Vienna, the “City of Music and Dreams,” where it’s rumored even the raindrops sound like a Mozart concerto.
Route Map & Itinerary
Best Time to Visit Vienna
From March to June, Vienna sheds its winter coat with temperatures of 10°C to 20°C.
Summer temperatures average 20°C to 25°C, making it perfect for outdoor activities, such as Prater Amusement Park and Schönbrunn Palace Gardens.
The Vienna International Film Festival and Vienna Music Film Festival are in September and November respectively. Expect large crowds with temperatures hovering between 12°C and 20°C for the whole autumn season.
Winter brings chilly temperatures ranging from 0°C to 5°C, but it’s also a peak period for the city’s beloved Christmas Markets and New Year’s celebrations.
Leaving the Airport/Train Station
Vienna has excellent rail connections to many European cities. It is also home to the Vienna International Airport, also referred to as Flughafen Wien-Schwechat.
From Vienna International Airport (Schwechat):
- City Airport Train (CAT): The quickest and most convenient option, the CAT, will whisk you from the airport to the city center (Wien Mitte) in just 16 minutes. Trains run every half hour.
- S-Bahn (Suburban Train): The S7 train connects the airport to various city stations, including Wien Mitte, Praterstern, and others. It’s a slightly slower (25-30 minutes) but budget-friendly alternative.
From Vienna’s International Train Stations (Wien Hauptbahnhof and Wien Westbahnhof):
- Subway (U-Bahn): Vienna’s U-Bahn system is efficient and well-connected. Both train stations are linked to the U1 line, which will take you to the city center and major attractions.
- Trams and Buses: Trams and buses are also available from the train stations, offering easy access to various parts of the city.
Taxis and ride-sharing services, like Uber and FREE NOW, are also readily available.
Where to Stay in Vienna
We recommend staying in a central location within the city centre for easy access to tourist atteactions. Consider neighbourhoods like Innere Stadt, the city’s historic heart, or Leopoldstadt, which offers scenic views along the Danube Canal.
Booking.comItinerary
Day 1: Historic and Cultural Landmarks
Our tip to the City of Dreams begins at Votiv Church, a masterpiece of neo-Gothic architecture. Its history can be traced back to the attempted assassination of Emperor Franz Joseph in 1853. As gratitude for his survival, the church was commissioned to commemorate the event.
A short stroll away is the Vienna Town Hall. Also known as “Wiener Rathaus,” this iconic Gothic Revival building has held a central role in Vienna’s administrative and cultural life since its completion in the late 19th century. Throughout the year, the building is host to numerous events, including the world-famous Rathausplatz Christkindl Christmas Market.
Next on our itinerary is the Vienna Parliament. Designed by architect Theophil Hansen, it’s construction began in 1874 and concluded in 1883. The building features Corinthian columns, as well as statues of Austrian historical and philosophical figures. The Parliament building has been witness to several historic moments. Notably, it was here that the First Austrian Republic was proclaimed in 1918.
Maria-Theresien-Platz is a beautiful square nearby that houses two museums: the Natural History Museum and the Art History Museum. Take your pick and you could easily spend hours wandering through these exhibit halls. Art craving not entirely fulfilled? There’s still time to head to MuseumsQuartier Wien – a vibrant cultural complex with a mix of modern and contemporary art museums.
Wrap up Day 1 at Naschmarkt, Vienna’s renowned open-air market. Stroll through the lanes, trying Austrian street food and shopping for souvenirs.
Day 2: Royalty and Cultural Elegance
Begin your second day at the Vienna State Opera, one of the world’s leading opera houses. Founded in 1869, this building was designed by Eduard van der Nüll and August Sicard von Sicardsburg. The opera offers a diverse schedule of classical operas, contemporary works, and celebrated ballets.
Hofburg Palace is next on the must-do list. One of Vienna’s most-visited attractions, this palace served as the seat of the Habsburg monarchs, one of the most influential royal families in European history. Explore the various sections of the palace, such as the Imperial Apartments and the Sisi Museum.
Hofburg palace is also home to the Austrian National Library and the Spanish Riding School. Schönbrunn Palace (winter residence for the royals) although not listed in this itinerary, is a popular destination worth a visit if you have the time.
If Day 1 was for art, Day 2 is for shopping. Wander along Graben, one of Vienna’s most famous shopping streets. Lined with upscale boutiques, cafes, and historic architecture, you’re truly spoiled for choice.
St. Stephen’s Cathedral is our last stop for Day 2. Its origins trace back to the 12th century, although over the centuries, it has undergone multiple expansions and renovations. The cathedral is celebrated for its South Tower, which is adorned with intricate roof patterns. The cathedral also houses catacombs and a collection of historic bells, including the massive Pummerin.
Day 3: Art, Architecture, and Amusement
Our last day in Vienna begins at Belvedere Palace. Explore the Upper and Lower Belvedere, as well as world-renowned art collections, such as Gustav Klimt’s “The Kiss.” The palace’s beautifully landscaped gardens also offer stunning panoramic views.
Next, visit the colorful and unconventional Hundertwasser House, designed by the visionary artist Friedensreich Hundertwasser. Completed in 1985, it features uneven floors, tree-like columns, and a rooftop garden. Hundertwasser’s vision was to create a blend of nature and human habitation, and the result is a vibrant, multicolored structure that defies straight lines and uniformity.
Enjoy your last few hours at Prater Park with a leisurely walk or bike rental. Don’t miss a ride on the famous Giant Ferris Wheel (Riesenrad). If you’re feeling adventurous, venture into the Prater Amusement Park, where you can enjoy rides and traditional fairground fun.
Nightlife in Vienna
Vienna’s cocktail scene is booming. Head to krypt. or Eberts Cocktailbar for strong drinks and tasty bites.
For a taste of Vienna’s traditional culture, visit a heuriger in the Grinzing or Nussdorf districts. These rustic taverns serve up local wines, traditional Austrian cuisine, and live folk music.
Alternatively, head to live music venues like Porgy & Bess and Reigen, which often host both local and international artists.
If you’re more of a people-watcher, indulge in late-night Viennese café culture. Vienna’s coffeehouse culture is UNESCO-listed, and a visit to the city’s historic cafes is a journey through time. Café Central and Café Sperl are popular options, offering pastries, coffee, and stronger drinks even into the wee hours.
Food
Similar to Hungary, Austria boasts its own rendition of goulash. This hearty stew combines tender beef with paprika and other spices, and is often served with bread dumplings or noodles.
Vienna’s sweet side shines through its world-famous Sachertorte. This rich chocolate cake, layered with apricot jam, and topped with a glossy chocolate glaze, is a slice of indulgence. Enjoy it with a dollop of freshly whipped cream.
Another beloved dessert is Apfelstrudel, a flaky pastry filled with spiced apples and raisins. Served warm and dusted with powdered sugar, it’s the perfect comfort food, especially when paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
At the top of our recommendation list is Seven North, a local favorite renowned for its fish, pizza, meat dishes and desserts. Expect Instagrammable interiors and an incredible atmosphere.
The Chat
Sim: How expensive was Vienna?
Kat: The hotels were expensive. It didn’t feel like value for money. Maybe it’s because of the location? We were next to the train station. But even then, we still had to use public transportation to get to the centre. It’s not entirely a walkable city.
Sim: So would you recommend then for people to splurge a bit more and stay right in the centre?
Kat: Absolutely. Stephenplatz & Graben are good areas that might make it worth it.
Sim: What was the food like?
Kat: It was quite hit or miss to be honest.
Sim: What is Austrian food anyways?
Kat: Goulash, sausages, schnitzel etc etc
Sim: You visited in winter, right? How different do you think the city would have been in summer?
Kat: Belvedere Palace Gardens would probably have been a lot more impressive.
Sim: Come to think of it, do you think the hotels were more expensive beacuse it was winter? I believe that’s their peak season.
Kat: That’s possible. The Vienna Christmas Markets are world renowned. And during that season, there’s a whole lot more classical music concerts happening as well. People really get into it; even dressing up in fancy ballroom outfits.
Sim: Ooh! That sounds fun! Fun fact, I do occasionally dabble in classical music myself. Mozart & Beethoven & them man.
Kat: Do you!? Would you go visit?
Sim: Austria is not a country I’d ever thought about visiting. But after reading this blog post, I might have to.
Leave a Reply