Discover the Wonders of Vienna

With a millennium-long history, Vienna boasts ruins and relics, masterpiece-stuffed museums, and grand palaces. Moreover, it is a modern metropolis consistently rated one of the world’s most livable cities, visible in its gracious Bezirke (districts) and cutting-edge cultural attractions.

Start at Stephansdom

Gothic and glorious, iconic Stephansdom and its 136m (446ft)-high South Tower loom over the central Innere Stadt. While entering the church is free, there is a fee for a close-up look at the Gothic masterworks in the central nave. An elevator whisks you to the 21-ton Pummerin bell in the North Tower. Alternatively, tackle the 343 steps to the South Tower for views of the colorful mosaic roof tiles and sprawling city views. You can also visit the subterranean Catacombs, which serve as an ossuary for those who perished during the Plague.

Mosaic tiles on the roof of Stephansdom, Vienna, Austria — Ascend Stephansdom’s towers to see the elaborate roof mosaics – and the city beyond.

Tour the Imperial Complex at the Hofburg

The Hofburg is a show of imperial power through architecture, encompassing 240,000 sq m (2,583,338 sq ft). This complex is where the Habsburgs amassed their extensive collections of art and artifacts. Start your visit in the Sisi Museum and Imperial Apartments, then explore 17 regal rooms leading to the frescoed, columned Prunksaal (State Hall of the Austrian National Library). The dazzling Austrian crown jewels await you in the Kaiserliche Schatzkammer, while the Weltmuseum contains 250,000 anthropological objects. Additionally, don’t miss the majestic Lipizzaner stallions, which demonstrate breathtaking equestrian feats at the Spanish Riding School’s baroque winter arena.

A sculpture in the hall of the State Hall of the Austrian National Library, Vienna, Austria — The State Hall of the Austrian National Library shows the Hofburg’s imposing opulence.

Explore a Museum Wonderland

Two institutional treasures sit next to the Hofburg on Maria-Theresien-Platz: the Naturhistorisches Museum Vienna and the Kunsthistorisches Museum. These museums’ endless galleries contain collections that span seven millennia, showcasing meteorites, antiquities from ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome, as well as world-famous old-master paintings.

People on benches in front of MUMOK, MuseumsQuartier, Vienna, Austria — After you’ve visited the galleries of the sprawling MuseumsQuartier, linger a while.

Step into Splendor at Schönbrunn Palace

Schönbrunn Palace is Vienna’s most visited attraction, so it pays to start early. Tour the 45 opulent Rococo state rooms, ceremonial halls, and private apartments of the summer Habsburg residence. The beautifully adorned grounds of Schlosspark include palatial fountains, obelisks, and the hilltop triumphal arch Gloriette, commissioned by Maria Theresa. The Tiergarten, founded in 1752 by Emperor Franz I, is the oldest zoo in the world.

Sculptures at Schönbrunn Palace at sunset, Vienna, Austria — Schönbrunn Palace is glorious, both inside and out.

Admire the Art at Schloss Belvedere

After commissioning a new palace in 1723, arts connoisseur Prince Eugene of Savoy filled it with masterpieces. Later, Empress Maria Theresa transformed it into Vienna’s first public museum. Schloss Belvedere remains a baroque work of art, displaying top-notch Austrian art from the Middle Ages to the present day, including Gustav Klimt’s world-famous The Kiss.

Step Out at Prater Park

Once an imperial hunting ground, Prater is now a quintessential Vienna recreational space, most famous for the giant Würstelprater amusement park. The 200 attractions include family-friendly rides, adrenaline-pumping swings, and the famed Riesenrad (Ferris wheel).

Blumenrad Ferris wheel at Prater amusement park, Vienna, Austria — At Würstelparter amusement park, the modern Blumenrad Ferris wheel complements the historic, iconic Risenrad.

Sample Vienna’s Coffee Culture

Vienna’s cafes are filled with charm, where suited waiters serve coffee in beautifully decorated spaces. With a coffeehouse culture that has been brewing since the late 1600s, you can find delightful establishments like Prückel, Schwarzenberg, and Landtmann among the Ringstrasse originals.

Sip and Swirl in Urban Vineyards

Vienna is unique as the only European capital where wine is grown within its limits, particularly in the picturesque hillside villages such as Grinzing. The city invites you to enjoy local wines, including grünner veltliner, often accompanied by an approachable Heuriger (wine tavern) experience.

Meander Through Local Outdoor Markets

Your visit to Vienna wouldn’t be complete without exploring the vibrant local markets. From the popular Naschmarkt with its 120 food stalls to the diverse Brunnenmarkt, there’s a sensory feast awaiting you.

People at the stalls buying food at Naschmarket in Vienna, Austria — Come hungry to local markets like Naschmarkt.

Hike in the Vienna Hills

If you want to venture beyond the manicured parks and landscaped lawns, choose one of the signposted Stadtwanderweg (city hiking trails) that wind through the Vienna Woods.

Relax on the Danube Waterfront

The summer months draw Viennese to relax at the riverside along the Danube. Whether picnicking on the promenade or lounging in bars by the water, there are numerous options to unwind and enjoy the scenery.

The Copa Beach area by the Neue Donau (New Danube) 22th district of Vienna, Austria — Along the Danube, seasonal beach setups draw locals all summer long.

Slide Down the Tallest Building in Austria

Austria’s tallest structure, the 252m (827ft)-high Danube Tower (Donauturm), has panoramic views and a thrilling slide experience that adds an adventurous touch to your Vienna exploration.

In summary, Vienna offers a rich blend of history, culture, and modern attractions to enjoy. From its imperial architecture to vibrant coffee culture, iBestTravel invites you to explore everything this remarkable city has to offer.