Experience Vienna in 3 Days: A City Itinerary

• Day 1: Visit the St. Stephen's Cathedral and climb up its tower for an incredible view of the city. Then, continue to the Hofburg Palace, where you can explore the Imperial Apartments and learn about the Habsburg dynasty that once ruled Austria. End your day with a stroll through the Belvedere Palace, admiring its Baroque architecture and its famous art collection.
• Day 2: Start your day early by visiting the Vienna State Opera, an impressive building where you can attend a performance or simply take a tour. Next, walk to the Naschmarkt, a bustling open-air market where you can taste local food and buy souvenirs. In the afternoon, head to the Museum Quarter and explore its many museums and galleries, such as the Leopold Museum and the MUMOK.
• Day 3: Begin your day with a visit to the Schönbrunn Palace, another imperial palace with beautiful gardens and a zoo. Afterwards, take a walk around the Old Town, where you will find many historic buildings and squares, such as the Stadtpark and the Karlskirche. End your day with a visit to Prater, a funfair with rides, attractions, and street food.

Time and Costs Estimates

• St. Stephen's Cathedral (1-2 hours, free)
• Hofburg Palace (2-3 hours, €14.20 for adults)
• Belvedere Palace (2-3 hours, €22 for adults)
• Vienna State Opera (1-2 hours, €9 for adults)
• Naschmarkt (1-2 hours, free)
• Museum Quarter (2-3 hours, €16 for adults)
• Schönbrunn Palace (3-4 hours, €14.20 for adults)
• Old Town (2-3 hours, free)
• Prater (2-3 hours, costs vary by attraction)
Total Estimated Costs: €76.40

Transportation

Vienna has an efficient public transportation system that includes buses, trams, and metros. Consider buying a 72-hour Vienna Card, which gives you unlimited access to public transport and discounts on many attractions. A 3-day Vienna Card costs €21.90 and can be purchased at the airport or any information booth.

Travel time between attractions varies, but expect to spend around 20-30 minutes on average.

Useful Tips

If you have more time, consider visiting the Hundertwasserhaus, a colorful apartment building designed by artist Friedensreich Hundertwasser, or taking a Danube river cruise. If you have less time, prioritize the three imperial palaces (Hofburg, Belvedere, and Schönbrunn) and the Old Town.