Vienna travel guide

Top things to do in Vienna

Ranked by how often travelers include them in TravBuddy itineraries and 6,00,699+ traveler ratings.

1. 1.Belvedere Palace

   4.7
   Landmark88,801 reviews~20011:00 AM

   Visit the stunning Belvedere Palace, home to Gustav Klimt's 'The Kiss' and other masterpieces of Austrian art. Explore both the Upper and Lower Belvedere.

   Tip: Purchase tickets online to avoid queues and allow at least 2-3 hours to fully explore the Upper Belvedere.

2. 2.Hofburg

   4.7
   Landmark58,749 reviews~20009:30 AM

   Step into the former imperial palace, a sprawling complex that housed the powerful Habsburg dynasty. Explore the Imperial Apartments, the Sisi Museum, and the Imperial Silver Collection.

   Tip: Purchase tickets online in advance to avoid long queues.

3. 3.St. Stephen's Cathedral

   4.7
   Cathedral1,34,116 reviews~1509:30 AM

   Visit the majestic St. Stephen's Cathedral, a symbol of Vienna. Admire its gothic architecture and climb the South Tower for incredible city views.

   Tip: Visit the catacombs for a historical and slightly eerie experience.

4. 4.Hundertwasser House

   4.5
   Architecture32,307 reviews~20009:30 AM

   Start your day with a visit to the whimsical Hundertwasser House, a unique and colorful apartment building designed by Friedensreich Hundertwasser. Its organic forms and vibrant facade are a true artistic statement.

   Tip: You can't enter the residential building, but there's a café/souvenir shop (Hundertwasser Village) across the street where you can learn more and see the style inside.

5. 5.Prater

   4.6
   Amusement Park1,36,176 reviews~3012:30 PM

   Wind down your historical tour with a visit to the Prater amusement park. While not strictly historical, the iconic Giant Ferris Wheel (Riesenrad) offers panoramic views and has been a fixture of Vienna since 1897, featuring in many historical films.

   Tip: The Prater is a great place for a casual walk or to enjoy some classic fairground fun.

6. 6.Vienna State Opera House

   4.7
   Opera House61,354 reviews~1302:00 PM

   Take a guided tour of the magnificent Vienna State Opera House, one of the leading opera houses in the world. Learn about its history, architecture, and daily operations.

   Tip: Check the tour schedule online as times vary daily. If you're staying longer, consider attending a performance.

7. 7.Albertina

   4.7
   Museum34,252 reviews~1809:30 AM

   Visit the Albertina Museum, home to one of the most important print rooms in the world, as well as a diverse collection of modern art. Its temporary exhibitions are often outstanding.

   Tip: Check for current exhibitions as they change frequently.

8. 8.Karlskirche (St. Charles Church)

   4.6
   Landmark29,960 reviews~2002:30 PM

   Visit the stunning Baroque Karlskirche, an architectural masterpiece with its impressive dome and intricate frescoes. Climb to the top for panoramic views of Vienna, appreciating the city's artistic layout.

   Tip: Check for concert schedules as the church often hosts classical music performances.

9. 9.Military History Museum (Heeresgeschichtliches Museum)

   4.6
   Museum13,547 reviews~1502:30 PM

   Delve into Austria's military past at the Heeresgeschichtliches Museum, one of the oldest and most significant historical museums in Vienna. Its extensive collections cover centuries of military conflicts and advancements.

   Tip: Don't miss the exhibition on Archduke Franz Ferdinand and the car in which he was assassinated, a pivotal event in history.

10. 10.Leopold Museum

    4.7
    Museum11,437 reviews~1503:00 PM

    Immerse yourself in Austrian modern art at the Leopold Museum, home to one of the most important collections of Austrian art of the 20th century, including works by Egon Schiele and Gustav Klimt.

    Tip: It's located in the MuseumsQuartier, a cultural complex worth exploring further if time permits.

Where to eat in Vienna

Food spots that keep showing up in real trip plans.

1. 1.Pane è Cafe

   4.8
   Cafe1,311 reviews~6007:00 PM

   Kick off your food journey with a visit to Pane è Cafe, known for its excellent coffee and delicious pastries. Enjoy a classic Viennese coffee and a sweet treat.

   Tip: Try their pasta dishes, which often receive rave reviews.

2. 2.Figlmüller Bäckerstraße

   4.3
   Restaurant31,343 reviews~7007:30 PM

   Savor one last authentic Viennese meal at Figlmüller Bäckerstraße, famous for its massive and delicious Wiener Schnitzel. A must-try culinary experience.

   Tip: Reservations are highly recommended, as this popular spot fills up quickly.

3. 3.Café Landtmann

   4.4
   Cafe20,121 reviews~4012:00 PM

   Start your day with a traditional Viennese breakfast at the historic Café Landtmann. Enjoy the elegant ambiance and a taste of old-world charm.

   Tip: Try the Apfelstrudel or Sachertorte for an authentic Viennese dessert.

4. 4.Moment Cafe and Restaurant

   4.9
   Cafe1,858 reviews~4512:30 PM

   Enjoy a leisurely lunch at Moment Cafe and Restaurant, a well-regarded eatery near Belvedere Palace. It's a great spot for a relaxed meal amidst your art exploration.

   Tip: Try a traditional Austrian dish or one of their delicious desserts.

5. 5.ULRICH

   4.5
   Cafe5,866 reviews~5012:00 PM

   Have a delightful lunch at ULRICH, a popular spot known for its fresh, seasonal cuisine and relaxed atmosphere. Perfect for a midday break.

   Tip: Try their creative cocktails or specialty coffees.

6. 6.Demel K. u. K. Hofzuckerbäcker

   4.2
   Patisserie20,882 reviews~3004:30 PM

   Indulge your sweet tooth at Demel, a legendary imperial and royal confectioner. Sample exquisite cakes, pastries, and their famous Sachertorte.

   Tip: It can get very busy; consider taking treats to-go and enjoying them in a nearby park.

Hidden gems in Vienna

Highly rated, but not on every tourist checklist yet.

1. 1.Schönbrunn Palace

   4.7
   Palace1,82,367 reviews~4009:30 AM

   Spend your morning at the magnificent Schönbrunn Palace, the former imperial summer residence. Explore the opulent state rooms, stroll through the vast gardens, and visit the Gloriette for panoramic views.

   Tip: The 'Imperial Tour' gives a good overview of the palace interiors. Don't miss the Gloriette and Neptune Fountain in the gardens.

2. 2.Schmetterlinghaus

   4.2
   Garden8,406 reviews~1810:30 AM

   Step into the magical world of the Schmetterlinghaus, the Imperial Butterfly House, a stunning Art Nouveau glasshouse filled with exotic butterflies fluttering amidst lush vegetation. It's a living work of art.

   Tip: Visit on a sunny day for the most active butterflies.

Vienna nightlife

1. 1.Cabaret Fledermaus

   4.2
   Bar1,362 reviews~6009:00 PM

   Experience a unique piece of Viennese nightlife at Cabaret Fledermaus. Enjoy a drink in this historic cellar venue known for its artistic and lively atmosphere.

   Tip: Check their schedule in advance for specific showtimes and themes.

2. 2.O - the club

   3.6
   Bar3,780 reviews~5010:00 PM

   Kick off your Viennese nightlife adventure at O - the club, a popular spot in the city center known for its lively atmosphere and energetic music.

   Tip: Dress code is typically smart casual.

3. 3.U4 Vienna

   3.8
   Bar3,660 reviews~4010:00 PM

   Dive into the legendary U4 Vienna, a classic nightclub that has been a staple of Vienna's nightlife for decades, known for its diverse music nights.

   Tip: Check their website for themed nights – they often have something for everyone.

4. 4.Prater Dome

   3.6
   Bar3,157 reviews~5010:00 PM

   Experience one of Vienna's largest and most popular nightclubs, Prater Dome. With multiple floors and different music styles, it's a guaranteed party.

   Tip: Check their event schedule online as they often host special themed nights.

Destinations near Vienna