Ultimate Vienna Travel Blog: Things to Do & Travel Guide

Top Vienna Landmarks

Vienna is home to some of the most iconic landmarks in Europe, and exploring these is a key part of any Vienna travel itinerary. From historic buildings along the Ringstraße to famous cultural sites, these are the top Vienna landmarks worth adding to your list of things to do in Vienna.

Vienna State Opera (Wiener Staatsoper) 

The Vienna State Opera (Wiener Staatsoper) is one of the most renowned opera houses in the world and one of Vienna’s most important cultural landmarks. Located along the Ringstraße in the heart of the city, it was completed in 1869 and was the first major building constructed on this grand boulevard.

Designed in the Neo-Renaissance style, the opera house is known for its grand façade and lavish interior. Inside, visitors will find an impressive auditorium with plush red seating, gold detailing, and a large chandelier, along with elegant foyers and a striking staircase decorated with marble statues and frescoes.

The Vienna State Opera remains a central part of the city’s musical identity, hosting more than 350 performances each year, including opera, ballet, and classical concerts. It regularly attracts leading singers, conductors, and musicians from around the world, which is part of what makes it such a significant stop in Vienna for anyone interested in music, performance, or architecture.

If you want to experience the opera house beyond seeing it from the outside, attending a performance here can be a memorable addition to your Vienna itinerary, though it’s worth checking schedules and booking tickets in advance for popular productions. Guided tours are also available and offer a behind-the-scenes look at the opera house’s ornate rooms, backstage areas, and stage machinery.

Even if you don't go inside, the Vienna State Opera House is still worth seeing while exploring central Vienna, especially since it sits in such a prominent location along one of the city’s most important historic streets.

For individuals eager to experience a live performance at the Vienna State Opera House, details on forthcoming shows and ticket options are available on the Vienna State Opera website.

Austrian Parliament Building (Parlament Österreich)

The Austrian Parliament Building is one of the most striking landmarks along Vienna’s Ringstraße, known for its grand neoclassical architecture inspired by ancient Greece. Completed in 1883, the building features impressive columns, statues, and the iconic Pallas Athena fountain at its front.

Visitors can also explore the interior through guided tours, or stop by the rooftop restaurant, which offers views over Vienna. Located near the Hofburg and Rathaus, it’s easy to pass by as you explore the city center and is especially beautiful when illuminated at night.

Rathaus (Vienna City Hall)

Vienna’s Rathaus (City Hall) is a striking neo-Gothic building located along the Ringstraße, known for its ornate façade and tall central tower. The large square in front of the Rathaus is one of the city’s main gathering spaces and hosts major events throughout the year.

During Christmas in Vienna, this square transforms into one of the city’s most popular spots, hosting its largest and most famous Christmas market.

Stephansplatz

Stephansplatz is the central square in Vienna and the heart of the city’s historic center. It is dominated by St. Stephen’s Cathedral, a Gothic masterpiece and one of the most recognizable landmarks in Vienna.

The square is a busy, lively area filled with shops, cafés, and street performers, making it a natural hub for both visitors and locals throughout the day. It also serves as a major transportation hub, with the Stephansplatz U-Bahn station, located directly beneath the square, making it a convenient starting point for exploring Vienna’s main attractions.

If you’re visiting Vienna in November or December, Stephansplatz is also home to one of the city’s Christmas markets, adding to the atmosphere with festive stalls, lights, and seasonal food and drinks.

Minoritenplatz 

Minoritenplatz is a historic square in Vienna located near the Hofburg Palace in the city’s Innere Stadt. It’s known for its elegant architecture and the presence of several government buildings, which give the area a more formal, understated feel.

The square takes its name from the Minorite Church (Minoritenkirche), a Gothic church dating back to the 14th century and one of the oldest in Vienna.

Compared to the busier Stephansplatz, Minoritenplatz is much quieter, making it a good place to slow down and take in the surroundings without the crowds.

Heldenplatz (Heroes' Square)

Heldenplatz (Heroes’ Square) is a large public square in Vienna located directly in front of the Hofburg Palace, making it one of the most historically significant spaces in the city.

The square is known for its monumental scale and the two equestrian statues of Archduke Charles of Austria and Prince Eugene of Savoy, both celebrated military leaders who played key roles in Austrian history.

Heldenplatz has also been the site of major historical events, most notably Adolf Hitler’s 1938 speech announcing Austria’s annexation into Nazi Germany, which remains an important and sobering part of the square’s history.

Today, Heldenplatz is a popular area for visitors, offering open views of the Hofburg Palace and easy access to nearby sights like the Volksgarten and the Ringstraße, making it a natural stop while exploring this part of Vienna.

Michaelerplatz

Michaelerplatz is a historic square in Vienna located at one of the main entrances to the Hofburg Palace, making it a natural starting point when exploring this part of the city.

The square is named after St. Michael’s Church (Michaelerkirche), a Gothic church dating back to the 13th century, and is also framed by the Michaelertrakt, an elegant wing of the Hofburg Palace known for its distinctive dome.

One of the most interesting features of Michaelerplatz is the archaeological excavation site in the center of the square, where you can see the remains of Roman Vienna, adding a visible layer of history that sets it apart from many of the city’s other squares.

Must-Visit Museums in Vienna

Vienna is home to some of the best museums in Europe, ranging from world-class art collections to historic palaces that offer a deeper look into the city’s imperial past. If it’s your first visit to Vienna, it’s best to focus on just a few key highlights, as many of these museums are large and can easily take several hours to explore. A '♡' marks our personal favorites!

Must-See Museums in Vienna for First-Time Visitors

If it’s your first time in Vienna, these are the museums and palaces worth prioritizing. They represent the city’s most iconic art, history, and architecture, and are the best places to start when building your Vienna itinerary.

Schönbrunn Palace (Schloss Schönbrunn) ♡

Schönbrunn Palace is one of Vienna’s most iconic landmarks and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Located in the Hietzing district, this grand baroque palace served as the summer residence of the Habsburg emperors and remains one of the most important places to understand Vienna’s imperial history.

Originally built as a hunting lodge in the late 16th century, the palace was later expanded under Emperor Leopold I. Empress Maria Theresa transformed it into the magnificent residence seen today, shaping much of its design and role as a center of imperial life.

The palace contains over 1,400 rooms, including state apartments, private quarters, and ceremonial halls that reflect the scale and formality of the Habsburg court. Some of the most notable rooms include:

• The Great Gallery: A grand hall used for balls and receptions, known for its ceiling frescoes, chandeliers, and gilded detailing.
• The Hall of Mirrors: An elegant room used for smaller gatherings, where a young Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart once performed for Maria Theresa.
• The Blue Chinese Salon: Decorated with blue and white porcelain, used for more private meetings and receptions.

The gardens are just as impressive as the palace itself, designed in a formal French style with long, symmetrical pathways, fountains, and landscaped views. In addition to touring the palace interiors and surrounding gardens, visitors can visit the zoo or attend concerts in the Schönbrunn Orangery.

Hofburg Imperial Apartments & Sisi Museum

Located within the Hofburg Palace in central Vienna, the Hofburg Imperial Apartments were the official residence of the Habsburg emperors and offer a detailed look into court life during the reign of Emperor Franz Joseph I and Empress Elisabeth.

Visitors can walk through a series of rooms, including the audience chamber, conference room, and private living quarters, all decorated with period furnishings, tapestries, and chandeliers that reflect the formality and structure of imperial life.

Adjacent to the apartments, the Sisi Museum focuses on the life of Empress Elisabeth, one of Austria’s most well-known historical figures. Known for her beauty, independence, and tragic life, Sisi remains a central figure in Vienna’s imperial history.

The museum displays a range of personal items, including dresses, parasols, gloves, and beauty products, alongside letters and poetry that offer a more personal look at her life. It traces her story from her early years as a Bavarian duchess through her marriage to Franz Joseph, her struggles with court life, and the personal tragedies she experienced, including the death of her son, Crown Prince Rudolf, and her assassination in 1898.

Together, the Imperial Apartments and Sisi Museum provide a more personal and intimate perspective on the Habsburg dynasty, making this a worthwhile stop if you’re interested in the people behind Vienna’s imperial history.

Belvedere Palace (Upper Belvedere / Lower Belvedere) ♡

Belvedere Palace is one of Vienna’s most iconic landmarks, known for its baroque architecture, formal gardens, and as the home of Gustav Klimt’s The Kiss. Built in the early 18th century as a summer residence for Prince Eugene of Savoy, the complex consists of the Upper and Lower Belvedere connected by landscaped gardens.

Beyond its art collection, Schloss Belvedere is also historically important. The Upper Belvedere served as the home of the Archduke Franz Ferdinand before his assassination in 1914. The Upper Belvedere’s Marble Hall is also where Austria’s State Treaty was signed in 1955, formally restoring the country’s independence after World War II.

Highlights of the Collection

The Upper Belvedere houses one of Austria’s most important art collections, with a strong focus on Austrian artists. The most famous work here is Klimt’s The Kiss, which is one of the most visited paintings in Vienna.

In addition to Klimt, the collection includes works by Egon Schiele and Ferdinand Georg Waldmüller, as well as Jacques-Louis David’s Napoleon at the Great St. Bernard, offering a mix of Austrian and European masterpieces.

Upper vs. Lower Belvedere

The Upper Belvedere is the main attraction and where the permanent collection is displayed.

The Lower Belvedere, which once served as Prince Eugene’s residence, now hosts temporary exhibitions and includes ornate historic rooms such as the Marble Gallery and the Hall of Grotesques.

The Gardens

The gardens between the Upper and Lower Belvedere are a highlight in their own right. Designed in a formal French style, they feature symmetrical pathways, fountains, and sculptures, and offer some of the best views of the palace.

What to Know Before You Go

The Upper Belvedere is the main attraction and home to Klimt’s The Kiss, so if you’re short on time, it’s best to focus your visit there. A combination ticket is available if you’re interested in seeing both the Upper and Lower Belvedere, but most visitors will find the Upper alone is enough. The gardens are free to enter, and it’s worth booking tickets in advance during peak seasons.

Kunsthistorisches Museum ♡

The Kunsthistorisches Museum is one of Vienna’s most important art museums, located near the Hofburg Palace and housed in a grand 19th-century building commissioned by Emperor Franz Joseph I. The museum is best known for its collection of European paintings from the Renaissance through the Baroque period, with works by artists like Diego Velázquez, Pieter Bruegel the Elder, and Peter Paul Rubens.

Highlights from the Collection

The museum holds several notable works by Velázquez, including Infanta Margarita Teresa in a Blue Dress, which reflects the close relationship between the Spanish royal family and the Habsburgs. Portraits were often exchanged between courts, reflecting both political alliances and family ties.

You’ll also find an extensive collection of paintings by Bruegel, including The Tower of Babel and The Hunters in the Snow, along with major works by Rubens such as The Four Continents.

Another standout is the portrait of Marie Antoinette by Élisabeth Louise Vigée Le Brun, one of the most prominent female artists of her time. Born an Austrian archduchess before becoming Queen of France, she personified the reach of the Habsburg dynasty across Europe.

What to Know Before You Go: Kunsthistorisches Museum

The museum itself is worth seeing beyond the collection, with an ornate interior and a grand staircase decorated with frescoes by Gustav Klimt.

The Kunsthistorisches Museum is closed on Mondays. You can buy tickets in advance on the museum’s official website, where prices are lower than at the on-site ticket office.

If you also plan to visit the Imperial Treasury Vienna, you can purchase a combination ticket that includes admission to both the Imperial Treasury and the Kunsthistorisches Museum are available.

Other Notable Museums in Vienna

Beyond the must-see highlights, Vienna has several other notable museums that are well worth visiting, especially if you have more time.

Albertina Museum ♡

Set within a former Habsburg palace in the Innere Stadt, the Albertina Museum is one of the city’s premier cultural institutions, renowned for its extensive collection of graphic art, photography, and modern art.

The museum's collection includes over a million prints and tens of thousands of drawings, including works by artists such as Albrecht Dürer, Raphael, and Michelangelo Buonarroti. One of the most well-known pieces in the collection is Dürer’s Hare, a detailed watercolor that remains one of the museum’s highlights. In addition to its historical works, the Albertina also houses the Batliner Collection, which focuses on Impressionist and early modern art. Here, you’ll find paintings by artists like Claude Monet and Edgar Degas, alongside modern works by Pablo Picasso and René Magritte, offering a broader view of artistic development across different periods.

One of the most unique aspects of visiting the Albertina is the opportunity to explore the State Rooms, which were once used by Habsburg archdukes and archduchesses. These restored palace interiors provide a glimpse into aristocratic life and are often less crowded than similar spaces at Schönbrunn Palace or the Hofburg, making them a worthwhile part of the visit.

Imperial Treasury Vienna (Schatzkammer) ♡

Located within the Hofburg Palace complex, the Imperial Treasury Vienna houses one of the most significant collections of royal regalia in Europe, offering a direct look at the power and legacy of the Habsburg dynasty.

The collection spans over a thousand years of history and includes some of the most important imperial symbols in Europe, such as the Imperial Crown of the Holy Roman Empire, the Austrian Imperial Crown, and the Orb and Sceptre. These objects were not only ceremonial but represented the authority of rulers across the continent. Other highlights include the Burgundian Treasure, a collection of medieval jewels and ceremonial objects, as well as the Holy Lance, a relic long believed to have pierced the side of Christ. In addition to these pieces, the treasury features intricately crafted swords, ceremonial garments, and detailed works of goldsmithing and enameling, all reflecting the wealth and influence of the Habsburgs.

This is one of the most worthwhile stops if you’re interested in imperial history, as it provides a more tangible and focused look at the Habsburg dynasty than many of Vienna’s larger museums.

The Imperial Treasury is closed on Tuesdays. Tickets can be booked online via the official Kaiserliche Schatzkammer website, in advance of your visit, for a reduced cost.

State Hall (Prunksaal) at the Austrian National Library ♡

The State Hall (Prunksaal) at the Austrian National Library, located within the Hofburg Palace complex, is one of the most visually stunning interiors in Vienna. While it is often featured on social media, it truly lives up to the hype.

The State Hall features soaring vaulted ceilings, richly decorated frescoes, and floor-to-ceiling wooden bookshelves lined with historic volumes. Massive baroque globes are displayed throughout the space, adding to its grandeur and making it feel more like a museum than a traditional library.

The library complex also includes several additional museums, such as the Papyrus Museum and the Globe Museum, which require separate admission.

The State Hall is closed on Mondays from October through May. Tickets can be purchased both in-person and online at the official Austrian National Library website. Guided tours are available in English and should be booked online, in advance.

Leopold Museum

Located within Vienna’s MuseumsQuartier, the Leopold Museum focuses on modern Austrian art, with a particular emphasis on the Vienna Secession and early 20th-century artists. Built around the private collection of Rudolf and Elisabeth Leopold, it is best known for its extensive holdings of Egon Schiele’s work, alongside pieces by Gustav Klimt, Oskar Kokoschka, Richard Gerstl, and Koloman Moser, offering a strong overview of Austrian modernism. Highlights include Klimt’s Death and Life, making this a must-visit if you’re especially interested in Austrian artists and early modern art.

The Leopold Museum is closed on Tuesdays. Tickets for the Leopold Museum can be purchased online via the official Leopold Museum website.

Imperial Carriage Museum (Kaiserliche Wagenburg)

Located within the grounds of Schönbrunn Palace, the Imperial Carriage Museum showcases over 170 historic carriages, sleighs, and ceremonial vehicles used by the Habsburgs, offering a unique look at imperial life beyond palace interiors. Highlights include the gilded Imperial Coach used for coronations, the ornate carriage of Empress Maria Theresa, and several personal carriages belonging to Empress Elisabeth (Sisi), including her funeral hearse, making this a worthwhile stop if you’re particularly interested in royal history or looking to add something more niche to your visit.

Discounted tickets for the Imperial Carriage Museum can be purchased from the official Kaiserliche Wagenburg Wien website, in advance of your visit.

For Design, Contemporary Art, & More

Beyond the most well-known museums in Vienna, there are several others that focus on design, contemporary art, and more specialized interests. These are great options if you’re looking to explore a different side of the city’s creative and cultural scene.

MUMOK (Museum Moderner Kunst Stiftung Ludwig Wien)

Set within the MuseumsQuartier, MUMOK stands out for both its striking dark basalt exterior and its focus on international modern and contemporary art. Its collection spans the 20th and 21st centuries, featuring works by artists such as Pablo Picasso, Andy Warhol, and Jackson Pollock alongside Austrian figures like Maria Lassnig, and covers a wide range of media from painting and sculpture to video and installations. With exhibitions often exploring social and cultural themes, MUMOK offers a more contemporary and conceptual experience, making it a strong choice if you’re interested in modern art beyond Vienna’s more traditional museums.

MUMOK is closed on Mondays, and tickets can be purchased in advance of your visit via the official MUMOK website. Combined tickets are available if you are also interested in visiting the Leopold Museum. Combined tickets can only be purchased on-site at MUMOK.

MAK (Austrian Museum of Applied Arts / Contemporary Arts)

Focused on design, craftsmanship, and modern creativity, the MAK offers a different experience from Vienna’s more traditional art museums. Located along the Ringstraße near Stadtpark, its collection spans everything from furniture and textiles to ceramics and graphic design, showing how everyday objects have evolved from the Middle Ages to today, while also placing a strong emphasis on contemporary design through rotating exhibitions. One of its standout features is the MAK Design Lab, an interactive space exploring experimental design and how it shapes the modern world, making this a great stop if you’re interested in design, architecture, or modern creative trends.

MAK is closed on Mondays, and tickets for MAK can be purchased in advance of your visit through the official MAK website.

Belvedere 21

Part of the Belvedere museum complex, Belvedere 21 focuses on contemporary Austrian art, with an emphasis on post-war to present-day work. The building itself has an interesting history, originally designed as the Austrian pavilion for the 1958 Brussels World’s Fair before being relocated to Vienna, giving it a more modern, open feel compared to many of the city’s historic museums. Today, the museum serves as a space for rotating exhibitions and contemporary programming, showcasing works by artists such as Maria Lassnig, Günter Brus, and other international contributors.

Belvedere 21 is closed on Mondays. Combination tickets are also available via the Belvedere Museum website if you plan to visit it alongside the Upper and Lower Belvedere.

Museum Hundertwasser im KunstHausWien

Dedicated to the work of Austrian artist and architect Friedensreich Hundertwasser, Museum Hundertwasser im KunstHausWien offers one of the most visually distinctive experiences in Vienna. Housed in a former factory re-designed by Hundertwasser himself, the building is as much a highlight as the artwork inside. It features uneven floors, organic shapes, bold colors, and a rooftop garden, all reflecting his philosophy of rejecting straight lines and creating harmony with nature.

Inside, the museum’s permanent collection showcases a wide range of Hundertwasser’s work, including paintings, graphic art, architectural concepts, and tapestries, giving a deeper look into both his artistic style and his broader ideas about design and the environment.

Family-Friendly Museums in Vienna

If you’re visiting Vienna with kids, there are several museums and experiences that are especially engaging, with interactive exhibits, hands-on activities, and more visual displays that appeal to a wider range of ages.

Naturhistorisches Museum (Museum of Natural History)

Located along the Ringstraße, directly opposite the Kunsthistorisches Museum, the Naturhistorisches Museum is one of Vienna’s most impressive and family-friendly museums, known for its vast collection of natural history exhibits.

With over 30 million objects, the collection covers everything from dinosaurs and early human history to minerals and biodiversity. Some of the most popular highlights include the Venus of Willendorf, a 29,500-year-old figurine, the dinosaur hall with life-sized skeletons of species like Allosaurus and Iguanodon, and the extensive gem and meteorite collection. The museum also features exhibits on human evolution and the natural world, making it both educational and engaging for a wide range of visitors.

The Naturhistorisches Museum is closed on Tuesdays. Admission is free for children under the age of 19.

Schönbrunn Zoo (Tiergarten Schönbrunn)

Located within the grounds of Schönbrunn Palace, Schönbrunn Zoo is one of the oldest zoos in the world and one of Vienna’s most popular family-friendly attractions. Originally established in 1752 as an imperial menagerie, the zoo has evolved into a modern institution focused on conservation, education, and research, while still retaining its historic setting.

Today, the zoo is home to a wide range of animal species from around the world, with habitats designed to reflect their natural environments. Some of the most popular areas include the Panda Garden, where you can see giant pandas, the Polarium with polar bears and penguins, and the Rainforest House, which recreates a tropical ecosystem.

Set within the palace grounds, the zoo is easy to combine with a visit to Schönbrunn itself and offers a more relaxed, outdoor experience compared to many of Vienna’s indoor museums. This is one of the best options if you’re traveling to Vienna with kids or looking for a break from art and history-focused sightseeing.

Haus der Musik

Haus der Musik is an interactive museum dedicated to sound and music, offering a modern, immersive experience for visitors of all ages. Highlights include hands-on exhibits exploring how sound works, composer-focused displays featuring figures like Mozart, Strauss, and Beethoven, and a virtual conductor experience where you can lead your own orchestra, making it both educational and entertaining, especially for families.

Vienna Churches Worth Visiting

Vienna is home to some of the most beautiful churches in Europe, ranging from Gothic cathedrals to ornate Baroque interiors. Many are located in the historic city center and are easy to visit as you explore Vienna’s main attractions.

If you’re looking for a more in-depth guide, we’ve also rounded up a full list of the Vienna churches worth visiting, including a few additional spots not covered here.

St. Stephen's Cathedral (Stephansdom) ♡

St. Stephen's Cathedral is not only Vienna's most famous landmark but it is also a symbol of the city's enduring cultural and historical significance. Initially constructed in 1137, the cathedral has been a focal point of Vienna's religious life for nearly a millennium. The current Gothic structure, completed in the 15th century, stands on the foundations of two earlier churches, incorporating Romanesque and Gothic elements.

The cathedral's exterior is dominated by its towering South Tower, known as the "Steffl," which reaches a height of 446 feet (136 meters) and offers a panoramic view of Vienna. The North Tower, although shorter, houses the Pummerin, one of the largest free-swinging bells in Europe, cast from the remains of cannons captured from the Ottoman Turks in 1683.

Visitors can ascend to the top of the South Tower via 343 steps or take an elevator to the viewing platform of the North Tower. Both vantage points offer fantastic views of Vienna's historic center and beyond, making the climb well worth the effort.

One of the most remarkable features of St. Stephen's Cathedral in Vienna is its roof, adorned with 230,000 colorful glazed tiles. These tiles create striking geometric patterns, including the iconic double-headed eagle, the symbol of the Habsburg dynasty, and the coats of arms of Vienna and Austria. This vibrant roof is visible from various vantage points across the city and adds to the cathedral's distinctive silhouette.

Inside, the cathedral is home to a number of notable features, including the High Altar, which depicts the stoning of St. Stephen, and the intricately carved Pilgram Pulpit.

St. Peter's Church (Peterskirche)

St. Peter's Church in Vienna is a stunning Baroque church located in the heart of the city near Graben Street. Built in the early 18th century, it is renowned for its ornate interior, featuring elaborate frescoes, gilded stucco work, and a magnificent turreted dome. The church’s rich decoration and striking design make it one of the most beautiful church interiors in Vienna.

Classical music concerts, performed by the Classic Ensemble Vienna, are regularly held at St. Peter’s Church, offering a unique way to experience Vienna’s musical heritage in an intimate setting.

Church of St. Augustine (Augustinerkirche)

The Church of St. Augustine, is a historic Gothic church located near the Hofburg Palace and closely tied to the Habsburg dynasty, having hosted many royal weddings and ceremonies. Inside, you’ll find notable works such as the monument to Archduchess Maria Christina by Antonio Canova.

Each Sunday morning at 11:00 AM, the Church of St. Augustine celebrates mass with live music, including a magnificent choir and orchestra. If you plan to attend, arrive early. There is no charge to visit the Church of St. Augustine for mass, but donations are appreciated.   

Jesuit Church (Jesuitenkirche)

The Jesuit Church in Vienna is a Baroque church located in Vienna’s old university quarter, known for its dramatic interior and illusionistic design. Its ceiling frescoes and trompe-l'œil artwork create the illusion of architectural depth, making it one of the more visually striking churches in Vienna. The richly decorated high altar and detailed interior make it a worthwhile stop if you’re exploring this part of the city.

Capuchin Church & Imperial Crypt (Kapuzinergruft)

The Kapuzinergruft, or Imperial Crypt, is located beneath the Capuchin Church and serves as the final resting place of the Habsburg dynasty. Established in 1618, it houses the tombs of emperors, empresses, and other members of the imperial family, including Maria Theresa and Franz Joseph I.

The elaborate sarcophagi reflect Baroque and Rococo styles, making this a must-visit if you’re interested in Vienna’s imperial history.

Dominikanerkirche (Dominican Church)

Dominikanerkirche, also known as the Dominican Church or the Church of St. Maria Rotunda, is a Baroque church located in the Innere Stadt, known for its striking façade and richly decorated interior. The ceiling frescoes, which depict scenes from the life of the Virgin Mary, are a highlight, along with the ornate high altar. 

It’s a quieter stop compared to some of Vienna’s more famous churches, making it a nice addition as you explore the city center.

Best Parks & Gardens in Vienna

Looking for parks, and gardens in Vienna? In this Vienna travel blog, we’re highlighting the best green spaces and gardens in Vienna, from formal palace grounds to relaxed city parks, perfect for a walk, picnic, or a break from sightseeing.

If you’re visiting Vienna in autumn, especially from late October through early-to-mid November, this is one of the best times to explore the city’s parks, when the fall colors are at their peak. Stadtpark is one of our favorite spots to experience fall foliage in Vienna.

Stadtpark (City Park)

Stadtpark in Vienna is one of the city's most beloved and picturesque parks, located in the heart of the city. Established in 1862 as Vienna’s first public park, it spans over 16 acres (65,000 square meters) and features a blend of English landscape design and formal gardens, with lush greenery, flower beds, and serene ponds throughout.

One of the park's most famous landmarks is the gilded bronze statue of Johann Strauss II, the "Waltz King." In addition to this iconic monument, Stadtpark is home to several other statues and memorials dedicated to notable Viennese artists, composers, and writers.

With winding paths, expansive lawns, and shaded areas, the park offers a peaceful retreat from the city. It also features a children’s playground and the historic Kursalon, where classical music concerts and events are regularly held.

Volksgarten (People's Garden)

Volksgarten is a beautifully landscaped park located in Vienna’s Innere Stadt, just next to the Hofburg Palace. Established in 1823 and designed in the French Baroque style, it is known for its formal gardens, manicured lawns, and relaxed atmosphere.

The park is especially famous for its rose garden, which features over 3,000 rose bushes in bloom during the spring and summer months. A prominent feature of the Volksgarten is the Theseus Temple, a neoclassical structure inspired by ancient Greek architecture.

Volksgarten also includes several statues and monuments, including the Empress Elisabeth Memorial, dedicated to Empress Sisi. The park's elegant pathways, shaded benches, and well-kept flower beds make it a popular spot for both locals and tourists seeking a peaceful retreat in the heart of Vienna.

Schönbrunn Palace Park (Schlosspark Schönbrunn)

Schönbrunn Palace Park is a sprawling and meticulously landscaped garden surrounding Schönbrunn Palace, and one of the most impressive green spaces in Vienna. Designed in the Baroque style, the park covers over 160 acres and features formal flower beds, ornamental sculptures, and cascading fountains, including the iconic Neptune Fountain.

One of the highlights of the park is the Gloriette, a grand colonnaded structure set on a hill that offers panoramic views of the palace and the city skyline. Visitors can also explore themed areas such as the Privy Garden, Maze Garden, and Orangery Garden.

The park also includes the Schönbrunn Zoo, located within the grounds.

While the main Schönbrunn Palace Park is free to explore and open to the public, certain areas such as the Privy Garden, Maze, and Schönbrunn Zoo require a ticket, as does entry to Schönbrunn Palace itself.

Belvedere Palace Gardens

The Belvedere Palace Gardens are an exceptional example of Baroque landscape design, connecting the Upper and Lower Belvedere Palaces. Designed in the early 18th century, the gardens feature symmetrical pathways, manicured lawns, geometric flower beds, and ornamental fountains.

A central cascading fountain runs between the two palaces, creating a dramatic focal point as water flows from the Upper to the Lower Belvedere. The gardens are also filled with statues and sculptures, including allegorical and mythological figures that add to their artistic and historical character.

With their structured layout and elevated viewpoints, the Belvedere Gardens are among the most photogenic green spaces in Vienna. Admission to the Belvedere Palace Gardens is free, though tickets are required to enter the Upper and Lower Belvedere palaces.

Danube Island (Donauinsel)

Danube Island offers a different kind of green space in Vienna, with a more relaxed and recreational atmosphere compared to the city’s formal gardens. Located between the Danube River and the Old Danube, this long, narrow island stretches over 13 miles (21 kilometers) and is a popular spot for both locals and visitors.

In the warmer months, it’s ideal for cycling, walking, swimming, or simply relaxing along the water, with beaches, cafés, and open spaces throughout. If you’re looking to experience a more laid-back side of Vienna or take a break from sightseeing, this is a great place to unwind outdoors.