Summary
The capital of Austria is home to approximately one third of the country’s population and serves as its principal city. This metropolitan center houses the United Nations and acts as a major hub for Austria’s culture, economy, and politics. With various nicknames like the City of Music and the City of Dreams, Vienna is recognized globally and features a multitude of impressive historical edifices, gardens, and cultural venues.
Ranked as one of the most livable cities globally, where residents experience a high quality of life, Vienna is a sanctuary in central Europe and remains a favored tourist destination. The following are the top recommendations for must-see attractions in Vienna, providing ample information to assist with your planning.
1. Schönbrunn Palace
Established in the 1600s and holding significant cultural importance in Austria, Schönbrunn Palace is a vast 1441-room structure and the primary tourist attraction in Vienna.
The Habsburg dynasty has resided here for many centuries, and emperors of Austria were even born within its confines.
The palace is a grand edifice designed in the Baroque style, characterized by a symmetrical main building adorned with numerous windows and rooftop statues.
Inside the palace, visitors may explore a variety of fully furnished and decorated rooms, experiencing how Austrian royalty once lived.
2. Hofburg Palace
The Hofburg Palace represents another grand palatial complex that pays homage to the power and influence of the Habsburg dynasty, serving as the principal winter residence for the rulers of the Austro-Hungarian Empire over centuries.
Currently, the complex accommodates the offices of the President of Austria and functions as a presidential residence.
Since its establishment in the 13th century, the buildings have experienced numerous expansions, with the most remarkable being the splendid semi-circular Neue Burg.
Visitors may admire the architectural beauty and style of the Baroque design, embark on guided tours through the imperial apartments, or visit one of the well-curated museums within the complex.
3. St Stephen’s Cathedral
This monumental structure proudly stands in the Stephansplatz and has been the most significant church in Vienna and Austria since its inauguration.
The beauty of the building is striking, with its towering steeple dominating the Vienna skyline as the tallest church spire in Austria.
Every aspect of St Stephen’s Cathedral exudes opulence—from the Romanesque and Gothic architectural style of the exterior to the soaring pointed tower and the intricately decorated main roof embellished with hundreds of colored tiles displaying an intriguing pattern.
Inside the cathedral, visitors will find a total of 18 altars, several smaller chapels, alongside tombs and catacombs.
As an emblematic construction of Vienna, St Stephen’s Cathedral is an essential visit!
4. Schonbrunn Gardens
As another splendid aspect of the Schönbrunn Palace Complex, the gardens are enchanting and warrant a visit in their own right.
The park extends over a kilometer from the palace, offering hours of exploration through its diverse sections and displays.
Stroll through the Parterre and admire the perfectly arranged flower beds, or lose yourself in the beautiful hedge maze and labyrinth; Neptune’s fountain serves as a striking piece of artistry, and an artificial Roman ruin complete with stone sculptures adds charm.
The highlight of this scenario is the Gloriette, positioned across from the palace, featuring a pool and a classical colonnaded structure—ideal for enjoying a drink at the café or simply reveling in the expansive views of the gardens.
5. Rathaus
Vienna boasts an array of historical and culturally significant architecture, and the Town Hall located on Rathausplatz is a notable addition to this collection.
A relatively modern addition to the city, the Rathaus was constructed in the 1800s in a Neo-Gothic style to accommodate the offices of the mayor for its growing population.
Similar in design to the town hall in Brussels, the Rathaus features five towers, the largest of which is crowned by the iconic Rathausmann statue.
Guided tours of the Town Hall’s interior are available on specific days, offering a worthwhile experience to witness the extravagant decor of the rooms.
6. Tiergarten Schonbrunn (Vienna Zoo)
Situated within the grounds of Schönbrunn Palace, the Tiergarten Zoo is the oldest zoo globally, promoting species preservation and educational efforts.
Initially established as a menagerie, the zoo contains several original structures from that period, complemented by modern facilities that create a pleasant environment for visitors.
Home to a wide array of animals, from endangered giant pandas to giraffes, sea lions, and sloths, the zoo offers numerous daily talks from knowledgeable zookeepers, alongside a simulated Amazon rainforest habitat.
As far as zoos go, Vienna Zoo ranks among the finest internationally, demonstrating the exceptional care provided to its animal residents.
7. Belvedere Museum
This expansive palatial complex and its gardens are divided into Upper and Lower Belvedere and were previously a summer residence for Austrian princes in the 1600s.
The two palaces feature stunning architecture, standing impressively within the gardens—Upper Belvedere boasts a detailed façade with green domed towers, while Lower Belvedere presents a simpler design, both facing the exquisite gardens.
The Belvedere Museum offers immense collections of artwork alongside beautifully decorated state rooms within the two palaces, amid sweeping landscaped gardens with pools and an orangery.
8. Vienna State Opera
Opera and exquisite architecture are synonymous with Vienna, and the Vienna State Opera epitomizes these qualities.
This remarkable building, centrally located in the Innere Stadt district, is regarded as one of the premier opera houses worldwide.
The exterior features a Neo-Renaissance style distinguished by its numerous arches and arched windows, while the opulent interior evokes the ambiance of a palace more so than a traditional venue of musical performance.
Daily guided tours lasting approximately 40 minutes are conducted, providing an insightful overview of this exceptional structure.
9. Vienna Natural History Museum
Situated in a sophisticated palace that exemplifies historical architecture in Vienna, the Natural History Museum houses an extensive collection including minerals, precious stones, meteorites, fossils, animal skeletons, and displays of various insects and mammals, along with taxidermy of extinct species.
With over 30 million items, this museum’s collection ranks among Europe’s most significant, with new exhibits continuously added.
This captivating venue features a digital planetarium, offering intriguing films about Earth’s development and its features.
10. Prater Amusement Park
What could be a more delightful method to experience Vienna than spending a fun-filled day at the Prater Amusement Park? The Wiener Prater Park, formerly a hunting ground, has evolved into an inviting public space with food stands and amusement stalls; it now features an impressive amusement park with free entry (individual rides incur charges). Inside the park, a plethora of rides and attractions await, including a giant Ferris wheel, bumper cars, carousels, and exhilarating roller coasters.
Additionally, there are shooting ranges, a wax museum, and a light railway to ensure ongoing entertainment.
If thrilling rides do not suit your interests, various restaurants and cafés within the park provide the opportunity to relax and enjoy the scenery.
11. The Spanish Riding School
Reputed as one of the premier institutions for classical dressage globally, The Spanish Riding School has established a prestigious tradition in Austria, specializing in training horses in the art of dressage for centuries.
Constructed during the Habsburg Monarchy, the building has remained a significant landmark ever since.
The establishment welcomes visitors, allowing them to observe demonstrations and, in some instances, training sessions.
For equestrian enthusiasts, this venue is a must-see in Vienna—non-riders can also appreciate the dedication and artistry integral to this discipline.
12. Donauturm (Viewing Tower)
Standing at 252 meters, the Donauturm ranks among the tallest 75 free-standing towers in the world and serves as an observation tower in the Donaustadt district of Vienna.
Its distinctive structure contrasts with Vienna’s predominantly low-rise skyline, making it easily identifiable; the tower accommodates radio transmitters and cell phone antennas, two revolving restaurants, an observation platform, and even a bungee jumping platform.
This tower offers a unique and exhilarating perspective of Vienna, explaining its popularity among visitors.
13. Naschmarkt
Markets often serve as defining features of a city, representing its heritage and culture while providing engaging experiences that offer visitors authentic insights into local life.
The Naschmarkt, situated along Wienzeile street and extending approximately 1.5 kilometers, brims with stalls offering everything from fresh fruits and vegetables to herbs, cheeses, and seafood.
The lively atmosphere, accompanied by enticing sounds, sights, and smells, renders it a famous destination internationally due to its grand scale.
14. Vienna Ring Road
The elegant Ring Road encircling the Innere Stadt district of Vienna was specifically designed in the 19th century following the dismantling of the city walls.
It showcases eclectic architectural styles and is lined with many notable buildings.
The road is spacious and framed by the city’s tram line, retaining its significance as a primary mode of transport; several segments are bordered by trees, making it an excellent route for cycling.
Walking portions of the Ring Road offers a deeper appreciation for its historical significance and the magnificent buildings that adorn it.
15. Vienna Woods
Located at the base of the Northern Limestone Alps, the Vienna Woods lies west of the city and covers an area of approximately 45 kilometers.
Various rivers delineate the boundaries of the Wienerwald, making it a popular retreat for both locals and tourists eager to experience the beautiful Austrian countryside.
The woods are filled with hidden treasures, ranging from underground boat rides (Seegrotte) to hunting lodges and charming villages that remain largely untouched by the urban expanse of Vienna.
Tour companies offer half-day excursions, or you could devise your own itinerary, as the opportunities for exploration in this captivating part of Austria are endless.
