Vienna is the capital and largest city of Austria, serving simultaneously as a federal state. One of Europe's most culturally rich capitals, Vienna was the seat of the Habsburg dynasty for centuries and remains a global center for music, art, architecture, and intellectual life. Its historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Top attractions
The most popular and significant attractions in Vienna.
-
1
Schönbrunn Palace
UNESCO World Heritage Site and former summer residence of the Habsburg imperial family. The 1,441-room Baroque palace is surrounded by extensive formal gardens with the Neptune Fountain, Roman Ruins, and Gloriette hill pavilion offering panoramic views of Vienna.
Tip: Book tickets online to skip queues. Visit the Gloriette for best city views. The gardens are free to enter.
-
2
St. Stephen's Cathedral
Vienna's most iconic landmark and Gothic masterpiece at the heart of the city. The cathedral's distinctive multi-colored zigzag tile roof and 136-metre South Tower dominate the skyline. The catacombs hold the remains of thousands of plague victims.
Tip: Climb the South Tower (343 steps) for the best views. Free entry to the main nave. Evening visits are atmospheric.
-
3
Belvedere Palace
Stunning Baroque palace complex built for Prince Eugene of Savoy, now housing one of Austria's most important art collections including Gustav Klimt's The Kiss. The Upper and Lower Belvedere are connected by magnificent formal gardens.
Tip: Book online. Gardens are free. The Lower Belvedere has the Orangery and Marble Gallery. Evening openings on Wednesdays.
-
4
Vienna State Opera
One of the world's most prestigious opera houses, opened in 1869. Performs over 50 different operas and ballets per season. The building itself is a masterpiece of neo-Renaissance architecture along the Ringstrasse.
Tip: Standing room tickets (Stehplatz) sell for €3-6 on the day. Dress formally for evening performances. Tours depart multiple times daily.
-
5
Kunsthistorisches Museum
The Museum of Art History is one of the most important art museums in the world, housing the Habsburgs' imperial art collection. Masterpieces by Bruegel, Raphael, Vermeer, Cellini, and Velázquez fill its palatial halls.
Tip: The café inside the museum is magnificent. Allow a full morning or afternoon. Free for under-19s.
-
6
Hofburg Palace
The former imperial palace and winter residence of the Habsburgs, comprising 19 courtyards and 2,600 rooms. Today it houses the Austrian President's offices, the Spanish Riding School, the Imperial Apartments, the Sisi Museum, and the Imperial Silver Collection.
Tip: Buy the combo ticket for Imperial Apartments + Sisi Museum + Silver Collection. The Heldenplatz is free to walk through.
-
7
Naschmarkt
Vienna's most famous and vibrant open-air market stretching 1.5km along the Wienzeile. Over 120 stalls sell fresh produce, cheeses, meats, spices, international foods, and prepared dishes. On Saturdays a large flea market is added.
Tip: Visit Saturday morning for the flea market. Arrive early for freshest produce. Many stalls offer tastings.
-
8
Prater & Giant Ferris Wheel
The Prater is Vienna's most famous public park, home to the iconic Riesenrad (Giant Ferris Wheel) built in 1897. The wheel offers panoramic views of the city from its historic wooden gondolas. The Wurstelprater amusement park surrounds it.
Tip: The Ferris Wheel ride takes about 20 minutes. The park and Hauptallee are free. Great for cycling.
-
9
Vienna Woods
UNESCO Biosphere Reserve on the western and southern outskirts of Vienna, covering over 1,000 km². The forested hills offer hiking, cycling, wine villages, and panoramic viewpoints. Includes the summits of Kahlenberg, Leopoldsberg, and Hermannskogel.
Tip: Take bus 38A from Heiligenstadt to Kahlenberg. Combine with a Heuriger wine stop in Grinzing.
-
10
Hundertwasserhaus
An extraordinary residential building designed by artist Friedensreich Hundertwasser, featuring undulating floors, a roof covered in grass and trees, and a riot of color. Built between 1983-1985, it remains a lived-in apartment building open for exterior viewing only.
Tip: Visit the KunstHaus Wien across the street for more Hundertwasser works. The building is a private residence — be respectful of residents.
Tips for visiting attractions
Make the most of your sightseeing time.
Visit popular attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and harsh midday light.
Book tickets online in advance for major attractions to skip long queues and sometimes save money.
Many cities offer multi-attraction passes that include public transport. Calculate whether they save you money based on your itinerary.