Vienna is a thriving, vibrant city, packed with culture and history at every turn. If you’re headed to this corner of Europe, and you’re not sure where to start when it comes to sightseeing, here are the top places you need to have on your list.
- Hoftburg Palace
Formerly the Imperial palace in the centre of Vienna, this opulent example of baroque architecture was built in the 13th century, but has expanded hugely over the centuries. Today, not only is it the official residence and workplace of the President of Austria, but it’s an immensely popular tourist attraction, with several museums full of period masterpieces.
- Belvedere Vienna
The Belvedere is the name given to a palace complex consisting of two Baroque palaces, an orangery, and the palace stables. Surrounded by elegant sculptures, perfectly manicured gardens, and tiered fountains, you’ll find this the ideal location for the stunning private artwork collection you’re able to feast your eyes on.
- Vienna State Opera House
If you want to indulge in a true Viennese past time, heading to the Vienna State Opera House with tickets firmly in hand would be a great start. Golden archways and plush red velvet seating are the perfect setting for some of the finest performances in Austria – just make sure you book your tickets as soon as possible, as shows here sell out fast.
- Wurstelprater Park
Known as simply “Prater” to the locals, this amusement park draws in millions of people every year with its mix of fairground rides, carnival-style games and snack stalls. It’s also home to the iconic Wiener Riesenrad Ferris wheel – an image across the skyline that has become a symbol of Vienna.
- St. Stephen’s Cathedral
Speaking of the skyline, you won’t be able to miss the dramatic figure cut across the landscape by the gothic walls of St. Stephen’s Cathedral. This medieval place of worship has witnessed some of Vienna’s most important historical periods, and has a place in every citizen’s heart. It’s currently the mother church of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Vienna, and you can explore it all.
- Museumsquartier
This district of Vienna perfectly blends the old and new together in this cosmopolitan city. While this 60,000 m² large space is home to many baroque buildings and traditional museums, you’ll also find plenty of modern masterpieces too. Exhibitions and art shows are regularly changed here in contemporary spaces such as the MUMOK.
- Naschmarkt
For any foodies hoping to try out the best of what local Viennese cuisine has to offer, you should head to the bustling Nashmarkt. Located in Wienzeile over the Wien River, and home to hundreds of food, drink and vintage stalls, this is perfect marketplace for those wanting to get a taste of Viennese customs and traditional delicacies.
I hope you found this blog post useful and it helps you to plan your next trip to Vienna. Which attraction are you looking forward to the most? Leave your comment below…
I would love to spend some time in Austria, I would like to see where the Sound of Music family lived in Austria too.
I would so love to see Vienna! My dream is to see as many opera houses as possible, and Vienna State Opera House would be a must. You can keep your island vacations, I’d love to go to places like this!
I am a foodie when I travel. I would have to check out the Naschmarkt.
I would love to catch an Opera there and see the Cathedral!
Happy to know that there are different things to do in Vienna. A trip to Wurstelprater Park sounds fun. I am pretty sure my kids would love it. I, on the other hand would love to visit the Opera House.
I haven’t ever been to Vienna but I’d love to go someday. My youngest would love to visit the water park.