With a history stretching back two thousand years, it’s no wonder the list of things to do in Vienna, Austria, is truly endless. Famous for its classical music and architecture steeped in the Habsburg dynasty, the city is a cultural delight that’ll have you looking up at every turn.
Whether you’re planning a day trip, a weekend getaway, or an extended vacation, this guide covers the top ten things to do in Vienna, along with some lesser-known attractions and fun activities to do with children.
CLASSIC HIGHLIGHTS
St. Stephen’s Cathedral and Vienna’s Historic Center
The perfect starting point for exploring Vienna’s wonderful historic district, St Stephen’s Cathedral is easily one of the best things to do in Vienna. To take in this gothic marvel all at once is nearly impossible; the 12th-century church has undergone multiple alterations over the centuries, resulting in an eclectic mix of Baroque and Gothic features that make it truly unique.
It’s worth climbing the 343 steps of the South Tower for panoramic views over the city, before setting off on a self-guided or guided walking tour — one of the best free things to do in Vienna. Along the way, stop at notable landmarks such as the Hofburg Imperial Palace, the Volksgarten park, where you’ll find over 200 varieties of roses, and the vast yet incomplete Heldenplatz (Heroes’ Square).
Schönbrunn Palace
Follow the trail of tourists, and you’ll likely end up here. The spectacular and expansive gardens, paired with the elaborate and ornate state rooms, including the dazzling Hall of Mirrors, hung with crystal chandeliers, and the Millions Room, lined with rosewood paneling, make this palace one of the top things to do in Vienna.
Beyond its beauty, the palace walls have witnessed some of history’s most celebrated moments, from a 6-year-old Mozart performing in the Hall of Mirrors to the birth of Marie Antoinette, whose childhood bedroom remains largely untouched. With so much history and enough gold and glitz to make your eyes hurt, a visit here is undeniably one of the best things to do in Vienna.
The Albertina
Named after the Duke Albert of Saxe-Teschen and Archduchess Maria Christina, who famously married for love (considered unconventional at the time), the Albertina showcases one of the largest graphic collections in the world. Housed within one corner of the impressive Imperial Palace, the largest of the Habsburg dynasty, highlights include the State Rooms, gilded in gold, and well-loved masterpieces from Dürer, Klimt, Picasso, and Monet.
THINGS TO DO IN VIENNA AT NIGHT
Attend a classical concert
Held all year round at some of Vienna’s most stunning and historical buildings, listening to the melodies of Mozart and Strauss shouldn’t be missed when in the city that shaped their music. The Musikverein and Wiener Konzerthaus offer the most atmospheric stages, leaving the music reverberating through you so you won’t just hear it, but feel it. For a touch of imperial grandeur, the Schönbrunn Palace Orangerie, where Mozart himself once performed, and the Vienna State Opera are sure to leave a lasting impression, with regular performances that count among the most memorable things to do at night in Vienna.
Enjoy a nightcap at a wine tavern or rooftop bar
If you’re feeling a little overwhelmed by all the cultural activities, finding a cozy bar to hang out in at night can be the perfect way to end a busy day of sightseeing. Known as “Little Paris,” the Serviten Quarter is dotted with cute wine bars featuring dimly lit frescos and plenty of local and, as the name suggests, French wines.
For sweeping city views, you can’t go past the Lamee Rooftop bar, which serves up delicious cocktails, including Europe’s most in vogue summer drink — a spritz of your choice. Another hotspot is the hip and trendy Der Dachboden rooftop bar. Considered one of the most popular things to do in Vienna for young adults, it offers epic views, colorful decor, live music, and reasonably priced drinks.
TOP THINGS TO DO IN VIENNA ON A BUDGET
Ride Walter Basset’s Giant Ferris wheel
Few experiences feel as quintessentially Viennese as taking in the view of a lifetime from the Vienna Giant Ferris Wheel. A family-friendly favorite and a special spot for a romantic date, it offers spectacular views of the city from the best seats in the house – 65 meters in the sky. Best experienced at sunset, this activity pairs perfectly with a visit to Prater amusement park, making it one of the ideal cheap things to do in Vienna.
If you’re looking for other affordable activities in Vienna, be sure to check out our Free Things to Do in Vienna blog post for some more great ideas.
Wander through the MuseumsQuartier
The MuseumsQuartier has something for everyone, and should be top of your list if you’re looking for things to do in Vienna for free. From live music and art exhibitions to countless museums and unique architecture, the hours will simply fly by. Considered one of the top artistic hubs in the world, you’ll not want to miss the Leopold Museum, which houses the world’s largest collection of Egon Schiele works, or the MUMOK, the largest modern and contemporary art museum in Central Europe.
If you’re looking for things to do in Vienna with kids, be sure to visit the ZOOM Kindermuseum, which hosts workshops and hands-on exhibitions designed specifically for children. Don’t miss the hidden Street Art Passage, too, where you’ll find vibrant street art murals by local artists.
UNIQUE THINGS TO DO IN VIENNA
Explore Hundertwasser House & Kunst Haus Wien
Once you’ve had your fill of historic buildings and monuments, head to the 3rd district, where you can take a peek inside the genius mind of Friedensreich Hundertwasser. Both an artist and an architect, Friedensreich created two of the more unusual things to do in Vienna: the Hundertwasser House & Kunst Haus Wien museum. These 20th-century buildings are as colorful as they are wacky, and stepping inside the museum will give you a complete overview of his art, design, and photography.
The Third Man Museum
History buffs and film lovers will enjoy the Third Man Museum. Hailed as one of the most unique things to do in Vienna, the museum boasts an impressive memorabilia collection from film stills to movie posters and original screenplays, with very niche categories, including the zither used to play the famous theme song.
In addition, the museum extends into a comprehensive WW2 exhibition, featuring photos and documents that detail what life was like in Vienna in the late 1930s.
Local Markets and Neighborhoods
Sometimes you just want to break away from the crowds when on holiday, so it can be helpful to know of some non-touristy things to do in Vienna. Claiming the title of Europe’s longest street market is the Brunnenmarkt market in the Yppenplatz district, with more than 160 permanent stores. Open every day except Sundays, you’ll find a melting pot of food stalls serving up delicious multicultural dishes alongside homemade arts and crafts, flowers, and local eateries.
Another low-key side trip is the Donaukanal waterfront area. A haven for street artists and a great idea for those looking for things to do with kids in Vienna, you’ll find graffiti art mixed in with funky murals, right next to open-air bars, restaurants, and breweries.
Frequently asked questions
Is Vienna a walkable city? 
Yes, one of the best things to do in Vienna is to walk through the historic city center, and taking a guided tour is a great way to discover the history behind each building.
Do and don’ts in Vienna?
Tipping is becoming part of the culture at restaurants, although it isn’t obligatory. Wait staff will serve you at the table too, so there’s no need to go up to the counter.
To use the tram, train, or other public transport, it’s best to buy a transport pass using the WienMobil app. Once you have your pass, there’s no need to tap on or off when boarding; you simply must be ready to present it if asked.
What can you not miss in Vienna?
When in Vienna, the top things to do include the Hofburg and Schönbrunn Palace, the towering St. Stephen’s Cathedral, and indulging in some coffee and cake at a traditional cafe.
Where to avoid in Vienna?
While Vienna is generally considered a safe city, it pays to be cautious in certain areas in the Favoriten district and along parts of Gürtel street in Ottakring. Petty theft also happens on occasion in the city center and busy tourist areas, so always keep an eye on your belongings.
What is the must do one day in Vienna?
One of the must-see things to do in Vienna if you only have one day is a visit to the Schönbrunn Palace. It’s easy to spend a few hours here exploring each of the state rooms and the expansive grounds.
