Vienna, the true jewel of Austria, is a travel destination like no other. Vienna’s rich history is very much alive in its baroque buildings, quick access to the mighty Alps, and UNESCO status. Protected by its UNESCO status, the sights around the city will whisk you away to a different time, with all the modern conveniences.
Top Things to Do in Vienna
There is much to discover and explore in this charming travel destination. Vienna offers visitors tours of the gorgeous city nestled at the end of the alps; concerts filled with the classical sounds of Mozart and Beethoven; and romantic sailings down the Danube River.
The following tips on what to do in Vienna during your Austrian adventure will help guide you on the perfect holiday. Whether you are a thrillseeker, a foodie, a music aficionado, or a kid at heart, Vienna will create memories to last a lifetime.
Schönbrunn Palace
Standing proud with baroque charm, the Schönbrunn Palace (Schloss Schönbrunn) is a pinnacle of Europe in its majesty and grandeur. Dating back to the 16th century, Schönbrunn Palace has an intriguing history.
The Habsburg royal family made Schönbrunn their home during the Austrian summers until its dissolution in the 1800s. The gardens have been meticulously grown and cultivated on the grounds.
Some tours are dedicated to exploring the gardens of Schönbrunn. These guided tours will grant you the opportunity to stroll through these protected gardens. Also, regaled with tales of its heritage.
Schönbrunn Palace Orangery Concert and Dinner
Vienna, also known as the “City of Music,” Schönbrunn Palace has also become home to magnificent concerts in an equally magnificent setting. Access to these concerts, paired with a luxuriously appointed meal on the Palace grounds is an excellent activity during your visit.
Mozart himself played at the Orangerie Schönbrunn, and if you listen close enough at a concert there today, you may hear the echoes of this time gone by. The experience of this masterpiece of sound and rich taste make concert and dinner at Schönbrunn Palace one of the best things to do in Vienna.
Naschmarkt
Any foodie would be thrilled to know that Vienna is home to a wide array of markets to explore. None offer the history and variety as Naschmarkt. Sampling local wines, chocolates, and decadent fare native to Vienna make for a lovely day of culinary delight.
Cuisine local to Austria is not the only tasty thing to be found at Naschmarkt. Known for stalls with delicious foods from around the world, a trip to Naschmarkt creates a worldwide destination of taste buds.
Naschmarkt isn’t only the host to stalls to please the palette. A shopper’s dream also occurs during the flea market hosted here once a week. Looking for that “just right” souvenir to treat those you left behind? The Naschmarkt flea market is the perfect “what to do in Vienna” for you!
Danube River Boat Cruise
When the praises and beauty of a place are put to song, still known hundreds of years later, you know that place must be something special. Johann Strauss’s waltz spoke to the beautiful blue waters that flow through ten countries on its journey to the Black Sea.
This someplace special flows right alongside the ancient city of Vienna, and there are multiple ways to travel its gentle flow. You can choose to rent a boat of your own to go at your pace.
One of the best ways to see Vienna via the beautiful Danube is by taking a romantic sightseeing cruise. You are treated to a world of history from your personal captain or guide. Some tours even offer dinner aboard the vessel to your delight.
If you are ready for a more thrilling adventure on the Danube, consider a wakeboarding excursion. See the Danube in this thoroughly unique way while enjoying the excitement of a wakeboard or water skiing.
St. Stephen’s Cathedral
You will immediately understand the significance of the Cathedral Stephansdom when you enter its beautiful halls. Allow the solemn hush to overtake you, the grounds surround you with their history and timelessness.
The true heart of Vienna, the grounds will take your breath away from the moment you arrive. Your exploration of this medieval cathedral is just beginning, though. As you delve deeper into catacombs where prominent members of the Habsburg family are entombed, feel your archeological spirit come to life.
You even have the opportunity to be truly adventurous in the climb of the South Tower. The climb rewards you with the best views of the City of Music, making it one of the best things to do in Vienna.
Donauturm
Imagine being over 800 feet off the ground, looking out over the stunning landscape of Austria’s capital city. After feeling the high breezes and drinking in the sights of Vienna, retire only slightly lower for a delectable meal of Austrian fare in a rotating restaurant. Welcome to the Danube Tower.
The Donauturm, or Danube Tower, is one of the prestigious group of the 75 tallest buildings in the world. This affords you breathtaking views of some of the other best places to visit in Vienna.
If you are feeling particularly adventurous, you may even take a thrilling jump off the bungee platform available during summertime! Most who take this plunge consider it one of the best things to do in Vienna.
Vienna Woods
You may be wondering what is there to do in Vienna if you are more of an outdoor sort of person. Vienna has something for everyone: if hiking and nature is your thing, the Vienna Woods is perfect for you.
As you are spending the day hiking the peaceful, green trails that meander through Vienna Woods, you may encounter one of many wineries available through the woods. Pop into a winery and tavern to enjoy some classic Viennese eats and drinks.
Safety is key, so if you rent bikes for your group, make sure to wear the right clothes and shoes for your woodland escapade.
Vienna Prater
If you are traveling through Vienna with your family in tow, the perfect destination is Vienna Prater or Prater Park. The second oldest amusement park in the world has retained its fun nature since 1766.
Take a spin on the Giant Ferris Wheel, thrill yourself on one of the twelve roller coasters, or satisfy your sweet tooth at the Chocolate Museum. Prater Park also offers some lovely trails to stroll along if you want to take things a little more slowly.
If you plan your visit at just the right time, you can take part in Wiener Weisr-Fest During early October every year. Don your lederhosen, get your fill of classic Austrian beer and cuisine and join in dancing to the traditional Viennese folk music at this fun festival for the whole family.
For those that enjoy their holidays at their pace, with the flexibility of hopping on and off a bus at your convenience, consider a Flexi Pass. Prater Park is one of the many locations you may visit with the Flexi Pass!
Mozarthaus Vienna
What would a visit to the “City of Music” for a lover of music be without a trip to the very apartment that housed the maestro himself, Mozart? Preserved since his residence from 1784 to 1787, walk throughout his halls in Mozart’s footsteps in the place he called home.
Composing Mozart’s greatest works in Vienna affords the city a certain distinction – the ability to tour his living quarters elevates that distinction. Music lovers will be enraptured in the musical education a tour of Mozart’s own space will provide.
Beautifully kept in superb condition, through a guided tour, you will feel the presence of the indomitable Amadeus and his distinctive and timeless music. Feel even closer to Mozart by enjoying his music where it was first dreamt of with a concert at Mozarthaus.
The Spanish Riding School
Whether you are a regular rider, or just have an appreciation for unique and beautiful artistry, the Spanish Riding School is a must-do on your visit.
The School is not new to Vienna, having been built and used during the Habsburg reign. While enjoying the beautiful structure of the School, what you come to see is its residents.
The Lipizzaner horses are world-renowned for their elegance, regal carriage, and outstanding training. Watching them at their exercises is truly watching art in motion. Many tours regale you with the history of this special site for these special horses.
The Vienna PASS allows you to create a flexible plan of sightseeing that can include a visit to the acclaimed Spanish Riding School and its unforgettable Lipizzaner horses.
