11 Things to Do in Vienna, Austria

Vienna, a city of palaces, gardens, museums, vineyards, and charming coffee shops, seamlessly weaves together the allure of its historical roots with vibrant contemporary vibes. With a multitude of attractions and activities to choose from, exploring Vienna can be both exciting and overwhelming. However, the city’s compact layout allows visitors to easily navigate and experience a many highlights in a short period of time. While the following list contains 11 must-see attractions, especially for first-time visitors, it’s equally important to wander the enchanting streets, marvel at the captivating architecture, and immerse oneself in the city’s vibrant culture.

If you’re headed to Vienna for the first time, be sure to check out our post on what to know before you go!

1. The Schönbrunn Palace and Gardens: A visit to this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a must. Step inside the magnificent palace to immerse yourself in its rich history, while my personal favorite, the sprawling gardens, offer a picturesque escape even on a rainy day. Don’t miss the chance to walk up to the Gloriette for breathtaking panoramic views and treat yourself to a bite or drink at its café.

2. The Belvedere Palace and Gardens: Another must in Vienna, this baroque palace has an upper and a lower level, with perfectly manicured gardens between them. We visited only the upper level, which houses a renowned art museum, featuring Gustav Klimt’s iconic painting “The Kiss.”

3. The Hofburg Palace and Gardens: The Hofburg Palace is a can’t miss, and it is conveniently located in close proximity to numerous city attractions. While the palace now hosts a variety of museums (of which there are countless in Vienna), we opted to explore the charming Volksgarten and Burggarten, adjacent to the palace. In the Burggarten, be sure to visit the iconic Mozart statue and stop by the Brasserie Palmenhaus for a bite and/or coffee with a view.

4. The Albertina: Although I’m not an art connoisseur, the Albertina surpassed my expectations and was one of the most impressive art museums I’ve ever visited, and my personal favorite in Vienna. During our visit, the museum showcased captivating exhibitions, including dedicated halls featuring the remarkable works of Picasso and Alex Katz. As a Mainer, it was particularly exciting to see Katz’s pieces, which often incorporated scenic backdrops of Maine, adding an extra layer of connection.

5. St. Stephen’s Cathedral: With its striking Gothic architecture and vibrant, intricately colored roof, this towering church stands as the tallest in Vienna, leaving visitors in awe of its magnificence and rich historical significance. A fascinating tidbit: it even served as the venue for Mozart’s wedding. Notably, basic entry is free, and we had the fortunate timing of arriving just before closing on a rainy Sunday, allowing us to easily stroll inside and immerse ourselves in its captivating ambiance.

6. The Spanish Riding School: Visiting the Spanish Riding School presents a truly unique and captivating experience, where you can witness the mesmerizing performance of the world-renowned Lipizzaner horses, often referred to as “the Ballet of White Stallions.” Even if you’re unable to spare time for a full performance, I highly recommend stealing a glimpse of these majestic creatures while strolling by the Hofburg Palace, as their presence alone exudes an enchanting charm that is sure to leave a lasting impression.

7. The Vienna State Opera House: In the city of music, Vienna State Opera House is a must-visit destination for any lover of classical music and opera. Whether you opt for a guided tour to explore its storied halls or attend a captivating performance by world-class artists, this iconic venue promises an unforgettable experience that celebrates the pinnacle of musical artistry.

8. Vienna City Hall and Square (Wiener Rathaus & Rathausplatz): Vienna’s city hall is truly in a league of its own. Its captivating beauty is simply unparalleled. Although guided tours are available, we opted for the simpler pleasure of strolling by and admiring the awe-inspiring architecture from the outside.

9. St. Charles Church (Karlskirche): A magnificent example of Baroque architecture, stands as yet another awe-inspiring marvel in the city, captivating visitors with its grandeur and exquisite design.

10. Museums Quarter: As if Vienna’s attractions noted above weren’t already impressive, the city boasts a dedicated museum quarter, featuring stunning buildings that house a treasure trove of cultural institutions. Although our time was limited, we had to walk through the area. And, on a future visit, I would visit the Natural History Museum (Naturhistorisches Museum Wien).

11. Visit a Vineyard: As a wine enthusiast, I find it truly remarkable that Vienna has numerous vineyards nestled within its city limits. Although our plans to visit the vineyards (including, in particular, the Cobenzl Winery), were thwarted by downpour, we happily embraced the opportunity to savor Viennese wines at the charming downtown restaurants. Visiting the vineyards will certainly be at the top of my agenda for a return trip.

-Kasey