrian art, most notably Gustav Klimt's 'The Kiss'. The gardens are also spectacular.

• Focus on the Upper Belvedere for the main collection.
• The view of the city from the Belvedere terraces is superb.

A classic Viennese coffee house with a rich history, known for its elegant atmosphere and traditional cakes and coffee. It's a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.

• Try their Apfelstrudel (apple strudel).
• A good place to relax and people-watch.

One of Vienna's most recognizable landmarks, this historic Ferris wheel offers fantastic panoramic views of the city from its cabins. It's a classic Viennese experience.

• Best experienced on a clear day for optimal views.
• Consider booking a private cabin for a more intimate experience.

A famous beer garden in the Prater, renowned for its 'Stelze' (crispy pork knuckle) and lively atmosphere. It's a quintessential Viennese outdoor dining experience.

• Open seasonally (typically March to October).
• It's a very casual and bustling place; perfect for a fun night out.

Vienna's main city museum, recently reopened after extensive renovation, offering comprehensive insights into the city's history, art, and culture from prehistory to the present. Admission to the permanent collection is free.

• Admission to the permanent collection is free.
• Check for special exhibitions which are ticketed.

A classic Viennese coffee house located near the Albertina museum, offering a traditional ambiance and a wide selection of cakes and pastries. It's a perfect spot to recharge.

• Enjoy their Sachertorte or a traditional Viennese coffee.
• A good location for a mid-afternoon break.

One of Vienna's most visited museums, housing an extensive collection of graphic arts, photography, and architectural drawings, as well as impressive Old Master paintings. Its former imperial apartments are also noteworthy.

• The graphic art collections are among the largest in the world.
• Don't miss the staterooms, which are beautifully preserved.

Renowned for its Tafelspitz (boiled beef), a classic Viennese dish, this elegant restaurant offers a refined dining experience. It's considered one of the best places to try this traditional specialty.

• Reservations are highly recommended.
• The Tafelspitz is served with a variety of accompaniments.

An interactive museum dedicated to sound and music, offering a fun and engaging experience for all ages. Explore the history of Viennese music and try your hand at conducting.

• Great for families and music enthusiasts.
• The virtual conducting experience is a highlight.

A historic imperial court confectioner, Demel is a luxurious pastry shop and café famous for its exquisite cakes, chocolates, and ice cream. Watch the pastry chefs at work through the glass-walled kitchen.

• Try their famous 'Violet Cream' ice cream or a slice of 'Demel's Torte'.
• It can get crowded, but the experience is worth it.

A charming historic district with narrow cobblestone streets, Biedermeier houses, and artisan shops. It's a picturesque area for a leisurely stroll and discovering local crafts.

• Explore the small boutiques and galleries.
• Especially lovely during the Christmas market season.

A traditional Viennese Beisl (pub/restaurant) known for its hearty Austrian cuisine and extensive beer selection. It offers a more local and unpretentious dining experience.

• Try their 'Schweinsbraten' (roast pork) or 'Goulash'.
• A good option for a casual dinner after exploring Spittelberg.

The burial place of the Habsburg emperors and empresses, located beneath the Capuchin Church. It's a somber yet historically significant site, housing many elaborate sarcophagi.

• Photography is generally not allowed inside.
• A quiet and reflective experience.

A legendary, dimly lit Viennese coffee house with a bohemian past, known for its artistic atmosphere and 'Buchteln' (sweet yeast dumplings). It feels like stepping back in time.

• The Buchteln are served warm with vanilla sauce.
• Enjoy the unique, somewhat smoky ambiance.

Vienna's most famous city park, featuring beautiful flowerbeds, walking paths, and iconic statues, including the Johann Strauss Monument. It's a perfect place for a relaxing afternoon stroll.

• The Johann Strauss Monument is a popular photo spot.
• Rent a rowboat on the small lake if weather permits.

Located within Stadtpark, this elegant restaurant offers fine dining with a focus on modern Austrian cuisine and an exceptional cheese selection. It provides a sophisticated culinary experience.

• Ideal for a special occasion dinner.
• Their cheese platters are highly recommended.

The Museum of Applied Arts showcases a diverse collection of design objects, furniture, textiles, and decorative arts from the Middle Ages to the present day. It's a treasure trove for design enthusiasts.

• Explore the permanent collections and temporary exhibitions.
• The museum shop offers unique design items.

A small, charming museum dedicated to the history and culture of the Viennese coffee house. It offers a glimpse into the traditions and atmosphere of these iconic establishments.

• A unique and less crowded museum experience.
• Learn about the social importance of coffee houses in Vienna.

See the whimsical, colorful apartment building designed by Friedensreich Hundertwasser. Nearby, the Kunst Haus Wien showcases more of his work and hosts contemporary art exhibitions.

• The Hundertwasserhaus itself is residential, so only exterior viewing is possible.
• The Kunst Haus Wien museum shop has unique souvenirs.

A Michelin-starred restaurant offering innovative Austrian cuisine in a sophisticated setting within Stadtpark. Known for its exceptional quality and service, it's a premier dining destination.

• Reservations are essential and should be made far in advance.
• Consider their tasting menus for a comprehensive culinary journey.

A picturesque UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its vineyards, apricot orchards, charming medieval towns, and ancient castles. Enjoy a scenic boat trip or explore by car/train.

• Consider a full-day guided tour for ease of transport and sightseeing.
• Sample local wines and apricot products.

The iconic blue-and-white tower of this former Augustinian monastery is a prominent landmark in Dürnstein. The ruins offer historical insights and beautiful views of the valley.

• Climb to the Dürnstein Castle ruins above the town for panoramic views.
• The town itself is very charming for a walk.

A magnificent Baroque Benedictine monastery perched on a rocky outcrop overlooking the Danube. Its opulent architecture and imperial apartments are breathtaking.

• The library and marble hall are highlights.
• Allow time to enjoy the views from the abbey terraces.

Enjoy regional specialties paired with local wines at a traditional 'Heuriger' or winery restaurant in one of the Wachau villages. Experience authentic Austrian hospitality.

• Many Heurigers are seasonal; check opening times.
• Ask for recommendations on local wine pairings.

A popular hilltop in the Vienna Woods offering spectacular panoramic views of the city, the Danube River, and the surrounding landscape. It's a refreshing escape from the urban bustle.

• Take bus 38A from Heiligenstadt station.
• Enjoy a coffee or snack at the restaurant with a view.

Grinzing is a picturesque village known for its traditional Heuriger wine taverns, where local winemakers serve their own young wine and simple, hearty food. Experience authentic Viennese culture.

• Look for the 'Ausg'steckt' sign indicating the tavern is open.
• Try the local Grüner Veltliner wine.

Vienna's tallest structure, offering breathtaking 360-degree views from its observation deck and revolving restaurants. It provides a different perspective on the city and the Danube.

• The views are particularly stunning at sunset.
• Consider dining in one of the rotating restaurants for a unique experience.

A stylish rooftop bar and restaurant located on top of the Sofitel Vienna Stephansdom, offering spectacular city views and creative cocktails. It's a chic spot for an evening drink.

• Dress code might be smart casual.
• The illuminated ceiling art is a unique feature.

This museum showcases the extensive furniture collection of the Habsburg emperors, offering a fascinating insight into imperial lifestyles and interior design across centuries.

• See furniture from various eras, including Sisi's apartments.
• A less crowded but very informative museum.

A beautifully preserved traditional Viennese coffee house with a billiard table and a classic ambiance. It offers an authentic experience away from the main tourist crowds.

• Enjoy the relaxed atmosphere and classic Viennese coffee.
• Try their 'Topfenpalatschinken' (quark crepes).

The only one of Mozart's Viennese residences still existing, this museum allows visitors to step into the composer's world. See the rooms where he lived and composed some of his greatest works.

• Listen to Mozart's music as you explore.
• Learn about his life and career in Vienna.

Experience world-class opera or ballet at an affordable price by purchasing last-minute standing room tickets. It's a fantastic way to enjoy Viennese performing arts.

• Tickets go on sale about 1.5 hours before the performance.
• Arrive early to queue; standing room tickets are limited.

One of the largest cultural complexes in the world, housing institutions like the Leopold Museum (Austrian Expressionism) and MUMOK (Modern Art). It's a vibrant hub for art and culture.

• Choose one or two museums to focus on, or explore the courtyards and public art.
• The Leopold Museum is famous for its Schiele collection.

Located within the MuseumsQuartier, this cafe offers a relaxed setting for lunch or coffee amidst the museum complex. It's a convenient and stylish spot.

• A good place to recharge between museum visits.
• Enjoy the modern ambiance.

A magnificent Baroque church with a striking dome and two flanking columns, inspired by ancient Roman triumphal arches. It's an architectural masterpiece and an important landmark.

• Consider taking the elevator to the dome for close-up views of the frescoes.
• The church often hosts classical concerts.

A renowned Viennese institution for a quick and delicious meal, serving high-quality sausages ('Würstel') with various accompaniments. It's a quintessential Viennese street food experience.

• Try the 'Käsekrainer' (sausage with cheese).
• Perfect for a casual, late-night snack.

Witness the training or a performance of the world-famous Lipizzaner stallions, an iconic Viennese tradition. The baroque winter riding school is itself a stunning venue.

• Book tickets well in advance, especially for performances.
• Morning training sessions are often less expensive than full performances.

A classic Viennese coffee house located near the Albertina museum, offering a traditional ambiance and a wide selection of cakes and pastries. It's a perfect spot to recharge.

• Enjoy their Sachertorte or a traditional Viennese coffee.
• A good location for a mid-afternoon break.

A beautiful public park located behind the Hofburg Palace, featuring the iconic Mozart Monument and the Palmenhaus (a stunning Art Nouveau glasshouse). It's a tranquil oasis in the city center.

• The Palmenhaus café is a lovely spot for a drink.
• The park is especially pleasant in spring and summer.

A modern take on traditional Viennese cuisine, this restaurant offers delicious Goulash and other Austrian classics in a stylish, contemporary setting. It's a great spot for a relaxed dinner.

• Their specialty is Goulash, available in several varieties.
• Good value for money in a popular area.

A classic, atmospheric Viennese coffee house with a long history, known for its rustic charm and traditional coffee and cakes. It's a perfect spot for a final Viennese breakfast or coffee.

• Enjoy the authentic, unpretentious ambiance.
• A great place to savor your last Viennese coffee.

A modern indoor market offering a diverse range of food stalls, gourmet products, and international cuisine. It's a great place to grab a final, diverse lunch or pick up edible souvenirs.

• Offers a wide variety of lunch options.
• Good for last-minute souvenir shopping for local delicacies.

Vienna's international airport, serving as the departure point for your journey home. Ensure you allow ample time for check-in and security procedures.