Vienna, the capital city of Austria is where history, culture, and beauty collide. Whether you have 24 hours or a few days to spare, Vienna has plenty to offer. Below we will guide you through 5 top things you must not miss during a short trip to Vienna. From exploring the enchanting Old Town to indulging in the city’s café culture and savouring traditional Viennese cuisine, get ready for an unforgettable experience. So keep reading for five unmissable things to do in Vienna, perfect for anyone visiting the city for the first time.
Planning your short trip to Vienna
Before we delve into the Vienna must-see attractions, it’s important to plan your short trip wisely. The city is a place with countless treasures, so it’s essential to prioritize your time.
Start by creating an itinerary that aligns with your interests and preferences and check the opening hours of attractions. Additionally, consider purchasing a Vienna City Card, which offers unlimited travel on public transport and discounts for various attractions. This will help you make the most of your time while saving money.
Why Vienna is great for a short trip
Vienna is a compact city, which makes it ideal for a short trip such as for 24 or 48 hours. Most of the major attractions are located within a relatively small area, allowing you to explore multiple sites without wasting precious time commuting. The city’s efficient public transportation system, including trams, buses, and the U-Bahn (subway), makes it easy to navigate from one place to another.
As well as this Vienna’s rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant cultural scene ensure that every moment spent here is a memorable one. So, even if your trip is short, Vienna will leave a lasting impression.
5 top things not to miss in Vienna
1. Explore Vienna’s Old Town (Innere Stadt)
Start your Vienna adventure by immersing yourself in the historic heart of the city – the Innere Stadt. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to magnificent architectural wonders, charming cobblestone streets, and vibrant squares.
Begin your exploration at the iconic St. Stephen’s Cathedral (Stephansdom), a Gothic masterpiece that dominates the skyline. Take a guided tour to learn about its fascinating history and climb the South Tower for panoramic views of the city. As you wander through the narrow lanes, marvel at the elegant buildings, such as the Hofburg Palace, the Austrian Parliament, and the Vienna State Opera. Don’t miss the Graben, a bustling shopping street lined with exquisite boutiques and traditional Viennese cafes. This is particularly impressive in Vienna at Christmas when they hang stunning chandeliers along the street.
How long do you need?
2-3 hours will allow you to have a good look around and possibly visit some of the churches, shops, cafes and viewpoints nearby.
Closest stations
Stephansplatz is the most central station in the city but you could also get off at Karlsplatz, MuseumsQuartier, Schwedenplatz, Volkstheater or Herrengasse and then walk.
2. Visit the Schönbrunn Palace
No visit to Vienna is complete without experiencing the grandeur of the Schönbrunn Palace. This opulent baroque palace, once the summer residence of the Habsburg dynasty, is a true architectural marvel.
Explore the lavishly decorated rooms on a guided tour and learn about the intriguing stories of the royal family. Afterwards, take a stroll through the magnificent gardens, which are adorned with sculptures, fountains, and vibrant flowers. Climb up the Gloriette, a triumphal arch, for breathtaking views of the palace and the city. If time permits, catch a classical concert at the Orangery, where Mozart himself once performed.
Note that you don’t just have to visit the inside to enjoy the Schönbrunn Palace as the main gardens and exterior are free to see and explore. As well as this there is a zoo, a swimming pool and various other attractions within the grounds if you have the time.
If you only have 24 hours in Vienna and you’ve not seen this attraction before then this should be towards the top of your itinerary.
How long do you need?
2-4 hours is a good amount of time to spend at the Schönbrunn Palace so as to enjoy it without rushing. You will generally need more time if you are visiting the interior of the palace vs if you are just going for a wander around the gardens and enjoying it from the outside.
Closest stations
Schönbrunn is the closest station and then it’s a short walk. There are also tram stops nearby that you could also consider.
3. Experience the cafe culture
Vienna’s cafe culture is legendary, and immersing yourself in this tradition is a must-do during your short trip. Head to Café Central, a historic coffeehouse that was frequented by famous intellectuals such as Freud and Trotsky. Indulge in a slice of Sachertorte, a delectable chocolate cake, paired with a cup of Vienna coffee (Wiener Melange).
Another iconic café to visit is Café Demel, known for its exquisite pastries and charming atmosphere. Take your time to savour the flavours, relax, and soak up the Viennese ambience. The coffeehouses in the city are fantastic to visit and a must do in Vienna.
How long do you need?
You’ll only need one of two hours max to get a taste of the cafe culture in Vienna.
Closest stations
For Cafe Central and Café Demel the subway stop Herrengasse is the closest. However central Vienna is very walkable and you could easily stop off at other stations nearby and walk.
4. Try some typical Viennese or Austrian food
One of the highlights of visiting Vienna is the opportunity to taste the city’s culinary delights. Sample the famous Wiener Schnitzel, a breaded and fried veal or pork cutlet, served with potato salad or parsley potatoes.
For a vegetarian option, try Käsespätzle, a cheesy dumpling dish that will satisfy your taste buds. Don’t forget to indulge in a slice of Apfelstrudel, a traditional Viennese apple strudel, served with vanilla sauce or a dollop of whipped cream.
To enhance your gastronomic experience, visit a traditional Viennese Heuriger (our favourites), a wine tavern, where you can savour regional wines and enjoy hearty Austrian dishes in a rustic setting.
5. See the city from a viewpoint
To fully appreciate the beauty of Vienna, make sure to see the city from a viewpoint.
One of the best spots is from the South Tower of Stephansdom (St. Stephen’s Cathedral). From here you’ll get to enjoy stunning views over the city including towards the Rathaus (City Hall) and the majestic Votive Church. The North Tower can also be visited as well and offers a different but also impressive view.
Another popular spot is the Prater Ferris Wheel (Wiener Riesenrad), an iconic landmark that offers panoramic views of the cityscape. Hop into one of the vintage cabins and enjoy a leisurely ride as you take in the breathtaking sights below.
You’ll find plenty more top places to enjoy views of the city. Read The Best Rooftop Patios and Viewpoints in Vienna for more. Capture these memorable moments with your camera and cherish them forever.
How long do you need?
For a general observation deck then only one hour would be fine. For rooftop patios where you can buy drinks and food then 1-3 hours would be nice.
Closest stations
This depends on the viewpoint you want to do, but for Stephansdom (St. Stephen’s Cathedral) then Stephansplatz is the closest.
Other top things to do if you have more time
If your short trip allows for more exploration, Vienna has plenty more to offer. Visit the Belvedere Palace, home to an impressive collection of art, including Gustav Klimt’s iconic painting, “The Kiss”. Take a leisurely boat ride along the Danube River and admire the city’s skyline from a different perspective. Explore the Naschmarkt, a vibrant open-air market where you can find fresh produce, international delicacies, and unique souvenirs. Delve into Vienna’s musical heritage by attending a classical concert at the Musikverein or the Vienna State Opera. Finally, take a stroll through the picturesque Prater Park, where you can ride the famous Riesenrad Ferris Wheel (and many other rides) and enjoy the lively atmosphere.
You’ll find heaps of travel articles on Vienna on our site, including the best things to do in the summer, the winter, at night, romantic things to do and more.
Accommodation options for your short trip to Vienna
When it comes to accommodation in Vienna, there are options to suit every budget and preference. If you prefer luxury, choose one of the city’s elegant five-star hotels, such as the Hotel Sacher or the Hotel Imperial.
For a more affordable stay, consider booking a boutique hotel or a cosy bed and breakfast in the city centre. One of our favourite hotels is the 25 Hours Hotel which won’t disappoint.
Alternatively, if you’re a budget traveller, hostels and guesthouses provide affordable options. Whichever option you choose, make sure to book in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to secure the best deals and availability.
You can use this map to find centrally located accommodation for your trip.
Summary
Even if you only have 24 or 48 hours in Vienna and your trip is short, you can still make the most of your time and create lasting memories. From exploring the historic Old Town to visiting the magnificent Schönbrunn Palace, immersing yourself in the café culture, savouring traditional Viennese cuisine, and admiring the city from a viewpoint, Vienna offers a wealth of experiences. And if you have more time, don’t forget to explore additional attractions and immerse yourself in the city’s rich cultural scene.
We wish you a wonderful trip to Vienna and have fun.
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