The Best of Visiting Vienna, Austria

Cultural

The Hofburg: This is the former imperial palace of the Habsburg Dynasty, complete with the Imperial Treasury and a close look at the life of Empress Elizabeth at the Sisi Museum.

Schönbrunn Palace: Visit the summer residence of the Habsburgs, including all 1,441 rooms and beautiful gardens. It also hosts wonderful Easter and Christmas markets. The Vienna Philharmonic hosts an outdoor concert once per summer (usually in June) if you're lucky enough to be in town.

Albertina: A great collection of Impressionist artworks, photographs and prints, conveniently located right next to key hotels, the Opera House and a top-class sausage stand.

St. Stephen's Cathedral: It's quite a church and also happens to be the focal point of Vienna, standing since 1160. It is the seat of Roman Catholicism in the city. It has an iconic colorful roof and you earn a panoramic view if you climb the 343 steps to the top.

Vienna Operahouse: The Opera generally runs September - June, but the Opera House is absolutely worth the brief tour even if you can't make a performance (or prefer other activities.) It is truly a historic, majestic and one of the most important musical halls in the world.

General activities

The Burggarten and Volksgarten: These two compact parks are neighbors and can be combined for a wonderful stroll on a sunny day. They are located right next to The Hofburg. Be on the lookout for the famous statue of Mozart.

Mariahilferstrasse: This is one of Vienna's main shopping areas that happens to be an easy walk from the Ring (the central area of the city.) It also has quite a few dining options.

Grinzing: A short ride on Tram #38 will take you to Vienna's unique wine taverns known as Heuriger. They are just outside the city center and you'll feel like you're a world away.

Donauinsel aka The Danube Island: This is an artificial island within moments of the city— truly the outdoor playground of the Viennese. It's 13 miles long but only 200m wide. There are options for the athletic kind including running, biking and swimming as well as restaurants and other leisurely activities.

Coffee House Culture

Café Central: Tourists love it and there's a reason why: the classic vaulted ceiling dates back to 1876 and the location is a historic backdrop. Freud and Lenin also hung out here. Come here for a delicious breakfast, traditional coffee or a sweet pick-me-up.

Café Landtmann: A bit fancier than other coffee houses and often the perfect spot for a full meal, this is one of our favorite cafés in Vienna. It is part of the Querfeld Family portfolio that also includes Café Mozart (see below) and others. It's right on the Ring by the Burg Theater.

Café Mozart: Located by The Albertina and Opera House, this coffee shop has become our go-to for everything from a quick pastry and coffee to a traditional Viennese dinner.

Café Hawelka: This historic spot for a great Melange (similar to Cappuccino) and Buchteln (yeast buns filled with jam.) It's also known for its artistic atmosphere. It is located right next to the famous Graben shopping area.

Dessert

Demel: Purveyor to the Habsburgs, Demel is home to outstanding pastries, cakes and various sweet delights. A true institution dating back to 1786, there's also a small café here that serves meals in addition to the amazing desserts. A must-visit!

Kurkonditorei Oberlaa: During our last trip to Vienna, we came here three times! They carry excellent pastries, ice cream, macarons and cakes. Vienna coffee and drinks match along with friendly service. They have quite a few locations, but we love Neuer Markt 16 for the location and staff.

Restaurants

Figlmüller: Home of the original Wiener Schnitzel, Figlmüller feels like a mandatory stop for your Vienna visit. Both locations hit the mark (located one street apart,) however Bäckerstrasse is slightly more elegant.

Amerlingbeisl: A short walk from the Ring, this leafy neighborhood spot has a lovely courtyard, relaxed atmosphere and solid Viennese staples.

Hao Noodle & Tea: This was an excellent find on our last trip. Serving authentic Chinese noodle dishes, dumplings and other specialties, it's also minutes from key cultural sites near the Opera House.

Da Capo: This was recommended by our hotel concierge years ago and it's still going strong. Located on a quiet street near the city center, Da Capo serves authentic Italian cuisine from various regions in a cozy atmosphere.

Bitzinger Wurstelstand Albertina: As the name suggests, located right next to the museum, this is a simple sausage stand, but so much better! Often with a fast moving long line, it's open late and is the ultimate on-the-go meal.