Vienna is the gem of Austria aside from being its capital city. There are endless opportunities when it comes to top-rated places to visit in Vienna. It is the center of commercial and culture for locals both for business and leisure. As you set foot to the city, you will be welcomed by spectacular palaces and a stunning view of nature. It is one of the world’s safest places to visit because of its very low crime rate, unpolluted air, and affordable yet accessible public transportation.
1. Vienna State Opera House
The first of the many best things to do in Vienna is to watch a musical show at the State Opera House. It already hosted many of the World-renowned singers, composers, dancers, and conductors. Every year there are an estimated 300 performances done on the stage that started way back to 1625. The seating capacity can accommodate 2,211 audiences and almost 110 performers inside. You can book a visit and watch the famous Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra.
2. Schonbrunn Palace
Established in the 1600s, the Schonbrunn Palace has been an important part of Austria’s culture and history. There are amazingly 1441 rooms inside to roam around, but not all are available for tourists to see. If you are a fan of old-style architecture, then you will not have any second thought including this on your list as you think of what to do in Vienna. The building was constructed in Baroque style with lots of windows as well as statues.
3. Schonbrunn Garden
The beauty of the Palace will not be completed without its well-landscaped Schonbrunn Garden. If you are amazed at fairytale gardens, then the best things to do in Vienna inside this garden is to take a magical walk. Feel free to take unforgettable photos with colorful flower beds, hedge maze and the popular Neptune fountain. You do not have to walk all day long as there is a café where you can enjoy a drink and admire the beauty of the garden.
4. Hofburg
To complete your historical tour, Hofburg Palace is a significant place for the Austrian President. The place is a showcase of the architectural style of the Renaissance, Gothic, Baroque and Rococo style. Inside are different Vienna attractions such as Sisi Museum, Imperial Chapel, Imperial Apartments, and the known Silver Collections.
5. St. Stephen’s Cathedral
The construction of the Cathedral before it reaches the full glory has been a huge part of the history that started during the 12th-century Romanesque style. It was replaced in the 13th century using Late Romanesque. Next in line are the 14th-century Gothic style architecture and the admired 137 meter Tower built during the 15th century. The construction of the Cathedral was completed after the Second World War.
6. Rathaus
Another great showcase of architectural design is the New Gothic style of Rathaus a famous town hall situated at Rathausplatz. The Palace is one of the most significant places to visit in Vienna that houses the office of the mayor. You will be in awe of its five towers at the center and momentous Rathausman statue. If you want to save time, you can opt for a guided tour for a well-planned walk through the building.
7. Vienna Zoo
The Tiergarten Schonbrunn Zoo is known as the oldest zoo around the world. Make sure that it is on your list of what to do in Vienna because it will take you closer to nature. It is good to know that you will find endangered species inside like pandas, sea lions, giraffes, and sloths. You will be entertained by their seasoned Zookeepers and a walk through the virtual Amazon rainforest.
8. Natural History Museum
Vienna’s Natural History Museum is another sought after the best things to do in Vienna. Inside are a huge collection of artifacts and exhibits that showcases the origin and development of human evolution. You will be thrilled to see the largest meteorite exhibition in the world and the figurine called Venue of Willendorf that was known to exist way back 25,000 BCE.
9. Prater Amusement Park
As you can see, Vienna attractions are not all about indoor activities, this is imperative especially if you are traveling with kids. They will not feel any boredom as you take them inside this amusement park. You can enter the place for free and pay only for individual rides or just roam around the park and eat inside with your kids. There is a wide range of rides to choose from that includes an amazing rollercoaster ride.
10. Spanish Riding School
The riding school is open for all locals and tourists from different parts of the world. This is not just an ordinary riding school because it is Austria’s tradition that has been around for hundreds of years. It was built far from Habsburg Monarchy and maintained up to this modern time.