Spend the morning exploring the impressive gardens and Baroque architecture of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Schönbrunn Palace. The palace has a fascinating history dating back to the Habsburg dynasty and is considered one of the most important cultural monuments in Austria.
For lunch, head to the popular Naschmarkt, Vienna's largest and oldest food market. Here, you can find a variety of international and Austrian delicacies, as well as vintage and antique items at the flea market.
In the afternoon, visit another impressive palace, the Belvedere Palace. This beautiful complex houses many works of art, including the famous painting "The Kiss" by Gustav Klimt, and offers stunning views of Vienna from its gardens.
Finish the day admiring the Gothic architecture of St. Stephen's Cathedral in the heart of Vienna's Old Town. The Cathedral is one of the most important and popular landmarks in Vienna that has served as the center of Vienna's religious life for centuries.
Spend the morning exploring the grandeur and history of the Hofburg Palace. Visit the Imperial Apartments, the Sisi Museum, and the Silver Collection. And don’t forget to watch the Lipizzaner Stallions perform at the Spanish Riding School nearby.
Have lunch at the MuseumsQuartier, one of the world’s largest culture and art complexes that offers a wide range of restaurants, cafes, and bars. Since you're here, take some time to explore the museums and exhibitions that are on display.
In the afternoon, visit the Vienna State Opera, one of the world's leading opera houses known for its premieres of beloved operas, world-class productions, and elegant architecture. Take a guided tour inside or enjoy an opera performance in the evening.
Vienna's public transportation system is efficient and convenient, making it easy to get to all the sights on this itinerary. The best way to get around is by using the U-Bahn (subway) or tram. You can buy tickets at any station, or download a mobile ticketing app for your smartphone. A single trip costs €2.40 and is valid for 90 minutes. A 48-hour pass is also available for €14.10.
If you have more time in Vienna, consider taking a day trip to Bratislava, the capital of Slovakia, just an hour away by boat along the Danube River. Alternatively, if you have less time, you can skip some of the museums or opt for a shorter visit to the palace gardens.
Vienna International Airport (VIE) is the main airport serving Vienna, located about 18 km southeast of the city center. The airport has excellent transport links to the city via train, bus, and taxi. You can catch a train from the airport to the city center for about €4.20, which takes about 15 minutes. There is also a City Airport Train (CAT) that goes directly to the city for €12 and takes 16 minutes.