Top Vienna Attractions You Can't Miss

Vienna, also known as Wien in German, is the capital of Austria. More than that, however, Vienna is a city steeped in rich history, culture, and breathtaking architecture. Whether you are a history buff or someone simply looking to soak in the charm of the city, Vienna offers an array of attractions that should be on every traveler's list. In this blog post, we will explore some of the top Vienna attractions that capture the essence of this beautiful city.

Top Vienna Attractions

To keep things manageable, we will focus on five of the top Vienna attractions. While there is so much more to see in this incredible city, if you are planning a short stay in Vienna, these highlights will ensure your time is well spent.

St. Stephen's Cathedral (Stephansdom) 

No visit to Vienna is complete without stepping inside the magnificent St. Stephen's Cathedral. As one of the most recognizable landmarks in the city, this Gothic masterpiece has stood at the heart of Vienna for centuries. The cathedral's towering spire, colorfully tiled roof, intricate façade, and stunning interiors make it one of the top Vienna attractions.

The interior of St. Stephen’s Cathedral is a marvel of Gothic architecture, filled with exquisite details that reflect both the artistic grandeur and spiritual significance of the space. As you step inside, the vastness of the cathedral is immediately apparent, with soaring vaulted ceilings and an impressive array of altars, chapels, and intricate stonework that captivates the eye. This rich interior detail is a key reason why St. Stephen’s Cathedral remains one of the top Vienna attractions, drawing more than a million visitors each year from all over the world.

One of the most prominent features of the cathedral's interior is the High Altar, completed in the mid-17th century. This Baroque masterpiece is the focal point of the cathedral's interior, standing majestically in the chancel. The altar is richly adorned with sculptures and reliefs depicting the stoning of St. Stephen, the cathedral’s patron saint, and is surrounded by a stunning gilded altarpiece. The detailed craftsmanship of the High Altar, with its vivid colors and dynamic composition, draws visitors into a powerful visual narrative of faith and devotion.

Nearby, the sandstone pulpit of St. Stephen’s, attributed to the master craftsman Anton Pilgram, is another highlight. This intricately carved pulpit is a true Gothic gem, with detailed figures of the Four Fathers of the Church—Saint Augustine of Hippo, Saint Ambrose, Saint Jerome, and Saint Gregory the Great—depicted around the base. The pulpit is also notable for its spiral staircase, which is adorned with delicate, lace-like stonework that seems almost impossibly light. Beneath the staircase hides one of the most beloved features of St. Stephen's Cathedral: an enigmatic self-portrait of a sculptor, peering out from a window, a unique personal signature in this monumental work. Today, there is debate around the identity of this sculptor. While some believe it may be Anton Pilgram himself, others believe it was another stonemason who worked on the project.  

Another self-portrait hides in plain sight inside St. Stephen's Cathedral, most certainly depicting Anton Pilgram himself. It can be found near the entrance to the North Tower (Pummerin). Be sure to look up!

Unfortunately St. Stephen's Cathedral sustained significant damage during World War II, including a collapsed roof and a burned out interior. While the cathedral was actually spared from the Allied bombing campaigns in Vienna, fire spread from nearby buildings that had been set ablaze at the end of the war in 1945. Reconstruction started shortly after the end of the war and the cathedral reopened to the public in 1952. In addition to losing the original timber roof, the original medieval stained glass windows were largely destroyed during World War II. However, the post-war replacements bring a new vibrancy to the space. These modern stained glass windows feature pastel colors (often referred to as "Tupperware-colored glass"), which contrast beautifully with the Gothic architecture, creating a dynamic interplay of light and shadow within the cathedral. Some of the original Gothic windows can still be seen in the cathedral, particularly surrounding the High Altar. 

The Roof of St. Stephen's Cathedral

The roof of St. Stephen’s Cathedral is one of its most striking features of the cathedral itself, recognized around the world for its distinctive, colorful tile patterns. With approximately 230,000 glazed roof tiles, the roof is a masterpiece of design, adding to the cathedral’s unique and iconic silhouette in the Vienna skyline.

The roof’s vibrant design features beautiful geometric patterns in shades of green, black, white, and yellow. On the south side, the roof showcases two eagles, one holding the coat of arms of the City of Vienna and the other holding the coat of arms of the Republic of Austria. The year 1950 is displayed below them. One of the most impressive aspects of the roof is its sheer scale and steep pitch, which adds to the awe-inspiring effect when viewed from the towers. 

Adding to the roof’s grandeur is the cathedral’s famous bell, the Pummerin. The Pummerin, which hangs in the North Tower (the shorter of the cathedral's two main towers), is one of the largest church bells in Europe, weighing in at around 21 tons. This bell has a remarkable history. The original Pummerin was cast from cannons captured from the Ottomans during the failed siege of Vienna in 1683. Unfortunately, the bell was destroyed during the fire in 1945. The current Pummerin was recast in 1951 from the remains of the original bell and was ceremonially reinstalled in the rebuilt North Tower in 1952. The sound of the Pummerin ringing is a deep, resonant tone that can be heard across Vienna on special occasions, such as New Year’s Eve, Easter, and major state events. 

To get an up-close view of the Pummerin, as well as the incredible roof mosaics, you can actually ascend to the top of either the North Tower or South Tower during your visit to St. Stephen's Cathedral. The views of the city from the top of St. Stephen's Cathedral are unmatched anywhere in Vienna! The North Tower, as we already mentioned is the shorter of the two towers and the more popular tower with tourists, since you can access it via elevator. The South Tower, which stands at 446 feet (136 meters), can only be accessed by climbing the 343 steps to the top. Since there is no elevator, it is less expensive to visit the South Tower, but the views are incredible from either! 

Together, the roof and the Pummerin bell contribute to the grandeur and significance of St. Stephen’s Cathedral, making it not just a religious and historical monument but also one of the most important top Vienna attractions. St. Stephen's Cathedral is open daily. Visiting hours for tourists are Monday through Saturday 9:00 AM to 11:30 AM and 1:00 PM to 4:30 PM. You can only visit the cathedral on Sundays and public holidays from 1:00 PM to 4:30 PM. Tickets can be purchased on-site and are cash only. More information about ticket prices and visiting hours can be found on the St. Stephen's Cathedral website. 

Jetset Seeker Fun Fact: Either before you enter St. Stephen's Cathedral or after you exit the building, you have to play a game of "I Spy." There is a cannonball lodged into the exterior stonework of the cathedral! It dates back to the failed siege of Vienna in 1683 by the Ottomans. It is located in one of the middle buttresses near the South Tower. See if you can spot it! 

The Imperial Treasury (Kaiserliche Schatzkammer)

For those interested in the opulence of the Habsburg dynasty, the Imperial Treasury is one of the top Vienna attractions you should not miss. Located within the Hofburg Palace complex, this museum houses an extraordinary collection of crown jewels, relics, and other treasures that once belonged to the Austrian emperors. The Imperial Treasury can really be broken into two treasuries: the ecclesiastical treasury and the secular treasury. The ecclesiastical treasury boasts a collection of sacred religious artifacts and relics, while the secular treasury houses the illustrious crown jewels.

One of the most iconic items in the Imperial Treasury is the Imperial Crown of the Holy Roman Empire. Crafted in the 10th century, this crown was used for the coronation of emperors for nearly a millennium. Adorned with precious gems and gold, its octagonal shape pays homage to the shape of the crowns worn by Byzantine emperors. The crown is not just a piece of jewelry; it is a symbol of the might and sanctity of the Holy Roman Empire, making it one of the most significant artifacts in European history.

The Crown of Emperor Rudolf II, also known as the Imperial Crown of Austria, is another of the most significant treasures housed in the Imperial Treasury, and it holds a special place in the history of the Habsburg dynasty. Crafted in 1602, this crown was originally designed as a personal crown for Emperor Rudolf II, who was not only the Holy Roman Emperor, but a passionate patron of the arts and sciences. The crown later became the official crown of the Austrian Empire, symbolizing the continuity and legitimacy of Habsburg rule. The crown itself is a stunning example of Renaissance goldsmithing, with intricate details that reflect Rudolf II's refined taste.

Beyond these two magnificent crowns, the Imperial Treasury is filled with a wealth of other extraordinary artifacts. Some of the other notable pieces include:

• The Holy Lance: According to legend, this ancient lance was used by a Roman soldier to pierce the side of Jesus during the crucifixion. It was believed to grant immense supernatural power to its possessor, making it a highly revered and mystical relic throughout history. The lance was kept by various rulers over the centuries, eventually becoming part of the Habsburgs' collection.

• The Imperial Orb and Sceptre: These symbols of authority were part of the regalia used during coronation ceremonies. The orb represents the emperor's Christian world dominion, while the sceptre symbolizes his temporal power. Both pieces are elaborately decorated with precious stones and gold, reflecting the grandeur of the Habsburg monarchy.

• Treasures from the Order of the Golden Fleece: This collection of treasures from the prestigious Order of the Golden Fleece, founded by Philip the Good of Burgundy in 1430, is another highlight of the Imperial Treasury. The treasury contains elaborate collars, crosses, chains, and other items associated with the order, which became one of the most prestigious chivalric orders in Europe. 

• The Agate Bowl: This large, intricately carved bowl, made from a single piece of agate, is one of the oldest and most mysterious items in the Treasury. It dates back to the 4th century, and its origins are still debated by historians. The bowl's translucent beauty and the skill required to create it have made it a centerpiece of the collection.

• Charlemagne’s Sabre: This ceremonial sabre, attributed to the legendary emperor Charlemagne, is another fascinating piece in the collection. Although its actual connection to Charlemagne is uncertain, the sabre is nonetheless a striking artifact, with its hilt decorated in gold and gemstones.

• Napoleon II's Cradle (The Cradle of the King of Rome): A gift from the city of Paris to celebrate the birth of Napoleon's son, also known as the King of Rome or Napoleon II. This extravagant cradle, made of silver and adorned with intricate carvings, is a testament to the grandeur and aspirations of the Napoleonic dynasty. (For added context: Napoleon II's mother was Archduchess Maria Ludovika of Austria, later known as Duchess Marie Louise.)

These treasures highlight the immense wealth and influence of the Habsburg dynasty. The Imperial Treasury offers a unique opportunity to explore these historical artifacts up close, making it one of the most captivating top Vienna attractions for those interested in the intersection of art, history, and royalty.

The Imperial Treasury in Vienna is closed on Tuesdays. The Imperial Treasury is open from 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM, with the last admission at 5:00 PM. Tickets do not need to be purchased in-advance and can be purchased at the treasury. If you do wish to purchase your tickets online, you can do so on the Imperial Treasury website.

If you are planning on visiting both the Kunsthistorisches Museum and the Imperial Treasury (Kaiserliche Schatzkammer), then I highly recommend that you purchase the "Treasures of the Habsburgs" combination ticket for both of these Vienna museums. You can purchase the combo ticket either online on the Kunsthistorisches Museum website or in-person at whichever museum you choose to visit first. The tickets do not need to be used on the same day. Double-check with the ticket office for expiration dates. The combo ticket retails for €29, which amounts to a savings of €8 in the event you were to purchase admission for both of these incredible Vienna museums separately. 

Schönbrunn Palace (Schloss Schönbrunn)

A UNESCO World Heritage site, Schönbrunn Palace is one of the top Vienna attractions. This former summer residence of the Habsburg rulers is a stunning example of Baroque architecture. Visitors can explore the opulent state rooms, the beautifully landscaped gardens, and even see the world's oldest zoo, Tiergarten Schönbrunn, located on the palace grounds. 

Among the top Vienna attractions, Schönbrunn Palace stands as a testament to the grandeur and legacy of the Habsburg monarchy. Originally built in the 16th century as a modest hunting lodge, Schönbrunn evolved into one of Europe’s most magnificent palaces under the reign of Empress Maria Theresa. The Empress transformed the lodge into a luxurious summer residence. Today, Schönbrunn Palace remains a symbol of the opulence and power that characterized the Habsburg Empire, and it continues to captivate visitors from around the world.

The palace's history is rich with stories of imperial life, political intrigue, and artistic patronage. Empress Maria Theresa, who ruled for 40 years, made Schönbrunn the center of court life, hosting lavish balls, state affairs, and family events within its walls. The palace’s 1,441 rooms, each more lavish than the last, are adorned with frescoes, chandeliers, gilded mirrors, and incredible furniture that reflect the artistic and cultural flourishing of the Habsburg era. Notable rooms include the beautiful Great Gallery, where glittering state banquets were held, and the Hall of Mirrors, where Mozart once performed for the Empress Maria Theresa as a child prodigy. Unfortunately, you cannot take photos inside the palace itself, but the exterior and the gardens are fair game.

The expansive gardens of Schönbrunn are equally impressive and have been meticulously designed to complement the palace's grandeur. Stretching over 500 acres, the gardens feature a maze, faux Roman ruins, and the Gloriette, a stunning structure offering panoramic views of palace grounds. 

If you are planning to visit Schönbrunn Palace, I highly recommend purchasing the Classic Pass. There are numerous ticket types available, but the Classic Pass provides an audio guide for the palace itself, as well as access to the Privy Garden, Orangery Garden, Gloriette, and the maze and labyrinth within the vast Schönbrunn Gardens. Schönbrunn Palace is open daily, including public holidays. However, the hours of operation differ based on the season. Tickets for Schönbrunn Palace should be purchased in advance of your visit. Please note that tickets to Schönbrunn Palace have specific admission times and, as such, you will not be allowed into the palace if you arrive late (or early for that matter). Tickets can be purchased online on the Schönbrunn Palace website.

If you are looking to add a unique experience to your visit to the Schönbrunn Palace, then you are in for a real treat! The Schönbrunn Palace Orchestra performs daily, including on Christmas and New Year's Eve, in the Orangery. Tickets must be booked in advance on the Schönbrunn Palace Concerts website. 

Hofburg Imperial Apartments & Sisi Museum

The Hofburg Imperial Apartments and the Sisi Museum are integral to understanding Vienna's imperial history, making them essential stops among the top Vienna attractions. The Hofburg Palace, once the political and ceremonial center of the Habsburg Empire, served as the primary residence for the ruling dynasty from the 13th century until the end of the monarchy in 1918. Over the centuries, the palace evolved into a sprawling complex, with various wings and courtyards reflecting the grandeur and power of the Habsburgs. Walking through its halls, you are not just exploring a building—you are stepping into the heart of European royalty and Austrian history.

The Hofburg Imperial Apartments within the Hofburg Palace offer a glimpse into the luxurious lifestyle of Emperor Franz Joseph I and his wife, Empress Elisabeth, affectionately known as Sisi. The apartments are meticulously preserved, showcasing the opulent décor, exquisite furnishings, and personal items of the imperial family. From the emperor’s study, where he managed the affairs of the vast Austrian Empire, to Sisi’s private chambers, adorned with silk wallpapers and fine antiques, every room tells a story of imperial life.

The Sisi Museum, located within the same wing, delves deeper into the life of Empress Elisabeth, one of the most fascinating figures in Austrian history. The museum displays personal artifacts, including replicas of Sisi’s dresses and jewelry, alongside exhibits that explore her complex personality and tragic fate. Sisi's life which was marked by a deep sense of melancholy and an obsession with her personal appearance. The museum also touches on the unexpected death of her son, Crown Prince Rudolf, and her own assassination in 1898. (For added clarity and context, Crown Prince Rudolf's death not only left his mother distraught and inconsolable, but also upended the line of succession of the Habsburg dynasty. With Crown Prince Rudolf's death, the crown of the Austrian Empire was left with Franz Joseph's brother - Archduke Karl Ludwig - and his oldest son, the ill-fated Archduke Franz Ferdinand. Yes, that Archduke Franz Ferdinand.) As you leave the Sisi Museum, you will gain insight into her desire for freedom, a stark contrast to the strict demands of court life, which only adds to the intrigue of her story.

Visiting the Hofburg Imperial Apartments and Sisi Museum provides not only an insight into the daily lives of the Habsburgs but also an understanding of the political and cultural forces that shaped Vienna. As you wander through the lavish rooms and absorb the history within these walls, it becomes clear why the Hofburg is considered one of the top Vienna attractions. Tickets to the Hofburg Imperial Apartments and the Sisi Museum do not need to be purchased in advance. The Hofburg Imperial Apartments and Sisi Museum are open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM. The last admission is at 4:30 PM. For more information, please check the Hofburg Imperial Apartments and Sisi Museum website.

Like Schönbrunn Palace, photography is sadly not permitted inside of the Hofburg Imperial Apartments and Sisi Museum. 

Vienna State Opera House (Wiener Staatsoper)

A visit to Vienna would be incomplete without experiencing the cultural heart of the city—the Vienna State Opera House. Opened in 1869 with a performance of Mozart's opera "Don Giovanni," this iconic venue has since become one of the most important opera houses in the world. Its rich history is interwoven with the musical legacy of Vienna, having hosted countless premieres and performances by the world's most renowned composers, conductors, and musicians. The Vienna State Opera House's reputation as one of the top Vienna attractions is well-deserved, not only for its extraordinary productions but also for its historical significance.

The Vienna State Opera House was one of the first major buildings constructed on the Ringstraße and was built in the Neo-Renaissance style. A significant part of the opera house was destroyed towards the end of World War II by Allied bombing raids. The original auditorium and stage were completely destroyed; however, the foyer and front of the opera house survived. The Vienna State Opera House was rebuilt to match its original design and reopened in 1955. Today, the Vienna State Opera House is one of the busiest in the world, with more than 350 performances annually.

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The grandeur of the Vienna State Opera House is evident as soon as you step inside. The magnificent main staircase, adorned with marble and elegant balustrades, sets the tone for the opulent interiors that follow. The auditorium, with its plush red velvet seats, gilded balconies, and massive crystal chandelier, offers a setting as breathtaking as the performances themselves. The intricate architectural details, from the frescoed ceilings to the stage curtain, create an atmosphere of timeless elegance that enhances every performance.

In addition to opera, the Vienna State Opera House also hosts world-class ballet performances and concerts, showcasing the versatility of this cultural institution. Whether you catch a live opera, a ballet, or a concert, or simply take a guided tour, you will be immersed in the artistic brilliance that makes this venue one of the top Vienna attractions. For individuals eager to experience a live performance at the Vienna State Opera House (we saw a ballet performance of Don Quixote during our visit that was absolutely outstanding), details on forthcoming shows and ticket options are available on the Vienna State Opera House's box office website. Guided tours can be booked online via the Vienna State Opera House website.

Bonus Round: Top Vienna Attractions

In a city as magnificent and regal as Vienna, did you really think we were only going to discuss five of the top Vienna attractions? While you definitely should not skip the five top Vienna attractions already mentioned, if your travel schedule permits, the following two are also exceptional places worth visiting.

Café Sacher

As a bonus on your tour of top Vienna attractions, do not miss the chance to indulge in a slice of the world-famous Sachertorte at Café Sacher. Located near the Vienna State Opera House, this iconic café has been serving up its decadent chocolate cake since 1832. The elegant setting, complete with plush seating and chandeliers, makes it the perfect place to unwind after a day full of sightseeing.

Vienna's café culture is itself one of the top Vienna attractions, a component of daily life for the Viennese. The traditional Viennese café is more than just a place to grab a coffee—it is a social hub, a place for conversation, contemplation, and relaxation. At any time of day, you will find locals and visitors alike enjoying a leisurely coffee, often accompanied by a slice of cake or strudel, as they read the newspaper or socialize with friends and family. The city's grand cafés, like Café Sacher, with their plush interiors and old-world charm, invite you to linger and soak in the atmosphere. Experiencing this café culture is essential to understanding the rhythm of Vienna and adds a delightful layer to your visit to the top Vienna attractions. Plus, Vienna's café culture is so significant that UNESCO added it to their list of intangible cultural heritage, so you really have to visit a traditional Viennese café at least once on your trip!

Café Sacher is just as iconic as its famous namesake cake. With that, however, reservations are highly coveted and highly recommended. Café Sacher is open daily from 7:00AM to 11:00PM. Advance reservations can be made online on the Café Sacher website. If you are unable to snag a reservation in advance of your visit to Café Sacher, you can always wait in line for a table. I recommend visiting in the early in the morning (shortly after opening) if you are without a reservation as this is when the café is the least busy. 

Kunsthistorisches Museum

Among the top Vienna attractions, the Kunsthistorisches Museum stands out as a must-visit for art lovers. Located on the Ringstraße, this museum houses one of the most impressive art collections in the world. Built in the late 19th century to showcase the Habsburg family's extensive art collection, the museum's architecture is as magnificent as the treasures within.

Visitors can explore works by masters such as Raphael, Caravaggio, and Velázquez, along with a remarkable collection of Egyptian, Greek, and Roman antiquities. The museum's opulent interiors, including the grand staircase adorned with frescoes by Gustav Klimt, create an atmosphere that enhances the experience of viewing these masterpieces. For anyone interested in art and history, the Kunsthistorisches Museum is undeniably one of the top Vienna attractions.

The Kunsthistorisches Museum is open daily during the summer months of June to August. The museum is otherwise is closed on Mondays. For the most up-to-date opening hours, please visit the Kunsthistorisches Museum website. 

In Summary: Top Vienna Attractions

Vienna is a city where history comes alive through its stunning architecture, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant arts scene. From the towering spire of St. Stephen's Cathedral to the opulence of Schönbrunn Palace, the top Vienna attractions offer something for everyone. Whether you are exploring the treasures of the Habsburgs or enjoying a piece of Sachertorte at Café Sacher, Vienna promises to be an unforgettable experience.

Looking for even more information on Vienna? Check out our Vienna Travel Guide for details on neighborhoods, shopping, restaurants, and more. Wondering about the art museums in Vienna? Check out my blog post on my favorite Vienna museums! I cover the Kunsthistorisches Museum and the Albertina in great detail.

Have you visited Vienna or are you planning an upcoming trip? We would love to hear from you!