Vienna first time

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 where emperors and empresses once lived and worked.

• Book tickets online in advance to save time.
• Consider the combined ticket for access to all main attractions within the palace.

A historic and elegant coffee house, once a meeting place for intellectuals and artists like Sigmund Freud and Peter Altenberg. Enjoy traditional Viennese coffee and pastries in a stunning Art Nouveau setting.

• Expect a queue, especially during peak hours.
• Try the 'Kaiserschmarrn' (shredded pancake) if you're feeling indulgent.

One of the world's foremost art museums, housing the extensive collections of the Habsburgs. Marvel at masterpieces by Old Masters like Bruegel, Raphael, Rembrandt, and Vermeer, displayed in a magnificent Ringstrasse building.

• Focus on specific collections to avoid museum fatigue.
• Don't miss the Egyptian and Near Eastern Collection and the Kunstkammer.

Renowned for its traditional Viennese cuisine, especially its Tafelspitz (boiled beef). This classic restaurant offers an authentic dining experience in a sophisticated atmosphere.

• Reservations are highly recommended, especially for dinner.
• The Tafelspitz is served with all the traditional accompaniments.

The magnificent former summer residence of the Habsburg emperors, this UNESCO World Heritage site boasts stunning Baroque architecture, vast gardens, and a zoo. Explore the Imperial Tour or Grand Tour to see the palace's lavish interiors.

• Allow ample time for the gardens, including the Gloriette for panoramic views.
• The audio guide provides excellent historical context.

Vienna's most famous market, offering a vibrant mix of food stalls, restaurants, and small shops. It's a great place to sample international cuisine, local delicacies, and fresh produce.

• Visit on a Saturday for the flea market section.
• Plenty of options for a casual lunch.

Vienna's main city museum, recently reopened after an extensive renovation (December 2023). It offers a comprehensive look at the city's history, art, and culture, with free admission to its permanent collection.

• Admission to the permanent collection is free.
• Check for special temporary exhibitions which will have a ticket price.

Famous for serving what is arguably Vienna's best Wiener Schnitzel, this traditional restaurant is a must-visit for food lovers. The enormous, paper-thin schnitzel is a Viennese classic.

• Reservations are essential, often weeks in advance, especially for the main restaurant.
• They have a second location nearby (Bäckerstraße) which may have more availability.

This stunning Baroque palace complex consists of the Upper and Lower Belvedere, housing an impressive collection of Austrian art from the Middle Ages to the present day. It's most famous for Gustav Klimt's 'The Kiss'.

• Visit the Upper Belvedere first for the most famous artworks.
• The gardens between the palaces are free to explore and offer beautiful views.

A historic imperial and royal court confectioner, Demel offers exquisite cakes, pastries, and chocolates. Enjoy a refined afternoon tea or coffee break in its elegant tearoom.

• Watch the confectioners at work through the glass-walled kitchen.
• A perfect spot for a sweet treat after visiting Belvedere.

Explore the unique, colorful, and unconventional architecture of Friedensreich Hundertwasser. The nearby Kunst Haus Wien (Museum Hundertwasser) showcases more of his vibrant artistic vision and hosts temporary exhibitions.

• Hundertwasserhaus can only be viewed from the outside; the Kunst Haus Wien is where you can see his interior designs.
• The architecture is a stark contrast to the imperial style.

Ascend the South Tower of St. Stephen's Cathedral for breathtaking panoramic views of Vienna's cityscape. The climb offers a unique perspective on the historic heart of the city.

• The tower has 343 steps, so wear comfortable shoes.
• Best visited at sunset for stunning light over the city.

A traditional Viennese Beisl (tavern) offering authentic local dishes and a cozy atmosphere. It's a great spot for a final, hearty Austrian meal.

• Try the 'Schweinsbraten' (roast pork) or 'Goulash'.
• A more relaxed alternative to some of the more tourist-centric restaurants.