We really fell in love with the stunning city of Vienna. We visited as a city break and were pleasantly surprised by how many great things to do in Vienna we found.
We visited Vienna shortly before becoming parents (and I started this blog), and it remains a city I remember fondly for its beautiful architecture, delicious sweet treats and wonderful cultural experiences.
In this guide, I’m sharing the top five activities from our trip, along with practical information to help you plan your own visit. Plus some practical tips, including where to stay so you can make the most of your time in Austria’s capital.
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The Best Things to Do in Vienna, Austria
There are many great things to do in Vienna. Below, I will share the top five activities from our trip; make sure you add these to your Vienna itinerary.
1. Visit The Spanish Riding School
The Spanish Riding School is one of Vienna’s main attractions and probably the top thing to do in Vienna. Set in the stunningly beautiful Hofburg Palace, it has continued to practice classic equitation for the past 450 years.
We visited in the morning (from 10-12) to see the horses’ “Morning Exercises”. A display of riders and horses training together to music. We’re not especially interested in horses, but still really enjoyed this.
Tickets for The Spanish Riding School start from €17 for adults. Guided tours of the Palace are also available, as well as shows. More details can be found on the Spanish Riding School website linked here.
BOOK: TICKETS FOR THE SPANISH RIDING SCHOOL
Watching the Morning Exercise at the Spanish Riding School.
2. Eat Sweet Treats!
Vienna is famous for its sweet treats, cakes and pastries. Sampling a few is definitely one of the very best things to do in Vienna!
The most famous dessert in Vienna is the Sachertorte. This is a delicious chocolate cake with a layer of apricot jam and then covered in dark chocolate icing. Another must-try is apple strudel. This is an apple-filled pastry, served warm, sometimes for breakfast!
Of course we tried them both, and they were both amazing.
Fun Fact: Did you know the croissant originated from Vienna? All this time I thought it was French!
A delicious chocolate Sachertorte.
3. Watch an Opera or Ballet at the Vienna State Opera
The Vienna State Opera (Wiener Staatsoper) is one of the city’s most beautiful buildings, and watching an opera or ballet here is a wonderful experience to include in your Vienna itinerary.
You might assume that tickets to such a prestigious venue are expensive, but standing-room tickets offer a more affordable way to experience a performance, which is perfect if you’re visiting Vienna on a budget. Prices do vary, but they start from just €4.
We managed to get €4 tickets to see the ballet Giselle when we visited, and it was such a memorable experience.
Standing-room tickets are sold on the day of the performance, with availability depending on the show. You can check upcoming performances and the latest ticket information on the official Vienna State Opera website.
You can purchase standing-room tickets online from 10 am on the day of the performance. Tickets are also sold at the standing-room ticket office from 80 minutes before the performance begins. I’d recommend checking the official website before your visit for the latest booking instructions and availability.
When we visited, we opted to pay an extra Euro each to stand at the back of the dress circle rather than the stalls, and we thought the view was well worth it. The photograph below shows the view we had!
Remember that you’ll be standing throughout the performance, so arrive in good time if you’re buying tickets in person and want to secure a good spot.
If you’re looking for an affordable cultural experience in Vienna, I’d definitely recommend considering an opera or ballet here. It’s a wonderful opportunity to enjoy a world-famous venue without spending a fortune.
Of course, if you’re looking for a little more luxury, you can purchase tickets for a proper seat!
Watching the opera in Vienna.
4. Wander Prater Park
Prater is a great place to add to your Vienna itinerary, especially if you’re visiting with children. It’s home to one of Europe’s oldest amusement parks, with everything from traditional carousels and family rides to roller coasters and more thrilling attractions.
One of the best things about Prater is that entry to the park is free. You can simply wander around, soak up the atmosphere and enjoy the colourful rides without having to buy an admission ticket. You just pay individually for the rides you want to go on. Prices vary by attraction, so check the individual ride prices before joining the queue.
The park’s most famous landmark is the historic Giant Ferris Wheel (Wiener Riesenrad), which dates back to 1897. We didn’t ride it when we visited, but it’s an iconic part of Vienna’s skyline and offers lovely views across the city and surrounding Prater.
I’d recommend allowing a little time to explore Prater, particularly if you’re travelling with children. It’s a fun change of pace from Vienna’s palaces and museums, and you can make your visit as relaxed or action-packed as you like.
For the latest information about attractions, opening times and prices, visit the official Prater website.
The iconic Ferris Wheel in Prater Park
5. See the Palace of Justice
The Palace of Justice is a real hidden gem in Vienna and well worth considering if you enjoy beautiful architecture and discovering places beyond the usual tourist attractions.
When we visited, we had to show identification and pass through security to enter the building, but don’t let that put you off! Inside, the architecture is stunning, with an impressive grand staircase, ornate details and a beautiful glass roof that makes the interior feel almost like something out of a fairytale.
The internal architecture is just beautiful; the grand staircase is like something out of a fairytale. You can also take the lift up to the rooftop café, which offers incredible views over the whole city. (Note: the café is closed on weekends.)
The Palace of Justice is a working courthouse, so visitor access and security arrangements may vary. Check the latest visiting information before visiting, and remember that you’ll need to follow the building’s security procedures.
The grand staircase inside the Palace of Justice.
Final Thoughts on The Best Things to Do in Vienna
Vienna is a beautiful European city with plenty to offer, from its grand architecture and famous opera house to its historic amusement park. Whether you’re interested in culture, sightseeing, or simply soaking up the atmosphere, there’s something to suit different interests and budgets.
We particularly loved discovering experiences that didn’t require a huge budget, from watching a ballet at the Vienna State Opera to exploring the impressive Palace of Justice. And if you’re visiting Vienna with children, Prater is a fun addition to your itinerary, offering rides and entertainment without the cost of a traditional theme-park admission ticket.
If you’re planning a trip to the Austrian capital, I hope our recommendations have given you a few ideas to add to your itinerary.
Other European Destinations You’ll Love:
Planning more European adventures? Explore our travel guides about these destinations:
The United Kingdom – Czechia – Croatia – France – Italy – Montenegro – Switzerland
We hope you’ve enjoyed reading our guide on the best things to do in Vienna, and that you have an amazing trip to Austria!
Happy Exploring,
A London mum sharing stylish, family-friendly travel guides.
I In our travel guides, I show you that you can still travel as a family and create beautiful memories, even when trips aren’t full of kid-centric activities.
When I’m not planning our next adventure, I also share timeless style inspiration and ideas for living more thoughtfully and sustainably.