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48 Must-See Things to Do in Vienna

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Updated: April 19, 2023

Vienna is the capital and largest city of Austria. It is one of the oldest cities in Europe, with a rich cultural and historical heritage dating back to the Neolithic period.

The city is known for its stunning architecture, including Baroque palaces and Gothic cathedrals, and for its cultural institutions, such as its world-renowned opera houses, theaters, and museums.

It's also known for being the birthplace of many classical composers, including Mozart, Beethoven, and Strauss.

With its picturesque parks, charming street cafes, and world-renowned museums, Vienna attracts millions of visitors each year.

This post lists interesting activities and attractions tourists can enjoy throughout the year, including family-friendly ideas, fun after dark, and free things to do.

If you’re looking for more details about how to get around the city, how to save money, or how to learn about the history of Vienna, make sure to check some of the following posts:


How Long Is Needed for a Visit

The length of time it takes to visit Vienna depends on your personal interests, preferences, and travel style. A typical stay in Vienna can range from a few days to a week or more.

If you are interested in experiencing the city's cultural and historical heritage, you may want to allow more time to visit Vienna's many museums, art galleries, and historical sites.

Free Walking Tours Vienna

A one-day itinerary might include a visit to St. Stephen's Cathedral, the Imperial Palace, the Museum of Fine Arts, and a concert or opera performance in the evening.

If you are a food lover, you may want to spend more time exploring Vienna's dining scene and trying the city's famous pastries and coffee. 

Additionally, if you are interested in outdoor activities, you can visit one of Vienna's many parks and gardens, such as the Schönbrunn Palace Gardens, or take a stroll along the Danube River.

Ultimately, the amount of time you choose to spend in Vienna will depend on your interests and the amount of time you have available for your trip.

Visit our 3-day itinerary here.


1. Attend a Concert

The city of Vienna attracts hundreds of notable musical artists each year representing a wide range of genres.

If you’re a pop music fan, keep an eye on the calendar for the following stadiums and venues:

If you’re more interested in classical music, consider visiting Musikverein for orchestral performances.

Check this list of concerts in Vienna to see what will be available while you’re visiting this historic city.


2. Visit Schönbrunn Palace

Much like Hofburg Palace, this is one of the most historic locations in Vienna and there are many beautiful things to see and do while you’re here.

Not only is Schönbrunn Palace a prime example of baroque architecture, but it is also the site of the Orangery, Privy Garden and maze, the Imperial Carriage Museum, and even the Schönbrunn Zoo.

Tickets for the grand tour are included at a discount with some tourist passes, making it easy to save some money during your trip to Vienna.

Alternatively, you can purchase admission to Schönbrunn Palace separately as well.


3. Ride the Vienna Ferris Wheel

At nearly 65 meters tall, it’ll be difficult to miss the giant Wiener Riesenrad (German for ‘Giant Wheel’) at the entrance of the Prater amusement park.

Although it was originally erected to celebrate the Golden Jubilee of Emperor Franz Josef I in 1897, it is still in operation to this very day.

If you want to ride one of the biggest, earliest Ferris wheels ever made, this is the place to go.

It’s definitely one of the most family-friendly attractions in Vienna.

Purchase tickets or learn more.


4. Take a Sightseeing Tour

There are several different types of tours available in Vienna that will take you to some of the most notable and historic locations in the city.

One of the easiest and most affordable options is to take a free walking tour

Alternatively, you can also take a hop-on hop-off bus tour which includes both commentary and transportation to and from many popular locations.

In addition to these outings, you can also take a sightseeing boat tour around the city!


5. Save Money With a Tourist Pass

If you’re planning to visit a lot of notable landmarks while visiting Vienna, it might make sense to purchase a tourist pass so you can save a few euros off general admission prices.

There are currently three different types of passes in Vienna: all-inclusive, set number of attractions, and travel discount passes.

The all-inclusive pass typically offers the best opportunity to save money, with dozens of different attractions included over the course of a specific amount of time (1, 2, 3, or 6 days).

Alternatively, the set number of attractions pass allows you to pay one flat price for 3, 4, or 5 different activities.

Finally, the travel discount pass covers the price of public transport for 24, 48 or 72 hours at a time. In addition to paying for travel, this pass also includes additional discounts of 10% - 50% off popular attractions.

Here are a few of the most popular attractions included with these tourist passes:  

  • Hop on Hop off Bus Tour | €29
  • Schönbrunn Palace Grand Tour | €26,50
  • Hofburg Imperial Palace | €15
  • Kunsthistorisches Museum | €16
  • City Cruises Vienna | €23
  • Schönbrunn Zoo | €20
  • Madame Tussauds | €24
  • Vienna Ferris Wheel | €12
  • Leopold Museum | €14
  • Danube Tower | €14,50
  • Belvedere | €22
  • And more!

For additional information about how to use these services, please read our post about Vienna tourist passes.


6. Visit the Spanish Riding School

Catch a glimpse into the Lipizzanerstables at the Stallburg and then take a tour of the Winter Riding School.

Embark on a special architecture route with over 170 steps. Look out over the stunning Baroque roof construction and take in views of Vienna.

Tickets are already pretty affordable at just €15, but if you want to save some money on admission, keep in mind that this attraction is included with some tourist passes.

Alternatively, you can purchase tickets here.


7. See the Imperial Treasury

This is one of the most notable and important chambers in the world, housing several treasures of the Habsburgs including the Austrian Imperial Crown and the crown jewels of the Holy Roman Empire.

Whether you’re a history buff or you just want to see some of the most beautiful treasures in all of Austria, this is one site you simply must visit!

As with many other notable sites, you could potentially save money on admission to this landmark by using a tourist pass.

Purchase Imperial Treasury tickets or learn more.


8. Visit an Art Museum

As with most major cities, Vienna is home to several excellent art museums.

One of the best examples is the Belvedere, which hosts perhaps the most important collection of Austrian art dating from the middle ages to the present day.

Alternatively, you may also want to check out the Kunsthistoriches museum to see artistic works dating back from ancient Egypt to the 18th century!

For even more unique and historic artwork, head to the Leopold Museum for a variety of different styles and movements such as Viennese Art Nouveau, Expressionism, and Modernism.

The Albertina is another notable location housing a permanent exhibition of Monet-Picasso. You’ll also have the opportunity to visit the Habsburg state apartments and see several other exhibits!

Each of these art museums is included at a discount with at least one Vienna tourist pass, allowing you to save money on admission prices.

Note that the area of the city called Museumsquartier (the Museum Quarter) has the following museums: Kunsthalle Wein (Contemporary Art Museum), Architekturzentrum Wien (architecture museum), MUMOK (Museum of Contemporary Art), ZOOM (children's museum), and the Leopold Museum.


9. Visit a Coffee House

If you need a break, drop into a Viennese coffee house and experience a culture that you won’t find anywhere else in the world.

With a history dating back to 1683, coffee houses in this city have developed many of their own traditions over the years.

For instance, waiters will almost always serve a glass of water with each cup of coffee, and many coffee houses look more like a pub with pool tables and card games on hand.

Many Viennese people treat the coffee house as something of a home away from home, so it’s a perfect place to rest after a long day of sightseeing.

Best of all, the price of admission is a cup of coffee.


10. Go to St. Stephen’s Cathedral

Arguably one of the most historic buildings in all of Vienna, this 12th-century gothic church definitely stands out in the city as one of its finest landmarks.

Not only was this the location where Mozart was once married, but it was also the final resting place of many Viennese people. See the next entry for more details.

You can climb the towers here. There are 343 steps up the South Tower. At the top is the Watch Room where you can find amazing views of the city.

The North Tower has a lift and features the Pummerin Bell, the largest and heaviest bell in Austria. Some folks believe the view is better from here, looking out over the tiled roof of the church.

Whether you’re interested in the history of Vienna or you just want to see some of the best architecture in the city, St. Stephen’s Cathedral is a must-see.


11. Climb Down Into The Catacombs of St. Stephen's Cathedral

St. Stephen's Cathedral Catacombs are a series of underground burial chambers located beneath St. Stephen's Cathedral.

The catacombs were used as a cemetery from the 12th to the 18th centuries and contain the remains of around 11,000 people, including royalty, bishops, and other prominent citizens of Vienna. There are urns, caskets, statues, and bones. Lots and lots of bones.

Some notable individuals buried there include: 

  • Saint Rupert, the patron saint of Salzburg and a prominent figure in the early Christianization of Austria
  • Prince Eugene of Savoy, a military commander, and statesman who played a major role in the wars against the Ottoman Empire in the late 17th and early 18th centuries
  • Matthias Lorraine, a bishop and prince-bishop of Vienna who served in the late 16th and early 17th centuries
  • Leopold I, Holy Roman Emperor and the first ruler of the Habsburg dynasty

They are considered to be one of the largest and most well-preserved collections of medieval crypts in Europe. The catacombs feature a variety of architectural styles, including Gothic and Renaissance, and are decorated with frescoes, sculptures, and other works of art.


12. Take the Kids to Schönbrunn Zoo

If you’re looking for some more family-friendly activities, this Schönbrunn, the world's oldest zoo, is probably one of the best options in all of Vienna.

After all, how many kids do you know who don’t like visiting the zoo?

In addition to all of the beautiful animals on display, fans of architecture are sure to appreciate the fact that this is the oldest Baroque zoo in the world.

One of the most popular exhibits is their panda pen, which currently houses two or the only giant pandas in all of Europe.

Tickets can be purchased online or you can also get admission at a discount by using a tourist pass.


13. Go on a Ghost Tour

Vienna is quite old, so it shouldn’t surprise you to know that many people have reported some creepy experiences throughout the years.

There are also several myths, legends, and disturbing stories behind this city.

You can learn about all of these subjects on a Ghosts and Legends night tour which includes sites such as Hofburg Palace and Neuer Markt.

If you’re looking for something fun to do after dark, this ghost tour is suitable for kids as young as 10, making this a family-friendly activity.

Purchase tickets or learn more.


14. Visit a Family-Friendly Museum

In addition to all the art history museums that you’ll find in Vienna, there are also several locations you can visit that will probably be a bit better suited to family audiences.

For example, you can go to Madame Tussauds, a wax museum that has become internationally recognized for its excellence.

If you’re going with older kids, consider visiting the Museum of Illusions instead.

With several exhibits allowing you to experience some of the most mind-bending illusions imaginable, this is sure to be a hit with most families.

Alternatively, parents with younger children may want to take them to Kaiser Kinder – a children’s museum with plenty of fun and educational activities they can enjoy.

Tickets for some of these museums can be obtained at a discount by using a tourist pass.


15. Check Out Some Vienna Street Art

In addition to all the classic and modern art museums in this city, there is also a vibrant street art scene that you can get a glimpse of for free in several locations all around Vienna.

The best example is the Street Art Passage, which leads to the Museumsquartier and features a wide variety of artwork including references to several pop culture icons.

If you’re near the Danube Canal, make sure to take a look at the walls in this area for even more fabulous graffiti art.

The easiest way to experience all the most interesting artwork is simply to take a guided Vienna street art tour, as a tour guide will know all the best spots in the city.

There are many other interesting places to see the often impressive work of street artists, and you can find out more about them in this guide to Viennese street art.


16. Enjoy a Horse Drawn Carriage Ride

With so many historic sites to see in Vienna, what better way to experience them all than while taking a ride in a classic horse-drawn carriage?

These carriage rides include a sightseeing tour through the city centre, introducing you to the area and teaching you about notable landmarks.

While this isn’t an inexpensive activity, you can expect to pay around €60-€100 for a group of 4 people, or around €15-€25 per person.

Needless to say, it makes sense to enjoy this with as many people as possible.

This could easily be a good family activity, but you may also want to consider a carriage ride for a date night!

Purchase tickets or learn more.


17. Take the Kids to Prater Theme Park

In addition to the giant Ferris wheel, Prater Theme Park features more than 250 extra attractions you can enjoy.

With indoor and outdoor roller coasters, free fall towers, and even aquatic rides, you probably won’t have much trouble finding something to do while you’re here!

Admission to the park is free, but rides are ticketed. If you want to get a few tickets ahead of time, consider picking up the Prater Package with admission to 5 rides for around €20.

This is an ideal activity for families of all ages, as there are rides designed for both young and old.

Check the Prater amusement park website for more details.


18. Visit the Danube Tower

If you want to get a good view of Vienna, there’s no better place than the tallest landmark in the city.

During nice, sunny days, you can see for miles from the outdoor terrace at the top of the Danube Tower.

No matter what the weather is like, chances are you’ll still be able to enjoy the indoor view from the top.

There is also a nice cafe and restaurant where you can grab a snack while you’re there.

Admission to this site is included on many tourist passes, allowing you to save a few euros on tickets.

Purchase tickets for the Danube Tower.


19. Spend Some Time at Donaupark

This huge public park is the site of the Danube Tower, and it’s a wonderful place to spend some time looking around at all the gardens in this area.

Donaupark is home to several free attractions, including a skate park, tennis areas, and even a miniature train that goes around the perimeter.

In addition to all these locations, you can also enjoy a nice picnic here, as there is plenty of green space to sit with friends or family and get a bite to eat.


20. Go on a Pub Crawl

If you’re looking for something fun to do after dark, consider taking a break to learn more about the fantastic pubs in the city by going on a pub crawl.

There are a variety of pub crawls offered in Vienna, including some which cover the best-known locations and others that will take you to the underground clubs and lesser-known spots.

Regardless of which option you choose, you’ll have the opportunity to try some free drinks and/or save money with drink specials.


21. Take a Walk Around the Ringstrasse

Some of the most important sites in Vienna are located in Vienna’s historic centre, and you can find them along the circular boulevard known as Ringstrasse.

The following historic landmarks can be found along this road:

  • Hofburg Palace
  • Stock Exchange
  • The Rathaus
  • Parliament
  • Art History Museum
  • Natural History Museum

While a few of these sites may offer free admission, you can also use a tourist pass to save money on tickets for the museums and other popular locations in the area.


22. Go Shopping at Naschmarkt

Whether you just want to grab a few things to eat or you’re looking for souvenirs to bring home after your trip to Vienna, Naschmarkt is the place to visit.

This is one of the most popular markets in the city, and you’ll find roughly 120 different market stands here selling all kinds of items.

It won’t cost you anything to visit Naschmarkt, but you’ll probably want to bring some money along just in case you find something you want to purchase!


23. Visit Hofburg Palace

This is definitely one of the most popular landmarks in Vienna, and it currently houses several notable things to see such as the Imperial Apartments, the Imperial Silver Collection, the Sisi Museum amongst others.

The office of the Austrian President is also in Hofburg.

Best of all, admission to this historic location is included with some tourist passes, allowing you to save a lot of money on tickets.

General admission includes access to pretty much all of the exhibits and collections in Hofburg Palace, so it’s almost like you’re getting multiple tickets for one price!


24.  Learn About the Great Artists of Vienna

Many of the most beloved artists throughout history once called this city their home, and there are several locations in Vienna where you can learn all about them.

Fans of classical music might want to see the house where Ludwig van Beethoven once lived, the apartment of Johann Strauss, the birthplace of Franz Schubert, and more.

Beethoven House in Vienna

If you’re more interested in architecture, you could head to the Otto Wagner Pavillon. You’ll also find perhaps the most significant collections of Austrian art at the Leopold Museum.

Admission to each of these locations is included at a discount with at least one Vienna tourist pass.


25. Take the Family to the House of Music

Although this museum is suited to visitors of all ages, they offer tours aimed specifically at kids during the weekends. These tours introduce children to several kinds of music and sounds.

In addition to learning about musical history, they’ll also have a chance to see animals dancing along to some music during a zoo concert!

While you’re at the museum, you’ll have the chance to learn about famous composers such as Mozart and Beethoven, discover more about Vienna Philharmonics, and experience a multimedia opera.

You can purchase tickets to the House of Music or use a tourist pass to get discounted admission to this location.


26. Play a Self-Guided Exploration Game

This is an excellent alternative to the traditional walking tour, giving you the opportunity to solve a puzzle as you explore the city at your own leisure and experience Vienna from a different perspective.

There are currently three exploration games available in Vienna with unique and interesting subjects.


27. Attend the Vienna State Opera

The Vienna State Opera, also simply known as the Vienna Opera, is one of the world's most famous and prestigious opera houses. It is located in the heart of Vienna and is considered one of the city's most iconic landmarks.

The Vienna Opera was built in the mid-19th century and was designed in the neo-Renaissance style. It is known for its stunning marble staircase, ornate chandeliers, and plush red velvet seating.

The company has a strong tradition of musical excellence and is renowned for its superb orchestral performances, choral singing, and top-notch soloists taking place in an auditorium with great acoustics.

Whenever the Vienna Hofburg Orchestra performs, they usually play compositions from such notable performers as Mozart, Strauss, Lehár, and Kálmán.

This is an exclusive performance, so you can expect tickets to sell out well in advance. If you’re interested in attending the concert, make sure to get your ticket as soon as possible.

Purchase tickets for the Vienna State Opera or learn more.


28. Visit Belvedere Palace

The Belvedere Palace, a magnificent example of Baroque architecture, is a complex of buildings that include two palaces, a new contemporary art museum, an orangery, stables, and extensive manicured French gardens with statues and fountains.

The Palace was built between 1712 and 1723 as a summer residence for Prince Eugene of Savoy. In 1776 the Imperial Picture Gallery was moved there, becoming one of the world’s first public museums. 

The Upper Belvedere showcases Austrian art from the Middle Ages to the 18th century. It is particularly famous for its collection of Austrian Baroque paintings, as well as its works by Austrian artists.

Some of the notable works in the museum include Klimt's "The Kiss," "Judith," and "Portrait of Adele Bloch-Bauer I", Schiele's "Self-Portrait with Raised Shoulder" and Kokoschka's "The Tempest."

In fact, the museum has the largest collection of Klimt's paintings in the world.

The Lower Belvedere focuses on art from the 19th and 20th centuries. The museum's collection includes works by French Impressionists and Austrian modernists, including Monet, Degas, Renoir, Schiele, and Kokoschka.

It also features contemporary art, including works by Pablo Picasso, Joan Miró, and Salvador Dalí. Temporary exhibits are housed in the Lower Belvedere and the Orangery 

Belvedere 21 is dedicated to contemporary art and features exhibitions and works by international artists, with a focus on Austrian and Eastern European artists.

It is known for its innovative exhibitions, educational programs, and events, and has established itself as a leading platform for contemporary art in Vienna.

The museum is open to the public and admission is charged. Visitors can expect to see a wide range of modern and contemporary art, including paintings, sculptures, installations, and other forms of media.

The former Palace Stables have been converted into exhibition spaces and are used to host a variety of events, including contemporary art exhibitions, concerts, and performances.

The stables also feature a café and a gift shop, providing visitors with a place to relax and purchase souvenirs.

Tickets can be found on some discount passes, or you can purchase them here.


29. Take in the Art at Kunsthistorisches Museum 

The Museum of Fine Arts, also known as the Kunsthistorisches Museum, is one of the largest and most important art museums in the world.

Founded in 1805, the museum is dedicated to showcasing the art and cultural heritage of Vienna and the Habsburg dynasty.

The museum's architecture is notable, designed in the 19th century in the neo-Renaissance style and featuring a grand entrance hall, frescoes, and elaborate sculptures.

The museum's collection is extensive and diverse, and includes works of art and artifacts from ancient civilizations to the modern era.

There is an ancient art collection featuring works from Greece, Rome, and Egypt; Dutch and Flemish paintings including works by Rembrandt, Vermeer, and Rubens; and Renaissance and Baroque art including works by Caravaggio, Tintoretto, and Rubens.

There's also Viennese art and decorative arts from the 17th to the 19th centuries; and Modern art including works by major Austrian artists of the 19th and 20th centuries, such as Gustav Klimt and Egon Schiele.

Tickets can be found here.


30. Secession Building 

The Secession Building is an example of Vienna's modernist architecture.

It was built in the late 19th century as the headquarters of the Vienna Secession, a group of Austrian artists who sought to break away from traditional academic art and embrace modernism.

The building was designed by the Austrian architect Joseph Maria Olbrich and is considered one of the most important examples of Jugendstil architecture, a distinctive style of Art Nouveau that was popular in Europe at the time.

The building is characterized by its distinctive dome, which is covered in gold leaf, and its ornate decorative details.

Inside, visitors can see exhibitions of contemporary art and special exhibitions, including works by some of the most important Austrian and international artists of the 20th and 21st centuries.

The building is also home to the Beethoven Frieze, a series of murals by Gustav Klimt that depict scenes from the life of the famous composer Ludwig van Beethoven.

Tickets can be purchased on the Succession website.


31. Go Shopping on Graben and Kohlmarkt

Graben and Kohlmarkt are two popular shopping streets located in the center of Vienna, Austria.

Graben is a pedestrian street that runs between St. Stephen's Cathedral and the Hofburg Palace.

It is one of Vienna's oldest and most historic streets and is lined with high-end boutiques, jewelry stores, and cafes.

Graben is also home to several landmarks, including the Plague Column, a baroque monument dedicated to the Virgin Mary.

Kohlmarkt, on the other hand, is a luxury shopping street located near the Graben. It is home to several high-end fashion and jewelry brands, as well as several gourmet food shops.

Kohlmarkt is also known for its beautiful baroque buildings and is a popular place for window shopping and people watching.


32. Relax in Stadtpark 

If you’re looking for a place to unwind, Stadtpark (City Park) is the place to sit and enjoy the beauty of Vienna. The park is one of the largest parks in the city, and the perfect place for quiet stroll, a picnic, or a sporting activity. 

The park was created in the late 19th century and was designed in the English landscape style, with rolling hills, large lawns, and winding paths.

The park is home to several monuments and memorials, including the Johann Strauss Monument, which honors the famous composer, and the Franz Schubert Monument, which honors the famous composer and songwriter.

The Stadtpark is also home to several lakes and water features, including the Jahreszeitenbrunnen, a seasonal fountain that is popular with children.

The park is also home to several cafes and restaurants, making it a popular spot for a leisurely lunch or a relaxing drink in the sun.


33. Enjoy a Tipple at Heuriger Wine Taverns

The tradition of Heuriger Wine Taverns dates back to the 18th century and is deeply rooted in the local culture of Vienna.

It’s known for serving the local wine of the region, known as Heuriger, which is made from the most recent grape harvest. 

The taverns serve wine along with a variety of traditional Austrian food, such as smoked meats, sausages, and pastries.

The atmosphere of a Heuriger is typically rustic and relaxed, and often features outdoor seating areas surrounded by vineyards and gardens.


34. Visit the Jewish Museum

This museum is dedicated to the rich heritage and culture of the Jewish community in Austria.  Its purpose is  to encourage deeper understanding of Jewish contributions to the country and the world over the centuries.

The museum is located in a palace once owned by the Jewish noble family Eskeles.

Displays include artifacts, photographs, manuscripts, and other items of interest. It offers a variety of temporary and permanent exhibitions, educational programs and events, workshops, and lectures.

The Jewish Museum is open seven days a week. Visitors can purchase tickets for guided tours, or simply explore the museum on their own.

Tickets can be found on the Vienna Flexi Pass or purchased here.


35. Take in a Show at the Burgtheater

The Burgtheater is Austria’s National Theatre. Europe's second oldest theater, it was founded in 1741 and has been one of the most important cultural institutions in Vienna for centuries.

Today it hosts both classical and contemporary productions and has played host to many famous actors, playwrights, and directors over the years.

It’s known for its high-quality productions of plays, musicals, and operas, and its impressive stage design, costumes, and sets.

Each year it welcomes over 400,000 guests to its 800 performances.

A list of programs can be found here.


36. See the Graves of the Well Known at Zentralfriedhof 

The Zentralfriedhof (Central Cemetery) is located in Vienna, Austria. It is one of the largest cemeteries in Europe, covering an area of over 2.5 square kilometers.

It was established in 1874 as a response to the growing need for more cemetery space in Vienna and is still used today.

The cemetery is known for its striking architecture, with a variety of graves, tombs, and memorials in a variety of styles. There are also several chapels and mausoleums on the grounds, as well as a large central chapel.

It is the final resting place for such figures as Gustav Mahler, Johannes Brahms, Franz Schuber, and Ludwig van Beethoven, as well as actors, politicians, and other public figures.

A guided walking tour of the cemetery can be found here.


37. Smile in front of Wiener Rathaus (Vienna City Hall)

One of the most historic landmarks in the city is the neo-gothic Vienna City Hall. The building was designed by Friedrich von Schmidt, a famous Austrian architect of the 19th century, and was completed in 1883.  

This cultural heritage site has a central towel that’s more than 60 meters tall and can be seen from many parts of Vienna.The interior of the building features intricate decoration, including frescoes, statues, and stained-glass windows.

In addition to its role as a government building, Vienna City Hall also serves as a venue for concerts, exhibitions, and other cultural events including the Vienna Ball.

Visitors often find this is a great place for a selfie, and tours can be had for free

During the winter Rathausplatz, the square out front, is home to the impressive Christkindlmarkt (Christmas Market) and a impressively large skating rink.

At other times of the year one might find an open air cinema, a New Year’s waltz with thousands of people, a May festival celebrating Waldviertel, and numerous festivals.


38. Visit the Naturhistorisches

The Naturhistorisches (Natural History Museum) is one of the largest natural history museums in the world. It's dedicated to showcasing the diversity of life on Earth.

Some of its notable collections include dinosaur skeletons, meteorites, and artifacts from ancient cultures. There are over 30,000,000 objects to be found here!

The museum was founded in the early 19th century and has since undergone several expansions and renovations.

Today, it is a major cultural and scientific institution in Austria and attracts visitors and scholars from all over the world.

Children under age 19 are free to enter. Those aged 19 and older can purchase tickets here.


39. See the Imperial Crypt at the Capuchin Church

The Capuchin Church, a Catholic church and monastery, was consecrated in 1632. It’s most well known for the Imperial Crypt, also known as the Capuchin Crypt.

This subterranean burial chamber located beneath the church has served as the principal place of entombment for members of the House of Habsburg, the ruling dynasty of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, since the 17th century. 

The burial vaults contain the remains of many notable figures, including emperors, empresses, and members of the royal family, including Emperor Charles VI, Empress Maria Theresa, and Emperor Franz Joseph I, among others.

The Imperial Crypt is considered a unique example of Baroque art and architecture and features intricate stonework, frescoes, and sculptures, as well as ornate tombs and sarcophagi.

Tickets to the crypt can be found here. Night concerts are also held in the church, and combo tickets for the concert and crypt can be had here.


40. Partake of Traditional Austrian Food

There are many beloved national dishes you’ll find in Vienna. Some can even be found with a Viennese-specific twist.

You can find some of these delicacies at cafes such as Demel or Central Cafe, at hotels such as Hotel Sacher, or at local restaurants off the beaten path.

Whether it’s made at home or outside by professional chefs, you’re sure to enjoy these traditional dishes.

Sachertorte (or Sacher Torte) is a dense chocolate cake. In the middle is a thin layer of apricot jam and on the outside is a coating of dark chocolate icing. 

Kaiserschmarren is a fried and fluffy, lightly-sweetened, shredded pancake. Often ingredients such as cherries, plums, apple, raisins, or almonds are sometimes added, and it’s sprinkled with powdered sugar and served with a fruit compote.

Cheese Spaetzle is egg noodles (späetzle) smothered in butter and topped with caramelized onions, melted cheese, and fresh herbs.

Wiener Schnitzel is a cutlet of veal pounded thin, dipped in a mixture of flour, breadcrumbs and eggs, and pan fried. 

Tafelspitz is a piece of beef with a layer of fat that’s been cooked in a broth with spices and root vegetables. It’s sliced and served with the broth, potatoes, carrots, apple-horseradish, and chive sauce.

For additional options, check out this list of the most popular Viennese dishes.

For a four hour food tour with tastings of some of the best foods Austria has to offer, find tickets here.


41. Enjoy a Sachertorte at Demel cafe

Demel is a famous cafe and patisserie located in Vienna, Austria. Established in 1786, it was run by the Demel family up until 1972.

Known for its traditional Austrian sweets, pastries, and cakes, Demel is also famous for its chocolates, which are made on-site.

The cafe is also well known for its elegant decor and classic Viennese atmosphere featuring ornate furnishings, crystal chandeliers, and beautiful stained-glass windows

Visitors can enjoy a cup of coffee or tea and sample some of the cafe's famous sweets, or simply take in the historic ambiance of the establishment.


42. See the Colorful Hundertwasserhaus  

The Hundertwasserhaus is a residential building known for its colorful and unconventional architecture and its sustainability.

It was designed by the Austrian artist and architect Friedensreich Hundertwasser and is considered one of the most important examples of post-war Austrian architecture.

The building is characterized by its undulating façade, irregularly shaped windows, and use of bright colors and organic forms, which give it a unique and playful appearance.

Elements of nature, such as trees and vines, are woven into the architecture. The building also contains apartments, which are highly sought after for their unique and playful design.


43. Get Some Insight into Sigmund Freud

The Sigmund Freud Museum is dedicated to the life and work of the famous psychologist and founder of psychoanalysis.

The museum is located in the apartment where Freud lived and worked from 1891 to 1938, before he fled Austria to escape Nazi persecution.

Visitors will get a glimpse into Freud's life and work. His study and office are showcased, as well as some of his personal possessions.

Visitors can also see the couch where Freud's patients laid during their sessions, and view a collection of his books, papers, and manuscripts.

The museum is also an important center for the study and dissemination of psychoanalysis, hosting exhibitions, events, and educational programs.

It also houses a research library and archives, both of which are available to scholars and researchers.

Museum tickets can be found here. There's also a two hour Sigmund Freud Walking Tour that can be arranged here.


44. Relax at The Central Cafe

The Central Cafe was established in the late 19th century and quickly became one of Vienna’s most popular gathering places.

Here artists, writers, musicians, intellectuals, and political figures met up, with figures such as Trotsky and Freud frequenting the cafe.

Today, the Central Cafe continues to be a popular destination for visitors and locals alike, with  its traditional Viennese cuisine, such as goulash or schnitzel, along with pastries, cakes, coffee, and tea. 

It’s known for its Art Nouveau decor, which includes ornate ceilings, stained-glass windows, and intricate woodwork, and is the perfect place to sit and enjoy an afternoon in Vienna.


45. Smell the Roses in Volksgarten

Volksgarten is a public park located in the heart of the city. It’s part of Hofburg Palace and features extensive lawns, flowerbeds, and shady trees. 

This was the first public park in Vienna, designed in the 19th century to be a gathering place for the city's residents  

In the park can be found a Greek temple, a rose garden with 400 types of roses, a monument to Empress Sisi, fountains, and many other statues. 

The park also includes a large concert hall, the Volksgarten Pavillon, which is used for concerts, exhibitions, and other events. In fact, members of the Strauss family used to perform here.

 Today, Volksgarten remains a popular destination for both locals and tourists, who come to enjoy its green spaces, natural beauty, and cultural and historical significance.


46. Take in the View from Karlskirche

Karlskirche, also known as St. Charles's Church, is a magnificent example of Baroque architecture.

It was commissioned by Emperor Charles VI in memory of the plague victims of Vienna and was completed in 1737.

The church is adorned with numerous works of art, including frescoes and sculptures, and is also famous for its ornate interior, which is rich in gold leaf and stucco.

The central dome of the church is particularly notable, as it is one of the largest unsupported domes in the world and offers breathtaking views of the city.

The church was built in the early 18th century and is known for its grand dome and two towers, which offer panoramic views of Vienna. It is a popular tourist destination and a cultural and religious center, hosting concerts, exhibitions, and other events.

Tickets for Four Seasons Concert in Karlskirche can be found here.

The church has undergone several renovations and restorations over the centuries, including after World War II, and has been a symbol of hope and resilience for the people of Vienna.

Tickets are needed to enter and they accept cash only.


47. Visit the Home of a Musical Genius at Mozart House

The Mozart House, located in the heart of the city's historic center, is the birthplace of composer Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, and the place he lived until age 17.

During this time, he composed some of his earliest works, including his first symphony, sonatas, and operas.

The house has been preserved as a museum and has been restored to its 18th-century appearance. Visitors can see Mozart's bedroom, the living room, and other rooms where the family lived and worked.

The museum also contains a collection of musical instruments, including a fortepiano, as well as paintings, sculptures.

Other memorabilia includes original manuscripts and letters, Mozart's personal belongings, and various exhibits on his life and music.

Tickets can be found here.

Note that classical concerts can be attended in the house. Tickets for those can be found here.


48. Enjoy the Sounds of the Vienna Philharmonic

The Vienna Philharmonic, founded in 1842, is one of the world's most renowned orchestras. It is known for its distinctive sound, which is characterized by a warm, rich tone, and for its artistic excellence.

It has been closely associated with some of the greatest composers, conductors, and musicians of the past two centuries.

The orchestra has recorded a wide range of works, from classical masterpieces to contemporary compositions. It is especially known for its performances of works by composers such as Mozart, Beethoven, Brahms, and Mahler.

The orchestra performs regularly at the Musikverein, the same place it holds it's annual New Year's Concert watched by millions of people around the world.

It also puts on a Summer Night Concert in Schonbrunn. 100,000 people attend for free!


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