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Vienna attracts millions of visitors every year, and for good reason. This city breathes history, with magnificent Baroque palaces, world-famous operas and, of course, the famous coffee houses. But a city break Vienna is more than just that. You'll also find plenty of surprising hotspots, hip neighborhoods and green, sprawling parks. We wandered through the nicest streets and past the most beautiful sights in Vienna and collected the best tips for you, so you don't miss a thing during your city break to Vienna. Ready for an unforgettable city trip full of discoveries? These are our best tips for Vienna, from sights to restaurants!
1. Stroll through the beautiful center of Vienna
The typical Viennese charm is best experienced by wandering through the city on foot. After all, Vienna is practically one big imperial monument. You will not get bored. As you walk through narrow streets and across wide squares, you pass beautiful palaces, historic churches and classic coffee houses, where it seems as if time stands still.
Be surprised by the beautiful details in the facades, listen to the echo of classical music and, above all, take the time to settle down on a terrace. After all, that is the way to really experience the city and get your city break in Vienna off to a good start.
2. Admire the baroque splendor at Belvedere Castle
One of the absolute highlights in Vienna is Belvedere Palace. This magnificent Baroque palace complex consists of the Upper and Lower Belvedere, surrounded by beautiful gardens through which you can stroll. Inside you will find three museums with world-renowned art collections, including the largest collection of works by Gustav Klimt, with his iconic painting "The Kiss. But art from the 19th and 20th centuries is not lacking either, giving art lovers a treat.
Because Belvedere Castle is a popular attraction, we recommend visiting this palace complex and its museums in the morning. That way you will not only enjoy the art, but also the tranquility of the gardens before the crowds hit. Also, don't forget to take a moment to take in the view from the Upper Belvedere, where you'll have an insane panorama of the city of Vienna.
3. The world-famous opera at the Wiener Staatsoper (Opera House).
A city break in Vienna is not complete without a visit to the Wiener Staatsoper, the city's iconic opera house. The impressive building alone is a picture to admire, with its beautiful facade and rich history. But the real highlight, of course, is attending a performance. From classical operas to enchanting ballets, here you will experience Vienna's extraordinary musical culture in all its glory.
Want to experience the magic of opera too? Then be sure to order your tickets in time, as the performances are very popular and often sell out quickly. Score your ticket to the Wiener Staatsoper here!
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4. Take a look at the Spanish Riding School: lipizzaners and classical dressage
Want to discover a unique sight in Vienna? Then be sure to visit the famous Spanish Riding School. Here you will admire the elegant Lipizzan horses during impressive dressage performances, a tradition that has been cherished for centuries. The Spanish Riding School has existed for 450 years, making it the oldest riding school still in existence. The magnificent baroque building where the performances take place, Hofburg Palace, exudes history and style.
5. Go to the top of Stephansdom, a Gothic cathedral and observation tower
St. Stephen's Cathedral is one of the most famous sights in Vienna and the symbol of the city. You will find this impressive Gothic cathedral in the middle of the historic center. An absolute must is to climb the tower. Via a narrow spiral staircase you will reach the top, where you will be rewarded with a breathtaking view of Vienna and the surrounding districts.
Inside you will find beautiful stained-glass windows, ancient works of art and an impressive altar. Combine your visit to St. Stephen's Cathedral with a stroll through the lively streets around it, where you will find all kinds of cozy restaurants, bars and stores.
6. Unwind completely in the Wiener Stadtpark
Need a nice break after admiring all the historical highlights? Then head to Vienna's cozy city park, the Wiener Stadtpark. This green heart of the city is loved by locals and visitors alike, especially in the summer when the sun shines and the park comes alive.
You will find beautiful walking paths, ponds and many flower beds, as well as the famous statue of Johann Strauss, the world-famous violinist and composer of many waltzes.
Sit on one of the many benches with a nice coffee and contemplate the quiet city life around you. This will immediately give you the feeling of what it is like to relax in the city as a Vienna native. Highly recommended during your city break in Vienna!
7. Secure a spot at one of these fun hotspots in Vienna
Time for something sweet? Vienna is full of nice restaurants, bars and fine breakfast spots and coffee shops. And believe us: on a city break you really don't want to eat only schnitzels (although of course you can).
Start your day off right with a delicious breakfast at Coffee & Friends. This cozy coffee shop serves freshly baked sandwiches, bagels and excellent coffee. You'll find them in several locations around town, including Landstraße and Julius-Tandler-Platz, near Belvedere Castle. An ideal start before exploring the city further. You will also find nearby Falco's Restaurant, a fine place for a typical Viennese lunch.
For high-quality sushi, you have to be a little outside the center, at Zhi Wei Wien. The menu is extensive, but the absolute must is the sushi boat: a hefty wooden boat full of fresh sushi to enjoy together. A nice change from all the classic Austrian food.
Prefer Italian? Then you're in the right place at Viva La Mamma Wien. Here they serve stone-oven pizzas with deliciously crispy bottoms and fresh pastas.
Cocktails, as far as we're concerned, can be had at Juwel Wien, a rooftop bar that offers fantastic views of the city in the summer. Watching the sun set over Vienna with a cocktail in hand: it doesn't get any more beautiful than that.
8. Visit the impressive Schönbrunn Palace
Schönbrunn Palace feels like a step back in time, with its lush Baroque style and sprawling gardens where you can wander for hours. This palace was the summer residence of Empress Sisi and still exudes that royal atmosphere. We loved getting lost among the colorful flower beds, fountains and the Gloriette viewpoint. That view, wow!
Inside, you can admire the richly decorated rooms. Combine your visit with a guided tour to discover all the stories behind the walls.
Tip: purchase in advance a skip-the-line ticket to the Schönbrunn Palace, to make the most of your visit and time.
The best places to stay in Vienna
Vienna has several fine neighborhoods where you can stay wonderfully. We stayed near Belvedere Castle in the district Landstraße, the ideal base for exploring the city. You'll find the beautiful palace gardens around the corner, and there are plenty of great restaurants nearby. Our absolute favorite? The Ruby Sofie Hotel Vienna. Located in the historic building of the former Sofiensäle Concert Hall, it is totally hip and trendy inside. The library features antique furniture and original items from the building's past. And you can have organic breakfast there, a plus!
Want to experience a little more of the vibrant city life? Then the Innere Stadt, Vienna's historic center, a good choice. Here you can walk straight from your hotel to St. Stephen's Cathedral, the Hofburg and lively squares. Stay for example in Motel One Wien-Staatsoper. A cozy hotel with comfy beds and excellent breakfast.
For a hip, creative neighborhood, you need to be in Neubau are. Here you'll find vintage stores, hip coffee shops and a relaxed young vibe, but without the hustle and bustle of downtown. The well-reviewed 25hours Hotel beim MuseumsQuartier for example, is an awesome hotel here, with the striking design and cheerful design.
Also Ruby Marie Hotel Vienna, in a former renovated department store, is highly recommended.
How do I get to Vienna?
The most popular way to travel to Vienna is by plane, but you can also travel by train, bus and car. There are daily direct flights from Amsterdam and Eindhoven to Vienna, operated by KLM, Austrian Airlines, easyJet and Transavia, among others. The flight takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. For a return trip to Vienna you pay between €70 and €180 on average, depending on the season and how early you book.
Traveling by train to Vienna can also do well. From the Netherlands, you first take the Intercity to Germany, and there change to international trains to Vienna. Total travel time does range around 10 to 12 hours, but it's an ideal way to travel if you also want to see some of the scenery along the way. There is also a night train to Vienna, the Nightjet. Prices start at €35 per person for a seat, but there are also sleeping compartments. You sleep as you travel and arrive in the center of Vienna rested, how nice! View here The different options for the night train from the Netherlands to Vienna.
Once you arrive in the city, it is very easy to use public transportation. There are subways (U-Bahn), streetcars and buses. A day pass (24, 48 or 72 hours) is often cheaper than single tickets. You can also do a lot on foot, especially in the old center.
Just more practical tips for your city break Vienna
Vienna is a beautiful destination all year round, but spring and fall are ideal for a city break. In April, May, September and October the weather is often pleasant and less crowded than in summer. Although, we were there in the summer and then the atmosphere is also very nice. Keep in mind the high temperatures. In December, Vienna is beautifully decorated with Christmas markets, but a lot colder.
Also consider buying a Vienna City Pass for your city break in Vienna. With the Vienna City Pass you get discounts at museums and attractions, and unlimited public transportation. Handy if you plan to visit a lot!
Combine your city break Vienna with Budapest
Do you have a little more time? Then combine your city break to Vienna with Budapest! The Hungarian capital is just 2.5 hours away by train. You'll be from the baroque palaces in Vienna to the Danube in Budapest in no time. Several direct trains run daily between the cities. It is a fine way to travel, affordable and a beautiful way to explore the region. Ideal for a mini-round trip through Central Europe. And if you book in time, it sometimes costs as little as €25.00 for two people.
Curious about what to do in Budapest? We share the most beautiful sights in Budapest and The best to do's and activities in Budapest with you.
Naomi van Hagen
Curious, creative and passionate about travel, I’m always on the lookout for unique destinations where culture, gastronomy and adventure come together. As a travel blogger, I share personal stories and insider tips from countries like Brazil, Greece, Indonesia, Thailand and Peru, from hidden gems and rich traditions to unforgettable culinary experiences. My blogs are based on real travel experiences and in-depth local knowledge. Ready to plan your own adventure? As a personal travel consultant, I’ll help you create a tailor-made trip that perfectly suits your travel dreams.
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