27 of the Best Things to Do in Vienna in 2026

Half the fun of traveling is planning what to do on your upcoming adventure, like to the beautifully historic city of Vienna.

We're taking a look at 27 things to do in Vienna – Austria’s capital that balances rich imperial history with a lively, modern spirit. 

Whether you’re a foodie, history enthusiast, or like to explore hidden sites that are just a bit off the beaten path, there’s something on this list for you!

Vienna sites you can't miss

There are a few quintessential places that every traveler should add to their itinerary. Even if it’s your first time, these attractions/destinations will set the stage for really embedding yourself into Vienna’s unique charm.

1. Schönbrunn Palace

A Vienna must-visit is the Schönbrunn Palace, once home to the famous Habsburg monarchy. You can roll through the grand halls, stroll the landscaped gardens, and imagine what life was like as Austrian royalty.

The palace, which is ornately decorated with architectural elements, chandeliers, and art, offers gardens, staterooms, and private apartments for you to explore.

On top of that, there are cafes and restaurants on-site in case you need a mid-visit pick-me-up and a delicious slice of chocolate cake. Why not? It's vacation, after all.

How to visit the Schönbrunn Palace

The museum is open daily, and you’ll need tickets to visit. These tickets have fixed admission times and can be purchased online (which is recommended). There are a few different audio guides available for an additional charge as well.  

Where is the Schönbrunn Palace? 

The palace can be found at Schönbrunner Schloßstraße 47, 1130 Vienna. 

2. St. Stephen’s Cathedral (Stephansdom)

At the heart of Vienna's city center, this Gothic piece of architecture is unforgettable. With its intricately tiled roof and wooden attic space, you’ll be transported to another time as you take in Stephansdom's beauty. As an added bonus, if one is even needed, there’s a breathtaking view overlooking Vienna. This is for anyone who braves the climb up its South Tower (be warned, it's 447 feet, or 136.4 meters up!).

St. Stephen’s Cathedral is also home to the catacombs, an underground burial site with winding and twisting corridors that visitors can go into.

How to visit Stephansdom

The church is open daily and free to enter, but some areas are ticketed (such as those winding Catacombs). Additionally, closures can happen when events are in progress, so make sure to check their calendar before you go.

Where is St. Stephen’s Cathedral?

You can find the cathedral at Stephansplatz 3, 1010 in Vienna, Austria.

3. The Hofburg Palace and the Sisi Museum

The Hofburg was the power seat of the Habsburg dynasty, and the Sisi Museum inside offers a glimpse into Empress Elisabeth’s life.

You’ll see historic snapshots through the belongings of Empress Sisi, such as fans and gloves, beauty tools, a traveling medicine chest, and more. Make sure not to miss the Kaiserliche Schatzkammer Wien (the Imperial Treasury) to view all of the sparkling imperial jewels!

How to visit the Hofburg Palace and Sisi Museum

The palace is open daily and requires tickets. These tickets have timed entry, so plan accordingly. 

Where is the Hofburg Palace and Sisi Museum? 

The Hofburg Palace is located at Michaelerkuppel, 1010 in Vienna, Austria.

4. Ringstrasse: Vienna’s grand boulevard

Circling the inner city, the Ringstrasse is a ring road around the city center that is entirely walkable (it’s 5.3 kilometers long, which is just over 3 miles).

Lined with iconic buildings like the Rathaus and Burgtheater, it’s perfect for a tram ride or walk, and will give you a ton of examples of Vienna’s architecture. 

How to visit the Ringstrasse in Vienna

The Ringstrasse is a large boulevard, and it is open to the public at any time. 

Where is the Ringstrasse?

You can start the Ringstrasse at any location near the city center. Many travelers begin their walk in front of the Opera House at the Opernring, located at Opernring 2, 1010.

Vienna’s unique museums and art stops

Vienna is an art lover’s paradise, with a museum for every passion – from Renaissance masterpieces to modern art and examples of everything in between. Here are a few must-see attractions while filling up your Vienna itinerary.

5. Kunsthistorisches Museum

Housing works by Caravaggio, Raphael, and more, the Kunsthistorisches Museum is a can’t-miss stop for art enthusiasts. If you like to see a little bit of everything (from ancient Egypt to the late 18th century), you should add this museum to your list.

It even holds the world’s largest Bruegel collection! 

How to visit the Kunsthistorisches Museum

The museum is open daily, and tickets are required. The tickets do not have timed entry, so you can visit any hour you’d like, as long as it’s on the day the ticket is valid. Tickets are available online. 

Where is the Kunsthistorisches Museum?

You can find the museum at Neue Burg, Heldenplatz, 1010 in Vienna, Austria. 

6. Albertina Museum

If you’re curious about historical and contemporary works, Albertina hosts everything from paintings and drawings to graphic art, including exhibitions by Picasso and Monet. 

One of the most notable features of the Albertina is a printing room that has upwards of one million prints from old art masters on display. 

How to visit the Albertina Museum

The museum is open daily, and you’ll need tickets to enter, which you can buy online ahead of time. These tickets do not have time slots. 

Where is the Albertina Museum?

The Albertina Museum is in Vienna, Austria, at Albertinaplatz 1.

7. The Upper Belvedere Museum

Containing over 800 years of art history, you’ll see works from Schiele, Funke, Van Gogh, and even "The Kiss" by Klimt.

Additionally, this museum is inside of a Baroque palace, making the entire visit visually enticing from floor to ceiling.

How to visit the Upper Belvedere Museum

You’ll need tickets to enter the Upper Belvedere, and it’s open every day of the week except Tuesday. You can get your ticket online ahead of time. 

Where is the Upper Belvedere Museum? 

You can find it, and Klimt’s “The Kiss” at Prinz Eugen-Straße 27, 1030 in Vienna.

8. The Faelschermuseum

For a visit unlike anything else, visit the Faelschermuseum: Museum of Art Fakes. Learn the history of art forgery through stories of deception and intrigue in the world’s only art forgery museum. 

This Austrian museum includes genuine works from notorious art forgers throughout history. While they aren't the master's originals, they are the famous forger's.

You’ll learn lesser-known facts about crime in art, making it one of the more unique experiences to add to your Vienna itinerary. 

How to visit the Faelschermuseum (Museum of Art Fakes)

The Faelschermuseum is open daily, but hours vary, so make sure to check ahead of time. You will need tickets in order to visit, which can be purchased online.

Where is the Faelschermuseum?

The Museum of Art Fakes is located in Vienna, Austria at Löwengasse 28 (via a vis Hundertwasserhaus), A- 1030.

Unique places to go in Vienna

When it comes to things to do in Vienna, more "hidden" spots can offer an inside look that the main attractions just can't.

From cemeteries to unique architecture, these lesser-known spots are sure to add a sense of intrigue to your trip to Vienna. 

9. Friedhof der Namenlosen: Cemetery of the Nameless

For a reflective experience, the Cemetery of the Nameless honors unidentified souls lost to the Danube River (the river running through Vienna).

Unfortunately, from 1840 to 1940, unidentified bodies washed up on the shore of the Danube because of a water vortex (don't worry, this no longer takes place).

This cemetery is unique in that the plots are nameless and each is a victim of the Danube River. The other unique part of the cemetery is that it doesn’t look like a traditional cemetery. It is mostly large trees and overgrown vegetation. 

How to visit the Cemetery of the Nameless

Tickets aren’t required as it's a public cemetery space. Keep in mind that entry is only allowed during daylight; visits after dark are prohibited. 

Where is the Cemetery of the Nameless?

It is located in Vienna, Austria, at Alberner Hafen, 1110.

10. Hundertwasser Village

Designed by artist Friedensreich Hundertwasser, Hundertwasser Village is a playful shopping center open 365 days a year and free to enter. Across from Hundertwasser Village is the famous "Hundertwasser House", or Hundertwasserhaus (pictured above). It is also designed by Hundertwasser. 

Hundertwasserhaus is a housing complex with bright colors, uneven floors, and lush rooftop gardens that house native plant life, attracting native fauna.

The Hundertwasserhaus itself is not open to the public, as it’s a private residence, but you can look at it from the Hundertwasser Village while you grab a quick Vienna coffee.

How to visit Hundertwasser Village

This shopping center is open 365 days a year and is free to enter. Grab a coffee and enjoy!

Where is the Hundertwasser Village?

It is in Vienna, Austria, at Kegelgasse 37-39, 1030. 

11. Narrenturm

The Narrenturm is an 18th-century asylum that is now Vienna's museum of medical history. Its circular architecture and a bit obscure exhibits make it a memorable visit.

The Narrenturm has a bit of a complicated history. It was the first institution in Europe for the sole purpose of treating patients with mental disorders. 

Today, the building is owned by the University of Vienna and has a pathological-anatomical collection, historical medical devices, and educational materials, as well as information about medicine and illness. 

How to visit Narrenturm

The Narrenturm has limited open hours, Wednesday through Saturday. It is typically closed on holidays, so make sure to check online.

Tickets are required to explore the collection. 

Where is Narrenturm?

It is located in Vienna, Austria, at Spitalgasse 2, 1090.

12. Gasometer Town

Once just gas storage tanks, a collection of "buildings" has been transformed into residential and commercial spaces (a shopping mall, municipal archives, telecom companies, schools, etc.). 

It’s a unique area to explore if you are interested in industrial architecture and want to see something you probably aren't going to see anywhere else.

How to visit Gasometer Town

Much of Gasometer town is accessible to the public (for free), except for private residences, schools, and other private organizations, of course. 

Where is Gasometer Town? 

Gasometer Town is in Vienna, Austria, at Guglgasse 12, 1110.

Vienna cafés and cuisine

Vienna’s café culture is admired around the world. Whether you prefer coffee, tea, or something other hot beverage, there are so many popular spots to soak up the atmosphere and taste signature treats unique to Austria. 

13. Café Central

For coffee with a touch of history, Café Central has been a gathering place for intellectuals and artists for over a century. Some notable "barflies" included Freud, Polgar, and Trotsky.

The cafe is inside the Palais Ferstel, a large, beautiful house inspired by Venetian architecture.

Café Central offers both coffee and meals (such as Schnitzel), making it a great pit stop during your next adventure.

How to visit Café Central in Vienna

Café Central is located inside of the Palais Ferstel, and you can visit with reservations or without (though seating depends on availability for walk-ins). The cafe is open daily, but hours differ on Sundays and holidays. Make sure to check their official site before you visit.

Where is Café Central? 

Vienna, Austria inside the Palais Ferstel at Ecke Herrengasse / Strauchgasse 1010.

14. Vollpension: cake with a cause

Run by Vienna’s grandmas and grandpas, Vollpension is a café that combines traditional baking with social purpose. They aim to fight senior poverty and create a generational dialogue between “the young and the old”.

Where young and old get together to eat cake.

Here, you can try a homemade cake and enjoy the cozy, friendly vibe with Vienna locals and seniors.

How to visit Vollpension

There are two locations in Vienna (one in the 4th district and one in the 1st), and both accept reservations online. 

Where is Vollpension?

Vollpension Schleifmühlgasse is located in Vienna, Austria, at Schleifmühlgasse 16, A-1040.

Vollpension Johannesgasse is in Vienna, Austria, at Johannesgasse 4A A-1010.

15. Try the famous Sacher-Torte at Café Sacher

Don’t leave Vienna without tasting its iconic dessert: the Sacher-torte. Café Sacher serves this authentic Viennese treat. It's worth trying so you can get a real taste of Austria.

Sacher-Torte is a dense chocolate cake with a thin layer of apricot jam and dark chocolate icing. The Sacher-Torte at Café Sacher is considered to be the original, secret recipe (though, this is debated from time to time). 

How to visit Café Sacher

Located in the Hotel Sacher, it’s recommended to book a reservation for a table online as seats fill up quickly. 

Where is the Café Sacher?

The Café Sacher is located within the Hotel Sacher in Vienna, Austria, at Philharmoniker Str. 4, 1010.

16. Naschmarkt: a local market 

Naschmarkt is a large open-air food and drink market with local delicacies, international options, and bars and restaurants onsite. 

This market has been running since the 1700s, when it originated as a milk market outside of Vienna's old city walls.

Today, it's a large, daily market where locals get their produce and come together for some shopping.

Whether you want an authentic grocery experience, to try the Austrian flavors, or simply stroll the bustling streets like a Viennese local, Naschmarkt is a must-see. 

How to visit Naschmarkt

Naschmarkt is open daily and free to enter. Check online for any special closures or events.

Where is ,the Naschmarkt?

The Naschmarkt in Vienna, Austria is located at Naschmarkt, 1060.

Vienna’s gardens and parks

Take a breather from the city buzz in one of Vienna’s beautiful green spaces, of which there are many. 

17. Stadtpark and the Hochstrahlbrunnen Fountain

The Stadtpark, or “City Park,” offers green landscapes and famous monuments, including the golden statue of Johann Strauss.

It's also home to the Hochstrahlbrunnen Fountain, which is worth a stop all on its own.

This city park is divided into two sections and spans 28 acres, making it the perfect place to get some fresh air. In the park, you’ll also find a floral clock, thoughtful landscaping, and The Kursalon.

The Kursalon is now a music hall, but was originally a place to drink mineral water that was said to possess healing properties. 

How to visit Vienna’s Stadtpark

The Stadtpark is open daily and free to enter. Dogs are allowed, and there is also a playground and public bathroom on site. 

Where is the Stadtpark?

Stadtpark in Vienna, Austria, at Parkring 1, 1010.

18 and 19. Palmenhaus and Schmetterlinghaus

Palmenhaus is an architectural masterpiece filled with exotic plants, while Schmetterlinghaus (the Butterfly House) next door is a unique experience filled with, you may have guessed it, butterflies.

Palmenhaus is a glass greenhouse that is now a brasserie serving food, coffee, and other drinks. Reservations are available online.

Next door, the Butterfly House is an Art Nouveau building and home to 400 free-flying butterflies of different species.

How to visit Palmenhaus and Schmetterlinghaus

Palmenhaus is open 7 days a week, but hours vary on the weekends. Reservations are available online to eat at the brasserie. 

Schmetterlinhaus’s hours change depending on the season, but they are open Monday through Sunday, and tickets are required in order to enter. They may be closed for specific events (such as private wedding ceremonies), so plan your visit ahead of time.

Where are Palmenhaus and Schmetterlinghaus?

Both Palmenhaus and Schmetterlinghaus are located at Burggarten 1, 1010 in Vienna, Austria. 

Vienna’s cathedrals 

Vienna’s churches each tell a unique story through their architecture and history.

Whether you’re visiting for spiritual purposes or in admiration of the architecture and artistry, there are several churches you'll want to add to your Vienna itinerary.

20. St. Peter’s Church (Peterskirche)

Peterskirche is an ornate Baroque church, known for its magnificent interior and serene atmosphere. It is one of the oldest (if not the oldest) churches in Vienna and located in the heart of the city. 

It has a unique dome and fresco that ends up drawing in tourists from all over the world, so don’t forget to look up once you're inside.

How to visit St. Peter’s Church (Peterskirche) in Vienna

St. Peter’s is open 7 days a week. The church offers regular orchestra concerts as well (which usually require tickets). Check online for special events.

Where is St. Peter’s Church (Peterskirche)

Peterskirche can be found in Vienna, Austria, at Peterspl. 1, 1010.

21. Church of the Jesuits

This hidden gem near the University of Vienna features elaborate ceiling frescoes, a pink-marbled interior, and a golden glow. 

Consecrated in 1631, the Church of Jesuits is dedicated to the Assumption of the Virgin Mary into heaven. Occasionally, the church offers free orchestra concerts where seating is first-come, first-served. You can find schedules online.

How to visit the Church of the Jesuits in Vienna

The church of the Jesuits is free to visit and open 7 days a week. It may close during events. They also offer leaflets that are available in a variety of languages. 

Where is the Church of the Jesuits in Vienna?

The Church of Jesuits can be found in Vienna, Austria, at Dr. Ignaz Seipel-Platz 1, 1010.

22. Wotruba Church: a modernist marvel

Vienna is home to one of the most unique Catholic churches you’ll find. Wotruba Church defies traditional church design, built from stacked concrete blocks that create a bold, original form. 

It certainly doesn't look like the picture most travelers have in their head of a European cathedral.

Inspired by the Chartres Cathedral in France, but built in a Brutalist style, Wotruba is constructed of cement blocks and clear glass. 

How to visit the Wotruba Church

The church is open on Saturdays and Sundays, but may have closures when mass or other spiritual events are in session. It is free to enter unless otherwise noted. You can find a calendar/schedule online.

Where is the Wotruba Church?

Vienna, Austria, at Ottillingerplatz 1, 1230.

Unique things to do in Vienna

For those who like to go a bit off the beaten path when they travel, Vienna has so many experiences that go well beyond the post-card image we think of.

23. Stephansdom Crypt: the catacombs

Beneath St. Stephen’s Cathedral (listed above as a must-see) lies a crypt filled with royal tombs, ancient bones, and a bit of mystery.

The catacombs have around 30 rooms and are the final resting place for around 11,000 individuals. 

(see details about visiting above, as tickets are required).

24. The Imperial Crypt: the resting place of Habsburg Royals

Underneath the Kapuzinerkirche (Capuchin Church), the Imperial Crypt is the eternal home of the Habsburg monarchs.

The church itself is a must-see, too, with a fairly simple exterior and ornate interior. 

How to visit the Kapuzinerkirche

The Capuchin church is normally open during the day for visitors, but may close when events are taking place. 

Where is the Kapuzinerkirche?

The Capuchin Church can be found in Vienna, Austria, at Tegetthoffstraße 2, A-1010.

25. The Third Man Museum: escape into film noir

This niche museum celebrates “The Third Man” – an iconic film noir, offering insight into Vienna’s post-WWII era. If you plan to visit the museum, it's worth watching the movie beforehand.

This museum has 3000 original exhibits and documents and 15 rooms.

How to visit The Third Man Museum

The Third Man Museum is only open to the general public on Saturday afternoons, and tickets are required. 

With that being said, pre-booked private tours are available at any time. Pricing can be found on their official website.

Where is The Third Man Museum?

Vienna, Austria, at Pressgasse 25, 1040.

Shopping in Vienna

Vienna’s shopping scene has everything you need, from souvenir stores to stylish streets and unique finds. 

It's also a known-hub for second-hand and antique finds.

26. Burggasse: Thrift and vintage shopping in Vienna

If you're the kind of person who likes to find something totally unique, Burggasse (a district in Vienna), offers everything from retro vintage clothing to quirky antiques.

It’s perfect for travelers looking for something special to bring home, or scoring a random, old find.

From stationery and art books to locally-made goods, and even Vienna’s first vegan ice cream shop, this is a must-see neighborhood.

27. Flohmarkt Lager: treasure hunt at the flea market

The Flohmarkt Lager is a massive indoor flea market ideal for treasure hunters looking for vintage pieces, antiques, and Vienna-specific memorabilia.

It is the largest flea market in Vienna, spanning multiple blocks, meaning there’s something to see everywhere you look.

Whether you’re hunting for fashion finds, books, vinyl, artwork, or anything else, you’ll find it at the Flohmarkt Lager. 

How to visit the Flohmarkt Lager flea market in Vienna

This flea market is indoors and only open on Saturdays. It’s free to enter.

Where is the Vienna flea market? 

Tivoligasse 20, 1120 in Vienna, Austria.