Vienna — the name itself conjures images of swirling ball gowns, elegant palaces, and the lilting strains of a waltz. More than just a city, Vienna is an experience — a living museum where history waltzes with modern vibrancy. From the grandeur of the Hofburg Palace to the genius of Mozart and Beethoven, the city’s past echoes from every cobblestone and concert hall. But Vienna isn’t just about looking back — it’s a city that embraces the present, boasting a thriving arts scene, world-class cuisine and a coffee culture that’s an art form in itself. Prepare to be enchanted as we explore the heart of Austria.
For history buffs
Stunning night shot of the Schönbrunn Palace — the characteristic yellow facade is reflected in the fountain located at the entrance of the residence
Vienna’s historic monuments are more than just buildings — they are storybooks etched in stone — each narrating a chapter of the city’s rich past.
The magnificent Schönbrunn Palace, a sprawling Baroque masterpiece, served as the summer residence of the Habsburg emperors. Its opulent interiors, meticulously manicured gardens and the iconic Gloriette offer a glimpse into the imperial lifestyle. Do visit the Imperial Apartments, the Hall of Mirrors, the natural history museum Schonbrunn Palace Park and the Grand Gallery. At times, concerts take place within the palace grounds. Check out for concert dates here.
Timings: 8.30 am - 5 pm
Magnificent night view of the Hofburg Imperial Palace
Located in the old part of Vienna, the Hofburg Palace, or the Imperial Palace, was the winter residence of the Habsburgs for over 600 years. More than just a palace, this sprawling complex is a city within a city. While parts of the Hofburg still function as government offices, much of it is open to the public, inviting visitors to step back in time. A must-see is the Imperial Treasury, a dazzling display of Habsburg treasures. You’ll marvel at the Austrian imperial crown, the exquisite agate bowl, and jewels from the Order of the Golden Fleece – each piece a symbol of centuries of power and prestige. For a more personal glimpse into imperial life, the Sisi Museum offers insights into the life and tragic death of the beloved Empress Elisabeth, affectionately known as Sisi. No visit to the Hofburg is complete without exploring the Imperial Apartments, where the royal family lived and worked for six centuries. An audio guide allows you to wander through these historic rooms at your own pace, imagining the lives of those who once called this magnificent palace home.
Timings: 9 am -5.30 pm
A journey through Vienna’s museums
An art lover enjoying the large paintings on the wall inside the Kunsthistorisches Museum (Art History Museum)
Vienna’s museums are more than just repositories of artifacts — they are portals to different eras, artistic movements and intellectual currents that have shaped the city’s identity.
For a deeper dive into Vienna’s history, the Vienna Museum offers a fascinating journey through the city’s evolution — from its Roman origins to the present day. Start your visit at the main building on Karlsplatz, where Vienna’s entire history unfolds before your eyes, from medieval relics to Austrian painter Gustav Klimt’s masterpieces. Travel back to Roman times at the Roman Museum, explore medieval Vienna’s hidden corners or step into the very apartments where Mozart and Beethoven created musical magic. Fancy a peek into imperial life? The Hermesvilla, Sisi's retreat, awaits. Each location offers a unique lens through which you can view Vienna’s breathtaking past.
Timings: Check out the timings on their website
A glimpse of Kunsthistorisches Museum
The Kunsthistorisches Museum (Art History Museum) in Vienna is a treasure trove for art lovers, with a vast collection spanning centuries and cultures. Prepare to be overwhelmed by masterpieces from ancient Egypt and classical antiquity, through the Renaissance and Baroque periods, all the way to more modern works. You'll also find masterpieces by Vermeer, Rembrandt, Rubens, Titian, and many more. Don't miss the impressive collection of Egyptian antiquities, the Greek and Roman artifacts and the stunning Kunstkammer (Chamber of Art and Curiosities).
Timings: 10 am - 6 pm
Get a peek into Austrian art at the Belvedere Museum. Split into Upper and Lower Belvedere, the museum is not just a stunning Baroque palace, but also houses an impressive collection of Austrian art — including Klimt’s masterpiece, ‘The Kiss’.
Timings: 9 am - 6 pm
For those interested in modern and contemporary art, the Museum of Modern Art (mumok) is one for the checklist. Its diverse collection spans the 20th and 21st centuries, featuring a wide range of artistic movements — from classical modernism to pop art, Fluxus and contemporary art. You'll also find works by artists like Picasso, Warhol, Klee, and many others showcasing the evolution of artistic expression over time.
Timings: 10 am - 6 pm
Learn about the rich and complex history of Vienna’s Jewish community, from the Middle Ages to the present day, at the Jewish Museum. It showcases cultural contributions, periods of prosperity, and the devastating impact of the Holocaust. A key attraction is the preserved medieval synagogue.
Timings: Check out timings on their website
Interior of Vienna State Opera House
Besides the museums, art lovers can visit the Street Art Passage, where all the famous art galleries are located, and watch an opera performance at the Vienna State Opera. This historic opera house was established in 1869.
Exploring Vienna’s gastronomy
An Austrian sweet dessert, portion of apple strudel with whipped cream and hot vanilla sauce served at an old bakery cafe in Vienna
Vienna isn’t just a feast for the eyes — it’s a treat for the taste buds too! Hearty, soul-warming dishes to decadent desserts available are sure to leave you craving more.
Let's start with the classics - the Wiener Schnitzel, a perfectly breaded and pan-fried veal cutlet. Sample the Tafelspitz, boiled beef served with root vegetables, and a creamy apple-horseradish sauce. Don’t forget to try some Spätzle, soft egg noodles often served with cheese or goulash — a hearty stew that’s perfect for a chilly day. For a truly authentic experience, head to Figlmüller Wollzeile or Plachutta Wollzeile, renowned for their traditional Viennese cuisine.
Satiate those sweet cravings with Sachertorte, a rich chocolate cake with a thin layer of apricot jam or an Apfelstrudel — a flaky pastry filled with sweet apples, raisins and cinnamon. Though Demel and Café Sacher are iconic spots to savour these treats, don’t overlook the smaller, local cafes that often have their delicious variations.
Vienna is known not only for Wiener Schnitzel, but also for Viennese coffee
Viennese coffee culture is legendary — more than just a caffeine fix, it’s a cherished ritual. From the classic Wiener Melange (similar to a cappuccino) to the yummy Einspänner (a double espresso topped with whipped cream), there's a coffee for every mood. Traditional coffee houses like Café Central, Café Hawelka, and Café Sperl are institutions in themselves, offering a glimpse into Vienna's literary and artistic past. These cafes are not just places to drink coffee— they are places to linger, read, and soak in the atmosphere. But many of the roadside cafes also offer great coffee.