Are you planning a trip to Vienna but worried about the weather? Or are you already there and it’s started raining? Well, don’t let a little rain dampen your spirits! Vienna has plenty of indoor activities and things to do that will keep you entertained, no matter how long the rain lasts. From museums and art galleries to shopping and spa experiences, Vienna has something for everyone. Here are some of the best things to do in Vienna when it rains.
The weather in Vienna
Throughout the year it’s not uncommon to experience rain showers in Vienna throughout the day. The weather is generally sunnier and warmer throughout the summer, although rain can still occur. The spring and autumn time will also include some rain throughout the months. The good news is that Vienna is a city that’s prepared for all types of weather, with plenty of activities to keep you dry. Make sure to pack an umbrella and a light jacket, just in case.
Best things to do in Vienna when it rains
Vienna is a city with a rich cultural history, and there’s no better way to explore that history than through its many museums and art galleries. From classical art to modern masterpieces, Vienna has it all. But that’s not all there is to do on a rainy day in Vienna. Below are some of the best activities the city has to offer.
1. Visit some of the city’s museums
Vienna is home to some of the world’s most impressive museums, and a rainy day is the perfect time to explore them. The Kunsthistorisches Museum is a must-visit for art lovers, with an impressive collection of paintings and sculptures from the likes of Rembrandt, Rubens and Vermeer. The Natural History Museum is another popular choice, with exhibitions on everything from dinosaurs to space.
For those interested in Austrian history, the Hofburg Palace is a must-visit. This former imperial palace now houses several museums, including the Sisi Museum and the Imperial Apartments. The Austrian National Library is also worth a visit, with its stunning architecture and impressive collection of books and manuscripts.
2. Explore an art galleries
Vienna is a city that takes its art seriously, and there are plenty of art galleries to explore on a rainy day. The Belvedere Palace is home to some of the most impressive art collections in the city, with works by Gustav Klimt and Egon Schiele on display. The Albertina Museum is another popular choice, with its impressive collection of prints and drawings.
For something a little more contemporary, head to the Museum of Modern Art (MUMOK), which houses works from the 20th and 21st centuries. The Leopold Museum is another great choice, with its collection of Austrian art from the 19th and 20th centuries.
3. Relax in cosy cafes and restaurants
One of the best ways to spend a rainy day in Vienna is by cosying up in a cafe or restaurant. Vienna is home to some of the cosiest cafes in the world, with a variety of cakes, pastries and drinks to warm you up. Cafe Central is a popular choice, with its impressive architecture and rich history. Cafe Demel is another good option, known for its delicious cakes and pastries. These are just a few cafes but you’ll find plenty more all over the city. See more on the official tourism website wien.info.
For something a little more savoury, head to one of Vienna’s traditional restaurants, where you can warm up with a bowl of goulash or Wiener Schnitzel. Lugeck is a popular choice, with its cosy atmosphere and traditional Austrian cuisine. Figlmüller is another great option, with its famous schnitzel and cosy atmosphere.
4. Head to the shops
Vienna is a great place for shoppers, with plenty of options to explore on a rainy day. The Graben and Kohlmarkt are two of the city’s most popular shopping streets, with high-end boutiques and luxury brands. Another option is the shopping street of Mariahilfer Straße with a huge number of shops stretching between Westbahnhof and Museumsquartier. For something a little more unique, head to the Naschmarkt, where you’ll find a variety of food, clothing, and antique vendors.
5. Enjoy a spa and wellness experience
If you’re looking for a more relaxing way to spend a rainy day in Vienna, why not head to one of the city’s many spas and wellness centres? Therme Wien is a popular choice, with its variety of pools, saunas, and relaxation areas. For something a little more unique, head to the Palais Hansen Kempinski Vienna, where you can relax in the hotel’s luxurious spa and wellness centre.
6. Theaters and concerts
Vienna is a city with a rich cultural history, and there’s no better way to experience that culture than through its many theatres and concert venues. The Vienna State Opera is a must-visit, with its impressive productions of classic operas and ballets. The Burgtheater is another popular choice, with its variety of plays and performances.
For something a little more intimate, head to the Konzerthaus, where you can experience classical music in a smaller venue. The Musikverein is another popular choice, known for its impressive acoustics and variety of musical performances.
7. Make the most of the rain with photography
If the rain isn’t too heavy or stops and starts then this is a good opportunity to make the most of it and take some more unique photographs. You can use puddles to try and capture reflections or use stormy clouds to add some mood to your pictures.
As well as this at night many of the landmarks in the city are lit up and are extremely beautiful to see and photograph. You’ll also find some of the streets in the central district of the city are really beautiful with cobbles and pretty architecture.
Read our article on the best photography spots in Vienna to see all the top locations around the city.
Summary
As you can see, there’s no shortage of activities to enjoy on a rainy day in Vienna. From museums and art galleries to shopping and spa experiences, Vienna has something to keep everyone happy. So the next time you’re in Vienna and the rain starts to fall, don’t worry. Just head to some of the activities mentioned above and explore all that this beautiful city has to offer.
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