Vienna 5 days

The former imperial palace of the Habsburg dynasty, this vast complex houses several museums including 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.

• Book tickets online in advance to save time.
• Consider the 'Sisi Ticket' if you plan to visit Schönbrunn Palace as well.

A historic and elegant coffee house, once a meeting place for intellectuals and artists like Freud and Trotsky. Enjoy traditional Viennese coffee and pastries in a stunning neo-Gothic setting.

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

Vienna's most iconic religious building, a Gothic masterpiece with a striking tiled roof. Climb the South Tower for panoramic city views or explore the catacombs.

• The North Tower offers access via elevator.
• Guided tours are available and highly recommended for historical context.

Experience a classical music concert featuring Viennese waltzes and operetta melodies, often performed by descendants of Johann Strauss. Enjoy an evening of timeless music in a beautiful Belle Époque concert hall.

• Concerts often include a welcome drink.
• Dress code is smart casual.

This stunning Baroque palace complex comprises the Upper and Lower Belvedere, housing an impressive collection of Austrian art, most famously Gustav Klimt's 'The Kiss'. Wander through the ornate state rooms and the beautiful gardens.

• Visit the Upper Belvedere first for the main Klimt collection.
• Allow time to stroll through the gardens connecting the two palaces.

Vienna's most famous market, offering a vibrant mix of food stalls, restaurants, and specialty shops. Sample international delicacies, fresh produce, and local treats.

• Great for a casual lunch with diverse options.
• Saturday is the flea market day, making it even more bustling.

Vienna's main city museum, recently reopened after extensive renovation. It showcases the city's history, culture, and art from prehistory to the present day. Admission to the permanent collection is now free.

• Check the schedule for temporary exhibitions, which are ticketed.
• The museum is architecturally interesting itself.

A lively cultural hub housing several museums (like Leopold Museum and MUMOK), cafes, and performance spaces. It's a great area to soak in Vienna's contemporary art scene and enjoy an evening stroll.

• Enjoy a drink at one of the outdoor bars in warmer months.
• The architecture itself is a blend of Baroque and modern styles.

The magnificent former summer residence of the Habsburg emperors, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore the opulent state rooms, the charming Imperial Carriage Museum, and the vast Baroque gardens.

• The 'Imperial Tour' covers the most important rooms.
• Consider purchasing the Schönbrunn Pass for access to more attractions on the grounds.

Wander through the expansive, meticulously maintained Baroque gardens. Highlights include the Neptune Fountain, the Roman Ruin, and the Gloriette, offering stunning views back towards the palace and Vienna.

• The Gloriette has a cafe with fantastic views.
• Rent a small electric cart if walking the entire grounds is too strenuous.

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

• Check feeding times for special animal encounters.
• The zoo is integrated into the palace gardens, making for a unique visit.

A cozy, traditional Viennese restaurant with a rustic, Austrian farm-house ambiance. It's known for hearty, authentic Austrian cuisine and a welcoming atmosphere.

• Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends.
• Try the Wiener Schnitzel or the Goulash.

A striking example of Viennese Art Nouveau architecture, famous for its golden dome of laurel leaves. It houses Gustav Klimt's 'Beethoven Frieze', a monumental work of art.

• Check opening hours as they can vary.
• The building itself is as much an attraction as the art inside.

A vibrant and eccentric apartment complex designed by Friedensreich Hundertwasser, known for its colorful facades, uneven floors, and rooftop trees. The adjacent Hundertwasser Village offers shops and a cafe with similar artistic flair.

• The apartment buildings are residential, so only view from the outside.
• The Hundertwasser Museum (Quartier 21) is nearby if you want to see more of his work.

Located in the Museumsquartier, this museum boasts the world's largest collection of Egon Schiele works, alongside significant pieces by Gustav Klimt and Oskar Kokoschka. It's a must-visit for lovers of Austrian modern art.

• The museum's modern architecture is also noteworthy.
• Allocate ample time to appreciate Schiele's intense portraits.

A traditional Viennese Beisl (tavern) offering classic Austrian dishes in a down-to-earth atmosphere. It's a great spot for authentic local food without the high prices of more touristy establishments.

• Known for its excellent Tafelspitz (boiled beef).
• Can get busy, so booking ahead is advisable.

A large public park famous for its amusement park, the Wurstelprater, featuring the iconic Giant Ferris Wheel (Wiener Riesenrad). It's also a great place for a leisurely stroll or bike ride.

• Ride the Giant Ferris Wheel for classic city views.
• The park is free to enter; rides are individually ticketed.

Vienna's oldest Baroque garden, offering a tranquil escape. It's also home to the Augarten Porcelain Manufactory and the Flak Towers, remnants of WWII.

• Visit the Porcelain Museum within the park.
• Enjoy a coffee at the Augarten Art Nouveau Café.

This 252-meter-high tower offers breathtaking panoramic views of Vienna, the Danube River, and the surrounding landscape. It features observation decks and a revolving restaurant.

• The best time for photos is late afternoon before sunset.
• Book a table at the revolving restaurant for a special dining experience.

Experience a traditional Viennese wine tavern, often located in the city's outskirts like Grinzing or Stammersdorf. Enjoy local young wine ('Heuriger') and simple, hearty Austrian food in a convivial atmosphere.

• Look for the green pine branch above the door, indicating it's open.
• Self-service buffets are common for food.