Vienna Attractions - What is the most interesting to see first, photo
If you want to cover all the main and significant sights of Vienna, it would be a smart decision to turn to an experienced guide. However, if you prefer to travel independently, our article will help you choose what is worth seeing in Vienna first.
What to see in Vienna first
Guides in the capital of Austria are always popular, as many of the best sights of the country are concentrated here. If you decide to travel without an escort, start by visiting the following iconic places in Vienna.
Schönbrunn Palace
This Viennese landmark has deservedly been awarded the title of one of the most beautiful palace and park ensembles in Europe. In addition, it is the largest architectural object in the Austrian Baroque style. Inside the complex there are fountains, green labyrinths, a botanical garden and the oldest zoo in Europe. Don't know what to visit in Vienna in one day with children? Schönbrunn is your best choice. No photo or description can convey all its majestic beauty.
Belvedere
If you are interested in where the current heads of state live, go on a tour of this landmark of Vienna. Locals often call it the "Austrian Versailles". Here you can see unique collections of sculptures and paintings. The interior of the castle has been preserved in its original form, with original wall paintings, statues, frescoes and stucco. Belvedere is one of the best attractions for lovers of history and art. The surrounding area impresses with its three-level parks, waterfall, pools, statues and wrought-iron gates.
Hofburg Palace
Visiting the imperial residence is an unforgettable experience. These attractions are considered to be a reflection of the entire Austrian history. There are not only 19 palaces from different eras and many other buildings, but also magnificent parks where every tourist can take a walk. Some of the castle's halls are still used as the official residence of the country's president.
Vienna City Hall
Plan a whole day to visit this landmark of Vienna. It is noteworthy that it can be seen from afar thanks to the tower, which is more than a hundred meters high and is visible from almost any area of the capital. Every year, the City Hall hosts over 800 different events: concerts, festivals, shows. In order not to miss an interesting event, it is worth checking the schedule in advance. Perhaps your trip will coincide with some kind of special event? On the way to the City Hall, you will find other important sights of Vienna, such as the Federal Theatre, the University, the Parliament and the Opera House.
Liechtenstein Palace
The modern complex, which includes the garden and city palaces, houses exhibitions of works of art from the personal collection of the Liechtensteins, as well as paintings from the Biedermeier era. When booking a tour (necessarily in advance), you will have the opportunity to stroll through the magnificently decorated state rooms, decorated with walls made of natural silk, parquet floors made of selected types of wood and skillfully executed stucco ceilings. The impressive interior of the Liechtenstein Palace includes famous furniture by Michael Thone, products of the Imperial Porcelain Manufactory and fine engravings.
Vienna Opera
Local guides and tourists are unanimous: a visit to the Vienna State Opera is a must. We included it in our list not only because it is the largest opera house in Austria, but also because of the regular premieres of world masterpieces. Even if you are not interested in the performances, a tour of the theater will allow you to look behind the scenes and appreciate the building in all its glory.
The Austrian Parliament Building
The Federal and National Councils meet in the parliament building. The building's architectural appearance is stylized as an antique temple in the Greek Revival style. At the foot of the impressive ramp, created by the architect Theophil Hansen, there is a fountain with a sculpture of Athena, the goddess of wisdom. This place is a must-see for architecture lovers.
Royal Burgtheater
Not far from the Town Hall there is an ancient theater, which can be visited both on a tour and as a spectator. Here you can take tours of the halls decorated with sculptures and portraits of famous actors, and you can also buy tickets to performances and enjoy theatrical art.
Lichtenstein Castle
The architectural structure, reminiscent of a fairy-tale castle, takes you back to the atmosphere of knightly times. Built in 1135, this castle is surrounded by a picturesque forest and offers its guests a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the medieval era.
Hundertwasser House
One of the most unusual buildings in Vienna is a structure with a bright façade created by the famous Austrian artist. You do not need to pay for the inspection, because this building is a residential complex. Within its walls are apartments, offices, shops and even play areas. Inside, there are both public and private terraces, and the winter garden is decorated with shrubs and trees, creating a unique atmosphere.
Vienna Philharmonic
Continuing with the theme of musical attractions in Vienna, we cannot fail to mention the Philharmonic Orchestra. Its performance of works by such masters as Mozart, Strauss and Beethoven is recognized as the best not only in Austria, but throughout the world. Annual New Year's concerts are broadcast on national television channels. The Philharmonic building, designed for 1,740 seats, also attracts attention with its architecture and luxurious interior.
Karlskirche Church
The height of the temple exceeds 70 meters, and its fame has spread thanks to its exquisite columns, painted walls and dome, which can be seen from distant points of the city. The complex includes pavilions and a portico with a pediment in the Greek style. The main building is distinguished by a variety of architectural elements, among which you can find features of the Byzantine, Islamic, Roman and ancient Greek schools.
Kreuzenstein Castle
Another historical building worthy of your attention. You can see it in person or through the film "Season of the Witch", where it is presented in all its glory.
St. Peter's Church
This majestic Baroque building was built by order of Emperor Leopold I and is open to visitors every day. Designed by Italian masters, the temple is one of the most capacious religious buildings in the world. The Pope can often be heard speaking in the adjacent square. Among the relics kept here are the Spear of Longinus, which, according to legend, pierced Christ, and the relics of St. John Chrysostom.
St. Stephen's Cathedral
The modern complex, which includes the garden and city palaces, houses exhibitions of works of art from the personal collection of the Liechtensteins, as well as paintings from the Biedermeier era. When booking a tour (necessarily in advance), you will have the opportunity to stroll through the magnificently decorated ceremonial halls, decorated with walls made of natural silk, parquet floors made of select types of wood and skillfully executed stucco ceilings. The impressive interior of the Liechtenstein Palace includes famous furniture by Michael Thone, products of the Imperial Porcelain Manufactory and exquisite engravings.
The architectural structure, reminiscent of a fairy-tale castle, takes you back to the atmosphere of knightly times. Built in 1135, this castle is surrounded by a picturesque forest and gives its guests a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the medieval era.
Another historical building worthy of your attention. You can see it in person or through the film "Season of the Witch", where it is presented in all its glory.
The largest Catholic church in the country continues to perform its religious functions, and it is here that the Archbishop of Vienna sits. For those interested in panoramic views of the city, it is recommended to climb the tower of the cathedral. And if you have already enjoyed the views from above, be sure to pay attention to the interior of the cathedral, built in the Gothic style back in 1340.
Votivkirche Church
Another impressive Roman Catholic cathedral in the neo-Gothic style, located near the main university of Vienna. This temple will be an excellent choice for those who are interested in architectural monuments and wondering what to visit in the capital. It is worth noting that the church is still active today, and everyone can enter, even during masses and other religious and cultural events.
Vienna City Park
What is worth visiting in Vienna to relax after long walks? We recommend an old park with numerous sculptures, rose bushes (more than 400 varieties), a picturesque pond and winding paths. This park, surrounded by greenery, is ideal for family walks. Its spacious areas often host open-air concerts and other cultural events.
Mozart's House Museum
The great composer Mozart spent several years of his life here and created the famous opera "The Marriage of Figaro". In the museum dedicated to him, you will find his personal belongings and the restored furnishings of those times. You will learn more about the life of the genius and the conditions in which he created his masterpieces.
Cafe Sacher
If you are looking for where to try Austrian cuisine, you should definitely visit the famous Cafe Sacher. This legendary establishment is famous not only for its excellent coffee, but also for the legendary Sacher cake. The café is located in one of the most prestigious hotels in Vienna, and its interior fully corresponds to the high status of the establishment: marble floors, expensive upholstered furniture, red velvet walls, luxurious chandeliers made of Bohemian crystal and huge mirrors create a unique atmosphere.
Ringstrasse Street
Are you interested in what you can see in Vienna for free? Pay attention to one of the most picturesque boulevards of the city, where majestic monuments, green parks, palaces, Parliament, the Opera House, as well as historical museums and the Museum of Art History are located. This boulevard is a real find for those who want to enjoy the architecture and culture of the capital without spending a cent. In addition, here you will see the most luxurious hotels in Vienna.
Vienna Attractions: What Else to Visit in Vienna
If you have time left, spend it visiting a few more important cultural sites. Among them, it is worth highlighting:
Albertina Gallery
An art gallery that contains more than 65,000 drawings and about a million graphic works. Here everyone will find something to their liking: from masterpieces of modern painting to works of late Gothic.
Tower of the Mad
An unusual museum, located in a cylindrical building, is part of the Museum of Natural History. Historically, this building was used as a hospital for the mentally ill, and today it contains creepy exhibits: brains, dissected bodies and pickled babies. The collection includes about 4,000 objects in total.
Kunsthistorisches Museum and the Museum of Natural History
The Kunsthistorisches Museum is located opposite the Museum of Natural History, and both are housed in buildings designed in the same style. These buildings are decorated with elegant sculptures, stucco, arched windows, and majestic columns. Between the museums there is a green park with cozy paths, statues and fountains, creating an atmosphere for pleasant walks.
Leopold Museum
Another unique place is a museum specializing in Austrian Art Nouveau and Expressionism. Its building has a simple parallelepiped shape and is finished in white shell rock, reflecting a minimalist style that contrasts with the rich interior content.
Sigmund Freud Museum
A museum dedicated to the life and work of Sigmund Freud. Here you can see his office where he worked, a library with 35,000 books on psychoanalysis, as well as his personal belongings and antique collection.
Vienna Woods
The Vienna Woods will enchant you with its natural beauty. Here you can sunbathe in the flowering meadows, pick mushrooms and berries, or enjoy the views from the observation decks. There is a small cafe in the forest where you can take a break. This forest was a favorite place for Freud and Kafka to relax, and you can finish your walk by visiting the nearby ancient monastery with arched vaults.
Prater Park
The recreation and amusement park, where there are about 250 rides, including the famous Ferris Wheel, is a popular place for family leisure. Large-scale festivals and celebrations are often held here, and there are bicycle paths and picnic areas among the greenery, creating an atmosphere of peace and comfort.
House of the Sea
The recreation and entertainment park, where there are about 250 attractions, including the famous Ferris Wheel, is a popular place for family leisure. Large-scale festivals and celebrations are often held here, and there are bicycle paths and picnic areas among the greenery, creating an atmosphere of peace and comfort.
This complex also has a zoo, a terrarium and an oceanarium. The upper floors offer an impressive view of Vienna, and the 3,500 square meter area is home to a huge number of exotic animals living in conditions as close as possible to their natural environment. Tens of thousands of representatives of the fauna can be seen here. The exhibits on the upper floors tell about the tower's military past and its role in history.
Danube Tower
Lovers of breathtaking views can go to the observation deck of a high-rise building in the Danube Park. It offers a stunning panorama of Vienna, and in clear weather you can see up to 80 kilometers away.
Schönbrunn Zoo
The zoo has about 8.5 thousand animals representing about 700 species. Each species lives in an individual enclosure with its own pool and resting areas. On a vast territory of 17 hectares there is a lake for waterfowl. In one of the central pavilions, the imperial family of Franz Stephan, the founder of this zoo, once dined. Here you can meet bears, lions, penguins, sea lions and many other species of animals, which makes this place truly unique.
We at TurPoisk hope that you will be able to choose those attractions in Vienna that best suit your interests. This city will definitely not leave you indifferent. Do not forget to also check out the attractions of other cities for further inspiration for your trip to Austria.
