Day 1: Imperial Splendor & Old Town Charm
Morning
Schönbrunn Palace & Gardens
Start your day with a visit to the Habsburgs’ summer residence. Tour the lavish interiors (Imperial Tour or Grand Tour), stroll the Baroque gardens, check out the Gloriette viewpoint, and maybe visit the Vienna Zoo (the oldest in the world).
Tip: Arrive early (opens around 8:30 AM) to beat the crowds.
Lunch
Glacis Beisl (near MuseumsQuartier) – A hidden courtyard restaurant serving Austrian classics with a modern twist.
Afternoon
Historic Center Walk (Innere Stadt)
Explore the heart of Vienna on foot:
- St. Stephen’s Cathedral – Climb the South Tower for panoramic views.
- Graben & Kohlmarkt – Elegant shopping streets with historic buildings.
- Demel – Famous pastry shop for a slice of Sachertorte or Apple Strudel.
Hofburg Palace Complex
Visit the Imperial Apartments, Sisi Museum, and Silver Collection, or just enjoy the architecture and people-watching in Heldenplatz.
Evening
Classical Concert or Opera
Book a concert at the Musikverein, Vienna State Opera, or Karlskirche for a unique musical experience.
Dinner
Plachutta Wollzeile – Famous for Tafelspitz (boiled beef in broth), a Viennese specialty.
Day 2: Art, Culture & Local Flavo
Morning
Belvedere Palace
Start your day at this elegant baroque palace and art museum. The Upper Belvedere houses masterpieces like Gustav Klimt’s The Kiss.
Café Break
Head to Café Central – One of Vienna’s most historic cafés, once frequented by Trotsky and Freud. Try a Viennese melange and a pastry.
Afternoon
MuseumsQuartier or Albertina
Depending on your interests:
- MuseumsQuartier for modern art (Leopold Museum, MUMOK)
- Albertina for classic works and changing exhibitions
Or take a tram ride around the Ringstrasse for a scenic loop past iconic buildings like the Parliament, City Hall, and Vienna State Opera.
Optional Relaxation
Relax in Stadtpark (look for the golden Johann Strauss statue) or take a stroll through the Naschmarkt, Vienna’s open-air food and flea market.
Dinner & Drinks
Figlmüller – Home of the original Wiener Schnitzel (make reservations!).
Afterward, grab a drink at Das Loft (rooftop bar with skyline views) or enjoy a cozy wine tavern in Grinzing (a short tram ride away).
Quick Tips
- Public transport: Easy and reliable. Get a 48-hour pass.
- Language: German, but English is widely spoken.
- Currency: Euro (€)
- Dress code: Smart casual works for most places; dress up slightly for classical events.
Article sponsored by Wombat’s Hostels
