Vienna, Austria is a city of culture, beauty, and history. From the grand architecture of the Schönbrunn Palace to the celebrated works of art at the Kunsthistorisches Museum, Vienna is an ideal destination for tourists of all ages.
But it’s not just the city’s art galleries, palaces, and museums that make it a must-visit; Vienna is also home to some of the most popular attractions in Europe. From its impressive museums to the awe-inspiring Belvedere Palace, there’s something for everyone in this fascinating city. Best of all, there’s luggage storage in Vienna so you can drop your bags off and enjoy the city without a care in the world. Read on to discover the X top things to do in Austria’s capital city.
- Schönbrunn Palace
The Schönbrunn Palace is one of the most impressive attractions in Vienna, and one that shouldn’t be missed by any visitor. This exquisite Baroque-style palace, which is located in the city’s district of Penzing, was built between 1696 and 1711 and served as the primary residence of the Habsburg monarchs.
And, although you can only access the grounds of the palace on a tour, some of the most impressive rooms inside the palace are open to the public. These include the Imperial Hall, the Music Room, the Picture Gallery, and the Golden Gallery.
- Kunsthistorisches Museum
The Kunsthistorisches Museum, or “Art History Museum,” is Vienna’s most famous art museum and one of the most popular attractions in the city. This impressive building houses an extensive collection of art that covers a period of almost 6,000 years, from antiquity to the early 20th century. The Kunsthistorisches Museum is home to works by a wide range of famous artists, including Vincent van Gogh, Pablo Picasso, Edgar Degas, and Edvard Munch.
- Viennese Prater
Vienna is famous for its many fabulous gardens and parks, but perhaps the most famous is the Vienna Prater. This green space, which is home to a number of impressive attractions, stretches over a total area of about 120 hectares. The Vienna Prater welcomes around 18 million visitors each year and is open throughout the year.
The Vienna Prater is most famous for its Giant Ferris Wheel, which offers breathtaking views over the city. There are also a number of other attractions in the Vienna Prater, including the charming Prater Rides, the Prater Zoo, and the Panorama Tower.
- Belvedere Palace
The Baroque-style Belvedere Palace is another of Vienna’s most popular attractions. This beautiful building houses an extensive collection of art, including works by Rembrandt, Rubens, Monet, and Van Gogh. There are also a number of statues and ornate gardens in the Belvedere Palace, making it a true sight to behold.
Visitors to the Belvedere Palace can access the gardens, but only some rooms are open to the public. The highlights of a visit to the Belvedere Palace include the Imperial Gallery, the Fountain Room, and the Chinese Temple Room.
- Vienna State Opera House
The Vienna State Opera House is one of the most impressive buildings in Austria, and it’s one of the most popular attractions in the city. This beautiful structure was built in the 19th century and is home to the Vienna State Opera, as well as the Vienna State Ballet.
The Vienna State Opera House is one of the most important cultural centers in the city, and it attracts thousands of visitors every year. Visitors to the Vienna State Opera House can watch a performance, take a tour of the building, or visit the foyers and shops.
- Stephansdom Cathedral
Vienna’s stunning Stephansdom Cathedral is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks, as well as one of its most popular attractions. This splendid building was constructed between the 13th and 15th centuries and has become a symbol of Vienna and Austria.
The cathedral is open to the public, and visitors can explore the nave and the crypt, which is home to the tombs of many famous historical figures, including Empress Maria Theresa and Emperor Franz Joseph.
- Hofburg Imperial Palace
The Hofburg Imperial Palace is one of the most important buildings in Vienna and one of the most popular attractions in the city. This impressive building, which is located in the city’s First District, served as the home of the Habsburg monarchy from the 15th century to the 19th century.
The Hofburg Imperial Palace is now home to some of the most important cultural institutions in the city, including the Austrian Gallery and the Austrian State Library. There are also several museums based at the Hofburg Imperial Palace, including the Austrian Museum, the Austrian Gallery, and the Wiener Porcelain Museum.
- Vienna City Hall
The Vienna City Hall is one of the most impressive buildings in the city, and it’s one of the most popular attractions in Vienna. Constructed between 1898 and 1901, it’s one of the most highly decorated buildings in the city. It is also the largest city hall in the world, covering an area of around 45,000 square meters.
Visitors to the Vienna City Hall can admire the building’s architecture, explore the art collections on display, and visit the museum gift shop. There are also guided tours of the building, which provide an interesting insight into the history of Vienna City Hall.
- St. Peter’s Church
Vienna’s St. Peter’s Church is another of the city’s most popular destinations. This beautiful building was constructed in the 14th century, and it has become one of the most important landmarks in the city.
Visitors to St. Peter’s Church can explore the impressive architecture of the building, admire the art collections, and climb the 105-meter tower for eye-popping views. And, the best part is that entry to St. Peter’s Church is free.
- Danube Tower
Vienna’s Danube Tower is the city’s newest landmark, having been completed only in 2008. This stunning tower is Vienna’s highest landmark and home to some of the best views in the city, with a panoramic view that stretches from Vienna’s City Hall to St. Stephen’s Cathedral.
Visitors to the Danube Tower can take in the views from the building’s observation deck, which is open to the public. There is also a museum on the ground floor of the Danube Tower, dedicated to the history of Vienna. Entry to the building and museum is completely free.
Visit Vienna
With so many spectacular sights to see and things to do, who could resist the excitement of visiting Austria’s capital city? It’s a journey you’re certain to never forget.