Vienna’s art museums
The Albertina Museum is the largest museum in Central Europe for modern art. Delve into an extensive collection of art spanning from the Renaissance to contemporary periods. Highlights include works by Dürer, Michelangelo, Monet, Picasso, and Warhol, displayed within a stunning Baroque palace. For even more art, walk just a few minutes to the Kunsthistorisches Museum (Museum of Art History). It has an extensive collection of European art, including masterpieces by Vermeer, Rembrandt, Raphael, and Caravaggio.
Schönbrunn Palace
A trip to Vienna is not complete without a visit to this UNESCO World Heritage Site, which was once the summer residence of the Habsburg emperors. Schönbrunn Palace is basically the Austrian Versailles and the amount of wealth and influence displayed in the opulent rooms and vast gardens is staggering. The Gloriette has panoramic views of the Vienna skyline, so don’t miss it!
Make an entire day of your palace visit by heading to Schönbrunn Zoo. Aside from being the oldest zoo in the world, it's also one of the best in Europe and one of only a handful with giant pandas!
Vienna’s Hundertwasserhaus
Have you had enough of the Baroque, Renaissance, and Medieval architecture? Have no fear, Vienna even has more abstract buildings for all tastes. Admire the whimsical architecture of the Hundertwasser House, designed by artist Friedensreich Hundertwasser.
This colorful, unconventional building has uneven floors, uneven windows, and a lush rooftop garden. The bottom floor is open to visitors so you can have an ice cream and try not to get dizzy as you walk on the sloping floors and see the quirky painted walls!
Vienna’s Naschmarkt
Hungry yet? Explore over 100 stalls offering fresh produce, spices, cheeses, and international delicacies at the Naschmarkt, Vienna's largest and most popular open-air market.
Take a short trip to the Vienna Woods (Wienerwald)
If you’ve had enough of the city, take a short day trip outside of Vienna to immerse yourself in nature at the Vienna Woods. This picturesque forested reserve has trails for hiking, cycling, picnicking, and visiting charming villages and wine taverns in the region.
Christmas markets in Vienna
It's worth planning a trip to Vienna (and Salzburg) just for the Christmas markets. Renowned worldwide for their enchanting atmosphere, traditional charm, and festive delights, these markets can be found all over Central Europe and typically begin in mid-November and continue until Christmas Eve.
One of the most famous Christmas markets in Vienna is the Christkindlmarkt at Rathausplatz, located in front of the majestic Vienna City Hall (Rathaus). Here, you can wander through rows of festively decorated stalls selling a wide array of goods. Pick out handmade artisan crafts, Christmas decorations, traditional toys, and gifts for your loved ones.
The market is illuminated by thousands of twinkling lights, creating a whimsical setting for you to enjoy mulled wine (Glühwein), roasted chestnuts, and other seasonal treats. You can also enjoy live music performances and cultural events in this elegant setting. Just remember to bundle up!