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About this guide
Vienna, Austria takes history and modernity to blend together an unforgettable experience for every visitor. Known as the "City of Music," Vienna is a dream destination for classical music fans. There are grand opera houses, classical concerts, and musical heritage tied to legends like Mozart and Beethoven. Beyond its musical roots, Vienna has some of Central Europe’s most dazzling architecture, from Hofburg Palace to St. Stephen’s Cathedral. It can take a whole day to stroll through the artisan and luxury markets, indulge in world-famous pastries like Sachertorte, and explore the city’s artistic soul in its many museums. With a cozy charm and warm hospitality, Vienna is an amazing destination for all travelers—from solo and group to business and family travelers.
- Best time to travel: June to August (peak season), November to March (off-season), April to May and September to October (shoulder season)
- Time zone: Central European Time (CET)
- Currency: Euro (EUR, €)
- Language(s): German, English, Turkish
- Noteworthy: Vienna Opera Ball (February), Donauinselfest (June), Viennale International Film Festival (October), Christmas Markets (November - December)
- Best for: Central European History Buffs, Classic and Contemporary Music Concerts, Royal Art and Specialty Cuisine, Romantic Getaways
Get Away: Getting To And Around Vienna, Austria
By Air
The best way to get to Vienna, Austria, is to fly into Vienna International Airport, located about 10 miles southeast of the city center. The airport is well-connected with direct flights from major cities worldwide. From the airport, travelers can easily reach the city center via the City Airport Train (CAT), regional trains, buses, or taxis, all offering convenient and efficient options.
By Car
Getting around Vienna by car is convenient for exploring areas outside the city. However, it’s less ideal within the central districts due to limited parking and traffic restrictions. When driving, parking garages are widely available, and short-term parking zones require prepaid tickets. For easier navigation, consider using GPS or a navigation app, and check if your accommodation offers parking options.
By Public Transit
Vienna is easily accessible by public transit, with extensive rail connections from major European cities via international trains like the ÖBB Railjet, EuroCity, and Nightjet. The Vienna Hauptbahnhof (Central Station) serves as the main hub with seamless connections to the city’s efficient public transport network. Buses from neighboring countries also provide a budget-friendly option, with routes arriving at stations like Vienna Erdberg.
Explore Vienna, Austria On Foot
Vienna’s historic charm shows at every turn with many of its iconic attractions within walking distance of each other. Beautiful pedestrian-friendly sidewalks lead visitors through elegant streets like the Innere Stadt to see St. Stephen’s Cathedral and the Hofburg Palace. There are also plenty of busy town squares and hidden courtyards to walk. With well-maintained pedestrian zones and plenty of cafes along the way, Vienna is perfect for leisurely walks and immersive sightseeing.
Quick facts
Central European Time (CET)
Euro (EUR, €)
German, English, Turkish
Good For
Central European History Buffs
Classic and Contemporary Music Concerts
Royal Art and Specialty Cuisine
Romantic Getaways
Keep in mind
- Vienna Opera Ball (February)
- Donauinselfest (June)
- Viennale International Film Festival (October)
- Christmas Markets (November - December)
Gourmet
Gourmet: Places To Eat In Vienna, Austria
Dine at EF16 for a culinary experience highlighting regional and seasonal ingredients from local Viennese farmers. Chef Christoph Lamprecht creates exquisite dishes like steak tartare, prawn and artichoke risotto, and duck breast, all freshly prepared daily.
Reserve a breathtaking window seat of Vienna's skyline at Michelin Guide-awarded Das Loft and enjoy classic Viennese breakfast and dinner. The panoramic space also showcases DJ Ayman Awad’s weekend house mixes and an iconic shimmering ceiling.
Konoba offers authentic Croatian seafood, showcasing traditional Dalmatian cooking techniques and beautifully reimagined dishes. The menu includes fresh fish, prosciutto, and local Croatian wines in a warm atmosphere that captures the essence of Vienna.
Visit Hemma Scandinavian Feeling bar and restaurant, offering specialty dishes and cocktails inspired by the Nordic countries. The delicious menu complements the cozy atmosphere filled with good music and authentic Scandinavian flair.
Demel Café is a Vienna institution offering a wide selection of baked goods, cakes, and specialty coffee, perfect for any time of day. Enjoy fresh pastries for breakfast or savor spicy dishes at this quaint café for delicious treats from morning to evening.
For a taste of traditional Italian gelato and specialty cakes, Zanoni and Zanoni invites guests to enjoy a variety of breakfast options, sandwiches, and refreshing drinks. Serving Vienna since 1971, this beloved spot brings a touch of happiness with every scoop and sip of hot and iced coffee or frozen yogurt.
Play
Play: Things To Do In Vienna, Austria
Discover authentic flavors and unique dishes on the Tastes of Vienna Food Tour through local markets and traditional food shops. A knowledgeable local guide takes guests away from the usual tourist spots to indulge in a classic Viennese breakfast, sweet or savory delights, and specialty drinks.
Book the Viennese Wine Tasting in a Roman wine cellar to learn about the city’s rich winemaking history with a wine expert. Guests visit ancient Roman roots beneath the city while enjoying three exquisite wines paired with local delicacies in Vienna’s deepest wine cellar.
Experience Vienna’s darker side on the Spooky Vienna Ghost Tour where guests explore haunted alleys, the imperial palace at night, and eerie landmarks like St. Stephen’s Cathedral and Blood Alley. Perfect for all ages, this fun and spine-chilling tour dives into the city’s ghostly legends, including tales of the Blood Countess and the original Vampire Hunter!
The Guided Kayaking Tour of Vienna goes through the scenic Alte Donau, past huts and nocturnal beavers near Gänsehäufel island. This small group tour lets visitors swim in the clear waters on a refreshing break in Vienna’s hidden lakeside village.
The Vienna Classical Concert at St. Peter’s Church shares the timeless works of Mozart, Bach, Beethoven, Schubert, and Vivaldi. The church’s stunning acoustics and historic atmosphere make it the perfect evening to enjoy world-renowned classical music.
The Hallstatt Day Trip from Vienna With Admont Abbey or Skywalk takes visitors on a scenic journey through the Salzkammergut region, to the picturesque Hallstatt, Seeschloss Ort castle, and the Hallstatt Skywalk. Depending on the time of year, guests could visit the historic Admont Abbey, one of Austria’s oldest monasteries, instead of the Skywalk.
Uncover the city’s secretive history, from Cold War espionage to imperial scandals, that shaped Vienna’s role in international intelligence on the two-hour I Spy Vienna Guided Espionage Tour. Guests explore ties between Vienna’s coffee house tradition and spies, walk through Vienna's imperial heritage, and unravel the stories of informants, bold espionage plans, and personal tragedies.
Book a day at Aisawan Boutique Spa for a luxurious escape in the heart of Vienna, just steps from St. Stephen's Cathedral. Relax with personalized treatments in an Asian-inspired spa, where expert therapists provide everything from massages to hammam sessions, for the ultimate reset.Book a day at Aisawan Boutique Spa for a luxurious escape in the heart of Vienna, just steps from St. Stephen's Cathedral. Relax with personalized treatments in an Asian-inspired spa, where expert therapists provide everything from massages to hammam sessions, for the ultimate reset.
