Vienna has a way of making you feel like you’ve stepped into another era, yet somehow, it’s modern too. The city is easy to explore, with its mix of grand palaces and vibrant coffeehouse culture. You can stroll through historic sites, enjoy some live music, and grab a coffee or a piece of Sachertorte in a cozy café—all in just a couple of days. Here’s everything you need to know for your Vienna city break, with travel tips and even a sample itinerary.
Vienna sits in central Europe, right at the edge of the Alps and alongside the Danube River. It’s the capital of Austria, and like most of the continent, it uses the Euro (€). ATMs are easy to find around the city, so you won’t have trouble getting cash. German is the official language, but English is common enough in tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants that you shouldn’t have much trouble getting by.
When it comes to timing, spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) are the best time to visit Austria. The weather is mild, there are fewer tourists around, and you get to see the city’s gardens and parks at their best—spring’s got flowers in Schönbrunn Palace and the Volksgarten, and fall brings golden leaves. Summer (June-August) is warmer and busier, with more tourists and higher prices for accommodation. Winter is a completely different vibe, with Christmas markets running from mid-November to December.
Stephanplatz from above in Vienna © Shutterstock
Vienna is a pretty easy city to reach, with a variety of options for getting there. Whether you want to fly over the Alps, take in the countryside by train, or drive, there’s something that works for most. If you’re planning on a longer trip in the area, our Austria travel advice guide might be handy.
Vienna International Airport (VIE) is the main airport, located in Schwechat, just outside the city. It’s a hub for Austrian Airlines and plenty of other European carriers, with flights from over 200 destinations worldwide. If you want to save a bit, you might also consider flying into Bratislava Airport (BTS) in Slovakia, which is about 37 miles (60 km) from Vienna. Budget airlines tend to use this airport, and you might find cheaper fares. For the best prices, aim to book 2-3 months ahead. Once you land, you can hop on the CAT (City Airport Train) for a 16-minute ride straight into the city center.
Vienna is found in the center of Europe, so it’s a key stop for trains traveling between the east and west. The main station, Wien Hauptbahnhof, was renovated in 2015 and connects to cities like Paris, Munich, Zurich, Budapest, and Prague. If you're heading in from western Austria, Westbahnhof is the station to use. The train ride into Vienna is one of the best ways to get a sense of the surrounding landscapes, especially if you’re coming from the west along the Danube Valley, where you can see rolling vineyards and castles. If you're up for it, check out ÖBB’s Nightjet service, which lets you travel overnight from major cities. It’s a comfortable option that saves on a night’s accommodation.
Driving to Vienna gives you the flexibility to stop and take in Austria’s stunning Alpine views along the way. The city’s located at the intersection of several major highways, like the E60 from the west and the E59 from the south. The highways are well maintained, but if you’re driving through the mountains in winter, be prepared for snow chains.
All cars using Austrian highways need a “vignette” toll sticker, which you can get at border gas stations or online. When you get to Vienna, the city center is a low-emission zone, so it's a good idea to park at one of the Park & Ride lots on the outskirts and then take public transportation into town. If you want a scenic approach, drive the Höhenstrasse (High Road) from the Vienna Woods.
Judenplatz is a town square in Vienna's Innere Stadt that was the center of Jewish life, Austria © Shutterstock
Vienna is split into 23 districts, or Bezirke. The historic 1st district, Innere Stadt, is at the center, and the districts surrounding it (2–9) form the heart of the city in a clockwise spiral. Beyond these inner districts, you'll find the outer districts (10–23), which form a ring around the central area. Here’s a little about some key districts, but if you’re looking for a more detailed overview, see our guide to where to stay in Vienna.
Innere Stadt, the first district, is Vienna’s historic center. It’s home to well-known landmarks like St. Stephen’s Cathedral and the Hofburg Palace. Staying here puts you right in the middle of things, so it’s easy to visit museums, coffee houses, and shops. The accommodations here can be on the pricier side, but the location and easy access to major attractions might make it worthwhile
Neubau, the 7th district, is home to MuseumsQuartier, which houses a few well-known museums like the Leopold Museum and MUMOK. The area has a more creative vibe, with galleries, design shops, and vintage stores scattered around. There are also plenty of cafes and restaurants, so it’s a good spot for food lovers. Neubau is close enough to main sights but tends to be quieter and feels more local than other parts of the city, which makes it a good choice if you’re looking for something less touristy.
Tulips in Kurpark Oberlaa Vienna © Shutterstock
Leopoldstadt, the 2nd district, has become a much livelier neighborhood in recent years. It’s located on an island bordered by the Danube Canal and blends history with a modern atmosphere. The Prater park, with its famous Riesenrad Ferris wheel, is a popular spot. The area has a lively nightlife scene with bars and clubs along the canal. If you’re looking for a market, Karmelitermarkt is a local favorite with food stalls and a weekend farmers’ market. Leopoldstadt is well-connected by public transport, so it’s easy to get around.
Mariahilf, the 6th district, is known for Mariahilfer Straße, Vienna’s busiest shopping street. This area is central and convenient for tourists, but it still has plenty of local spots to explore. Beyond the main shopping strip, you’ll find quieter streets with boutiques, vintage stores, and cafes. There’s a good range of food options here too, from traditional Austrian dishes to newer takes on local cuisine.
Wieden, the 4th district, is a good choice if you’re looking for a more local experience. The Naschmarkt, Vienna’s well-known food market, is located here, where you can find everything from fresh produce to international food. Wieden also has a mix of interesting architecture, with Art Nouveau buildings and hidden courtyards to explore. The food scene in this area has been growing, with plenty of new cafes, restaurants, and natural wine bars. It’s a quieter spot that’s still close to major attractions, so it’s a good option.
Spittelberg in Vienna © Shutterstock
A Vienna city break leaves you with a lot to explore. From its grand palaces to quiet coffeehouses, contemporary art to local wine, there’s a mix of things to keep you busy. Here’s a quick run-down of some of our favorites in Vienna, or see our guide to the best things to do in Austria if you plan on seeing more than the city.
Vienna has a rich history, and some of its most famous landmarks reflect that. Schönbrunn Palace, the former summer residence of the Habsburgs, has over 1,400 rooms and a large garden to stroll through.
St. Stephen’s Cathedral, with its towering south spire, is another essential visit. If you're up for a bit of a climb, head up the 343 steps to see the city from above. The Hofburg Palace, once the seat of the Habsburg rulers, now houses museums and the famous Spanish Riding School. If you enjoy opera, the Vienna State Opera is a must-see too, and you can grab a standing-room ticket for a more affordable option. And don’t miss walking around the Ringstrasse—it’s a loop that goes around the city, lined with impressive buildings from different periods in Vienna’s history.
Vienna’s museums cover a wide range of topics, so you can pick whatever interests you most. The Kunsthistorisches Museum is a great place to see art from the Habsburgs’ collection, including works by Bruegel and Velázquez.
The MuseumsQuartier is a cultural area that mixes modern and classic art, while MUMOK focuses on contemporary art. The Leopold Museum has a notable collection of works by Schiele and Klimt. For something interactive, check out the House of Music, where you can try your hand at conducting the Vienna Philharmonic. The Belvedere Palace is also worth a visit, especially for seeing Klimt’s "The Kiss" and other Austrian masterpieces. Many of these museums are set in fantastic and grand old buildings.
The Albertina Museum is a great addition to any Vienna city break © Shutterstock
If you’re looking to get away from the usual tourist spots, there are some interesting places to check out. The Third Man Museum, dedicated to the 1949 film, has original scripts, cameras, and even the famous sewer from the chase scene.
Hundertwasserhaus is a quirky building designed by artist Friedensreich Hundertwasser, known for its uneven floors and trees growing out of the windows. The Central Cemetery (Zentralfriedhof) is the final resting place of famous composers like Beethoven, Strauss, and Schubert. The cemetery itself is a mix of traditional and modern tombstones. Or, for something else a bit spooky, head beneath St. Stephen’s Cathedral, where you can explore the medieval catacombs, which have a fascinating history.
For a different view of the city, climb the north tower of St. Stephen’s Cathedral to see Pummerin, one of the largest free-swinging church bells in Europe. And the Narrenturm, once Europe’s first psychiatric hospital, is now a museum with exhibits on the history of medicine.
Shopping in Vienna goes beyond just picking up souvenirs. The Naschmarkt, a well-known market, has over 120 stalls with fresh produce, international food, and more. If you’re looking for a more high-end shopping experience, Kärntner Strasse and Graben are the main shopping streets, filled with shops and historic buildings.
Vienna’s coffeehouses are also an essential part of the shopping experience. Places like Café Central serve great pastries and chocolates, while Julius Meinl is famous for gourmet foods. If you want something less touristy, check out Brunnenmarkt, a local market that’s perfect for fresh food at reasonable prices. If you’re visiting in winter, the Christmas markets, especially the one at City Hall (Rathaus), are worth a stop for handmade gifts, and seasonal treats.
Austria, Vienna, Zentralfriedhof (Central Cemetery) dome seen in distance from tree lined avenue © Shutterstock
When you're in Vienna, you can’t miss out on the local Austrian dishes. You’ll of course want to start with Wiener Schnitzel, a breaded veal cutlet that usually comes with potato salad or parsley potatoes.
For dessert, Sachertorte is the go-to, a rich chocolate cake with apricot jam and a smooth chocolate glaze. The best place to try it is at Hotel Sacher. Also, don't skip Apfelstrudel, a warm, spiced apple pastry, and Kaiserschmarrn, a shredded pancake dusted with powdered sugar and served with fruit compote.
If you’re after something more savory, Tafelspitz is a traditional boiled beef dish, served with root vegetables and horseradish sauce. Pair any of these with a Melange (Viennese coffee) and a slice of Gugelhupf at one of the classic coffeehouses around the city.
Vienna has some great areas for dining. Naschmarkt is probably the most famous spot, with dozens of restaurants that serve everything from local favorites to international dishes, and is home to a lively market. Spittelberg, tucked behind the MuseumsQuartier, is more intimate and charming, with narrow cobblestone streets and cozy restaurants and wine bars, ideal for a quiet night out.
Freihausviertel, which used to be a bohemian neighborhood, has become a hotspot for new dining concepts. It’s a place where young chefs are reinventing traditional Austrian cuisine, and you’ll find a mix of creative spots that make this area worth exploring.
Things not to miss: Coffee house, Vienna, Austria © Shutterstock
If you're after something a bit more modern and trendy, check out some of Vienna’s cooler streets. Schleifmühlgasse in the 4th district has evolved into a hotspot for young, creative chefs. It’s got everything from casual cafés to natural wine bars, all with a relaxed but fresh vibe.
Burggasse, in the 7th district, has become a favorite for those into Vienna’s hipster scene.
The street is lined with third-wave coffee shops, fusion restaurants, and cocktail bars housed in beautiful old buildings. For a quieter but still exciting option, Zollergasse is worth a look. It’s just off Mariahilfer Straße and has a mix of plant-based kitchens and modern Austrian bistros.
Vienna’s street food markets are a great way to dive into the local food culture without the formality of a sit-down meal. Brunnenmarkt in Ottakring is the longest street market in the city, stretching nearly half a mile with over 170 stalls. You’ll find everything from Turkish börek and Balkan grills to Vietnamese noodles and Austrian classics.
Karmelitermarkt in the 2nd district is another spot to check out. It started as a small Jewish market and has turned into a spot for creative food stands. You can grab handmade pasta or brunch plates here, and the place really comes alive on weekends. And of course, Naschmarkt, one of the busiest markets in Vienna, is a must-visit if you’re looking for a mix of international and local products. The market is a sensory overload with spice merchants, Mediterranean delis, and Japanese grocers.
Graben Plague Column, Vienna © Shutterstock
Vienna has a transportation system that’s easy to use and well-suited to visitors. With a compact layout and great infrastructure, getting around is straightforward, whether you're just here for a few days or staying longer. If you're going beyond Vienna, see our guide to getting around Austria.
Vienna’s public transportation is both efficient and well-connected. The U-Bahn (metro) has five lines that are color-coded. The yellow trams are a nice way to travel at a slower pace and enjoy the views as they move through the city’s grand boulevards.
If you’re only in Vienna for a short stay, the Vienna City Card could be a good choice. It gives you unlimited access to public transport, as well as discounts on museums and other spots. Depending on how long you're in town, you can choose between the 24, 48, or 72-hour passes.
The WienMobil app is great for checking schedules and planning your routes in real-time. During rush hours (8-9 AM, 5-6 PM), trains come every 2-3 minutes. On weekends, the night network runs with trams and buses marked with an “N” prefix, so getting home late isn’t a problem.
Vienna is perfect for biking, with flat terrain and over 1,400 km of cycling paths. The Citybike Wien system has stations throughout central Vienna, and you can rent bikes easily with just a quick registration. If you want to ride a bit longer, there are plenty of shops where you can rent bikes or e-bikes, which make it easy to explore places like the Vienna Woods.
E-scooters are another convenient option, with several providers available all over the city. They’re ideal for short trips between sights or cruising around the Ringstrasse to see some of the city’s beautiful architecture. Both bikes and scooters let you explore areas that might be tough to reach by car. Just keep in mind that the first district has designated bike lanes, and scooters need to be parked in the right spots to avoid fines.
Vienna’s historic center is compact, and walking is the best way to see it. Kärntner Strasse and Graben are both pedestrianized streets, lined with shops and cafés. Nearby, the Hofburg complex is a great place to explore, giving you a sense of Vienna’s Habsburg history—all within walking distance. If you're into architecture, the Jewish Quarter (Judenplatz) is an interesting mix of old and new, with some important memorial sites.
Beyond the first district, Spittelberg is a charming neighborhood with narrow lanes and restored 18th-century houses. Today, it’s home to workshops and cozy wine taverns. The Naschmarkt area is also worth a visit, combining Vienna's largest market with a creative arts scene in the surrounding streets. When you need a break, stop at one of Vienna’s famous coffee houses.
Prater, the fun park in Vienna with the big Ferris wheel © Shutterstock
How many days do you need in Vienna? For most, 3-4 days is ideal. This gives you enough time to explore the city center, visit key attractions like Schönbrunn Palace and St. Stephen's Cathedral, enjoy a classical music performance, and sample the café culture. With 3 days, you'll see the highlights; with 4, you can add day trips or explore more museums at a relaxed pace.
Start your time in Vienna by exploring the historic city center. Begin at St. Stephen’s Cathedral, a beautiful Gothic church that’s been part of the city since the 12th century. From there, wander through the cobblestone streets of the Innere Stadt (Old Town), where you’ll find Habsburg palaces and old alleys full of character. Be sure to stop by Hofburg Palace, the former winter residence of the imperial family, and if you're in town at the right time, catch a performance by the Lipizzaner horses at the Spanish Riding School. Afterward, take a break at a local café, like Café Central or Café Sacher, where you can relax and enjoy Sachertorte.
For day two of this itinerary, start with the MuseumsQuartier, where you’ll find the Leopold Museum with its impressive collection of Egon Schiele works, and MUMOK, which features modern art from a range of artists. Once you’ve had your fill of art, head to Neubau, the city’s trendy 7th district, where you can browse through independent shops and local boutiques. If you’re in the mood to shop, Mariahilferstraße is nearby and has everything from high street brands to vintage stores on side streets. Finish your day with a visit to the Kunsthistorisches Museum, which has an extensive collection, including works by Vermeer, Raphael, and Bruegel.
For day three, head outside the city center to see Schönbrunn Palace, the Habsburgs’ summer residence. It’s best to get there early to avoid the crowds. Explore the 1,441 rooms of this Baroque palace and stroll through the gardens, which include the Neptune Fountain and the Gloriette with great views of the city. Later in the day, visit Belvedere Palace, home to Klimt’s “The Kiss” and other notable Austrian art pieces. When evening rolls around, head to Grinzing or Nussdorf, two wine villages that are now part of the city. Enjoy some local wine at a heurigen (wine tavern).
If you’ve got an extra day, there are a few day trips worth considering. Bratislava, Slovakia’s capital, is just an hour away by boat or train. It’s a quieter city with beautiful baroque buildings and riverside cafés, and it’s more affordable than Vienna. If you enjoy wine, head to the Wachau Valley, a scenic region with vineyards, medieval villages, and the Danube River. You can take a river cruise or cycle between towns like Dürnstein and Melk and taste some of the local Grüner Veltliner wines. For a longer trip, Salzburg is about 2.5 hours away, and it’s a great choice if you’re interested in Mozart and charming alpine views.
Bratislava, Slovakia can be a fun day drip from Vienna © Shutterstock
Despite being a busy city, Vienna’s pace is relaxed, so you’ll have plenty of time to explore without rushing. It's also a city that takes planning and quality of life seriously, which is part of why it’s consistently ranked as one of the best places to live.
The Vienna City Card is a solid way to save, especially if you plan to take public transportation a lot. It gives you unlimited rides and discounts at major attractions, with the 72-hour version being the best value.
Museums are a great deal on the first Sunday of the month, when many have free entry. If you’re a fan of classical music, standing-room tickets at the State Opera are a great budget-friendly option—just grab them 80 minutes before the show starts. Naschmarkt is the place to be near closing time if you want discounted fresh produce.
Instead of the typical tourist cafés, head to a traditional Beisl in one of the outer districts for good, affordable local food. Vienna’s public drinking fountains provide mountain spring water, so you can refill your bottle for free. Lastly, free walking tours (based on tips) are a good way to get to know the city’s Habsburg history or Art Nouveau architecture in more detail.
Vienna is very family-friendly. The Prater amusement park is home to the city’s famous Ferris wheel, along with plenty of other rides for kids of all ages. Schönbrunn Palace has a lot to keep the little ones entertained, with the world’s oldest zoo, a maze, and a children’s museum where kids can try on imperial costumes.
The Natural History Museum has interactive dinosaur exhibits and a planetarium that younger visitors love. In the summer, Danube Island is a great spot for families, with free beach access, water playgrounds, and bike paths. At the House of Music, kids can play around with sound experiments and conduct a virtual orchestra. For some fun entertainment, check out the puppet theater at Schönbrunn or marionette shows at Schloss Theater. The city’s parks, like Stadtpark and Augarten, have great playgrounds in beautiful, historic surroundings.
If you're planning your Vienna city break or a trip to Europe at large, our tailor-made trips can help. Our trips are created by locals who know the area inside and out, and created for you uniquely. You can customize the trip to your liking, and you'll receive support while on the road, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Or if you are the kind person who enjoys making their own itinerary, don't miss the Mini Rough Guide to Vienna with suggestions, practical information, hidden gems and more from our travel experts.
written by
Dre Roelandt
updated 22.03.2025
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