Top 10 Things to do in Vienna

Things to do in Vienna

Vienna, the stunning capital of Austria, is a city that should be on everyone’s travel bucket list. With its rich history and cultural significance, Vienna offers an array of activities for tourists to indulge in. Whether you’re interested in exploring museums or strolling through scenic gardens, this city has something for every type of traveller.

1. St. Stephen’s Cathedral

St. Stephen’s Cathedral is one of the most iconic landmarks in Vienna, and it’s hard to miss its towering spire that reaches up into the sky. This stunning gothic cathedral has been a prominent fixture in Vienna since its construction began in the 12th century.

One of the first things you’ll notice about St. Stephen’s Cathedral is its intricate exterior design, which features a mix of Gothic and Romanesque styles. The colourful roof tiles are especially noteworthy, featuring an impressive mosaic depicting the double-headed eagle symbolizing Emperor Friedrich III.

Once inside, visitors can marvel at the magnificent stained-glass windows or take a guided tour to learn more about the cathedral’s history and architecture. But perhaps the highlight for many visitors is climbing up to the top of St. Stephen’s South Tower for breath-taking views over Vienna.

Whether you’re interested in history, architecture or just want to enjoy some stunning panoramic views of Vienna from above – St. Stephen’s Cathedral should definitely be on your list of must-visit attractions when exploring this beautiful city!

2. Volksgarten

Located in the heart of Vienna, Volksgarten is a beautiful park that offers a serene escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. It’s an ideal spot for nature lovers who want to take a break from sightseeing and immerse themselves in lush greenery.

The park was once part of the palace garden of Emperor Franz Joseph I, but it was opened to the public in 1823. Today, visitors can stroll along its winding paths lined with fragrant rose bushes and other colourful flowers.

One of the highlights of Volksgarten is its stunning neoclassical Theseus Temple. Built-in 1820, this temple houses a statue depicting Theseus slaying the Minotaur. The temple’s grandeur makes it a popular spot for taking pictures among tourists.

Another feature worth mentioning at Volksgarten is its various fountains dotted throughout the park. Visitors can sit by one of these fountains or enjoy a picnic on one of many available benches while listening to their calming sound.

Volksgarten also provides plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities like jogging or playing frisbee with friends or family members- making it an excellent choice for those looking to spend some time outdoors during their visit to Vienna!

3. The Hofburg

The Hofburg is one of the most iconic buildings in Vienna. It served as the imperial palace for the Habsburg dynasty, who ruled Austria-Hungary for over 600 years. The complex covers an area of 240,000 square meters and has over 2,600 rooms!

Visitors can explore various sections of the palace such as the Imperial Apartments that showcase lavish furnishings from different historical periods. You’ll get to see where Emperor Franz Joseph I lived with his wife Elisabeth and learn about their fascinating lives.

Another highlight is the Sisi Museum which tells the story of Empress Elisabeth (also known as Sisi), a beloved figure in Austrian history. The museum displays her personal items like dresses, gloves, and fans while giving insight into her life and struggles.

For those interested in royal treasures, don’t miss out on visiting the Imperial Treasury which houses valuable objects including crowns worn by emperors and precious jewels.

The Hofburg offers a glimpse into Austria’s rich cultural heritage through its opulent interiors and fascinating exhibits making it a must-visit attraction when exploring Vienna!

4. St. Peter’s Catholic Church

St. Peter’s Catholic Church is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Vienna. Located in the heart of the city, this stunning Baroque church boasts an impressive interior adorned with intricate frescoes and ornate sculptures.

As you step inside St. Peter’s, you’ll immediately be struck by its grandeur and beauty. The soaring ceiling is painted with vibrant scenes from the Bible, while marble columns support arches decorated with gold leaf.

One of the highlights of St. Peter’s is its magnificent altar, which features a gleaming silver tabernacle surrounded by statues of saints and cherubs. Meanwhile, the pulpit is intricately carved from wood and adorned with figures that seem to come to life before your eyes.

In addition to its breath-taking design elements, St. Peter’s also has a rich history dating back more than 300 years. It was originally built in 1701 as part of a Jesuit college and later became home to one of Vienna’s oldest choirs.

Whether you’re interested in religious landmarks or simply appreciate stunning architecture and artistry, St. Peter’s Catholic Church should definitely be on your list of top things to do in Vienna!

5. Prater

Prater is an amusement park located in the heart of Vienna, Austria. The park offers a variety of thrilling rides and attractions that cater to all ages, making it one of the top things to do in Vienna.

One of the most popular attractions at Prater is the Wiener Riesenrad, or Viennese Giant Ferris Wheel. This iconic landmark has been a fixture in Vienna since 1897 and offers breath-taking views of the city from its 200-foot height.

For those seeking more adrenaline-inducing experiences, there are roller coasters like the Grottenbahn and wild water rides like Wildalpenbahn. Families with children can also enjoy tamer rides such as carousels and bumper cars.

In addition to rides, Prater also features various games and stalls where visitors can win prizes or indulge in classic carnival foods like cotton candy and popcorn. There are also several restaurants serving traditional Austrian cuisine for those who want a break from all the excitement.

Prater provides an unforgettable day out for anyone looking for some fun-filled adventure during their trip to Vienna.

6. Museums Quartier

Museums Quartier is a must-visit destination for art lovers visiting Vienna. This cultural complex houses several museums, including the Leopold Museum and the Museum of Modern Art.

The architecture of Museums Quartier is also worth admiring as it mixes historic baroque buildings with modern structures. The spacious courtyards are perfect for a leisurely stroll or to enjoy an outdoor performance during summer.

Art enthusiasts will be delighted by the extensive collection of art pieces on display in every museum. From contemporary to classic works, there is something for everyone to appreciate and connect with.

Besides visual arts, music performances, theatre productions and literature events also take place regularly at Museums Quartier, making it a hub of creativity and expression.

Foodies can indulge in culinary delights at one of its many cafes or restaurants while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere created by local artists showcasing their talents.

Museums Quartier offers visitors an opportunity to engage with various forms of art under one roof while immersing themselves in Viennese culture like never before.

7. Historic Centre of Vienna

The Historic Centre of Vienna is a must-visit destination for both history buffs and casual tourists. The city’s rich cultural heritage can be seen in the stunning architecture, which dates back centuries. Walking through this part of Vienna feels like stepping back in time.

One of the most iconic landmarks of the Historic Centre is St. Stephen’s Cathedral, which has stood tall for more than 700 years. Its Gothic architecture with intricate details on its facade will leave visitors in awe.

Another notable spot within the centre is Hofburg Palace, once home to some of Austria’s most prominent rulers. Today it serves as a museum complex where visitors can explore imperial apartments and collections that document the country’s rich history.

Other places worth visiting include Graben street with its designer shops and cafes or Michaelerplatz square with its impressive baroque buildings such as Michaelerkirche Church or Looshaus designed by Adolf Loos.

Taking a stroll through Vienna’s historic centre is an immersive experience that transports visitors back to another era while simultaneously showcasing how timeless beauty truly can be.

8. Schonbrunn Zoo

Schonbrunn Zoo is a must-visit attraction in Vienna, Austria. It’s one of the oldest zoos in Europe and has been open to the public since 1752. The zoo houses over 700 species of animals from all around the world.

One of the highlights at Schonbrunn Zoo is their giant pandas – Yang Yang, Long Hui, and Fu Bao. Visitors can watch them play, eat bamboo shoots or just relax in their specially designed enclosure.

The zoo also has its own rainforest house where visitors can see different exotic birds flying freely around them as they walk through it. Moreover, there are many other enclosures which showcase various animal habitats such as Africa Savannah, South America Pampas or Australia Outback among others.

If you’re traveling with kids, they will love seeing elephants up close and personal or watching sea lions perform tricks during feeding time!

Schonbrunn Zoo offers an exciting opportunity to interact with wildlife and learn about conservation efforts that help protect endangered species across the globe!

9. Kunsthistorisches Museum Wien

Kunsthistorisches Museum Wien is one of the most impressive art museums in Europe. The museum houses an extensive collection of historic art pieces, including works by famous artists such as Rembrandt and Velazquez.

The building itself is a work of art with its grand architecture and intricate design. Visitors are immediately drawn to the magnificent staircase that leads to the galleries filled with paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts from different periods.

One must-see exhibit at Kunsthistorisches Museum Wien is the Egyptian Collection which features artifacts from ancient Egypt including mummies and other intriguing objects. The museum also has a vast collection of coins, armour, weapons, textiles, and ceramics from around the world.

What’s great about this museum is that it caters to all types of visitors – whether you’re an art enthusiast or just someone who appreciates beauty. With so much on display here, you could easily spend hours wandering through each gallery soaking up centuries worth of history and culture.

Kunsthistorisches Museum Wien is definitely worth a visit if you find yourself in Vienna!

10. Viennese Giant Ferris Wheel

Vienna is a city that never fails to impress. With its stunning architecture, rich history, and cultural heritage, there’s something here for everyone. From exploring the historic center of Vienna to riding on the Viennese Giant Ferris Wheel, you’ll never be short of things to do in this beautiful city.

If you’re planning a trip to Vienna soon, make sure you add these top 10 things to do in Vienna to your itinerary. Whether you’re traveling solo or with family and friends, each activity promises an unforgettable experience that will leave you wanting more.

So what are you waiting for? Book your tickets now and get ready for an adventure of a lifetime!