Top 21 Best Attractions in Vienna for Tourists

Vienna, the capital of Austria, is a city steeped in history, culture, and art. From the grandeur of its imperial palaces to the charm of its cozy coffee houses, Vienna has something for everyone. As you stroll through the city, you’ll be amazed by the stunning architecture, beautiful parks, and world-class museums. Whether you’re a lover of classical music, a connoisseur of fine cuisine, or simply looking to immerse yourself in the Viennese way of life, this city has it all. Join us as we explore the top attractions in Vienna, and discover why this city is a must-see destination for any traveler.

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Vienna Art And Museums

Vienna Natural History Museum

Vienna Natural History Museum

There is a reason why the Vienna Natural History Museum is at the top of the list of attractions in Vienna.

Its diverse exhibits make it like a zoo without all the pesky animals who want to eat your peanuts! From the Fossil Vault and its life-size mammoth skeleton to the Insectarium, with over 15 million individual creepy crawlies on display, there’s something here for everyone.

Wander through the halls and marvel at everything from dinosaurs to meteorites! With interactive activities and live demonstrations all year round, no one will be left unimpressed by their experience here. And don’t forget, after you’re done exploring, you can visit the museum cafe – a great place to have a delicious slice of sachertorte and start planning your next adventure!

Visit Belvedere Museum

The Belvedere Museum is an old, classic ‘castle’ that looks like it was taken straight out of a fairytale. It provides visitors with an incredibly unique experience. The building is stunning, and the view of the cityscape from its grounds is breathtaking.

Inside the castle, you will find artwork ranging from Dutch masters to contemporary Austrian works, giving you a rich cultural insight.

But don’t worry, taking in all this culture won’t be hard work! As their slogan states: “A visit to the Belvedere Museum isn’t work – it’s playtime!” So make sure you bring your sense of adventure and prepare yourself for a fun-filled day of art and culture.

Visit the Museum Hundertwasser

Tourists visiting Vienna and searching for an edgy, off-the-beaten-path attraction should look no further than Museum Hundertwasser. This curious building stands as a statement against boring architecture – with its uneven floors and bright, irregularly shaped windows – and also houses funky artwork from the renowned environmentalist artist Friedrich Hundertwasser.

It’s the definition of a “breath of fresh air” when it comes to art galleries, so come on down and enjoy some fabulous modern art…with some extra curves included!

Visit the Leopold Museum

For art lovers looking for the perfect combination of kitsch and culture, look no further than the Vienna Leopold Museum. This delightful art museum is the place to go in Austria’s capital if you want to explore unique modern masterpieces with a side of 90s nostalgia – complete with glossy animations and vintage posters.

In terms of international art collections, it offers something different. Here, you’ll find renowned works by Egon Schiele, and Gustav Klimt housed amongst bright abstract pieces from the likes of Friedensreich Hundertwasser and Arnulf Rainer.

Once you’ve enjoyed the incredible art museum, be sure to take a mystical walk around Praterstern park. Believe us, it’s gonna be beautiful!

Kunsthistorisches Museum (Art History Museum)

Austria’s Kunsthistorisches Museum in Vienna holds a wealth of history, art, and culture! Visitors can take in the grand Flemish masterpieces, including masterful representations of still life and landscapes.

Not only that, but past curators had an eye for collecting other cultural gems; you’ll have to see it to believe the array of armor, weapons, costumes, porcelain, and ancient coins from cultures all around the world! Whether you’re a curious traveler or a history buff looking for a laugh, this museum will entertain you.

Plus, there’s never been a better time to visit – why not bring your family on an adventure through stoic portraits and fantastic Greek sculptures? A trip to Kunsthistorisches Museum will surely share some laughs with everyone!

Imperial Carriage Museum

Vienna’s Imperial Carriage Museum is the place you won’t want to miss when visiting this beautiful city. It boasts an impressive collection of restored and original carriages from the Habsburg Empire – ranging from a tiny toy coach for a doll to a quadruple state coach once used by Emperor Franz Joseph.

But don’t expect these stunningly lavish rides to take you any farther than your imagination! The museum also features interesting displays about horse history, so make sure to brush up before your visit — or risk feeling like the only one who doesn’t know a bonnet from its buttock.

With Familly and Kids

Tiergarten Schonbrunn (Vienna Zoo)

Vienna Zoo, or Tiergarten Schonbrunn, is a must-see for tourists visiting Vienna. Established in 1752 and holding the title of the oldest zoo in the world, this park has seen it all. From wild species such as polar bears and Bengal tigers to animals like capybaras who just want a tiny snack and a cuddle from visitors – it really has something for everyone!

With more than 700 exciting species spread over the sprawling area of 16 hectares, the zoo provides its visitors with plenty of fun activities, including a petting zoo, stunning outdoor gardens, and animal feeding zones.

And if you’re brave enough (or foolish!), why not take your chances for a 15-minute up-close-and-personal encounter with none other than a Komodo dragon? Now’s your chance to start living out those Jurassic Park fantasies!

Prater Amusement Park

If you are looking for a thrilling adventure, then Prater Amusement Park is where you should go! Aliens, unicorns, and even ogres – no fantasy creature has ever heard of this legendary amusement park, once visited by medieval kings and Santa Claus himself! Famous for its almost impossible rides and delightful food stalls, the place never ceases to bring joy to its visitors.

The majestic roller coaster gives something to remember. At the same time, the bumper car ride offers an adrenaline-filled challenge like no other. Spend a day slipping down slides and jumping over obstacles in your fantasy land at the magnificent Prater Amusement Park.

And don’t forget the giant Ferris wheel which considered one of the best attractions in Vienna for every kid! Standing at over 250 feet tall, it’s almost impossible to miss – but if it slips your mind, you’ll certainly regret it. The panoramic vistas from the top of this iconic wheel are second-to-none, so make sure it’s on your list of “must experience” attractions before the day is done!

Spanish Riding School

Vienna’s Spanish Riding School is as unique an experience as the city itself. Tourists looking for a once-in-a-lifetime event should get their tickets quickly! The school’s horses perform stunning balletic movements perfectly harmoniously with their riders. No matter your skill level, you can find something to appreciate.

Its popularity among locals means that tickets are highly sought after, so it pays to book ahead. But no matter when you visit, be sure to bring a camera – you don’t want to miss out on getting photos of some equestrian art that won’t look out of place in your holiday scrapbook!

Walk through the colorful homes of Hundertwasserhaus

If you’re looking for something different, why not take a walk through the Hundertwasserhaus? This magnificent building complex stands out from the crowd with its brightly colored façades, expressive architecture, and wonderful cafe.

All of this comes together to create a truly unforgettable experience that many people never forget. Wander through the cobbled streets surrounded by some of the most unique dwellings in Europe.

Take in the vibrancy of it all – every window frame, every roof tile – and enjoy a cup of coffee at the cafe before you go. Exploring the Hundertwasserhaus isn’t just about viewing beautiful art and architecture; it’s about feeling alive and being part of something truly special.

The Kaiserappartements (Imperial Apartments)

There’s always something new to discover when visiting the Vienna Imperial apartments! Built over two centuries ago, you can almost feel the history oozing through the walls. Once beginning as opulent living accommodations for European royalty, visitors today can take an exclusive peek into a life of wealth and power.

The best part? After all that exploring, you can indulge in some Viennese treats – think deliciously extravagant banoffee pies washed down with a melange or two! So why wait? Plan your visit to these grand one-of-a-kind apartments now, and prepare to be dazzled!

Palaces, Cathedrals, and Churches

Hofburg Palace

If you’re looking for a bit of royal pampering, the Hofburg Palace in Vienna is the place to go. This monumental landmark stands as one of Vienna’s oldest structures, and its beautiful Baroque architecture makes it one of the city’s most diverse tourist destinations.

Whether you’re interested in experiencing Austria’s imperial origins or admiring the breathtaking Crystal Hall, collections of artwork, and unique imperial apartments – no matter what floats your boat, you’ll find it all in Hofburg Palace!

Plus – and this is why I personally love visiting – forget about having to take a slew of pictures with your phones – because, in true photography-connoisseur style, there are sculptures of all royal members at each and every corner, generously posing for interesting shots.

Belvedere Palace

The Belvedere Palace in Vienna is one of the top tourist sights. There is nothing like so many awe-inspiring grand halls to make you feel like Empress Sisi herself. Once upon a time, it was the private residence of Prince Eugen, and now, after extensive renovations over the years, tourists of all ages can come to enjoy a stroll around these magnificent grounds!

From gardens with amazing water features like cascading fountains to sculptures that have been around since the 17th century, you will be in complete awe of the Baroque architecture here. If culture is more your thing than nature, why not take a look at some of the world-famous collections inside, such as Klimt’s masterpiece The Kiss. There really is something here for everyone!

Schönbrunn Palace​ Vienna

Feel like royalty at Schönbrunn Palace

When visiting Vienna, a trip to Schönbrunn Palace is an absolute must. As the former imperial summer residence, it’s been attracting attention for centuries! Admirers have much to take in — from its Baroque-style gardens to its impressive 1,441-room interiors.

Although you may be tempted to explore all of them, don’t forget to check out their ‘Royal Games and Treats’ exhibit, which features amusing historical anecdotes like the origami-folding contest held by the Emperor of Austria in the 19th century. Don’t miss out on this unique chance to join in on this historical fun!

The Vienna State Opera House​

The Vienna State Opera House

Suppose you are looking for a superb experience from your travels. In that case, there is nothing more fitting than visiting The Vienna State Opera House in Vienna. With its ornate detail and neoclassical façade, the opera house will have you feeling like royalty – minus the princely expense of a ticket!

Not to worry, though, if you can’t afford the box seats, simply stand outside the opera house and take in its beauty, or join one of the many tour groups that give insight into the lavish interiors of this Viennese wonder. Of course, don’t forget to treat yourself to some yummy strudel while soaking up all that Vienna has to offer.

Visit St Stephen's Cathedral

Take your curiosity and faith to a new level when you visit St Stephen’s Cathedral in Vienna! Boasting over 800 years of splendid history, this beautiful cathedral is a must for any discerning traveler. It has many unique features – its enormous dome, the icon of the Horseman in the downstairs niche, and even a catacomb with more than 10,000 graves.

But be warned: due to damage caused by two disastrous fires in 1945, visiting certain areas requires extreme caution – there might even be a few ghostly spirits lurking around. Overall, you’re sure to have an unforgettable time at St Stephen’s Cathedral and will come away with plenty of stories to tell your friends back home!

Explore Imperial Schönbrunn Palace and Gardens

Schönbrunn Palace near Vienna, Austria, may just be the most Instagrammable place you’ll ever visit with its ornate Baroque architecture and Italian gardens, complete with wonderful statues. Not to mention, Schönbrunn served as the former imperial summer residence of Austria’s monarchy for centuries.

So don’t forget to take pics of yourself pretending to be a royal in this majestic place! But since I know everyone has some type of budget for their vacations, be sure to check out the discount packages and special offers when planning your trip. With that being said, get ready for an unforgettable experience roaming around Europe’s oldest zoo and absorbing all the culture this beautiful palace has to offer.

Charles Church (Karlskirche)

With the stunning golden dome standing against the Vienna skyline, one cannot miss the beautiful St. Charles Church (Karlskirche) when in Vienna. Often referred to as ‘the most German Baroque church outside of Germany, its sheer magnificence and atmosphere must be experienced to be believed!

Here, visitors can look forward to grand and intricate design elements, including vast frescoes and captivating sculptures from the Imperator figures Apollon, Amor, and Hermes, to name a few! Be sure to climb up the dizzying church tower for unbeatable panoramic views of the city. Tourists will relish their time at St. Charles Church – an essential stop on any Vienna itinerary!

Vienna City Hall (Rathaus) in the Historic City Center

Vienna City Hall in the Historic City Center of Vienna is a must-see for any visitor looking to explore the past and marvel at one of Austria’s most beautiful architectural sights. This striking landmark creates an unforgettable first impression from its multi-story towers to its intricately decorated facade.

Of course, it’s not just fun to look at but is also full of stories about Vienna’s past and present, so why not take a guided tour to learn more about the building itself and its role in the city? And don’t forget that you can draw nice selfies with all those magnificent decorations – your Instagram followers will be impressed!

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