A Magical Sky view of Old Vienna from atop the famous Wiener Riesenrad Ferris Wheel
The Magic of Vienna – What to Do and Where to Stay

The Magic of Vienna – What to Do and Where to Stay

Vienna, Austria is known worldwide for its beautiful Christmas markets, but it is magical any time of year. The city itself is easy to navigate and offers endless opportunities for history, culture, architecture, cuisine and entertainment. After, enjoying all of the amazing things to do in Salzburg, we went for three full days in The City of Music, even though we could have easily extended our stay to experience even more. Nonetheless, Vienna cast a spell on us and is sure to do the same to you. Planning an adventure to Austria’s capital city can be overwhelming, our guide The Magic of Vienna – What to Do and Where to Stay is here to help.

I wanted to take photos of everything in Vienna! The fountains, the architecture, the landscape – everything is picturesque and ornate. I had to remind myself to slow down and just enjoy the view.

How to Discover the Magic of Vienna:

Discover the History of Vienna & the Hapsburg Dynasty The Entrance Gate to the Imperial Palace in Vienna, Austria

There is so much to do in Vienna, it is hard to know where to start. St. Stephen’s Cathedral is centrally located and has towered over the city for more than 700 years. The cathedral has been the site of many moments in Vienna’s history – including Mozart’s wedding in 1782 and is incredibly beautiful. It is free to walk around (but be sure that you aren’t interfering in services and respect the posted tour times) or you can take a guided tour for €5.50/per adult. St. Stephen’s also offers an incredible view of the city – whether you take the elevator to the North Tower or choose to climb the 363 steps of the South Tower – you will have a bird’s eye view of the entire city – all the way to the Danube River. It is remarkable and quite romantic (if that’s what you are going for).

Planning a trip to Austria’s capital city of #Vienna can be overwhelming! But to help, the Bucket List Project wrote a guide of What to Do & Where to Stay. So sit back & discover The Magic of Vienna! #ViennaNow #ViennaGoForIt Click To Tweet

Once you finish at St. Stephen’s it is a short walk to the Imperial Palace and Treasury. The Palace holds a collection of Imperial museums, but the Treasury is not to be missed. Boasting the title “the most important treasury in the world,” it holds what is thought to be the Holy Grail, two imperial crowns and much more.

The Amazing bookshelves and murals from inside the State Hall of the National Library of Vienna

Also, part of the Imperial Palace Museums is the State Hall of the National Library of Vienna. The library’s ceremonial room is known as the heart of the Austrian National Library and once you step foot inside, you will understand why. More than a library, it is museum of literature and education and one of the most stunning sites you will see in Vienna. It is often tear inducing to its visitors and will leave you with a sense of awe and wonder. It is a must see. Note that it is closed on Mondays October-May and plan accordingly.

Continuing with the Imperial theme, the Imperial Crypt isn’t far from the Palace, located in the Capuchin Church, it has been the burial spot for the Hapsburgs since 1633. Not only is the crypt impressive as the extravagant and ornate resting place of those in the former dynasty, but offers insight into their history and succession.

The fountains in the front lawn of the baroque style Belvedere Palace in Vienna, Austria

Moving on from the Imperial museums, The Belvedere is a baroque palace turned world class art museum in the heart of Vienna. Whether you want to tour the palace and museum to see its incredible art exhibits or take a leisurely stroll through the its magnificent gardens and fountains – you can’t go wrong. The palace was built by Prince Eugene of Savoy who was also a successful military commander.

You can learn more Prince Eugene and the history of Austria’s armed forces at the Museum of Military History. The museum is extensive and houses relics and information from all of Austria’s notable military moments, including the car in which the Archduke Franz Ferdinand and his wife were assassinated to begin WWI and 5,000 square meters of exhibit space focused on military aviation. If military history interests you, this museum is so full of information that it could take and entire day to explore. It is impressive.

Pro Tip: If you purchase a Vienna City Card from the Office of Tourism you will receive more than 210 benefits across the city – including a discount on admission to all of the sites listed above, all other Palace museums as well as free public transportation. 

Experience the Music of Mozart and Beethoven

There is a reason that Vienna is known as The City of Music, it was home to some of the most prolific composers of all time – as they say, in Vienna, music is literally in the air – and at every turn! You can’t go far in Vienna without seeing a plaque noting a tidbit about a famous composer or an opportunity to experience a musical performance.

The musicians of the Vienna Mozart Ochestra who wear period regalia while performing at the Musikverein Vienna, Brahms Hall

You will constantly see people dressed in costume selling tickets to the Vienna Mozart Orchestra and while their salesman can be a little overwhelming, the orchestra itself is phenomenal. The performance consists of some of Mozart’s most famous works, including operatic pieces. As an added bonus, the singers and musicians wear period regalia. We bought tickets online in advance and had great seats that were reasonably priced. Not surprisingly, there are numerous concert halls in Vienna, our orchestra was performed at Musikverein Vienna, Brahms Hall and it was beautiful.

The musicians section of the Vienna Central Cemetery, the final resting place to Beethoven, Brahms and Strauss

After you experience the Orchestra, it is only right to pay your respects to those that wrote such masterpieces. The MozartHaus was Mozart’s Vienna home from 1784-1787 and his only residence in the city to survive. It is now a museum and worth a visit. Additionally, a visit to St. Marx Cemetery where Mozart is believed to be buried as well as Vienna Central Cemetery, the resting place to Beethoven, Brahms and Strauss are must sees for any music enthusiast. Both cemeteries are home to incredible history and beautifully kept. Though they are quite a walk from the middle of town, they are easy to reach via public transportation. You can catch the tram in front of the beautiful Vienna State Opera House or take bus line 11.

Find the Magic of Vienna as a Kid Againthe famous Wiener Riesenrad Ferris Wheel inside the Prater Amusement Park in Vienna, Austria

Everyone loves an amusement park, but Vienna’s Prater Amusement Park is something special. As one of the oldest amusement parks in the world, it exudes charm in the midst of state of the art rides and experiences. Prater is not to be missed and a ride on the famous Wiener Riesenrad Ferris Wheel offers some of the best views in the city. Not only an amusement park, Prater offers numerous events throughout the year as well. Be sure to check the calendar to see what is happening during your visit!

Drink and Dine

While you are going to get a great meal whether you dine at a sidewalk cafe or a Michelin Restaurant in Vienna, there are a couple stops you need to make.

Two original Sacher Tort only served at Café Sacher along with a cafe and hot chocolate

Sacher Tort is a menu staple across Austria, but to find the original Sacher Tort you’ll want to head to Café Sacher.  Here you will discover the true magic of Vienna and why the Sacher Tort at Cafe Sacher is actually better than the rest. You may have to wait in line for a seat, but you won’t regret it. The café is nestled in the heart of Vienna and not only is their Sacher Tort out of this world, but their coffee and other sweets are tasty as well.

Classic Cocktails at the Famous Loos American Bar in Old Town Vienna, Austria

After you’ve satisfied your sweet tooth, head a few blocks away to the Loos American Bar. Built by Austrian architect and pioneer of modern architecture, Adolf Loos in 1908, it is known across the world for its dramatic and surrealist interior, crafted cocktails and rich history. It is a must stop for locals and visitors alike. You won’t regret it.

There are so many things to see & do in Vienna, Austria! But remind yourself to occasionally slow down & just enjoy The Magic of Vienna! #ViennaNow #ViennaGoForIt #DoStepInn Click To Tweet

Where to StayChecking in at the famous luggage desk at the Do Step Inn, in Vienna, Austria

Vienna offers countless hostels, hotels and guest houses for the weary traveler, but Do Step Inn is the perfect budget friendly, centrally located option for anyone. Locally and family owned, every property exudes comfort and friendliness and the service is great. Do Step offers two locations with a third coming soon! We were lucky enough to stay at both locations while visiting Vienna.

Do Step Inn – Westbahnhof: Do Step’s main location near Westbahnhof train station and a short walk to the city center, offers both hotel and hostel accommodations at reasonable rates. You can book a private room with private facilities, a shared room (up to 4 people) with shared facilities or a dormitory style room. They have something for everyone. The facility is comfortable, has a kitchen, bar/lounge area, restaurant (for breakfast) and coffee bar with various common areas including a garden, lounge and billiard room.  Free wi-fi is available.

Do Step Inn – Central: Do Step Inn’s newest location in Vienna offers self-check-in and is a 2-minute walk to the Central Train Station and city center. You can’t go wrong with their private dormitory beds that can be locked completely and have a private plug and reading lamp. It is like sleeping in a train bunk, but without the motion sickness! This offers each guest privacy if they want it and the opportunity to make new friends if desired. Free wi-fi is available and the hostel offers a kitchen and common area for the comfort and convenience of each guest.


Have you ever enjoyed the Magic of Vienna? Which of the Things to do in Vienna is your favorite or is definitely going on your Bucket List? Have we left out other things to do in Vienna that you would recommend? Let us know in the comments below!

Don’t forget to Pin The Magic of Vienna to your favorite Bucket List Travel Board!A Pinterest Picture featuring Vienna Mozart Orchestra as part of the Magic of Vienna, Austria

Disclaimer: The Bucket List Project was a guest of the Vienna Tourism & Do Step Inn. With that said, All opinions in “The Magic of Vienna – What to Do and Where to Stay” are our own. Also, this post may contain affiliate links. Using the links doesn’t cost you any extra, and it helps keep the site free, fun, and community supported! Eric & Darcee will never recommend a product that we don’t genuinely believe in, actually use ourselves, have researched, and trust. Please see the disclosure policy for more information.

Darcee Snider Gamble is the author of the Magic of Vienna, a Guide to What to do & Where to Stay in Vienna, AustriaAbout Our Guest Poster:

Darcee Snider is a Wyoming native, who appreciates the work ethic and strong values that growing up in the Cowboy State afforded her.  New Orleans has been a part of Darcee for a long time and she is excited to now be a part of New Orleans. She believes there is truly nowhere else like the Big Easy and the experiences it affords its citizens; she can’t wait to share them with the family and friends that are sure to visit.  Passion for literature, food, history, adventure and music are reasons why living in New Orleans is such an important part of Darcee’s story. She writes each chapter by enjoying the wonders of the Carousel Bar, exploring the WWII Museum, walking the streets of Uptown, navigating the hidden gems of the French Quarter and eating a Po-Boy at Mahony’s.

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97 thoughts on “The Magic of Vienna – What to Do and Where to Stay”

  1. This post transported me back to the regal streets of Vienna and the very Opera House where I could witness the magic of Mozart. Also enjoyed Prater and the Ferris wheel is epic !!!

  2. What I really love about Vienna is it’s a very walkable city! You get to places really quick and everywhere you go seems so artful. Nonetheless, you’ll still find me playing arcade in Prater!haha

  3. I’m thinking about visiting Vienna in the Fall. I would like to experience the Vienna Mozart Orchestra, and eat Sacher Tort. I think wandering around looking at all the fabulous architecture will also be a highlight for me

  4. I remember being blown away by the Ringstrasse area and spending hours in the Museum Quartier and Habsburg Palace. All those extravagant cafes and elegant buildings of Vienna are so precious. Would love to go back.

  5. Oh wow, the Sacher Torte looks absolutely divine! I’m a huge classical fan, so I would love to see the MozartHaus. And what an incredible experience to listen to Mozart at the orchestra in Vienna.

  6. Vienna is absolutely amazing! Listening to the Vienna Motzart Orchestra in person would be an incredible experience, that Sacher Tort looks incredible I would love to take a bite out of that right now! xo – kam

  7. Incredibly photography and such beautiful architecture. Visiting Vienna and listening to classical music is on my list. Great article and I look forward to visiting Vienna soon.

  8. Ah, Vienna… is so on my bucket list! I love all the city vibe, all the music is the air, like you said. It must feel sometimes that you’re in another era. Will definitely visit it in the future.

  9. I’m in Vienna at least once every year and it never get’s old – despite the fact that there is a lot of amazing ‘old’ around. But I also love the art galleries and museums – it’s a super-cultural place.

    1. I agree Renata. I love how old mixes with the new. We are deathly going to have to return and explore more museums. In fact we’re going to be there in January on our honeymoon via a Viking cruise. So I’m very excited to explore more of it. Maybe will see you there next time.

  10. There really is so much to do in Vienna. I love music so visiting all things Mozart would be my first priority. And “stepping back in time” by attending a Mozart concert with performers in costume sounds awesome!

  11. I loved hearing about Vienna. I can almost imagine costumed symphony ticket scalpers combing the streets. It’s quite a magnificent image really and are rightful tribute to some of the best music in history.

    1. Yeah it’s really a neat Experience. What we really liked was those tickets scalpers were often dressed in period costume. didn’t feel like you’re being hustled but more entertained.

  12. This is a fantastic guide to Vienna! Loved it. I was there for two days on a cruise last year and somehow missed the Prater Amusement Park. I would have loved seeing that. I remember all my middle school history lessons about the Hapsburgs coming back to me as the guides led us through St. Stephen’s and the Imperial Palace.

  13. I have never thought of visiting libraries when I travel, but this one made me think about it. So beautiful!

  14. I visited Vienna 21 years ago this month and loved it. I so enjoyed reliving my trip through your post and pictures. My visit was way back before digital photography, so I have maybe five pictures of my time there.

    1. I bet your pics look amazing though. I have a similar experience when I went to Rome, Switzerland, & Paris back in 1998. I just recently saw those pics of mine and realized that I took maybe 25 pics total which was a ton of pics for me. I am curious though to take those pics with me and return to those places to see the change in time. I wonder if Vienna looks any different in your pics 21 years later?

  15. That ceiling inside the treasury is just insane! It’s hard to believe that people actually created that. I’d love to return to Vienna, I only spent a quick 48 hours there but loved what I saw.

  16. Oh my goodness, so much to do and see. Of course, we would have to pay tribute to Mozart and his music. But, I’m also intrigued by the Imperial Palace and Treasury and the burial grounds of the Hapsburgs. I’d get wonderfully lost in the history of Vienna.

  17. If not for this post, I would have no idea where to start planning a trip to Vienna. So many magical places! I’ve always wanted to see the Vienna Mozart Orchestra, so awesome to know that it’s worth it!

  19. This post makes me want to go back to Vienna so badly! I only spent a few days there the first time around and would love to go back and visit someday.

  22. What a great list of things to see and do in Vienna! I’d love to visit someday so this is super informative and helpful.

  23. Venice is an incredible place, I will need to visit again this time as a blogger, thanks for sharing such an informative post, which I have bookmarked.

  24. Vienna is right up on my bucket list so I loved reading this post! I think the sumptuous buildings and music halls would be high up on my list (I used to be a classical music student so it feels criminal I’ve not yet visited Vienna), but honestly the first thing I’d do is grab a slice of Sacher Torte – it’s long me on my list and I want to taste the original!

    1. You sound just like me Samantha. Classically-trained French horn player who performed thousands of pieces from the composers who came out of Vienna and Salzburg and the first thing I do when I get there? Head straight for the Mozart Kugel in Salzburg and Sacher Torte in Vienna. Chocolate will always be my number one

  25. That ferris wheel really caught my attention, as I love the cars on the wheel. Vienna looks to have a lot of amazing architecture and fun things to go along with it. The art work that went into the musical artists looks to be something memorable, as well. Vienna looks like a great place to visit!

  26. Vienna looks lovely and I like the way you have summarised this post. There is plenty to see and do here. Your tips on staying will be really helpful too. Going to bookmark this for my future reference. Thanks for sharing

  27. This is wonderful! I’ve actually heard people say, “Skip Vienna” before, but I knew there was a lot to discover. If only for the music alone – I grew up playing classical music on the piano, so I’d love to hear the music of Mozart and Beethoven in a city like Vienna. So important in music history! Thanks for the great article.

  28. I’m a huge Mozart and Beethoven fan, so a visit to Vienna is high on my list. I’d be totally up for a concert and I appreciate the tips on the Do Step Inn. It’s nice they have a couple of locations.

  29. I’m planning to go to Vienna this fall. It would be my second time, but the first time I only stayed there for two days. I found your post very useful because it gave me some tips on where to stay and what to visit while there.

  30. I totally get it that you wanted to take pictures of everything – Vienna is super- picturesque everywhere you go. Just the facades and the old metro stations are super-nice. You’ve been to the Sacher? Wow, that’s how the other half lives: Although I’m in Vienna practically every year, I’ve never made it there.

  31. I was there for 10 days 9 years ago! I really want to go back. While I did see lots of stuffs that typical tourist won’t simply because my husbabd’s brother was living there and got the local’s taste, which was great! But I missed quite a bit of main touristic stuffs. I was there in November and got to see the Christmas market, it’s just magical!

  32. My husband and I honeymooned in Vienna so I may be a little bias but it has to be the most romantic city in Europe. Wonderful itinerary for visitors, the only thing I would add is schnitzel!! One must eat wiener schnitzel when in Vienna 🙂

    1. You’re right Meaghan there is no doubt everyone needs to eat the Schnitzel I probably gained 40 pounds of schnitzel because I had it with almost every meal, whether it was pork or veal it was so good!

  33. Vienna really does seem like a magical city! I am a little bit afraid of ferris wheels, but I love the style of this one and wouldn’t mind a ride. I can just imagine spending days here wandering the city and sampling the sights and food.

  34. A really thorough guide! I am planning on revisiting Vienna this summer hopefully and will definitely need to check out some of the places that you recommend!

  35. I don’t read many posts about Vienna so I’m glad to come across this one. It looks like such a beautiful place and there are so many things to do it seems. I would like to visit the the cathedral and probably go experience the Mozart music most of all. But I would definitely enjoy just getting lost walking the streets.

  36. My grandmother was born in Vienna but I’ve only been once, 17 years ago. Would love to go again, and your article really brings it to life! Thank you for sharing.

  37. I have always been fascinated with Vienna for precisely what you describe. The whole royal connection. The crypt seems really interesting for me – not just for its scenic description but for the history that it unveils. The museums and the Abbey – no missing those. Nice tips on places to stay. cheers

  38. Vienna seems beautiful through your lenses. Also, thanks for the tip on getting a Vienna City Card. Will definitely get one when I’m there!

  39. Yes, nice guide. Hits a lot of differing experiences from music to art to architecture and food. Nicely done piece.

  40. Vienna is a city I’ve been wanting to go back to for decades, I spent only a day there some decades ago and that was definitely not enough. You’ve identified a lot of the key attractions for me, from the history and historical architecture, to the food and drinks of the city, especially the coffee and cake culture!

  41. Wonderful tips and quite the comprehensive list. I’m fascinated with all things Mozart, so I’d love exploring here and listening to the Mozart orchestra, too. I’ve always wanted to visit Vienna!

    1. Yeah if you love all things Mozart Tami that you will love Austria in general. Vienna is definitely great for that but also look at Salzburg where he was born and lived. We got to explore they’re also and wrote about it here on the blog. It was probably my favorite city in Austria the Vienna is a very close second.

  43. We loved Vienna and your post has helped us relive our time there. How good is the Sachertorte? One of my favourite cakes from around the world. Thanks for sharing

  44. I have a bit of a love affair with Vienna – easily the most romantic city in Europe! I personally couldn’t get enough of the architecture, but also how clean the city is, its beautiful gardens, and the lively atmosphere, full of music, people and food. We did the steps to the top of St. Stephen’s Cathedral and you’re right, it was an incredible view. Followed by the Crypts, so it sounds like we did the same itinerary as you – great minds must think alike! So glad you had a fabulous time 🙂

  45. Vienna has been one of my favorite cities ever since I was a girl reading books about Viennese court, Maria Theresia and the imperial palaces. I agree that the Sacher Torte is the most delicious thing!

  46. I hear great things bout Vienna time & time again, it looks so stunning. Yes, it can be expensive (so I’ve heard) but what major city in Europe isn’t.

  47. Really good information on Vienna! I’d love to go back. The last time we were there it was only for a day our highlight was the Spanish Riding School, a must visit for anyone with any interest in riding.

  48. We visited with the snow, for the Christmas markets and I didn’t make it to see the Vienna Mozart Orchestra! I still feel so bad about it because I would’ve loved to attend and it’s still on my bucket list! Good idea to buy tickets online in advance!

  49. Vienna is a magical city filled with history, music, and arts. An incredible itinerary that covers historic sights, fun for kids and great food! Thanks for the tips and I will keep it for my next visit to Austria! @ knycx.journeying

  50. I only spent a few hours in Wien back in 2007 and havent been back since and I really need to go back and check out these amazing places listed. I love Austria but never really been back to the capital as I always land up in the Alps area 😀

    1. I understand what you mean. We went to Innsbruck and Salzburg also and love them so I can see how you could get distracted by that region

  51. So many incredible things to do in Vienna! Personally, I’d love to explore and get to know more of the city’s history. The Treasury sounds very interesting to explore.. I’d love to see the Holy Grail and the imperial crowns.. Were you able to go around and see them?

    1. All of the sites are truly beautiful. I don’t believe we saw the Imperial crowns because we ran out of time and spent a lot of time in the library

  53. Vienna is such an elegant city. Old world yes, but with such a polished classical aesthetic. The music, architecture and culture there are few cities like Vienna in the world.

    Thanks for sharing. Keep travel blogging. Adventure is better shared with friends!

  54. We were in Austria last summer and loved visiting Vienna. The Belvedere was our favorite and listening to famous Morzart works at the Musikverein and of course those Sacher Tart!

  55. I have a friend whose currently booking a trip to Vienna, will be sure to pass along the great travel tips and direct her to this post.

  58. I haven’t been to Vienna but I’ve always wanted to go. Nice to see there’s quite a bit of things to do, I’ve always just thought of the natural beauty of the area.

  59. Vienna is definitely on my list of places to visit – I have been to Austria, but only Mayrhofen, a town in the Zillertal Valley, in the west Austrian province of Tyrol. I was there for Snowbombing Festival for work, so didn’t even explore much of the area unfortunately 🙁 Would love to go back to Austria and see more! x

    1. Becca you were so close essentially you were in the middle of Vienna and Salzburg. I love to be Anna but if you really like the small Austria feel, you may want to go to Salzburg first. I enjoyed it a wee bit more than Vienna and that was after we went to Innsbrook and Mieders in the Tyrol region

  60. I’ve always wanted to go to Vienna, it just looks so beautiful! I’m going to have to keep these places in mind when I finally make it over there.

  64. Great information about Vienna! This place looks like a dream, that I would love to visit and explore one day. Your photos are so beautiful!

  66. It would be awesome to be in the place where great musicians and composers once lived! The buildings are breathtaking in its beauty! Hopefully, I could visit someday!

  67. Absolutely beautiful and such an amazing experience. I have never been to Vienna. I’ll refer back to this is if I should ever have the opportunity to go. Thanks!

  69. I love the idea of staying in Vienna…mainly because I grew up obsessed with The Sound of Music! This definitely makes me want to get some plans going!

    1. well Vienna is magnificent, however if you really want to dive into the world of The Sound of Music, Salzburg is the city you want to visit. Check out our article on Salzburg and all the cool Sound of Music stuff to do there!

  70. I loved Vienna when I visited last year. The Sachertorte is amazing, and we were lucky to stay at Sacher Hotel, the original home of the cake! MozartHaus and his music is a must see and listen to when there! A lovely vibrant city.

    1. You stayed in the sacher hotel? That’s really cool how was it inside? We went to the cafe where the cake is made and the hotel did look neat but we didn’t really get a chance to look around

    1. Both do step Inn locations for great because you are right next to the Metro or a bus line but if I had to choose only one I personally would like the central because it seem to be located to closer things that we like to do.

  72. thats quite a detailed post..thanks for covering evryhting in one post…library looks amazing..and thanks for the advice on city card..can save some money using it..

  74. Wonderful tips, I have been to Vienna 4 years ago, but reading this – I want to go back to wander these streets one more time!

  76. Vienna is lovely and I really liked how you summarized the things to do there in a day with a bonus info of where to stay as well. Starting with visiting the historical places and ending the day with a good meal is just an example of a perfect day I would look forward to in Vienna.

  77. That library looks amazing! Love the tip about the Vienna city card, really useful 😊 will be putting this place on my to-visit list!

    1. Yeah the library was Darcee’s favourite and using the Vienna City card was a lifesaver cuz saved us so much money and helped us get around town for free

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