Vienna Travel Guide

Planning a trip to Vienna? Check out our comprehensive guide to discover the top attractions, hotels, food, culture, safety tips and more.


Introduction to Vienna

Vienna, the capital of Austria, is a remarkable city with an exceptional display of art, music, culture, and history. Known for its beautiful architecture, coffeehouses, and vibrant nightlife, Vienna is a must-visit destination for travel enthusiasts. Whether you are interested in exploring its historical landmarks, hiking and biking routes or want to relish mouth-watering Viennese cuisine, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful city.

List of Places to Visit in Vienna

Below are some of the top-rated attractions to add to your Vienna itinerary.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Vienna has a rich history and is home to several culturally important attractions. Here are a few of them:

  • Schönbrunn Palace: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Schönbrunn Palace is one of the most visited attractions in Vienna, with its well-manicured gardens, stunning architecture, and panoramic views of the city.

  • Hofburg Palace: A complex of imperial palaces, museums and administration buildings, the Hofburg Palace is another iconic landmark in Vienna and is a must-visit for history buffs.

  • Belvedere Palace: A beautiful baroque palace, Belvedere is home to several art museums exhibiting the most significant works of artists like Gustav Klimt and Egon Schiele.

  • St. Stephen’s Cathedral: A 14th-century Gothic cathedral, it is located in the heart of Vienna and is one of the most prominent structures in the city.

Natural Attractions of Vienna: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Apart from the art and culture, Vienna is also known for its green spaces and outdoor activities. Some of the best natural attractions in Vienna are:

  • Danube River: One of the longest rivers in Europe, the Danube River flows through Vienna, offering scenic walks, boat rides, and cycling trails along its banks.

  • Schönbrunn Palace Gardens: Surrounded by majestic trees, flowers, fountains, and sculptures, the gardens of Schönbrunn Palace are a delight for nature lovers and ideal for a relaxed afternoon stroll.

  • Vienna Woods: A vast forest range situated in the Vienna region, it is perfect for adventurous activities like hiking and mountain biking.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Vienna

If you are an outdoor enthusiast and love biking and hiking, Vienna has many trails to offer. The city is known for its extensive network of bike paths, and there are several routes you can take for a scenic ride or a relaxing walk. Some popular routes are:

  • Danube Bike Path: One of the most famous bike routes in Europe, it takes you through some charming towns and beautiful landscapes along the Danube River.

  • Ringstrasse: A 5.2 km route, it is perfect for a leisurely family bike ride or an informative guided tour. The path will take you through Vienna’s most iconic landmarks, including Vienna State Opera and City Hall.

Best Things to Do in Vienna: Activities and Tours

From sightseeing tours to food tours, here are a few must-do things in Vienna:

  • Visit the Naschmarkt: Vienna’s most famous open-air market, here, you can explore the wide range of culinary delicacies, and also some fresh fruits, vegetables, and local Viennese products.

  • Go on a Vienna Nightlife Tour: For those looking for some nightlife, going on a pub crawl through the most popular Viennese bars is an excellent idea to start with.

  • Take a Vienna Food Tour: From famous Viennese coffeehouses to traditional food restaurants, you can get an honest taste of authentic Viennese cuisine.

Week-Long Itinerary for Vienna

Here is a week-long itinerary to help you plan your trip to Vienna:

Day Activities
Day 1 Visit Schönbrunn Palace, walk around the Palace Gardens
Day 2 Visit Hofburg Palace and Stephan’s Cathedral in the city center
Day 3 Explore the Belvedere Palace and Museum
Day 4 Go on a bike ride along the Danube River and visit the Danube Tower
Day 5 Travel to Vienna Woods for hiking and nature exploration
Day 6 Take a guided tour of the city’s art museums
Day 7 Visit Naschmarkt and enjoy a local food tour

Food and Drink Scene of Vienna

One of the most significant reasons to visit Vienna is its food and drink scene. The city has some of the best coffee houses, wine bars, and restaurants serving authentic Viennese cuisine. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Wiener Schnitzel: A traditional Austrian dish made with breaded and fried veal served with parsley potatoes.

  • Tafelspitz: An Austrian boiled beef dish similar to a pot roast.

  • Apfelstrudel: A sweet pastry made with apples and cinnamon.

Local Beverages

  • Viennese coffee: A must-try coffee in Vienna that is usually served with a glass of water and a variety of sweet treats.

  • Wines: Vienna is famous for its wine culture, and you can try different types like Grüner Veltliner and Riesling.

Where to Stay in Vienna: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Vienna offers a wide variety of accommodation options, including luxury hotels, hostels, and guest houses. Here are some popular choices:

  • Hotel Imperial: A five-star hotel located in the heart of Vienna, it offers luxury rooms and suites with world-class facilities.

  • Wombats City Hostel: A budget-friendly hostel located in the city center, it offers shared and private rooms with all modern amenities.

  • Hotel Am Konzerthaus Vienna MGallery: A mid-range hotel located next to the famous Konzerthaus building, it offers beautifully designed rooms with a range of special touches and amenities.

What to Buy in Vienna: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Vienna is also known for its unique souvenirs and local products. Here are some items that you can take back home as a memory of Vienna:

  • Sacher Torte: The famous Viennese cake that makes for a perfect gift or souvenir.

  • Apricot products: Austrians are famous for their Apricots, and you can find a wide variety of apricot jams, liqueurs, and chocolates to take back home.

  • Porcelain: Vienna has a long tradition of porcelain making, and you can find beautiful porcelain dolls, figures, and plates at many gift shops.

Local Culture and Customs of Vienna

Vienna has a unique culture steeped in tradition and history. Here are some customs and traditions you should know:

  • Dress code: Vienna has a sophisticated dress code that is strictly enforced in many places, especially fine dining restaurants and theatres.

  • Respectful behavior: Austrians are known for their polite and courteous behavior, and you should respect local customs and traditions during your visit.

Best Time to Visit Vienna

Vienna is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit is from April to October when the weather is mild and enjoyable. The Christmas markets during November and December are also popular among tourists.

Do’s and Don’ts of Vienna

Here are some do’s and don’ts to consider during your trip to Vienna:

Do:

  • Visit Local Markets: The city’s markets are lively and colorful, and you can find some incredible local foods, crafts, and souvenirs.

  • Explore the City’s Coffee Culture: Viennese coffeehouses are a must-visit, so take some time to relax and enjoy a cup of coffee with some authentic Viennese pastries.

Don’t:

  • Don’t Smoke in Public Places: Smoking in public places is strictly prohibited in Vienna.

  • Don’t Under Tip: Tipping is customary in restaurants and cafes, so leave a small tip to show appreciation to the staff.

Safety and Health

Vienna is a relatively safe city, with low crime rates and adequate healthcare facilities. Here are some safety and health tips to keep in mind during your visit:

Safety in Vienna

  • Always keep an eye on your belongings and valuables, especially in crowded areas.

  • Avoid unlit and deserted areas at night.

Health in Vienna

  • Vienna has a well-equipped healthcare system, and getting medical assistance is not an issue in case of emergencies.

  • Don’t forget to buy travel insurance that covers healthcare expenses and emergencies.

Getting to Vienna: Transportation Options and Logistics

Vienna is well-connected to other European cities and has several transportation options available.

Airports Near Vienna

  • Vienna International Airport is the primary airport serving the city, located approximately 17km from the city center.

  • Bratislava Airport is another airport near Vienna, located approximately 57km away.

Bus Stations Near Vienna

  • Vienna International Bus Terminal is the main bus terminal in Vienna, offering regional, national and international bus services.

Other Options

  • Rail: Vienna has an extensive railway network, and trains are an excellent option for travel within the country and neighboring countries.

How to Get Around in Vienna

Vienna has a well-developed public transportation system, including trams, buses, metros, and trains. You can also choose to rent a bike or use taxis and ride-hailing apps like Uber or Bolt.

Where to Go Next from Vienna: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Vienna is an ideal base for exploring several nearby destinations and excursion options. Here are a few places you can visit:

  • Budapest, Hungary: Approximately 2.5 hours away by train, Budapest is a beautiful city with stunning architecture, fascinating history, and famous thermal baths.

  • Bratislava, Slovakia: Located less than an hour from Vienna, Bratislava is a small but charming city with an attractive old town and a rich cultural heritage.

Conclusion

Vienna is the perfect destination for travelers interested in history, culture, art, and cuisine. With its stunning architecture, beautiful parks, and vibrant nightlife, it is easy to fall in love with this city. Whether you want a relaxing family holiday or an adventurous trip with friends, Vienna has all the ingredients for the perfect vacation.