Vienna
Vienna is a city where imperial history meets modern European life. Explore magnificent palaces, world-class museums, historic streets, beautiful parks and vibrant neighbourhoods — all connected by one of Europe’s most efficient public transport systems.
Explore Vienna →What to do in Vienna
Start with a few places that give you a feel for the city — then follow your own route.
Schönbrunn Palace
If this is your first trip to Vienna, Schönbrunn is one of the places I would put near the top of the list. The palace was the summer residence of the Habsburgs and today you can visit the historic rooms as well as the huge park. The gardens are actually one of the best parts of the visit, especially if the weather is good. You can walk up to the Gloriette for a nice view over the palace and the city. You don't necessarily need to spend the whole day here, but it is worth giving yourself a few hours. Tip: The palace is very popular, so booking your visit in advance can save you from standing in a long queue.
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Vienna Historic Centre
The historic centre is where you get the classic Vienna experience. Start around St. Stephen's Cathedral and simply walk. You will pass old buildings, small streets, cafés, shops and some of the city's most famous landmarks. You don't really need a strict plan here. Some of the nicest parts of central Vienna are the streets and squares you come across between the major sights. If you have never been to Vienna before, I would leave at least half a day for walking around the centre.
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Belvedere Palace
Belvedere is a good choice if you like art, architecture or simply want to see another beautiful part of Vienna. The complex consists of two Baroque palaces surrounded by gardens. The Upper Belvedere is particularly famous for its collection of Gustav Klimt, including The Kiss. Even if museums aren't really your thing, the gardens and the view towards the palace are worth seeing.
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Prater
It is a large green area with an amusement park, restaurants, walking paths and the famous Giant Ferris Wheel. The wheel has become one of the symbols of Vienna and has been standing here since 1897. You can come here just for a walk, go on a few rides or stay until the evening when the amusement park becomes much more atmospheric. It's also a good place to visit if you're travelling with friends and don't want another day of museums and historic buildings.
Explore →Best areas to live in Vienna
Different neighbourhoods suit different lifestyles. These four areas are a useful starting point.
Innere Stadt
Innere Stadt is Vienna's central district and the place to live if you want almost everything right outside your door. You are surrounded by historic buildings, restaurants, cafés, museums and shops. The downside is that it is also one of the busiest and most touristy parts of the city. For a short stay it is extremely convenient. For everyday life, whether you like it will depend on how much you enjoy being in the middle of the action.
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Leopoldstadt
Leopoldstadt is a good option if you want to stay relatively close to the centre but prefer more space and greenery. The Prater is here, and there are plenty of places to walk, cycle or simply get away from the busy streets for a while. It is also well connected to the rest of Vienna, which makes the district practical for everyday life.
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Neubau
Neubau has a completely different feeling from the historic centre. There are lots of cafés, small shops, restaurants, bars and creative spaces. It is one of the areas where you can spend an afternoon just walking around without having a particular destination. If you like a more urban and lively neighbourhood rather than grand imperial streets, Neubau is worth looking at.
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Währing
Währing is more residential and generally feels quieter than the central districts. There are parks, older residential buildings, cafés and plenty of normal everyday city life. It can be a good choice if you want to live in Vienna rather than feel like you are constantly staying in the tourist centre. It is also worth considering if you prefer a calmer neighbourhood but still want reasonably easy access to the centre.
Explore area →Living in Vienna
Living in Vienna is about finding the right balance between work, transport, housing and the things you actually enjoy doing after work.
A few things to keep in mind
Austria is easy to explore, but each city has its own rhythm. Give yourself time to walk around, use public transport and see where locals actually spend their time.
- Check the neighbourhood before choosing accommodation.
- Public transport is often the easiest way to move around.
- Weekdays and weekends can feel like two different cities.
Popular Vienna guides
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Compare Vienna with other cities
Looking at more than one city? Explore Austria beyond Vienna.