1 day trip vienna

One Day in a City

24 Hour Travel Itineraries to Make the Most of a Day in a Destination

The Ultimate One Day in Vienna: Must-Have Itinerary for Visiting Vienna in 24 Hours

November 11, 2023 By Gina Posts on this site may contain affiliate links. Read the full disclosure here .

The Best Things to See and Do in Vienna in One Day

Short on time in Vienna? This super detailed and helpful 1-day Vienna itinerary is here to help.

I love Vienna…the alluring blend of art, music, and grandeur of the buildings gives it a different feel from other major European cities. While I think everyone should spend multiple days in Vienna, sometimes that just isn’t possible, and one day in Vienna is of course better than zero days. So if you find yourself with the opportunity to visit this city, even just for 24 hours – go!

To make that easier for you, I’ve created this detailed One Day in Vienna itinerary so you can keep yourself from feeling overwhelmed about filtering through the things to do and choosing what to see while in Vienna. I’ve included “One Day” tips for each recommended site to help you maximize your time. In addition, there are sites and things to do under the “Modified Itinerary” section that is more interest-specific depending on your favorite things to see and do while traveling. Here’s a quick breakdown of what you’ll find in this article: – Best Time to Visit Vienna – One Day in Vienna Itinerary Outline -Detailed 24-Hour Itinerary – Where to Stay -Itinerary Modification Ideas – Where to Eat – Getting Around Vienna

Here’s an infographic for you, too, to get a visual idea of your day before reading the itinerary.

Best Time to Visit Vienna

Depending on your interests, July and August may not be the ideal time for you to visit. During those months the famous Vienna Opera House is closed as the musicians are on vacation. While other performances in stunning old Viennese buildings still happen, those who have their heart set on seeing an opera in the Vienna Opera House should aim to visit during a different month than July or August.

In addition, those who are looking forward to seeing the famed Lipizzaner horses of the Spanish Riding School in all their glory should note that horses get vacation, too, and during July and August they are on a farm in the country – though shows featuring some of the younger, not yet fully trained horses (and foals) are still conducted.

Vienna in a Day Itinerary Outline

Here is an outline of the itinerary and then I’ll get into the details for each thing to do in Vienna below:

Time needed:  1 day

One Day in Vienna Recommended Itinerary

Start your day by heading out of the city center to tour the elegantly impressive Schönbrunn Palace and grounds.

See the City Hall of Vienna and learn more about Austria’s government.

Experience the wonders of Lipizzaner stallions at this one-of-a-kind show.

A stately palace located right in the city center of Vienna.

Tour a house where Mozart lived and learn more about the famous composer.

See the ornate grandeur of this iconic opera house.

If you’re a museum person, choose one to visit in this museum-focused neighborhood of Vienna.

An incredible cathedral right in the heart of the city.

A bonus architectural masterpiece to see if time allows.

Also in this guide are tips on where and what to eat in Vienna, hotel recommendations, Vienna’s cafe culture info, and what to pack for your one day in Vienna.

For the optimal itinerary to experience a wide range of Vienna in a short amount of time – and especially for those who are visiting Vienna for the first time, I’ve put together a recommended itinerary of how you should spend your day in Vienna (modified itinerary recommendations depending on your special interests are listed afterward).

Schönbrunn Palace

Though it’s a bit of a trek to get to, Schönbrunn Palace is still a must to make time to see even if short on time in Vienna. Schönbrunn Palace was the summer residence of the Habsburgs in Vienna and it’s an elegant, stately masterpiece to behold.

Schönbrunn Palace was the summer residence of the Habsburgs in Vienna. After the original palace that stood on the grounds was destroyed in 1683, a hunting lodge was put up instead. The hunting lodge stayed until Maria Theresa rose to power; she had the lodge reconstructed into the glorious Schönbrunn Palace and spent summers there. Her servants numbered in the hundreds and the buildings and grounds of Schönbrunn reflect that as there had to be enough space for her servants to live there, too.

One thing you’ll note of Schönbrunn Palace is how warm the coloring of the palace feels. That also is thanks to Maria Theresa who had the palace decorated in walnut paneling with plenty of ornate touches and décor in predominately browns and reds.

In addition to the overall décor and ambiance of Schönbrunn Palace, other notable palace rooms include:

Bedchamber: The bed in this room was where Emperor Franz Josef (who ruled from 1848 to his death in 1916 and was the great-great-grandson of Maria Theresa) died and a painting of him on his deathbed is located in the room. You can also see his grooming tool, which is still the original.

Lavatory of Franz Josef: Note that this is not very elaborate compared to other rooms in Schönbrunn Palace (and most other palaces from the time period) as Franz Josef lived a very frugal lifestyle.

Dressing Room: This room is impressive to behold as it includes a mannequin with an example of Sisi’s hair (Sisi was the nickname of Empress Elisabeth, the beloved wife of Franz Josef), which was so long it reached her ankles. It took hours for servants to do her hair each day.

Bedroom of Franz Josef and Elisabeth: Decorated in beautiful blues and greens.

Family Dining Room: Franz Josef often ate here and enjoyed traditional dishes for special occasions, like Wiener Schnitzel. Sisi rarely joined him in this room as she didn’t eat much in order to retain her figure.

Children’s Room: Here you’ll see the pictures of Maria Theresa’s 11 daughters, all of whom were married off for political reasons except one: Maria Christine. It was well known that Maria Christine was Maria Theresa’s favorite daughter and she was the only one allowed to marry for love.

Mirror Room: Used for family celebrations and small concerts. A notable fact about this room is that Mozart gave a performance in it at the age of 6 in 1762.

Great Gallery: This long room was used for ballrooms, receptions, and banquets. It has excellent examples of rococo art, including frescoes depicting the glorification of the Maria Theresa reign.

Chinese Cabinets: Maria Theresa loved Asian art and these small, beautiful rooms served as a place for card playing and meetings, including secret ones that Maria Theresa would have with her most trusted advisors.

Carousel Room: Has a large painting of the Ladies’ Carousel held by Maria Theresa at a winter riding school after the War of the Austrian Succession as a celebration of the recapture of Prague. Maria Theresa is riding a Lipizzaner horse in the painting.

The Grounds of Schönbrunn Palace also have sights you can’t miss:

Garden Maze: The maze, of which there are three interconnected ones, takes about 30 minutes to walk through and opens up to the playground, making Schönbrunn Palace an ideal place to visit in Vienna with kids. One Day Tip: If you don’t have kids, skip the maze unless you absolutely love mazes – there are other sights to see in Vienna that you should be spending your day visiting.

Walking Paths: There are several walking paths to get from the palace up to the Gloriette, an open-air structure that is the highest point on the grounds and provides amazing views of the city of Vienna. You can opt for paths that wind through the woods or open paths zigzagging up the hill along prettily planted flowers and bushes.

Café Gloriette: After doing the slightly strenuous walk up the hill to the Gloriette, take a quick break to enjoy a Schokochino at Café Gloriette. The Schokochino is thick, creamy, frothy coffee goodness with a hint of chocolate flavor. It comes topped with whipped cream, but it’s not sweet; instead, the chocolate just adds to the creaminess of the drink.

Schönbrunn Palace Quick Facts Address: Schönbrunner Schlossstrasse 47 Metro: Schönbrunn (U4 Line) Hours: April 1 – June 30 and September 1 – October 31, 8:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.; July 1 – August 31, 8:30 a.m. – 6:30 p.m.; November 1 – March 31, 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. Phone: 43 1 811 13 0 Cost: Adults, €11.50; Children (ages 6-18), €8.50; Students (ages 19-25 with International Student ID), €10.50. (These ticket prices are for the Imperial Tour. The Grand Tour, which includes the rooms of Maria Theresa, costs a few euros more, and the Classic Pass is several euros on top of that, which also includes access to the Crown Prince Garden, the maze, and Gloriette – all of these can also be bought separately later on during your time at the palace.) Note: If you bring a backpack or large purse you will need to check it. One Day Tip: Opt for the Imperial Palace tour, which takes about 40 minutes and includes the opulent state rooms and private apartments of Franz Joseph and Sisi. Allow yourself an additional 40 to 60 minutes for walking around the grounds. Also, try to visit Schönbrunn Palace first thing in the morning before the crowds get really thick. You’ll be able to tour it faster and then have the rest of the day to explore the other can’t-miss sites of Vienna.

Rathaus is the city hall of Vienna and is the seat of the mayor plus houses the city council. It was built in 1883 and is an example of Historicism architecture, which blends historic architect styles of the past with a new style that is all its own.

The tower is the most reminiscent of a specific architecture style thanks to its Gothic look. While visiting Rathaus, be sure to look for the Rathausmann, a knight sculpture atop the tower which stands guard over the city. The Rathaus Tower is accessible via 331 steps which take you up spiral staircases to a landing with great views of Vienna, but if you only have one day in Vienna you may want to skip making this trek unless you really want the photo op.

Spanish Riding School

The Spanish Riding School is where the famous Lipizzaner stallions and their riders are trained. The Lipizzaner horses have been bred for the past 200 years and the Spanish Riding School preserves classical equitation, which works to create the perfect harmony between horse and rider.

The Lipizzaner stallions are bred to be the perfect mount for classical horsemanship and for carriage-pulling. A carriage pulled by four horses is considered to be the utmost in carriage driving. The two horses in front are elite and lead the carriage, while the two in back are the pull horses – they provide the strength. These horses must be impeccably trained and must readily respond to the sound of the driver’s voice. Witnessing this type of carriage pulling at the Spanish Riding School gives you an excellent example of the training and elegance the Spanish Riding School is known for.

While at the Spanish Riding School, you’ll also learn about how the horses are selected to be in the performances. It starts with the breeding. Broodmares are specifically chosen to continue strong lines and the foals of the broodmares signify ancestry and character. As foals, they must prove they can learn the appropriate skills and then at six months they are weaned.

The horses learn very early to lift their feet (you’ll see why this is important during a performance at the Spanish Riding School) and are groomed daily so they immediately feel comfortable with humans. At one year the male foals are separated from their mothers and spend the summer in the mountains for training. The rest of the year, these talented stallions perform around the world, including at the Spanish Riding School, where you’ll feel like you’ve been transported back into the Renaissance era while watching a performance.

Spanish Riding School Quick Facts Address: The Visitor Center is at Michaelerplatz 1, which is adjacent to the Spanish Riding School arena. Metro: Herengasse (U3 Line) Phone: 43 1 533 90 31 Hours: Visitor Center hours are open Monday – Saturday 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. (and 7 p.m. on Fridays when there is a performance). Performance times and days can vary depending on the time of year though typically there is a performance at 11 a.m. on days when the Spanish Riding School is performing. Cost: Tickets range from €8 to €130 depending on show type and seating area. Reserving your ticket in advance is highly recommended and can be done so at www.srs.at. One Day Tip: This is one place you’ll want to arrive at least 15 minutes early as you’ll have to get in one line to pick up your tickets (at the Visitor Center) then get into another line to get into the arena. Also, to save time, plan on seeing Hofburg Palace before or after the Spanish Riding School performance as the arena is located on the property of Hofburg Palace.

Hofburg Palace

The Spanish Riding School is located in Hofburg Palace, which also is worthy of some of your time in Vienna.

Hofburg Palace, also referred to as the Imperial Palace, has been the home of many members of Austrian royalty, like the Habsburgs, and is still lived in today by the President of Austria plus is the location of the offices for the ministers of the chancellor’s office and the secretaries of state.

During the rule of the Habsburg family, Hofburg Palace served as the center of the Holy Roman Empire as well as the seat of the government and its administration. While visiting Vienna, you can just walk around the Hofburg Palace complex to see its array of different architecture, ranging from Neoclassical to Baroque due to constant expansion over 600 years.

If you’re worried about time, you can quickly walk around the Hofburg Palace complex to see its array of different architecture, ranging from Neoclassical to Baroque. However, if you’re a big fan of Emperor Elisabeth or love old palace décor, you may want to make time to visit Hofburg Palace’s two onsite museums: the Sisi museum (Sisi was Empress Elisabeth’s nickname) and the Imperial rooms of the palace.

Sisi Museum

The Sisi Museum located in Hofburg Palace is a museum dedicated to Empress Elizabeth, who became a beloved icon of Austria during her reign in the 19th century and was mostly called by her nickname, Sisi. Married to Emperor Franz Joseph I and known for her elaborate hairdos and fashion, Sisi loved the finer things in life while also rebelling against the royal life. The museum focuses on her life as a young girl in Bavaria to her life as the Empress of Austria, including her love for traveling and riding horses, to her assassination in 1898 as well her inner conflict of being in the public eye. The Museum of Sisi also houses some of her personal artifacts, including some of her elaborate fashion from that era, and the best paintings of her. 

Imperial Rooms

Though most rooms of Hofburg Palace are still used for governmental purposes, the Imperial Rooms are open to the public and can be toured to get a glimpse of life as it was during the Habsburg era. During your time in the Imperial Rooms, you’ll learn more about the Habsburg family and how they lived as Hofburg Palace served as the winter residence of the Habsburgs for over 600 years. The Imperial Rooms include the apartments of Franz Joseph and Sisi, which includes bedrooms, exercise rooms and dressing rooms, still decorated as they would have been in the 19 th century.

Hofburg Palace Quick Tips Address: Innerer Burghof Phone: 43 1 533 75 70 Metro: Herrengasse (U3 Line) Hours: September – June, 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.; July – August, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Cost: Adults, €11.50; Children ages 6 – 18, €7; Students ages 19 – 25, €10.50. Includes Sisi Museum and Imperial Rooms plus an audio guide; tours with a human guide costs €2 more, last 55 minutes, and are offered daily at 2 p.m. One Day Tip: If short on time, just walk around the grounds open to the public and skip a museum unless you’re very interested in learning more about Sisi or enjoy historic architecture. You’ll learn a bit about her during the audio tour at Schönbrunn Palace and the Imperial Rooms are also similar in style to what you’ll see at Schönbrunn Palace.

Vienna State Opera & Musical Performance

Now we’re onto the music part of your time in Vienna.

The musical side of Vienna is one you cannot miss experiencing during your one day in Vienna.

The Vienna State Opera is Vienna’s most famous musical landmark and you should at least walk by it to take in its beautiful ornate architecture and see the stars of composers lining the ground – a more sophisticated version of Hollywood’s Walk of Fame.

The Vienna State Opera (Wiener Staatsoper in German) is Vienna’s premier opera house and one of the most famous opera houses in the world. The Vienna State Opera opened in 1869 after careful designing for optimum sound by architect August Sicard von Sicardsburg. Starting with the performance of Mozart’s Don Juan, the Vienna State Opera has had a long history of incredible performances.

The sound engineering of Vienna State Opera got an updated overhaul in the 1940s after tragic bombings were inflicted to the building by the Nazis during World War II. The opera house was painstakingly rebuilt and reopened in 1955.

After being the place of persecution during World War II under the Nazi regime when many members of the opera house were driven out of Vienna or killed during the war and when most musical works of art were not allowed to be played, the rebuilding of the Vienna State Opera was symbolic of the rebuilding of Vienna and its new independence after the war.

Visitors to Vienna can opt to take a guided tour of the Vienna State Opera to learn more about the history and present day operations of the beloved institution. Inside the opera house, look for these elements while touring the famous building:

Frescoes: The famous “Zauberflöten” (meaning Magic Flute) series of frescoes on the veranda of Vienna State Opera. These frescoes were painted by Moritz von Schwind, a prominent artist of the era.

The Grand Staircase: Gorgeous to behold and one of the few parts of the opera house that was spared damage during the World War II bombings.

Schwind Foyer: Also spared during bombings, this ornate foyer has a beautiful frescoed ceiling, painted by Moritz von Schwind, a Vienna-born painter.

Performance Hall: This is where the musical magic happens. The Performance Hall of the Vienna State Opera is considered one of the best concert halls in the world for a reason: not only is it a gorgeous circular space, the design of the hall creates beautiful sounding acoustics.

The guided tour also provides access to the State Opera Museum, which is open Tuesday through Sunday and includes information and artifacts about performers who have wielded their talents at the Vienna State Opera House, as well as the history of the museum.

Vienna State Opera Quick Facts Address: Opernring 2 Metro: Karlsplatz (U1, U2, or U4 Line) Phone: 43 1 514 44 78 80 Hours: Tour times vary by day and time of year. Check here for tour times on the day you want to visit. For a guaranteed tour of the stage area as well, opt for the 10 a.m. tour on Sunday. Also note that on Mondays the State Opera Museum is closed so is not included in the tour. Cost: Adults: €6.50; Seniors 65 and older, €5.50; Students, €3.50. Tickets are €1.50 less on Mondays when the State Opera Museum is closed. One Day Tip: The guided tour lasts 40 minutes. Give yourself more time to see other Vienna sites during the day by visiting the Vienna Opera House at night while taking in a performance. Tips on getting tickets to a performance can be found under the Nightlife section of this guide.

One Night Tip: If you can, see a show at the Vienna State Opera, but don’t worry if it’s sold out or you’re there in July and August during its hiatus as there are plenty of other wonderful places to hear music in Vienna, including my favorite, the Musikverein where you can see the Vienna Mozart Orchestra perform in historical costumes and wigs. The musical shows are often in the evening and make a good ending to your day in Vienna.

But before you get to the evening part of your day in Vienna, there are still other sites to see, including additional musical ones, like the Mozart House…

Mozart House

One of the most famous residents of Vienna’s past is the composer, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. In 1781, at the age of 25, Mozart moved to Vienna after giving up his teaching position in Salzburg. He spent the most profitable years of his life in Vienna in the apartment now known as the Mozart House, which you can tour during your time in Vienna.

During the tour of the Mozart House, you’ll see important memorabilia from Mozart’s time on this earth, including some of his musical compositions, pictures of him and his wife, and his death announcement. You’ll also learn about his family, his gambling issues, his aristocratic connections and love for the finer things in life, how he made money as an “avant-garde free musician,” and his work for the Imperial Palace of Vienna.

You’ll also get a sense for how Mozart and other affluent people lived in the 18 th century as you walk through each room of the house.

Mozart House Quick Tips Address: Domgasse 5 Metro: Stephansplatz (U1 or U3 Line) Phone: 43 1 512 17 91 Hours: Open daily, 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.; last admission at 6:30 p.m. Cost: Adults, €10; Children 14 years and younger, €3; Family Ticket (2 adults and up to 3 children), €20. Ticket includes an informative audio guide. One Day Tip: If you’re feeling short on time, choose the two rooms of most interest to you to listen to the audio guide. In the other rooms, scan the information cards and listen to the numbers that most interest you and skip the rest; this will help you get through Mozart House more quickly while still getting a large amount of history and information out of your experience.

St. Stephen’s Cathedral

If there’s one historic church you should see while in Vienna, it should be St. Stephen’s Cathedral.

St. Stephen’s Cathedral (referred to as Stephansdom in Vienna) combines Romanesque and Gothic architecture that blends together impressively as its prominent spire juts up from the city center. Construction on St. Stephen’s was started in the 12 th century (though it underwent extensive rebuilds after World War II) and since then has been a prominent landmark in central Vienna. The church is of Roman Catholic denomination and still holds weekly masses. While touring the church, take note of the following aspects:

The Pulpit: Carved in stone by Anton Pilgram, the impressive pulpit was built in the 1500s and is located under a soaring Gothic ceiling.

The Virgin’s Choir: This Baroque section of the church is home to the opulent Wiener Neustädter Altar, a winged altar depicting scenes from the life of the Virgin Mary and which dates back to 1447.

South Tower (Steffl): Head up the more than 340 steps to get to the top of this tower for glorious views of Vienna.

Catacombs: This is where some of the bodily remains of the Habsburgs are kept, including urns of their entrails. You’ll also see where bishops are buried. In addition, you’ll see creepy sights like a pile of bones left over from the Black Plague stacked up in the catacombs like firewood. The catacombs can only be seen through a guided tour.

St. Stephen’s Cathedral Quick Tips Address: Stephansplatz 3 Metro: Stephansplatz (U1 or U3 Line) Phone: 43 1 515 52 37 67 Cost and Hours: Walking around the cathedral on your own is free and can be done Monday – Saturday, 6 a.m. – 10 p.m. and Sunday, 7 a.m. – 10 p.m. Note that during mass you won’t be able to have as much free range to walk around. The catacombs and the towers require a fee to access with more limited hours: Catacomb Tour: Adults, €5; Children 14 years and under, €2; with tours leaving every 15 – 30 minutes Monday – Saturday from 10 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m. and Sundays from 1:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m. South Tower: Adults, €4; Children ages 6 -14, €1.50; tower is open Monday – Sunday 9 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.

MuseumsQuartier

The next place to soak up some museum wisdom is in Vienna’s Museum Quartier, one of the largest art and culture complexes in the world. The buildings that make up the MuseumsQuartier date back to the 18 th and 19 th century and are lovely to walk around as they are surrounded by creatively designed gardens and courtyards plus quaint cafes. Inside the buildings, you’ll find a multitude of impressive art collections. Museums include:

Leopold Museum – This museum is home to an impressive collection of Viennese pieces of art, with a highlight on Art Nouveau and Classical Modernism. Fans of Egon Schiele will also enjoy this museum as it has some of his most important works. Hours: Monday, Wednesday, Friday – Sunday, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.; Thursday, 10 a.m. – 9 p.m.; Tuesday, Closed. Cost: €12

museum moderner kunst stiftung ludwig wien (mumok) – Modern art lovers will enjoy the mumok museum (which writes its name lowercase) as it is the largest in central Europe for contemporary and modern art and has a wide range of international pieces. Hours: Monday, 2 p.m. – 7 p.m.; Wednesday and Friday – Sunday, 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.; Tuesday and Thursday, Closed. Cost: €10

Kunsthalle Wien – A visit here will delight you if you’re more into subjects than paintbrushes as it focuses on photography, video, and other forms of new media. Hours: Daily except Thursday, 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.; Thursday, 10 a.m. – 9 p.m. Cost: €12

Architekturzentrum Wien – This museum has an ever-changing exhibit featuring events and research related to contemporary architecture. Hours: Daily, 10 a.m. – 7 p.m. Cost: €7

Naturhistoriches Museum Vienna – With over 30 million artifacts and specimen housed under its roof, it’s no wonder the Naturhistoriches Museum Vienna, or Natural History Museum Vienna, is one of the most acclaimed natural history museums in the world. Originally founded in 1750 by Emperor Franz I Stephan of Lorraine, today the museum houses an array of famous and unique holdings. See the Venus of Willendorf, the skeletal remains of the extinct Stellar’s Sea Cow, or marvel at the dinosaur bones. You can also view the world’s largest meteorite collection while at the museum. Hours: Wednesday, 9 a.m. – 9 p.m.; Thursday – Monday, 9 a.m. – 6:30 p.m.; Tuesday, Closed. Cost: Adults, €10; Students under age 27, €5; Children under age 19 are free.

ZOOM Kindermuseum – This hands-on art and culture museum is designed just for kids and is great for families with young children visiting Vienna. Hours: Tuesday – Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 4 p.m.; Saturday – Sunday, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.; Monday, Closed. Cost: Free for exhibits; certain activities cost extra.

Kunsthistorisches Museum – The main collections of this museum are those of the Habsburgs, which makes sense as this museum was originally built to house the imperial collections. Since its opening in 1891, the Kunsthistorisches Museum has expanded its collections to include artwork from Egypt, the Greek and Roman Antiquities collection, and an impressive Picture Gallery that includes artwork from Rembrandt, Raphael, and Peter Paul Rubens. Cost: Adults, €14; Children under 19 are free. Hours: Monday – Wednesday and Friday – Sunday, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.; Thursday, 10 a.m. – 9 p.m.

The MuseumsQuartier is also home to dance theaters and venues for musical and theater performances.

MuseumsQuartier Quick Tips Address: Museumsplatz 1/5 Metro: Museumsquartier (U2 Line) Phone: 43 1 523 58 81 One Day Tip: Even if you’re not a museum person and don’t want to visit any of the museums of the MuseumsQuartier, it is still worth a visit to walk around and soak in the historic buildings and courtyards. If you don’t visit a museum, then check out other activities to fill your time under the Modified Itineraries section

Austrian National Library

Skip MuseumsQuartier and head to this museum instead if you’re a book lover. The Austrian National Library is the oldest library in Austria and houses over eight million books and historic artifacts, with some dating back to the 14 th century.

The Austrian National Library serves as a center for information and research, though visitors not researching an academic paper will still enjoy touring it and its onsite museums, where you can see the world’s largest papyrus collection, a collection of historic globes, the beautiful Baroque Hall of State, rare books, music manuscripts and opera texts, and much more.

Austrian National Library Quick Tips Address: Josefsplatz 1 Phone: 43 1 534 10 Metro: Herrengasse (U3 Line) Hours: Tuesday – Wednesday and Friday – Sunday, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.; Thursday, 10 a.m. – 9 p.m.; Closed Monday. Cost: Visitors have two different ticket options, which can be purchased together, depending on your interests: State Hall Only Ticket – Adults, €7; Children under 19 years old are free with purchase of adult ticket. Combi Ticket for the Esperanto, Globe, and Papyrus Museums – Adults, €4; Children under 19 years old are free with purchase of adult ticket.

If you’re into stately architecture and palaces you may want to try to squeeze one more stop into your one day in Vienna itinerary: the Belvedere.

The Belvedere consists of two 18 th century palaces, the Upper Belvedere and the Lower Belvedere, that are beautiful examples of Baroque architecture. Today, visitors can see the architecture up close while touring the museum exhibits located on the premises of the Belvedere palaces. The Upper Belvedere also has excellent views of Vienna – ideal for those looking for a good photo op of the city.

In the Upper Belvedere, you’ll have the chance to see incredible works of Austrian art, some of which date back to the Middle Ages. The museum also hosts contemporary Austria artworks.

The Lower Belvedere is still largely decorated in 18 th century décor and has many impressive rooms, including the Marble Hall, which has ceiling frescoes and other artwork on the walls, and the Marble Gallery, which has statues highlighted under scalloped arches.

The Belvedere also is adjacent to two other attractions. The first one is 21er Haus, a museum of contemporary art in an architecturally alluring building built in 1958 that has an exterior of steel and windows and which was incorporated into the Belvedere in 2002. The other extra attraction is the Winter Palace, which a baroque beauty that once served as the palace of Prince Eugene of Savoy and today is set up to showcase the baroque interior and collections of contemporary art.

Belvedere Quick Tips Address: Prinz Eugen-Straße 27 Metro: Hauptbahnhof (U1 Line) Phone: 43 1 795 57 134 Hours: Daily, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. (Lower Belvedere is open until 9 p.m. on Wednesday. 21er Haus is open until 9 p.m. on Wednesday and Thursday and closed on Monday and Tuesday.) Cost: Upper Belvedere: €12.50; Lower Belvedere: €11; Upper and Lower Belvedere: €22.50; Upper/Lower Belvedere and 21er Haus: €22.50; Upper/Lower Belvedere, 21er Haus, and Winter Palace: €30. (Prices listed are for adults, kids 18 and younger are free.)

Where to Sleep in Vienna

Vienna has a variety of places to stay from B&Bs to 5-star luxury. Vienna is not known for being affordable for travelers, but it’s worth it to splurge a bit with your budget to stay in the city center.

Top Pick B&B:  Aviano Boutique Hotel

Aviano is located about as centrally as you can get in Vienna’s stately and opulent downtown area and is one of the best values in the city. As a result of its location, you might expect lots of people and an urban atmosphere and while that certainly applies to everything surrounding the Viennese building that Aviano Boutique Hotel feels like a calm oasis. The second the small elevator opens onto the upper floor of the building Aviano is located in, you’ll enter a peaceful B&B.

The dining area has an old-fashioned, romantic vibe that is a perfect place to start your day with the delicious complimentary breakfast in beautiful Vienna. Inside the rooms, small touches prevail. Though there is no air conditioning (a caveat of staying in an older building) fans are placed in the rooms to keep it cool during the summer months.

The décor in the guest rooms of Aviano are exactly as you would expect in a place as historic and romantic as Vienna. Ornate wallpaper and old-fashioned boudoirs line the room, and intricate chandeliers hang from the ceiling. Leave your room and head outside and you’re just a few minutes’ walk away from some of Vienna’s top sights, including the Vienna State Opera. I loved my stay there and highly recommend it.

• Click here to see photos and rates for Aviano Hotel .

Luxury Hotel:  Hotel Sacher Wien

Want to sleep where John F. Kennedy and Queen Elizabeth II have rested their heads? Head to Hotel Sacher Vienna, a luxurious hotel centrally located in Vienna that also gives you direct access to the adjacent Sacher Café, where you can fill up to your heart’s delight on tortes and Viennese hot chocolate. But let’s move our minds away from food and back to the rooms. Hotel Sacher has opulent guest rooms with painstaking attention to details that will enhance your comfort level during your stay. Rooms are decorated in soothing colors and have crystal chandeliers and well-stocked mini bars, while the beds are outfitted with high quality bedding and the bathrooms have luxury toiletries and spacious countertops, tubs, and showers.  

• Click here to see photos and rates for Hotel Sacher Wien .

Budget-Friendly Hostel Ruthensteiner

The clean and friendly Hostel Ruthensteiner has a convenient location a short walk from Westbahnhof train station, which is located between Schönbrunn Palace and Old Town. In addition to rooms ranging from 6-10 bed dorm rooms (including female only ones) to private rooms for one to five people, some with ensuites, you’ll find a host of extras at Ruthensteiner Hostel.

Grab a drink at the onsite bar or take your pick from the wall of musical instruments and start an impromptu concert with some of the other hostel dwellers. In addition, there is free Wi-Fi, hair dryers, 24 hour reception, lockers, kitchen, and laundry facilities. In addition, you can book tours and rent bicycles and even iPads at the front desk.

You can also search for the perfect Vienna hotel for you by using Booking.com, which is one of my favorite hotel booking sites since it is super easy to use and see the rooms available, plus has free cancellation for most rooms.

One Day in Vienna Modified Itinerary Ideas

Visiting the recommended sites I listed above will give you a great feel for the history and culture of Vienna. To add more into the day would really rush things, and you’ll want to enjoy your time at each site. However, since not everyone places similar value on the same types of attractions when traveling, here are some other sites you may want to visit while in Vienna.

Each site includes a recommendation on what to substitute from the One Day in Vienna recommended itinerary, which are chosen based on time constraints while still getting a similar cultural experience from your day; however, you may want to spend your entire day at museums or more time at the parks so rearrange and pick and choose your ideal day as you desire.

Vienna Itinerary Modification for Park Lovers: Stadtpark

If you enjoy park settings, then Stadtpark in Vienna is worth some of your time during your day in the city. Elegant landscaping and colorful flowers dot a grassy setting with meandering trails and bridges along the River Wien.

The focal point of Stadtpark is the Johann Strauss statue; a bronze statue of the revered composer playing the violin is elevated on a platform beneath an arch, surrounded by greenery and flowers.

Stadtpark Quick Tips Address: Located between Parkring and Am Heumarkt Metro: Stadtpark (U4 Line) Phone: 43 1 400 080 42 Hours: Open 24 hours a day. Cost: Free What to Substitute from the Recommended Itinerary: St. Stephen’s Cathedral or Rathaus for a short stay, or Hofburg Palace or one of the museum’s in the MuseumsQuartier for a longer stroll through the park.

Vienna Itinerary Modification for Architect Buffs: Hundertwasserhaus

Hundertwasserhaus requires a bit of a jaunt outside the city center to the Landstraße district, but it’s worth it for those who like interesting architecture.

Hundertwasserhaus was completed in 1985 and is the creation of artist/architect Friedensreich Hundertwasser, an Austrian-born architect and artist known for his contemporary creations. Hundertwasserhaus is immediately eye-catching with an exterior of bright paint colors wrapping around the windows in colorful, curvy blocks and over 200 types of trees and plants grow on its rooftop.

The inside of the building can’t be toured as it is actually inhabited by lucky tenants, but this is one building that’s well worth visiting to see the exterior. If you do want to see inside a Friedensreich Hundertwasser creation, head to the nearby Kunst Haus Wien, a building his designs influenced which houses the Hundertwasser Museum about his life and the construction of Hundertwasserhaus. The museum also has temporary exhibits of other artists’ works.

Hundertwasserhaus Quick Tips Address: Kegelgasse 36-38 Metro: Rochusgasse (U3 Line) Phone: 43 1 470 12 12 Hours: 24 hours a day Cost: Free What to Substitute from the Recommended Itinerary: Schönbrunn Palace

Kunst Haus Wien Quick Tips Address: Untere Weißgerberstraße 13 Metro: Rochusgasse (U3 Line) Phone: 43 1 712 04 91 Hours: Open daily, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Cost: Hundertwasser Museum or Temporary Museum: Adults, €10; Children and Teens ages 11 – 18 years old, €5; Families (2 Adults and up to 4 children – children can be 18 years old and younger), €22. Hundertwasser Museum and Temporary Museum: Adults, €12; Children and Teens ages 11 – 18 years old, €6; Families (2 adults and up to 4 children – children can be 18 years old and younger), €26. Children ages 10 and younger are free. What to Substitute from the Recommended Itinerary: Schönbrunn Palace

Vienna Itinerary Modification for Church Lovers: St. Peter’s Church

St. Peter’s Church is a glorious Baroque church tucked into a corner of Petersplatz square that stands on a plot of land believed to have been used by Christians as a place of worship as far back as the 4th century and thus is considered to be the oldest Christian site in Vienna.

The present chapel was built in the early 1700s. A visit inside is worth it to view the impressive fresco in the dome portion of the ceiling depicting the Coronation of the Virgin.

St. Peter’s Church Quick Tips Address:  Petersplatz Metro: Stephansplatz (U1 or U3 Line) Phone: 43 1 533 64 33 Hours:  Monday – Friday, 7 a.m. – 8 p.m.; Saturday – Sunday, 9 a.m. – 9 p.m. Cost: Free What to Substitute from the Recommended Itinerary: Rathaus or Mozart House if you want to spend extra time in St. Peter’s Church, otherwise you can quickly pop into this church after visiting St. Stephen’s Cathedral as the two churches only take a few minutes to walk between.

Vienna Itinerary Modification for Photo Snappers: Danube Tower (Donauturm)

The Danube Tower is the highest structure in Austria, standing tall at 252 meters. The Danube Tower is located in pretty Donaupark and was built in 1964 for the Viennese International Horticultural Show. The terrace at the top of the Danube Tower is a great spot for sky high views of Vienna and to get panoramic pictures of the cityscape. There are also two revolving restaurants at the top of the Danube Tower (see restaurant section).

Danube Tower Quick Tips Address: Donauturmstraße 4 Metro: Alte Donau (U1 Line) Phone: 43 1 263 35 72 Hours: Open daily, 10 a.m. to midnight. Last lift up to the terrace departs at 11:30 p.m. Cost: Adults, €7.40; Children ages 6 to 14, €5.20; Children under 6 are free. What to Substitute from the Recommended Itinerary: Upper Belvedere

Modification for Music (and Beethoven in Particular) Fans: Eroicahaus

Eroicahaus is where Beethoven spent the summer of 1803 to work on his third symphony, Eroica . Referred to today as the Wien Museum Beethoven Eroicahaus, the layout of this small museum reflects this moment in time and has rooms with musical instruments and the set up that Beethoven probably enjoyed to compose his music.

Eroicahaus is located in the town of Oberdöbling near the Vienna Woods and touring Eroicahaus will give you a feel for what it was like to live in Oberdöbling in the early 1800s when it was still very rural.

Eroicahaus Quick Tips Address: Döblinger Main Road 92 Metro: Heiligenstadt Bf (U4 Line) Note: It’s a 20 minute walk from Heiligenstadt Bf – take a cab or Tram 37 to Pokornygasse to get dropped off closer to Eroicahaus. Phone: 43 1 369 14 24 Hours: Open by appointment only. Call 43-1-505 8747-85173 at least two weeks in advance. Cost: Adults, €4; Children under age 19, Free. Tip: Keep your ticket stub from the Mozart House to get €1 off your admission. What to Substitute from the Recommended Itinerary: MuseumsQuartier or Hofburg Palace

Modification for Those Wanting to Learn More About Vienna’s Government: Parliament Building

Vienna is the capital of Austria and you can learn about the top government officials and how law and policy making works in Austria at the Austrian Parliament Building. While touring the Parliament Building you’ll learn about the National Council and the Federal Council plus see the room of the Federal Assembly (if it’s not in session).

The Parliament Building is also stunning in and of itself and you’ll hear about the architectural features and historical background of the building.

Parliament Building Quick Tips Address: Dr. Karl Renner-Ring 3 Metro: Rathaus (U2 Line) Phone: 43 1 401 10 24 00 Hours: Beginning of September – Mid-July (depending on end of session): Monday – Saturday, tours at 11 a.m., 2 p.m., 3 p.m., 4 p.m. On Friday there is also a tour at 1 p.m. and on Saturday there are also tours at 12 p.m. and 1 p.m. Mid-July – Beginning of September: Monday – Saturday, tours at 11 a.m., 12 p.m., 1 p.m., 2 p.m., 3 p.m., 4 p.m. Cost: Adults, €5; Students, €2.50; Children ages 19 and under, Free. Entrance fee covers hour-long guided tour of the Austrian Parliament. What to Substitute from the Recommended Itinerary: MuseumsQuartier or Mozart House

Vienna Itinerary Modification for Sky-High Fun: Riesenrad

The Riesenrad, also referred to as the Vienna Giant Wheel, is a Ferris wheel located in Vienna’s Prater Park. Originally built in 1897 for the Golden Jubilee celebration of Emperor Franz Joseph I, the Riesenrad was rebuilt in 1945 after a fire burned down the original structure. The rebuilt Ferris wheel has cabins that look like a throwback to another era with red interior that encloses seats inside and large windows from which you can see gorgeous views of Vienna.

You can also learn more about the history of Vienna, particularly the Prater area, in the Panorama exhibit, which has eight different old Ferris wheel cabins that today house installed replications of scenes from Vienna’s past.

Riesenrad Quick Tips Address: Riesenradplatz 1 Metro: Praterstern Bf (U1 Line) Phone: 43 1 729 54 30 Hours: January 1 – January 6, March 1 – April 11, October 1 – November 2, November 22 – December 30: 10 a.m. – 9:45 p.m. January 18 – February 28, November 3 – November 21: 10 a.m. – 7:45 p.m. April 12 – August 31: 9 a.m. – 11: 45 p.m. September 1 – September 30: 9 a.m. – 10:45 p.m. December 31: 10 a.m. – 2 a.m. Cost: Adults, €9; Children ages 3 – 14, €4; Children under 3, Free. What to Substitute from the Recommended Itinerary: Rathaus or Upper Belvedere

Vienna Itinerary Modification for Families: Prater Park

The Riesenrad isn’t the only attraction in Prater Park. There is also the Grottenbahn, a collection of thirty eccentrically decorated grottos that reflect stories from fairy tales and you visit each grotto via a pleasant train ride. Families who want more adventures in the sky can go for a ride on the Praterturm, the world’s highest flying swing at 117 meters.

A planetarium is also located in Prater Park, which will teach kids about astronomy. There is also a rollercoaster, light rail, restaurant and more on the grounds of Prater Park.

Prater Park Quick Tips Address: Wiener Praterverband Phone: 43 1 728 05 16 Metro: Praterstern Bf (U1 Line) Hours: The grounds of Prater Park are open 24 hours, though rides and attractions on the grounds have limited operating hours. Aim to arrive in late morning to early afternoon in order to take full advantage of the attractions. Cost: Entering Prater Park is free, though the attractions cost extra ranging from €2 to €9. What to Substitute from the Recommended Itinerary: Schönbrunn Palace or Hofburg Palace

Vienna Itinerary Modification for Animal Lovers: Schönbrunn Zoo

Often voted one of Europe’s best zoos, the Schönbrunn Zoo is located within the Tiergarten grounds of Schönbrunn Palace. The Schönbrunn Zoo is the world’s oldest zoo and while visiting it you can see where Emperor Francis Stephen of Lorraine kept his menagerie of animals during his reign.

The zoo has over 700 species, including Siberian tigers, panda bears, and elephants. It is a great attraction for those who love seeing animals and is also an ideal kid-friendly activity in Vienna.

Schönbrunn Zoo Quick Tips Address: Schönbrunner Tiergarten-Gesellschaft m.b.H. Metro: Station Hietzing (U4 Line) Phone: +43 1 877 92 94-0 Hours: Open Daily. February, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.; March and October, 9 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.; April – September, 9 a.m. – 6:30 p.m.; November – January, 9 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Cost: Adults, €16.50; Children ages 6 – 18, €8; Children under 6, Free What to Substitute from the Recommended Itinerary: MuseumsQuartier and Belvedere

Vienna Itinerary Modification for Nature Lovers: Vienna Woods

If nature is more your thing than history, you may opt to spend your afternoon in Vienna outside the cosmopolitan city center and instead head to the Vienna Woods, a protected UNESCO-designated biosphere reserve that is adjacent to the city of Vienna to the southwest and is part of the Alps’ foothills. The Vienna Woods covers nearly 25,000 acres and consists of numerous rugged hiking trails through thickly planted trees and plants.

Wine lovers will enjoy the many vineyards that are part of the Vienna Woods and which loop around quaint villages, where you can often find a shop to do a tasting in. Grinzing and Neustift am Walde are popular wine villages.

If you like to hike with a destination in mind, walk to the Stefanie-wart Look-out, which has fantastic views across the woods and surrounding countryside and mountains. While walking around Vienna Woods, keep in mind – and an eye out for – the over 150 bird species that call it home, including the endangered Ural Owl.

Vienna Woods Quick Tips Address: Anton-Krieger-Gasse / Kalksburger Straße Getting There: While there are bus lines that will take you to Vienna Woods, they are time consuming and sporadic. If short on time in Vienna, it’s best to rent a car for the day and have the option to drive directly to what you wish to see in Vienna Woods. The A1 or A23 to the A21 road will take you from Vienna’s city center to the Vienna Woods. Cost: Free, though activities in certain areas may cost extra. What to Substitute from the Recommended Itinerary: Schönbrunn Palace

Vienna Itinerary Ideas for Shopping

Ringstrassen-galerien.

The lobby of one of Vienna’s most opulent hotels, the Grand Hotel Wien, is also home to the city’s best upscale shopping. You’ll get to browse through clothing, jewelry, and lifestyle shops in a luxurious, unique setting. There are over 70 shops and they include both Austrian and international labels. Address: Kärntner Ring 5 – 7 and 9 – 13 Metro: Karlsplatz (U1, U2, or U4 Line) Phone: 43 1 512 51 81 Hours: Monday – Friday, 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Closed Sunday.

Naschmarkt is a food market located in Vienna that has over 120 stands and which is home to a large flea market every Sunday. If you love bargain shopping and are in Vienna on a Saturday, it’s a must-visit. Address: Naschmarkt by Wienzeile Metro: Kettenbrückengasse (U4 Line) Hours: Saturday, 6:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.

Where to Eat in Vienna

I’m going to break this section into three parts: wine gardens, non-wine garden restaurants by some of Vienna’s main attractions, and cafe culture.

If you just have 24 hours in Vienna, I recommend checking out one of the wine garden restaurants because I think they’re such a neat aspect of Vienna. But I also recommend some restaurants right in the city center in case you’re especially short on time. Cafe culture also can’t be missed in Vienna and is practically an attraction unto itself.

Wine Garden Dining

Unlike most of its European neighbors, Vienna is known more for its wine gardens than beer gardens, thanks to the nearby wine-making region in Vienna Woods. Vienna is the only major city in the world that has a wine region with vineyards within its city limits. And Vienna is beautiful with wonderful weather in the non-winter months, meaning wine gardens are a lovely way to enjoy a glass of Viennese wine with some delicious Austrian cuisine. Here are some of the top winery-operated restaurants to check out:

Pffarwirt in Grinzing

The patio of this restaurant is completely surrounded by bright green shrubbery and the large tree in the center creates a canopy of branches over nearby tables. The food is delicious and this wine garden carries some of the best wine you can find in Vienna. Try the perfectly cooked Wiener Schnitzel. Address: Pfarrplatz 5 Phone: 43 1 370 73 73

Wiengut Mayer am Pfarrplatz Beethoven-Haus

This looks like a beer garden at first glance thanks to wooden tables flanked by large trees within an open air setting. But the specialty of this place is the wine, served alongside Austrian fare. What makes it even more special is that it gets its name because it’s located in Beethoven’s former home. Address: Pfarrplatz 2 Phone: 43 1 370 12 87

Non Wine-Garden Dining

This elegant restaurant is located in lovely Stadtpark and is one of the top gourmet restaurants in Vienna. Try to reserve a seat on the patio or terrace to enjoy your meal of delectable Austrian cuisine. Address: Am Heumarkt 2A / im Stadtpark Phone: 43 1 713 31 68

Herzog’s Wirtshaus

This local favorite located by Schönbrunn Palace provides affordable cuisine in a quaint setting. It serves up traditional Austrian favorites with fresh local ingredients and is family-run. Address: Sechshauser Straße 120 Phone: 43 1 893 69 29

This is a brewery, distillery, and restaurant and provides a fun dining experience. Sip on local Austrian beer while you browse the menu full of hearty traditional fare. Try the beer spread for your bread as an appetizer and the Schinkenfleckerl (Austrian pasta with ham) for your main meal. Address: Rennweg 8 Phone: 43 1 799 59 92

Café Culture in Vienna

Vienna is known for its incredible coffees that are thick, creamy, and delicious plus its decadent desserts. Luckily for visitors to Vienna there are plenty of opportunities to drink Viennese Coffee and eat some sweets due to the many cafes dotted around the city. Here are a couple great ones to stop at for a cup of coffee or yummy treat:

Café Sacher Wien

Café Sacher Wien is a famous café in Vienna. Located adjacent to the Hotel Sacher, it features pretty fantastic décor with touches of romanticism, red upholstered tables and stately chairs plus a long bar you can sidle up to and order a quick cup of Viennese Coffee. If coffee’s not your thing, try their hot chocolate – it’s divine. You’ll also want to make sure you order a slice of the café’s Original Sacher-Torte. Address: Philharmonikerstraße 4 Phone: 43 1 514 566 61

Demel is home to sweets and confectionary so delicious that Empress Sisi would have them personally delivered to her. Demel, the origin of which dates back to 1786, is still serving up its sweets and pastries to visitors from around the world. Stop at the shop to pick up some delicacies, then take a moment to watch the bakers do their tasty work as the baking area of Demel is visible to the public through the elaborate and ever changing shop window display.

Demel also has excellent Viennese coffee and hot chocolate. For those who are interested in learning more about Demel’s past, there is an adjacent museum that covers the history of Demel and Viennese chocolate and sweets. Address: Kohlmarkt 14 Phone: 43 1 535 171 70

One Day Tip: There is often a wait to grab a table – get your sweets to go and instead enjoy when touring Rathauspark or Stadtpark (see modified itinerary section), or for a pick-me-up when you get back to your hotel before getting ready for the night.

Vienna Nightlife

Vienna isn’t really the place to hit the clubs if you’re short on time and only have one or two nights there. Instead, take in a musical performance. It’s what Vienna is known for and some of the best concert musicians and opera singers in the world congregate here. Two of the most popular places to take in a show are the Vienna State Opera and Musikverein.

Vienna State Opera Quick Tips

What: Afternoon and evening performances of operas and ballets in Vienna’s most famous opera house. Address: Opernring 2 Metro: Karlsplatz (U1, U2, or U4 Line) Phone: 43 1 514 44 78 80 Cost: Tickets range from €8 – €250 with many price points in between, depending on where in the theater the seats are located. The lower priced tickets have a restricted view of the stage. How to Purchase Tickets: Go to the concert venue website and click on “purchase tickets” under the performance you wish to attend. There are also ticket offices in Vienna where you can buy tickets, but this can be risky as shows often sell out weeks in advance. Note: It is important to know that if your dream of visiting Vienna must include attending a show at the Vienna State Opera, then you should not visit the city in July or August as the Vienna State Opera does not do any performances during this month.

Musikverein Quick Tips

What: A historical, beautiful concert hall in Vienna mostly hosting orchestras and opera singers, of which the most popular performances are the ones by the Vienna Mozart Orchestra, whose musicians perform dressed in historical costumes and wigs. Address: Musikverein Platz 1 Metro: Stadtpark (U4 Line) Phone: 43 1 505 81 90 Cost: Vienna Mozart Orchestra: €45 – €89; other performances have tickets starting from €5. How to Purchase Tickets: Tickets can be purchased online here . Choose the performance you wish to see and choose your ticket by category. You can also purchase tickets at the Musikverein box office located on the left side of the Musikverein building on Monday – Friday from 9 a.m. – 8 p.m. (9 a.m. – 12 p.m. during July and August) and Saturday from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. plus one hour before concerts. For best seat selection, purchase your ticket online in advance.

Alternate Nightlife Option: Medusa Restaurant and Club

For those looking for a drink at a lively establishment, Medusa is a good choice as it’s located right in the heart of Vienna’s bustling city center. A patio with lounge seating is available outside or you can head indoors to find a table amidst trendy décor in the lounge or club area. Medusa has local wines available plus a full bar.

Address:  Neuer Markt 8 Phone: 43 676 60 57 286

Vienna Transportation

A key to making the most of your day in Vienna is getting into the city center as quickly as possible and then expertly making your way around the city once you’ve arrived.

Getting to Vienna

Most people arrive to Vienna via three different methods:

By Air: Vienna International Airport (VIE) is located 10 miles east of the city center. The fast economical way to get into the city from Vienna International Airport is to take the 16-minute City Airport Train (CAT) to the Wien Mitte/Landstraße stop in the city center. This train operates into the city from 6:05 a.m. to 11:35 p.m. and returns to the airport from Wien Mitte/Landstraße between 5:38 a.m. to 11:08 p.m. It departs every 30 minutes. The cost is €11 for one way or €17 for roundtrip and you can buy your ticket when you arrive from ticket machines or the tourist information desk at the airport. From Wien Mitte/Landstraße you can jump on the U-Bahn metro to your hotel or starting point for the day. You can also take a bus into the city center: Postbus line 1185. This bus service runs daily from the airport between 4:50 a.m. and 1:20 a.m. with departures every half hour on the 20 minute and 50 minute mark. The bus takes around 22 minutes to reach the city center and costs €8 one way. Another quick way – which may be faster as it alleviates having to switch onto the U-Bahn – but more expensive is to take a taxi. A taxi into the city center from Vienna International Airport takes roughly 35 minutes and costs around €40-50, though if you book your transportation in advance you can get a special airport tariff rate that may save you €5 to €10. Check http://www.flughafentaxi-wien.at/#taxis for a list of such companies that let you reserve in advance.  

By Train: Vienna’s main train station is Westbahnhof Station, which services domestic and international arrivals and departures and is located just west of the city center. A convenient aspect of Westbahnhof Station is that it’s adjacent to the city metro (Lines U3 and U6 run directly through Westbahnhof) so as soon as you arrive, you’re set to immediately begin exploring Vienna. Westbahnhof Station has multiple connections from large European cities such as Hamburg, Germany and Zurich, Switzerland.

By Car: Vienna can be a headache to get to by car if you’re staying in the city center. If staying in the city center, check if your hotel has a parking lot and how far it is from the hotel. Also, ask if there is a daily fee to use the parking lot (there most likely is). Once you’ve arrived and settled into your hotel, driving around the city center is more of a hassle than it’s worth since you’ll have to pay for parking – if you can find some. Walking or using the metro instead can easily get you most everywhere you want to go. Plus, there are many one-ways that are sometimes confusing for visitors, so if driving around the city, keep a careful eye out for such streets.

Transportation in Vienna

Here are options for getting around Vienna once you’ve arrived in the city.

Metro: Vienna’s underground metro, called the U-Bahn, is convenient and fairly cheap to use, plus it takes credit cards which makes it much faster and easier to buy tickets, especially if you arrive in Vienna without a surplus of euros. If you’re short on time, the U-Bahn is your best option as it is usually faster than using the trams or buses you’ll see navigating the city. The U-Bahn has five lines (U1, U2, U3, U4, U6) which intersect all over Vienna’s city center and also out to the city’s suburbs. A single ticket costs €2.20 while a 24-hour ticket will run you €7.60. The U-Bahn starts running (depending on the station) at 5 a.m. and ends around midnight, though on Friday and Saturday, it runs through the night.

Walking: The central area of Vienna’s historic downtown can be easily walked, however not all of the city’s sites are clustered together, so just planning on walking the city isn’t very practical. However, there are several sites that can easily be walked between and it’s a great way to experience the ambiance of Vienna. 

One Day Tip: Take public transportation as opposed to walking to get to your starting point for the day in order to save time – the metro is easy and inexpensive to use. Also, plan out your day before departing and check out how far apart each site is. If it’s more than a few metro stops, it will save you time to jump on the metro instead of walking to the next site. 

Found this article helpful? Pin it to read again later!

Note: All opening hours, prices, and info was believed to be correct at the time of writing, but is subject to change. Double check all attraction info before leaving for your trip.

I'm a former travel agency marketing director turned freelance travel writer. My editorial and copywriting work has been published on and in USA TODAY, Travel + Leisure, the Travel Channel Cities app, TripSavvy, and many more online and print publications. I especially love sharing my knowledge of traveling with limited vacation time, making the most of cruise ports of call, and vacationing with kids. I also enjoy sharing my favorite travel gear and products to make traveling easier!

February 2, 2017 at

I’m not personally aware of any to recommend, but Viator.com may offer this type of tour package. Enjoy your layover!

January 26, 2017 at

We (4 people) have a 9 hour layover in Vienna in May 2016. Can you recommend a tour provider that can pick us up at the airport and give us a private tour?

August 12, 2016 at

Yes, that’s correct — the City Airport Train (CAT) takes 16 minutes from the airport to the Wien Mitte stop in the city center.

August 10, 2016 at

How about the train? I read it takes 16 minutes to city center.

August 2, 2016 at

Hello great content and tips for some Wientime, during my summer vacations I will have almost a full day between 2 flights in Vienna. I’m looing for the fastest safest and most reliable transfer from the airport to the city centre and back on time… money is not a problem that much, but of course don’t want the have twice as much as I should… I found this service http://wientransfer.com/ , what do you think of them? Are they good do you anything of them?

Search for a Destination…

One Day in Vienna Itinerary: How to Spend the Perfect 24 Hours in Vienna, Austria

Last Updated on August 14, 2024 by gregor

If you’re planning a short trip and have just one day to explore this magnificent city, fear not! In this blog post, I’ll provide you with valuable tips and an engaging One-Day Vienna itinerary to help you make the most of your time in Vienna. So, let’s dive in and discover how to spend the perfect 24 hours in Vienna!

Here’s a complete one day in Vienna itinerary, for those looking the Best things to do in Vienna in a day.

One Day in Vienna Itinerary – What to Do in 24 Hours in Vienna

Why visit vienna in austria day trip to vienna.

• Vienna is known for its stunning architecture, including the iconic Schönbrunn Palace, Hofburg Palace, and St. Stephen’s Cathedral.
• The city is a haven for art enthusiasts, with world-class museums such as the Belvedere Museum and the Albertina Museum.
• Vienna’s coffeehouse culture is legendary, offering a cozy atmosphere to relax and indulge in delicious pastries like Sachertorte and Apfelstrudel.
• The city is a hub for classical music, boasting a rich musical heritage with famous composers like Mozart, Beethoven, and Strauss having called Vienna home.
• Vienna hosts several vibrant festivals throughout the year, including the Vienna Opera Ball and the Christmas markets, adding an extra dose of charm to your visit.

Where is Vienna Located?

Vienna is situated in the northeastern part of Austria, close to the country’s borders with Hungary, Slovakia, and the Czech Republic. Its central location makes it easily accessible from various European cities, either by air, train, or road.

Plan your Trip to Vienna?

• 🏨 Find the perfect accommodation on  Booking.com
• 🎡 Book the Best Guided Tour on  GetYourGuide
• 😍 Get more emotions from your trip with  Tripadvisor
• 🚘 Rent a car on  Rentalcars
• ✈️ Buy the cheapest flight tickets with  WayAway
• 🚂 🚌 ✈️ Best prices for Train, Buses, Cars, Ferries, and flights Omio

The Best Time to Visit Vienna in a Day

Vienna offers a delightful experience in every season, but the best time to visit largely depends on your preferences. Here’s a breakdown of each season:

• Spring (April to June): Pleasant weather, blooming gardens, and fewer crowds make it an ideal time to explore Vienna.
• Summer (July to August): The city comes alive with numerous outdoor events, festivals, and open-air concerts. However, expect larger crowds during this peak tourist season.
• Autumn (September to October): Mild temperatures, colorful foliage, and cultural events, such as the Vienna Design Week, make autumn an enchanting time to visit.
• Winter (November to February): Vienna’s Christmas markets, beautifully adorned with lights and decorations, create a magical atmosphere. It’s also the perfect time to savor Viennese Christmas traditions. Read my Blog post here 👇

WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT VIENNA, AUSTRIA

How to Get to Vienna ?

Vienna is well-connected to major international cities and offers various transportation options:

• By Air: Vienna International Airport (VIE) serves as the main gateway to the city. From the airport, you can easily reach the city center via the City Airport Train (CAT), the S-Bahn (suburban railway), or taxis.

Vienna is notoriously known for its expensive taxi drivers, so getting to the city center could be stressful if you aren’t prepared. I have collected all the reasonable Vienna airport transfer options and put them down for you.

Read this Blog Post

BEST WAYS TO GET FROM VIENNA AIRPORT TO THE CITY CENTER

• By Train: Vienna is well-connected to other European cities by train. The main train station, Wien Hauptbahnhof, offers excellent rail connections.
• By Road: If you prefer a road trip, Vienna can be easily reached by car or bus. The city is connected to major highways, and there are several bus services that operate within Europe.

There are 4 Ways to get around Vienna.

When you are ready to explore Vienna in one day you need to decide how you want to get around the city.

By Public Transport – Vienna City Card

Taking public transportation is the most convenient method to get around Vienna (Euro 8.- for a 24-hour ticket). A Vienna City Card , which permits unlimited use of the city’s metro, tram, and bus lines, can be purchased in advance. Vienna City Cards are available for 1, 2, or 3 consecutive days, and prices range from 24 hours for Euro 17 to 3 days of use + airport transfer for Euro 46.-.

The Vienna City Card also offers discounts at over 210 major attractions, making it an excellent value.

By Bicycle – Rent a Bike in Vienna

The city center of Vienna, and the majority of tourist attractions, are reachable by bicycle.Wien-Mobile Rad is the most popular bike-sharing service in Vienna. Simply register online, find a terminal, and scan the QR code to unlock a bike. 

Detailed Information on How to Rent a bike in Vienna on my Blog :

BIKE RENTAL IN VIENNA – EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW – WIENMOBIL RAD (VIDEO TOUR)

Top Tip! There is also the very popular Classic Vienna: 3-Hour Guided Bike Tour available to book in advance.

By Hop On Hop Off Bus

The City Card provides access to standard buses throughout Vienna. There is, of course, the well-known Vienna Hop-on Hop-off Sightseeing Bus . This Hop On Hop Off bus allows you to hop on and off at many locations throughout the city, including the Museums of the Hofburg, the House of Music, and the Schönbrunn Palace. This choice is always popular amongst travelers, and it is a great way to see many of Vienna’s famous attractions.

View Prices and Reviews

BEST VIENNA HOP ON HOP OFF BUS TOURS – SIGHTSEEING BUS TOURS

Here is all you need to know about Sightseeing Bus Tours in Vienna

By Guided Tour

There are some amazing tours available to book in advance on Get Your Guide for people who are short on time or prefer everything to be organized for them. There’s much to do in the Austrian capital, from food tours to river cruises and bar crawls!

Before you start your One Day in Vienna Tour you need to start with a Traditional Viennese Café visit.

The most famous cafe in Vienna is Cafe Central, a few steps away from the St. Stephens Cathedral.

My favorite, however, is Cafe Pruckel, close to the Stadtpark and next to the U3 Stubentor subway station. 

For other Cafe House recommendations, please read my Blog Post:

BEST COFFEEHOUSES IN THE CITY CENTER OF VIENNA, AUSTRIA

Stephansplatz + St. Stephens Cathedral

Stephansplatz is the central square that sits right in the heart of Vienna.

Easily accessible from anywhere around the capital, simply jump on the underground and head to Stephansplatz Station.

The square is named after St. Stephen’s Cathedral, Watching over the city for more than 300 years, the cathedral is an iconic landmark. The stunning gates date back to the 13th century and are said to be the oldest part of the cathedral. The cathedral was named after St. Stephen, the first martyr of Christendom, and is the burial place of the Founder, Duke Rudolph, and other members of the Habsburg family. 

Additionally, the cathedral is home to the largest bell known as the Boomer Bell, and the red-marble sepulcher. Whereas the south tower offers you a complete view of the city. 

I have collected all visitor’s Information and top Tips about St. Stephen’s Cathedral.

THE STEPHANSDOM CATHEDRAL IN VIENNA, SIGHTSEEING INFO AND TIPS

You’ll likely see a few Fiaker rides available in the Old Town. A FIAKER is a form of a hackney coach, a horse-drawn four-wheeled carriage for hire. As well as the cathedral in Stephansplatz, you can find plenty of shopping, bars, and cafes – so it’s an easy way to kill a couple of hours in the city. Here is a great spot to grab a bite to eat and refuel on your One Day in Vienna itinerary.

Hofburg Palace – Michaeler Tor

Set in the old town, the palace is one of the best places to spend your day. However, when you have only one day at hand, we suggest you head over there early in the morning and take in as much as possible. 

Dripping with luxury and style the palace represents the Habsburg Dynasty in every way. A place where you are dazzled just walking towards the establishment, which will continue as you walk through the place. Just thinking about all the history can take you back in time, covered over 59 acres the Hofburg Palace offers eighteen group buildings, twenty courtyards, and around twenty-six hundred rooms. 

I have collected all visitor’s Information and top Tips about Hofburg Palace in Vienna.

R ead this Blog Post

THE HOFBURG IMPERIAL PALACE COMPLEX IN VIENNA, AUSTRIA

THE EMPRESS SISI MUSEUM IN THE HOFBURG IN VIENNA

MOST BEAUTIFUL PALACES IN VIENNA – THE MUST-VISIT PALACES IN VIENNA

Museumsquartier

From Stephansplatz jump back on the underground, and it’s an easy 2-stop ride on the U3 line to Volkstheater Station. This will lead you out into Museumsquartier. The Museumsquartier in Vienna is one of the largest districts for contemporary art and culture in the world. The district is spread over 90,000 square meters, so there’s certainly plenty to see. There are a few options of tours such as the 1–Hour MuseumsQuartier Guided Site Tour or you could book your Skip-the-Line Tickets to Leopold Museum tickets in advance.

From music and fashion to theatre and dance, it doesn’t end there. Photography, street art, and fine art make this place creative heaven. you’re not much of a museum fan or short on time, then you could possibly drop this spot from your one-day in Vienna itinerary.If you do try and squeeze it into your Vienna in a day trip, it’s probably best to pre-arrange which parts of Museumsquartier you’d like to see specifics.

There a several Food markets in Vienna, but this is by far my favorite spot you must explore on the one-day in Vienna itinerary. Probably due to the sheer amount of food on offer! Naschmarkt is the most popular market in Vienna! And it’s just a 10-minute walk from the Vienna Opera House. It offers all of the best foods and local products, including some that aren’t found anywhere else in the city or even the country. At the market, there’s a lot to see, eat, and drink. It not only caters to locals who need to finish their weekly grocery shopping, but it also draws visitors from all over the world.

Tourists come to the Naschmarkt to soak up the ambiance, hear the noises of an Austrian market, and buy cheap refreshments. If you’re searching for a low-cost, well-respected guided tour of Naschmarkt, go no further than the Naschmarkt Food Tasting Tour . Book online now Otherwise, there is a full 4-hour food tasting tour of Vienna available here , which provides a more comprehensive understanding of Austrian cuisine. A coffee shop, a traditional market, a bakery, and an artisan chocolate shop are all on the itinerary. While sampling cheese, sausages, wine, and a variety of other Austrian goodies.

Exotic fruits, colorful food, cheese, and hummus, as well as a variety of local spices, abound in the market.

If you’re visiting Vienna in a day , then you have to visit the Naschmarkt.

For more information, please read my blog post: 👇

NASCHMARKT VIENNA GUIDE – MOST POPULAR VIENNESE FOOD MARKET(+VIDEO TOUR)

Hundertwasser Haus

The Hundertwasser House area, which is only a 15-minute walk from the City Center is one of our top recommendations for a day trip to Vienna. The Hundertwasser House is a green oasis in the center of the city, with all the trees that flourish among the balconies and terraces. Its brightly colored architecture, designed by Friedensreich Hundertwasser, attracts visitors from all walks of life.

For more information and Hundertwasser House visitors Tips, please read my blog post:

HUNDERTWASSERHAUS VIENNA, SIGHTSEEING INFO AND TIPS

In the other direction from the Hundertwasser House, the same artist built his own shopping mall out of a tire factory. It also has a bar and a few stores. All in the style of Hundertwasser.

The KunstHausWien , a museum designed by Friedensreich Hundertwasser, is also worth a visit. The museum is home to the only permanent exhibition of Hundertwasser’s work in the world.

For more information and Kunsthaus Wien visitors Tips, please read my blog post:

KUNSTHAUS WIEN – MUSEUM HUNDERTWASSER VIENNA, AUSTRIA

Before continuing on to the next item on your one-day Vienna itinerary, explore the area and pick up some unique gifts. The Hundertwasser House is a must-see! If you’re planning to Vienna in a day, don’t miss this one.

Schönbrunn Palace

The final stop on the one-day Vienna itinerary is one you save the best for the last. Schönbrunn Palace was the Habsburg emperor’s major summer residence, and it is today, possibly the most photographed building in the country. The interior has been turned into a massive museum filled with history and tales from the past. The Schönbrunn Palace’s opening hours are daily 6.30am – 7pm.

It is highly advised to book your Schönbrunn Tickets upfront Online so book your Schönbrunn Palace & Gardens: Skip-the-Line Guided Tour here .

Alternatively, there are plenty of tours online such as this one , which guarantees a delightful taste of Vienna’s cultural landmarks, taking in the Opera and many other attractions by bus, then skip the line for a special tour of the glorious Schönbrunn Palace.

Book your Schonbrunn Palace Tours: Schonbrunn Palace: Top Tours & Activities

For more information, please read this blog post: 👇

A QUICK TRAVEL GUIDE TO VIENNA’S SCHÖNBRUNN PALACE, VIENNA AUSTRIA

The Schönbrunn Palace Gardens is now a beautifully symmetrical public park that attracts tourists and joggers on a frequent basis.

Schönbrunn Palace is a great way to end your trip to Vienna, so make sure to include it in your one-day in Vienna itinerary.

More suggestions for a one-day visit to Vienna Itinerary

Maria theresia platz.

The largest public square was built to honor the Hapsburg Empress Maria Theresa. There is a statue of the Empress that is considered to be one of the most important monuments of its time. The statue took 13 years in the making, is 19 meters high, and is surrounded by four horseman statues to amplify the impact. Just walking toward the setting you will be able to take in its gorgeous craftsmanship. 

A UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site is called the Legacy of Maria Theresa. Celebrating her stories of tact and grit is a marvelous wonder. The way she reformed the schools, handled state affairs, and took care of her 16 children is marvelous. 

Inner City Lunch

At lunchtime, we suggest you stay put in the inner city and grab a bite at one of the local cafes or restaurants. The best part about the inner city is that you will find endless options based on your taste and budget, making sure you don’t skip a meal. However, if you are not in the mood for a full lunch, you can at least grab a cup of coffee and a delicious treat to go with it. 

Read my Blog post here

VIENNA FOOD GUIDE – TRADITIONAL VIENNESE FOOD YOU MUST EAT IN VIENNA, AUSTRIA (UPDATE 2022)

Belvedere Museum

While the Belvedere Palace is one of the top wonders of Vienna, if you are stretched for the time we suggest you make a quick stop at the Belvedere museum. A place where you will be able to find 150 sacred medieval art pieces, Gustav Klimt paintings, sculptures, fountains, cascades, and so much more. If you have time we suggest you take on the temporary exhibit as well.

Book your Belvedere Tour Online Tour here: Belvedere Tour Vienna

(Save time with this Skip The Line Ticket!)

St Peter’s Church

Peterskirche dates back to the Middle Ages and is one of a kind. Featuring a beautiful green-colored dome the church offers intricate details on the inside. Offers you a breathtakingly beautiful high altar, side altars, phenomenal religious artwork, and remarkable frescos. 

Book your Guided Tour for the St. Peters Church in Vienna

The Graben – Luxury Shopping Mile in Vienna

An upscale and tending street that is lined with numerous shops and cafes. Set in the heart of the city, the Graben, Vienna dates back to the time of the old Roamans. Making it a historical landmark that comes with a Viennese twist. 

Amidst the shops, you will find a plague column that dates back to the 17th century and is constructed using marble. Creating a unique structure that allows the marketplace to stand out from the rest. Paired with beautiful window displays and both local and international designers, you are in for a treat. 

Read more about Luxury Shopping in Vienna (Full Guide)

LUXURY SHOPPING IN VIENNA GUIDE (STORES, MAP AND VIDEO GUIDE)

VIENNA ELEGANCE AT THE GRABEN

Wiener Prater – Ferris Wheel

Prater is located about 15 minutes away from the city center and is one of the best amusement parks in Vienna. While it offers you a great deal, one of the iconic symbols of Prater Park is its Wiener Riesenrad Ferris Wheel. 

Book your Ferries Wheel Skip the Line Ticket here!

Finally, a place where you can indulge in some comfort food, relax and enjoy every moment of your life. A necessary addition for those who are looking to blow off steam. 

Vienna State Opera

The state opera is a wonder that only a few get to experience. This is why we suggest you plan your trip in a way that allows you to enjoy a concert. When planning a stop you can check with the local opera house and make sure you are able to enjoy some of the greatest. 

Read All the Important information about visiting the Vienna Opera House .

ULTIMATE GUIDE VISITING THE VIENNA OPERA HOUSE, AUSTRIA

Vienna State Opera Skip The Line Tour Ticket

Eat a Wiener Schnitzel

Now that you are in the local mood, it’s time to start eating like a local as well. Forget fancy restaurants and three-course meals. It is time to get down to business and start eating like the locals. Wiener schnitzel is not just a classic, it is a way of life. One that you can easily fall in love with, no matter where you are.

Traditionally a Wiener Schnitzel is made using veal, but with the passage of time, it’s now made using different types of meats as well. While almost every restaurant serves a wiener schnitzel, there are many that focus solely on serving one or a few different types of wiener schnitzel. To a point where you can choose from the type of meat, cooking technique, condiments, and even the side. That does not mean you can just grab one anywhere, it’s best to do your research beforehand and choose a place that matches your taste and budget. Make sure you can enjoy the most out of everything this world has to offer.

While we have offered you an overall guide, we suggest you tweak the plan based on the season. For instance, if you are in Vienna during the holiday season you cannot miss out on the Christmas Market.

ULTIMATE VIENNA CHRISTMAS MARKET FOOD GUIDE, VIENNA – AUSTRIA

Similarly, when you come to Vienna in the spring season you have to take on a hiking challenge. 

SPRING IN VIENNA TOP 10 THINGS TO DO IN VIENNA, AUSTRIA

Best 15 Food Tours in Vienna. More Information and Book Online here:

15 BEST FOOD TOURS IN VIENNA, AUSTRIA – UPDATED 2024

Planning ahead can help you make the most of your day you don’t have to plan everything down to the dot, but getting a general idea of what interests you and how to manage your time can help you squeeze in another worthy stop.

Day Trips from Vienna

If you have extra time, consider taking a day trip from Vienna to explore the surrounding areas. Here are a few recommended options:

Bratislava, Slovakia: Take a short train or boat ride to the charming Slovakian capital, known for its picturesque Old Town and historic landmarks. Read my Blog post here 👇

DAY TRIP FROM VIENNA TO BRATISLAVA – ONE-DAY ITINERARY

Wachau Valley: Embark on a scenic journey to the Wachau Valley, famous for its vineyards, charming towns, and medieval castles. Read my Blog post here 👇

DAY TRIP FROM VIENNA TO WACHAU VALLEY, AUSTRIA

Salzburg: Visit the birthplace of Mozart and explore the beautiful city of Salzburg, known for its baroque architecture and stunning Alpine scenery. Read my Blog post here 👇

DAY TRIP FROM VIENNA TO SALZBURG – BEST TRAVEL TIPS

Should I Buy Travel Insurance for Vienna?

It’s highly recommended to purchase travel insurance before visiting Vienna or any other destination. Travel insurance provides coverage for medical emergencies, trip cancellations or interruptions, lost luggage, and other unforeseen circumstances. It offers peace of mind and ensures that you’re protected throughout your trip.

✅ Don’t forget to book insurance for the trip. It is easy to do online via  Visitors Coverage .

Best Vienna Tours

If you prefer guided experiences, Vienna offers a variety of tours that cater to different interests. Here are a few popular tour options:

Walking Tour of Vienna’s Historic Center: Join a knowledgeable guide to explore the highlights of Vienna’s historic center, including St. Stephen’s Cathedral, Hofburg Palace, and the Vienna State Opera.

Schönbrunn Palace Tour: Discover the fascinating history and opulent interiors of Schönbrunn Palace with a guided tour that takes you through the magnificent staterooms.

Viennese Coffeehouse Tour: Immerse yourself in Vienna’s coffeehouse culture with a guided tour that introduces you to the city’s most iconic coffeehouses and their specialties.

I always use GetYourGuide to book activities and attractions while traveling through Europe. You can search through over 400 Vienna attractions on their website here 👇

FAQs about One Day in Vienna Itinerary

Vienna is a city that is filled with so many things to see and do but if you only have one day there are a few must-see sights that you cannot miss. Start your day with a visit to the majestic Schönbrunn Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site that was the summer residence of the Habsburgs. Next, head to St. Stephen’s Cathedral, a stunning Gothic cathedral that is the heart of Vienna’s Old Town. You can then stroll through the charming streets of the city center, admiring the beautiful architecture visiting the famous Hofburg Palace, and stopping for a coffee and slice of Sachertorte at one of the many cafes. End your day with a visit to the Vienna State Opera, one of the most famous opera houses in the world

There are a few things in Vienna that you simply cannot miss. One of the most iconic sights is the Schönbrunn Palace, a magnificent Baroque palace that was once the summer residence of the Habsburgs. Another must-see is St. Stephen’s Cathedral a stunning Gothic cathedral that is the heart of Vienna’s Old Town. The Hofburg Palace is another important landmark once the imperial palace of the Habsburg dynasty, and today home to the offices of the Austrian President. A visit to Vienna wouldn’t be complete without seeing the famous Lipizzaner horses at the Spanish Riding School or enjoying a slice of Sachertorte at one of the city’s famous cafes.

If you only have 4 hours in Vienna, don’t worry there’s still plenty to see and do! Start by visiting St. Stephen’s Cathedral where you can admire the stunning Gothic architecture and climb the tower for a panoramic view of the city. Next, head to the Hofburg Palace where you can explore the imperial apartments and learn about the fascinating history of the Habsburg dynasty. Finish your visit with a stroll through the charming streets of the city center admiring the beautiful architecture and stopping for a coffee and pastry at one of Vienna’s famous cafés. VIENNA – TOP THINGS TO SEE AND DO IN 4 HOURS IN VIENNA, AUSTRIA (UPDATE 2023)

With 10 hours in Vienna, you have enough time to see many of the city’s most famous sights. Start your day with a visit to the Schönbrunn Palace, where you can explore the beautiful gardens tour the palace, and learn about the history of the Habsburg dynasty. Next head to St. Stephen’s Cathedral, where you can climb the tower for a panoramic view of the city. Take a stroll through the charming streets of the city center, stopping at the Hofburg Palace to see the imperial apartments and visiting the Spanish Riding School to see the famous Lipizzaner horses. Finish your day with a visit to the Vienna State Opera where you can enjoy a world-class performance in one of the most famous opera houses in the world.

Vienna is a city that is easy to explore on your own. Start your day with a visit to St. Stephen’s Cathedral where you can admire the stunning Gothic architecture and climb the tower for a panoramic view of the city. Next take a stroll through the charming streets of the city center stopping at the Hofburg Palace to see the imperial apartments and visiting the famous cafes for coffee and pastry. Explore the Museum Quarter home to some of Vienna’s best museums and art galleries and take a walk through the beautiful parks and gardens that dot the city. Finish your day with a visit to the Vienna State Opera or a concert at one of the city’s many music venues

Vienna is a city that is filled with so much history, culture, and beauty that one day is simply not enough to see it all. However, if you only have one day in Vienna here is a sample itinerary to make the most of your time: Morning: Start your day with a visit to the Schönbrunn Palace, the former summer residence of the Habsburgs. Take a guided tour of the palace to see the opulent staterooms, including the stunning Great Gallery, where the emperor would hold court. Afternoon: Next, head to St. Stephen’s Cathedral the iconic symbol of Vienna’s Old Town. Take a guided tour of the cathedral and climb the tower for panoramic views of the city. Wander the charming streets of the city center admiring the beautiful architecture and stopping for a coffee and pastry at one of the famous cafes. Evening: In the evening, visit the Vienna State Opera one of the most famous opera houses in the world. If you’re lucky you may be able to catch a performance or even take a guided tour of the opera house. You could also visit one of Vienna’s many museums, such as the Kunsthistorisches Museum or the Albertina to see some of the world’s finest art collections or head to the Prater, an amusement park that features the iconic Riesenrad Ferris wheel and a variety of rides and attractions.

Other One Day in a City Itineraries

If you enjoy exploring cities in a day, you might also be interested in our other “One Day in a City” itineraries.

Be sure to check out some more One Day Itineraries from the most popular cities in Europe!

One Day in Salzburg

One Day in Hallstatt

One Day in Budapest

One Day in Bratislava

One Day in Ljubljana

One Day in Milan

One Day in Dubrovnik

Palais Liechtenstein Garden Palace Walking Tour Vienna, Austria

Ultimate 15 winter photos make you want to travel to vienna.

One Day in Vienna Itinerary – How to Spend a Perfect Day in Vienna, Austria

Vienna in one day

Planning to visit this magnificent city? Here’s a list of all places to visit if you’re spending a day in Vienna and everything else you need to make this trip absolutely perfect!

1. What’s the best time to visit Vienna? 2. A few facts about Vienna 3. One Day in Vienna Itinerary 3.1. Start your day with the enchanting Belvedere Palace 3.2. Visit the Karlsplatz 3.3. Explore the famous Naschmarkt 3.4. Tour the historic Ringstrasse 3.5. Stroll the Old Town 3.6. Taste the delicious Viennese sausage 3.7. Visit the Palmenhaus at the Burggarten 3.8. Breathe in some tropical air at the Butterfly House 3.9. Dinner Time 4.0. Spend the night in the NeuBau District 4.1. Vienna with Kids – Prater Park 5. Where to stay in Vienna? 6. Extra tips for visiting Vienna

What’s the best time to visit Vienna?

TIP: Need a transport from/to an airport? Pre-book your transfer with Welcomepickups . They offer the cheapest prices and most comfortable ride along with the possibility to pre-order essential travel products.

Vienna is a year-round destination where every season has its special charm. If you want to enjoy sunny and warm weather with temperatures above 25°C (77°F), make sure you visit Vienna in summer . Shoulder months, May and September also bring nice weather with less tourist crowds. Winter in Vienna is cold and dry, with the temperatures hovering around the freezing point, but this is when the city hosts some of its most famous annual events.

The Christmas Market in Vienna is the most famous and one of the biggest Christmas markets in Europe. From mid-November to Christmas, many of the city’s streets and squares become scenic spots with enchanting light decorations and wooden stalls selling everything from Christmas accessories to baked goods and hot punch. Make sure to visit the most famous Christmas market location in front of Rathausplatz where you can ice skate with the fairy-tale backdrop of the Vienna City Hall right behind you. Ice skating doesn’t stop with Christmas Eve, though. Vienna Ice World is another event that takes place at the same location from January all the way to March.

Besides the Christmas Market, Vienna also hosts the world-famous New Year’s Concert on January 1 st .

A few facts about Vienna

Austrian capital and its largest city, Vienna is located in the country’s eastern part, close to the Slovakian border and only a 45 minutes’ ride from Bratislava . As the capital of the once powerful Austro-Hungarian Empire , Vienna was for centuries a cultural centre of classical music, arts and science.

Vienna is home to some of the most beautiful examples of Baroque or neo-Classical palaces built during the reign of the Habsburg dynasty. These include the Schönbrunn Palace , the Belvedere Palace and the Hofburg Palace among many others. Besides that rich architectural heritage, new buildings and modern interventions are largely present in the city’s appearance.

Because of its musical legacy, Vienna is recognized as a world capital of music and was given the name City of Music . Today, this city is a cultural and economic central European hub and one of world’s most livable cities.

One Day in Vienna Itinerary

Store your luggage:  LuggageHero allows you to store your luggage for as long as you want to. If you are there only for a day, or waiting for a check-in, this sounds like a perfect option!

Follow this guide and make the most of your trip even if you’re short on time. These are the top sights and things to do during your one day in Vienna.

Start your day with the enchanting Belvedere Palace

It can be tough to decide which of Vienna’s famous palaces to visit first, but the Belvedere Palace is simply a classic. Start your day early and visit the enchanting palatial complex Belvedere right in the morning when the crowd is still reduced. It is actually within a walking distance from the city center, which also makes it a great pick for your one day in Vienna. The two palaces, Upper and Lower Belvedere , accompanied with vast gardens and an orangery, were built as a summer residence for Prince Eugene of Savoy.

Today, both of the palaces, along with an impressive collection of Austrian works of art, are a part of the Belvedere Museum, which is open every day from 9.00 am. The admission varies depending on the exhibits you want to visit, but you can check them all out here . The gardens can be explored for free, and once you reach the Upper Belvedere you’ll be confronted with the beautiful Vienna skyline , so even if you’re traveling on a budget don’t skip this on your tour.

Visit the Karlsplatz

After you’re done with the Belvedere, take a 15-minute walk to the Karlsplatz . There are many interesting sights in the area, but one is really hard to miss  – Karlskirche, an outstanding baroque church with a large pool in front of it. The huge Resselpark dominates the square. Don’t miss the Art Nouveau pavilion of the former Karlsplatz station designed by the famous architect Otto Wagner. Another great example of Vienna Secession is the exhibit hall known as the Secession Building created by the architect Joseph Maria Olbrich, only a block away from the Karlsplatz. 

Explore the famous Naschmarkt

No need to walk for this one, as you’re basically at the Naschmarkt . Right next to the Secession Building, this famous Viennese market stretches for around 1.5km, offering anything from fresh fruit and vegetables to exotic herbs, meats, seafood, cheeses and baked goods, while on Saturday it houses a flea market . This famous market is actually a very old Viennese tradition, since a variety of products have been sold at this place since the 16 th century. Explore the colorful stalls, sample their food and later stop for some brunch at one of the many eateries offering both Austrian and international cuisine. Unfortunately, if visiting on a Sunday, you’ll find the place closed.

Tour the historic Ringstrasse

It’s pretty challenging to fit all of Vienna’s best attractions into one day. With that in mind, the best thing you can do is take the yellow Vienna Ringtram (Wiener Linier) that tours the Ringstrasse – a historical boulevard lined with some of the most significant imperial landmarks such as the Vienna Town Hall (Wiener Rathaus), State Opera , Natural History Museum and the Hofburg Palace . The round-trip with multilingual commentary takes approximately 25 minutes. The first tram departs at 10.00 am from the Schwedenplatz and later runs every half an hour. To reach the Schwedenplatz from the Naschmarkt, take the direct metro line U4 at the Kettenbrückengasse.

Stroll the Old Town

Vienna’s Old Town is the area of the 1 st District (Innere Stadt) encircled by the Ringstrasse boulevard where the majority of cultural and architectural heritage is located. Climb the South Tower of the St. Stephen’s Cathedral for some spectacular panoramic city views, check out the St. Peter’s Baroque Church (Peterskirche) exterior, stroll the Graben pedestrian street and finally end your walk at the Michaelerplatz in front of the impressive imperial palace, the Hofburg . Unfortunately, since you only have one day in Vienna, you won’t have time to get inside the palace and visit its greatest attractions – the Sisi Museum, Imperial Apartments and the Silver Collection, but hey, that’s a great reason to revisit Vienna.  

Taste the delicious Viennese sausage

You don’t have to bother finding a restaurant to try the famous Wiener Wurst, since there are many stalls in the Old Town selling these delicious sausages. Just look for a stall with the longest queue in front, or check out the famous Bitzinger Würstelstand am Albertinaplatz in front of the Albertina Museum. There’s a variety of delicious sausages such as the cheese-filled sausage (Käsekrainer) or the spicy one (Scharfe). You can have it chopped up or stuffed in a baguette, and you can add the tomato sauce and mustard. This quintessential Viennese treat is also a great budget deal , since one portion costs less than €5.

Visit the Palmenhaus at the Burggarten

Coffee houses are such a big part of Viennese culture that the whole Coffee House Culture is listed as an Intangible Cultural Heritage in the Austrian inventory. And while most of the attention goes to Café Sacher and Café Demel, these cafes are queued out the door most of the time.

Instead of waiting in those lines, visit the Palmenhaus at the Burggarten , the most unique Viennese coffee house and a restaurant in a lush rainforest setting inside the former Emperor’s glasshouse. Filled with palms and other tropical vegetation, the Palmenhaus offers a perfect break from the busy streets. They also serve the popular Sacher cake (chocolate cake with a layer of apricot jam), and there’s no better place to try it than Vienna.

Breathe in some tropical air at the Butterfly House

Within the Palmenhouse, under the same steel and glass structure, you’ll find the Butterfly House (Schmetterlinghaus). This greenhouse has a great butterfly collection of around 400 butterflies flying freely in the tropical forest under the glass arched ceilings. This green oasis should be visited not only because of these beautiful little creatures, but also because you have a chance to escape whatever weather conditions are outside and enjoy the hot and humid tropical climate in the middle of Vienna. It really is a unique experience!

Dinner Time

Needless to say, Vienna’s culinary scene is of the highest standard and has a lot to offer. But out of many Vienna’s famous restaurants, Restaurant 1070 stands out with its unique concept. There’s no menu in the restaurant, you basically only tell the waiter what food you don’t eat and that’s it – the rest is left to the chef’s creativity. The portions are not that big, but you’ll be served an obligatory 3-course menu that will cost you 27.90€ (you can always add more courses later). The place is quite small and intimate and usually requires a reservation.

In case you’re not into surprises when it comes to food and you want something more local, Centimeter is the place for you. The place serves Austrian classics like Wiener schnitzel (breaded veal cutlet) and a 2-meter Wurst (Austrian sausage), but you can also order stuff like spare ribs and burgers, plus they have a great beer selection. This budget restaurant chain serves XXL portions , so you won’t need to order more than one dish per person. They have 4 locations in total, with two of them located within a walking distance from the city center.

Spend the night in the NeuBau District

The Viennese 7 th district, NeuBau , is at the moment the trendiest local spot and the most exciting area to spend the night in Vienna. This vibrant neighborhood is packed with trendy cafes, independent boutiques, art galleries and museums and offers plenty of things to do in Vienna at night. In summer, you’ll find crowds at the courtyard of the MuseumQuarter , a huge museum complex that houses Vienna’s top museums.

If you’re into spending a night at a cozy bar, check out places like R&Bar , Le Troquet, Radio, The LabelBar . On the top floor of the 25 Hour Hotel, Dachboden bar will welcome you with a great cocktail selection and a spectacular panoramic view. DonauTecho brings late night drinking and partying until the early hours to the techo beats accompanied with great visuals.

Prater Park – Vienna with Kids

In case you’re spending your day in Vienna with kids, nightlife is not an option. Instead of spending your night in Vienna exploring its bars and clubs, head to Prater park , the oldest amusement park in the world featuring all sorts of fun attractions. The famous Wiener Riesenrad is a 65 meter high Ferris Wheel and one of the city’s most popular landmarks. Both adults and kids will enjoy the exciting 10-minute ride with the breathtaking 360 ° panoramic view which gets even more exciting at night.  Skip the line by getting your ticket here .

Where to stay in Vienna?

TIP: Get best hotel deals in Vienna here .

Hotel Kärntnerhof

Grashofgasse 4, 01. Innere Stadt, 1010 Vienna

Very comfortable and with a dash of Italian design, Hotel Kärntnerhof offers fantastic value. It is located right in the city centre, but is secluded from the crowds and the noise. You’ll get a buffet breakfast every day, and if the weather is nice you can enjoy the roof terrace, too. Shopping streets, underground stations and numerous attractions are all nearby, so practically all you have to do is get out and you’ll experience Vienna to the fullest.

BOOK A ROOM HERE

Hotel Beethoven Wien

Papagenogasse 6, 06. Mariahilf, 1060 Vienna

Hotel Beethoven Wien is in a quiet street, but still located at the very heart of Vienna. The building dates from 1902, but the rooms are very much modern and quite elegant. However, no smoking is allowed in them. What will surely leave an impression on you is the fact that a free concert of classical music is held every Saturday and Sunday at 6 pm, plus you get a glass of champaign to go along with it. It’s quite an experience.

Hotel Schani Salon

Mariahilfer Straße 58, 07. Neubau, 1070 Vienna

Small, but very comfortable and cozy, Hotel Schani Salon boasts four stars and a fantastic location. It is on Mariahilfer Strasse, which is Vienna’s main shopping destination. Not only that, but it also has a metro station right in front of it and is just 10 minutes away from the Ringstrasse boulevard. The rooms are airy with plenty of natural light, and they serve continental and buffet breakfasts here.

wombat’s CITY Hostels Vienna – Naschmarkt

Rechte Wienzeile 35, 04. Wieden, 1040 Vienna

In a great location and just a couple of minutes away from a metro station, wombat’s CITY Hostels Vienna – Naschmarkt is a perfect place to stay for young travelers who want to explore the city. They will even throw in a map free of charge! Apart from that, you get comfortable beds, great breakfast and the chance to meet people from all over the world at the hostel’s bar. What more could you ask for?

Extra tips for visiting Vienna

Even though most of Vienna’s main attractions are within walking distance , it’s good to know that Vienna’s public transportation is very efficient, so use metro and trams instead of spending loads of money on taxi rides.

Vienna is considered to be an expensive city , especially for travelers from Eastern Europe. However, there are many free things to do in Vienna , some of them covered in this itinerary (Belvedere gardens, Naschmarkt, Christmas Market, a night out at the MuseumQuarter).

Tipping in bars and restaurants is not mandatory, but it’s customary to round up the bill or to tip 7-12%.

Should you need help with getting around town, booking tickets, tips on what to visit or anything of the sort, don’t hesitate to contact Welcome . They offer a superb service which is guaranteed to make your visit to Vienna a fantastic one.

PIN FOR LATER!

If you have any other propositions for this One Day in Vienna Itinerary, feel free to share it in the comments below!

Make sure you have everything you need

What to pack for your next trip.

Make your next trip as simple and as enjoyable as possible by packing smart. It’s amazing how much stress top travel items can save you, so choose carefully. Things like lightweight travel backpacks, for example, are ideal for short trips and allow you to move around with ease, and a passport holder will make sure you keep your documents safe at all times. Check our travel checklist guide for 2021 to make sure you haven’t missed anything, and travel to your next destination in style and with maximum comfort.

Related posts:

Anca is a travel writer and the founder of One Day Itinerary - the biggest collection of travel itineraries for those who are time-limited or just want to maximize their time while traveling. Although she easily becomes homesick for Croatia, she thinks travel is essential to her happiness. She has traveled to more countries than she is years old and doesn’t plan on changing that fact. In her travel guides she aims to inspire people to travel whenever they have a spare day (or two).

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of follow-up comments by email.

Notify me of new posts by email.

One Day in Vienna Itinerary: 10 Things to See in Vienna in a Day

Love it? Share it!

Vienna is one of the most beautiful and architecturally rich cities we have visited. We enjoyed our stay in the city and have highlighted 10 spots worth seeing and adding to your one day in Vienna itinerary. 

There is royalty and mesmerizing art in every little corner of the city. These sightseeing spots in Vienna are very close to each other and well-connected, making it perfect for exploring Vienna in a day. You can take a local transit or a cab to reach one spot and walk down to explore the other areas.

A clean city, Vienna, Austria , also has great cafes and unbelievably well-dressed people, and you can hop on a horse-drawn carriage to explore the city – an experience that will take you to its rich past.

Most of these spots are free to visit from the outside unless you wish to explore the inside of the palaces/complexes with a guided tour. Some of the monuments and complexes are living quarters and are currently in use by high dignitaries and/or set up as museums.  

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you click one of them, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.

We have visited Vienna several times, most recently as part of our Eurail Pass adventure. Vienna is pretty; one day is enough to explore the Inner City attractions. if you plan it well and spend 24 hours, you can include stops like the Viennese Prater. 

Here is a quick peak into the Vienna 1 day itinerary,

One Day in Vienna itinerary: Things to do in Vienna in a day (at a glance)

• Take a tour of the Schönbrunn Palace
• Explore the Hofburg Palace
• Visit Heldenplatz – a public square in inner Stadt
• Explore Maria-Theresien-Platz
• Lunch in the inner city
• Head to the St Stephen’s Cathedral
• Visit the St Peter’s Church
• Stroll the Graben Vienna
• Admire the Hundertwasserhaus or Hundertwasser House
• Ride the Viennese Giant Ferris Wheel or the Viennese Prater

There are a few convenient ways to explore Vienna in a day. All three options are equally great; it just depends on your travel style – which suits you best

🖤 Visiting Vienna for 2 days? Read our  2 days in Vienna itinerary here

• Vienna Pass 1 to 6 days of Sightseeing – This is the ULTIMATE sightseeing tool in Vienna Vienna Pass. This pass includes free admission to over 60 attractions, unlimited hop-on and hop-off sightseeing tours, and a guidebook to the city. Book a one day in Vienna pass here
• Vienna Hop on and Hop off Sightseeing with a guided city Tour – Vienna Hop on and Hop off sightseeing tour is a convenient way to hit all the sightseeing spots in Vienna in a day. Because you only have one day in Vienna – hop-on and off services will take you to the main tourist sights. This sightseeing bus is not intrusive (it doesn’t include entry to attractions or guides) but includes a guided walking tour to learn about the history of Vienna in the old town. Book a Vienna hop on/off tour
• Vienna City Card – 1 to 2-day Vienna City Card gives you free public transportation for the day (or two). It doesn’t include travel to the airport as it is located outside of city limits. You can get discounted tickets to the Hofburg Palace and Schonbrunn Palace. Buy a Vienna City Card here

🖤 Here’s an extra one day in Vienna item to consider: 

Vienna is known for its palaces, Austrian wines , cafes, and sweet foods, so definitely check them out on your one-day trip to Vienna. BUT….there are 3 impressive palaces to see, and you only have 1 day, so you have to prioritize and choose! 

We could easily do 2 palaces in a day, but the third one might be a stretch if you plan to visit other tourist attractions.

The 3 popular palaces are – Schonbrunn Palace, Hofburg Palace, and the Belvedere Palace. 

We recommend including Schonbrunn Palace in your day’s itinerary (more on that below). Between the Hofburg Palace and the Belvedere Palace – Hofburg is in a GREAT location (inner Stadt or inner-city) and is just a stone’s throw away from other sightseeing areas.

The Belvedere Palace is known for its collection of Gustav Klimt paintings, including The Kiss and Judith, one of the world’s largest. It is, however, located a little outside of the inner city. 

Starting your one day Vienna Itinerary

Start your day bright and early in Vienna. If you arrive in Vienna from a nearby city or country, you will find cafes and restaurants on your way to the sightseeing locations. Viennese coffee is amazing.

If you are flying to Vienna, of course, Vienna airport will have breakfast options for you. Get airport transfers from Vienna airport here – CAT

Our first stop for the day is the Schonbrunn Palace, and the palace complex has a cafeteria as well, for breakfast or light snacks.

1. Schonbrunn Palace – the most popular palace to see in Vienna in a day

Schonbrunn Palace is the most popular tourist spot in Vienna. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is rightly so because of its rich cultural history and association with the Hapsburg royalty. 

Built in the early 18th century, this gorgeous yellow-colored palace reflects the changing styles and interests of the Hapsburg dynasty.

The Schonbrunn Palace, in its present form, was built and re-designed during the reign of Empress Maria Theresa, who received the estate as a wedding gift. 

Maria Theresa was an able leader, and during her reign, she popularized yellow as a color of royalty. But the reality was that the color yellow was economical and readily available.

You can easily spend 3-5 hours at the Schönbrunn palace complex. There is a guided tour available to explore the interior of the beautiful palace. 

We recommend starting the day with the Schönbrunn Palace after breakfast. Keep in mind they have 1441 rooms! Book a guided tour of the Schonbrunn Palace and Gardens 

The sculpted garden is beautiful and is adorned by 32 sculptures of deities. There are picturesque Roman ruins located in the palace complex as well.

One of my favorite sights is the Neptune Fountain, with Gloriette in the background. The Gloriette was erected to glorify the Hapsburg rule. It adds a romantic feel to the entire place, and you can get amazing views of Vienna from the Gloriette.

Schonbrunn Palace is open daily, including public holidays. There are cafes, restaurants, and museums in the palace complex. This site is completely accessible to all tourists.

Schonbrunn Palace has a popular Apple strudel show – Viennese Strudelshow in the bakery of Café Residenz. (The show, along with a sample piece of apple strudel, are included in Vienna Pass).

It is popular because you get to see how the original Viennese Apple Strudel is made (right in front of your eyes) from the imperial bakery and also taste it. The show lasts 15- 20 minutes and is open daily from 11:00 am to 04:00 pm. Book your apple strudel show here (without the Vienna Pass) .

2. Hofburg Palace – the iconic landmark

The Hofburg Palace is located in the old town of Vienna or the inner city (inner Stadt – 1st district in Vienna), where you will spend most of the one day in Vienna.

The Hofburg Palace is the imperial seat of the Hapsburg Dynasty in Austria. Every inch of this palace drips in luxury and royalty. The outside of the palace is as beautiful as the inside. 

A lot of history has happened in this palace, which had served as the prime residence for Empress Maria Theresa, Emperor Franz II, and, for a while, even the German Emperor.

The complex is spread over 59 acres and comprises 18 groups of buildings, close to 20 courtyards, and around 2600 rooms. The complex showcases the legacy of rich and different architectural history – nearly every Austrian ruler since 1275 had ordered additions or alterations.

Guided tours are available to tour the palace complex. Visitors are given three choices when visiting this spectacular site – the Imperial Apartments, the Sisi Museum, and the Silver Collection – each can be toured individually or as part of an extended visit.

Other attractions are included as well, along with the Hofburg, which includes the Imperial Chapel (Burgkapelle), the Natural History Museum (Naturhistorisches Museum), the Austrian National Library, and the Spanish Riding School.

There is also a Sisi Museum at the palace, and it’s worth a visit. Sisi, or Elisabeth, was the Empress of Austria. She has gone down in history as an empress of eternal youthfulness and beauty. 

For over three decades, she was regarded as the most beautiful queen in Europe .

A fun fact about Sisi is that she believed in natural beauty and never used cosmetics or fragrances. She relied on natural remedies. Her beautiful brunette hair was beautiful and very long. 

She would spend about 2 hours a day fixing and caring for her hair. There are exhibitions conducted at the Imperial Palace that highlight the lives of the Hapsburgs, including Sisi.

The Hofburg Palace is iconic to the city of Vienna. The Hofburg is an architectural marvel that showcases many different architectural styles, from Gothic to Renaissance, Baroque to Rococo, and a bit of Classicism. 

Learn about the history of the Hapsburg in a Vienna walking tour (2 hours)

After checking off the Hofburg Palace, stroll on the Vienna Ring Road – this circular boulevard around the historic Innere Stadt (or inner city). By doing so, you will be able to visit most of the sightseeing stops listed in the center. 

3. Heldenplatz – public square in inner stadt

Heldenplatz is a public space located in front of the Hofburg Palace. This square was set up as a Heroes Square. 

There is a statue of Archduke Charles of Austria, which was meant to glorify the Habsburg dynasty. There are other statues, too, including the one of Prince Eugene of Savoy. 

Many important actions and events took place in Heroes Square. Adolf Hitler’s ceremonial announcement of the Austrian Anschluss to Nazi Germany occurred here.

The present-day Heldenplatz on the former outer plaza of the Hofburg was built under the reign of Emperor Francis Joseph. The President of Austria currently resides in one of the Hofburg complex wings.

During our visit, there was a police recognition ceremony that was underway, and the complex had quite a few police vehicles in it.

4. Explore Maria-Theresien-Platz

Maria-Theresien-Platz is a large public square in Vienna built in honor of Hapsburg Empress – Maria Theresa. 

There is a huge statue of the Empress, flanked by two museums on each side. These buildings are identical – the Naturhistorisches Museum (Natural History Museum), and the Kunsthistorisches Museum, aka Art History Museum. 

The buildings are nearly identical, except for the statuary on their facades.

The Maria Theresa Monument is probably the most important monument with the construction that lasted 13 years. The statue is about 19 metres high and is surrounded by 4 horseman statues. It can be seen across the road as you proceed to the complex. 

Beautiful gardens in and around the monument make it a perfect place for a stroll or a picnic.

Maria Theresa Platz is classified as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site. The legacy of Maria Theresa is phenomenal – her stories of grit and tact are discussed even today. 

She reformed the school system, cared for the state affairs in a remarkable capacity, and cared for her 16 children. Talk about home and work-life balance for a woman. Amazingly done, I say!

Optional Palace no 3: Belvedere Palace

For one day in Vienna, choose 2 of the 3 most popular palaces to make the most of your day and capture other sightseeing spots. Belvedere Palace is another beautiful landmark worth visiting. 

The Belvedere Palace is a historic complex in Vienna located about 30 minutes from the inner city area. 

The complex grounds comprise two Baroque palaces – the Upper Belvedere (with stunning interiors and a museum) and the Lowe Belvedere (consisting of the Orangery and the Palace Stables). These buildings are set in a Baroque park landscape and have a Belvedere museum with permanent exhibitions on display.

The Belvedere served as the summer residence of Prince Eugene of Savoy, who built it as his summer residence. He was an accomplished general and art connoisseur. His apartments and staterooms are located at the Lower Belvedere. 

The Lower Belvedere and the Orangery are mainly used for temporary exhibitions, and the Palace Stables showcases 150 objects of sacred medieval art.

The Belvedere Palace is known for its collection of Gustav Klimt paintings, including Kiss and Judith, one of the world’s largest. It is located in the upper Belvedere. The Palace Gardens are equally stunning and feature beautiful sculptures, fountains, and cascades. Get entrance tickets to the Belvedere Palace

5. Lunch in the inner city

Well, if you decide to stay back in the inner city, then it is a great time for lunch (or brunch) before exploring more of the inner stadt.

Let me tell you, you will find TONS of a variety of restaurants (expensive and budget eats, including Starbucks and other fast-food chains), street cafes, open-air cafes, and fine eating options to choose from.

We decided to eat (and drink coffee) from Aida – a common coffee and bakery shop in Vienna. Their Sachertorte was delicious.

After a food break, explore more of the inner city – starting with St Stephen’s Cathedral. 

You can also cover the next 3 stops (St Stephen’s Cathedral, St Peters Church, and Graben) before lunch, as most of the open cafes and fine restaurants are located near the Graben.

6. Visit St Stephen’s Cathedral

One of Vienna’s most iconic landmarks is the St Stephen’s Cathedral. The Cathedral is located at Stephenplatz, 1010 Vienna, providing visitors with the stunning architecture of the Hapsburg and other Austrian rulers. 

The cathedral has stood the test of time. It has watched over the city for more than 300 years. 

The Giant Gate dates back to the 13th century and is one of the oldest parts of the cathedral. The cathedral is decorated with Baroque altarpieces in the name of St. Stephen, the first martyr of Christendom.

There is an underground burial place that contains the mausoleum of the bishops, the tombs of Duke Rudolph the Founder, and other members of the Habsburg family. It is also the home to treasured art pieces like the red-marble sepulcher. 

Austria’s largest bell, the Boomer Bell, is located in the north tower of the cathedral.

The South Tower’s observation deck is the highest point in Vienna. You can enjoy some of the finest views in all of Vienna from here. 

A climb of 343 steps of the tight spiral staircase leads up to the watchman’s lookout, 246 feet above the street level. The entire cathedral complex area is also called the Stephansplatz (named after St Stephen’s Cathedral or Stephensdom).

Aren’t these multi-colored roof tiles the prettiest? They shine under the sunlight!

Read: Most beautiful churches in Vienna

7. St Peter’s Church

We accidentally passed by this beautiful baroque church in Vienna. It’s called the Peterskirche or St Peter’s Church. This important church has a long history dating back to the Middle Ages. 

The church looks stunning with its beautiful green colored dome. What was most interesting was the intricate details in the church’s interior. You will see an attractive high altar and several side altars with beautiful religious works of art. There are remarkable frescos inside as well.

You will definitely pass by this place when you wander out and about and cover attractions like the Hofburg Palace, Graben, or even the St Stephen’s Basilica. This church is not crowded, making it an excellent spot for a quiet stroll, photography, etc

Or take a horse-drawn carriage to this church and click amazing shots! Book a musical concert at the St Peters Church for the evening

8. Stroll the Graben Vienna – the main shopping street in the inner city

The Graben Vienna is an upscale and trendy shopping street in the heart of the inner city. What is unique about this street is that the area is lined with a plague column. The origin of this street dates back to the old Romans.

Due to its close proximity to St  Stephen’s Cathedral and the Hofburg Palace, this street has served as a shopping district since ancient times. There are 5 divisions/shopping areas with the Graben. And they include Stephansplatz, Kohlmarkt, Naglergasse, Tuchlauben, and Petersplatz.

The plague column dates back to the 17th century and is made of marble. You can see unique structures as you walk along the market area. Make sure you visit their Swarovski store – their window displays are gorgeous and all sparkly! 

There is an H&M store located in a splendid room of a former court.

Talk about royalty! Oh, and the people in Vienna are so well-dressed and handsome.

I recommend visiting this area during the day and in the evening. Daytime is great for shopping, people-watching, or even admiring the beautiful buildings and sculptures and reading about the city’s past. 

Visit this place in the evening to enjoy leisure time at a side cafe or an open restaurant with live music. The city shines under the moon’s (and neon’s) lights. Very beautiful .

9. Admire the Hundertwasserhaus or Hundertwasser House

Let’s proceed to some of the attractions in the other districts of Vienna from the city center or inner city. 

Staring with Hundertwasserhaus. The drive to Hundertwasserhaus is about 12- 15 minutes from the inner city. Or if you are on the hop-on and hop-off sightseeing bus, you will see this on your way in and out of the city center loop.

A unique form of art and architecture, the Hundertwasserhaus is an apartment building located in Vienna. This is unique as it was built after the idea and concept of Austrian artist Friedensreich Hundertwasser. 

The outer landscape is multi-colored, hap-hazard, and uneven, making it an interesting piece of art. This expressionist landmark is located in the Landstraße district on the corner of Kegelgasse and Lowengasse in Vienna. Don’t miss this popular Vienna tourist attraction.

The last item on the list for the day is the Giant Ferris Wheel – Prater amusement park in Vienna.

10. Viennese Giant Ferris Wheel or the Viennese Prater

Viennese Giant Ferris Wheel, or the Viennese Prater, is an amusement park in Vienna. The distance from the city center to the Prater is about 15 minutes.

It is located in Vienna’s 2nd district. The Wurstelprater, which is an amusement park, is an iconic symbol of Vienna, and it includes the Wiener Riesenrad Ferris wheel. 

The park is open daily from 09:00 am to midnight (with the main season running from mid-March to the end of October).

Book your tickets to the Giant Ferris Wheel in Vienna

Indulge in some comfort food, enjoy some rides, and fall in LOVE with Vienna. You can see the amazing night lights from the rides at the Prater.

Other sightseeing options for One day in Vienna itinerary

Karlskirche Karlsplatz in Vienna

Karlskirche, or the St Charles Church, is a beautiful baroque church in Vienna. It is located on the edge of the Innere Stadt and is characterized by a turquoise-blue dome with 4 pillars. 

The church is dedicated to Saint Charles Borromeo – a Roman archbishop from Milan.

Karlsplatz is also known as the art nouveau paradise. There aren’t that many, but if you wander to Karlsplatz or the Naschmarkt train station, you will see some art nouveau buildings along the way. The Art Nouveau movement blossomed in Vienna at the turn of the 20th Century. The secession art museum is worth visiting if you are an art nouveau enthusiast.

Vienna State Opera House 

Wiener Staatsoper, or the Vienna State Opera, is an Austrian Opera house. This opera house is one of the busiest in the world, with over 350 performances conducted in the 2017/18 season. 

It was opened for the first time in 1869 with a performance of Mozart’s “Don Giovanni.” So when you step into the opera house or book tickets for the opera, you enjoy a slice of rich Austrian history. 

The Vienna State Opera is particularly unique as it caters to children’s performances. The opera house was used to showcase children’s productions in the bygone era, which were performed in a tent on the roof of the Staatsoper.

Presently, the opera house has an opera school for boys and girls. The children are introduced to music theater and the prospect of becoming opera singers. The company recruits singers from this opera school for children’s roles in its productions. 

Twice every season, the opera school has a special matinee performance. So don’t miss it!

Book your tickets and learn more about Vienna State Opera shows, or book a dinner, musical concert, and horse-drawn carriage ride .

Johann Strauss Building – Vienna in a day

Vienna is a city of music lovers. This apartment building located in Praterstraße 54, 1020 Vienna, used to be the residential unit of Johann Strauss’s son. This is where he wrote his most famous composition (the Blue Danube Waltz), which is also the unofficial Austrian national anthem.

This building houses original furniture and instruments, including objects that were used in the daily life of the great musician, as well as paintings, photographs, and documents about his life and work.

There is also a museum – the Museum of the Johann Strauss Dynasty, which is the first museum in the world to present the family history and creative works of the entire Strauss family. 

The music of the “Strausses” has never lost its sheen. Their waltz and operetta melodies still resound in concert houses in Austria and worldwide. The museum is located at Müllnergasse 3, 1090 Vienna.

Christmas Markets in Vienna – One day in Vienna winter

If you visit Vienna from November to December (until Christmas) in winter, then definitely visit the Christmas market at the Rathaus Platz (or the City Hall Square). Christkindlmarkt at Rathausplatz is said to be Europe’s finest. Find what Vienna looks like during Christmas

Sightseeing Map – Things to see in Vienna in one day  

Here is a 1 day in Vienna sightseeing map for your trip. 

One Day in Vienna Austria Guide – Travel Tips

Here are some quick tips to help you prepare for your trip to Vienna. Vienna is easily connected to the rest of the world by train, road, and airways. We arrived in Vienna from Prague by road.

Travel Documents

Vienna Austria belongs to the Eurozone of countries, which means that if you require a visa to visit the Schengen list of countries, Vienna is one of them. Ensure you have an approved visa before landing in Vienna. 

EU nationals are visa-exempt. Citizens of the US and Canada can stay up to 90 days without a visa.

If this is your first trip to Europe, read our extensive guide here

Getting to the Vienna City Center from the Airport

Vienna International Airport is the busiest airport in Austria, serving as a major hub for international and domestic flights. Located just 20 km (12.5 miles) from Vienna’s city center, it offers convenient transportation options to reach the heart of the city.

The most popular and efficient way to get from Vienna airport to the city center is by train. 

The City Airport Train (CAT) is a direct train service that takes only 16 minutes to reach the city center. It runs every 30 minutes and costs €5 for a one-way ticket. You can purchase tickets online, at the airport, or directly on board the train.

Another option is to take the S-Bahn (line S7), which is operated by ÖBB (Austrian Federal Railways). These trains take around 25 minutes to reach the city center. The fare for a one-way ticket is €4.40, which can be purchased at the airport or on board the train.

Several bus options are available from the airport to Vienna’s city center. The Vienna Airport Lines buses offer a comfortable and affordable option, with routes to major locations in the city. 

Buses depart every 30 minutes, taking around 20-25 minutes to reach the city center. The fare for a one-way ticket is €9 to €16, which can be purchased at the airport or directly on board the bus. 

Alternatively, you can also take the Postbus line 1183, which runs every hour and takes around 30 minutes to reach the city center (Vienna Meidling and Westbahnhof train stations). The fare for a one-way ticket is €4, which can be purchased at the airport or from the bus driver.

Taxis are available outside Vienna airport’s arrivals hall and offer a convenient but more expensive option to reach the city center. A typical taxi ride to the city center takes around 20 minutes and costs between €36-€50, depending on traffic and the exact location in the city.

If you prefer to drive yourself, several car rental companies are located at Vienna airport. The drive from the airport to the city center takes around 25 minutes. 

However, it is important to note that parking in the city center can be difficult and expensive, so this option may not be recommended if you plan to stay in the city for an extended trip. 

Travel Insurance

Always insure your trips against trip cancellations and delays. Get a quote here

Get a free quote for Safety Wing Travel Insurance

Tips for 8 hours in vienna or vienna in half a day.

If you visit Vienna for only 8 hours or half a day, we recommend staying in the inner city and making the most of your time there. Visit the Hofburg Palace and museums, Opera House, Stephen’s Cathedral, St Peter’s Church, Graben, and taste Sachertorte at any cafe in the inner city. 

Hotels in Vienna: Where to stay in Vienna for the first time

Extending your stay in Vienna ? For a night’s stay, we chose the Trend Austria Hotel . We loved the location as it is close to Vienna city center or the old town and can be accessed via the Rathaus Underground Station (public transportation). Book your stay here

Here are some additional hotel recommendations for Vienna (inner city),

• Grand Hotel Wien – This is one of the prettiest hotels in the inner city district and is only a 3-minute walk from the Vienna State Opera and the famous Kärntner Straße Shopping Street. The suites are grand and beautifully decorated with elegant furniture, and the property boasts multiple restaurants and bars on site.
• Park Hyatt Vienna – Park Hyatt Vienna is one of the luxurious hotels overlooking Am Hof Square. It is housed in a 100-year-old building but is filled with modern amenities. Its location is convenient and perfect for sightseeing. 
• The Guesthouse Vienna – There is so much at this hotel that will make your stay in Vienna all the more pleasant, from the city views to the spacious rooms and the thoughtful touches that each guest is given. 

More hotels Vienna –  To find the best hotel deals in town, we recommend using  Booking.com   to find accommodation.

Day Trips from Vienna 

Looking for day trips from Vienna? We ventured on a few day trips out of Vienna during our visit. Here are some options to consider

Wachau Valley in Lower Danube Austria –  The lower Danube is very picturesque and makes for an easy day trip from Vienna. Read about our trip to the Wachau and Danube Valleys. You can also book a day tour of the Wachau Valley

Bratislava Slovakia – Vienna is only an hour away from the capital of Bratislava. You can easily explore the city on a day trip from Vienna to Bratislava. Book a day tour to Bratislava, Slovakia . 

Salzburg Austria – Vienna to Salzburg is about 2 hours by train, and you can enrich your Austrian vacation by taking a trip there. We stayed for 2 days in Salzburg and thoroughly enjoyed our time there. 

Read our 14 day Europe Itinerary that includes time in Vienna, Austria. 

Is one day in Vienna enough?

Is 1 day in Vienna enough? Vienna is not a huge city, so you can cover a lot of ground in a day. Our one-day Vienna itinerary listed above can be easily done in a day or less. 

As we highlighted in our pro-tips section, pick 2 palaces instead of 3 to make a comfortable day of sightseeing rather than being rushed through. 

We hope you found this post helpful in creating a list of places to visit in Vienna in 1 day.

READ OUR EUROPE TRAVEL GUIDES

• Europe 101  – Our introductory guide to  planning a trip to Europe.
• European Bucket list  –  Epic 101 Europe travel bucket list ideas
• Europe Itinerary Samples  – Want to make the most of your visit to Europe?  This is the ultimate 27 itinerary samples to plan your sightseeing in one or multiple destinations in Europe.
• Visiting Europe in winter  –  Here are some of the best traveler picks.
• Warm places in Europe?  –  Here are the warmest places to visit in Europe from December through March.
• Europe Packing Guide  –  This is the only packing guide to Europe you will ever need . 

Pin: What to see in Vienna in One Day itinerary

Mayuri is the founder & editor of ToSomePlaceNew. An Indian-Canadian globetrotter, she has traveled to over 100 cities and 40+ countries.

Mayuri has a graduate degree in History and is an MBA. She loves traveling the world particularly Europe, capturing historical nuances, and discussing that over a cup of coffee with her husband, Salil. 

She has lived in Portugal, Canada and India.

Similar Posts

Northern Morocco Itinerary 7 days for first time visitors

After waiting, debating and planning for 2 years, we finally landed in Morocco and had an enjoyable experience. Here is our ultimate guide to Northern Morocco Itinerary 7 days with travel tips and day trip options and suggestions for extending your trip. Moroccan cities are colorful and you will surely enjoy a cultural and historical…

Rome in a day: Epic One day in Rome itinerary

“Rome is the city of echoes, the city of illusions, and the city of yearning”, said Giotto di Bondone (Renaissance painter). Truly long after you have explored the Eternal City, you will be still dreaming and longing to be back. If you only have one day in Rome, you will want to soak in all…

Best Rome and Amalfi Coast Itinerary: 7 days in Italy

Are you dreaming of 7 days in Italy trip that combines the historic and cultural wonders of Rome with the stunning coastal views of the Amalfi Coast? This Rome and Amalfi Coast itinerary 7 days will also check off the Vatican City and the landmark Pompeii archaeological site.  So let’s go! Rome and Amalfi Coast…

Prague Vienna Budapest Itinerary 10 days: Central Europe

One of the most affordable, and culturally intriguing destinations is in Central Europe. In this Prague Vienna Budapest itinerary 10 days, we will share how you can make the most of your visit exploring cities with rich history, stunning architecture, medieval town squares, traditions, and culinary delights.  Prague Vienna Budapest Itinerary 10 days + Tips…

One Day in Budapest Itinerary: See Budapest in a day

One of the stunning European cities, Budapest has been attracting travelers for decades. The capital city of Hungary is laced with tons of history, UNESCO heritage sites, and ruin bars; it is also gastronomic heaven! Here’s the perfect one day in Budapest itinerary and how to make the most of your time! One Day in…

One Week in Europe Trip Itinerary (30 epic samples)

Europe has been our favorite continent of travel. The cobblestone lanes and the unparalleled history just pull us to visit this continent time and again. In this post – One week in Europe Trip Itinerary – we have curated 30 itineraries that you can explore in a week. We understand vacation days are limited, so…

24 Comments

Such a great post! Thanks for putting this together, very useful!

Thanks so much! Glad you found this useful 🙂

I am in love with Palaces! Cant believe you saw all this. I really need to make a trip to Europe. I have only been to Sweden believe it or not!

I was so excited, Austria was my 3rd European country that I traveled to! All the palaces are so beautiful!

I was in Vienna a couple of years ago on a field trip from the university. But I need to go back and see it again. Thanks for reminding my great time there

Time for re-visit <3

Vienna is so beautiful! I was there for a few days in 2015, and I’m hoping to go back next year. Do you think I could fit all these amazing spots into one day?

You can definitely cover quite a few of these areas. Go for the Hofburg Palace in the morning, then head to the Maria-Theresa-Platz, Heldenplatz. And then in the late afternoon/evening head to St Stephen’s Basilica and the Graben. It will be difficult to do guided tours as it takes 2-3 hours in each of the palaces. But you can cover Hofburg and Schonbrunn Palace from outside and capture some great pictures Have fun in Vienna

I’ve been to Vienna a couple of months ago and loved it! I did exactly the same things:) Such a fancy and beautiful city! Also pricey. But the St Charles church was my favorite one. Sooo stunning!

That’s true, the city is stunning, but accommodation in certain areas could be pricey. We were able to see quite a few places by keeping our shopping and food bills a little low!

Ahh I want to see all of these in one day! Stunning list, and you have gorgeous photos as well. Makes me excited to see the city one day

Thanks so much! Appreciate that 🙂 I hope you can make it to Vienna one day and tick these off your travel bucketlist Happy Travels 🙂

Vienna looks like such a great city! I’ve never been but it’s high up on my list when I next get the chance. I love all the architecture but the colours in the Hundertwasserhaus really made me gape! Thanks for sharing.

You are welcome! I am sure you will love this beautiful city! I highly recommend

I missed Hundertwasserhaus when I was in Vienna. I had to take tram nr. and I was just too tired to do that too. Have you seen the Lipizaners, at the Spanish Riding School? It is a great tradition in Vienna. However, they are very strict and don’t let you take photos of them.

I did see the horses from the Riding School, but didn’t cover the Lipizaners. Did you see it, must be wonderful?

Wow these sites are incredible! The architecture is stunning. I was so close to going to Vienna when I was in Central Europe and opted to spend more time in Germany. Regret it a little now!

Oh no! You should plan to visit Vienna I am sure you will fall in love. Plan for extra days to cover places like Salzburg and Hallstatt, you wont be disappointed

The HofBurg Palace is absolutly stunning! Would for sure love to take a tour to see the insides and am definitely getting the Vienna City Card too if and when I visit. Also, Hundertwasserhaus looks so Instagrammable! You’re so right in that the architecture is just eye-opening!

The entire area around the Hofburg Palace is so stunning – whether its night or day. I highly recommend visiting this area and taking a guided trip inside the palace. A horse-carriage ride would be an amazing too! I say, go for it!

Vienna is one of my bucket-list places to go to, mostly for its connection with music and Mozart. Thanks for showing me that there’s so much more to it. Some of these neighbourhoods are just lovely.

Absolutely Vienna has such a lovely ambiance where ever you go. Their neighborhood squares and cafes are so stunning too!

Thanks for all the information, staying in Budapest for Christmas 2022 and going to Vienna by train on 27th for the full day early start late finish, your guide will be a great help. Thanks Pete

So glad to hear Pete! Enjoy your trip!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .