10 Best Things to Do and See in Vienna
Exploring Vienna on foot is one of the best ways to feel the city’s atmosphere, connect its landmark places and discover its neighbourhoods at a more natural pace.
In this guide, you will find the attractions not to miss when planning a walking route in Vienna, with simple reference points.
To go further, you can also enjoy a private guided tour in Vienna. It is a smoother way to connect places, understand details you might miss on your own and enjoy a more human, personal discovery adapted to your trip.
1. Schönbrunn Palace
Schönbrunn Palace in Vienna is one of Austria’s great historic landmarks and a vast site to explore for its Baroque architecture, ceremonial rooms, and museum spaces. Visitors can tour elegant interiors that evoke court life, as well as magnificent gardens with carefully designed vistas, fountains, pathways, and views over the city. The estate also includes several attractions for visitors, making it a place that is cultural, heritage-rich, and enjoyable for a stroll.
2. Belvedere Palace
The Belvedere Palace in Vienna is one of the city’s great Baroque landmarks and a must-see for art and architecture lovers. This vast complex brings together elegant gardens, refined facades, and several exhibition spaces showcasing major collections, especially Austrian art. A visit also reveals stunning decorated rooms, sweeping views over the city, and an atmosphere that is both prestigious and peaceful, ideal for a cultural stroll in the heart of the Austrian capital.
3. Schönbrunn Zoo
Located in the grounds of Schönbrunn Palace in Vienna, Schönbrunn Zoo is one of the city’s most popular places to visit for discovering a wide variety of animals in a lush green setting. Visitors can see species from different continents, presented in spaces designed for their well-being and for public viewing. The walk through the zoo offers both a pleasant environment, well-kept facilities, and an educational approach suited to families as well as anyone curious about nature.
4. Hofburg
In the heart of Vienna, the Hofburg is a vast historic complex that was long tied to the city’s political and cultural life. As you walk through its courtyards, façades and visitor areas, you discover a rich variety of imperial architecture, museum collections and iconic spaces that trace the history of Austria. The site is home to several museums and ceremonial venues, offering a glimpse into the splendor of the Habsburg court. It is a must-see stop for understanding Vienna’s heritage in a monumental setting.
5. Vienna Giant Ferris Wheel
The Vienna Giant Ferris Wheel, located in Prater Park, is one of the city’s most famous landmarks. This historic Ferris wheel offers panoramic views over Vienna, its rooftops, the Danube River, and the surrounding green spaces. As you ride in its cabins, you’ll enjoy both an iconic viewpoint and a charming attraction known for its nostalgic atmosphere. It is a must-see stop to experience the spirit of the Austrian capital and admire the city from above.
6. Rathausplatz
Rathausplatz in Vienna is a large iconic square in front of City Hall, in a lively central district. Its grand open space, lined with majestic architecture, is ideal for walks, gatherings, and seasonal events. Depending on the time of year, the square hosts markets, festive installations, and a fairground atmosphere that attracts both locals and visitors. It is also a great place to admire Vienna’s cityscape and take a break in the middle of the city.
7. Vienna Natural History Museum
The Natural History Museum of Vienna is one of the major museums in the Austrian capital, ideal for discovering the richness of the natural world. Its collections feature a wide variety of specimens related to geology, minerals, fossils, dinosaurs, taxidermy animals, and the evolution of life on Earth. The visit also offers scientific exhibits accessible to all, combining curiosities, knowledge, and the presentation of natural heritage. It is a must-see stop for families and science enthusiasts.
8. Belvedere Gardens
The Belvedere Gardens in Vienna offer a pleasant walk through a vast landscaped setting surrounding the Belvedere Palace. Visitors will discover manicured paths, flower beds, sloping terraces and beautiful views over the city. This garden park invites both relaxation and contemplation, with its elegant green spaces and classic atmosphere. It is a popular place for a quiet break, a romantic stroll or simply to enjoy a refined setting in one of the Austrian capital’s most iconic locations.
9. Kunsthistorisches Museum
The Kunsthistorisches Museum in Vienna is one of Austria’s great art museums, housed in a magnificent historic building on the Ringstrasse. Visitors can discover rich collections of European painting, with works by renowned masters, as well as antiquities, works of art and treasures from the former imperial collections. The museum is as captivating for the diversity of its galleries as for its elegant architecture, refined decor and classic atmosphere. It is a must-see for art and history lovers.
10. Albertina
Located in the heart of Vienna, the Albertina is one of the city’s most renowned art museums. Visitors can discover rich and varied collections, ranging from the great masters of drawing to graphic works and paintings from different periods. The museum also offers temporary exhibitions showcasing modern and contemporary art. Set in an elegant setting, the Albertina captivates visitors with both the quality of its collections and its refined atmosphere, making it a must-see stop for art lovers in Austria.
Antony M
During my travels, I looked for guides who spoke my language. This search turned out to be long and tedious. That is why I created MYTOGU (My Tourist Guide): a matching site between tourists and professional tourist guides.
