3 Days in Vienna Itinerary (Ultimate Guide + Map)

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If you’re planning a trip to Vienna, this 3-day itinerary has everything you need for a great first visit. It takes you to all the must-see spots (Hofburg, Schönbrunn, and the classic coffeehouses), plus a few hidden gems you won’t find mentioned everywhere else. I’ll also tell you which sights actually need advance tickets, so you’re not stuck in a queue for hours when you could have booked ahead.

You’ll find my favourite coffeehouses, the best spots for authentic Wiener Schnitzel, and where to enjoy a classical concert without paying tourist-trap prices. I’ve also included some great day trips to Melk Abbey, Bratislava, and Hallstatt right after the 3-day itinerary.

Vienna is one of my all-time favourite cities in Europe. It was one of the first cities I visited on my own, without an organised tour, and I loved it so much that I rarely go a year without visiting. I love its imperial look, grand buildings, gorgeous palaces, and traditional coffeehouses. And, of course, the food is amazing too (if you know where to eat and which tourist traps to avoid).

💖 My favourite hotel in Vienna: Das Tyrol Hotel
⭐ Rating: 9.4 | 1,170+ reviews
Location: on the edge of the historic city centre, within easy walking distance of the main sights
What I loved: quiet modern rooms, great private spa with sauna

To be honest, Vienna has changed a lot since my first visit years ago. Now, it’s a much more popular destination than it was back then. Don’t expect to walk straight into Schönbrunn Palace or the Spanish Riding School without booking ahead. Many popular attractions and classical concerts sell out days in advance during the high season, so book your tickets early.

Vienna Tourist Map + PDF

Here’s an interactive tourist map of this 3-day Vienna itinerary, complete with attractions, hotels and restaurant links. You can also download a PDF version of the itinerary.

3 Days in Vienna itinerary – Day 1

Morning

Breakfast at Parémi

Duration: 40 min 🕒 08:30 AM – 09:10 AM

Start your day with breakfast at Parémi, a fantastic bakery just steps away from the famous St. Stephen’s Cathedral. It’s one of my go-to spots for breakfast in the city. Their croissants, especially the almond, pistachio, and ham-and-cheese ones, are absolutely delicious.

Another great breakfast spot is Café Blütezeit. This cosy vegetarian café serves delicious superfood bowls and avocado toasts. It’s perfect if you’re looking to start your day on a healthier note.

St. Stephen’s Cathedral

Duration: 30 min 🕒 09:15 AM – 09:45 AM

St. Stephen’s Cathedral (or Stephansdom) is one of Vienna’s most iconic landmarks. Located in the heart of the city, it’s a stunning example of Gothic architecture. The cathedral was originally built in the 12th century, but the structure you see today mostly dates back to the 15th century.

The most striking feature of St. Stephen’s is its colourful, patterned roof made up of more than 230,000 glazed tiles. It’s an impressive sight, especially when you’re walking around the Stephansplatz square. Inside, I found the cathedral gorgeous, with beautiful stained glass windows and a baroque altar.

It’s free to enter the cathedral, but there’s a fee to visit some restricted areas. The St. Stephen’s Cathedral & Dom Museum Ticket gives you access to parts of the cathedral that aren’t open to the public. This includes the South and North Towers, the catacombs, the treasury, and the cathedral museum.

The cathedral’s South Tower, standing at an impressive 136 meters (446 feet), is the tallest church tower in Austria. If you’re up for it, you can climb the 343 steps to the top for a panoramic view of Vienna, it’s totally worth the effort! Alternatively, you can take the elevator to the top of the North Tower to see the large bell (Pummerin) up close.

Beneath the cathedral, you’ll find the catacombs. These underground chambers were used as burial places for bishops, nobles, and even plague victims. You can only visit the catacombs with a guide (tours run once an hour from Friday to Sunday). I’ve done the tour myself, and I found it really interesting and definitely worth it.

The free visit to the cathedral, which I’ve included in this itinerary, takes about 30 minutes. If you decide to buy the all-inclusive ticket, you’ll need around 2-3 hours to explore everything. So, if you choose this option, make sure you have enough time.

Imperial Palace

Duration: 1 h 50 min 🕒 10:00 AM – 11:50 AM

The Imperial Palace (Hofburg) is one of the city’s most impressive landmarks and a must-see when visiting the capital of Austria. For over 600 years, it was the heart of the Habsburg dynasty. It served as their imperial residence from the 13th century until the end of World War I. Today, the palace houses several museums, with the most famous being the Imperial Apartments and the Sisi Museum. You can explore both of these sites with one ticket, the Day Ticket Sisi Museum.

🎟️ Book in advance: lines are often long, so secure your ticket now
Best guided tour: Imperial Palace Highlights Guided Tour – uncover the secrets of the Hofburg with a guided tour of the Imperial Apartments and the Sisi Museum (free cancellation)
Entry ticket: Skip-the-line Imperial Palace (official website – non-refundable tickets)

The Imperial Apartments offer a glimpse into the life of the Habsburgs. The rooms are decorated in opulent 19th-century style, with exquisite furnishings and personal items belonging to the royal family. The Sisi Museum is all about Empress Elisabeth, known as Sisi. It covers her life, from her beauty routine and passion for travel to the more tragic parts of her story.

Lunch at Trześniewski

Duration: 1 h 10 min 🕒 12:00 PM – 01:10 PM

For lunch, make your way to Trześniewski. This spot has been serving up tasty open-faced sandwiches (Brötchen) since 1902. They use freshly baked rye bread and offer a variety of delicious spreads. Some of my personal favourites are the truffle egg with ham, chicken liver, bacon with egg, and mushrooms. Don’t forget to pair it with a small Pfiff beer, it’s the perfect match for the size of the sandwiches.

Book your tickets in advance (or you won’t get in)

Afternoon

Kunsthistorisches Museum

Duration: 2 h 🕒 01:30 PM – 03:30 PM

The Kunsthistorisches Museum is one of the world’s most famous art museums. But trust me, there’s so much more to discover beyond the art! Set in a grand building on the Ringstrasse, the museum is home to an incredible collection that spans thousands of years of art history. I was especially taken by the stunning main staircase, decorated with paintings by Gustav Klimt. Plus, the café-restaurant is gorgeous and perfect for a break during your visit.

🎟️ Book in advance: lines are often long, so secure your ticket now
Entry ticket: Skip-the-line Kunsthistorisches Museum (skip the crowds, with free cancellation)

I recommend booking through GetYourGuide. The price is the same as on the official website, but you can cancel for free, while official tickets can’t be changed or refunded. For me, that makes GetYourGuide the safer option.

The museum’s Old Masters Picture Gallery features works by artists like Vermeer, Rembrandt, Raphael, Velázquez and Titian. I was truly impressed to see Bruegel’s The Tower of Babel in person. You’ll also find incredible collections of ancient Egyptian artefacts and Greek and Roman sculptures.

Be sure to check out their gift shop as well, it has some amazing pieces. I ended up getting a gorgeous pair of earrings and a gold-plated necklace that I absolutely love!

Vienna City Hall

Duration: 15 min 🕒 03:45 PM – 04:00 PM

Located on Rathausplatz, the City Hall (Rathaus) is one of the city’s most impressive buildings. Built in the 19th century, it’s a stunning example of the Neo-Gothic style. The tower, standing at 98 meters (322 feet), is one of the tallest in Vienna, and you can spot it from almost anywhere in the city.

Here’s a fun fact: The Rathaus has nothing to do with rats, despite the name sounding like it’s the headquarters of some kind of rodent society. The word Rat in German actually means council. However, imagine if Vienna had a real rat-themed city hall. Maybe it would have little suits and ties for its rodent council members, with cheese platters at every meeting! But no, the Rathaus is all about politics, not pest control.

You can visit the City Hall, but tours only run three times a week (you can find more details here). Personally, I’d recommend just admiring the building from the outside, especially if you have only 3 days in Vienna.

Dinner at Griechenbeisl

Finish your day with dinner at Griechenbeisl. It is one of the oldest restaurants in Vienna, dating back to 1447! This traditional Austrian tavern has served everyone from Mozart and Beethoven to Mark Twain and Luciano Pavarotti. The interior has that classic, old-world charm with wooden beams, dim lighting, and walls covered in signatures from famous guests.

I never skip Griechenbeisl when I’m in the city, it’s one of my favourite spots for authentic Viennese food. In fact, you can probably tell how good this restaurant is from the fact that I recently made a long layover in Vienna on my way from Portugal to Bulgaria just to eat here. I always get their Wiener Schnitzel with potato salad, and the Kaiserschmarrn is a must-try, too.

Best Vienna Tours & Experiences

3 Days in Vienna itinerary – Day 2

Morning

Spanish Riding School

Duration: 1 h 40 min 🕒 10:00 AM – 11:40 AM

The Spanish Riding School is a traditional school for Lipizzaner horses with over 450 years of history. It takes its name from the Andalusian horses brought to Austria from Spain. But the real stars here are the Lipizzaner horses, known for their graceful, elegant movements. They’re trained in a style that has been passed down for centuries.

The Spanish Riding School puts on regular performances, including the iconic morning exercises and the gala performances. It’s an experience you definitely don’t want to miss! The shows take place at the stunning Winter Riding School (Winterreitschule) in Hofburg, a gorgeous Baroque hall.

🎟️ Book in advance: lines are often long, so secure your ticket now
Morning Exercise Spanish Riding School – basic relaxation exercises, no jumps
Gala Performance Spanish Riding School – a full show with jumps and advanced manoeuvres
Spanish Riding School Guided Tour – learn more about the horses’ lives and even visit them in their stables

If you’re mainly interested in seeing the horses, the Morning Exercise is a good choice. Just know that the horses do basic exercises without jumps. A lot of tourists buy this ticket expecting a full gala performance and end up disappointed. You can even see it in the reviews, which is why the rating is low.

So, if you’re after a real show, I recommend booking the Gala Performance (held every Saturday and Sunday). You can also join the Spanish Riding School Guided Tour, where you’ll learn about the horses’ lives and even get a peek at them in their stables.

And again, my tip is to book through GetYourGuide. It’s the same price, but you get free cancellation, which the official website doesn’t offer.

Lunch at Gerstner K. u. K. Hofzuckerbäcker

Duration: 1 h 30 min 🕒 12:00 PM – 01:30 PM

Vienna’s café culture is something I just had to experience, and I knew a visit to one of its cafés was non-negotiable. While Café Central is the most famous, I opted for a lesser-known spot with a more spectacular atmosphere. Plus, I wanted to avoid the tourist crowds that are typical at Café Central.

Founded in 1847, Gerstner K. u. K. Hofzuckerbäcker is one of Vienna’s most iconic pastry shops. They were once the official pastry supplier to the imperial court, a title reflected in their name. The K. u. K. stands for Kaiserlich und Königlich, meaning Imperial and Royal.

Gerstner K. u. K. Hofzuckerbäcker is housed in a beautiful historic building, just a short walk from the State Opera. The interior is so elegant, with high ceilings, marble counters, and stunning chandeliers that make you feel like royalty. Besides the delicious cakes, they offer a variety of sandwiches and classic Austrian dishes like schnitzel and beef goulash. My personal favourite is the Klimt cake, but the Sachertorte is also absolutely fantastic.

I’d definitely recommend booking a table at the Café-Restaurant on the 2nd floor (the one with the beautifully decorated rooms) a few months ahead of time. I’ve visited Gerstner K. u. K. Hofzuckerbäcker twice, and even though I made a reservation two months in advance, it was fully booked at lunchtime. The only slots available were the earliest morning ones.

If you’re in the mood for a more casual lunch, check out Addicted to Rock. Their burgers are made with beef from pasture-fed alpine cattle, and the French fries are fantastic. I also recommend trying the Breaded Brie Cheese with Salad. It was delicious, and that’s coming from someone who isn’t usually a big fan of salads!

Afternoon

St. Charles’s Church

Duration: 45 min 🕒 01:45 PM – 02:30 PM

St. Charles’s Church (Karlskirche) is one of the city’s most impressive Baroque landmarks. Emperor Charles VI had it built between 1716 and 1737 to thank God for ending the plague that had ravaged the city. The church stands out with its huge dome, inspired by St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome, and two large columns, modelled after Trajan’s Column in Rome. Inside, Karlskirche is just as breathtaking. You’ll find beautiful frescoes on the ceiling, depicting scenes from the life of St. Charles Borromeo, the patron saint of the church.

Unlike most churches, there is an entrance fee to visit Karlskirche. In my opinion, it’s totally worth it, the interior is gorgeous. Plus, the ticket includes a ride up the elevator to the top of the dome, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the city.

Belvedere Palace

Duration: 45 min 🕒 02:45 PM – 03:30 PM

Belvedere Palace is one of my favourite places in the city. This stunning Baroque masterpiece
dates back to the 18th century. The palace consists of two grand buildings, the Upper and Lower Belvedere, surrounded by beautiful gardens. Originally, the Belvedere served as a summer residence for Prince Eugene of Savoy, an important military commander.

The Upper Belvedere is home to the world’s largest collection of Gustav Klimt’s paintings, including his iconic masterpiece The Kiss. The Lower Belvedere, once the prince’s private residence, now hosts temporary art exhibitions. You can also explore several beautifully restored rooms, like the stunning Gold Cabinet.

Dinner at Huth Gastwirtschaft

For dinner, check out Huth Gastwirtschaft. I came across this fantastic traditional restaurant on one of my recent trips. Their speciality is Tafelspitz (boiled beef), which was Emperor Franz Joseph’s favourite dish. I highly recommend giving it a try, along with their delicious schnitzel and Kaiserschmarrn.

Another great option for dinner is Wiener Wiazhaus. This family-run restaurant has been serving traditional Austrian food since 1898! And it’s a true local gem, you’ll hardly see any tourists here. Their schnitzel is one of the best in the city, in my opinion! I also love their Zwiebelrostbraten (roast beef with crispy onions) and Wiener Backhendl (fried breaded chicken).

If you’re planning to visit Budapest as well, check out my complete 3-day Budapest itinerary. It covers the best things to see and do, plus some of my favourite brunch spots and local restaurants.

3 Days in Vienna itinerary – Day 3

Morning

Breakfast at Joseph Brot

Duration: 40 min 🕒 08:40 AM – 09:20 AM

Start your last day with breakfast at Joseph Brot, a lovely organic bakery. While they have several locations, I recommend the one at Führichgasse 6, just a 5-minute walk from the Karlsplatz metro station. From there, you can catch the U4 line to Schönbrunn Palace. At Joseph Brot, you can enjoy delicious sandwiches, pastries, and egg dishes.

Schönbrunn Palace

Duration: 2 h 15 min 🕒 10:00 AM – 12:15 PM

Schönbrunn Palace (Schloss Schönbrunn) served as the summer residence of the Habsburg emperors. Construction started in 1696 during the reign of Emperor Leopold I. However, it was in the 18th century, under Empress Maria Theresa, that the palace truly came to life. She made it her primary residence and completely transformed both the palace and its gardens into the stunning site we see today.

The palace is truly magnificent, with 1,441 rooms, though only a small part is open to the public. Each room is beautifully decorated, giving you a real sense of the opulence of the Habsburg court. Personally, I think the highlight is the Great Gallery, with its breathtaking frescoes, along with the Hall of Ceremonies. And if you’re into history, don’t miss the Imperial Carriage Museum. The museum features an impressive collection of carriages once used by the Habsburgs.

🎟️ Book in advance: lines are often long, so secure your ticket now
Best guided tour: Schönbrunn Palace Highlights Guided Tour – discover the history of the Habsburgs as you explore the palace and its gardens with a guide (free cancellation)
Entry ticket: Skip-the-line Schönbrunn Palace (official website – non-refundable tickets)

If you opt for a self-guided tour, there are different types of tickets, depending on how many rooms you want to visit. I’d recommend booking the Palace Ticket, which includes everything. You’ll get to explore over 40 rooms, from Franz Joseph and Elisabeth’s private apartments to the State Apartments and Maria Theresa’s rooms.

You can also catch an Apple Strudel Show, where you’ll get to see how the classic Viennese apple strudel is made. And the best part – a warm, delicious piece of strudel awaits you at the end of the show!

Another highlight is the beautiful gardens. As you stroll through, you’ll discover a maze, the privy garden, the orangery, and the Gloriette, a hilltop structure offering stunning views of the palace. I loved the fearless squirrels there, they’ll gladly take nuts right from your hand!

The gardens are free to wander through, but if you want to visit the maze, orangery, and Gloriette, you’ll need tickets. To see it all, I’d suggest getting the Classic Pass, which covers the Schönbrunn Palace, Privy Garden, Orangery Garden, Maze and Gloriette. In this itinerary, I’ve included a visit to the palace (with the Palace Ticket) and a quick stroll around the gardens. Allow about 2 hours for the whole visit. But if you’re planning to check out everything using the Classic Pass, you’ll need about 4-5 hours.

Lunch at Maxingstüberl

Duration: 1 h 30 min 🕒 12:30 PM – 02:00 PM

For lunch, I highly recommend Maxingstüberl. This cosy spot has been around since 1805 and has hosted famous guests like Emperor Franz Josef and Johann Strauss! The atmosphere feels like stepping into Old Vienna, and their traditional Austrian dishes are spot on. Make sure to try their Veal cream goulash and Wiener Schnitzel, they’re both so delicious!

Afternoon

🎟️ Book in advance: lines are often long, so secure your ticket now
Entry ticket: Skip-the-line Giant Ferris Wheel (skip the crowds, with free cancellation)

This ticket lets you skip the first line (for purchasing tickets), which is usually very long. However, keep in mind that you’ll still need to wait in a second line to board the Viennese Giant Ferris Wheel. And of course, book with GetYourGuide if you want free cancellation. The price is the same as the official website, but you get the added flexibility to cancel for free.

Dinner at Gasthaus Pöschl

End your last day with a dinner at Gasthaus Pöschl, a classic spot for authentic Viennese dishes. I discovered it on my first trip when I was craving something other than schnitzel. Since then, I’ve returned several times, and the food is always fantastic. I’d definitely recommend their Wiener schnitzel, Tafelspitz (boiled beef), and the tortelloni with ricotta. They also have an excellent wine list, with a great selection of wines by the glass.

Another fantastic place for classic Austrian cuisine is Restaurant Pürstner. It’s actually one of my favourite spots for a traditional Wiener schnitzel. The atmosphere is cosy and rustic, with antique wooden furniture that adds to the charm. The place is quite popular, so I’d highly recommend making a reservation in advance. Without one, it can be almost impossible to get a table.

Classical music concert

Duration: 2 h

For me, no trip to Vienna would be complete without attending a classical music concert. The city is famous for being the world capital of music! Hearing its iconic music live in one of its historic venues is an experience I’ll never forget.

For a truly special experience, I’d recommend the Mozart Concert at the Golden Hall. You’ll hear some of Mozart’s greatest symphonies, performed by the Wiener Mozart Orchester, all dressed in historical costumes and wigs. The concert takes place in the Golden Hall of Musikverein, one of the best concert halls in the world. Just keep in mind that the dress code is smart casual.

If you’re looking for a more casual concert, Vivaldi’s Four Seasons concert in Karlskirche is a great choice. The performance is by Orchestra 1756, a classical period instrument ensemble, and the venue is breathtaking. Karlskirche is a gorgeous church with stunning frescoes that add to the experience. The dress code is smart casual, though when I went, some people didn’t quite follow it, and they were still let in. But I’d still suggest avoiding sweatpants and bright gym shoes.

For more concert options, check out my complete guide to the best concerts in Vienna.

Where to stay in Vienna (My top picks)

Already booked your hotel? Take a look at my guide on where to stay in Vienna to make sure it’s in a convenient location for sightseeing.

More things to do in Vienna in 3 days

Mozart Monument

Duration: 10 min

The Mozart Statue in Burggarten is the city’s most famous monument dedicated to the legendary composer. What makes it even more special is the floral treble clef in front of it.

Albertina

Duration: 2 h

Originally a palace, the Albertina was home to the Habsburg rulers for over 100 years. Today, it’s a must-see art museum! With over 1 million works of art, the museum features pieces by iconic artists like Monet, Picasso, Dürer, and Rembrandt. It also has one of the largest graphic art collections in the world.

One of my favourite things about Albertina is the State Rooms. They’re so beautifully preserved and really give you a glimpse into imperial life. If you’re into art and history, I think the Albertina is a must-see.

You can reserve your tickets for the Albertina here.

Austrian National Library

Duration: 1 h

The Austrian National Library (Österreichische Nationalbibliothek) is one of Europe’s oldest and most impressive libraries. Founded in 1368, it’s located within the Hofburg Palace complex. The real highlight for me was the Prunksaal, or State Hall. This room is an absolute masterpiece of Baroque architecture, with its grand vaulted ceilings, beautiful frescoes, and rows of ancient books.

Your ticket to the library grants access to the State Hall, as well as the Literature, Globe, Papyrus, and Esperanto Museums. However, if you’re only in Vienna for a few days, I’d recommend focusing on the State Hall and skipping the other museums.

Imperial Crypt

Duration: 1 h

If you’re into Austrian royal history like I am, the Imperial Crypt (Kaisergruft) is a must-visit. Located beneath the Capuchin Church (Kapuzinerkirche), it’s the final resting place of the Habsburg dynasty. Around 150 members of the family are buried here, including Emperor Franz Joseph I and Empress Elisabeth (Sisi).

Museum of Military History

Duration: 2 h

If you’re into history, make sure to add the Museum of Military History (Heeresgeschichtliches Museum) to your list. The museum occupies a beautiful Baroque building that was once part of the military complex used by the Habsburgs. It takes you through Austria’s military history from the Middle Ages all the way to the Cold War.

I was really impressed by the collection – over 1,000 items, including weapons, uniforms, medals, and more. One of the most striking things to see is the car in which Archduke Franz Ferdinand was assassinated in 1914, triggering World War I.

Imperial Treasury

Duration: 1 h

Within the Hofburg Palace complex, you’ll also find the Imperial Treasury (Kaiserliche Schatzkammer). The museum has treasures from the Austrian monarchy, many of which date back to the Middle Ages and the Holy Roman Empire. You’ll see priceless pieces like the Imperial Crown of the Holy Roman Empire and the Crown Jewels of the Habsburgs. Honestly, it’s one of the city’s most impressive museums in my view, so if you have some extra time, don’t miss it!

You can save money by getting a combo ticket for the Kunsthistorisches Museum and the treasury.

St. Peter’s Church

Duration: 20 min

Hidden on a side street just off the Graben, St. Peter’s Church (Peterskirche) is a stunning Baroque gem. From the outside, it may not seem like much, but step inside, and you’ll be amazed. The interior is absolutely gorgeous, covered with gilded stucco, dramatic frescoes, and marble everywhere you look. Personally, I think it’s the most beautiful church in Vienna.

Clock Museum

Duration: 1 h

The Clock Museum (Uhrmuseum) is another hidden gem. This quirky museum houses over 700 timepieces from the 15th century to the present. It has one of the most impressive clock collections in the world! You’ll find everything from ancient sundials to pocket watches and grand clocks. During my visit, there were barely any other visitors, so I practically had the whole museum to myself.

If you’re interested in the topic, you can also check out the Anchor Clock (Ankeruhr), while you’re in the area. Every day at noon, this beautiful Art Nouveau clock puts on a 5-minute show with 12 historical figures moving in sync to chimes.

Votive Church

Duration: 20 min

I’m a huge fan of Gothic architecture, so I had to visit the Votive Church (Votivkirche). This stunning neo-Gothic masterpiece is just steps away from the Ringstrasse. The church was built in the late 19th century as a gesture of gratitude after an assassination attempt on Emperor Franz Joseph I. The emperor survived, and his brother, Archduke Ferdinand Maximilian, funded the church’s construction to honour the divine intervention. The exterior with its twin spires is stunning, and inside, the vaulted ceilings and stained-glass windows are equally impressive.

Teddy Bear Museum

Duration: 10 min

Although the Teddy Bear Museum is permanently closed, there’s still a small showcase at the original location filled with bears. You’ll find limited editions and pieces from famous manufacturers like Steiff. If you’re a bear lover, it’s definitely worth checking out, and it only takes a few minutes!

Natural History Museum

Duration: 2 h

The Natural History Museum (Naturhistorisches Museum) is right across from the Art History Museum (Kunsthistorisches Museum). Inside, you’ll find over 30 million objects, ranging from prehistoric fossils to meteorites, minerals, and wildlife. Some of my favourite exhibits are the 29,500-year-old Venus of Willendorf statue and the incredible Hall of Dinosaurs.

Schönbrunn Zoo

Duration: 2 h

I’ve been to quite a few zoos during my travels in Europe, but Schönbrunn Zoo (Tiergarten Schönbrunn) is by far the best! Honestly, it’s worth a visit even if you’re not travelling with kids. Founded back in 1752 by Emperor Francis I, it’s one of the oldest zoos in the world. The Schönbrunn Zoo is home to over 700 species, including giant pandas, tigers, elephants, and koalas.

The zoo is nestled within the Schönbrunn Palace Gardens, so you can easily visit both in a day. Just be aware that it’s pretty big, so you’ll want to set aside a couple of hours to see everything!

I recommend buying your zoo ticket in advance since the lines can get really long, especially during the high season.

Museum of Technology

Duration: 2 h

If you’re into science and technology like I am, the Museum of Technology is definitely worth checking out. It’s only a short walk from Schönbrunn Palace, so it’s an easy addition to your day. The museum features some rare and historic collections, including old locomotives, vintage cars, early aircraft, medical instruments, and historic computing devices. I’ve been there three times now, and I always enjoy it. There are so many interactive exhibits that it never feels boring.

Danube Tower

Duration: 1 h

The Danube Tower (Donauturm) offers some of the most stunning views of Vienna and beyond. Standing at 252 meters (827 feet), it’s the tallest spot in the city and one of Austria’s tallest buildings. On a clear day, you can see all the way to the Vienna Woods and the Alps, and even catch a glimpse of Slovakia and Hungary!

I wouldn’t bother booking your tickets in advance, as bad weather could mean you won’t see much. Also, there’s rarely a line since the tower is a bit outside the city centre and away from the main tourist areas.

Vienna Christmas Market

If you’re in Vienna in December, don’t miss the fairytale Christmas markets. The city hosts over 10 markets, with the main ones at the City Hall, St. Stephen’s Cathedral, and Schönbrunn Palace. In my opinion, Vienna has some of the best Christmas markets in all of Europe, so definitely add them to your list!

Find all you need to know in my complete Vienna Christmas Market guide.

Best day trips from Vienna

Hallstatt

Hallstatt is one of Austria’s most famous and picturesque villages. Located in the beautiful Salzkammergut region, it sits between the Dachstein Mountains and Lake Hallstatt. The village is incredibly scenic, with colourful houses lined up along the lake and mountains rising around it. For the best views, I suggest taking the funicular up to the Hallstatt Skywalk. The observation platform gives you an amazing panoramic view of the village, lake, and mountains!

How to get to Hallstatt
Hallstatt is about a 3-hour drive or over 4 hours by train from Vienna, including a train change. That’s why I recommend taking an organised tour to make the trip easier. The Hallstatt & Alpine Peaks Day Trip is one of the most popular and highly rated tours (over 7,000 excellent reviews). It includes a visit to the scenic village of Hallstatt, along with a ride on the Hallstatt Skywalk for breathtaking panoramas.

Melk Abbey

Melk Abbey had been on my list for years, and during my recent trip to Vienna, I finally had the chance to visit it. This stunning Benedictine monastery is located in the town of Melk, just an hour’s train ride away. It was founded in 1089 when Leopold II of Babenberg gifted one of his castles to the Benedictine monks.

Melk Abbey is a true Baroque masterpiece, with a beautiful church and its famous library, housed in a grand marble hall. You can also enjoy breathtaking views of the Danube River and the surrounding landscape from here.

After visiting the abbey, head to Rathauskeller for lunch. This traditional inn has been serving classic Austrian cuisine since 1669! I absolutely love their cordon bleu and Käsespätzle (Austrian cheese noodles).

How to get to Melk Abbey
Take a regional train from Wien Westbahnhof to Melk Bahnhof (just an hour). From there, it’s a short 10-minute walk to the abbey.

Bratislava

Bratislava, Slovakia’s charming capital, is a popular day trip from Vienna. The city has this cool mix of 18th-century buildings and Soviet-era architecture that makes it feel really unique. With its impressive castle, quirky statues, and modern UFO tower, Bratislava has plenty of character.

How to get to Bratislava

• take a train from Wien Hbf to Bratislava hl.st. (about a 1-hour journey). From there, it’s just a 30-minute walk to the Old Town
• take the Twin City Liner boat from Vienna Schwedenplatz to Bratislava (about a 1h 15min journey). The advantage is that it drops you off right in the heart of the Old Town

Kreuzenstein Castle

Kreuzenstein Castle is one of those places that feels straight out of a fairy tale. This medieval fortress is situated in the Vienna Woods, roughly an hour from Vienna. Perched on a hill, it provides breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. The castle dates back to the 12th century, though it was destroyed during the Thirty Years’ War in the 17th century.

The castle you see today is a 19th-century reconstruction, built by Johann Nepomuk Wilczek, a wealthy nobleman and passionate historian. He was inspired by medieval architecture and wanted to bring the feel of a knight’s castle back to life. One of the highlights of Kreuzenstein is its incredible collection of medieval weaponry.

Kreuzenstein Castle is open daily from April 1st to November 1st. Visits are only available with a guided tour, which starts on the hour and lasts around 45-60 minutes.

How to get to Kreuzenstein Castle
Take the suburban train S3 or S4 from Praterstern to Leobendorf-Burg Kreuzenstein station (30min journey). From there, it’s a 30-minute walk to the castle, with the last part taking you through a forest.

Vienna gifts and souvenirs

Manner Schnitten

If you want to take home a little taste of Vienna, Manner Schnitten are a great choice. These thin wafers filled with hazelnut cream have been made in Vienna since 1898! You’ll spot the familiar pink boxes everywhere, from supermarkets to souvenir shops.

They’re inexpensive, easy to squeeze into your suitcase, and make a nice little gift without having to think too hard about it. I usually go for the classic hazelnut flavour, but there are several varieties if you want to try something different. You can find them in supermarkets, at the Manner shop at Stephansplatz, or at the airport.

Mozartkugel

Mozartkugel are another classic Austrian sweet that makes an easy souvenir from Vienna. These round chocolates are filled with marzipan, nougat and pistachio, then covered in dark chocolate. They were originally created by Salzburg confectioner Paul Fürst and named after Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. Today, you can try Mozartkugel from different confectioners, each with its own recipe. You’ll find them in supermarkets, chocolate shops, and even souvenir stores.

Pirker Lebkuchen

If you love gingerbread, head straight to Stephansplatz and Pirker Lebkuchen. They’ve been making Lebkuchen since 1846, so they definitely know what they’re doing. The shop has more than 60 varieties of Lebkuchen and over 400 Pirker products, including honey, homemade mead, beeswax candles and incense.

I came across this little gem on one of my recent trips and was so happy to find it, as I had only ever seen their products at Christmas markets before. Needless to say, I left with several Lebkuchen and, of course, some incense too.

Papierhaus A. Katzer

Papierhaus A. Katzer is another gem I discovered on one of my recent trips. This historic stationery shop has been around since 1837 and is packed with beautiful paper, notebooks, cards, wax seals and other little finds. They even have a large section dedicated to Maileg, with their famous mice and other little toys and accessories! I couldn’t resist and left with a beautifully decorated notebook covered in flowers.

Kunst­historisches Museum Shop

For art-related souvenirs, the Kunsthistorisches Museum Shop is the place to go. You’ll find art books, prints, jewellery, homeware, and gifts inspired by the museum’s collections and famous artworks. I’ve been to hundreds of museum shops, but this is one of my favourites. You can even find the Empress Elisabeth Star as a necklace, earrings, or brooch. I left with a beautiful pair of gold-plated earrings and a matching necklace with red stones.

Vienna itinerary options for 1 or 2 days

1-day Vienna itinerary

One day in Vienna isn’t enough to see all its top attractions. In just one day, you can explore the historic city centre and visit St. Stephen’s Cathedral at most. Keep in mind that the city is home to many beautiful museums that deserve more time. If I had only one day, I’d start with St. Stephen’s Cathedral and then admire the Imperial Palace, St. Charles’s Church, and Belvedere Palace from the outside.

2-day Vienna itinerary

In my opinion, two days still isn’t enough time to see all of Vienna’s famous attractions. The main reason is that Schönbrunn Palace and Belvedere Palace are outside the historic city centre, so you’ll need extra time to commute. If you’re visiting for two days, I’d suggest following the first day of my 3-day itinerary as is. On the second day, start with the Spanish Riding School and spend the afternoon at Schönbrunn Palace. You’ll need to skip St. Charles’s Church, Belvedere Palace, and the Vienna Giant Ferris Wheel.

Getting around in Vienna

Vienna’s public transportation system is excellent and makes getting around the city so easy. The U-Bahn (metro) is my go-to for getting around, with five lines (U1, U2, U3, U4, and U6) that take you to most parts of the city. I find it super convenient since it runs frequently, especially during busy hours.

The fare system is simple and based on zones. Most of the city, including Schönbrunn Palace, is within the Core Zone of Vienna (formerly Zone 100). There are several ticket options, and I’d recommend getting the 24-hour card. Just a heads-up -if you’re using a paper ticket, make sure to stamp it before boarding to validate it.

How to get to Vienna

By air

Vienna International Airport (VIE), the city’s main airport, is about 18 kilometres (11 miles) from the city centre. The quickest way to reach the city centre is by taking the City Airport Train (CAT), which takes just 15 minutes to get to Wien Mitte. Note that from September 7, 2026, to October 31, 2027, the City Airport Train will be replaced by buses due to railway renovation works.

Alternatively, you can take the S7 Express train, but the journey takes about 25 minutes. A taxi ride will cost around €60.

By train

Vienna Central Station (Wien Hauptbahnhof) is just outside the city centre, but a quick metro ride (red line U1) will get you to St. Stephen’s Cathedral in no time. If you’re travelling internationally, I recommend booking tickets in advance on the ÖBB official website, as they’re cheaper if you book a few months ahead.

By car

Most of Vienna is a short-stay parking zone with a 2-hour maximum limit. That’s why it’s best to book accommodation with parking or use a parking garage (see list of parking garages here).

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FAQs about visiting Vienna

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