As Billy Joel once said, Vienna has been waiting for you for a long time! And if you've decided your next trip to be the Austrian capital, you've made the right decision. Vienna is not just the subject of some seriously famous ballads - it offers seemingly endless possibilities for exploring, eating, drinking and immersing yourself in its rich culture. For visiting the most wanted Vienna attractions, we now present 10+1 super activities!
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Want to try one of Vienna's famous cafés? Would you rather visit museums? The city is soon becoming one of the world's top destinations and has even been voted the world's most liveable city in 2022. So if you're planning a visit to Vienna, do it right!
From fine art to wine tours, here are the best things to do in Vienna this year.
1. Visit MuseumsQuartier
The MuseumsQuartier, or MQ as it is more commonly known, is a trendy collection from bars, cafés and restaurants to mini-golf courses. The quarter gives home to museums such as the Leopold Museum, which houses 44 Schiele paintings, as well as Gustav Klimt, Oskar Kokoschka and the Wien Werkstätte movement members and various works of art.
It's no wonder that this iconic cultural complex remains one of the foremost Vienna attractions, drawing in visitors from around the globe eager to immerse themselves in the city's rich artistic heritage.
MUMOK (Museum of Modern Art Ludwig Foundation Vienna) is one of Vienna's top art museums, which boasts the city's premier collection of contemporary art, including works of Andy Warhol and Roy Lichtenstein. Even if art isn't your favourite subject, it's still worth a visit to the district to hang out with the locals in one of the eye-catching geometric blocks.
Beyond its renowned museums, the MuseumsQuartier offers a multitude of experiences to engage and inspire visitors. Stroll through the expansive courtyards adorned with contemporary art installations, relax in one of the charming outdoor cafes, or attend a thought-provoking lecture or performance at one of the cultural institutions within the complex. Whether delving into the depths of Viennese art history or simply soaking in the vibrant atmosphere, a visit to the MuseumsQuartier is an essential experience for anyone seeking to uncover the cultural treasures of Vienna attractions.
Site location: Museumsplatz 1, 1070 Wien
GPS coordinates: 48.203333, 16.358579
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2. Klimt's work of art titled "Kiss" in the Upper Belvedere Palace
"The Kiss" is the last painting of Gustav Klimt's golden age, and the centrepiece of the world's most important art collection, which is located in the Upper Belvedere Palace in Vienna. The painting depicts two lovers embracing in a flowery meadow and stands out with Klimt's background of gold leaf and gold, silver and platinum flakes. Some believe that the painting is a portrait of the artist himself and his partner Emilie Flöge.
It is one of the most easily recognisable paintings in the world, and one of the most a significant dilution of the erotic intensity criticised in Klimt's earlier works. Every year, thousands of people flock to the palace to see this revolutionary work. Be sure to admire the other works on display and take a stroll through the Baroque palace gardens!
Beyond its artistic treasures, the Upper Belvedere Palace offers visitors a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of European royalty, with its lavishly decorated interiors and sprawling gardens. The palace's stunning architecture and scenic surroundings provide the perfect backdrop for leisurely strolls and moments of contemplation. Whether admiring the intricate details of its frescoes or taking in panoramic views of Vienna from its elegant terraces, the Upper Belvedere Palace offers a truly immersive experience that captures the essence of Vienna attractions.
Site location: Prinz-Eugen-Straße 27, 1030 Wien
GPS coordinates: 48.191246, 16.380968
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3. Walk along the Ringstrasse
The Ringstrasse - or more commonly known as the Ring - encircling Vienna's historic city centre, is the result of a Habsburg-era initiative to link the suburbs and the imperial centre. Construction of the Ringstrasse began with the decree of Franz Joseph I in 1857 and it remains the main landmark for all visitors amongst Vienna attractions.
Built to showcase the best of the Habsburg Empire, you can walk along the ring road and discover the city's most important sights.
If you only want to visit Karlsplatz and Schottentor, you can visit the State Opera House, the Burggarten, the Hofburg Palace, the National Library, the Art History Museum, the Natural Sciences Museum and the World Museum, the Parliament, the Volksgarten, the Burgtheater, the City Hall and the University. You won't get bored here, I guarantee!
Site location: 3500 Krems an der Donau
GPS coordinates: 48.407407, 15.596211
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4. Visit to the Sigmund Freud Museum
Sigmund Freud, the founder of psychoanalysis, lived and worked at Berggasse 19 until 1938, when he and his family were forced to flee to England because of Nazi persecution of Jews. Today, the place is a well-kept museum where you can view rare archive footage of Freud, look through many of his belongings and read about some of his interesting patients.
As one of the most prominent Vienna attractions, it serves as a haven for both scholars and enthusiasts alike, delving into the intricacies of Freud's revolutionary ideas and the impact they had on the field of psychology.
The Sigmund Freud Museum not only offers a fascinating insight into life in Vienna's intellectual golden age, but also hosts events and has a huge gift shop where you can pick up some souvenirs.
Its central location within Vienna's rich cultural landscape makes it a must-visit destination for those seeking to delve into the depths of psychoanalytic theory while also immersing themselves in the vibrant tapestry of Vienna attractions. Whether delving into Freud's seminal works or simply exploring the city's historical offerings, a visit to the Sigmund Freud Museum promises an enriching and enlightening experience for all.
Site location: Berggasse 19, 1090 Wien
GPS coordinates: 48.218637, 16.363286
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5. Vienna Attractions - Sachertorte tasting
Vienna's signature cake, a delicious combination of chocolate sponge cake, dark chocolate ganache and apricot jam, is more than just a dessert - its recipe is a strictly guarded secret. Of course, you can find this sweet treat in cafés all over the town, but there is a fierce rivalry between Hotel Sacher and Demel for the original recipe. They even went to court over it... Why to go there? Which Sachertorte is the best? There's only one way to find out - and that's to try them both. Let the Cake Wars begin!
Indulging in a Sachertorte tasting is more than just a culinary delight; it's a journey through Vienna attractions, both gastronomic and cultural. It's a celebration of tradition, craftsmanship, and the timeless allure of one of the world's most beloved desserts. So, the next time you find yourself in Vienna, be sure to treat yourself to a Sachertorte tasting experience and discover the city's sweetest treasures.
Site location: Philharmoniker Str. 4, 1010 Wien
GPS coordinates: 48.203861, 16.369576
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6. Vienna Attractions - Neubau district
It used to be Vienna's most emerging district, but now it's become kind of relaxed - think of Berlin's party districts! In the 7th district, rents are even still reasonable, which means there are plenty of unique boutiques, bars and restaurants. The food here is fantastic, so it's worth going for a gastronomic tour! There's the Erich, a subterranean taqueria with one of the best drink menus in town, and its sister restaurant Ulrich, where you can enjoy a fantastic brunch. And when the sun goes down, head to the bar at Hotel Altstadt for a Negroni expertly crafted with precision!
Exploring this dynamic district offers a refreshing perspective on Vienna attractions beyond the well-trodden tourist paths.
Site location: Neubaugasse 48, 1070 Wien
GPS coordinates: 48.202150, 16.349167
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7. Café Central coffee tasting
In Vienna's most venerable café, there are queues every day that could rival any busy London location. Opened in 1876, this typical Viennese café has always been the favourite of the smart locals - Freud, Trotsky and Stefan Zweig. The cathedral-like domed ceilings and sophisticated pastry shop is as attractive today as it was then. Sure, the queue might be boring, but once you're inside, the glittering decor and world-class pastries make worth it. Feeling hungry? Try the fluffy pancakes or the warm Apple Strudel sprinkled with icing sugar, and grab some custard-filled Cremeschnitte slices to go! The sugar shock will not be missed!
Situated in the bustling Innere Stadt district, this historic café has been a focal point of Viennese social life since its inception in 1876. Stepping into Café Central is akin to stepping back in time, where ornate architecture, marble columns, and vaulted ceilings create an ambiance steeped in grandeur and sophistication.
One cannot overstate the significance of Café Central in the realm of Vienna attractions. Its allure extends far beyond serving coffee and pastries; it serves as a melting pot of intellectuals, artists, and thinkers who have shaped the city's cultural landscape. Throughout its storied history, luminaries such as Sigmund Freud, Leon Trotsky, and Arthur Schnitzler have frequented its tables, engaging in lively discourse that reverberated through the corridors of intellectual thought.
Site location: Herrengasse 14, 1010 Wien
GPS coordinates: 48.210297, 16.365409
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8. Weingut Cobenzl wine tasting
Did you know, that there are 700 hectares of vineyards within the city borders of Vienna? Well, now you do. The light, fresh and fruity, Austrian wines are famously delicious, and you can taste the selection at Weingut Cobenzl on a special tasting tour. The vineyard is easily accessible with tram and bus (so you don't have to worry about who's driving back). This can be a super experience at a realistic price, as you'll be shown around the vineyard, the press house and the cellar for €20. And along the way you can taste some of the best wines. The views are stunning: on a clear day, the Danube glistens in the distance.
Site location: Am Cobenzl 96, 1190 Wien
GPS coordinates: 48.264192, 16.320756
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9. Vienna Attractions - Wiener Riesenrad Ferris Wheel
The Ferris wheel at the entrance of the Prater amusement park for Vienna is like the London Eye for London. The monument, built in 1897, was the star of the 1940s thriller "The Third Man", and a ride in its 15 imposing gondolas is like stepping back in time. There's no better way to see Vienna than from the top of this 200-foot landmark. After a ride on the Riesenrad, take a stroll through the retro and sometimes rather creepy historic amusement park!
Site location: Gaudeegasse 1, 1020 Wien
GPS coordinates: 48.216600, 16.395912
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10. Veganista restaurant
The Veganista, Vienna's first fully vegan ice cream parlour. Austrians may love meat dishes, but plant-based eating has definitely taken off here in recent years. The Veganista is justifiably popular: 18 completely meat-free flavours are on the menu every day, from chocolate and strawberry ice cream to basil, cookies and matcha.
Worth a visit whether you're a committed vegan or a curious carnivore. It's the perfect place to unwind!
Site location: Foodie Fridge, Taborstraße 15 9 - 11, 1020 Wien
GPS coordinates: 48.214558, 16.379984
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11. Vienna Attractions - Naschmarkt gastronomic adventures
The open-air market, built in the 16th century is like the crossing of the old London Covent Garden and the Dinerama. Taste the diverse culinary history of Vienna while you explore the Neni Am Naschmarkt, where you can taste everything from sauerkraut barrels to shawarma and Tel Aviv-style sabich! Whatever your taste buds crave, you'll find it here! It's also a great place to stock up on edible souvenirs like cheese, wine and sausages!
Vienna is diverse, full of gastronomic and artistic experiences. In one article, we couldn't even list the many things to do in this beautiful city when you visit!
Site location: 1060 Wien
GPS coordinates: 48.198342, 16.363118
Google Photos: Click here
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