What to do in Vienna? 8 must-see sites to visit in the Austrian capital

Get immersed in the heart of the Austrian capital by discovering its most emblematic sites, from museums to cathedrals and opera houses.

Full of music, history and architecture, Vienna is a city of elegance and cultural richness. Are you an art enthusiast, or perhaps you have a taste for new discoveries? The Austrian capital is brimming with sites ready to take you to another world. Here are 8 must-see places for a memorable trip.

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Schönbrunn Palace, a Baroque masterpiece

Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Schönbrunn Palace is a former imperial residence. It offers an insight into the history of the Habsburg monarchy. Don't miss the Great Gallery and the Gloriette, each offering their own panoramic views over the city.

Schönbrunn Palace

Schönbrunner Schloßstraße 47

1130 Vienna

Austria

schoenbrunn.at

St Stephen's Cathedral, the symbol of Vienna

Right in the heart of the city, St Stephen's Cathedral, also known as Stephansdom, is a Gothic masterpiece. Its colourful tiled roof and 137-metre-high south tower are impressive architectural elements. If you’re up to challenge, why not climb the monument's 343 steps to admire Vienna from an exceptional vantage point.

St Stephen's CathedralStephansplatz 3

1010 Vienna

Austria

+43 1 515523530

stephanskirche.at

The Hofburg, the heart of imperial power

A former residence of the Habsburgs, the Hofburg is a vast complex housing palaces, museums and the famous Spanish Riding School. It is by and large Vienna's most visited site, where tourists can explore the Imperial Apartments, the Imperial Treasury and the Sisi Museum, which reveals the fascinating life of Empress Elisabeth of Austria.

HofburgAlbertinaplatz/Maysedergasse

1010 Vienna

Austria

wien.info

The Belvedere, housing a vast collection of art

The Belvedere Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, consists of two Baroque palaces surrounded by superb formal gardens. This must-see venue exhibits masterpieces of Austrian art, including Gustav Klimt's The Kiss, a piece that draws in art lovers from all over the world.

The Belvedere

Prinz-Eugen-Straße 27

1030 Vienna

Austria

+43 1 795570

belvedere.at

The Vienna State Opera, the temple of music

Considered to be one of the most prestigious opera houses in the world, the Wiener Staatsoper is a temple of operatic arts. Whether it's for a guided tour or a Mozart symphony, the charm of this emblematic venue leaves no one indifferent.

Vienna State OperaOpernring 2

1010 Vienna

Austria

+43 1 514442250

wiener-staatsoper.at

The Albertina Museum, a treasure trove for art lovers

Located near the Hofburg, the Albertina Museum houses one of the world's most important collections of prints and drawings, with works by Albrecht Dürer, Pablo Picasso and Claude Monet. It also hosts exciting temporary exhibitions, all in elegant surroundings.

Albertina Museum

Albertinapl. 1

1010 Vienna

Austria

+43 1 534830

albertina.at

Prater Park, a playful, green interlude

For a relaxed atmosphere, head for the Prater. This iconic park is a breath of fresh air right in the heart of the city. Take a stroll along its lush green avenues, have a picnic or enjoy its many attractions, such as its famous Ferris wheel, the Riesenrad.

Prater ParkRiesenradplatz 2

1020 Vienna

Austria

+43 1 7292000

praterwien.com

The Hundertwasserhaus, one-of-a-kind architecture

With its bright colours, wavy shapes and trees growing right on the balconies, the Hundertwasserhaus stands in stark contrast to Vienna's more typical aesthetic. This residential complex, designed by artist Friedensreich Hundertwasser, is a hymn to creativity and an ode to nature.

Hundertw

HundertwasserhausKegelgasse 36-38

1030 Vienna

Austria

hundertwasserhaus.info