This guide will provide you plenty of ideas on what to do in Vienna in 1, 2, or 3 days! And, if you have an extra day, I have ideas for that day too!
Oh, Vienna, Vienna!
I cannot think about this city without getting all nostalgic.
I am sure you have heard about its magnificence palaces, artistic goodness, and intellectual legacy.
After all, it was the capital of the Habsburg Empire for hundreds of years. In addition, it can claim Mozart, Beethoven, and Freud as residents.
The heritage left by many still lives. In this decade, the city has been named the most prosperous, intelligent, innovative, and livable in the world (on different years, sometimes on consecutive years).
All those facts, make the city a big magnet for visitors. The awesome thing is that the variety of sights and attractions is mind-blowing. In other words, all the hype is more than true!
If you are visiting Vienna, here are tons of ideas on what to see and do in the city. I am providing a sample itinerary too. Get prepared because you are in for a great ride!
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What to Do in Vienna in 3 Days
Day 1 (or One Day in Vienna)
It is an outstanding idea to start a visit to Vienna by contemplating all its imperial splendor.
The main attractions in the city are concentrated around the Innere Stadt or Old Town. The focal point on this area is Hofburg, the former imperial palace and power seat of the Habsburg dynasty rulers. The palace includes various residences, gardens, a chapel, a library, a treasury, a theater, a riding school, mews, and stables.
This part of the city is surrounded by Ringstrasse. This circular road follows the outline of the former fortification walls.
If you have only one day in Vienna, I suggest you concentrate your sightseeing in this part of town.
Hofburg
In my opinion, a visit to Hofburg’s main residence is a must. The audio tour, included with the entrance ticket, is excellent. Even my museum-averse husband loved it. It explains in a lively way a lot of Habsburg-related history. In addition, it includes stories and random facts that help you absorb historical facts (and then repeat them a thousand times to all your friends).
We saw an exhibition about the Imperial Kitchen (more interesting than how it sounds) and entered the living quarters of Emperor Franz Joseph and Empress Sisi (Elizabeth).
The Spanish Riding School is located at the main residence entrance. A lot of people choose to see the famous Lipizzan horses performing their daily exercises. This activity has an additional cost.
Center
After the palace, it is time to hit the pedestrian part of Old Town. This is where you are going to experience the storybook Vienna. There are rows and rows of elegant buildings (and way cleaner than your own house).
While walking around, you are going to bump into Kirch St. Peter and St. Stephen’s Basilica, one of the city’s icons. It is possible to ascend to the top of the basilica and contemplate astounding views of the city and the Danube.
These streets are full of high-end shops, cafes, restaurants, and galleries. Indulge a little bit and have some ice cream, chocolate, or cake. This was my favorite area to sit down and people watch.
I recommend having something to eat before moving on to other attractions. Hey, you need strength to keep walking!
Keep in mind the well-known Café Central is located in this part of town. Pay it a visit if you want to enjoy traditional dishes and jewel-like cakes.
Do not leave the area without stopping by the Viennese Opera, one of the busiest opera houses in the world producing 50 to 60 operas per year and ten ballet productions in approximately 300 performances. It is possible to take a guided tour of the building.
RELATED: Walking Vienna’s Old Town
Karlskirche and The Belvedere
A little bit outside the Old Town, you would find Karlskirche, one of the most famous and beautiful churches in Vienna. Well, at least, it was my favorite one!
Since you are in the area, it would be a good idea to stop by The Belvedere, a complex consisting of two Baroque palaces. The palaces are magnificent works of art but the people come here to see one of Austria’s most valuable art collections, the works of Gustav Klimt (including “The Kiss”). Works by Egon Schiele and Oskar Kokoschka are housed in the palaces too.
Museums
I have covered a lot of attractions in the previous paragraphs. If you still have time and energy, museums are a great option.
Now, let me give you the lowdown, Vienna has more than 50 museums. You will need to pick and choose depending on what you like.
According to my research, the most popular museum in the city is the Museum of Art History (Kunsthistorisches Museum). This institution located at the Maria Theresien Plaza oversees a number of important sights and collections. Its twin, the Natural History Museum is a hit with families.
The Albertina is a museum housing 65,000 drawings and approximately 1 million old master prints. Good luck seeing all that.
If that is not enough for you (really?), the Museum Quarter has an area of 60,000 square meters and it holds about eight different institutions. In addition, this is an ideal place to visit in the evening since musical and theatrical productions are offered for free (at least during summer)
More of Old Town
Try not to miss the Parliament, Rathaus (City Hall), Volksgarten and Burgtheater. The plaza in front of the City Hall hosts all sorts of festivals and activities. We had the opportunity to visit during the film festival. The festival was backed up by a large array of local and international food offerings. This is a good option to spend the evening.
RELATED: Cheap Eats in Vienna
Day 2 (or 2 Days in Vienna)
Your second day in Vienna can be used to explore a bit more of the options discussed in the “Day 1” section of this post. I believe there is a lot crammed in there.
But because I like variety and exuberance, there are even more ideas for your stay in Vienna.
Naschmarkt
If you are a market lover, I have good news for you. Naschmarkt is Vienna’s largest outdoor market and one of the best I have encountered in my travels.
My senses were bombarded on all fronts for about two hours. After all, the market is about one mile long (1.5 km, yes, you read that right).
This market is full of fresh fruits, vegetables, exotic herbs, cheese, baked goods, meats, and seafood. Artisan products such as vinegar, oil, sausage, and pastries can be found too.
Plus, the market affords the opportunity to try or buy Austrian bread, cheese, and wine. World -famous Austrian cakes and pastries are there too for your enjoyment.
Rejoice since international fare such as doner kebabs, sushi, and kimchi are available in the market. I noticed this is a perfect place to sample some Mediterranean and Middle Eastern specialties. They have the plumpest, most colorful olives, figs, baklava, hummus, baba ganoush, and fruits and vegetables stuffed with feta or other regional cheeses.
You cannot go hungry in a place like this.
Related: Naschmarkt – Vienna’s Largest Outdoor Market
Schonbrunn Palace
We already talked about Hofburg. Well, with all its splendor and opulence, that was only the Habsburg’s winter palace
Schonbrunn was their summer residence.
This is no ordinary palace. It has 1,441 rooms and it is one of the most important architectural, cultural and historical monuments in Austria.
However, the magic of this place is not centered only in the main structure. An area known as the Great Parterre is full of flowers orange trees and sculptures. This French garden covering a large part of the grounds, and dating back to 1695, is free to explore nowadays.
That is not all. In addition, the palace gardens house the following:
- An Orangerie
- A Privy Garden
- A Maze
- A Palm House
- A Desert House
- A Tiergarden (here is where the zoo is located)
- Many fountains and statues
In short, Schonbrunn has enough attractions to keep you busy an entire day. By now, I am sure you are aware of the cultural powerhouse Vienna is.
Important Note: Schonbrunn is spectacular. If you have one day in Vienna, try as much as possible to include this palace in your plans.
RELATED: Schonbrunn Palace
Hundertwasserhaus
If you are into the quirky side of things the Hundertwasserhaus is for you. This house was built between 1983 and 1985 according to the ideas of Friedensreich Hundertwasser (hence the name) with architect Joseph Krawina as a co-author.
A visit to the house is short since only the exterior can be admired. I am mentioning this since this place is a bit out there (I even had problems finding it). If you are pressed for time, you may have to skip this.
The Kunst Haus Wien, a museum dedicated to the life and legacy of Hundertwasser, is located only a few blocks away from the Hundertwasserhaus.
RELATED: Hundertwasserhaus – Explosion of Color in Vienna
The Prater
The Prater is the most famous amusement park in Vienna. There you can find lots of different attractions like roller coasters, ghost trains, and carousels. Additionally, there different possibilities for an adrenaline rush. There is also a highlight for nostalgia enthusiasts, the worldwide known Giant Ferris Wheel.
Mariahilferstrasse
This is the city’s longest and most lively shopping street. It will be worth your while to explore the side streets in the 6th and 7th districts. This is where many out-of-the-ordinary shops and outlets have sprung up recently.
This is an excellent option for a lively evening.
Day 3 (or Vienna in 3 Days)
I encourage you to use this day to visit the Wachau Valley. This 24 miles (40 km) stretch of the Danube between the towns of Krems and Melk is as pretty as river valleys come. The place is a dream come true. I am not exaggerating. I felt like most of the people around were dancing on their tiptoes to the tune of imaginary music.
The problem is that a lot of people do not seem to know about this place and end up missing it. I do not want that to be you. If you are in Vienna, this must be your top day trip option.
The Wachau Valley has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it is one of the most prominent destinations in Lower Austria. The town of Krems is located 48 miles (76.6 km) from Vienna (that can be your start point).
You can book an excursion or go independently. After a sour tour, I have to recommend the “do it yourself” option. You can take the train to Krems, explore a bit, move to another town, take a boat on the most scenic part of the valley (Spitz to Melk), disembark in Melk and take the train back to Vienna. This is a trip that will go deep into memory lane.
RELATED: Why you have to visit the Wachau Valley?
If you have an extra day!
You can use your fourth day in the city to do a tour based on your tastes. You can sign up for a food, walking, Jewish history, street art, or biking tour.
Or, you can opt for another day trip. This time you can visit Bratislava, the capital and largest city of Slovakia.
Bratislava is one of the four European capitals cut by the legendary Danube River. The city has been affiliated to the Kingdom of Hungary, the Austrian Empire, the Austro-Hungarian Empire, Czechoslovakia, and other entities. Slovakia became an independent country in 1993.
Since the city was under Habsburg rule for centuries, the architecture is similar to other cities you will find in Central and Eastern Europe. However, there is a certain quirkiness and uniqueness that distinguishes Bratislava. I found the city regal and fun at the same time. I cannot recommend the city enough.
RELATED: 14 Things to See in Bratislava
There are tours that visit Salzburg, Prague, and Budapest from Vienna. To me, this is pushing the envelope too much but if you do not have time to dedicate to these cities, these tours may be an option. Having said that, while in the city, I would concentrate on the Wachau Valley, Bratislava, and castles/attractions relatively close to the city.
Sightseeing Gear
Get ready for a day of sightseeing by bringing the right gear. Here is a list of the items I pack to explore cities and towns in Europe.
- Walking Shoes – Comfortable walking shoes are a must. I recommend investing in a good pair. My go-to brands are Clarks, Tevas, and Sketchers.
- Anti-Theft Bag – Keep your belongings safe by keeping them in an anti-theft bag. The ones manufactured by Travelon have a 5-points security system including an RFID blocking pocket. >>Check out their crossbody bag here If you prefer a backpack, this one is a good option
- Sweatshirt – A sweatshirt is a must to keep me warm during chilly mornings and nights. >Click to see this great option here
- Sun Block – Do not leave the house (or the car) without applying sunblock. I repeat, always wear sunblock when outdoors. >Buy sunblock here
- Lip Balm with Sunscreen – Protect your lips by applying a balm with sunscreen. >Get one of the best lip balms here
- Wide Brim Hat – A wide brim hat is a great way to protect your scalp, face, and neck. The ones manufactured by FURTALK come with an anti-UV function. >Buy this amazing hat here
- Hand Sanitizer – Do not forget to pack hand sanitizer and sanitizing wipes.
- Sunglasses – These are another must when it comes to protecting from the sun. A polarized, sporty pair works better outdoors. >Take a look at this wonderful pair
- Water Bottle – Do not forget to bring water! Keep yours cold by taking a beautiful Hydro Flask water bottle. >Check out the insane options here
- THERMOS Tumblers – I have been a fan of the THERMOS brand since I received a tumbler as a gift. The tumblers keep drinks hot for hours. >>Buy THERMOS insulated tumblers here
- Camera – I have never gotten used to taking pictures exclusively with my phone. I prefer to use the Sony Alpha a6000. It is compact and takes gorgeous pictures. >Buy Sony Camera here
- Tripod – A compact tripod to take your photos and videos to a different level. >>Check out this popular option here
- Portable Power Bank – It is a pain to keep phones charged on trips (more if you are taking pictures, posting on social media, and navigating). Having a power bank is a lifesaver. The Anker portable charger can charge a phone 5 times. >Buy this incredible power bank here
Hope you find this guide hopeful. Now, I can only wish you the best in your visit to Vienna.
Have you been to Vienna? What would you do if you have 3 days in the city?
If you enjoyed this post, remember to share it!
Pin me, please!
Lyn @ A Hole in my Shoe says
Ah this took me back, I love Vienna and have seen many of the sights you listed. One I haven’t is Wachau Valley.
Ruth says
Glad the post took you back to some wonderful moment! I think that is what a lot of us think about Vienna.
image-in-ing: weekly photo linkup says
Beautiful photos!
Thanks for sharing with us at https://image-in-ing.blogspot.com/2017/09/inwardly-gazing-with-monochrome-eyes.html
Ruth says
Thanks for stopping by!
Photo Cache says
Very interesting. Vienna is that one city that seem to elude me. I have read so much about it from fellow bloggers and most have positive experiences. However, some “real life” people we know that visited found the locals to be on the rude side. That is not a deal breaker for me btw.
Ruth says
Honestly, your friends are right (no offense to the people of the city). The thing is that you have to comprehend certain aspects of the history and culture to understand the locals way of being. Plus, there were plenty of nice people too! We focused on those.
ladyfi says
Wow – such grand and impressive architecture! And I love the quirky side too. Great shots.
Ruth says
Thanks a lot! The architecture is grandiose. I wish I had more time for the quirky side.
Bryna | Dotted Line Travels says
What an itinerary! I’ve always wanted to visit Vienna. In fact, I dreamed that I was visiting it once, and in my dreams it was beautiful. This post will be helpful for those planning a trip there!
Ruth says
Thanks for sharing your experience. That dream sounds so lovely. I love that you dream with places. Now that I think about it, I am not sure if that has happened to me.
Rajesh says
Great tour of the city. Archotecture is amazing.
Ruth says
Thank you!
Kelleyn says
This is one city I would like to go back and explore some more. Sadly, we didn’t get to see the horses.
Ruth says
We were there 4 days but two were spent on day trips. I want to go back. At least, we had the pleasure of strolling the city once we were back on the city.
Marisa Market says
This place looks stunning! Thanks for sharing.
Ruth says
Glad you enjoyed the post!
Lolo says
I feel the same way! I can’t think of Vienna without getting nostalgic as my husband proposed there! Great itinerary for a few days! I’d love to go back and see Schonbrunn Palace covered in flowers! #WanderfulWednesday
Ruth says
Well, I guess it will be hard for you to see another city the way you see Vienna. It will be special forever.
Jeanna says
I adore the Hundertwasserhaus photos and all its color and really like the wide shots and angles you used. I was thinking about which of my lenses is best for fall photos today and decided that none of them will do.
Ruth says
Thanks Jeanna! It wasn’t easy to capture the house. There is not a lot of space between the structure and the structure in front of it. I almost had to get to the floor to capture as much as possible.
Al says
It looks awesome – this is a city high on my list of places to visit.
Ruth says
So nice to hear that! The city does not disappoints.
Vanessa Brune says
The Naschmarkt looks fabulous! And of course, I’d like to visit all the palaces and castles and basically play Sisi for a day… 😉
Ruth says
Oh that is a good idea! You will need a wig with floor length hair. In Hofburg, we learned it took an entire day to wash Sisi’s hair.
Tanja (the Red phone box travels) says
yes, I’ve been a couple of times:) well, if it’s winter than visiting all Christmas markets is a must:) #farawayfiles
Ruth says
That sounds like a great idea. I can’t think if a more perfect setting for Christmas markets!
Sharon says
Ruth, What a fabulous post! We planned to visit Vienna this summer (we got home a week ago from Europe), but the airlines cancelled that flight and we ended up having to reroute. So it’s top of the list for next time! Your post is pinned so I’ll be able to keep this info handy. It certainly is a lovely city. I’m glad to know how much you enjoyed it. Now that we’re home, it’s time to start planning our next adventure!
Ruth says
Oh no Sharon! Hope the trip wasn’t changed that much. Things happened and we have to enjoy whatever id thrown at us. Like you said, time to plan your next adventure. I am like that too.
jesh StG says
Have only once visited Vienna long time ago, and one time going through, but I think I need at least a whole week there – it’s like some of the other big cities in Europe, there is so much history that one also needs some down time to process it all. Heard that Salzburg is also worth a visit. Well done, Ruth!
Ruth says
Thanks Jesh! Yes, I think Vienna need a lot of time. The life of the Habsburgs is so interesting. I went to Salzburg many years ago and returned on May (we visited form Munich). It is such a lovely city!
Angela Vincent says
This is great. My mum and I take a european city break each year. This year it’s Brugge but I think Vienna could be top of next years list. The market looks fabulous.
Ruth says
That sounds fabulous! I will love to do something iike that with my mom. i visited her in December and we spent time in NYC.
Nell (Pigeon Pair and Me) says
Over 50 museums – that’s impressive. I love Vienna. Looking at your pictures of Hundertwasserhaus made me long to go back! I’ve tweeted, stumbled and pinned this post as it’s really useful. #FarawayFiles
Ruth says
Nell, thanks for your kindness. I appreciate the support. I am working towards creating useful and inspiring posts.
Birgit | Groove Is In The Heart says
Wow! Congrats on a very informative blog post! I’ve been to Vienna a few times and your guide has everything I would recommend to a friend ☺ My favourite attraction is Schönbrunn Palace. I agree that one needs at least a day here!
Ruth says
Birgit, I feel so elated because of your comment. I am working hard on proving useful and actionable information tor readers. It mean a lot to be validated by a person who have visited several times. Schonbrunn has to be on everybody’s list.
Kate and Kris says
I haven’t been to Vienna since I was there as a teenager and I just remember it being really expensive. It looks like it’s time to go back for a visit.
Ruth says
There is a cost associated with it but I found super cheap accommodation. Plus, we were able to eat on markets and festivals. And, water was free (there are fountains all over the historical core). Therefore, we didn’t find it that bad.
jill says
Love your photos! Especially of the market place. Thanks for sharing!
Ruth says
Your welcome Jill! The market was one of my favorite places.
Sharon Wagner says
Every day was jam packed with amazing architecture. Nice!
Ruth says
That is true! So, you get a feeling of what Vienna is all about.
Abhisek says
gorgeous photos and nicely detailed travelogue
Ruth says
Thank you! Appreciate the time you took to comment.
Kassey says
Ruth,
These are all beautiful. Vienna has been on my list of travel destinations. Hopefully I will be able to see it really soon. Three things you convinced me from this post: a.) richness of museums — I like museums so much. b.) Baroque style of buildings — makes me think of Renaissance time and c.) the fresh produce. With that being said, I will write on my travel journal some of the places you mentioned here hoping someday I’ll get to see them in person.
Ruth says
Kassey, this is awesome. I hope you can visit Vienna soon. You are right. The city has so many museums. If you enjoy them, this is the place to be.
Agness of eTramping says
Vienna is truly picturesque and romantic, Ruth! How many days would you recommend spending there?
Ruth says
Agness, I will say you can see a lot in three days. If you wan to dig deep into the city (and do some day trips), a week is ideal.
Darcee || The Bucket List Project Blog says
Thank you so much – we are headed to Vienna in a couple weeks and I have saved this page for reference as I am making my wish list of things to do this weekend. The Opera and The Prater were already must visit, but now we have some new ones to add! I can’t wait!
Ruth says
Oh really? I am a bit jealous. I would love to return to Europe this year. It is not going to happened but I guess I can relieve the continent’s corners by writing about them. Glad you got some pointers from here!
Anisa says
This post has so much useful information in it! Vienna is one of the few major cities in Western Europe that I haven’t made it to yet, but I hope to go soon. Pinning for future reference. Thanks for sharing on #TheWeeklyPostcard.
Ruth says
Seem like Vienna eludes some travelers. Hope you can make it there. Austria is different with respect to its neighbors.
The Travelling Sociologist says
Nice menu of options for visiting Vienna. I’ve never been, but would love to go – and your post will be instrumental in helping me figure out what to try. Thanks for the insights and inspiration! #FlyAwayFriday
Ruth says
Oh thank you! Hope this post will help you to see a lot of the city.
Sarah says
So many great tips in this post! We have never made it to Vienna, but I’m definitely saving this for future planning! I love visiting local markets on trips, and the Naschmark looks amazing. Thanks so much for sharing on #TheWeeklyPostcard.
Ruth says
I love visiting markets too! I you check out the blog, it is full of market posts. I had my doubts about the one in Vienna but it exceed my expectations.
Amanda - EatWorkTravel says
So much gorgeous architecture! I absolutely love the gardens at Schonbrunn Palace, definitely high on the list.
Ruth says
Schonbrunn is a world into itself. And, it is impressive. Those monarchs made sure their palaces were grandiose.
Rhonda Albom says
Vienna is such a wonderful city and the classic architecture is second to none. I hope to return and visit again someday (and spend more time than my previous brief encounter),
Ruth says
Rhonda, that is right. I like to travel because you get to discover a lot of beautiful places like Vienna. I can’t believe my dream to visit became a reality.
Connie says
Oh Vienna, I utterly adored it too – after reading this post and reliving some fantastic memories, I think I need a repeat visit!
Ruth says
Connie, I think I want to go back every time I see photos of the city. I keep seeing photos and videos and I want to discover more.
budget jan says
Those stone fruit look so delicious and life like I felt like plucking one from the screen! So much to do. I would definitely make time for Schonbrunn. Thanks for showing these beautiful images.
Ruth says
That fruit stand was my favorite from the market. I wanted to take more photos but the owner was looking at me. At least I was able to snap some pics!
Sarah says
Ahh this is bringing me back! We loved our time in Vienna so much <3 #wanderfulwednesday
Ruth says
So nice! Vienna is so charming. I have read about people who doesn’t like the city. Not sure how that can happen.
Shalon (Travl Addict) says
I love the detail in this post–especially around the palaces which I’m very keen to visit. After just walking the streets during a corporate business trip, I’ve wanted to return. For all the foodies out there, Do&Co is worth a splurge if you want a good meal and the views from the restaurant are stunning.
Ruth says
Sharon, thanks for the recommendation. I am sure foodies out there will appreciate it. I liked the food in the city a lot.
Lauren says
This is such a great Vienna Guide! I wish I had this before a visited a few years ago! I only had 2 days in the city, and it was at New Years time, so the city was pretty much dead. We did make it to Naschmarkt though, which I absolutely loved. I didn’t realize it was almost a mile long though! Must have been distracted by all the food. Just pinned this post for if I make it back to Vienna one day 😀
Ruth says
I am surprised the city was deserted during New Years time. A lot of cities are so full during that time. The market is so long but you are right, you do not feel it when you are there. You get distracted for real!
Sarah Ebner says
Austria is a gorgeous city with so much to do and is so easy to get around, as you say. Plus, as you also say, it has great cake! Our favourite museum there was the Haus Du Musik which is an absolute gem – I’d love to go again and try to conduct the orchestra! #TheWeeklyPostcar
Ruth says
Sarah, thanks for telling me about that museum. I think I have hears about it but didn’t know how enjoyable it is.
Sandy N Vyjay says
Vienna is a n enchanting city, a gem of Europe. Would love to visit the city. Associate it nostalgically with the Sound of Music.
Ruth says
A lot of people associated with the Sound of Music. Hard to admit but I have never seen the movie.
Courtney Minor says
Vienna looks like such a beautiful city! The buildings are all incredible–I definitely need to add this city to my Europe bucket list. #FlyAwayFriday
Ruth says
Courtney, I believe the same! Vienna needs to be on every one of Europe’s bucket list.
Rob+Ann @TravelLatte(.net) says
What a great post, Ruth. Although, we feel like we could spend three or four days just on Schonbrunn! The size and opulence is just mind boggling. Like you, we love a good market, too, and Naschmarkt looks like a must! We just need to make it a priority to get there! We’ve pinned this for when we do. Thanks for linking up again with #TheWeeklyPostcard and #WeekendWanderlust!
Ruth says
Rob, thanks a lot! There is a lot to take in. It is like every building in the city is a palace. Like you said, it is mind boggling.
Aaron Kyle says
Stunning sights!!!!!
Ruth says
Thanks!
Lisa says
The Riding School looks amazing and Hundertwasserhaus! Just wow!
Ruth says
Lisa, I know! There are a lot of special places int he city.
Clare (Suitcases and Sandcastles) says
Well you’ve totally convinced me to visit the Wachau Valley! I loved Vienna but it’s been over 15 years since I visited so I reckon it’s time to go back… Thanks for sharing on #FarawayFiles
Ruth says
The Wachau Valley is wonderful. I went to the Upper Rhine Valley in Germany and think the Wachau is way prettier.
Tomas says
great post… I have been in Vienna many times but never heard about Wacchau Valley. Pin it to my bucket list 😉
Ruth says
Really? It is so close! Pay it a visit if you stop by the city again. You will notice right away why it is so special.
Nancy @ NY Foodie Family says
Wow! Such beautiful buildings! And yes, I’d want to see the horses practicing and visit the Naschmarkt. What a great trip. Love this itinerary!
Ruth says
Thank you! Those horses are as refined as the emperor. The market is awesome too!
Anda says
I’ve only spent two days in Vienna and when I left I had the feeling I have only seen a small fraction of what this city has to offer. I’m hoping to return sometimes next spring and continue my visit. Thanks for letting me know about Wachau Valley. It seems I’ll need to spend a day visiting that too. I’m not sure I’d go to Bratislava though. Vienna has too many attractions for me.
Ruth says
I had two full days in the city too. I tried to make the most but I keep discovering places I missed (that is why Instagram is a pain sometimes). I am glad I went to the Wachau Valley and Bratislava. They were very different.
Trippin' Turpins (Kelly) says
Vienna looks fabulous. The building are gorgeous… but you really had me with the photos of the delicious fresh looking fruit at the market. Here on Langkawi (where we are atm) fresh fruit is so hard to get. The fruit looks tired and drab and it often dry and chalky….. Can you tell I am having fruit withdrawal symptoms? 🙂 Great post. I shall pin it for reference for the day I get to Vienna! Cheers
Ruth says
Really? You would think there would be plenty of fresh fruit on an island. Hope you find something delicious to eat. At least you know Vienna has some good fruit.
Michele {Malaysian Meanders} says
I would really, really, really like to return to Vienna. I think I only had one day there the other time we visited. I remember how amazed I was by the “backyard” of Schonbrunn palace. In fact, I think everything on Day 2 of your suggested itinerary sounds fantastic.
Ruth says
Thanks Michelle! Schonbrunn is something else. I can imagine members of royalty strolling through the garden. They had fantastic taste.
Orangewayfarer says
Beautiful write up. Loved the colorful House. The city is soaked in history in a nutshell and I wonder how much I need to read before paying a visit. Thanks much.
Ruth says
Oh you are funny! Hope you can visit soon!
Jim ~ ReflectionsEnroute says
What an excellent guide, Ruth! We haven’t been to the Wachau valley yet, but I’ve heard of it and now with your recommendation we’ll be sure and add it to a visit to Austria soon. #wkendtravelinspiration
Ruth says
Jim, you have to visit. In my opinion, it is prettier than the Upper Rhine Valley (I am sure you have visited).
eileen g says
Vienna is a city where i would like to have some time, to see all the touristy stuff and to also get beyond it and see the “local” side of the city, too. My daughter made a HundertWasserHaus out of a shoebox at school so we would have to find those, and try many desserts as well!
Ruth says
Oh that sounds so nice. I am glad kids are thought about Hundertwasser in school. It would be great for her to visit.
Shona says
That’s a crammed packed itinerary and one I’d love to follow one day. The architecture is so grand, even the quirky side. I’d probably add a food tour in as you suggest to round out th experience. Yes, I’ll have to plan a trip to Vienna very soon! 🙂
Ruth says
Shona, I know it looks jam packed but I think we had a lot of opportunities to sit down, eat cake, drink coffee and people watch. I mean, you have to recuperate to keep going.
Maria Ingrid | Wander with MI says
There’s so much beautiful sights to see.. I wish I could visit Vienna again.. We went there 2 years ago on a tour, and we just passed by the city.. That’s the reason why I love doing trips on my own now.. I will pin this very informative post for future reference..
Ruth says
I am with you. I feel like I absorb more when I travel on my own. We used a tour company for the Wachau Valley and it wasn’t good. The place was outstanding but the tour was lackluster.
Tracy says
I really need to revisit Vienna as it is a city that didn’t make a great impression on my first visit – nothing to do with the city itself but we were backpacking Europe and my daughter fell ill so Vienna was a blur of looking after her in a hotel room! She was well enough after a few days but we never did see Vienna! So a city to definitely return to! Looks beautiful!
Ruth says
Yeah, I do not think you can enjoy a city properly when you are sick. Same thing happened to me in Barcelona a few years ago. Hope you can revisit soon.
Erin Gustafson | Oregon Girl Around the World says
All I can remember of my brief stop in Vienna is the Schonbrunn Palace actually! Thank you for sharing all the other lovely things I need to see next time to Austria. (To be fair – that was over twenty years ago that I was there!) Your love of the city is evident – thanks for sharing your passion with #FarawayFiles, Erin
Ruth says
Thanks a lot Erin! Appreciate the comment. I gave Vienna my best shot and ended up enjoying.
Janine Good says
I love Vienna! I ate like a pig when I was there on Sacher Torte, Wursts filled with cheese and strudels. I also ate a huge amount of Mozart ball chocolates! It is one of my favourite European cities and you have made me want to go back. Hope to see you tomorrow on Fly Away Friday!
Kana says
The Spanish Riding School looks like such a fun place to visit! I’d love to go! Of course, not to forget all the gorgeous architecture! Thanks for joining Fly Away Friday, hope to see you again tomorrow! xo
Sandy N Vyjay says
Vienna looks really enchanting. Eastern Europe along with Vienna has been a plan that has been on our drawing boards for some time. Hope to get there sooner than later.
Henry Riley | Live The Venture says
Hi Ruth,
Great info! Vienna is such an interesting place and we plan to incorporate it into one of our tours. I loved the photos and it gave you a real sense of being there. The architecture can be a little funky, especially the Hundertwasserhaus but that’s all apart of the fun. Keep up the great posts!
-Henry
Eva says
Ah Vienna, my long-time favorite I used to visit regularly but haven’t been there for at least 20 years. That was quite a nostalgic trip. Thank you for the ride.
Kaylene Isherwood says
Ah I love Vienna. Your photos make me want to get back there asap! There’s so much to do and see there. And I just really love Austria as a whole. Traveling there for 10 days was one of my favorite solo trips I’ve ever done.