Wiener Neustadt Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Wiener Neustadt with our comprehensive guide, featuring top attractions, activities, accommodations, and travel tips.


Wiener Neustadt, located in Lower Austria, is a wonderful town to explore. Filled with historical sites, cultural attractions, vibrant local food, and stunning nature, this town will surely enchant you. In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll introduce you to the best things that Wiener Neustadt has to offer.

Introduction to Wiener Neustadt

Wiener Neustadt, meaning “Viennese Newtown” in German, is a town located in Lower Austria. The town was founded in 1194 by Duke Leopold V of Austria, and it has a rich history that dates back to the Middle Ages. Throughout history, Wiener Neustadt was the center of art, culture, and commerce, and today it still has a lot to offer to visitors. The town is easily accessible, either by car or public transportation, and it’s only a short distance away from Vienna.

List of Places to Visit in Wiener Neustadt

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Wiener Neustadt has a rich history and is home to many notable museums and historical sites. The following are some must-visit locations in Wiener Neustadt:

  • Castle of Wiener Neustadt - This impressive castle was built in the 12th century and served as a fortress and residence of the Babenberg dynasty. Today, it is home to the Museum of Military History, which features exhibitions on Austrian military history and technology.
  • Dom Museum - Located in the St. George’s Cathedral, this museum is home to a collection of religious art and artifacts from the 14th to the 21st centuries.
  • Stadttheater - Built in 1908, the Stadttheater is an impressive theater that seats over 600 people. It features a range of plays, operas, and concerts throughout the year.
  • Fischerkirche - This church was built in the 13th century and is known for its Gothic architecture and a beautiful altar.

Natural Attractions of Wiener Neustadt: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Wiener Neustadt is not only rich in history and culture but also features some beautiful natural attractions that are definitely worth discovering. The following are some must-visit natural attractions in Wiener Neustadt:

  • Föhrenberge Nature Park - This nature park, located just north of Wiener Neustadt, features breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. It’s the perfect place for hiking and enjoying the great outdoors.
  • Neufelder See - This picturesque lake, located just east of Wiener Neustadt, is the perfect place to relax and soak up the sun. You can swim, sunbathe, or participate in water sports activities here.
  • Mönichkirchen/Mariensee - Located in the Semmering region, this area is popular with hikers, bikers, and skiers. You can also find the ruins of a 13th-century castle known as Mönichkirchen Castle here.
  • Hirschwiese - A popular recreational area located north of Wiener Neustadt, it has a well-maintained hiking trail, playground, and a stunning view of the Wiener Neustadt.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Wiener Neustadt

Wiener Neustadt is known for its stunning landscape, which makes it an ideal destination for hiking and biking enthusiasts. The following are some of the popular hiking and biking trails in the area:

  • Panoramaweg along the Viennese Alps - This hiking trail gives you access to amazing views of the Alps. You can take the trail from Hirschwiese.
  • Cycle Route R21 - This route is 45 kilometers long and takes you through the most beautiful landscapes of Lower Austria.
  • Alpannonia Trail - This is a 720 km long-distance hike that starts in Wiener Neustadt and ends in Slovenia. It is an incredible way to immerse yourself in the beautiful nature of Lower Austria.

Best Things to Do in Wiener Neustadt: Activities and Tours

Wiener Neustadt offers plenty of exciting activities that cater to various interests. The following activities are definitely worth trying out during your trip:

  • Go on a Walking Tour - Join one of the many walking tours that roam around the city. You can learn about the history of the town’s most notable landmarks, including the Castle of Wiener Neustadt, St. George’s Cathedral, and the Fischerkirche among others.
  • Visit the Töpfermarkt - This is Austria’s largest pottery market. It is held annually on the last weekend of August. You can look at beautiful handcrafted pottery and purchase them.
  • Horse-riding Tours - The rolling hills around Wiener Neustadt provide a perfect setting for horseback riding. You can avail of the horse-riding tour packages available and enjoy the beautiful nature on horseback or in a horse-drawn carriage.
  • Have fun at the Laufsteg Open-Air Sports Range - Try out some outdoor activities like archery, airsoft, and a variety of other sports.

Week-Long Itinerary for Wiener Neustadt

If you’re planning to spend a week in Wiener Neustadt, here’s a sample itinerary to make the most of your trip.

  • Day 1 – Visit Castle of Wiener Neustadt and St. George’s Cathedral
  • Day 2 – Explore the Dom Museum and enjoy the afternoon in Hirschwiese
  • Day 3 – Go on a walking tour and learn about the town’s history
  • Day 4 – Visit Mönichkirchen/Mariensee for a day trip and enjoy the scenic beauty
  • Day 5 – Visit the Töpfermarkt and buy some souvenirs
  • Day 6 – Spend your day doing outdoor activities at Laufsteg Open-Air Sports Range.
  • Day 7 – Relax at Neufelder See and take the time to re-energize yourself.

Food and Drink Scene of Wiener Neustadt

The food and drink scene in Wiener Neustadt is diverse, and it’s not hard to find a great meal or drink here. The following are some must-try dishes and local beverages to try out during your trip:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Wiener schnitzel - It’s a traditional Viennese dish made with breaded veal or pork that’s been pounded thin.
  • Tafelspitz - This dish typically consists of boiled beef served with traditional sides.
  • Strudel - A sweet pastry made with apples, cherries, or other fruits.

Local Beverages

  • Wine - Lower Austria is known for its fantastic wine production, a must-try drink when in the area. Wiener Neustadt produces some outstanding white wines.
  • Beer - Austria is known for its beer culture, and Wiener Neustadt is no exception. You can try out a range of craft beers available in the area.

Where to Stay in Wiener Neustadt: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Whether you’re looking for budget-friendly accommodation or something more luxurious, Wiener Neustadt has plenty of options to choose from. Here are some accommodations for you to consider:

  • Hotel Freizeittempel - It’s a budget-friendly option located in the center of Wiener Neustadt, with tastefully furnished rooms, a restaurant and a garden with a patio.
  • Hotel Corvinus - A four-star luxury hotel located in Wiener Neustadt. The hotel offers a perfect blend of comfort and convenience, and it includes a restaurant, a bar, and a fitness center.
  • Pension Casa Topolino - Located in the heart of Wiener Neustadt, this guesthouse provides cozy accommodation and exceptional services.

What to Buy in Wiener Neustadt: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

When in Wiener Neustadt, there are plenty of souvenirs and local products to bring home. Here are some ideas:

  • Pottery - Wander through the Töpfermarkt and find stunning handcrafted pottery to bring home.
  • Wine - The area is known for their wine production and, depending on the season and location, you can find wines that fit perfectly for your taste.
  • Lace - Wiener Neustadt produces exquisite lacework, so keep an eye out for that!

Local Culture and Customs of Wiener Neustadt

While in Wiener Neustadt, you may want to familiarize yourself with the local customs and culture. Austrians are known for being punctual, and it’s essential to be on time for appointments and gatherings. It’s also polite to greet locals in their language, so consider learning some German phrases.

Best Time to Visit Wiener Neustadt

The best time to visit Wiener Neustadt is from May to September, when the weather is mild and perfect for outdoor activities. It’s best to avoid the peak tourist season in August when the town can get overcrowded.

Do’s and Don’ts of Wiener Neustadt

Do:

  • Dress appropriately - The Austrians dress neatly and maintain a professional appearance, so dress properly when in town.
  • Learn some basic German - Although a lot of locals speak English, it’s polite to learn a few German phrases.
  • Respect the culture and customs - Be respectful of local culture and customs, and be mindful of the area’s rich history and traditions.

Don’t:

  • Don’t be late - Austrians value punctuality and being late can be seen as rude.
  • Don’t forget to tip - While tipping is not a requirement, it is customary to round up your bill when dining at a restaurant.
  • Don’t expect too much night-life - Wiener Neustadt is a peaceful town, and nightlife options are limited.

Safety and Health

Wiener Neustadt is generally a safe town, and visitors shouldn’t have any trouble during their stay. However, it’s important to be aware of common safety precautions, just like in any other place. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

Safety in Wiener Neustadt

  • Avoid isolated areas at night.
  • Be aware of your belongings in crowded areas.
  • Be careful when crossing the streets. Use pedestrian crossing lights and always wait for the green signal.
  • Check weather forecasts before taking outdoor trips.

Health in Wiener Neustadt

  • The town has a few general hospitals if you require medical attention.
  • Don’t forget to get comprehensive travel insurance before your trip.
  • Wiener Neustadt has great tap water, and it’s safe to drink.

Getting to Wiener Neustadt: Transportation Options and Logistics

Wiener Neustadt is located 60 km south of Vienna and can be reached easily by car or public transport. Here are some of the transportation options to reach Wiener Neustadt:

Airports Near Wiener Neustadt

  • Vienna International Airport - This airport is located 70km north of Wiener Neustadt. You can hire a taxi or take the train to reach Wiener Neustadt.

Bus Stations Near Wiener Neustadt

  • Wiener Neustadt Busbahnhof - This is the central bus station in the town and can be accessed by buses from various parts of the country.

Other Options

  • Trains - Wiener Neustadt has excellent train connectivity to different cities in Austria and neighboring countries.
  • Car - An excellent way to explore the surrounding areas is by car, and you can easily rent a vehicle at the airport.

How to Get Around in Wiener Neustadt

Wiener Neustadt is a small town, and most of its attractions are within walking distance. If you prefer not to walk, the town also has an excellent public transportation system, including buses and trains, making it easy to get around.

Where to Go Next from Wiener Neustadt: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Wiener Neustadt is located in an excellent location and makes it a perfect base for trips to surrounding destinations. Here are some of the places that can be reached easily from Wiener Neustadt:

  • Vienna - Austria’s capital city is only an hour’s travel by train from Wiener Neustadt.
  • Lake Neusiedl - This lake is a popular tourist destination and can be reached in just under an hour by car or train.
  • Semmering Railway - This is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is located only 40 km north of Wiener Neustadt.

Conclusion

Wiener Neustadt is a charming destination, with an interesting history, gorgeous natural surroundings and a friendly local community. Plan your trip to Wiener Neustadt with our comprehensive travel guide and visit this hidden gem of Austria.

Hauptplatz (''Main Square'') Hauptplatz (''Main Square'') Castle (Burg) Castle (Burg) 15th-century stained glass window in St George's Church (''Georgskapelle'') 15th-century stained glass window in St George's Church (''Georgskapelle'') Spinnerin am Kreuz Spinnerin am Kreuz Cathedral (''Dom''), dating from the late Romanesque period Cathedral (''Dom''), dating from the late Romanesque period Wiener Neustadt Kanal Wiener Neustadt Kanal Weekly market (''Wochenmarkt'') at the Hauptplatz Weekly market (''Wochenmarkt'') at the Hauptplatz Hohe Wand Nature Park Hohe Wand Nature Park Seebenstein Castle Seebenstein Castle