Vienna
Vienna, the elegant capital of Austria, is the perfect starting point for a journey through the country. Centrally located in Europe, the city offers excellent connections to other Austrian regions as well as international destinations. But Vienna itself also impresses with a unique blend of imperial grandeur, modern culture, and a relaxed way of life.
We chose Vienna for our first night as the starting point of our trip and were immediately immersed in the city’s special atmosphere. We were particularly impressed by the magnificent Vienna State Opera, the traditional Naschmarkt with its wide variety of specialties, and the fascinating Museum of Art History.
In this section, we’ll show you:
The best ways to get to Vienna
Our recommendations for stylish and central accommodations
Culinary highlights from classic coffeehouses to Viennese cuisine
Must-see sights you shouldn’t miss
Get inspired and discover Vienna’s highlights with us!
Provider: ÖBB Nightjet (outbound) & Deutsche Bahn ICE (return)
Cost: Approx. €80 per person (round trip)
Outbound Trip to Vienna
Route: Cologne → Vienna with ÖBB Nightjet
Departure: Evening, around 10:00–11:00 PM
Duration: Approx. 11–13 hours
Comfort: Seat compartment with reclining seats; the seat base can be pushed forward for a semi-lying position.
Advantage: Travel overnight and arrive in Vienna in the morning—relaxed and without transfers.
Return Trip to Germany
Route: Vienna → Frankfurt with ICE
Duration: Approx. 7 hours
Comfort: Direct daytime connection with plenty of legroom, free Wi-Fi, and onboard bistro.
Advantage: Fast and comfortable return with scenic views along the way.
Our Accommodations in Vienna
Blackhome Wien
Location
The apartment building is centrally located in Vienna and offers good access to public transport. The city center can be reached within minutes, ideal for city travelers who want to explore Vienna flexibly and with ease.
Cost
Around 100 euros per night
Value for money: Very good
✔ Positive
Modern and stylish interior
Great location with fast connection to the city center
Easy self check in at the machine – perfect for flexible arrival times
✖ Negative
Nothing worth mentioning
Conclusion
Blackhome Vienna is the perfect choice for those who value design, comfort and independence. Thanks to its central location, fair price and easy check in, it is especially recommended for couples or solo travelers who want to stay in Vienna in a stylish and independent way.
a&o Hostel Wien Central Station
Location
The hostel is centrally located, just about a five minute walk from Vienna Central Station. An ideal location for those arriving by train or looking for easy access to the city and the airport.
Cost
Around 90 euros per night for a double room
Value for money: Okay to rather poor
✔ Positive
Central location near the main station
Breakfast was sufficient, although quite basic
Fast and easy access to public transport
✖ Negative
Rooms are poorly soundproofed
Very minimal and simple furnishings
Lacks charm or a cozy atmosphere
Conclusion
The a and o Hostel Vienna Central Station stands out mainly for its central location and convenient accessibility. If you are not looking for luxury and just need a place to sleep, this place will do the job.
Food and Dining in Vienna
Reinthaler’s Beisl
Location
Centrally located in Vienna, just a few minutes’ walk from Stephansplatz metro station.
Our Impression
A traditional Viennese Beisl with a cozy atmosphere and friendly service. The menu features classic Austrian dishes such as Wiener Schnitzel (also available vegetarian), Käsespätzle, and spinach dumplings.
Value for Money
Very good, especially considering the central location.
Conclusion
Reinthaler’s Beisl is an excellent choice for anyone wanting to enjoy authentic Viennese cuisine in a traditional setting.
Cafe Central
Location
Located in Vienna’s first district, just a short walk from the Hofburg and the Herrengasse metro station.
Our Impression
A traditional Viennese coffeehouse with a stunning historic interior – high ceilings, marble columns, and elegant furnishings give the café its unique charm. We had breakfast here and tried the Kaiserschmarrn, both delicious and beautifully presented. Despite the crowd, the service was attentive.
Value for Money
Good – slightly more expensive, but fair for the quality and atmosphere.
Conclusion
Café Central is a true experience and perfect for a stylish breakfast or a classic Viennese dessert. If you want to enjoy the charm of a traditional Viennese coffeehouse, this is the place to be.
Stöckl im Park
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Location
Idyllically located in the Belvedere Palace Gardens, easily reachable on foot or by tram from the main train station.
Our Impression
A cozy tavern with a lovely terrace and traditional charm. We did a beer tasting here and shared a starter platter with Obazda, pretzels, spreads, and other Bavarian-Austrian specialties – everything was fresh, flavorful, and beautifully presented. The atmosphere was relaxed, and the service was attentive and friendly.
Value for Money
Good – fair prices for the quality, location, and portion size.
Conclusion
Stöckl im Park is the perfect spot for anyone looking to enjoy quality beer in a peaceful setting. Whether in the shady beer garden or the stylish indoor area, it’s a great escape from the city buzz.
SOFI Vera Pizza Napoletana
Location
Centrally located in Vienna’s 1st district, on a quiet side street near Schwedenplatz.
Our Impression
A stylish, modern spot with a focus on authentic Neapolitan pizza. We had pizza here, paired with an Aperol Spritz, both of which were excellent. The dough was fluffy, the ingredients high-quality and authentic. The staff was friendly and attentive.
Value for Money
Good
Conclusion
Perfect for a relaxed dinner with an Aperitivo vibe right in the heart of the city.
Brasserie Palmenhaus
Location
Right in the Burggarten, between the Hofburg and Albertina, centrally located yet quiet.
Our Impression
The atmosphere at Palmenhaus is truly special: high glass ceilings, tropical plants, and stylish interior create a unique flair. The staff was friendly and attentive. We stopped by for a coffee, and while the location was impressive, we were not particularly impressed by the taste of the coffee.
Value for Money
Rather upscale, with prices reflecting the ambiance.
Conclusion
A beautiful spot for a stylish break in the greenery. Even though we weren’t too fond of the coffee, a visit is well worth it just for the atmosphere and the exceptional setting.
Café Gloriette
Location
Above Schönbrunn Palace, offering a wide view over the city. Easily accessible on foot through the park, and the short climb is definitely worth it.
Our Impression
We visited the café after our tour of Schönbrunn Palace and enjoyed coffee and cake, both of which were really good. The location is special: great views and a wonderful atmosphere. The staff was friendly, and the service was attentive.
Value for Money
Solid, not cheap, but fair for the location and ambiance.
Conclusion
A lovely café for a relaxing break with a view. Perfect for ending your walk through the palace gardens, with great coffee and delicious cake in a laid-back setting.
Nook Cafe
Location
In a quiet corner of the 6th district, slightly off the beaten path, yet still central and easily accessible.
Our Impression
A small, stylish café with a cozy vibe. We had coffee, matcha, and a croissant, all of which were delicious. The décor is simple, modern, and inviting. Ideal for a relaxed start to the day or a quick break in between activities.
Value for Money
Good, fair for the quality, style, and location.
Conclusion
Nook Café is a great spot for coffee or matcha lovers. Perfect for a small break away from the usual tourist cafés.
Chasen Brew — Specialty Matcha & Coffee
Location
In the 7th district, centrally located yet pleasantly quiet.
Our Impression
Minimalistic, modern, and fully focused on matcha and coffee. We ordered an iced matcha. The place is small but stylish. Ideal for matcha enthusiasts or anyone looking for something different from the usual cappuccino.
Value for Money
Good, a bit more expensive than a standard café, but absolutely fair for the quality and preparation.
Conclusion
Perfect for a quick stop with a distinctive taste, clean, modern, and really well done.
Activities in Vienna
Vienna, the charming capital of Austria, is the perfect starting point for your journey through the country. Here, imperial history, vibrant culture, and modern city atmosphere blend seamlessly.
In this section, we will show you the best activities in Vienna, from impressive landmarks and cozy coffeehouses to culinary classics of Austrian cuisine. Whether you’re just on a short city trip or planning to explore Vienna in more detail, this city has something for everyone!
Schönbrunn Palace
Schönbrunn Palace is one of the most significant landmarks in Vienna and an architectural gem with imperial history. The former summer residence of the Habsburgs impresses with its opulent rooms, extensive gardens, and a magnificent view over Vienna. A guided tour of the palace is highly recommended, where you can learn more about the lives of Empress Sisi, Emperor Franz Joseph, and the glorious history of the monarchy.
We had the Classic Pass for €40.00 per person, which allowed us to enjoy an extensive visit. Included in this are:
Grand Tour of the Palace (including audio guide or guided tour)
Access to the Crown Prince’s Garden
Entry to the Maze/Labyrinth
Access to the Orangery Garden (if available – see note below)
Entry to the Gloriette’s Viewing Terrace
The Gloriette itself and the path leading to it are free to access, but the roof is only accessible with a ticket (officially charged, but not always checked).
Location:
In the western part of Vienna, easily reachable by U-Bahn (Schönbrunn station, U4)
Opening hours:
Daily: 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM (slightly adjusted according to season)
Entry:
From approx. €22 per person for the Grand Tour (single price)
Classic Pass: approx. €40 per person (including extended access)
Conclusion:
A must for anyone interested in history, architecture, and imperial Vienna – impressive, diverse, and vast.
Schönbrunn Palace Gardens
In our €40 ticket, access to several paid areas of the extensive Schönbrunn Palace Gardens in Vienna was included. These areas include the historic maze with multiple paths, small play stations, and viewing platforms, as well as the Crown Prince’s Garden and the Orangery Garden.
Unfortunately, we couldn’t visit the Orangery Garden during our visit because the entrance was hard to find. Other visitors also seemed unsure of where exactly the access point was. There was no staff available on-site to ask for directions.
The Gloriette, a neoclassical pavilion on a hill above the palace, is freely accessible. The café inside can also be visited without a ticket. However, the viewing terrace on the roof of the Gloriette is officially a paid area.
The gardens themselves are largely open for exploration and offer various garden sections, fountains, statues, and well-maintained pathways. The ticket grants access to specific areas within the park that are not accessible without a ticket.
The Belvedere Palace
The Belvedere Palace Gardens are among the most impressive baroque gardens in Europe. Nestled between the Upper and Lower Belvedere, the expansive garden offers not only beautifully designed landscapes but also magnificent views of Vienna’s city center.
We took a walk through the grounds on a sunny afternoon.
What to discover:
Baroque garden art with sculptures, fountains, and arbors
Panoramic views of Vienna from the upper palace
Botanical and Alpine Gardens (additional entry fee)
Location:
Prinz-Eugen-Straße 27, 1030 Vienna
Easily accessible by tram D or bus 13A (station “Belvedere”)
Opening Hours:
The palace gardens are open daily, usually from around 6:30 AM to 8:00 PM (hours may vary slightly by season)
Cost: Free
Conclusion:
Anyone visiting Vienna should take time to stroll through the Belvedere Palace Gardens.
Schlumberger Wine Cellars
The Schlumberger Cellar Worlds in Vienna offer an in-depth look into the art of sparkling wine production. As one of the oldest sparkling wine companies in Austria, it provides visitors with an exciting behind-the-scenes experience of traditional bottle fermentation.
We booked the “Classic Tour,” which costs 18.00 EUR per person. It includes:
Admission to the Schlumberger Cellar Worlds
Audioguide for a self-guided tour through the impressive cellars
Tasting of three sparkling wine varieties:
Sparkling Brut
Rosé Brut
Grüner Veltliner Brut
The tour takes you through the historic cellars and ends with a tasting session where you can enjoy the various sparkling wines.
Location:
Heiligenstädter Straße 39, 1190 Vienna, easily accessible by U-Bahn (Spittelau station, U4/U6)
Opening Hours:
Thu-Sat: 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Cost:
Classic Tour: 18.00 EUR per person (including audioguide & tasting)
Additional tickets (e.g., premium tours or private guides) are also available.
Conclusion:
For those interested in the art of sparkling wine production and seeking a bubbly experience, the Classic Tour at the Schlumberger Cellar Worlds is an excellent choice, both informative and enjoyable.
City Winery and Heuriger Johannes Müller
We visited Heuriger Johannes Müller in the 19th district to taste some wines and, of course, enjoy some great food. The location is lovely: a quiet, green courtyard right in the middle of the vineyards. The atmosphere is laid-back, and the staff is incredibly friendly.
Location:
Probusgasse 1, 1190 Vienna
Tram D to “Beethovengang”
Opening Hours:
Fri–Sun from 16:00 (Check for seasonal opening times)
Conclusion:
Great location, excellent wines, friendly staff, perfect for a relaxing evening in Vienna.
Buschenschank Wanderer at the Foot of Nussberg
We visited the Buschenschank Wanderer at the foot of Nussberg to try various wines. The location is cozy: a quiet, green spot surrounded by vineyards, with a relaxed atmosphere.
We also enjoyed hearty classics like cheese and crispy farmer’s bread.
Location:
Am Nussberg 1, 1190 Vienna
By car or tram D to “Beethovengang”
Opening Hours:
Fri–Sun (depending on the season, check current opening times)
Conclusion:
A cozy location, great wine, perfect for a relaxed and casual evening with friends and wine.
Esse Wine Estate & Buschenschank
Der Esse Wine Estate & Buschenschank offers a pleasant, stylish atmosphere for those who appreciate good wine and a cozy environment. The courtyard, surrounded by grapevines, invites you to relax, while the wines made from their own vineyards are perfect for tasting.
For a snack, there’s a selection of homemade specialties.
Location:
Wienerwaldstraße 13, 1190 Vienna
Opening hours:
Sat–Sun from 12:00 PM
Conclusion:
Excellent wine, stylish atmosphere, the perfect place for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.
Winery Heuriger Alter Bach-Hengl
We visited the Alter Bach-Hengl Winery-Heuriger to sample various wines and, of course, enjoy a delicious snack. The location is beautiful: a peaceful, green courtyard surrounded by vineyards, perfect for relaxation. The staff is very friendly and ensures that you feel immediately welcome.
The wines, particularly the fresh Grüner Veltliner and the fruity red wine, were especially enjoyable. For the snack, there was a selection of homemade specialties, there’s also plenty for vegetarians to choose from.
Location:
Alter Bach 3, 1190 Vienna
Easily accessible by tram line D or bus 39A
Opening hours:
Fri–Sun from 3:00 PM (depending on the season, check current opening times)
Conclusion:
A cozy spot with great wines and warm service, perfect for a relaxed evening in the heart of Vienna’s vineyards.
Mayer am Pfarrplatz - Heuriger -Beethovenhaus - Weingut
We visited the Weingut Heuriger Alter Bach-Hengl to try a selection of wines. The location is beautiful, with a quiet, green courtyard that is perfect for relaxing. The staff is very friendly and makes you feel immediately welcome.
We also visited Mayer am Pfarrplatz to try the wine list there, and it was definitely worth it. We particularly liked the Grüner Veltliner, which was dry and refreshing. The Zweigelt was also very pleasant, fruity but not too sweet. The wines come from their own vineyard and offer an authentic, high-quality selection. In the relaxed atmosphere, the wine tastes even better.
Location:
Alter Bach 3, 1190 Vienna
Easily accessible by tram line D or bus 39A
Opening hours:
Mon–Sun from 3:00 PM (depending on the season, check current opening times)
Conclusion:
A cozy place with great wines and friendly service, ideal for a relaxing evening in the midst of the Vienna vineyards.
Prater
The Prater is mainly known for its amusement park, which has been attracting visitors for over 250 years. The Giant Ferris Wheel in Vienna is an iconic landmark and offers a fantastic view of the city. In addition to the Ferris wheel, there is a wide range of other attractions, from classic carousels and roller coasters to the famous “chain swings.”
Location:
Prater, 1020 Vienna
Accessible by U-Bahn line U1 (station “Praterstern”) or tram lines 0 and 5.
Conclusion:
Although the Prater offers a lot of fun, it is not necessarily a must-see if you’re in Vienna. If you’re less interested in amusement rides, you’ll definitely find many other exciting things to explore in the city.
Kunsthistorisches Museum Wien
At the Kunsthistorisches Museum, impressive architecture meets great names like Bruegel, Rubens, and Velázquez. The exhibition is vast but well-organized. It’s easy to navigate, even without prior art knowledge. Especially nice: the café under the dome. However, entry is only possible with a museum ticket.
Location:
Maria-Theresien-Platz, 1010 Vienna
Accessible by U2 (Museumsquartier) or U3 (Volkstheater)
Opening hours:
Daily 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Thursdays until 9:00 PM)
Conclusion:
A rewarding visit even for non-art lovers, thanks to the architecture, the exhibits, and the lovely café inside.
Cafe Central
Café Central is not just a classic café, but a true landmark.
Having already mentioned Café Central under “Dining in Vienna,” I would like to highlight it again here. For me, it’s not just a café, but a real attraction that you should experience in Vienna.
The historic hall with its high ceilings, marble columns, and chandeliers is impressive – you almost feel like you’re in another era.
The café has a long history and was once a meeting place for personalities such as Freud, Trotsky, and Zweig. Today, it’s especially popular with tourists – it’s often crowded, but you can see why.
Location:
Herrengasse 14, 1010 Vienna
U-Bahn: U3 (Herrengasse)
Opening hours:
Daily from 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM (Sundays from 10:00 AM)
Conclusion:
Even if you’re just looking for a coffee, Café Central is definitely worth a visit because of its history and atmosphere. More than just a coffeehouse, it’s a piece of Viennese culture.
Brasserie Palmenhaus Wien
I have already introduced the Brasserie Palmenhaus in Vienna under “Dining in Vienna,” but I would also like to mention it under “Activities in Vienna” because, for me, it’s more than just a restaurant. The Palmenhaus not only offers an excellent selection of dishes but also a unique atmosphere: The building is a beautiful, historic glass structure with a fantastic view of the Burggarten. It’s especially lovely to sit on the terrace and enjoy the ambiance when the weather is nice.
Location:
Burggarten, 1010 Vienna
U-Bahn: U3 (Herrengasse)
Opening hours:
Monday – Friday: 9:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Saturday – Sunday: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Conclusion:
An ideal spot for a relaxing meal or a drink in a unique setting, the Brasserie Palmenhaus is definitely one of the special places in Vienna that should be experienced.
Conclusion on Vienna
Our time in Vienna was unforgettable! In just four days, we saw and experienced an incredible amount, from the magnificent Schönbrunn Palace to the Schlumberger Wine Cellars, where we learned more about the Vienna sparkling wine culture, to the charming Café Central. Despite the short time, we made the most of it, visiting the key attractions and soaking in the unique Viennese atmosphere. Those four days gave us a fantastic overview of Vienna.