Begin your trip with a visit to Vienna's Ringstrasse Boulevard, a 5.3-kilometer long road that surrounds the historic center. Here, you'll be able to see some of Vienna's most famous landmarks, including City Hall, the State Opera House, and Parliament Building. Take a break at the Volksgarten, a beautiful public park with a rose garden and statue of Johann Strauss II. Walk towards St. Stephen's Cathedral, the city’s most famous landmark. Climb the 343 steps to the top and take in panoramic views of Vienna. Afterward, enjoy an authentic Viennese lunch at Figlmüller Wollzeile, known for its traditional schnitzel, before heading to the Kunsthistorisches Museum to see artifacts and art from ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome.
On your second day, visit Schönbrunn Palace, the former summer residence of the imperial family and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the palace's many rooms, which include original furniture and artwork. Be sure to take a guided tour of the palace gardens to learn about the exotic plant species and hidden buildings and monuments. After lunch, take a short ride to Belvedere Palace, home to the world's largest collection of Gustav Klimt paintings, including the famous golden portrait, "The Kiss". Alternatively, visit the Hofburg Palace and its famous Spanish Riding School, where you can watch the beautiful Lipizzaner horses practice their precision riding.
If you have more time, consider visiting the Naschmarkt, Vienna's largest outdoor market with over 100 food and flea market vendors. For less time, skip Belvedere Palace and visit the Museum Quarter for contemporary art and Viennese coffee culture. If traveling during the summer months, be sure to book a concert or opera performance at the Vienna State Opera House in advance. Lastly, don't forget to try a traditional Viennese pastry, such as a Sachertorte or Apfelstrudel.