About Vienna

Welcome to Vienna

Vienna, the capital of Austria, is one of Europe's most beautiful and liveable cities, where imperial heritage meets contemporary innovation. Famous for its magnificent architecture, world-class museums, vibrant cultural scene and exceptional quality of life, Vienna offers visitors a unique blend of history, tradition and modern urban living.

The city is compact and easy to explore thanks to its excellent public transportation system and short travel distances. Vienna provides a welcoming atmosphere, outstanding hospitality and a wide variety of experiences. From elegant palaces and historic coffee houses to innovative restaurants and green parks, every part of the city reflects its rich cultural heritage and forward-looking spirit.

As one of the world's leading destinations for international meetings and congresses, Vienna is also known for its high service standards, modern infrastructure and commitment to sustainability.

Belvedere Palace

© WienTourismus / Julius Hirtzberger


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Things to Do in Vienna

There is something for everyone to enjoy during a stay in Vienna. Some of the city highlights are:

Visit Schönbrunn Palace, the former summer residence of the Habsburg emperors, and stroll through its magnificent gardens.

Discover St. Stephen's Cathedral, Vienna's iconic landmark in the heart of the historic city centre.

Explore the Hofburg Palace, home to the Imperial Apartments, the Sisi Museum and the Austrian National Library.

Experience Vienna's famous coffee house culture with a traditional Viennese coffee and pastry.

Enjoy a classical concert or an evening at the world-renowned Vienna State Opera.

Visit the MuseumsQuartier, Kunsthistorisches Museum or Belvedere to admire world-class art collections.

Relax in beautiful green spaces including Stadtpark, Burggarten and the Danube Island.

Explore Vienna's diverse culinary scene, from Wiener Schnitzel and Sachertorte to innovative fine dining.


Useful Information

To get detailed information about all the sights, history as well as the various food and shopping possibilities of Vienna, you can download the ivie app for free.


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Vienna Landmarks

Hofburg

In the heart of Vienna, the Hofburg grew over more than 600 years as successive Habsburg rulers added new wings and buildings, resulting in a fascinating mix of architectural styles from medieval to baroque to neoclassical. It served as the seat of power for the Austro-Hungarian Empire and remains the official residence of the Austrian President today. Highlights include the Imperial Apartments, where you can see the lavishly decorated rooms once used by Emperor Franz Joseph and Empress Elisabeth ("Sisi"); the Sisi Museum, which delves into the life and legend of the beloved empress; the Imperial Treasury (Schatzkammer), home to the Habsburg crown jewels and imperial regalia; and the world-famous Spanish Riding School, where Lipizzaner stallions perform classical dressage in an ornate baroque hall. The complex also houses the Austrian National Library's magnificent State Hall and several excellent museums, making it easy to spend an entire day exploring.

Riesenrad

Standing 64.75 meters tall, the Riesenrad was built in 1897 to mark the 50th jubilee of Emperor Franz Joseph I's reign, and for decades it held the title of the world's tallest extant Ferris wheel. It survived a fire during World War II that destroyed most of its original cabins; only 15 of the current 30 red gondolas were rebuilt afterward, giving the wheel its slightly asymmetrical, historic charm. The Riesenrad gained international fame through its dramatic appearance in Carol Reed's 1949 film noir classic "The Third Man," starring Orson Welles, cementing its status as a symbol of Vienna in popular culture. A slow rotation takes about 15-20 minutes, giving riders plenty of time to enjoy sweeping views over the Prater park, the Danube, and the Vienna skyline. Some gondolas can even be booked for private dinners or events, adding a touch of romance to this beloved 19th-century landmark.

Schönbrunn Palace

Golden facades, endless gardens, and centuries of imperial splendor await at Schönbrunn. Wander through the numerous rooms once home to Empress Maria Theresa, lose yourself in the manicured baroque gardens, and discover why this UNESCO treasure remains the beating heart of Vienna's imperial story.

Volksgarten

Just steps from the Hofburg, this fragrant rose garden offers a peaceful escape from the city buzz. Find a bench beneath a classical temple, breathe in the blooms, and feel Vienna's elegant, unhurried rhythm.

Heurigen

The tradition of the Heuriger dates back to a 1784 decree by Emperor Joseph II, which granted winegrowers the right to sell their own wine and food directly from their homes without needing a special license. The name literally means "this year's" wine, referring to the young vintage typically served. Heurigen are concentrated in Vienna's outer districts, particularly Grinzing, Nussdorf, Sievering, and Neustift am Walde, where vineyards still climb the hillsides within the city limits. A traditional visit involves sitting in a rustic garden or wood-paneled room, choosing from a buffet of cold cuts, cheeses, spreads like Liptauer, and warm dishes such as roast pork or Schnitzel, all paired with a glass (or Achterl/Viertel) of local white wine, often a Grüner Veltliner. Many Heurigen also feature live Schrammelmusik, a traditional Viennese folk music style played on violin, accordion, and guitar, creating a warm, convivial atmosphere that's deeply woven into Viennese identity.

Stephansdom

The moment you step into St. Stephen's Cathedral, Vienna's soul reveals itself. Its dazzling tiled roof glimmers above the rooftops, while inside, centuries of prayers echo through Gothic stone. Climb the south tower for a view that will stay with you forever.

Belvedere

Wander through gilded halls where Gustav Klimt's shimmering masterpiece "The Kiss" awaits, then step outside into gardens designed to enchant. The Belvedere is where art and architecture come together in one unforgettable, romantic afternoon.

Prater

Escape into Vienna's favorite playground, where historic fairground charm meets wide, green paths perfect for wandering hand in hand. Whether you're chasing thrills on the rides or simply strolling beneath the trees, the Prater invites you to slow down and just enjoy being here.

Wiener Staatsoper

Under glittering chandeliers, world-class voices fill one of the most legendary opera houses on earth. Even a single evening at the Staatsoper feels like stepping into Vienna's grand cultural heartbeat — an experience that stays with you long after the curtain falls.

Michaelerkirche

Hidden beside the Hofburg, this quiet church holds surprising secrets. From baroque splendor to an eerie crypt of preserved remains below. It's one of Vienna's most fascinating hidden gems, waiting for the curious traveler to discover it.

Gloriette

Climb the hill above Schönbrunn and Vienna rewards you with one of its most breathtaking views. Framed by golden light at sunset, the Gloriette isn't just a monument, it's the perfect spot to pause, sip a coffee, and watch the whole city unfold before you.

Rathaus

By day, the Rathaus's Gothic spires pierce the sky in quiet majesty; by night, the square in front comes alive with festivals, markets, and music. Come feel the pulse of the city right where history and celebration meet.

MuseumsQuartier

Sink into a colorful lounger in a sun-drenched courtyard, surrounded by some of the world's boldest modern art. The MuseumsQuartier is where Vienna's creative spirit spills out into the open - vibrant, relaxed, and endlessly inspiring.

Karlsplatz

Stand before the majestic dome of the Karlskirche and feel Vienna's grandeur up close. With gardens, art, and stunning architecture all in one place, Karlsplatz captures the city's timeless elegance in a single unforgettable view.

Alte Donau

When summer arrives, locals trade cobblestones for sandy shores at the Alte Donau. Dive into calm blue waters, rent a boat, or simply relax at the sun-soaked side of Vienna that feels worlds away from the city center, yet is just minutes from it all.


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