Vienna Travel Guide: A Complete Look at a Breathtaking City
Vienna Travel Guide: A Complete Look at a Breathtaking City
While well-known, tourists will typically shy away from Vienna in favor of more popular European cities like Rome, Paris and Amsterdam. But what many don’t realize is how much Vienna actually has to offer.
Located in Austria, Vienna has amazing art, history, culture and bites! And if you’re not too keen on making an Austrian roadtrip, Vienna’s only a short drive or train ride from Prague, Budapest Munich or Bratislava. In this travel guide, I am sharing all my secrets for planning a trip to Vienna, Austria, including where to stay and eat, what to see, how to get around, and when to go!
vienna travel guide
Timing
Time of Year
While you can technically visit Vienna at any time, there’s definitely a few months out of the year that are more preferred.
I’d avoid traveling from June to July as much as possible. Summers are Vienna’s peak tourist season so prices will be higher and crowds will be much thicker.
Although quite cold, Winter is one of the best times to travel to Vienna. If you’re visiting in December head to the world famous Christmas Market at Rathaus City Hall. And if you’re traveling in January or February? Live out your wildest Bridgerton dreams at one of Vienna’s yearly balls.
My favorite time to see Vienna is the Spring. Nestled between ornate architecture, Vienna’s many blooming gardens paint the city in such a spectacular beauty that can’t be missed. Coupled with warming weather and fewer crowds, Spring is the best time to visit the city.
Like Spring, Fall also offers amazing sights, comfortable weather and fewer crowds. If sipping a rich, warm coffee with a slice of Sachertorte outside a historic cafe is your thing, Fall might be for you.
Trip Length
Vienna can be explored in a few days or enjoyed more slowly over one week. I visited for 5 non-consecutive days, but feel like 4 days – including travel time – is the perfect amount of time you need to hit all the big sights.
vienna travel guide
Transportation
How To Get Around
Vienna is extremely walkable, as most sights are located in the city center (Innere Stadt) and only about 5-15 minutes away from each other on foot. If you don’t have the best shoes or if you’re interested in getting from one part of town to the next, try one of Vienna’s subway or streetcar routes.
If you’re taking a day trip outside the city, a rental car is a great option. Just secure a valid international driver’s permit before leaving for Austria.
How To Get There
Most major US cities offer either direct or 1-stop flights to Vienna’s International Airport. From there, a quick car transfer, ride share, rental car or train will take you to the city center.
And if you’re already in Europe, you can travel by train from cities like Budapest, Paris, Amsterdam, Krakow and more.
Fun fact: On my trip, I opted for a 1-stop flight with a 3-hour layover at London Heathrow. I landed in Heathrow on the same day as Prince Harry and Megan Markle’s Wedding, picking up a few Royal Wedding souvenirs en route.
vienna travel guide
Accommodations
Neighborhoods
For your first time in Vienna, I recommend staying in the Innere Stadt, or the city center. Home to many of Vienna’s attractions, this area is extremely walkable and has amazing history and old school charm.
If you’ve been to Vienna before or are looking for an alternative to the Innere Stadt, Neubau and Mariahilf are also excellent choices with plenty of museums, bars and shopping.
I’ve personally stayed in both the Innere Stadt and Mariahilf neighborhoods and am excited to make Neubau my home base during my next visit!
Hotels
Hotel Sacher – $$$$
The Guesthouse – $$$
Altstadt Vienna – $$
vienna travel guide
Sights
Schönbrunn Palace & Gardens
As the summer home to former Hapsburg emperors, Schönbrunn Palace is chalk full of history and decadence. This Baroque Palace has over 1400 rooms, all decorated in the Rococo style, and is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Of those I’ve seen, Schönbrunn is my favorite palace in all of Europe!
Hofburg Palace
When they weren’t enjoying summers at Schönbrunn the Hapsburg royals could be found at Hofburg Palace. Located in the heart of Vienna, Hofburg is today home to the Sisi Museum, former Royal Apartments and Spanish Riding School.
I personally loved visiting the Sisi Museum, dedicated to Austria’s Empress Elisabeth “Sisi”, who was a bit of an influencer in her day, for better or worse. I still remember as one of the most surprising and interesting exhibits I’ve ever seen for reasons you should go see for yourself!
Michaelerplatz
Michaelerplatz, or St. Michael’s Square, is the infamous square connected to one of Hofburg Palace’s entrances. Many horse drawn carriages stop right through the square, making it a picturesque photo stop or resting point.
Belvedere Museum
Belvedere is already worth visiting for its beautiful gardens and pristine facade, but the museum’s art collection is what truly makes this spot shine. Come for a visit to view the famous Gustav Klimt painting, “The Kiss“.
St. Stephen’s Cathedral
A Viennese landmark, St. Stephen’s Cathedral is considered widely as the symbol of the city. Not only does it hold Europe’s second-biggest free-swinging chimed church bell, but its roof is decorated with unique colorful tiles detailing Vienna’s coat of arms.
If you have time, climb to the roof of the Cathedral for some pretty spectacular views over Vienna’s Innere Stadt.
Vienna State Opera House
Did you really visit Vienna if you didn’t attend the Opera? The State Opera House is a Viennese cultural institution and one of the top opera houses in the world. Just make sure to book tickets in advance to make sure you are able to see a show while in town.
Albertina Terrace
If you’re looking for a great view of the State Opera House, take the city escalator up to Albertina Terrace. The Terrace does occasionally book out for events due to its amazing location and magical views.
Karlskirche
Karlskirche, or St. Charles’ Church, is a baroque marvel near near the Belvedere Museum. Recognizable from its large dome and two stone columns, the church sits in front of a giant fountain that, at any time of year, offers a beautiful panoramic views.
Prater
Vienna is home to one of the world’s oldest amusement parks: Prater. Built in 1897, the park is known for its old school Giant Ferris Wheel.
Judenplatz
Judenplatz is a square located in Vienna’s old town and was the center of the Viennese Jewish Community in the Middle Ages. Today, it holds the city’s Museum Judenplatz and the Schoa Memorial dedicated to victims of the Holocaust.
Spittelberg
Spittelberg is one of Vienna’s trendiest neighborhoods and popular among students and artists. I loved walking around the shops, cafes and schanigartens, or alfresco dining areas.
Rathaus
A city hall isn’t normally something I’d include on a must-see list, but I had to make an exception for Vienna’s Rathaus. If you’re into photography or have some extra time, stop inside for a photo-op by their grand staircase. Just be careful – depending on who is working security, they may not allow for photos.
Volksgarten
Across from Rathaus is Vienna’s magical garden of roses, Volksgarten. Originally commissioned by Emperor Franz I, the garden is a breathtaking visit in May when its 3000 rose bushes are in bloom. And at night, the space even transforms into a Club Disco with fun indoor and outdoor areas!
Hundertwasserhaus
Not too far from Prater is Hundertwasserhaus, a unique apartment complex in Vienna’s 3rd district. If you’re into art and/or are growing tired of Vienna’s Imperial architecture, Hundertwasserhaus is the place for you. Designed by artist Friedensreich Hundertwasser, the building’s design seems to ignore straight lines and standard architecture colors in favor of something much more unique.
Votivkirche
This Neo-Gothic style church is the second tallest in all of Vienna. Votivkirche is easy to reach on the city’s Ring Road, Ringstraße.
Peterskirche
An interesting baroque sight, Peterskirche was built in the early 1700s over what is believed to be the grounds and ruins of Vienna’s first ever church from the 4th century. Peterskirche and adjacent square are great for photos, but get here early! The square typically sees lots of pedestrian traffic.
Ankeruhr
Ankeruhr is an intricate Art Nouveau clock, similar to Prague’s well-known Astronomical Clock. Visit Ankeruhr at noon local time to see 12 historical figures parade across its face.
University of Vienna
Another gorgeous photo spot is the University of Vienna. With its Arcade Court, Great Reading Room and “Philosopher’s Steps“, the University has started offering guided tours in both German and English so that visitors can come view its beautiful interior.
vienna travel guide
Restaurants & Cafes
Dietary Restrictions?
For those with allergies like me, don’t fret. Most of the restaurants I’ve compiled here have options for the dairy-free, gluten-free and vegan*.
And Vienna has an easy-to-follow allergy-friendly labeling system that all restaurant menus abide by.
*Restaurants with an asterisk are less ideal for those with dietary restrictions.
Inner Stadt
Demel* – Traditional Viennese Bakery and Salon
- A touristy spot, but great for their traditional Viennese pastries and for avoiding lines you might find at Café Central or Café Sacher.
Loos Bar – Art Deco “American Bar” in the heart of Vienna
Lugeck – Wine Tavern offering classic Viennese dishes
Palmenhaus – Austrian-Mediterranean Fusion
Simply Raw Bakery – Vegan Brunch, Bowls and Baked Goods
- When in Vienna, you must try Sachertorte, an Austrian chocolate cake. I did just that at Simply Raw and was not disappointed!
Zum Schwarzen Kameel – Classic Viennese Brötchen and Cocktails
- My amazing friend (and Viennese local!), Michelle, said this is the First District spot to see and be seen. Dress cool, as this is not a touristy spot.
Neubau
Chili & Pfeffer – Chinese Fusion
- A highlight during my trip to Vienna! C&P has won the locals’ seal of approval too, as it was recommended to me by my friend, Michelle, who lives in the area with her family. Thanks again Michelle!
Seven North Vienna – Family style dining with amazing vegetable dishes!
Tian Bistro am Spittelberg – Vegetarian Fine Dining
Ulrich & Erich – Eclectic offerings, with both healthy options and bar food.
- Erich serves dairy-free ice cream sundaes in partnership with Veganista, Vienna’s first completely vegan ice cream shop.
Mariahilf
Aend – Michelin-Starred European Cuisine*
Disco Volante – Fun pizzeria where the chefs sing Italian songs while they cook!
Gasthaus Zum Wohl – Gluten-Free and Dairy-Free European fare
- Unfortunately, I only just discovered this hidden gem on my last night in Vienna. As someone who is restricted from many ravioli-style dishes, I still dream of Zum Wohl’s amazing spinach dumplings on tomato sauce with nut pesto.
Leopoldstadt
Das Loft – Bar in the Sofitel Hotel
- If it’s your first time in Vienna, this spot has amazing views of the city!
Wieden
DiningRuhm – Michelin-Starred Japanese-Peruvian Fusion with good wine list and great cocktails.
Landstrasse
Josef Brot – A Bakery, Patisserie and Bistro all in one
- Another spot recommended by my local friend, Michelle! Come here for excellent coffee, bread and pastries.
- There are other locations throughout the city, but not all have a bistro and patisserie like the Landstrasse location.
Steirereck – Ranked #12 restaurant in the world with two Michelin stars.
Döbling
Schuebel Auer – Restaurant making it’s own wine and food!
- Open in the spring and summer, it’s the perfect spot for alfresco dining with traditional Austrian food and a Weiser Spritzer.
vienna travel guide
Day Trips
Bratislava, Slovakia
If you’re looking to cross another country off your bucket list, look no further than this quick 1-hour trip from Vienna to Bratislava.
I self-drove myself across the border, but trains are probably the easiest route for this day trip! Bratislava Castle, Primate’s Palace and the spirited atmosphere about town made this a timeless day trip that I’ll remember for years to come.
Distance from Vienna: 1 Hour
Wachau Valley
There’s nothing like a trip to wine country. Take a Danube River Cruise to Wachau and enjoy a bottle of Grüner Veltliner in quintessential Austrian towns, Durnstein and Melk.
Have a little extra time? Rent a car and stay local for the night so you can enjoy additional spots like Aggstein Castle and explore Wachau’s wineries at your own pace.
Distance from Vienna: 1-1.5 Hours
Salzburg
Round out your trip to Vienna with The Sound of Music. Salzburg, while on the other side of Austria, is accessible by the ÖBB or WESTbahn trains in only 2.5 hours.
Visit the famous filming locations on a Sound of Music Tour or opt for a visit to Mozart’s Birthplace in the center of town. Either way, Salzburg is the perfect day trip from Vienna.
Distance from Vienna: 2.5 Hours
Hallstatt
While I prefer to spend 1 night in Hallstatt – to avoid the crowds, the town can still be visited on a long day trip. Discover the scenic lake views, breathtaking mountains and fairytale-like architecture that’s become quite an Internet sensation.
Distance from Vienna: 3 Hours
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