Vienna, the capital of Austria, is a city of culture, history, and elegance. It is home to some of the most famous composers, artists, and architects in the world, as well as stunning imperial palaces, museums, and gardens. Whether you are looking for a romantic getaway, a cultural immersion, or a family-friendly adventure, Vienna has something for everyone. Here are some of the best attractions, accommodation options, and transportation tips to help you plan your trip to Vienna.
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Attractions
Vienna has a wealth of attractions to suit every taste and interest. Here are some of the must-sees:
Vienna City Card
If you want to explore Vienna at your own pace and save money, you should get the Vienna City Card. This card gives you free or discounted access to over 210 attractions, museums and tours. You can also use public transport for free or get a hop-on hop-off bus ticket. The card is valid for 24, 48 or 72 hours and can be purchased online or at tourist information offices.
Vienna Schönbrunn Zoo & Palace
If you love wildlife, you can’t miss the Schönbrunn Zoo, the oldest and most modern zoo in Europe. You can see over 700 species of animals, including pandas, elephants and polar bears. The zoo is located in the grounds of the Schönbrunn Palace. This former summer residence of the Habsburgs is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most visited attractions in Vienna. You can tour its lavish rooms, or stroll through its expansive gardens.
Belvedere Palace in Vienna, Austria
This stunning baroque palace complex consists of two palaces, the Upper and Lower Belvedere, connected by a magnificent garden. The Upper Belvedere houses one of the finest collections of Austrian art, including the famous Kiss by Gustav Klimt. The Lower Belvedere hosts temporary exhibitions and showcases the lavish rooms of Prince Eugene of Savoy.
KHM Kunsthistorischenmuseum in Vienna, Austria
This is one of the most prestigious museums in the world, featuring masterpieces by Raphael, Rembrandt, Rubens and many more. You can also admire the impressive architecture of the museum building, which was built in the 19th century to house the imperial collections.
Albertina Museum in Vienna, Austria
This museum is home to one of the largest and most important print rooms in the world, with over one million drawings and prints. You can see works by Dürer, Michelangelo, Picasso and other great artists. The museum also has a modern art section and a photography collection.
Leopold Museum
The Leopold Museum is dedicated to Austrian modern art, especially from the Vienna Secession and Expressionist movements. You can see works by Egon Schiele, Oskar Kokoschka, Richard Gerstl and others. The museum also has a café with a terrace overlooking the MuseumsQuartier, a cultural complex with several other museums and venues.
Vienna’s Giant Ferris Wheel
This is one of the oldest and most iconic attractions in Vienna. It was built in 1897 and offers a spectacular view of the city from 65 meters high. You can choose from different types of cabins, such as luxury cabins with champagne or chocolate cabins with sweets. The ferris wheel is located in the Prater park, where you can also enjoy other rides and games.
St. Stephen’s Cathedral
This is the symbol of Vienna and one of the most impressive Gothic cathedrals in Europe. You can admire its colorful tiled roof, its towering spire and its richly decorated interior. You can also climb up to the towers for a panoramic view of the city or visit the catacombs where many important figures are buried.
Dom Museum Wien
The Dom Museum of Wien is located next to St. Stephen’s Cathedral and showcases the art and history of the cathedral and the archdiocese of Vienna. You can see medieval treasures, religious relics, contemporary artworks and more. The museum also offers guided tours and workshops for children and adults.
Hofburg Palace
This complex of buildings was the seat of power for the Habsburgs for centuries and now houses several museums, the Spanish Riding School, and the Austrian National Library. You can marvel at its architecture, learn about its history, or see the imperial crown jewels.
MuseumsQuartier
This cultural complex is one of the largest in the world and features several museums, galleries, and cultural institutions. You can explore art from ancient to contemporary times, discover natural history and science exhibits, or relax in its courtyards and cafes.
Accommodation
Vienna has no shortage of quality accommodation options, whether you are looking for five-star hotels or simple apartment alternatives. Here are some recommendations based on typical visitor needs:
Boutique Hotel am Stephansplatz from €241
Jasomirgottstraße 1
This four-star hotel is located in the heart of Vienna, just opposite the famous St. Stephen’s Cathedral. It offers personalized service, a little spa, and a cafe with a breathtaking view of the cathedral. It is ideal for couples or solo travelers who want to be close to the main attractions. [VIEW HOTEL]
Hotel Kaiserhof Wien from €139
Frankenberggasse 10
This four-star hotel is located in a quiet side street of Vienna’s vibrant fourth district, only a seven-minute walk away from the State Opera and the Ringstrasse Boulevard. It offers a spa area with sauna, steam bath and fitness room, and serves a rich Viennese breakfast buffet. It is perfect for families or groups who want to enjoy comfort and convenience. [VIEW HOTEL]
How to get in Vienna, Austria?
Vienna is well-connected by air, rail, road, and river to other parts of Austria and Europe. Here are some of the best ways to get there:
Vienna, Austria, By plane
Vienna International Airport is located about 20 kilometers (12 miles) southeast of the city center and serves as a hub for Austrian Airlines and other carriers. You can take a train (S-Bahn or City Airport Train), a bus (Vienna Airport Lines or Flixbus), a taxi (fixed fare), or an Uber to reach the city center.
By train
Vienna has several train stations that connect it to major cities in Austria and neighboring countries. The main station is Wien Hauptbahnhof (Vienna Central Station), which offers direct connections to Berlin, Munich, Zurich, Budapest, Prague, and more. You can take the subway (U-Bahn), tram (Strassenbahn), bus (Autobus), or taxi to get around the city.
By car
Vienna, the capital of Austria, is well connected by a network of main highways that make it easy to access by car. The A1, A2, A4 and A23 are the main routes that lead to the city center from different directions. The A1 connects Vienna with Salzburg and Linz, the A2 with Graz and Klagenfurt, the A4 with Budapest and Bratislava, and the A23 with Prague and Brno. Drivers should be aware of the traffic rules and regulations in Austria, such as speed limits, tolls, parking zones and environmental stickers.
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