Vienna travel guide

Experts in travel to Europe
We have years of experience and local knowledge
24/7 customer support
Reach us any time of the day in just a few seconds

Introduction to Vienna

Schönbrunn Palace, St. Stephen's Cathedral, and Belvedere Palace have one thing in common - they're all three very good reasons to visit Vienna, Austria. This capital of and state in Austria is a travel destination everyone should visit at least once in their lifetime. Boasting a variety of natural beauty and architecture, a unique historical background, and a culture as rich as its population of over 2 million people, the city of Vienna is truly one of the main highlights of Austria.

Traveling to Vienna is especially rewarding for anyone eager to connect with locals and learn more about their unique culture and traditions. The city was named after Wien. DestinationLanguage is the official language in Vienna, but many of the city's locals and residents can communicate in other languages, including Austrian German. Dive deeper into the heart of Vienna's heritage, traditions, and community events by exploring the official website at https://www. Wien. Gv. At/.

Easily accessible, Vienna is the perfect base for a memorable and unique vacation in Austria any time of the year. Before booking a flight to Vienna, it's helpful to know that the city observes the UTC+01:00 time zone.

History of Vienna

Vienna, the gem of Austria, boasts a rich history that dates back to the Roman era. Established as a military camp called 'Vindobona' around 15 BC, it was later transformed into a bustling metropolis.

During the Middle Ages, Vienna emerged as a significant center for the Holy Roman Empire and was the birthplace of the Austrian Habsburg dynasty. The city flourished under the rule of the Habsburgs, marking an era of Renaissance and Baroque influence.

In the 19th century, Vienna became an important hub of the arts and culture during the 'Viennese Modern Age'. It hosted iconic figures like Gustav Klimt and Sigmund Freud.

The city witnessed devastation during World War II but has since rebuilt itself into a modern, cosmopolitan city, while preserving its historical roots. Today, Vienna's rich past can be seen in its magnificent palaces, museums, and architectural marvels, making it an irresistible destination for history enthusiasts.

Top services in Vienna

On this page, you'll find all the top travel services in Vienna, Austria. Enjoy the convenience of planning and booking every detail of your trip to Vienna, including flights, accommodations, activities, and more, in one place. We make it easy for you to find and book the top services in this city with this travel guide to Vienna.

Check out the cheapest and most popular flights offered by a variety of airlines that fly to Austria. Browse the 892 top-rated tours available to you in Vienna. Compare the rates and services of the 5 types of places to stay and 13 car rental companies offering CDW insurance coverage.

Experience the best of Vienna with an expertly curated and fully customizable itinerary. Get answers to questions about the routes and services offered in Vienna from our free 24/7 customer support.

Continue reading this Vienna travel guide to learn how you can enjoy a stress-free and memorable vacation in the city of Vienna!

Best time to visit Vienna

The best time to explore Vienna is during the spring (April to June) and fall (September to October). These periods offer mild weather, fewer crowds, and lower accommodation prices. Spring is particularly scenic with blooming flowers creating a picturesque backdrop to Vienna's historical architecture. In the fall, the city becomes a vibrant tapestry of reds, oranges, and yellows. The summer months (July and August) are also popular due to warm weather and numerous festivals. However, they attract larger crowds and higher prices. Winter, especially December, has its charm with Christmas markets, twinkling lights, and festive atmosphere, though the weather can be quite cold. Regardless of the season, Vienna is always ready to enchant with its imperial history, music, and coffeehouse culture. Therefore, the best time to visit will depend on your personal preferences. Plan your trip around these factors for a memorable Viennese adventure.

Weather in Vienna

Vienna, Austria enjoys a mild continental climate. Summers are generally warm and can get hot, with average high temperatures of 24-33°C (75-91°F) from June to August. Occasionally, the city can experience some hotter days, but these are usually tempered by cooling breezes. Winters are cold, with frequent frosts and occasional snowfall. The average winter temperature ranges from -1 to 3°C (30-37°F).

Spring and autumn are typically mild, with temperatures ranging between 10-20°C (50-68°F). Rainfall is evenly distributed throughout the year, but the city experiences its highest rainfall during the summer months. Despite this, Vienna is known for its clear, sunny days, particularly during the spring and autumn seasons. It's important for travelers to pack appropriate clothing according to the season. In winter, warm clothing, including hats, gloves, and scarves, is essential. In summer, light clothing with a few layers for cooler evenings is recommended. Always carry an umbrella or raincoat, as rain showers can occur unexpectedly.

Local tip for visiting Vienna

An insider tip for visiting Vienna is to embrace the city's coffee culture, but not in the way you might think. Vienna is famous for its coffee houses, but locals know that the best coffee is often found in the small, unassuming bakeries scattered throughout the city. Known as 'Bäckerei Kaffee,' it's a simple yet satisfying cup of coffee usually enjoyed with a fresh pastry. These bakeries are a staple of Viennese life and offer a more authentic experience than the more tourist-oriented coffee houses. They also provide a great opportunity to sample local pastries and interact with locals. So, follow the delicious smell of freshly baked bread early in the morning, grab a newspaper, and enjoy your Bäckerei Kaffee like a true Viennese.

Learn more about Austria

There are many reasons to visit the city of Vienna, but a trip to Austria needs no explanation.

Exploring Austria, which spans 83,879 square kilometers, is an adventure of a lifetime. Austria offers an abundance of truly magical places to discover, including cultural, historic, and scenic sites of significant value to both locals and travelers.

As the home country of many world-famous attractions like the spectacular Schönbrunn Palace, St. Stephen's Cathedral, and the Belvedere Palace, you’re all set for a unique and memorable travel experience in Austria.

Click or tap the link below to discover more about Austria.

What to see in Vienna

Photo of Vienna from Saint Stephane's cathedral, Austria.

Vienna has something for everyone. Regardless of age and interest, travelers have the best time exploring every corner of the city.

Keep reading this Vienna travel guide to discover the best places to visit and find out what to expect from the city.

Top attractions in Vienna

With its blend of traditional and modern culture, Vienna is more than just a wonderful city in Austria. It's a hub for diverse experiences, boasting top attractions that range from historical landmarks to modern marvels, offering a glimpse into Austria's rich heritage and innovative spirit.

One fascinating place to visit in Vienna is the unforgettable Schönbrunn Palace. Considered one of the most well-known attractions in the city, a visit to this spectacular travel destination is something you shouldn’t miss on your trip to Vienna. This remarkable attraction is located at Schönbrunner Schloßstraße 47, 1130 Wien, Austria, and is open for visitors Monday - Sunday, between 08:30-17:30.

For more information about what you can expect during a vacation in Vienna, check out our list of top attractions below. Discover the best places to visit in Vienna, including the fascinating Schönbrunn Palace, St. Stephen's Cathedral, Belvedere Palace, Schönbrunn Palace Park, and Hofburg.

Map of attractions

Use this map to find the location of all of the top attractions in Vienna.

Things to do in Vienna

Photo of St. Charles's Church in Vienna, Austria.

Enrich your travel experience in Vienna by joining tours and activities. Vienna offers an exciting selection of top-rated tours, and it's easy for every traveler to find something they like. Make the most of your time by checking out the best sights, experiencing fun adventures, or discovering exciting facts about the local history and culture through guided tours in Vienna.

Discover the most popular tours and experiences in the city below.

Most popular experiences in Vienna

Traveling is all about gaining new experiences. You can have that and more in the city of Vienna.

There are many activities and tours in Vienna for travelers to choose from. Historical Tours, Walking Tours, and Bus Tours are only a few of the many experiences you can book for your holiday in Austria.

Explore the most popular experiences you can join in Vienna by clicking on one of the top-rated tour categories below.

Top tours & tickets starting in Vienna

In Vienna, travelers are spoiled for choice with a dazzling array of 25 categories of top-rated tours and tickets. But among this sea of options, one category reigns supreme: Trips & Excursions.

Trips & Excursions offer an unparalleled opportunity to immerse yourself in the heart and soul of Vienna. For example, the fantastic Private Vienna: Food, Coffee and Market Walking Experience .

Vienna also offers plenty of budget-friendly tours and activities that promise travelers a unique experience. Immersive GPS positioning audio guide-the soul of Vienna, for example, is the cheapest Nature & Wildlife Tour option in the city. This experience costs around 5 EUR.

Elevate your upcoming Vienna adventure with unforgettable experiences by booking top-rated tours in the city. Uncover the finest tours, activities, and tickets awaiting you in Vienna right below.

Find

All Experiences in Vienna

See more

Search for things to do in Vienna

Discover the best things to do in Vienna. Choose from 892 fantastic tours and activities available in the city.

Select your dates and number of travelers in the search bar below to receive the best recommendations for your vacation in Vienna. Click the green button to view your options and discover a variety of exciting things to do in Vienna.

What to eat in Vienna

Vienna, Austria's capital, is a gastronomical paradise for food lovers. From traditional dishes to modern cuisine, the city's culinary landscape is as diverse as it is delicious. The best places to eat in Vienna range from high-end restaurants in districts like Innere Stadt, to bustling street food markets in the trendy district of Naschmarkt. Vienna's traditional dishes are a must-try. Sample Wiener Schnitzel, a breaded and fried veal cutlet, or Tafelspitz, boiled beef in broth served with apple and horseradish sauces, in the many traditional Viennese restaurants. For dessert, indulge in a slice of Sachertorte, a rich chocolate cake with apricot jam, or Apfelstrudel, an apple strudel. For a unique dining experience, visit the historic coffee houses which serve a variety of Viennese pastries and coffee. You can also opt for a 'Heuriger' – a traditional wine tavern – to enjoy local wines with your meal. Exploring the food scene in Vienna is not just about eating, it's about experiencing the city's rich culture and history through its food.

Best Shopping in Vienna

Vienna elegantly blends tradition with the contemporary, creating a unique shopping experience with a distinct Austrian charm. The Mariahilfer Straße, the city's largest shopping street, is undoubtedly the best place to go shopping in Vienna. It offers a diverse mix of international and local fashion boutiques, along with numerous shops selling traditional Austrian crafts.

Another must-visit shopping destination is the Naschmarkt, the city's most popular outdoor market. Here, you can find everything from fresh produce to local delicacies, antique goods, and unique souvenirs. For luxury shopping, head to the Goldenes Quartier, where high-end brands like Louis Vuitton and Emporio Armani have their flagship stores.

Don't miss the opportunity to purchase iconic Viennese souvenirs, such as handcrafted snow globes, Sacher Torte, and Mozart Balls. Vienna is also famous for its craftsmanship in jewelry, particularly its sparkling crystals and delicate filigree work. As you shop, remember that most stores in Vienna close around 6:00 PM and are closed on Sundays, so plan your shopping spree accordingly.

Best Free Things to Do in Vienna

Vienna, Austria's capital, is renowned for its cultural and historical richness. Fortunately, experiencing its charm doesn't require a hefty budget. Among the best free things to do in Vienna is visiting the St. Stephen's Cathedral, a towering Gothic masterpiece that has stood the test of time. Explore Vienna's vibrant street art scene in the district of Donaukanal, where the city's creative pulse truly comes alive. The MuseumsQuartier is a cultural hub home to stunning architecture and open-air art exhibitions. For nature lovers, the Vienna City Park offers a refreshing green oasis amidst the urban hustle, while the Schönbrunn Palace gardens are a perfect blend of natural beauty and royal grandeur. Don't miss the Ringstrasse, a circular boulevard offering an architectural tour-de-force with sights like the Vienna State Opera and the Rathaus. Lastly, immerse yourself in Vienna's musical heritage at the State Opera House's free live-streamed performances on the external wall. With these activities, Vienna promises a rich and fulfilling experience without spending a dime.

Vacation packages in Vienna

Photo of the Volksgarten (People's Garden) in Vienna, Austria.

Booking a vacation package to Vienna means spending less time planning and more time enjoying your vacation. A vacation package includes everything from flight tickets, accommodation, and a rental car to 24/7 personal travel support and a carefully planned travel itinerary. You can also take your vacation in Vienna to the next level by adding tours, tickets, and activities to each day of your trip.

Apart from providing you with everything you need to travel comfortably, your vacation package to Vienna is also fully customizable. In other words, you can add or remove services at your own convenience to create the perfect vacation for you and your travel companions.

Continue to the next section of this complete Vienna travel guide to explore further details about the vacation options available for your trip to the city.

Popular types of vacations in Vienna

The most popular way to experience Vienna is by visiting the city as part of a road trip across multiple destinations in Austria. However, it is also common for travelers to go on holiday to Vienna on both shorter and longer getaways to get a break from everyday life, relax, and experience something new.

With Guide to Europe, you can find road trips, city breaks, and weekend getaways in Austria, ranging from budget to luxury. Whether you’re planning a multi-day road trip across Austria, or you just want to enjoy a few days exploring Vienna, there is a vacation package for you.

Continue reading this Vienna travel guide for more essential tips on planning your trip, and don't forget to check out these most popular vacation packages in Vienna below.

Top vacation packages in Vienna

Travelers have a great selection of travel packages to choose from in Austria. In fact, you can choose from as many as 802 different top-rated vacation packages to take you to Vienna, and even more if you expand your search to include a bigger area of Austria.

To help narrow down your choices, here are some of the best vacation packages for exploring the city of Vienna.

For an epic vacation, discover Vienna and other top destinations in Austria on a top-rated holiday like the 10-Day Road Trip to Austria, Germany, Switzerland, and Czech Republic. If Vienna Operahouse, Schönbrunn Palace Park, Viennese Giant Ferris Wheel, Schönbrunn Zoo, and Schönbrunn Palace are on your bucket list, this is the perfect vacation package for you.

If you would like to go on a budget vacation in Vienna, book the popular Cheap 3-Day Austria City Break in Vienna and spend as little as 174 EUR. This vacation will take you on a journey to experience some of the most incredible attractions and sights in Vienna, including the fantastic Vienna Operahouse, MuseumsQuartier, Haus des Meeres, Schönbrunn Palace, and St. Stephen's Cathedral.

Get more Vienna vacation ideas by continuing to read this Vienna travel guide and discover the greatest selection of travel packages in Europe. Scroll down to find the best vacation packages in Austria that match your needs and budget.

Find

All Vacations in Vienna

See more

Find vacation packages in Vienna

Discover and compare 802 vacation packages that take you to the wonderful city of Vienna. The best flights, hotels, and activities in Vienna get fully booked quickly. Use the search tool below to find the best travel deals in Austria. Your customized holiday package to Vienna is only a few clicks away!

How to get to Vienna

To get to the city of Vienna the fastest way possible, visitors from outside Austria can travel by plane. International travelers can fly to Vienna by booking flights with any of the 28 airlines that offer direct flights to Vienna International airport. Some airlines that operate flights to Vienna International airport are United Airlines, Allegiant Air, Virgin Atlantic Airways, Frontier Airlines, and Spirit Airlines. Go to this page to compare all flights to Vienna.

To get to the city of Vienna, travelers can choose from various airport transfer options available at Vienna International airport.

If you're looking for the best flight ticket deals to Vienna, knowing the cheapest travel time and which airlines offer the most affordable flights is helpful. Luckily, we have this information for you. Discover more about the cheapest and most popular flights to Vienna International airport and Vienna below.

Find cheap flights to Vienna

Photo of upper Belvedere palace and gardens in spring, Vienna.

Booking budget-friendly flights to Vienna is a crucial part of planning your trip to the city. This section will guide you through the process, helping you find the best deals for your journey.

Booking in advance is a smart move when traveling to Vienna. Airlines release their best deals months ahead of departure, so early birds catch the lower fares.

Consider flexible travel dates while planning your visit to the city. Mid-week and off-peak seasons often offer more wallet-friendly options.

Use the powerful booking widget below. Enter your departure city, choose between round trip or one-way, pick your fare class, select travel dates, and specify the number of travelers. Click "Search, " and the widget will do the rest. You'll see a list of flights matching your criteria, making your trip to Vienna even more convenient.

Fine-tune your search with filters to sort by price, airline, layovers, and more. Once you've found your ideal flight, click "Book, " and you'll be redirected to the booking page to complete your reservation. Enter your payment details and receive a confirmation – it's that simple!

Remember to book ahead, stay flexible, and utilize the widget's features to make your journey to Vienna both affordable and unforgettable.

Popular flights to Vienna

To streamline your travel planning process, explore the most popular flights to Vienna below. Discover direct routes from major international hubs and convenient connections tailored to suit your travel preferences. Click to delve into the diverse array of flights available to Vienna and embark on an unforgettable journey.

Where to stay in Vienna

Photo of Church Heiliger Franz of Assisi at Mexikoplatz, Vienna.

An essential factor to consider when traveling to a new place or country is accommodation. While visiting a city as fantastic as Vienna is always exciting, any avid traveler knows that accommodations often make or break the vacation experience. The best place to stay in Vienna usually depends on travelers' needs and preferences. However, booking accommodations in central Vienna offers a ton of benefits.

Staying in the heart of the city allows you to easily walk to many of the top sights and dining areas in Vienna and cut down on your travel expenses. Centrally located accommodations are also an excellent choice for travelers in Vienna planning to go on a quick tour or drive to the neighboring regions.

In Vienna, you'll find 5 different types of places to stay, catering to every taste, budget, and reason for travel. For example, honeymooners or travelers on a romantic getaway in Austria can experience the ultimate relaxation at one of the 5-star or 4-star hotels in Vienna. Travelers whose purpose is sightseeing can also find plenty of mid-range and budget-friendly hotels in the city, allowing access to many of the top attractions in Vienna.

Learn more about the most popular places to stay and the top-rated hotels in Vienna in the following sections.

Popular types of accommodation in Vienna

A trip to Vienna means opportunities to relax at any of the 5 different types of places to stay in the city. While each type offers varying amenities and rates, there is no denying that Vienna provides a great selection of lodging options ready to cater to every kind of guest.

Among all the choices available in the city, Superbude Wien Prater is one of the top picks of travelers in Vienna. Superbude Wien Prater is a 4-star stay with an average rating of 9859 stars out of 5 from 4 guests. The hotel is located at 8 Perspektivstraße and boasts many great utilities, including 24-hour front desk, free wi-fi, and bar.

Budget accommodations are also incredibly popular among travelers in Vienna. Cheaper alternatives allow travelers to save on accommodation costs and have more to spend on other experiences.

In Vienna, travelers looking for an economical yet top-rated place to stay usually choose Holiday Inn Vienna - South. For approximately 118 EUR, guests can book a comfortable Double Room at this popular hotel, which also offers bar, restaurant, and more.

Below is a list of all 5 different types of places to stay in Vienna. Select the type you prefer to compare options under each category and find the best accommodation.

Top hotels in Vienna

Hotels are travelers' go-to accommodations in Vienna for the unique experience they provide. Besides offering basic amenities, many hotels in Vienna provide meals and extras, such as shuttle services, spa facilities, tour desks, and other services. But because not all hotels in Vienna are created equal, finding the best in the city often requires careful research. For your convenience, we've done all the research to make it easier for you to check out all the top hotels in Vienna.

Ambassador offers the most luxurious rooms and is perfect for travelers looking for the ultimate 5-star hotel experience in Vienna. If comfort, convenience, and affordability are your non-negotiables, check out Superbude Wien Prater, the top 4-star hotel in the city.

Below is our hand-picked list of the best hotels in Vienna. Travelers are encouraged to book early, as these hotels quickly reach capacity. Click the arrows or swipe the list to see each hotel's ratings, reviews, locations, rates, and more. You can read detailed descriptions of each hotel in Vienna by clicking the cards.

Find

All Hotels in Vienna

See more

Search for accommodation in Vienna

Use the Accommodation Search tool below to find available stays in the city of Vienna on specific dates. This handy feature also allows you to compare prices and amenities.

Enter the preferred check-in and check-out dates. Then, select the number of guests and rooms. Click the Search button to find all the available hotels and places to stay in the city of Vienna that match the information provided.

Car rentals in Vienna

Photo of Alte Hofburg, Vienna, Austria.

Experience the freedom and convenience of a self-drive vacation by renting a car in Vienna for your adventures. Vienna has 13 car rental companies ready to provide you with the perfect vehicle for your travels.

Automatic cars for rent in Vienna start at 35 EUR per day or 247 EUR per week. The cheapest automatic rental car is a Smart For Two Automatic.

If you prefer driving a manual car, you’ll find multiple options for rent in Vienna, starting at 21 EUR per day or 147 EUR per week. The cheapest manual rental car is a Hyundai I10.

Learn more about the different types of cars you can rent in Vienna, Austria, below.

Popular types of cars for rent in Vienna

Discover and choose from our broad range of popular car rental options in the city of Vienna to find the best car for your travel plans. All car rentals come with CDW insurance for added protection throughout your trip.

Renting a car in Austria is a popular choice among travelers who want to explore the country at their own pace.

This car is particularly popular among couples and solo travelers touring the city of Vienna.

Check out all the options available and book your car rental in Vienna for your upcoming adventures in Austria below.

Search for car rentals in Vienna

Get ready to hit the road and explore the beautiful city of Vienna. Find the best deals on a variety of popular car rentals in Vienna, Austria, or any other destination in Europe by using the search tool below.

Enter your pick-up and drop-off location, driver's age, and dates. Click the green button to view your options.

Transportation in Vienna

Vienna, the capital of Austria, offers a variety of efficient and convenient transportation options. The city's public transportation system is one of the most comprehensive in the world, comprising buses, trams, and the U-Bahn (underground subway). Wiener Linien operates these services with frequent intervals, making it easy for tourists to navigate the city.

Taxis are another reliable option, available 24/7, with Taxify and Uber being popular choices. For those preferring to drive, various car rental companies like Sixt, Europcar and Hertz provide a range of vehicles to choose from.

Vienna also offers unique transportation experiences. You can enjoy a leisurely ride in a Fiaker, a traditional horse-drawn carriage, to explore the city's historic center. Or take a trip on the Riesenrad, an iconic Ferris wheel, for a panoramic view of the city. Lastly, renting a Citybike for a self-guided tour is a popular option, with numerous pick-up and drop-off stations across Vienna.

Popular destinations to visit after Vienna

Photo of beautiful view of famous Naturhistorisches Museum (Natural History Museum) with park and sculpture in Vienna.

The city of Vienna is just one of the many unique and scenic destinations you can visit in Austria. So if you're itching for another cultural adventure, a relaxing road trip, an action-filled city break, or a memorable weekend getaway, know that Austria has it all.

Each destination in Austria offers something unique to experience! Take the opportunity to visit other captivating places in Austria that are as magical as the city of Vienna. The most popular travel destinations in Austria are listed below. Click on the name of the place you want to explore next to learn more about it.

All the best destinations in Austria

When unsure about where to go next, use the map below. This map shows the locations of all the best destinations in Austria. Use the map to plan your trip and find the best routes.

Domestic flights from Vienna

Photo of tourist stands near St. Stephen's Cathedral on Stefansplatz and enjoys the views of the main attractions of the city, Vienna.

Experience the authentic charm of Austria by expanding your travels beyond the boundaries of Vienna. Explore other destinations around Austria with a domestic flight. A domestic flight is typically a short-haul flight, with the longest duration not exceeding two hours. To find the best flights from Vienna to other amazing locations in Austria, add the required details below and select 'Search' to view the best domestic flights in Austria for your chosen dates. You can also jump to the last section of this travel guide to find the most popular domestic flights from Vienna.

Popular domestic flights from Vienna

Travelers in Austria can catch flights to domestic airports in Klagenfurt. Domestic flights in Austria are operated by 6 airlines, including Wizz Air Malta, Ryanair, Iberia Airlines, Vueling, and Jet2. There are around 2 scheduled flight routes operating to Vienna on a weekly basis.

From Vienna, travelers can book scheduled flights to 1 domestic destinations. The most popular flights from Vienna depart to many top-rated destinations in Austria and are offered by Wizz Air Malta, Ryanair, and Iberia Airlines.

Search domestic flights from Vienna

Traveling to another city or region in Austria? Use the flight search tool below to quickly find the cheapest one-way or round-trip flights from Vienna to different local destinations.

Enter all the necessary information and click or tap on the Search button to see a list of the available domestic flights in Austria on the selected dates.

Link to appstore phone
Install Europe’s biggest travel app

Download Europe’s biggest travel marketplace to your phone to manage your entire trip in one place

Scan this QR code with your phone camera and press the link that appears to add Europe’s biggest travel marketplace into your pocket. Enter your phone number or email address to receive an SMS or email with the download link.