I’ve been calling Vienna my elective home for a decade now. Still, whenever I walk through the Inner District or discover a new corner of the city, I’m amazed by its beauty. I’d even go so far as to say that Vienna is probably one of, if not the most beautiful cities in Europe. In recent years, it has even been voted the most liveable city in the world. And while both locals and tourists often complain about the Viennese being a bit grumpy, I promise it’s still absolutely worth a visit – well beyond just 72 hours.

Getting Around

Vienna’s public transportation system, operated by Wiener Linien, makes exploring the city incredibly easy. Metro, tram, and bus stops are well-connected, and service is frequent and reliable. If you’re staying longer than 72 hours, it’s worth getting the 7 Tage Wien ticket, valid for seven consecutive days from your chosen start date.

Are you arriving at Vienna International Airport and want to save money getting to the city center? Skip the pricey City Airport Train (CAT) and instead take the regular S-Bahn trains operated by ÖBB. You can buy your ticket at the ÖBB ticket counter at the airport, from the red ticket machines, or online. Tip: If you already have your Wiener Linien ticket, you only need to pay for the segment from the airport to the city border (German: Stadtgrenze).

What To Do & See Around The City

Like any major city, Vienna has some must-see attractions. Simply strolling through the historic city center, you’ll pass iconic landmarks like St. Stephen’s Cathedral (called Steffl by locals), the Albertina Museum, Saint Michael’s Church, and the Hofburg Palace with Heldenplatz.

A walk along the Ringstraße, the grand boulevard encircling the old town, reveals even more of Vienna’s iconic architecture. Along the way, you’ll see the Vienna State Opera, City Hall, the Austrian Parliament Building, the Museum of Natural History, the Museum of Art History, the Burgtheater, the Votive Church, and parks like Volksgarten, Burggarten, and Stadtpark. Many of the city’s most luxurious hotels also line the Ring. Fun fact: Volksgarten is not only a beautiful public park, it’s also the name of one of Vienna’s most popular clubs. Tired of walking? Hop on tram line 1 at Schottentor toward Schwarzenbergplatz. Use your public transport ticket for this ride, which takes you past many of the same landmarks at no extra cost.

It’s not just the Inner City that dazzles. Other highlights include the Belvedere Palace, the Viennese Giant Ferris Wheel and Prater Amusement Park, and the colorful Hundertwasser House. And of course, don’t miss Schönbrunn Palace. While there, you can explore the palace, visit the world’s oldest zoo, or hike up to the Gloriette for stunning panoramic views.

No matter the season, Vienna is also a fantastic city for shopping. You’ll find both international brands and local boutiques along Kärntner Straße and Mariahilfer Straße, the city’s main shopping streets. Saturdays are market days and perfect for exploring Naschmarkt, Karmelitermarkt, Brunnenmarkt, or Kutschkermarkt, where you’ll find everything from fresh produce and street food to handmade crafts and antiques.

If you’re into exploring local neighborhoods, take a stroll through Neubau, Vienna’s creative and hipster heart, filled with indie stores and cool cafés. Or visit Leopoldstadt, rich in Jewish history and culture, and increasingly known for its vibrant mix of old and new Vienna. For panoramic views over the city skyline, make a stop at the IKEA rooftop at Wien Westbahnhof, a surprisingly chill and free spot with great scenery year-round.

If you have extra time, venture beyond the city limits. Want sweeping views over Vienna? Take bus 38A from Heiligenstadt to either Kahlenberg or Cobenzl. Did you know Vienna also has a wildlife preserve? The Lainzer Tiergarten spans over 25 square kilometers of forest and meadows and is a perfect address for peaceful hikes and spotting local wildlife.

Where & What To Eat

Vienna isn’t just famous for its imperial architecture and classical music, it’s also home to a culinary tradition known as Wiener Küche. It’s the only cuisine in the world named after a city rather than a country, and it’s a delicious blend of Central European influences.

For the iconic Wiener Schnitzel, try Figlmüller, which also offers a vegan version, or Artner am Franziskanerplatz. Another classic is Tafelspitz (boiled beef or veal), best enjoyed at Plachutta, a restaurant well-known for this dish. Beyond the classics, Vienna offers everything from historic cafés and century-old Würstelstände (sausage stands) to trendy brunch spots and third-wave coffee shops. It’s also home to Steirereck, one of the world’s top restaurants.

No trip to Vienna is complete without trying a slice of Sachertorte, either at Aida or the original at Café Sacher. Not a fan of chocolate cake? Go for an Apfelstrudel paired with a classic Wiener Melange instead. And if you’re looking for more recommendations, check out my Vienna Food Guide.

Seasonal Things To Do

In summer and on warm days, grab a drink at MuseumsQuartier and relax in its vibrant outdoor area. Or head to the Danube Canal for a drink at one of the many bars there such as Adria Wien, Neni am Wasser, or Taste!, and watch the sunset by the water. You can also visit one of the city’s many rooftop bars for panoramic views. Popular choices include Dachboden at 25hours Hotel, Lamée Rooftop, or Istros at the Radisson RED Hotel.

Summer and autumn are also great for a visit at a nearby Heuriger, a rustic wine tavern serving cold cuts and local wine. You’ll find them in neighborhoods like Ottakring, Grinzing, or Stammersdorf. Or rent one of Vienna’s city bikes and head to Donauinsel for a swim in the Danube.

Even on rainy or colder days and in winter, Vienna has plenty to offer. Visit an art gallery or museum such as Albertina, Albertina modern, mumok, the Museum of Applied Arts (MAK), or the Leopold Museum. Catch a musical at the Ronacher or Raimundtheater, or dive into the past of the city at Time Travel Vienna. And of course, during the holiday season, the city transforms into a Christmas wonderland and is a popular destination for visiting Christmas market all across the city.