Resting along the shores of the Danube River is Austria's vibrant capital city, Vienna. For hundreds of years, Vienna was an imperial city, home to the Habsburg dynasty and the epicenter of aristocratic life. As a result, the city grew into an architectural wonder, one in which culture and sophistication permeated every building and city square.
While the Habsburgs no longer rule, the refined community that they created remains. Today, visitors to Vienna will be greeted by a cosmopolitan city, one that still cherishes the beauty of classical music, fine art and an excellent cup of coffee.
Our guide to Vienna showcases the best things to see and do, allowing you to create a picture-perfect itinerary in one of the most civilized and enlightened cities in Europe. Looking for the best possible deal on your trip to Vienna? Explore our Austrian vacation packages and allow one of our expert AAA travel agents to help you book your trip.
Top 10 Reasons to Visit Vienna, Austria
Home to more than 2 million people, Vienna is Austria's largest city. While it's a bustling metropolis that is filled with local residents and excited tourists on any given day, the city somehow maintains the charm and atmosphere of a large town.
If you are looking to experience the art, culture and history that have long made Europe one of the most fascinating places to explore, then Vienna is the perfect destination to add to your itinerary. This unique and beautiful city even makes our list of 20 underrated travel destinations to book.
No matter if you have two hours, three days or a full week to explore, Vienna is well worth the journey. These are our top 10 reasons that you should take a trip to Vienna, Austria:
1. Witness the Legacy of the Habsburg Dynasty
For centuries, the Habsburgs ruled over a collection of lands from the heart of Vienna, transforming this city into an epicenter of administrative business and cultural affairs. As a result, the city bloomed and blossomed, with ornate and impressive architecture serving as a symbol of the strength of the dynasty.
Today, visitors can still see the impact that the Habsburgs had on Vienna. From those who are passionate about history to those who are filled with wonder about the magnificent Empress Sisi, there are plenty of historical attractions to visit. The most famous Habsburg sights in Vienna include:
- Hofburg: Known as the center of the dynasty, the Hofburg Imperial Palace served as the seat of the Habsburgs for hundreds of years. Constructed in the 13th century, this impressive and sprawling palace is a day trip in its own right. Here, you will find the imperial apartments, the crown jewels and the ever-popular museum dedicated to Empress Sisi.
- Schonbrunn Palace: This larger-than-life palace was the summer home of the Habsburgs, with visitors finding the same relaxed joy that the imperial family did during their days here. At Schonbrunn Palace, you will find a zoo, picturesque park grounds and evening concerts to enjoy.
- Belvedere Palace: Belvedere is a collection of palatial homes, one of which is home to the city's most impressive art museum.
2. Grab a Cup of Coffee at a Traditional Viennese Coffee House
Traveling can be exhausting, particularly when you are trying to see as many of the top attractions in Vienna in a short amount of time. But no visit to this idyllic European city would be complete if you didn't take a minute to slow down and relax at a traditional Viennese coffee house.
Viennese café culture is an integral part of the city's history, and today, local people find themselves savoring a cup of coffee in total peace and relaxation regularly. Take a tour to learn all about Vienna's coffee history, culture and traditions
The most well-known coffee shops in Vienna include Café Sacher and Café Central, which are known for their luxe and opulent interiors as well as their famously delicious coffee and pastries. These two coffee shops have transformed into tourist hot spots, so you may find yourself in good company with other travelers, but they are still worth the visit.
3. Enjoy a Classical Concert Experience
Vienna is famous for being the birthplace of classical music, so no trip would truly be complete without enjoying a concert in one of the city's historic concert venues.
From Mozart to Beethoven, you will be able to find classical concerts in 18th century settings, allowing you to feel as if you have stepped back in time to an era when music and culture defined daily life for the Viennese aristocracy.
4. Explore Wondrous Artifacts From Around the World at Kunsthistorisches Museum
The Kunsthistorisches Museum, known by the locals as KHM, is a fine arts museum that houses an impressive collection of artifacts. It is considered to be one of the world's premier museums and features artfully curated exhibits and collections from around the world. This popular spot draws a crowd, but AAA can help you avoid the hassle.
Fine art and history lovers will appreciate the painting galleries, which display many of the most famous 18th-century portraits of European leaders. Those who prefer to take a step back in time will enjoy the Egyptian Collection as well as the Greek and Roman Antiquities exhibit, both of which feature priceless ancient artifacts. Take a guided tour to discover all the KHM has to offer.
5. Walk in the Footsteps of Classical Composers
At one time, it seemed there was a classical composer living around every corner in Vienna. The likes of Schubert, Beethoven, Mozart, Strauss and Brahms all called Vienna home for part of their lives, and today, many of their former abodes have been preserved as history museums. Some places that you can visit include:
- The Beethoven Pasqualatihaus and Beethoven Museum: The Pasqualatihaus is the famed composer's former residence in Vienna, while the museum is located just a few steps away and provides more insight into his life and work.
- Mozarthaus Vienna: Mozart was born in Salzburg but spent three years of his life living in an apartment in Vienna, where he composed the vast majority of his music. Visitors can explore the Mozarthaus Vienna museum in order to walk through the place where he lived and breathed music. You can also see a concert while you're there.
6. View Klimt's "The Kiss" at the Belvedere
Considered to be the unofficial symbol of Vienna, Klimt's "The Kiss" is sometimes described as Austria's Mona Lisa. Housed in the Upper Belvedere palace, this painting is a must-see during your trip to Vienna. It was painted between 1907 and 1908 by Gustav Klimt, and it is considered to be one of the premier masterpieces of the Viennese Secession movement.
A tour of the Upper Belvedere will allow you to see this iconic painting as well as many other impressive masterpieces.
7. Take in a Performance at the Vienna State Opera
The Vienna State Opera has long been known as one of the most beautiful buildings in the city, but the only way to experience its breathtaking architecture and grand design is to see a performance there for yourself.
Advance tickets to opera performances are recommended, but they can be pricey. If you want to try your luck, you can consider purchasing same-day, discounted tickets online once you arrive. These tickets are located in the standing room only areas.
8. Try Wiener Schnitzel, an Authentic Viennese Delight
As you begin to experience the culture and flavor of Vienna, you will want to make sure to try Wiener Schnitzel while you are in the city. Schnitzel is a thin piece of meat that is breaded and fried, making it a perfect option for any meal.
While there are places to try schnitzel all over the city, Figlmuller is perhaps the most popular among tourists. It is described as the home to the schnitzel, so you are sure to get an authentic dish while you are here.
9. Enjoy a Sunset From One of Vienna's Rooftop Bars
The perfect way to end your day in Vienna is to sip your favorite beverage and enjoy a leisurely meal from one of the city's renowned rooftop bars.
These restaurants provide an overlook to the city that can't be found anywhere else, allowing you to witness a spectacular sunset set against the backdrop of Vienna's iconic architecture.
10. Browse Vienna's World-Famous Markets
The Vienna markets are an anchor of local life, providing residents with a place to connect with one another as they get everything they need for the day. If you are only going to visit one market, make it Naschmarkt, which is described as the belly of Vienna.
This market has been a staple of community life for centuries, and it features more than 120 stalls where visitors can purchase just about anything they might need.
How to Get Around Vienna
Getting around Vienna is incredibly easy, thanks in large part to its excellent public transportation system. Known for being efficient, affordable and not too crowded, public transit in Vienna is favored by tourists and locals alike.
Here's what you need to know about the city's public transportation:
- Tickets and passes for the Wiener Linien (Vienna's public transit system) cover all train and subway services as well as most bus and tram services, simplifying the process for travelers who are new to the city.
- Even though a ticket is required to ride, the system operates on the basis of honesty. You can simply hop on and hop off, and you do not have to stop at any ticket barrier upon entering or exiting a bus, tram or subway. Don't be tempted to cheat the system, though. While there may not be ticket barriers, there are conductors who will meander through the trams and trains in order to check tickets, as well as undercover agents who will do random ticket inspections.
- Tourists who are spending more than a few days in the city may benefit from a discount pass, such as the Vienna Pass, which includes public transit as well as admission to numerous sightseeing attractions in the city, or the Vienna Welcome Card, which is a multi-day public transportation pass.
Due to the simplicity and efficiency of the public transit system, there's really no reason to consider any other mode of transportation, unless you are walking around the city. However, if you do feel the need, taxi and ride-sharing services are available in the city.
When is the Best Time to Visit Vienna?
The best time to visit Vienna depends on the type of travel experience that you want to enjoy. For the most part, summer is considered to be the peak travel season. The city enjoys an abundance of sunshine and near-perfect warm weather during the summer months, making this a favorite time for people to visit. However, the peak tourist season also ushers in larger crowds and higher prices. In particular, hotel rates in Vienna skyrocket during the peak summer season.
It's often recommended that tourists with flexibility visit during the shoulder season. During the months of April and May, the weather is milder, but the crowds are lower. It's a peaceful time of year to visit the city, which is often blossoming to life with cherry blossoms, daffodils and tulips blooming along the city's streets.
In addition, the months of September and October are cool and comfortable. Prices for hotel rooms and tourist attractions may be slightly lower. However, fall is quickly becoming a more popular time of year to visit Vienna. If you are planning to visit during the fall, be sure to make your reservations in advance.
FAQs About Vienna
Still have questions about traveling to Vienna? AAA has all of the answers you need!
Is Vienna a family-friendly destination?
Known for being a clean and safe city, Vienna is an excellent family vacation destination. Children of all ages will enjoy the cultural sights and historical attractions in Vienna, and the efficient public transportation system makes it easy for families to get around. In fact, children 6 and under can ride public transportation for free in Vienna.
Is Vienna affordable?
When compared to other European destinations like London or Paris, Vienna is an affordable city to visit. Travelers will find that there are many free activities to enjoy in the city, and it's easy to book a budget-friendly room if you book in advance. However, prices for the top attractions and hotels in Vienna tend to be higher during the peak summer travel season.
Do I need anything other than a passport to travel to Vienna?
No, American travelers who are spending 90 days or less in the city do not need anything other than a valid U.S. passport in order to travel to Vienna.
What is Vienna famous for?
Vienna is famous for being the home of the Habsburg dynasty and the birthplace of classical music. It's also well-known for Wiener Schnitzel, grand and opulent architecture and its welcoming café culture.
Where should I stay in Vienna?
There is no shortage of options for hotels in Vienna, with some of the best places to stay in Vienna including:
- For a quiet, boutique atmosphere: Hotel Wandl
- For elegance and glamor: Hotel Topazz and Lamee
- For historic charm: Schlosshotel Roemischer Kaiser
Where is the best place to eat in Vienna?
This cosmopolitan city features a vibrant culinary scene, allowing visitors to savor and sample flavors from around the world. Some of the best restaurants in Vienna include:
- For French cuisine with a New York flair: Bouvier
- For a sultry, underground bar: Salon Paradise
Do the locals speak English in Vienna?
In the city center, most local people will speak English in Vienna. However, the primary language spoken in Vienna is Austrian German.
Ready to Visit Vienna?
Austria's capital city is a treasure trove of arts, culture and delicious cuisine, making this one of the best European cities to visit. Now is an excellent time to visit Vienna and experience a sense of sophistication and elegance like never before.
If you're inspired to start planning an Austrian vacation, make sure you talk to the AAA Travel experts. They can help you find the accommodations you want, plan an itinerary and much more.
Whether you're traveling halfway around the world or just down the road, if you're a AAA member, you can get exclusive discounts on lodging, rental cars and a whole lot more.