Top 10 over ting at gøre i Wien
1. Vienna Opera
Built in 1869, this majestic building was used for various plays, operas as well as the annual Vienna Ball. This was one of the first attractions, restored after the war, and remains the symbol of Austrian traditions and love for music and arts. A visit to the Staatsoper is among the top 10 things to do in Vienna.
2. Liechtenstein museum
This Palace Museum is named after the royal family of Liechtenstein, one of the oldest noble families in Europe. Museum contains the family’s private art collection, including sculptures, porcelain, tapestries and masterpieces by Rembrandt and Rubens.
3. Belvedere Palace
This grand baroque palace complex was built in the 18th century for a distinguished general, Prince Eugene of Savoy, as his summer residence. Here visitors have a chance to marvel at the remarkable “Kiss” by Klimt. In December there is an annual festive Christmas bazaar where visitors are offered traditional gluhwein and hand-made ornaments.
4. Hofburg
From 13th century this was developed as the winter residence of the Austrian Habsburg family. With the increasing power of the family, the palace was expanded and turned into a magnificent monumental building and location of the Imperial Court. Nowadays this is the official residence of the President of Austria, and one can find the National Library, the Imperial Treasury, Museum of Ethnography and the outstanding Spanish Riding School here.
5. Schönbrunn Palace
Schönbrunn Palace is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most important cultural attractions in Austria. This was the residence of Austrian Emperors and one can still see the magnificent apartments dating back to the 17th century. Altogether there are 1441 rooms in the palace, out of which only 40 can be visited. The Schlosspark adjacent to the palace is filled with magnificent gardens, fountains and sculptures and is perfect for long walks.
6. St Stefan’s Cathedral
Without a doubt visiting this ecclesiastical jewel is one of the top 10 things to do in Vienna. Built in the beginning of the 12th century, Stephansdom is the landmark and a national symbol of Vienna. This grand Gothic monument is located in the central square and for centuries was considered one of the tallest buildings in Europe. Visitors can view the main exhibit hall, as well as climb one of the two towers or descend into the catacombs.
7. Ringstrasse
When in Vienna, one absolutely must take a tram ride around the impressive main boulevard, called Ringstrasse, stretched over more than 5 kilometers. Considering the peak traffic hours, it is best to do in the morning around 11 o’clock. There are various attractions located within walking distance, including the University of Vienna, one of the oldest universities in Europe, built in the 14th century.
8. Museum Quarter
Located at the further part of the old city, Museum Quarter is a popular meeting point. It is a complex of museums and cultural attractions, shops, restaurants and cafes. Visitors can find the Leopold Museum, exhibiting Austrian art of 19th and 20th centuries, as well as the high-tech Museum of Modern Art – MUMOK.
9. Donauturm
Located at the height of 150m, this observation deck provides a magnificent panoramic view of the city. Visitors can choose either the open-air or glass-panelled sections to appreciate the view. Vienna is known for its coffee traditions and delicious pastries, and among more than 2000 Kaffehäuser, there is a gorgeous café and a restaurant on top of the Danube Tower.
10. Naschmarkt
This popular outdoor market stretches over the Wien River and offers a wide array of products, including fresh fruits and vegetables, local cheese and pastry, and other delicacies. There are vendors with street food, as well as restaurants scattered along the market for a more solid meal.