Vienna is a city of many faces. For some, it is a place full of architectural monuments and museums. For others, it is the capital of extreme entertainment and gastronomic discoveries. We have put together some ideas on what to do in Vienna to make your holiday unforgettable.
Concerts
Concerts are held in Vienna almost every day. Here you can listen to a wide variety of music styles, from classical to contemporary rhythms.
The most famous venues are the Vienna State Opera and the Musikverein, where the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra performs.
Popular concerts in Vienna also take place in restaurants and cafés, where well-known artists rehearse their programs.
The underground of Vienna
Concerts in Vienna are undoubtedly wonderful. But hidden beneath the feet of tourists exploring the Austrian capital are kilometers of underground passages. Descend into them to learn the dark stories of Vienna.
Under the famous St. Stephen's Cathedral, you will find urns containing the remains of members of the Habsburg dynasty. Another burial place for nobles is the catacombs under the Kapuzinerkirche church.
Beneath the bustling streets of Vienna, you can also find an old pharmacy, an abandoned bomb shelter, and the mummies of prominent Austrians.
When setting off to explore the underground, wear comfortable shoes and don’t forget to take a torch.
Walking tour of Vienna with an audio guide
If you want to explore Vienna at your own pace, without a group or schedule, an audio guide is an excellent companion. Just put on your headphones, turn on the app, and the city will come to life.
Sightseeing tour of ViennaThe audio guide will take you through the city centre, tell you stories about palaces and small streets, and suggest where to turn to find a cosy café or a hidden detail. It’s almost like having a personal guide, only without someone else’s schedule.
Water adventures
Vienna is a city that can also be explored from the water. If you want to admire the embankments and architecture, choose a cruise on the Danube. Pleasant bonuses on board include Viennese cuisine and live music.
» READ MORE – Cruises on the Danube: water adventures in Vienna
In Vienna, you can try your hand at sailing. An experienced instructor will explain all the ins and outs of sailing a yacht. You can even stand at the helm!
For those who want to see the surroundings of Vienna, a tour to the Wachau Valley is a great choice. You will ride on a comfortable boat, admire the forests and fields, and stroll through the town of Dürnstein.
For lovers of active recreation, Vienna also offers kayaking, diving, and stand-up paddleboarding excursions.
Horse show
The Lipizzaner horse breed was developed over 400 years ago during the Habsburg era. Today, the Spanish Riding School in Vienna continues to train and present these amazingly strong and elegant animals.
We recommend attending a horse show to admire the beauty and grace of the Lipizzaner horses.
It’s even more fascinating to visit their training sessions at the Spanish Riding School. There you will see how trainers and horses practice tricks and perfect their riding techniques.
Wiener Riesenrad Ferris wheel
In Vienna’s Prater Park, there is a Ferris wheel that has been operating since the end of the 19th century. It was built for the 50th anniversary of the Emperor of Austria.
The old wheel rises to the height of a 20-storey building, offering a unique opportunity to see Vienna from a new perspective.
The Ferris wheel completes one revolution in 10–15 minutes, giving you plenty of time to admire the views.
The cabins are designed to resemble train carriages and have appeared in numerous Hollywood films. Bond fans will surely recognize them!
There is also a small museum near the Ferris wheel, where rare cabins have been turned into installations about the history of Prater Park.
Dinner at the Danube Tower
Want to climb the tallest tower in Austria and dine with a magnificent view of the city? Easy! The Danube Tower stands 252 meters high – taller than an 80-storey building.
Don’t worry: you won’t have to climb it on foot. A high-speed lift will take you to the top in less than a minute.
At the tower, you can enjoy traditional Austrian cuisine in authentic restaurants and cafés. The interiors are decorated in a retro style, giving you the feeling of stepping back in time.
Be sure to book a table in advance.
Would you like to slide down a slide at a height of 165 meters? The Danube Tower offers this unusual entertainment too. The slide is half-transparent, so you can enjoy breathtaking views of Vienna as you descend.
Dance lessons
If you have already been to a concert in Vienna but still want more classical music, it’s time for a dance master class! Vienna is the birthplace of the famous Viennese waltz – a perfect reason to learn this elegant dance.
During the class, an experienced instructor will teach you the basic steps and share the history of the waltz.
The lesson takes place in the atmosphere of a real ball: a mirrored hall, high ceilings, and classical music. Even if you have never danced before, don’t miss this chance. It will be a memory you’ll treasure for years to come.
Wine tasting
There are many ways to explore Austrian wines in Vienna. For example, you can take a tour of private vineyards, where winemakers will guide you through their production facilities.
If you prefer to stay in the city, join a wine tasting with an experienced sommelier. You will sample both Austrian white and red varieties and discuss their subtle flavors while enjoying traditional Viennese ham.
Cooking master class
Apple strudel has been baked in Vienna for centuries and is served in every local café. But a dish made with your own hands always tastes even better. To experience being a pastry chef, join a culinary master class dedicated to making strudel.
Vienna Woods
Have you already been to concerts, tasted local wines, and explored the catacombs? Then a walk in the Vienna Woods is a perfect way to conclude your trip.
This area, often called the green lungs of Vienna, lies on the city’s outskirts and even stretches into a small part of the city itself.
Beneath the canopy of centuries-old trees, you can take long walks, gather mushrooms, enjoy picnics, or engage in sports.
While walking among beech and pine trees, you might come across the medieval Liechtenstein Castle, which once belonged to the ruling family of the same name.
The Vienna Woods are also home to two monasteries, an underground lake, and a chapel that marks the mysterious death site of the Austrian emperor’s son.
Exploring the Vienna Woods on your own is enjoyable, but going with a guide is even more interesting. A guide will share the history, secrets, and legends of the area. You will also get to take a boat ride on the underground lake and taste local wines.
Vienna is a city where there is always something to do. Entertainment here ranges from quiet evenings with a glass of wine to thrilling water adventures. Whatever your style, you are sure to have a memorable experience – come and see for yourself!
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