35 Best Things to Do in Vienna

Few cities in the world move so effortlessly between the past and the present as Vienna. After spending some time exploring the city, I found there is an almost endless list of things to do in Vienna, from grand imperial palaces to atmospheric cafés and fascinating museums.

The Austrian capital has a thriving artistic and cultural scene, with impressive concert halls, museums, and theaters, as well as magnificent palaces, historic buildings, and beautiful gardens that make Vienna such a rewarding destination.

Vienna is a city with an enormous artistic legacy and a fascinating intellectual heritage, and nowhere is this more obvious than in its historic center.

The city has one of the highest concentrations of palaces and Baroque buildings in Europe, reflecting the artistic and intellectual movements that shaped Vienna over the centuries.

35 Best Things to Do in Vienna

1. Schönbrunn Palace

Schönbrunn Palace, which dates back to the 17th century, is one of Austria’s most important cultural landmarks.

It was the summer residence of the Habsburgs and is easily one of the most impressive palaces in Europe. With its 1,441 rooms, enormous scale, and lavish interiors, the complex gives you a very good idea of the luxury and grandeur of imperial Vienna.

The palace itself is spectacular, but I also recommend taking time to explore the surrounding grounds. The combination of the magnificent palace, extensive gardens, and imperial history makes Schönbrunn the main tourist attraction in the Austrian capital.

For me, this deserves to be at number 1 on your list of things to do in Vienna.

2. See the Ankeruhr and Explore Vienna’s Historic Center on Foot

A great place to start exploring is Hoher Markt, one of the oldest squares in Vienna and home to the Ankeruhr, an ornate Art Nouveau clock connecting two historic buildings. The clock features twelve historical figures, each representing an important personality from Vienna’s past.

If you are here at the right time, try to be at the clock at noon, when all twelve figures appear one after another accompanied by music. It is a short but fascinating spectacle.

From here, you can continue exploring the elegant and imperial historic center on foot. Wandering through its streets, squares, and avenues is one of the best ways to get a feel for the city and discover some of its most iconic buildings.

As you walk, you can make your way towards Stephansplatz, Graben, Hofburg Palace, and the Vienna State Opera, taking your time to admire the intricate architecture and the different layers of history that have shaped the Austrian capital.

If you want to see the historic center from a different perspective, you can also take a ride in a traditional Fiaker, Vienna’s famous horse-drawn carriage. This is a pleasant way to see some of the city’s historic streets and grand buildings while exploring the heart of Vienna.

3. Hofburg Palace

Hofburg Palace is another enormous palace complex and one of the best places to appreciate the power and influence of the Habsburg dynasty.

It served as the official residence of the imperial family for hundreds of years and was the place from which they ruled one of Europe’s most powerful empires.

Since its origins in the 13th century, the complex has been expanded repeatedly. The most impressive addition, in my opinion, is the magnificent semicircular Neue Burg, whose imposing façade is difficult to miss.

You can admire the palace’s beautiful Baroque architecture, explore the imperial apartments, or visit one of the museums housed within the complex. Even walking around the enormous courtyards gives you a real sense of Vienna’s imperial past.

4. Parliament Building

The Parliament is another of Vienna’s most important historic buildings. Located next to the Rathaus and very close to the Museum Quarter, it is the seat of Austria’s National Council and Federal Council.

Even if you simply admire it from the outside, it is well worth stopping here. I particularly liked its impressive Greek-inspired architecture, which makes it stand out among the grand buildings along the Ringstrasse.

Some areas of the building can also be visited through the visitor center, offering a closer look at this important political landmark.

5. Kunsthistorisches Museum

The Kunsthistorisches Museum, or Museum of Fine Arts, is a must-see museum in Vienna, specially if you enjoy European art.

Housed in an impressive palace on the Ringstrasse opposite the equally spectacular Natural History Museum, it contains the formidable art collection of the Habsburgs.

Inside, you can admire masterpieces by Raphael, Titian, Rubens, Rembrandt, and Tintoretto, among many other renowned artists. The sheer quality of the collection makes wandering through its galleries a particularly rewarding experience.

You will also find galleries filled with Egyptian treasures, as well as fascinating Greek and Roman antiquities, making this much more than a traditional European art museum.

6. Take Your Time Enjoying Vienna’s Coffeehouse Culture

Coffeehouse culture is deeply rooted in Viennese life, and spending time in one of the city’s traditional cafés is something I would definitely recommend.

Vienna’s coffeehouses have an old-world charm that is hard to replicate, with chandeliers, marble tables, elegant interiors, and decorations that seem to take you back to another era.

Café Central is one of the city’s most famous historic coffeehouses, while the literary Café Bräunerhof is another atmospheric choice.

For something more casual, young Viennese locals flock to Alt Wien, which has more of an English pub feel. Another option I like is Kleine’s, located on the charming cobbled Franziskanerplatz in Vienna’s old town.

Sitting down with a coffee and simply watching the city go by is one of those simple pleasures that makes Vienna so enjoyable.

7. Wine Taverns

Alongside its famous coffeehouses, the Heuriger, or traditional wine tavern, is another essential part of Viennese culture.

These welcoming taverns are a great place to sample locally produced wines made from grapes grown in the vineyards surrounding Vienna.

Head to Hengel-Haselbrunner, which has been around since the 17th century, or try the cozy Buschenschank Schöll. I love the idea of settling down with a glass of wine, some local cheese, and enjoying the relaxed atmosphere and live music.

It is a very different side of Vienna from its grand palaces and museums, and one of the best ways to experience the city’s more traditional and laid-back character.

8. Burgtheater

Located near the Rathaus, the Burgtheater is Austria’s national theater and one of the most important German-language theaters in the world.

It was originally established when Empress Maria Theresa wanted a theater near the imperial palace, and over the centuries it became an important center of Viennese cultural life.

The current building, with its Neo-Renaissance façade and lavishly decorated interiors, dates from the late 19th century. Its architecture, rich history, and cultural importance make it one of the most remarkable historic buildings in Vienna.

9. Museum Quarter

Vienna’s Museum Quarter, covering around 60,000 square meters, is home to several world-class museums and is one of the best places in the city to spend a few hours if you enjoy art and culture.

Among them are the MUMOK, dedicated to modern art, and the Leopold Museum, which houses one of the largest collections of Austrian modern art.

I particularly like the atmosphere here because you can easily combine museum-hopping with a coffee or a relaxed stroll through this lively cultural district.

10. Explore Mariahilf (District 6)

The Mariahilf area is a real melting pot of art and culture, packed with bars, galleries, independent shops, and cafés to discover.

It is one of the most dynamic and entertaining neighborhoods in the Austrian capital, and I find it a great place to experience a more local side of Vienna away from the grand imperial sights.

Wandering through its streets without a fixed plan is part of the fun, especially if you enjoy discovering creative neighborhoods with plenty of character. It is also one of my favorite places to stay in Vienna.

11. St. Stephen’s Cathedral

This imposing structure stands proudly in Stephansplatz and has been the most important church in Vienna and Austria since it was built.

The beauty of St. Stephen’s Cathedral is undeniable. What immediately caught my attention was its spectacular roof, covered with hundreds of colorful tiles arranged in an intricate geometric pattern.

Inside, there are 18 altars, several smaller chapels, tombs, and catacombs. Don’t miss the Cathedral Treasury, which adds another fascinating layer to this historic Viennese landmark.

12. Do You Like Techno?

If you enjoy electronic music, you will have a great time in Vienna. The city has a surprisingly good number of clubs where you can hear some of the best techno music around.

Among them, there is one name you should remember: Grelle Forelle.

This popular club is a great choice if you want to experience Vienna after dark and discover the city’s edgier, underground side, which feels very different from its imperial palaces and traditional coffeehouses.

13. Enjoy Vienna’s Nightlife

Vienna has a nightlife scene that is well worth exploring. You will find options for almost every taste, but if there is one thing the city is particularly passionate about, it is techno and electronic music.

In addition to the aforementioned Grelle Forelle, the list of top clubs is quite extensive, so you will have plenty of options for a night out.

Another one to consider is Club Titanic, in the 6th district, a legendary club that has remained at the top of the scene since the 1980s.

14. Visit One of Vienna’s Sausage Stands

As you walk through the streets of Vienna, you will come across Würstlstands, small kiosks serving different types of sausages.

Vienna’s residents consider these sausage stands to be local institutions, and they are one of my favorite options when I want something quick and tasty while continuing to explore the city.

Stopping at one for a classic Viennese sausage is a simple experience, but it gives you a taste of everyday life in the Austrian capital.

15. Try Austrian Beers

One of the things you have to do in Vienna is try some of its Austrian beers. Stiegl, Wieselburger, and Ottakringer are among the most popular, so try as many as you can.

The area around Brunnenmarkt is one of the most vibrant, multicultural, and lively parts of the city and is a particularly good place to sit down and enjoy a few beers.

I like this part of Vienna because it feels much more local and unpretentious than some of the grander areas around the historic center.

16. Search Through the Treasures at Local Flea Markets

If you are someone who enjoys browsing flea markets, another thing you have to do in Vienna is visit one of the city’s local flea markets.

The hustle and bustle of these markets is wonderfully chaotic, and you can often find hidden gems and unusual treasures among the piles of old belongings and second-hand goods.

One of the most recommended is the Riesen Flohmarkt Wienerberg in the 12th district. Even if you do not buy anything, wandering through the stalls is a fun way to experience a different side of Vienna.

17. Explore the City by Bike

Vienna’s streets are perfectly adapted for cyclists, with bike lanes and plenty of city bike stations where you can rent a bicycle.

When the warmer months arrive, I find that cycling is one of the most enjoyable ways to explore the city, especially if you want to cover more ground without relying on public transport.

It is also a great way to move between Vienna’s historic sights, leafy parks, and lively neighborhoods while seeing the city from a different perspective.

18. Stroll Along Burggasse

The 7th district, Neubau, has long been a meeting point for Vienna’s young and creative scene thanks to its abundance of cafés, galleries, independent boutiques, and second-hand shops.

Take a stroll along Burggasse and you will quickly get a feel for the atmosphere of this creative and youthful neighborhood.

And while you are exploring, make time to eat a Wiener Schnitzel. One of the things you have to do in Vienna is try this famous dish. You cannot visit the city without tasting its most well-known culinary specialty.

19. Stroll Through the Schönbrunn Gardens and Climb Up to the Gloriette

Another exceptional part of the Schönbrunn Palace complex is its gardens. They are simply magical, and the fact that access to them is free makes them even more appealing.

Overlooking the gardens and standing on the hill directly opposite Schönbrunn is the Gloriette.

This elegant classical building offers excellent views of Vienna and, in my opinion, some of the best views of Schönbrunn Palace itself.

20. Rathaus

The town hall, located in Rathausplatz, is one of Vienna’s most iconic buildings. The Rathaus was built in the 1800s in a striking Neo-Gothic style very similar to that of Brussels City Hall.

It has five towers, with the largest one standing in the center and crowned by the iconic statue of Rathausman.

If you visit Vienna at Christmas, you also cannot miss the Christmas market held directly in front of the Town Hall. It is the most important market in the city.

21. Tiergarten Schönbrunn (Vienna Zoo)

The Tiergarten, located on the grounds of Schönbrunn Palace and founded in 1752, is the oldest zoo in the world.

It has several original 18th-century buildings which, combined with more modern structures, create a pleasant place to spend a few hours.

The setting within the Schönbrunn grounds is one of the things I particularly enjoy, making the zoo feel more like a historic park than a conventional modern zoo.

22. Belvedere Museum

This gigantic palace complex served as a summer residence for Austrian princes in the 17th century.

Belvedere Palace is actually two palaces facing each other, characterized by their astonishing architecture and the beauty of their gardens.

The palace houses a very interesting museum featuring important works of art. However, if you are tired of visiting so many museums, a good option is simply to explore the gardens and admire the palaces from the outside. Access to the gardens is free.

Walking through the beautiful gardens and admiring the elegant architecture of these two palaces is one of my favorite ways to experience the Belvedere without spending the whole day indoors.

23. Vienna State Opera

Opera and architecture are synonymous with Vienna, and the Vienna State Opera offers both. This exceptional building is located right in the city center and is considered one of the best opera houses in the world.

The exterior, in Neo-Renaissance style, is characterized by its numerous arches and windows, while the interior is extremely opulent and looks more like a palace than a venue for musical performances.

Visiting the State Opera and admiring its architecture is one of the things to do in Vienna. Its central location also makes it easy to combine a visit with a stroll through some of the city’s most important streets and squares.

And if you are an opera lover, do not miss the opportunity to experience an evening at the Vienna State Opera. Sitting inside this elegant building and watching a performance is an experience that perfectly captures Vienna’s long-standing love of music and opera.

24. Natural History Museum of Vienna

The Natural History Museum is housed in a magnificent palace complex that perfectly reflects Vienna’s grand historic architecture.

Inside, you will find a huge collection of minerals, gemstones, meteorites, fossils, and animal skeletons. There is also a very interesting collection of insects and mammals, as well as some truly spectacular dinosaur skeletons that are sure to catch your attention.

With more than 30 million objects, the museum has one of the most important collections in Europe.

The museum also has a digital planetarium, where you can watch fascinating films about the Earth, the universe, and its development.

If you are visiting Vienna with children, I would definitely include this fascinating museum among the most interesting things to do in Vienna with kids.

25. Have Fun at Prater Amusement Park and Ride Its Giant Ferris Wheel

Wiener Prater Park was once a hunting ground before being transformed into a public space filled with food stalls and small amusement booths.

Today, it is home to an amusement park that has become one of Vienna’s main tourist attractions and one of the liveliest places in the city.

Here you will find classic attractions such as bumper cars, carousels, and roller coasters, but the star of the park is undoubtedly its famous Giant Ferris Wheel.

I particularly enjoyed the combination of old-fashioned amusement park charm and modern rides, while the views from the Giant Ferris Wheel make the experience even more memorable.

26. Attend the Morning Training at the Spanish Riding School

The Spanish Riding School is renowned as one of the world’s finest institutions for classical dressage.

It has a centuries-old tradition of training horses in the highly disciplined art of classical dressage.

The riding school, built during the Habsburg monarchy, is located in the Hofburg, right in the heart of Vienna.

The building is open to the public, and you can attend the morning training sessions and, in some cases, special demonstrations. Watching the beautifully trained Lipizzaner horses perform their precise movements is a unique Viennese experience.

27. Marvel at the Grand Hall of the National Library

One of the most charming places in Vienna is the Grand Hall of the National Library.

The National Library occupies an early 18th-century Baroque building, and its main attraction is this extraordinary hall.

Walking inside, I was struck by the grand scale, ornate decoration, and beautiful frescoes surrounding the shelves filled with historic books.

The combination of Baroque architecture and centuries-old books makes this one of the most atmospheric places to visit in the Austrian capital.

28. Enjoy the Best Views of Vienna from the Danube Tower (Donauturm)

From the top of the 252-meter-high Danube Tower, you can enjoy some of the best panoramic views of Vienna.

On a clear day, the views stretch across the city and far into the surrounding countryside, giving you a completely different perspective of the Austrian capital.

You can take in the scenery from its observation deck or enjoy a meal in its revolving restaurant while Vienna slowly unfolds beneath you.

For me, seeing the city from above was one of the best ways to appreciate just how large and beautifully laid out Vienna really is.

29. Visit the Hundertwasserhaus

Among all the elegant and harmonious buildings in Vienna, the Hundertwasserhaus is a is a completely different architectural style to see in Vienna.

Its undulating shapes, vivid colors, irregular windows, and abundant vegetation integrated into the building are the complete opposite of the orderly architecture that defines much of Vienna.

Designed by artist Friedensreich Hundertwasser, this colorful and unconventional building is one of the most distinctive sights in the city.

30. Naschmarkt

Markets often define a city and provide a fascinating insight into what local life is like. Naschmarkt is Vienna’s most important market and one of the liveliest places to explore.

Located on Wienzeile Street, very close to the Vienna State Opera, it stretches for around 1.5 km.

As you wander through the market, you will find stalls selling fresh fruit and vegetables, cheeses, seafood, and other food products, as well as stalls offering textiles and souvenirs.

It is also a great place to stop for lunch or a coffee, with plenty of reasonably priced restaurants and lively bars along the market.

I particularly enjoyed the multicultural atmosphere here, which makes Naschmarkt feel very different from Vienna’s grand imperial sights.

31. Try the Sacher, Vienna’s Most Famous Cake

The Sacher is one of the most famous pastry creations in the world and an essential part of Vienna’s culinary identity.

Its Viennese origins make trying this rich chocolate cake in the city something you should not miss when visiting Vienna.

The classic place to taste it is the Hotel Sacher, where the famous dessert has become almost as iconic as the city itself.

Even if you are not normally a dessert person, I think trying a slice of traditional Sachertorte is one of those quintessential Viennese experiences worth making time for.

32. Explore the Ringstrasse

The Ringstrasse is a ring boulevard that surrounds Vienna’s Innere Stadt district. It was built in the 19th century after the city walls were demolished.

The boulevard is famous for its eclectic architecture and is lined with some of Vienna’s most important buildings.

Walking or cycling along the Ringstrasse is a great way to take in the grand scale of imperial Vienna.

33. Go Shopping Along Kärntner Strasse

Vienna also offers plenty of options for those who want to go shopping. The city center is filled with pedestrian shopping streets featuring everything from major international brands to smaller local labels.

The most important street is Kärntner Strasse, one of the city’s best-known shopping thoroughfares. I enjoyed wandering along this lively central street, especially because shopping here can easily be combined with sightseeing around some of Vienna’s most famous landmarks.

34. Vienna Woods

The Vienna Woods are located west of the city. Several rivers form the boundaries of the forests, or Wienerwald.

These beautiful wooded hills are very popular with Austrians looking to escape the city, as well as visitors who want to experience a quieter side of the country.

They are a great place to enjoy the peaceful Austrian countryside, go for a walk, and experience the natural landscapes surrounding Vienna.

35. Explore the Danube and Wachau Valleys

Discovering the beautiful Danube and Wachau Valleys, an area designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is undoubtedly one of the best experiences you can enjoy during your stay in Vienna.

Its proximity to the Austrian capital makes it possible to spend one day exploring this beautiful region and discovering its picturesque villages, vineyards, and river landscapes.

Exploring the Danube and Wachau Valleys on your own is an excellent way to escape the hustle and bustle of Vienna for a few hours and enjoy the beautiful Austrian countryside.