15 best things to do in Vienna

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.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.

5. 5.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.

6. 6.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.

7. 7.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.

8. 8.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.

9. 9.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.

10. 10.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.

11. 11.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.

12. 12.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.

13. 13.Kunst Haus Wien

    4.6
    Museum9,520 reviews~1503:30 PM

    Continue your artistic journey at Kunst Haus Wien, designed by Hundertwasser himself, featuring his works and temporary exhibitions. It's an extension of the Hundertwasser House's unique aesthetic.

    Tip: Check their website for current exhibitions and opening hours.

14. 14.Wien Museum Karlsplatz

    4.7
    Museum4,151 reviews~2504:30 PM

    Explore the Wien Museum Karlsplatz (reopening in 2023), offering a comprehensive overview of Vienna's history, culture, and art from various periods. It provides a deeper understanding of the city's artistic evolution.

    Tip: Verify current opening hours and exhibition details before your visit.

15. 15.Souvenir Shopping around Graben and Kohlmarkt

    4.7
    Shopping176 reviews~5003:30 PM

    Spend some time strolling through Graben and Kohlmarkt, two of Vienna's most elegant shopping streets. Find some last-minute souvenirs or simply admire the beautiful architecture and window displays.

    Tip: Look for traditional Viennese crafts, chocolates, or local delicacies to take home.

Ranked from 15 places that appear across real TravBuddy trips to Vienna and traveler ratings. Entry fees and timings change — confirm ahead for closures.