Discover the heart of Europe in our Vienna Travel Guide! Plan your dream trip today and uncover its history, culture, and more!

1. VIENNA TRAVEL GUIDE: 8 TOP ATTRACTIONS IN
AUSTRIA’S ELEGANT CULTURAL CAPITAL
The beauty of Vienna, Austria can be seen in its stunning buildings, its rich history, and heard in
its concert halls, opera houses, and churches throughout the city.
The city is known for its grand palaces, beautiful churches, rich history, world-class museums,
and, of course, its classical music heritage. The birthplace of the waltz and home to composers
such as Mozart, Beethoven, Haydn, and Schubert, it is the undisputed cultural center of Austria.
From landmarks like Schönbrunn Palace, The Hofburg, the Vienna State Opera, the
Kunsthistorisches Museum, and so much more, there’s no shortage of history, beauty, and
culture in this city.
VIENNA TRAVEL GUIDE

2. TOP ATTRACTIONS
SCHÖNBRUNN PALACE
Once the summer residence of the Habsburg rulers, Schönbrunn Palace is a magnificent Baroque
palace that is now a popular tourist attraction. It is known for its stunning architecture, beautiful
gardens, and rich history. The interior of the palace is opulent, with lavish furnishings and
intricate details. You can explore the Grand Gallery adorned with frescoes and crystal
chandeliers and the museum showcasing many artifacts and artworks. The sprawling gardens
surrounding the palace are meticulously landscaped and offer breathtaking views.

3. THE HOFBURG
The Hofburg is a historic palace complex that served as the official residence of the
Habsburg dynasty, rulers of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, for over 600 years. The
palace complex is a magnificent example of Baroque and Rococo architecture, with
stunning details and grandeur in every corner. It consists of multiple buildings, including
the Imperial Apartments, the Sisi Museum, the Hofburg Treasury, and the Spanish
Riding School. The Hofburg also houses various museums and institutions, making it a
cultural hub in Vienna.

4. WIENER STAATSOPER
One of the most prestigious opera houses in the world, the Vienna Opera House, also
known as the Wiener Staatsoper, is an architectural masterpiece known for its stunning
beauty and exceptional performances. Its grand facade and intricate detailing are
stunning. Inside, it boasts a lavish interior with luxurious seating and opulent decor. The
acoustics of the venue are considered to be among the best in the world.

5. BELVEDERE PALACE
Belvedere Palace is a magnificent architectural masterpiece comprised of two Baroque-
style palaces, the Upper Belvedere and the Lower Belvedere, which are connected by
beautiful gardens. The palace complex was built in the 18th century as a summer
residence for Prince Eugene of Savoy. Today, it serves as a museum that showcases
an impressive collection of Austrian art, including works by Gustav Klimt. The Upper
Belvedere is particularly famous for housing Klimt's iconic painting, “The Kiss.”

6. ST. STEPHEN'S CATHEDRAL
St. Stephen's Cathedral, located in the heart of Vienna, is a magnificent structure that
stands as a testament to the city's rich history and architectural beauty. This Gothic
masterpiece has been a prominent landmark in Vienna for centuries, with its towering
spires and intricate details captivating visitors from all over the world.
The cathedral's exterior is adorned with stunning stained glass windows and ornate
stone carvings, while its interior boasts a grand nave and awe-inspiring altarpieces. As
one of Vienna's most iconic landmarks, St. Stephen's Cathedral serves not only as a
place of worship but also as a symbol of the city's cultural heritage.

7. ST CHARLES CHURCH
St Charles Church, also known as Karlskirche, is a magnificent baroque church
designed by the renowned architect Johann Bernhard Fischer von Erlach and
completed in 1739. The church is dedicated to St. Charles Borromeo, a revered saint of
the Catholic Church.
Its massive dome, standing at 72 meters tall, dominates the Vienna skyline. The façade
is adorned with intricate sculptures and elegant columns, showcasing the grandeur of
baroque architecture.
Inside the church, you are greeted by the stunning frescoes on the dome ceiling,
painted by Johann Michael Rottmayr. These intricate and vibrant paintings depict
scenes from the life of St. Charles Borromeo and are considered masterpieces of
baroque art.
The church houses a magnificent altar designed by Fischer von Erlach with beautiful
sculptures and elaborate details, creating a truly awe-inspiring focal point within the
church.
St Charles Church hosts various concerts throughout the year, showcasing classical
music in this remarkable setting.

8. THE HUNDERTWASSERHAUS
The Hundertwasserhaus is quite a unique architectural piece that stands out among the
traditional buildings in the city. Designed by the Austrian artist Friedensreich
Hundertwasser, this residential complex is characterized by its vibrant colors, irregular
shapes, and incorporation of nature elements.
The building features undulating floors, uneven windows, and a roof covered in grass
and trees. Each apartment has its own distinct design, with no straight lines or angles.
The Hundertwasserhaus is an example of Hundertwasser's philosophy of “architecture
for humans,” which emphasizes the connection between people, nature, and art. It is
very much an unconventional design and a unique artistic expression.

9. MUSICAL PERFORMANCES
Known worldwide as the “City of Music,” you must attend at least one musical
performance during your visit to Vienna. From grand opera houses to intimate concert
halls, Vienna offers a wide range of venues to enjoy a diverse selection of musical
genres, including classical, jazz, and contemporary.
 DESTINATIONS
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VIENNA TRAVEL GUIDE: 8 TOP ATTRACTIONS IN
AUSTRIA’S ELEGANT CULTURAL CAPITAL
In Austria / Destinations / Europe / Planning

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The beauty of Vienna, Austria can be seen in its stunning buildings, its rich history, and heard in
its concert halls, opera houses, and churches throughout the city.
The city is known for its grand palaces, beautiful churches, rich history, world-class museums,
and, of course, its classical music heritage. The birthplace of the waltz and home to composers
such as Mozart, Beethoven, Haydn, and Schubert, it is the undisputed cultural center of Austria.

11. From landmarks like Schönbrunn Palace, The Hofburg, the Vienna State Opera, the
Kunsthistorisches Museum, and so much more, there’s no shortage of history, beauty, and
culture in this city.
VIENNA TRAVEL GUIDE
TOP ATTRACTIONS

12. SCHÖNBRUNN PALACE
Once the summer residence of the Habsburg rulers, Schönbrunn Palace is a magnificent Baroque
palace that is now a popular tourist attraction. It is known for its stunning architecture, beautiful
gardens, and rich history. The interior of the palace is opulent, with lavish furnishings and
intricate details. You can explore the Grand Gallery adorned with frescoes and crystal
chandeliers and the museum showcasing many artifacts and artworks. The sprawling gardens
surrounding the palace are meticulously landscaped and offer breathtaking views.

13. THE HOFBURG
The Hofburg is a historic palace complex that served as the official residence of the Habsburg
dynasty, rulers of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, for over 600 years. The palace complex is a
magnificent example of Baroque and Rococo architecture, with stunning details and grandeur in
every corner. It consists of multiple buildings, including the Imperial Apartments, the Sisi
Museum, the Hofburg Treasury, and the Spanish Riding School. The Hofburg also houses
various museums and institutions, making it a cultural hub in Vienna.

14. WIENER STAATSOPER
One of the most prestigious opera houses in the world, the Vienna Opera House, also known as
the Wiener Staatsoper, is an architectural masterpiece known for its stunning beauty and
exceptional performances. Its grand facade and intricate detailing are stunning. Inside, it boasts a
lavish interior with luxurious seating and opulent decor. The acoustics of the venue are
considered to be among the best in the world.
Related:
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15. BELVEDERE PALACE
Belvedere Palace is a magnificent architectural masterpiece comprised of two Baroque-style
palaces, the Upper Belvedere and the Lower Belvedere, which are connected by beautiful
gardens. The palace complex was built in the 18th century as a summer residence for Prince
Eugene of Savoy. Today, it serves as a museum that showcases an impressive collection of
Austrian art, including works by Gustav Klimt. The Upper Belvedere is particularly famous for
housing Klimt's iconic painting, “The Kiss.”

16. ST. STEPHEN'S CATHEDRAL
St. Stephen's Cathedral, located in the heart of Vienna, is a magnificent structure that stands as a
testament to the city's rich history and architectural beauty. This Gothic masterpiece has been a
prominent landmark in Vienna for centuries, with its towering spires and intricate details
captivating visitors from all over the world.
The cathedral's exterior is adorned with stunning stained glass windows and ornate stone
carvings, while its interior boasts a grand nave and awe-inspiring altarpieces. As one of Vienna's
most iconic landmarks, St. Stephen's Cathedral serves not only as a place of worship but also as a
symbol of the city's cultural heritage.

17. ST CHARLES CHURCH
St Charles Church, also known as Karlskirche, is a magnificent baroque church designed by the
renowned architect Johann Bernhard Fischer von Erlach and completed in 1739. The church is
dedicated to St. Charles Borromeo, a revered saint of the Catholic Church.
Its massive dome, standing at 72 meters tall, dominates the Vienna skyline. The façade is
adorned with intricate sculptures and elegant columns, showcasing the grandeur of baroque
architecture.
Inside the church, you are greeted by the stunning frescoes on the dome ceiling, painted by
Johann Michael Rottmayr. These intricate and vibrant paintings depict scenes from the life of St.
Charles Borromeo and are considered masterpieces of baroque art.
The church houses a magnificent altar designed by Fischer von Erlach with beautiful sculptures
and elaborate details, creating a truly awe-inspiring focal point within the church.
St Charles Church hosts various concerts throughout the year, showcasing classical music in this
remarkable setting.

18. THE HUNDERTWASSERHAUS
The Hundertwasserhaus is quite a unique architectural piece that stands out among the traditional
buildings in the city. Designed by the Austrian artist Friedensreich Hundertwasser, this
residential complex is characterized by its vibrant colors, irregular shapes, and incorporation of
nature elements.
The building features undulating floors, uneven windows, and a roof covered in grass and trees.
Each apartment has its own distinct design, with no straight lines or angles. The
Hundertwasserhaus is an example of Hundertwasser's philosophy of “architecture for humans,”
which emphasizes the connection between people, nature, and art. It is very much an
unconventional design and a unique artistic expression.

19. MUSICAL PERFORMANCES
Known worldwide as the “City of Music,” you must attend at least one musical performance
during your visit to Vienna. From grand opera houses to intimate concert halls, Vienna offers a
wide range of venues to enjoy a diverse selection of musical genres, including classical, jazz, and
contemporary.
Related:
Paris Travel Guide: 11 Must-See Attractions in the Incredible City of Lights
Rome Travel Guide: Uncovering the Timeless Beauty of Italy's Eternal City

20. MUSEUMS
Natural History Museum
KUNSTHISTORISCHES MUSEUM
Of the many museums in Vienna, one of the most notable is the Kunsthistorisches
Museum, which houses an extensive collection of artwork and artifacts acquired by the
Habsburgs from ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome, as well as masterpieces by
renowned artists such as Vermeer, Rembrandt, and Rubens.
THE ALBERTINA
The Albertina boasts an impressive collection of drawings, prints, and photographs and
hosts temporary exhibitions featuring works by contemporary artists.
JEWISH MUSEUM
The Jewish Museum showcases the history and contributions of the Jewish community
in Vienna. With a vast collection of artifacts, documents, and artworks, this museum
provides a comprehensive insight into the Jewish culture and its influence on Vienna's
society.

21. BEETHOVEN MUSEUM
The Beethoven Museum is dedicated to the life and works of the legendary composer
Ludwig van Beethoven. Located in the house where Beethoven once lived, this
museum offers visitors a chance to explore his personal belongings, musical
instruments, and original manuscripts. It is a must-visit for music enthusiasts and
anyone interested in delving deeper into the life of this iconic figure.
THE WELTMUSEUM
The Weltmuseum offers a unique perspective on global cultures. Formerly known as the
Museum of Ethnology, this institution houses an extensive collection of ethnographic
artifacts from all around the world. From ancient African masks to intricate Asian
textiles, you can experience the diversity and richness of various cultures through these
exhibits.
NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM
The Natural History Museum houses an extensive collection of exhibits related to the
natural world. From dinosaur skeletons to meteorites and gemstones, this museum
offers a unique opportunity to explore the wonders of the earth and its history. With
interactive displays and informative presentations, you can delve into the fascinating
world of natural history.
SISI MUSEUM
The Sisi Museum is dedicated to Empress Elisabeth of Austria, affectionately known as
Sisi. This museum offers a glimpse into the life and legacy of one of Austria's most
iconic figures. Visitors can explore Sisi's personal possessions, including her clothing,
jewelry, and even her beauty secrets. The museum provides a fascinating insight into
the life of this enigmatic empress and the impact she had on Austrian history.
LEOPOLD MUSEUM
The Leopold Museum houses an impressive collection of modern Austrian art, including
works by renowned artists such as Gustav Klimt and Egon Schiele. With its diverse
range of paintings, sculptures, and graphic artworks, the Leopold Museum offers a
comprehensive overview of the Austrian art scene from the late 19th century to the
present day.

22. HAUS DER MUSIK
The House of Music (Haus Der Music) is an interactive museum that celebrates the rich
musical tradition of Austria and provides a unique experience for visitors of all ages.
From learning about famous composers such as Mozart and Beethoven to
experimenting with different musical instruments, it offers a hands-on exploration of the
world of sound.
THEATERS
SCHLOSSTHEATER SCHÖNBRUNN
Vienna is home to a multitude of theatres that showcase a wide range of performances.
One notable theatre is the Schönbrunn Palace Theater. Located within the magnificent
Schönbrunn Palace complex, this historic theatre was originally used as a private
theatre for the royal court. Today, it hosts various concerts, operas, and ballets,
attracting both locals and tourists. It is known for its exceptional acoustics, making it a
favorite among performers and audiences.

23. RAIMUND THEATER
The Raimund Theater is named after the Austrian playwright Ferdinand Raimund.
Located in the Mariahilf district of the city, this modern theatre is known for hosting
large-scale musical productions and has a seating capacity of over 1,000. It is a popular
choice for both local and international productions, offering a diverse range of shows
that cater to different tastes and preferences.
DRACHENGASSE THEATER
Vienna also boasts smaller, more intimate venues such as the Drachengasse Theater.
Situated in the heart of the city, this cozy theater focuses on promoting innovative and
experimental performances. It provides a platform for emerging artists to showcase their
talent and offers a unique and intimate theater-going experience for audiences. With its
diverse lineup of contemporary plays, this theater has gained a reputation as a hub for
cutting-edge theatrical productions.
THEATRE AN DER WIEN
Theatre an der Wien is a historic theatre has a long-standing tradition of showcasing
opera and musical performances. It has a capacity of over 1,000 seats and is known for
its stunning architecture and acoustics. The Theat an der Wien has hosted numerous
world premieres and continues to attract both local and international audiences.
BURGTHEATER
The Burgtheater is a prestigious institution and is considered one of the most important
German-language theatres in the world. With a seating capacity of over 1,000, the
Burgtheater offers a diverse repertoire ranging from classical plays to contemporary
works. Its grand facade and opulent interiors add to the overall allure of the theatre.
VOLKSTHEATER
Volkstheater focuses on contemporary and experimental productions. This dynamic
venue aims to push boundaries and challenge traditional theatrical conventions. With its
modern architecture and innovative programming, the Volkstheater attracts a younger
and more adventurous crowd.
BRUT
The Brut is a renowned independent theatre in Vienna that specializes in experimental
and avant-garde performances. This small yet influential venue showcases cutting-edge
plays and interdisciplinary works that push the boundaries of traditional theatre. With its

24. intimate setting and emphasis on innovative storytelling, the Brut offers a unique
theatrical experience for those seeking something outside the mainstream.
VIENNESE CUISINE
Cafe Central

25. Vienna has a diverse local cuisine offering a tantalizing array of traditional dishes that reflect the
country's history and cultural influences. One popular dish that you’ll see everywhere is Wiener
Schnitzel, a breaded and fried veal cutlet served with lemon wedges. There’s
also tafelspitz which is boiled beef served with horseradish sauce and various side dishes.
You’ll also find an array of delectable pastries and desserts, including Sachertorte, a famous
Viennese chocolate cake, and Apfelstrudel. These pastries are typically made with high-quality
ingredients and are a perfect accompaniment to a cup of Viennese coffee.
Speaking of coffee, Vienna has a rich coffee culture with numerous traditional coffee houses
dotted throughout the city. These coffee houses offer a wide variety of coffee preparations, such
as the popular Melange or Einspänner.
Cafe Central is a nice stop for an afternoon snack with a coffee or a cocktail or for a delicious
meal. We visited a few times!
WHERE TO STAY
Innere Stadt is in the historic center of Vienna and is filled with beautiful buildings, cultural
landmarks, and has a vibrant atmosphere. If you want to be in the middle of it all this is the place
to stay.

26. While not in the very center, these other areas are good too. You can get to the city center by
walking or within about 10 minutes using public transportation.
Leopoldstadt is adjacent to Innere Stadt and is known for its trendy cafes, hipster boutiques, and
the famous Prater amusement park.
For a more upscale experience, the district of Wieden offers a mix of elegant residential streets,
upscale dining options, and proximity to the Belvedere Palace.
Neubau is a trendy neighborhood known for its artsy vibes, independent galleries, and a variety
of trendy shops and eateries. This is where we stayed. It had a grocery store nearby and plenty of
restaurants, and we were able to walk nearly everywhere.
TRANSPORTATION
Vienna's compact size and well-maintained sidewalks make it easy to explore on foot, and I
always recommend walking when possible. We walked everywhere except a few times we took
the tram which was fine except very hot— no air.

27. There is an efficient public transportation system, which includes buses, trams, and the U-Bahn
(subway). The U-Bahn is particularly convenient and well-connected, with lines that reach all
corners of the city.
TICKETS
I recommend getting bundle tickets from GoCity, especially if it's your first trip and you are
planning to visit many of the main tourist sites. It will almost always save money. Just be sure to
check the things you want to see, and compare the prices each way to be certain. We have used
this in several cities around the world.
Tickets can also be purchased at the entrance for some attractions, but I recommend that you get
any that you know you don't want to miss in advance. Some can also be purchased at some of the
following sites:
GetYourGuide – I use this probably more than any other to purchase tickets. It's good for
attraction tickets, tours, cruises, day trips, etc. Their app is very easy to use, I can show the
tickets on my phone at the door, it allows us to skip the lines, almost everything is refundable
until the day before, and the tickets are usually the same or almost the same price as getting them
directly from the attraction’s website. It’s also in English which makes it much easier than
reading some websites that have been translated from other languages.
Tiqets, TripAdvisor and Viator are very similar to GetYourGuide. I use them as well.
Individual attraction websites – I only purchase tickets on an individual attraction’s website if
that is the only place to purchase them. The languages don’t always translate well, so they are
sometimes hard to read. They are also rarely refundable.
CURRENCY
The national currency in Austria is the Euro (€). Click here to get the daily conversion.
HOW WE SAVE MONEY
Flights
This trip was planned a little more last-minute than most of our trips. We had a trip planned in
March of 2022, but because I had to have an unexpected surgery we were forced to cancel the
trip. (*I used our travel insurance that we had with our Chase Sapphire Reserve credit card, and
got ALL of our money back!)
It seemed that I'd be fine by May, so I planned this trip in April for the next month!

28. I got pretty lucky and found flights from Jackson, MS (our home airport) to Madrid, Spain for
$401.78 round-trip per person. I found them by setting alerts on Google Flights. But– I also
searched often during that time for flights (since I was lying on the couch for weeks). We then
flew from Madrid to Vienna on Ryanair for $45.86 round-trip per person.
We never pay to check luggage. We take rolling carry-on and a backpack if a carry-on is
included on all flights for the trip. If a carry-on is not included on some of our flights we just
take a backpack. Yes, we take just a backpack on a 2-week trip to Europe! See how we do it!