Vienna a week

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 rooms that tell the story of Austria's most powerful rulers.

• Book tickets online in advance to save time.
• Consider the combined ticket for access to multiple sections.

A historic and elegant coffee house known for its stunning architecture and literary past, having hosted figures like Sigmund Freud and Leon Trotsky. Enjoy traditional Viennese coffee and pastries in a grand setting.

• Can get very busy, especially on weekends; try to go slightly off-peak.
• Don't miss their famous Kaiserschmarrn.

Vienna's iconic Gothic cathedral, a masterpiece of architecture with its distinctive tiled roof and soaring spire. Climb the South Tower for panoramic city views or explore the catacombs below.

• The South Tower climb involves many steps but is worth it for the view.
• Guided tours of the catacombs are available.

These two elegant streets form Vienna's premier shopping district, lined with high-end boutiques, historic buildings, and the Plague Column (Pestsäule) on the Graben. Enjoy a leisurely stroll and admire the window displays.

Vienna's main city museum, recently reopened after extensive renovation. Its permanent collection is now free to enter and offers a comprehensive overview of the city's history, art, and culture from its origins to the present day.

• Admission to the permanent collection is free; special exhibitions are ticketed.
• Look for artifacts related to Vienna's musical heritage.

A magnificent Baroque church located directly opposite the Wien Museum. Its impressive dome and grand facade are iconic, and it often hosts classical music concerts.

• Check the schedule for concerts, which are often advertised outside.
• The interior is as stunning as the exterior.

A landmark Art Nouveau building, famous for its golden dome (the 'golden cabbage') and housing Gustav Klimt's Beethoven Frieze. It was built by artists for artists, a symbol of Viennese modernism.

• The Beethoven Frieze is a must-see, a powerful visual interpretation of music.
• The building itself is an architectural marvel.

Vienna's most popular market, offering a vibrant mix of food stalls, restaurants, and bars. It's a great place to sample international cuisine and soak in a lively atmosphere.

• Many stalls close by early evening, but restaurants remain open.
• Great for dinner if you want variety and a bustling environment.

The magnificent former summer residence of the Habsburg emperors, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore the opulent imperial apartments and learn about the history of Maria Theresa and Franz Joseph.

• The 'Imperial Tour' covers the most important rooms; 'Grand Tour' offers more.
• Arrive early to avoid the largest crowds, especially during peak season.

The sprawling Baroque gardens of Schönbrunn Palace are a masterpiece of landscape design. Wander through the manicured lawns, discover the Neptune Fountain, and climb to the Gloriette for stunning views.

• The Gloriette offers a fantastic vantage point for photos of the palace and Vienna.
• Consider visiting the Palm House or the Zoo within the grounds for additional experiences.

A beautiful Art Nouveau glasshouse within the Schönbrunn gardens, housing a tropical botanical garden and a stylish cafe. It's a perfect spot for a relaxing break amidst lush greenery.

• Enjoy a coffee or a light meal in a unique, botanical setting.
• The tropical plants add to the exotic ambiance.

Home to an unparalleled collection of Austrian art, including Klimt's 'The Kiss' and works by Schiele and Kokoschka. The Baroque palace itself is a masterpiece, offering stunning architecture and views.

• Book tickets online to skip the ticket queue.
• Don't miss the Hall of Mirrors and the Marble Hall within the palace.

The stunning Baroque gardens connect the Upper and Lower Belvedere palaces. Featuring ornate fountains, sculptures, and manicured hedges, they provide a beautiful backdrop for a stroll.

One of the world's leading art museums, housing the vast collections of the Habsburgs. Its highlights include masterpieces by Old Masters such as Bruegel, Raphael, Rembrandt, and Vermeer.

• Allow at least 3 hours to see the main collections.
• The Egyptian and Near Eastern Collection and the Kunstkammer are also remarkable.

The only one of Mozart's Vienna apartments still standing, where he lived and composed during his most productive years. It offers insight into his life and the city's music scene in the late 18th century.

• Experience the 'Mozart's Vienna' interactive exhibition.
• Discover his life beyond the music.

An iconic, colorful apartment building designed by artist Friedensreich Hundertwasser, known for its organic forms and lack of straight lines. Adjacent is the Hundertwasser Village, a small shopping complex with shops and a cafe in the same unique style.

• The building is residential, so you can only view it from the outside.
• The Hundertwasser Village offers unique souvenirs and a quirky cafe experience.

A large public park offering a mix of amusement park rides, green spaces, and the historic Wiener Riesenrad (Giant Ferris Wheel). Enjoy the lively atmosphere or take a relaxing walk.

• A ride on the Ferris Wheel offers classic panoramic views of the city.
• The park has a free-entry policy; you pay for individual rides.

Experience a traditional Viennese wine tavern, particularly in the charming village of Grinzing. Sample local young wines (Heuriger) and enjoy hearty Austrian food in a rustic setting.

• Many Heuriger are self-service for food and drink.
• This is a relaxed way to enjoy local culture and wine.

Witness the ballet of the Lipizzaner horses during a morning exercise or a full performance. This renowned institution preserves classical dressage traditions dating back centuries.

• Morning exercises are less formal and cheaper than full performances.
• Book tickets well in advance, as they sell out quickly.

Located within the Hofburg Palace, this treasury displays the immense wealth and treasures of the Holy Roman Empire and the Austrian Empire. See the Imperial Crown, jewels, and other priceless artifacts.

• Don't miss the Imperial Crown of the Holy Roman Empire.
• The collection offers a tangible glimpse into centuries of imperial power.

The magnificent State Hall of the Austrian National Library is one of the most beautiful historic libraries in the world. Admire the Baroque architecture, frescoes, and ancient globes.

• Photography is allowed, but without flash.
• It's a serene and awe-inspiring space.

Famous for serving arguably the best Wiener Schnitzel in Vienna, this traditional restaurant offers a classic Viennese dining experience. Reservations are highly recommended.

• Book your table weeks in advance, especially for dinner.
• The Schnitzel is enormous and meant for sharing, though they serve smaller portions too.

Located in the Museumsquartier, this museum houses a significant collection of Austrian modern art, with a strong focus on Egon Schiele and Oskar Kokoschka. It also features Viennese Secessionist works.

• The Schiele collection is particularly extensive and impressive.
• The Museumsquartier itself is a vibrant cultural hub.

One of the world's largest complexes for modern and contemporary art and culture. Beyond museums, it features cafes, shops, and public spaces, making it a lively urban area.

• Enjoy lunch at one of the many cafes or restaurants here.
• The architecture and atmosphere are worth exploring.

Vienna's tallest structure offers breathtaking 360-degree views of the city, the Danube River, and the surrounding landscape from its observation decks and revolving restaurant. It's a great spot for a final panoramic perspective.

• Go on a clear day for the best views.
• Consider having a drink or meal at the revolving restaurant for a special experience.