Start your trip by visiting one of Vienna's most iconic landmarks. St. Stephen's Cathedral, also known as Stephansplatz, is a stunning Gothic cathedral with vibrant tiled roofs, intricate details, and stunning views of the city. Be sure to take a guided tour to learn about the history behind the cathedral's construction.
Discover the grandeur of Austria's imperial past by visiting Schonbrunn Palace, the former summer residence of Emperor Franz Joseph I and Empress Elisabeth. The palace boasts 1,441 rooms, beautifully manicured gardens, and fascinating exhibits. Be sure to visit the Gloriette, an arch-shaped building with panoramic views of Vienna.
Explore the seat of power for centuries of the Habsburg dynasty at Hofburg Palace. This sprawling palace boasts multiple buildings and museums, including the Imperial Apartments, the Sisi Museum, and the famed Spanish Riding School. Take a tour to learn about the history of the palace and the lives of the emperors and empresses who called it home.
Take in some of Europe's finest art at the Belvedere Palace. This stunning baroque palace houses the Austrian Gallery, featuring works from esteemed artists such as Gustav Klimt and Egon Schiele. Take a guided tour to learn about the rich art collections and the palace's fascinating history.
Take a break from the grandeur of the palaces and discover the vibrant Naschmarkt. This open-air market boasts over 100 stalls selling fresh produce, meats, cheeses, spices, and more. It's also home to numerous cafes, bakeries, and restaurants serving a wide variety of cuisines.
Experience the cultural heart of Vienna by attending a performance at the Vienna Opera House. This stunning venue is home to the Vienna State Opera and the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra, showcasing some of the world's finest classical music and opera. Don't forget to dress up for a truly magical evening.
End your trip with some fun and excitement at the Prater Park. This amusement park boasts over 250 attractions, including roller coasters, Ferris wheels, bumper cars, and more. It's also home to the iconic Riesenrad Ferris wheel, which offers breathtaking views of Vienna's skyline.
Travel in Vienna is convenient and affordable, with an excellent public transportation system. The Vienna U-Bahn metro, trams, and buses are punctual, safe, and cover the city's major destinations. A single-ride ticket costs 2.40€, while a 24-hour ticket costs 8€. It's also possible to rent bikes or take taxi cabs, though they tend to be more expensive.
If you have extra time, consider visiting the Prunksaal Library, the Danube Tower, or walking along the Danube River. If you have less time, shorten some visits or opt for fewer attractions in exchange for taking your time relaxing or exploring the city off the beaten path. Some other neighborhoods worth exploring are the trendy Mariahilf and the student-friendly Neubau.
The main airport serving Vienna and its surrounding regions is the Vienna International Airport (VIE), located 18km southeast of the city center. There are several transport options, including trains, buses, taxis, and rental cars to travel to and from the airport. Wien-Schwechat train station is located underneath Terminal 3, providing a direct connection to the Vienna City Center in 15 minutes.