Vienna is the enchanting capital of Austria, a place where history, art, and modern life come together harmoniously. Situated by the Danube River, this city attracts visitors with its rich culture. You will be amazed by the magnificent palaces, stunning architecture, lively music, and delicious food. Every corner of Vienna has something unique to offer, ensuring your visit will be truly memorable. Let’s talk about some noteworthy Vienna places to visit.
Top Places to Visit in Vienna
- Schönbrunn Palace
- Stephen’s Cathedral
- The Hofburg
- Vienna City Hall
- Karlskirche
1. Schönbrunn Palace
Among the places to visit in Vienna, Schönbrunn Palace is a must-visit destination. It is a magnificent Baroque palace. The palace has its roots in the mid-16th century when Emperor Maximilian II commissioned the construction of a hunting lodge on the site.
Schönbrunn Palace encompasses over 1,441 rooms, although only 45 are open to the public. Each room is lavishly decorated with exquisite furniture, magnificent chandeliers, and intricate artwork, showcasing the imperial lifestyle of the Habsburg monarchy.
In 1996, Schönbrunn Palace received the tag of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Things to do in Schönbrunn Palace
- Pay a visit to Tiergarten Schönbrunn, the oldest zoo in the world, located within the palace grounds.
- Admire the palace’s two oval rooms known as the Chinese Cabinets. The rooms are renowned for showcasing Japanese and Chinese porcelain, silk, lacquer and wood panels.
- Explore the hunting ground and the magnificent Baroque Garden.
2. St. Stephen’s Cathedral
St. Stephen’s Cathedral, also known as Stephansdom, is a Gothic masterpiece in the heart of Vienna. The construction of this place dates back to the 12th century Babenberg dynasty. The exterior of St. Stephen’s Cathedral has intricate details showcasing its beauty. This includes the famous South Tower, which reaches a height of approximately 136 meters (446 feet). Its vibrant, multi-coloured roof comprises 2,30,000 glazed tiles.
Things to do in St. Stephen’s Cathedral
- Take an elevator ride to the top of the North Tower, which houses the famous Pummerin Bell.
- Challenge yourself to climb the 343 steps of the South Tower for a panoramic view of Vienna’s cityscape.
- Descend into the catacombs beneath the cathedral and discover a hidden world of burial chambers.
3. The Hofburg
The Hofburg must be on your travel itinerary if you’re looking for the best places to visit in Vienna. The Hofburg has been the principal imperial residence of the Habsburg dynasty for over six centuries. It serves as the seat of power and administration for the Austro-Hungarian Empire. The construction of the Hofburg began in the 13th century, and it expanded over time to encompass 18 wings, 19 courtyards, and over 2,600 rooms across an area of approximately 240,000 square meters. The Hofburg also houses the Imperial Treasury, which displays a remarkable collection of imperial regalia and precious artefacts.
Things to do in The Hofburg
- Visit Sisi Museum. This place showcases Empress Elisabeth’s personal belongings, including clothing, jewellery, and personal effects.
- Explore the Austrian National Library. You will find a vast collection of historical documents, manuscripts, and books here.
- Explore the Hofburg Chapel, a beautiful place of worship that served as the private chapel for the imperial court.
4. Vienna City Hall
Vienna City Hall, also known as Rathaus, is an iconic landmark and the seat of the Landtag (i.e., the legislative assembly) and the municipal government in Vienna. The construction of Vienna City Hall took place between 1872 and 1883. The building showcases an impressive Neo-Gothic architectural style, intricate detailing, towering spires, and ornate decorations.
One of the notable features of the City Hall is its grand facade, adorned with statues and reliefs depicting historical figures and scenes. The central tower rises to approximately 98 meters (322 feet) and features the Rathausmann, a symbolic figure representing the city.
Things to do in Vienna City Hall
- You may attend various cultural events, including concerts, balls, exhibitions, and festivals that this place hosts.
- Experience the Vienna City Hall Christmas market if you visit this place in winter.
- Enjoy a light bite or scrumptious meal at cafes and restaurants.
5. Karlskirche
Karlskirche, or St. Charles Church, is a prominent Baroque church. Construction of Karlskirche took place from 1716 to 1737. Emperor Charles VI commissioned it to fulfil his vow during the city’s plague epidemic, pledging to build a church dedicated to Saint Charles Borromeo, the patron saint of plague victims.
The exterior of Karlskirche gets characterised by its imposing facade, which features two massive columns topped by statues of Saint Paul and Saint Peter. The central dome, reaching a height of approximately 70 meters (229.7 feet), is a notable feature of the church’s skyline. The interior’s high altar showcases a painting of the Assumption of Mary. One can see the side altars dedicated to Saint Anthony of Padua and Saint Francis of Assisi.
Things to do in Karlskirche
- Explore the interiors and admire the paintings, stonework etched in marble, and intricately carved statues.
- Take the elevator to the top of the building and enjoy a splendid view of the surroundings.
- Purchase a ticket to enjoy Vivaldi’s Four Seasons Concert.
Best Time to Visit Vienna
The best time to plan a trip to Vienna is during the shoulder seasons of spring (April to May) and fall (September to October). The weather is pleasant during these times, and the city is less crowded than in the peak summer months. You can enjoy the serene parks and gardens in bloom, cultural events like the Vienna Festival, and the traditional wine season in September. Winter is also magical with Christmas markets, but be prepared for colder temperatures.
Travel Insurance for Vienna
It would be best to buy travel insurance before flying to Vienna to protect yourself against unexpected events. It provides coverage for medical emergencies, including hospitalisation and evacuation costs. Additionally, travel insurance can reimburse expenses for lost or delayed baggage, trip cancellation or interruption, and flight delays or cancellations. Vienna is a popular tourist destination with various activities and attractions, so having travel insurance safeguards your investment if unforeseen circumstances disrupt your plans.