Top 10 Things to Do in Vienna

Vienna, the capital of Austria, is a city rich in history, art, and culture. Whether you're a fan of classical music, fascinated by historical architecture, or simply enjoy sipping coffee at a charming café, Vienna has something to offer everyone. This guide from Viennatrips.com covers the top 10 things to do in Vienna, ensuring that your visit to this enchanting city is nothing short of spectacular.

Things to visit in Vienna

1. Explore the Schönbrunn Palace

One of Vienna's most iconic landmarks, Schönbrunn Palace is a must-visit for history lovers. The palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, was the former summer residence of the Habsburg family and features stunning baroque architecture and over 1,400 rooms.

Highlights of Schönbrunn Palace

  • Take a Guided Tour: Explore the opulent state rooms and learn about the history of the Habsburgs.
  • Stroll in the Gardens: Don't miss the beautifully landscaped gardens, complete with fountains and sculptures.
  • Visit the Gloriette: Enjoy panoramic views of the palace and the city from the Gloriette, a grand structure located on a hill behind the palace.

2. Discover St. Stephen's Cathedral

Located in the heart of the city, St. Stephen’s Cathedral (Stephansdom) is one of Vienna's most recognizable landmarks. This Gothic masterpiece has a rich history spanning over 700 years.

Things to Do at St. Stephen's Cathedral

  • Climb the South Tower: For an incredible view of Vienna, climb the 343 steps to the top of the South Tower.
  • Take a Catacombs Tour: Explore the underground catacombs and learn more about the cathedral's history.
  • Admire the Roof Tiles: The cathedral's colorful roof tiles are a sight to behold, showcasing intricate patterns and the Austrian coat of arms.

3. Visit the Belvedere Palace

The Belvedere Palace is a baroque gem, consisting of two stunning palaces – Upper and Lower Belvedere. The palace is home to a vast collection of Austrian art, including the famous "The Kiss" by Gustav Klimt.

  • Art Collection: The Belvedere houses works by prominent artists like Klimt, Schiele, and Rodin.
  • Stroll in the Gardens: The formal gardens between the two palaces are perfect for a leisurely stroll.

4. Experience Vienna's Coffeehouse Culture

No trip to Vienna would be complete without experiencing its famous coffeehouse culture. Viennese coffeehouses are renowned for their elegant atmosphere, where you can relax and savor a cup of coffee while reading a newspaper or chatting with friends.

Recommended Coffeehouses

  • Café Central: A historic café once frequented by famous intellectuals like Freud and Trotsky.
  • Café Sacher: Try the iconic Sachertorte, a rich chocolate cake, at Café Sacher.

5. Take a Ride on the Giant Ferris Wheel

The Giant Ferris Wheel (Wiener Riesenrad) in the Prater Amusement Park is a classic Vienna attraction, offering stunning views of the city from its cabins. Built in 1897, it's one of the oldest operating Ferris wheels in the world.

  • Scenic Views: Take in panoramic views of Vienna from high above the city.
  • Prater Park: Spend time exploring the rest of Prater Park, which offers various rides and activities.

6. Admire Art at the MuseumsQuartier

The MuseumQuartier is a cultural hub that brings together modern and classical art. It's home to several prominent museums, such as the Leopold Museum, the Museum of Modern Art (mumok), and the Kunsthalle Wien.

  • Leopold Museum: Features an impressive collection of works by Egon Schiele and Gustav Klimt.
  • mumok: For fans of contemporary art, mumok is a must-visit.

7. Relax at Stadtpark

Take a break from sightseeing and relax at Stadtpark, one of Vienna's most beautiful green spaces. The park is famous for its statues, including the gilded bronze monument of Johann Strauss II, the "Waltz King."

What to Do in Stadtpark

  • Picnic by the Lake: Enjoy a picnic by the picturesque pond.
  • Photo Opportunities: Take a picture with the iconic statue of Johann Strauss II.

8. Shop at Naschmarkt

The Naschmarkt is Vienna's most famous market, offering a wide variety of fresh produce, spices, and international delicacies. This bustling market is a feast for the senses and a great place to grab a quick bite or shop for local ingredients.

  • Street Food: Sample delicious street food from various cuisines.
  • Local Goods: Pick up some Austrian cheese, spices, or wine to take home.

9. Watch a Performance at the Vienna State Opera

Vienna is synonymous with classical music, and there's no better place to experience it than at the Vienna State Opera. Attending an opera or ballet performance is a quintessential Vienna experience.

Tips for Visiting the Opera

  • Book Tickets in Advance: The Vienna State Opera is one of the busiest opera houses in the world, so book your tickets early.
  • Take a Guided Tour: Learn about the history of this iconic venue on a behind-the-scenes tour.

10. Visit the Hundertwasser House

The Hundertwasserhaus is one of Vienna's most unique attractions, designed by the artist Friedensreich Hundertwasser. The colorful façade, uneven floors, and integration of nature make this building stand out from Vienna's more traditional architecture.

  • Unique Design: Admire the bold colors and whimsical design of the building.
  • Kunst Haus Wien: Visit the nearby Kunst Haus Wien, a museum dedicated to Hundertwasser's work.

Conclusion

Vienna is a city that has something for everyone – from its grand palaces and historical landmarks to its vibrant markets and cozy coffeehouses. Whether you're a first-time visitor or returning to explore more of what Vienna has to offer, these top 10 things to do will help make your trip unforgettable. If you're planning your visit, be sure to check out other guides and insider tips on Viennatrips.com and our curated list of top Attractions.

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