Stepping onto the streets of Vienna is like entering a mesmerizing time capsule. The city’s regal architecture and grand boulevards transport you to a bygone era of Habsburg opulence and imperial grandeur. From the meticulously manicured gardens of Schönbrunn Palace to the ornate golden dome of St. Stephen’s Cathedral, Vienna boasts a wealth of breathtaking sights to explore. Beyond its monuments and palaces, Vienna is a cultural haven, with incredible museums, galleries, and music venues that will leave you in awe. Whether you’re wandering through the cobblestone alleys of the Old Town or sipping coffee in one of Vienna’s iconic cafes, the city’s charm and beauty are utterly enchanting. There’s no doubt that Vienna is one of the most captivating cities in Europe, and with so much to discover, you’re sure to fall in love with it.
1. Schönbrunn Palace
The yellow bricks and green shutters of the castle courtyard make it look like something out of a painting. About a century ago, while the palace was still utilised as a summer retreat, the Empress Elisabeth, better known as “Sisi,” would often visit. The palace has 1,414 rooms, and the audio tour is a great way to see some of them. The decor is rich and sumptuous, with paintings and ornate furniture evoking the 1850s. The gardens and the Gloriette are best explored on foot, however a horse-drawn carriage ride or a ride on the miniature train are other pleasant options. The view of the city of Vienna and the main palace from the Gloriette is breathtaking. A must-see before you leave is the “Apple Strudel Show” in the magnificent Imperial bakery, where you can see the bakers hard at work making the famed pastry. You’ll get to taste some authentic Viennese apple strudel and find out how it’s created.
2. Shopping in Mariahilfer Straße
For anyone who loves to shop, Mariahilfer Straße is a must-visit destination in Vienna. This bustling street is the longest shopping street in the city and offers a wide variety of shops to explore. Starting from the Museumsquartier and stretching to the Westbahnhof, the street is mostly pedestrianised, making it the perfect place to go for a leisurely stroll while browsing the shops. Whether you’re looking for gifts, souvenirs, or just want to see what the locals are buying, this street has it all. And, if you work up an appetite, you’ll find plenty of places to stop and grab a bite to eat along the way. It’s true that the shops can get crowded on Saturdays or during Christmas time, but with a relatively wide street, it never feels too busy. So, whether you’re a seasoned shopper or just looking for a fun way to spend an afternoon in Vienna, Mariahilfer Straße is the place to be!
3. Vienna Christmas Markets
When visiting Austria during the holiday season, you must stop by one of their enchanting Christmas Markets. The Vienna Christmas Markets vacation takes you to two of our favourites markets among the city’s about 25 total offerings. The Christmas market at Schönbrunn Palace is magnificent, and its enormous Christmas tree serves as its focal point. You may shop for unique Christmas decorations manufactured right here in the neighbourhood. Kasespatzle, a type of homemade pasta tossed with onion and Emmental cheese, and a mug of local Glühwein (mulled wine) are perfect remedies for a chill.
The Spittelberg Christmas Market is a nice area to wander the stalls and avoid the crowds of tourists at the larger Schönbrunn Palace Christmas Market. In addition to the excellent ambience, the narrow alleys surrounding the Volkstheater provide a variety of businesses and historic buildings to explore.
4. Vienna State Opera
The Vienna State Opera is an iconic symbol of the city’s rich musical heritage. Stepping inside this grandiose Opera House feels like entering another world – one filled with the promise of beautiful melodies and captivating performances. Embark on a guided tour to discover the historic Tea Salon and breathtaking Marble Hall, both of which will leave you in awe of their opulence and intricate attention to detail. And if you’re lucky enough to catch the Opera House on a day when there’s no rehearsal, you might have the opportunity to set foot on its monumental stage. With over 70 productions every year, all brought to life by a full-time staff of over 1,000, the Vienna State Opera is a tribute to the city’s enduring love affair with music.
5. The best Viennese coffee houses
Vienna is known for many things, from its magnificent architecture to its historical landmarks. But perhaps one of the city’s most beloved traditions is its coffee house culture. For Viennese locals and visitors alike, taking a leisurely break in one of the city’s vintage coffeehouses is an absolute must. Among the most iconic are the classic Café Central, where you can enjoy some live piano music along with your coffee, and Café Sacher, where you simply must indulge in a slice of the famous Original Sacher-Torte. And for a taste of authentic cake baking and decorating, be sure to visit Demel, the renowned pastry shop that has been delighting the senses for over 200 years. No matter which coffee house you choose, you’re in for a truly Viennese experience that you won’t soon forget.
