Vienna is the capital of Austria and a city where imperial history and vibrant modern life intertwine. It’s the home of schnitzel, Mozart, opulent palaces, and rich coffeehouse culture.
Travelers of all kinds – solo backpackers, families with kids, couples on a getaway, or luxury seekers – will find plenty to love.
The city is welcoming, very safe, and easy to get around, making it suitable for young and old alike.
There’s so much to do in Vienna that even a week might not feel enough, but whether you have a weekend or an extended stay, this guide will help you experience the best of Vienna without fluff or fuss!
Must-See Attractions
Vienna’s attractions span grand imperial monuments and cultural landmarks.
Here are the top sights you shouldn’t miss:
Schönbrunn Palace & Gardens
The 1,441-room summer palace of the Habsburgs and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Tour the lavish staterooms to glimpse royal life in the 1700s, then wander the sprawling gardens.
Don’t miss the Gloriette viewpoint on the hill or the Schönbrunn Zoo (the world’s oldest zoo) if you’re traveling with kids.
Plan at least half a day here – you could easily spend hours exploring the palace, maze, and gardens.
Hofburg Imperial Palace
A vast palace complex in the city center that was the power base of the Habsburg dynasty for over 700 years. Today it houses multiple museums and attractions: the Imperial Apartments and Sisi Museum (dedicated to Empress Elisabeth) let you tour the lavish living quarters.
You can also see the Spanish Riding School’s Lipizzaner horses and, on Sundays, hear the Vienna Boys’ Choir sing at the palace chapel.
The Hofburg’s history and scale are astounding – it even remains the official residence of Austria’s president.
St. Stephen’s Cathedral (Stephansdom)
The Gothic centerpiece of Vienna’s Old Town with its patterned tile roof and tall south tower. This 12th-century cathedral is Vienna’s most iconic church.
Step inside to admire its ornate interior, then climb 343 steps up the South Tower or take the elevator up the North Tower for panoramic city views.
Entry to the main cathedral is free, but tower climbs and guided tours cost a few euros.
Belvedere Palace
A Baroque palace complex with two beautiful palaces (Upper and Lower Belvedere) and immaculate gardens between them.
The Belvedere isn’t just pretty to look at – it’s also an art museum holding masterpieces by Klimt, Monet, and Van Gogh.
In fact, Gustav Klimt’s famous “The Kiss” is on display here. Stroll the free gardens with their fountains and flowerbeds, and enjoy a grand view back toward the city.
Art lovers should budget time (and ~€16) to tour the Upper Belvedere’s galleries.
Prater & the Giant Ferris Wheel
An old-fashioned amusement park and large public park where Vienna’s famous Riesenrad (giant Ferris wheel) has spun since 1897.
Riding the Ferris wheel is a classic Vienna experience that offers a unique view of the city skyline. The Prater park is free to enter – you pay per ride if you want carnival thrills.
Beyond the wheel, you can stroll under shady trees along the Hauptallee (main avenue) and see locals jogging or biking. It’s a fun stop, especially for families or if you want a break from museums.
MuseumsQuartier & Art Museums
Vienna is a city of museums, and the MuseumsQuartier (MQ) is a one-stop hub for several of them. In this former imperial stables complex, you’ll find the Leopold Museum (famous for Klimt and Schiele paintings), MUMOK modern art museum, and more.
The MQ’s courtyards often host events, and it’s a trendy hangout spot too.
Also nearby are the Kunsthistorisches Museum (Art History Museum) and Naturhistorisches Museum (Natural History), two grand institutions facing each other – perfect for history, art, and science enthusiasts. Most major museum tickets range from about €10–€16, so plan your budget accordingly.
These attractions are mostly located in or near the historic Innere Stadt (city center), and many are within walking distance of each other.
If you only have a short visit, prioritize a palace (Schönbrunn or Hofburg), the cathedral, and perhaps one museum to get a well-rounded taste of Vienna’s heritage.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
Beyond the famous sights, Vienna has plenty of lesser-known corners that reward explorers with extra charm and insight into local life:
Naschmarkt
Vienna’s largest open-air market, operating for centuries. It’s a lively stretch of stalls selling fresh produce, cheeses, spices, and international food, plus casual restaurants and bars. Mingle with locals while nibbling on falafel or Wiener schnitzel sandwiches.
On Saturdays, a sprawling flea market pops up next door – great for treasure hunting. It can be busy and a bit touristy, but it’s still a sensory feast and a fun spot for lunch.
Grinzing Wine Taverns (Heuriger)
You might be surprised to learn Vienna has extensive vineyards within the city. In the village-like Grinzing area on the outskirts, local wineries serve their new wines in taverns called Heuriger.
Take a tram out to enjoy an evening of local white wine (try Grüner Veltliner) in a cozy garden with live folk music.
With around 1,700 acres of vineyards in Vienna’s hills, the wine culture here is very lively. Visiting a heuriger lets you experience Gemütlichkeit – that special Austrian warmth and coziness – away from the crowds.
Third Man Museum
A small private museum devoted to the classic 1949 film “The Third Man,” which was set in Vienna. This is a true hidden gem for movie buffs. Tucked in a residential neighborhood, the museum contains an impressive collection of memorabilia from the film and exhibits about Vienna’s post-WWII history.
Even if you haven’t seen the movie, the passion behind this museum is infectious, and you’ll learn about an intriguing slice of Viennese cultural history. It’s often ranked highly by those who seek it out, and the owner might even give you a personal tour.
Jesuit Church (Universitätskirche)
From the outside, this church is unassuming, but step inside and you’ll be wowed by one of Vienna’s most stunning Baroque interiors.
Gilded columns spiral toward a painted sky on the ceiling – it’s an almost over-the-top display of 17th-century craftsmanship.
Despite being in the city center, the Jesuit Church sees relatively few tourists, so you can enjoy a peaceful visit. It’s a lovely spot to duck into for a few minutes of quiet art appreciation when you’re exploring the old town.
St. Marx Cemetery
A little further afield in the Landstraße district, this old Biedermeier-era cemetery is the (symbolic) resting place of Mozart. The exact grave of the great composer is lost, but a memorial tombstone marks where he was laid to rest in a pauper’s grave in 1791.
The cemetery itself closed in 1874, so it’s a historic park now. Visit in spring when lilac bushes are in bloom, and you’ll find it hauntingly beautiful and tranquil.
It’s a poignant hidden gem for music lovers and those interested in Vienna’s history beyond the imperial splendor.
Cultural Tips and Etiquette
To fit in and show respect in Vienna, keep these cultural pointers in mind:
Greetings and Formality
Viennese people tend to be polite and somewhat formal. A friendly “Grüß Gott” (a formal hello meaning “God bless”) or just “Guten Tag” when entering shops or restaurants is appreciated. When meeting someone, a quick handshake and eye contact are common.
Titles are taken seriously in Austria – you’ll hear people addressed as Herr Doktor or Frau Magister in formal situations – but as a visitor, you won’t need to use those unless you’re in a very formal setting.
Mind Your Volume
Try not to be too loud, especially on public transportation or in restaurants. Locals generally speak in moderate tones in public and value not disturbing others.
It’s also considered rude to blare music or get overly rowdy on the streets at night (unless you’re at a festival or a bar area).
Basically, being calm and courteous will go a long way.
Punctuality
Austrians are very punctual, so if you have a tour, show, or even a meet-up with a local friend, arrive on time or a few minutes early.
The Viennese run on schedule – public transport is usually prompt, and events start sharp.
If you have opera or concert tickets, note that doors typically close when the performance starts, and latecomers might not be admitted until intermission.
Tipping
Tipping in Vienna is customary but modest. Rounding up the bill or adding about 5–10% for good service is the norm.
For example, if your café bill is €9.50, you could hand a €10 note and say “Danke” (thank you) to let them keep the change, or round to €10.50.
In restaurants, leaving 5-10% extra in cash for the server is standard for decent service.
There’s no need to tip excessively; even 10% is considered generous. Tip hotel staff or guides a few euros for helpful service if you like, but again, it’s not over-the-top.
Public Transit Etiquette
When using escalators in the U-Bahn stations, stand on the right side and let people pass on the left. On trains or trams, it’s polite to offer your seat to elderly, pregnant, or disabled passengers.
Also, remember to validate your ticket (stamp it in the blue machines) before riding – it’s an honor system, but inspectors do random checks, and fines are hefty for cheaters.
Lastly, no eating on the subway – it’s not strictly illegal, but generally frowned upon to have messy food on public transport.
Sunday and Holiday Closures
Many shops (except those in tourist hubs or stations) are closed on Sundays and public holidays. Don’t be caught off guard if grocery stores or pharmacies are shuttered on a Sunday.
Plan your shopping ahead of time and enjoy the slower pace on those days – even many Viennese use Sunday for relaxed family time or a quiet walk in the park.
Similarly, some smaller restaurants or businesses might close for a Sommerpause (summer break) in July/August when owners take vacation, though you’ll still find plenty of alternatives open in the city.
Food and Drink: Tasting Vienna
A huge part of experiencing Vienna is indulging in its culinary traditions.
The food is hearty, and the desserts are legendary. Here are some must-try eats and tips for dining:
Wiener Schnitzel
The national dish of Austria and a Viennese classic. It’s a thin breaded veal cutlet (often pork in cheaper places) fried to golden perfection and traditionally served with a lemon wedge and potato salad. Nearly every local restaurant serves one.
The portion is usually big, perfect to satisfy a traveler’s appetite after walking around imperial sites. For an authentic experience, try a family-run Gasthaus outside the tourist center where you might find locals enjoying their schnitzel dinner.
Sachertorte & Apple Strudel
Vienna’s desserts are world-famous. Sachertorte is a dense chocolate cake layered with apricot jam and coated in dark chocolate icing, invented at Hotel Sacher.
Enjoy a slice with unsweetened whipped cream on the side – it’s a delight for chocolate lovers.
Apfelstrudel (apple strudel) is a flaky pastry filled with spiced apples and raisins, often served warm with vanilla sauce or ice cream. Many coffeehouses serve excellent strudel.
For a lighter treat, try Kaiserschmarrn, a fluffy shredded pancake caramelized with sugar and served with plum compote – it’s said to be Emperor Franz Joseph’s favorite dessert.
Coffee House Culture
Vienna’s coffee houses are more than just places to grab a caffeine fix – they are an institution and an experience. These elegant cafes invite you to slow down.
Order a Wiener Melange (similar to a cappuccino) or an Einspänner (espresso topped with whipped cream) and savor it at leisure. It’s normal to linger with your coffee and a newspaper for an hour or more; the waiter won’t rush you.
Famous historic cafes like Café Central and Café Sperl have gorgeous interiors and a timeless atmosphere, but you can also pop into any neighborhood coffeehouse for an authentic vibe.
Just remember, coffee in Vienna isn’t typically taken to go – it’s meant to be enjoyed on the premises, often with a sweet treat on the side.
Street Food and Markets
For quick, budget-friendly bites, Vienna’s street food is delicious.
Hit a Würstelstand (sausage stand) and try a Käsekrainer, a grilled sausage oozing with cheese, typically served with a piece of bread and mustard – perfect after a night out or while strolling between sights.
At the Naschmarkt or local markets like Karmelitermarkt, you can sample everything from Turkish kebabs to Austrian dumplings.
Market prices are reasonable – for a few euros, you can assemble a picnic of fresh bread, cheese, and fruit. In December, don’t miss the Christmas market stalls selling glühwein (hot mulled wine) and maroni (roasted chestnuts) for a cozy treat.
Local Wine and Beer
Vienna is the only world capital with significant vineyards within its city limits, so be sure to try the local wines.
The white Grüner Veltliner and Riesling from Vienna’s own vineyards are crisp and excellent. You can order local wine at most restaurants or, better yet, spend an evening at a heuriger (wine tavern) as mentioned, to drink where the wine is made.
Beer lovers won’t be disappointed either – Austrian beer is high quality, with Märzen (lager) being the standard brew. Look for big brands like Ottakringer (Vienna’s local brewery) or Gösser, or try craft beer pubs for something different. Prost!
Dining Tips
Austrians typically eat lunch around 12-1 pm and dinner around 7 pm. Many restaurants offer affordable Mittagsmenü (weekday lunch specials) that include a couple of courses for a fixed price – a great way to dine well on a budget.
At sit-down restaurants, flagging down the waiter (“Herr Ober!” or eye contact and a polite nod) is normal when you’re ready to order or pay – they won’t usually bring the bill until you ask for it.
Credit cards are accepted in many places, but some smaller taverns or markets might be cash-only (look for “Nur Barzahlung” signs).
Tipping is modest as noted, usually by telling the server the total you’d like to pay when you hand over cash (for example, the bill is €18.40, you can say “Zwanzig” and give a €20).
And finally, tap water in Vienna is excellent – it comes from alpine springs, so feel free to ask for water (Leitungswasser, often given free) and refill your bottle, saving money and plastic.
Best Times to Visit Vienna
Vienna can be enjoyed year-round, but different seasons offer different experiences.
Here’s a breakdown to help you decide when to go:
Summer (June to August)
Warm weather and long days make summer popular for tourists. Outdoor cafes and parks are lively, and there are many festivals and open-air concerts.
Expect temperatures around 25°C (77°F) in the daytime. However, this is peak season – attractions will be crowded and accommodation prices highest.
Ironically, some Viennese leave the city on summer holidays (Sommerpause) in July/August, so a few local shops and eateries might close up.
Still, you’ll hardly notice as a visitor since the tourist infrastructure is in full swing. If you don’t mind the crowds, summer is delightful for enjoying Vienna’s pavement cafés and possibly taking a dip in the Danube at nearby beaches.
Autumn (September to October)
Early fall is one of the best times to visit. The weather is still mild (teens to low 20s °C), the summer crowds thin out, and the city’s parks turn golden with fall foliage.
September and October offer a sweet spot of fewer tourists but plenty of cultural events – the opera and theater seasons start up again after the summer break.
Vienna’s wine harvest also happens in fall; you might catch a wine festival or Sturm (young wine) tasting. Pack a light jacket for crisp mornings and evenings.
Overall, autumn is comfortable, scenic, and a bit calmer, making it ideal for sightseeing at a relaxed pace.
Winter (November to March)
Winters are cold and can be snowy. Temperatures often hover around 0°C, and can dip below freezing (down to -5 to -10°C at times, and rarely as low as -15°C (5°F) on very cold days).
That said, Vienna in late November and December is magical. The Christmas markets light up the city squares with twinkling lights, mulled wine, and holiday music.
From the large Christkindlmarkt at Rathausplatz to smaller neighborhood markets, it’s a festive wonderland. This period is a highlight of winter visits.
In January and February, tourism is quieter; it’s the season for grand balls (if you ever wanted to waltz in a palace, this is your chance!) and enjoying the cozy interiors of museums and cafes.
Just dress warmly – you’ll be doing a lot of indoor sightseeing, but the city covered in snow is beautiful.
Note that around the holidays (Christmas/New Year’s), some attractions have special hours, and New Year’s Eve in Vienna is celebrated with a famous waltz at midnight in the streets.
Spring (April to early June)
Along with autumn, spring is often cited as the best time to visit. The city shakes off winter by April – parks bloom with tulips and magnolias, and outdoor café seating returns.
April can be cool and a bit rainy, but May and June are usually gorgeous, with temperatures rising into the pleasant 15–25°C range.
Tourist numbers start to increase by late May, but it’s still less crowded than peak summer. Spring also brings some fun events like Easter markets (if you come around March/April during Easter, Schönbrunn and the Old City host lovely seasonal markets).
It’s a great time for day trips into the Wachau Valley when vineyards and apricot trees blossom. Pack layers (you might need a light sweater or umbrella occasionally), but you can generally count on comfortable weather.
Getting Around Vienna (Transportation)
Navigating Vienna is a breeze thanks to its excellent public transportation and pedestrian-friendly layout.
Here’s what you need to know to get around efficiently:
Public Transport
Vienna’s public transport network is one of the best in the world – it’s safe, clean, and very efficient. You have U-Bahn (subway) lines, extensive tram routes (streetcars that are a joy to ride while sightseeing), city buses, and the S-Bahn (commuter trains).
The system operates on a proof-of-payment honor system – there are no turnstiles. Buy a ticket from a station machine or tobacco shop (Trafik) and validate it (stamp the ticket in the blue machine) for it to be valid.
Once you have a validated ticket or a pass, you can hop on any mode of transport. A single ride within the central zone costs about €2.40 (if bought as a single ticket).
If you’ll be exploring a lot, get a pass: a 24-hour pass is around €8, 48 hours about €14, and 72 hours ~€17 – a great value. There’s also a weekly pass for ~€17 (valid Monday through Monday), which is a steal if you happen to be in town that long.
Remember to keep your ticket on you in case an inspector asks – fines for riding without a valid ticket are hefty.
Walking
The historic center (Innere Stadt) is very walkable – many major sights like St. Stephen’s, Hofburg, and the State Opera are within a compact area.
In nice weather, you can stroll the Ringstrasse boulevard that encircles the old city, passing by monuments and parks along the way.
Vienna is generally flat, and signage is good, so walking is a pleasant way to discover hidden alleys, fountains, and coffee shops.
Bring comfy shoes; the cobblestones in some areas can tire your feet. Also, note that many of the shopping streets in the center (like Kärntner Straße and Graben) are pedestrian-only.
Bicycles
Vienna has bike lanes and a public bike-share system (look for Citybike stations). If you enjoy cycling, consider renting a bike – it’s a fun way to explore the parks or the Danube island.
Daily rentals from shops or apps are usually under €10. The city is expanding bike infrastructure, and drivers are used to cyclists.
Just follow local rules (use lights at night, don’t bike in pedestrian zones during busy hours) and you’ll be fine.
Taxis and Rideshares
Taxis are widely available but relatively expensive. The meter starts around €4 and adds ~€1.70 per kilometer, so a short ride within the center might be €8-15, while a trip across town could be €20+.
Uber and similar ride-hailing services operate in Vienna and are usually a bit cheaper than traditional taxis.
For late nights or if you’re carrying heavy luggage, they’re a convenient option. However, given how good public transport is, you might rarely need a taxi unless it’s very late (the U-Bahn does run all night on weekends, and there are night buses on weekdays).
From the Airport
Vienna International Airport (VIE) is about 20 km southeast of the city. You have a few options to reach the center:
- The City Airport Train (CAT) – Non-stop in 16 minutes to Wien Mitte station. It’s comfortable and fast, departing every 30 minutes. A single ticket is about €11-12 (round-trip ~€21).
- S-Bahn Commuter Train – A regular regional train (S7 line) that also goes to Wien Mitte, taking about 25 minutes but only costs around €4.30. It’s a bit slower and has stops, but it’s cheap and reliable.
- Airport Bus – Buses (Postbus or Vienna Airport Lines) run to various hubs like Westbahnhof or Schwedenplatz, taking ~20–45 minutes depending on route, costing around €8 one-way.
- Taxi/Uber – A taxi from the airport into the city has a fixed rate of around €36-40 to central Vienna. Ride-shares might be a bit less. It’s obviously the priciest option, but can be convenient if you have lots of bags.
City Cards
If you plan on hitting many museums and using transport often, consider the Vienna City Card or Vienna Pass. The Vienna City Card offers unlimited transport for a set number of days, plus discounts at attractions.
The Vienna Pass is more expensive but includes free entry to many attractions (and often comes with a hop-on-hop-off bus). Do the math on these – they can save money if you’re very active, but if you’re on a tighter budget, buying transport passes and seeking out individual discounts might be cheaper.
In short, you won’t need a car in Vienna (in fact, driving and parking in the center is a hassle). Public transportation and your own two feet will cover everything.
Stations are frequent, and maps/apps (the WienMobil app or Google Maps) make route planning simple.
Safety Tips and Practical Advice
Vienna is consistently ranked as one of the world’s safest and most livable cities, so travelers generally have very few safety concerns.
Still, here are some practical tips to ensure a smooth trip:
Low Crime, Not No Crime
Violent crime is extremely rare in tourist areas. You can walk around most of the city day or night without feeling in danger. However, as in any major city, pickpocketing can occur in crowded spots or on busy public transport.
Keep an eye on your belongings in places like Stephansplatz (city center), on packed trams, or at popular markets.
A money belt isn’t really necessary, just stay aware – for instance, don’t hang a purse on the back of your chair in a cafe and then get lost in conversation.
Tourist Scams
There are a few minor scams to note. One involves people pretending to be plainclothes police – they’ll approach tourists, flash a badge, and ask to see your passport or wallet, claiming they need to check for counterfeit money or whatever.
This is not the normal procedure. Real Austrian officers won’t randomly demand to search your money on the street. If someone like this approaches, firmly ask for a uniformed officer or just walk away – it’s likely a scam to grab your cash or passport.
Another thing to be cautious about is buying concert tickets from pushy street sellers (for Mozart concerts and such around the cathedral) – while many are legit, some overcharge for mediocre events.
It’s safer to book performances directly from the venue or a reputable vendor. In general, Vienna doesn’t have aggressive scams like some other cities, but staying alert never hurts.
Emergency Numbers
The pan-European emergency number is 112 (works for police, fire, ambulance). Austria also has direct numbers: 133 for police, 144 for ambulance, 122 for fire.
You likely won’t need these, but it’s comforting to know. English proficiency among police and medical staff is pretty good in Vienna. If an emergency happens, don’t hesitate to call – response times are usually fast.
Traffic and Pedestrian Rules
Viennese drivers are generally respectful, and jaywalking is less common here than in some places. Cross at the zebra crossings when the light is green for pedestrians.
Cars will stop for you at crosswalks without lights, but try to make eye contact with the driver before crossing.
On sidewalks, you might see marked bike lanes – avoid walking in those to prevent collisions with cyclists. If you rent a bike, obey traffic lights and stick to bike lanes or the streets (not pedestrian sidewalks).
Health and Wellness
Vienna’s tap water is safe (and delicious!), so stay hydrated by refilling your bottle from the tap or public fountains. Pharmacies (Apotheke) are easy to find if you need medicine – look for a green neon cross sign.
Many pharmacies close at night, but there’s always a rotating list of night pharmacies (posted on every pharmacy door). For any medical issue, Vienna has high-quality healthcare.
Hopefully, you won’t need it, but even as a visitor, emergency rooms at general hospitals (like AKH) will treat urgent issues, though wait times can be long for non-critical cases.
It’s wise to have travel insurance to cover any health expenses.
COVID-19 Considerations
As of 2025, life in Vienna is back to normal with regard to COVID-19, but some remnants remain. It’s a good idea to carry a mask in case you need it (during flu season, you might see locals wearing masks on public transit or in pharmacies).
Check the latest local guidelines, but currently, there are no special restrictions for tourists. Hand sanitizer is available at many shops and museums.
Austria has a high vaccination rate and good healthcare, so just follow standard health precautions.
LGBTQ and Solo Female Travel
Vienna is an open and progressive city socially. LGBTQ travelers will find a welcoming atmosphere; there’s a lively gay scene, and the annual Rainbow Parade (Pride) is a big event. Same-sex couples can feel comfortable traveling here.
For women travelers, Vienna is very safe – many locals of all genders walk or take transit alone even late at night. Catcalling or harassment is not common.
Of course, use normal common sense (if a bar situation feels off, leave; keep your drink in sight, etc.), but overall, Vienna is a low-risk environment.
Costs and Cash
In daily life, carry some cash (Euros). While cards are accepted at most restaurants and shops, smaller bakeries, market stalls, or older establishments might prefer cash.
ATMs are everywhere (avoid Euronet ATMs due to high fees; use bank ATMs like Erste, Bank Austria, etc.). The city is reasonably affordable compared to other Western European capitals – you won’t face aggressive haggling or anything since prices are fixed.
Just be aware that taxis and some attractions can add up, so budget accordingly (see the next section for more on costs).
By and large, if you exercise the same caution you would at home, you’ll likely have zero issues in Vienna. Austrians are generally honest and helpful.
If you need help, don’t hesitate to politely ask someone – many Viennese speak English and will gladly assist with directions or advice.
Day Trips from Vienna
One of Vienna’s advantages is its location in the heart of Europe – you can take short trips to see more of Austria or even other countries.
Bratislava, Slovakia
Vienna’s closest capital neighbor is just about 1 hour away by train from Wien Hauptbahnhof. Bratislava’s charming old town is compact and perfect for a day of exploring cobbled streets.
Climb up to the hilltop Bratislava Castle for views over the Danube and the city’s red rooftops. Wander the pedestrian streets around the Main Square (don’t miss the quirky bronze statues like the “Man at Work” peeking out of a manhole) and sample Slovak dishes, which are similar to Austrian, with hearty stews and dumplings.
A round-trip train ticket is inexpensive (around €16-18), making this an easy and affordable jaunt. Alternatively, in summer, you can even take a high-speed catamaran boat down the Danube to Bratislava in about 75 minutes for a fun change of pace.
Because of the short travel time, you can spend a full day in Bratislava and be back in Vienna by evening.
Wachau Valley (Melk & Dürnstein)
The Wachau is a scenic Danube River valley famous for vineyards, picturesque villages, and historic landmarks. It’s an easy day trip west of Vienna – about an hour by train or car to the town of Melk. In Melk, tour the stunning Melk Abbey, a Baroque masterpiece on a hill overlooking the river.
The Abbey’s library and church are incredibly ornate. After Melk, you can take a Danube boat cruise downstream (in warmer months) or a short train/bus ride to Dürnstein, another lovely village where you can hike up to the ruined castle walls.
This is where King Richard the Lionheart was famously held captive! The views of the valley from up there are worth the climb. In between, enjoy local Wachau wines; this region is known for excellent white wine, and many wineries offer tastings.
If you’re feeling active, consider renting a bike and riding part of the flat bike path along the Danube – it’s one of the most beautiful cycling routes in Europe. Expect to spend around €18–€25 for train tickets in total for a Vienna–Melk–Vienna loop (more if you add a boat cruise).
It’s a flexible trip: you can do it independently via train + ferry, or join a guided tour for convenience.
Salzburg
Mozart’s birthplace and the “Sound of Music” city are across the country, but thanks to Austria’s rail network, it’s reachable in about 2.5 hours by train (direct Railjet trains from Vienna run frequently).
That makes for a long day trip, but if you start early, you can get a taste of Salzburg’s highlights. Visit the Hohensalzburg Fortress on the hill – one of Europe’s largest medieval castles – for panoramic views.
Stroll through the Mirabell Gardens (fans of The Sound of Music will recognize them). Walk Getreidegasse in the Old Town to see Mozart’s Birth House and enjoy the baroque architecture and alpine backdrop. Salzburg is smaller and more relaxed than Vienna, with an almost storybook charm.
Try a knödel (dumpling) or Salzburger Nockerl (a local dessert soufflé) before you head back. An advance-purchase train fare can be as low as €25 one-way, but around €50+ is more typical for a short-notice round trip.
Given the travel time (5 hours round trip), some travelers opt to stay overnight, but it can be done in a day if you’re eager to see it.
Vienna Woods (Wienerwald)
If you want some fresh air and nature without going far, the Vienna Woods are the green highlands on the edge of the city.
Take a short bus or train to areas like Kahlenberg (with a sweeping view of Vienna and the Danube), Mayerling (site of a famous Habsburg tragic story), or Heiligenkreuz Abbey (a medieval monastery still active today).
There are numerous hiking trails shaded by beech and oak trees. One popular excursion is Seegrotte Hinterbrühl, a former gypsum mine with an underground lake you can boat on – it’s about a 30-minute drive or accessible by bus tour.
The Wienerwald offers a peaceful contrast to city sightseeing, and you might even stumble upon a heuriger in the woods for a glass of wine after your hike.
Since these areas are just 30–40 km out, you can mix a half-day in the woods with half a day back in the city easily.
Of course, there are many other possibilities. Hallstatt, the postcard-perfect village with a lake and alpine backdrop, is highly sought after by travelers, but it’s about 3+ hours one-way and tricky by public transit for a day trip (organized tours do run long day excursions there).
Graz, Austria’s second city, is 2.5 hours by train and has a charming old town and food scene. Even Budapest, Hungary (2h 40m by train) or Prague, Czech Republic (~4h by train) can be visited if you don’t mind an early start and late return, though they really deserve more than a day.
No matter which day trip you choose, check train/bus schedules ahead of time (the ÖBB rail website or app is very user-friendly) and aim to depart Vienna by 8 or 9 am to maximize your exploration time.
Budgeting and Costs
Vienna can accommodate a wide range of budgets, from frugal backpackers to high-end luxury.
Here’s a general idea of what to expect in terms of costs (note: prices in Euros €):
Accommodation
Hostel dorm beds range roughly from €20–€35 per night for a decent place (Vienna has quality hostels with good facilities).
Budget hotels and pensions might be around €60–€100 for a double room, while mid-range hotels average €120–€180 a night.
Luxury hotels and famous five-stars (think Hotel Sacher or the Imperial) can be €300 and up per night. There are many apartments on Airbnb as well, which for families or groups can be cost-effective.
If you’re traveling in peak summer or around New Year’s, book well in advance as prices can spike when demand is high.
Food
You can eat affordably if you take advantage of street food and supermarkets, or splurge on fine dining – it’s up to you.
For budget travelers, it’s possible to get by on €15–€20 per day on food by eating cheap: bakery pastries (€2–€3) for breakfast, Wurst stand or sandwich (€4–€6) for lunch, and perhaps a grocery store salad or a cheap eatery for dinner (€7–€10).
Mid-range, expect around €10–€15 for a lunch in a casual restaurant or cafe, and €15–€25 for a nice dinner entree at a standard restaurant. A three-course dinner at a good local restaurant might be ~€30–€40 per person, excluding drinks. High-end and gourmet restaurants (some Michelin-starred) could be €100+ per person for a tasting menu.
Beer in a pub is about €4 for 0.5L, wine maybe €3–€5 a glass in a normal place. A coffee in a cafe is around €3–€4. Tipping is small, as mentioned, so you’re not adding much extra there.
Keep in mind that many restaurants in touristy areas accept credit cards, but some local spots might prefer cash.
Transportation
Public transport is refreshingly affordable. A single ride for €2.40, or a day pass for ~€8, means you can budget just a few euros per day for getting around.
If you’re staying 3 days, a 72-hour ticket for €17.10 covers everything. Taxis are the budget-breaker – avoid them if pinching pennies. Coming from the airport on the S-Bahn for €4 instead of the CAT for €12 is another simple way to save money.
Also, many of Vienna’s attractions are within walking distance of each other, so you might not need transit at all on some days.
For regional travel, train tickets bought in advance online can be cheaper.
Overall, transport will likely be one of the smaller slices of your expense pie in Vienna.
Sightseeing & Activities
Many of Vienna’s pleasures are free or cheap – wandering the historic center, relaxing in parks and gardens, admiring church interiors, etc.
But you’ll likely spend on some museums and tours. Major museums and palaces have entry fees in the €10–€20 range (for example, St. Stephen’s towers ~€5 each, Schönbrunn Grand Tour €22, Hofburg combo ticket ~€16, art museums €15+).
If you plan to visit several, consider combo tickets or the Vienna Pass. Concerts or opera can range widely – a standing room opera ticket might be under €10, while a good seat could be €50–€100.
A decent budget is maybe €15–€30 per day for sights if you’re hitting one or two paid attractions (less if you’re a student or under 19 – many places have discounts or free entry for kids/teens).
Don’t forget small expenses like public toilets (often €0.50 – carry coins) or tips for guides.
If you’re on a tight budget, prioritize a few must-sees that really interest you and fill the rest of your time with free experiences.
How Much Do You Need?
To put it all together, a budget traveler might manage on around €60–€80 per day by staying in hostels, using public transit, and focusing on free/cheap activities. A mid-range traveler enjoying comfortable hotels and restaurants might spend about €150–€180 per day.
And a luxury traveler who wants five-star hotels, gourmet meals, and concerts could easily go €300+ per day. By regional standards, Vienna is moderately priced – cheaper than London or Paris, comparable to cities like Munich – and many visitors feel it’s good value for the high quality of experiences offered.
To save some cash, take advantage of lunch specials, use refillable water bottles, check museum websites for any free days or combined tickets, and consider exploring some of Vienna’s wonderful parks (Stadtpark, Volksgarten, the Danube Island), which are completely free.
You can also find free walking tours that work on a tips basis – a great introduction to the city without a fixed cost.
Vienna’s high quality of life extends to travelers too – even on a shoestring, you can enjoy its rich culture and comfort.
Now with all these tips and information in mind, you’re well-equipped to make the most of Vienna whether you’re here for two days or two weeks.
Safe travels (Gute Reise) and viel Spaß!
