What to Do in Vienna: Your Ultimate Travel Guide
Vienna, a city of imperial grandeur, classical music, and vibrant culture, offers an unparalleled experience for every traveller. Famous for its majestic palaces, artistic treasures, and lively café scene, Vienna is a destination brimming with possibilities. Whether you're exploring what to do in Vienna in 1 day or planning a longer visit, this guide will help you uncover what to see and do in Vienna, from the must-sees to the truly unique things to do in Vienna.
Events found for Vienna
Venues found for Vienna
-
Wiener Musikverein
Vienna, Austria
The Wiener Musikverein was inaugurated by Emperor Franz Joseph in 1870 and is still considered one of the finest concert halls in the world.
-
Wiener Hofburg
Vienna, Austria
Don’t miss out on an essential collection of historical and artistic wonders – explore the august world of the Habsburgs in this fascinating palace.
-
Orangerie Schönbrunn
Vienna, Austria
Completed in 1755, the Orangerie was a frequent location for festivities of the Habsburg emperor, and Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart himself performed here.
-
Sala Terrena: Mozarthaus
Vienna, Austria
The Sala Terrena is located within the convent of the Deutsche Ritterorden in Vienna, where Wolgang Amadeus Mozart himself lived and performed in 1781.
-
Old Stock Exchange Palace
Vienna, Austria
The Börsensäle premises were constructed by Danish architect Theophil v. Hansen between 1871 and 1877. Theophil v. Hansen gave personal attention to the Festsaal, creating ornamentation which was gran
Popular Topics in Vienna
-
Vienna Concerts
Find Tickets and Schedules
Recommended concerts in the city of music
-
Vienna Dinner Concerts
Purchase tickets to Vienna dinner concerts
The delights of Austrian culture
-
Opera in Vienna
Information, Schedule and Tickets
Information, schedule and tickets
-
Vienna Mozart Concerts
Schedule, Information and Tickets
Schedule, Information and Tickets
-
Schönbrunn Palace Vienna
Concerts and Tickets
Classical music in a royal atmosphere
Partner Offer
Top Experiences in Vienna
Book one of the experiences that other customers have liked and recommended:
-
The Historic Centre of Vienna: Private Tour including Mozarthaus
Vienna is known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant cultural scene with a music tradition that attracts people to the city where Haydn, Beethoven, Brahms, Schubert, Strauss and Mozart perfected their art. On your private walking tour, you will: Discover Vienna's historic centre on a three‐hour guided walking tour; See the most important cultural and political sites, including the Rathausplatz, home to Vienna's impressive City Hall, with its towering Gothic spire and ornate facade; Visit Maria Theresien Platz, flanked by two of the most iconic museums in the city; Admire the Hofburg, the seat of the Habsburg dynasty for centuries, and now housing museums and the Austrian president's office; Learn about the Spanish Riding School, home to the world‐renowned Lipizzaner horses; Pass by Michaeler Church, where the first two movements of Mozart's Requiem were performed just five days after his death; Admire the stunning Augustine Church, a 14th‐century Gothic building; Hear about The Holy Trinity Monument built in gratitude for the end of the Great Plague of the 17th century; See the iconic St. Stephen's Cathedral, the centrepiece of Vienna's historic centre and admire its towering spire and ornate facade; Explore the old Jewish district, home to the haunting Holocaust Monument, also known as the "Nameless Library"; Stop at the famous Anker Clock, an impressive example of Art Nouveau featuring individual figures that rotate in sequence to mark the hours of the day; End your tour with a self‐guided tour in the MozartHaus Museum, a centre showing the life and work of the musical genius which you will be free to explore at your leisure with an audioguide included after parting ways with your guide. Synonymous with the syncopated waltz that bears its name, Vienna owes much of its musical heritage to the Habsburg dynasty and the excellent creative environment provided by the imperial court for visionary musical talent. Great composers were drawn to Vienna to pen immortal works in a honing ground for musical visionaries.This fascinating half‐day highlights tour will take you to Vienna’s most compelling attractions in a city crowded with glittering gilded palaces, monuments, bronze statues, grand mansions, and dome‐topped royal buildings. As one of Europe's grandest capitals, Vienna is rich in handsome architecture and cultural relics that reflect the city’s storied history. On your walking tour, you will explore the best of the city’s architecture, including the Austrian Parliament Building, the Alte Burg, the Spanish Riding School, and the Austrian National Library. The architectural finery of Vienna's historic centre is a UNESCO World Heritage site, a bounty of Gothic, Romanesque, Baroque, Art Deco, and "Jugendstil" architecture under the gaze of the 370‐foot steeple of St. Stephen's Cathedral. Your tour finishes at the entrance to MozartHaus Museum, where you will step into the life of the classical virtuoso and trace his enthralling backstory at your own pace. Your guide will part ways with you here so you can enjoy your self‐guided tour.
-
Vienna Classical Music Festival: Inspiration – Vienna
Experience the exquisite melodies of classical music by Schubert, Bottesini, Strauss and others at Vienna's beloved Minoritenkirche in this eagerly awaited concert.
-
Vienna Classical Music Festival: “Italy in Vienna”
Experience the exquisite melodies of classical music by Mozart, Vivaldi and Paganini at Vienna's beloved Minoritenkirche in this eagerly awaited concert.
-
Vienna Classical Music Festival: Strauss, Haydn & Mozart
Experience the exquisite melodies of classical music by Strauss, Haydn and Mozart at Vienna's beloved Minoritenkirche in this eagerly awaited concert.
-
Street art tour through Vienna
Your local expert and guide is a passionate insider of the Viennese Street Art scene who collects information about the art and the artists. Some work carries political, social and artistic references, while others are more personal.During your tour you will see art by big names in the scene like ROA, Blu, Stink Fish and Shepard Fairey who have already come to Vienna to leave their mark. Join the tour to follow in the artists footsteps and get a different impression of the city. Your tour's mission is not only to promote the Viennese street art, but also to create a platform for travellers and locals to meet, discuss and discover the city and its suburbs from another perspective.
Must‐See Attractions: The Classics of What to Do in Vienna
If you’re planning what to do in Vienna, start with the city’s iconic landmarks. Begin your journey at Schönbrunn Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the former summer residence of the Habsburgs. Wander through its opulent rooms and stroll the vast gardens, climbing up to the Gloriette for panoramic views of Vienna.
Another must see in Vienna is the Hofburg Palace, which now houses the Imperial Apartments, the Sisi Museum, and the Austrian National Library. Don’t miss the chance to see the Spanish Riding School, home to the famed Lipizzaner horses.
For art lovers, the Belvedere Palace is home to masterpieces like Gustav Klimt’s The Kiss. And a visit to St. Stephen’s Cathedral (Stephansdom), with its towering Gothic spire, is undeniably one of the best things to do in Vienna.
A stroll down La Rambla is undeniably one of the best things to do in Barcelona. This bustling boulevard, lined with shops, street performers, and cafés, leads you through the heart of the city. Be sure to explore the vibrant market of La Boqueria for a taste of local life.
What to Do in Vienna by Day and Night
During the day, explore Vienna’s historic streets and world-class museums. Stroll along the Ringstrasse, a grand boulevard encircling the city center, and admire landmarks like the Vienna State Opera and Karlskirche. Visit the Naschmarkt, Vienna’s famous open-air market, to experience local flavours and vibrant city life.
As the sun sets, Vienna becomes even more enchanting. Wondering what to do in Vienna at night? Attend a classical concert at Vienna concert venues, such as the Wiener Musikverein, where the Vienna Philharmonic performs, or enjoy an intimate classical concert at Peterskirche. The majestic Stephansdom also hosts evening performances in its awe-inspiring interior.
For a more relaxed evening, dine at a Heuriger (wine tavern) in the hills around Vienna or sip coffee at one of the city’s historic cafés. These evening activities ensure you experience the charm of Vienna both by day and by night.
Vienna Tips and Attractions
Vienna offers something special in every season. Whether you’re exploring what to do in Vienna in 2 days or staying longer, the city’s allure never fades. In spring and summer, enjoy concerts in the gardens of Schönbrunn or take a boat ride along the Danube. Winter brings the magic of Vienna’s Christmas markets, while fall is perfect for visiting the surrounding wine regions.
Keep an eye out for Vienna events, like the Vienna Festival in May or the New Year’s Concert at the Musikverein. The city’s dynamic calendar ensures there’s always something new to discover.
Unique Things to Do in Vienna
For those seeking unique things to do in Vienna, visit the Hundertwasserhaus, a colourful architectural marvel designed by Friedensreich Hundertwasser. Another hidden gem is the Third Man Museum, dedicated to the classic film The Third Man and Vienna’s post-war history.
Explore the Vienna Woods for a peaceful escape into nature or take a cruise on the Danube River for a different perspective of the city. Getting off the beaten path is one of the top things to do in Vienna, offering a glimpse into the city’s diverse character.
Exploring Vienna’s Neighbourhoods
Wondering what to do in Vienna in 1 day? Focus on the historic city centre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit Schönbrunn Palace, St. Stephen’s Cathedral, and the Hofburg Palace, and end your day with a classical concert.
If you have more time, explore Vienna’s charming neighbourhoods. The Innere Stadt is perfect for history lovers, while the Leopoldstadt district offers green spaces like Prater Park and trendy cafés. Neubau, the city’s creative hub, is home to the Museums Quartier and independent shops. Vienna’s neighbourhoods reveal the city’s many facets and are ideal for those wondering what to do in Vienna in 2 days.
Food and Dining in Vienna
When deciding what to do in Vienna, indulging in the city’s culinary delights is essential. Savor classics like Wiener Schnitzel, Tafelspitz, and Apfelstrudel at traditional restaurants like Figlmüller or Plachutta.
For an authentic coffeehouse experience, visit Café Central or Café Demel, where you can enjoy Viennese coffee and a slice of Sachertorte. If you’re a wine enthusiast, head to a Heuriger for local wines and hearty Austrian dishes. Vienna’s food scene is a highlight of any visit.
Why Vienna is Worth Visiting
Vienna enchants visitors with its imperial history, world-class art, and unrivalled music scene. From the grandeur of Schönbrunn Palace to the cozy charm of its coffeehouses, the city offers a perfect mix of elegance and authenticity.
Whether you’re cruising along the Danube, exploring what to do in Vienna in 1 day, or attending a concert at the Musikverein, Vienna promises an unforgettable experience. To make your trip even more memorable, check out Classictic for tickets to Vienna’s top classical performances. Its blend of history, culture, and vibrant local life ensures it remains one of the most magical destinations in the world.