Vienna Itinerary: How To Spend 3 Perfect Days In Vienna

Vienna is such a magical city. I had the opportunity to visit Vienna twice already and it never gets old! If you’re planning a trip to Vienna, this is the only Vienna itinerary you’ll ever need. Here you’ll find everything from where to stay, where to eat, what tours are worth it, and much more. So, grab a cup of coffee (or a glass of wine), and let’s get started!

Best Places to Stay in Vienna

Vienna has no shortage of places to stay, whether you’re searching for hotels or an Airbnb. Your final choice will depend on your budget and how close you want to be to major attractions. While the city’s historic center—known as the Innere Stadt—puts you right in the middle of everything, it’s worth noting that Vienna is generally very walkable. Even if you opt for a neighborhood slightly beyond the center, most must-see sights remain within a 20-minute trip by foot or public transport.

Because Vienna is popular year-round—especially during peak travel seasons—try to lock in your hotel or Airbnb as early as possible. Availability can become limited the closer you get to high-demand periods, and rates often climb the longer you wait.

Innere Stadt

This is the perfect location to be if it’s your first time in Vienna. Here you’ll find many iconic landmarks, so expect a bustling atmosphere filled with restaurants, shops, and historical buildings.

During my trip, I stayed here with my family in a 2-bedroom Airbnb just a short stroll from the Opera house.

Why Stay Here

• Central Access: You can walk to many of Vienna’s main attractions, such as St. Stephen’s Cathedral and the State Opera.
• Vibrant Scene: There’s always something happening—especially around major holidays—which makes for an energetic ambiance.

Keep in Mind

• Price Tag: The convenience and proximity to top sights mean it is more expensive.
• Crowds: It tends to get quite busy, particularly when tourism peaks.

Recommended Hotels

• Rosewood: A luxury hotel housed in a beautifully restored, historic 19th-century building. It has exceptional reviews and also features a spa and fitness center.
• Mercure Vienna First: A boutique hotel that offers a buffet breakfast, located just blocks away from the Donau canal.
• König von Ungarn: Located right next to the Mozarthaus, this hotel features a bar/lounge, and a buffet breakfast available daily.

Neubau

Neubau offers hip cafés, small boutiques, and a cool artsy vibe. It’s not directly next to every major attraction, but Vienna’s efficient public transit or an easy walk will still get you to the city’s highlights.

Why Stay Here

• Artsy Atmosphere: Perfect for anyone who enjoys design, art galleries, and inventive café culture.
• Potential Savings: Boutique accommodation here can be a bit friendlier on the wallet.

Keep in Mind

• Slight Distance: You’ll be a bit further from places like St. Stephen’s Cathedral, but public transportation makes it easy to travel around.
• Slower Pace: If you’re looking for non-stop, touristy energy, Neubau can feel more laid-back—though some travelers see that as a bonus.

Recommended Hotels

• Max Brown Hotel: A beautifully designed artsy hotel set right in the heart of the city’s creative center and just a few minutes away from all the highlights.
• Boutique Hotel Altstadt Vienna: If you’re an art lover, then this small hotel is perfect for you, as it houses a collection of contemporary art by Warhol, Brigitte Kowanz, and others.

Wieden

Wieden offers a balance between local living and city-center convenience. You’ll find little shops, one-of-a-kind cafés, and a less “touristy” ambiance. It’s also close to Vienna’s Naschmarkt and the Belvedere area.

Why Stay Here

• Be a local: Get a sense of everyday Viennese life, from neighborhood eateries to independent stores.
• Budget Options: A number of reasonably priced lodgings are available.

Keep in Mind

• Not Ultra-Central: You’ll likely need public transport or a 20–30-minute walk to reach the most famous spots.

Recommended Hotels

• Hotel Kaiserhof Wien: This 4-star eco-certified hotel also features a bar/lounge, a fitness center, and a sauna. It is within a 15-minute walk from Vienna State Opera and Belvedere.
• Hotel Erzherzog Rainer: A 4-start hotel with 100 years of history. Close to public transportation. Hofburg Imperial Palace and Vienna Christmas Market are just a 5-minute drive away.
• Grätzlhotel Belvedere: This is more like a boutique hotel that offers a unique experience. They offer suites that include a kitchenette and a dining area. You can also borrow bicycles free of charge. The best part? It is budget-friendly.

Essential Tips for a Smooth Trip to Vienna

Here are some things I wish I had known before traveling to Vienna–these would’ve made my experience so much better!

Book Your Tickets in Advance

Schönbrunn Palace, the Hofburg complex, and the Spanish Riding School attract big crowds, especially during peak travel seasons. It’s a smart move to book your tickets online in advance. A bit of pre-planning can save you hours of waiting around and give you more time to actually enjoy the sights.

Make Restaurant Reservations in Advance

It’s worth noting that making a reservation is often part of the dining culture in Vienna. While you can walk in and find a table, many restaurants prefer or even expect reservations, especially during peak hours. If you want to be certain you’ll get a spot at a popular place booking online in advance is a smart move.

Sundays Are Quiet

Many shops close for the day, and the city slows down. It’s not necessarily a bad thing; it just means you’ll want to plan your shopping trips for other days of the week.

Take Time for Café Culture

Don’t be surprised if your waiter doesn’t rush to bring you the bill, lingering is all part of the experience. Feel free to spend an hour (or more) sipping a mélange, indulging in a slice of Sachertorte, and soaking in the ambiance.

Consider a Vienna City Card

The Vienna City Card is a solid investment if you plan on hitting multiple attractions—and frequently hopping on trams, buses, or the U-Bahn. It typically offers free or discounted entry to various attractions and covers unlimited public transport. However, Vienna is very walkable; if you only stay a few days, you might not need it.

Tours You’ll Want to Book

Vivaldi’s Four Seasons Concert in Karlskirche: Experience a wonderful classical concert at one of Vienna’s most iconic and beautiful churches. If you’re not attending an Opera performance at the Wiener Staatsoper, this is the next best thing (and pretty affordable too, as tickets are around $40).

Guided Walking Tour of City Center Highlights: Enjoy a guided walking tour of central Vienna and see the city’s most popular highlights.

Light of Creation Votive Church Immersive Light Show: A 30-minute immersive light show in Vienna’s Votive Church. It offers a spectacular light and sound experience using the latest technology.

Belvedere Palace Skip-the-Line Tickets + Guided Tour: Beat the crowds and learn everything you need to know about Vienna’s rich art history.

Spanish Riding School Guided Tour: On an exclusive 55-minute behind-the-scenes tour, visit the Winter Riding School, a gem of Baroque architecture, the Summer Riding School which houses the world’s largest oval horse walker and the stables in the Stallburg.

Schönbrunn Palace & Gardens Skip-the-Line Tour: Skip long entrance lines and discover the Schönbrunn Palace and its beautiful gardens.

Skip-the-Line Sisi Museum, Hofburg and Gardens Tour: No lines, no hassle as you explore the Sisi Museum, Imperial Apartments, courtyards, and gardens of the Hofburg Imperial Palace Complex.

Detailed 3-Day Vienna Itinerary

This 3-day Vienna itinerary covers the city’s must-see attractions, restaurant recommendations, hidden gems, and helpful insider tips—everything you need to ensure your stay is truly magical. I have also created a map below so you can easily view where all must-see spots are.

Day 1: Historical Vienna

Today’s Schedule

• St. Stephen’s Cathedral
• Brunch at Cafe Central
• Hofburg Palace & Sisi Museum
• Stroll around Opernviertel
• Concert or Opera Performance
• Dinner at Plachutta Wollzeile

Start your day at St. Stephen’s Cathedral, Vienna’s iconic Gothic masterpiece. Trust me, seeing it in person feels entirely different from those photos you’ve come across. The intricate details on the facade are absolutely stunning, and if you’re up for a bit of exercise, climbing the tower rewards you with a panoramic view over the city’s rooftops.

After taking in the Cathedral, head to Cafe Central, one of the most beautiful cafes in Vienna. You’ll want to make a reservation beforehand. We waited for over half an hour in the rain to eat at this restaurant–and it was worth it! They have the best pastries, my favorite was the “Nuss Kuss”. Cafe Central also offers traditional Wienese food, so you can enjoy a delicious Schnitzel.

Next, make your way to the Hofburg Palace and the Sisi Museum. This former imperial residence is massive, so you’ll want to take your time exploring. The Sisi Museum dives into the life of Empress Elisabeth (affectionately known as Sisi). It is important to book your tickets in advance. I always recommend purchasing skip-the-line tickets, to save time and make your trip more effortless.

For a laid-back afternoon, take a stroll around the Opernviertel, the area near the Vienna State Opera. This neighborhood is full of upscale shops, cute cafés, and gorgeous architecture. It’s great for people-watching and snapping a few Instagram-worthy pics. You might even spot street musicians performing.

In the evening, immerse yourself in Vienna’s musical heritage by catching a concert or opera performance at the Wiener Staatsoper. Tickets do sell out pretty fast and tend to be expensive. Although, you might get lucky and be able to get standing tickets at the last minute if you hang outside before a concert.

However, there’s always the option to attend a classical music concert at places like Karlskirche or St. Peter’s Church.

Finish the day with dinner at Plachutta Wollzeile, a restaurant famous for its Viennese classics. Try the Tafelspitz (boiled beef) if you want an authentic taste of Austrian cuisine—it’s one of their signature dishes.

Day 2: Art & Local Markets

Today’s itinerary

• Belvedere Palace
• Naschmarkt
• MuseumsQuartier (MQ)
• Explore Neubau
• Try Local Wine & Heuriger

Spend your morning at Belvedere Palace, where you’ll find Gustav Klimt’s masterpiece, “The Kiss.” There’s something magical about seeing the vibrant gold hues up close. The palace grounds themselves are equally stunning, so take time to wander the gardens.

From there, head to the Naschmarkt for lunch. This bustling market is a foodie’s paradise, brimming with local specialties and international flavors. Whether you’re craving falafel, fresh oysters, or a hearty Austrian sausage, you’ll find something that speaks to your taste buds. It’s also a fun place to sample different treats—just follow your nose and nibble your way through the stalls.

After lunch, spend the afternoon in the MuseumsQuartier, one of the largest cultural complexes in the world. If you’re an art lover, you can’t miss the Leopold Museum with its impressive collection of Egon Schiele paintings. If modern art is more your thing, the MUMOK will give you a taste of contemporary art.

Later on, take a stroll through Neubau. This neighborhood has a hip, slightly offbeat feel, thanks to its indie boutiques and quirky art galleries. It’s a breath of fresh air if you’re looking to experience a different side of Vienna. Swing by a local café if you’re in need of a late-afternoon pick-me-up (it’s Vienna, after all—coffee is practically a way of life there).

As evening falls, consider checking out a traditional wine tavern (Heuriger) on the outskirts of town. You’ll find newly pressed wines and simple dishes that pair perfectly with a chill ambiance.

Finally, cap off the day with dinner at a cozy restaurant serving up hearty Austrian classics like Wiener Schnitzel or goulash. It’s the perfect finish to a day packed with art, culture, and seriously good eats.

Day 3: Schönbrunn Palace & Prater Park

Today’s Itinerary

• Schönbrunn Palace
• Lunch at Palmenhaus
• Giant Ferris Wheel at the Prater Park
• Stroll along the Danube

Kick off your final day with an early trip to Schönbrunn Palace—trust me, it’s well worth setting the alarm. You’ll have more time to take in the lavish state rooms before the crowds roll in, and the gardens are especially beautiful in the morning light. If you’re traveling with kids, consider popping into the Tiergarten Schönbrunn, one of the oldest zoos in the world.

Make your way back to the city center for lunch at the Palmenhaus. This gorgeous greenhouse-turned-restaurant has such a different vibe—you’re practically dining among palm trees. Make sure to make a reservation beforehand, as it tends to be busy.

Use the afternoon to tie up any loose ends on your Vienna bucket list. Maybe that means grabbing souvenirs, indulging in a final slice of Sachertorte, or taking a spin on the Giant Ferris Wheel at the Prater for one last panoramic view. If you’ve got extra time, stroll along the Danube or the Ringstrasse.

In the evening, settle in for dinner at a cozy local spot where you can enjoy the classics you might’ve missed or just revisit your new favorites.

3-Day Vienna Itinerary at Glance

Day 1: St. Stephen’s Cathedral, brunch at Cafe Central, Hofburg Palace & Sisi Museum, stroll around Opernviertel, dinner at Plachutta Wollzeile, concert or opera performance.

Day 2: Belvedere Palace, Naschmarkt, MuseumsQuartier (MQ), explore Neubau, try local wine & heuriger.

Day 3: Schönbrunn Palace, lunch at Palmenhaus, giant Ferris wheel at the Prater, stroll along the Danube.

Additional Places to Add to Your Vienna Itinerary

There are plenty of things to do in Vienna! If you decide to extend your trip, then these are the activities I recommend adding to your Vienna itinerary.

Spanish Riding School—Witness centuries-old equestrian tradition come to life at Vienna’s iconic Spanish Riding School, a UNESCO-recognized institution.

Morthaus Vienna—Step into the world of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart at Mozarthaus Vienna, the only surviving apartment where the musical genius lived and composed.

Kunsthistorische Museum (Art History Museum)—A majestic building filled to the brim with some of the world’s most incredible art. We’re talking about works by the likes of Raphael, Caravaggio, and Bruegel. Insider’s tip: Make a reservation at their Cafe—it is so beautiful!

Staying Longer? Day Trips From Vienna

Got some extra time to spare in Vienna? Lucky you! The city is perfectly situated for exploring all sorts of scenic and cultural hotspots.

Wachau Valley, Austria

Head about an hour northwest of Vienna and you’ll stumble upon the enchanting Wachau Valley—a UNESCO World Heritage site full of rolling vineyards, medieval towns, and Danube River views.

Recommended tour

Wachau, Melk, Hallstatt, & Salzburg with a Boat Trip—Enjoy beautiful landscapes, fascinating history, and a relaxing boat ride in Hallstatt. Book now for the ultimate Austria adventure.

Bratislava, Slovakia

If you’re itching to check off another country, Bratislava is just an hour away by train or bus, making Slovakia’s capital an easy (and budget-friendly) day trip.

Recommended tours

Bratislava Tour by Bus and by Boat—Experience a scenic tour by bus from Vienna to Bratislava and stroll through the old town. Return to Vienna past the picturesque river landscapes aboard the Twin City Liner boat.

Budapest & Bratislava Guided One-Day Tour—Embark on a full-day tour that bridges the capitals of Bratislava and Budapest.

Salzburg, Austria

Salzburg is a bit farther—around 2.5 to 3 hours by train—but trust me, it’s worth it. Known for Mozart (this is his birthplace, after all) and “The Sound of Music,” the city greets you with baroque architecture, a backdrop of Alpine peaks, and plenty of spots to grab a cold beer.

Halstaat, Austria

Hallstatt is about three hours from Vienna. Picture a sparkling lake, mountains hugging the horizon, and pastel houses arranged like a painting.

Recommended tours

Hallstatt & Alpine Peaks Day Trip with Skywalk Lift—Marvel at mountain peaks, serene lakes, small villages, and magnificent alpine scenery on a day trip from Vienna to Hallstatt. Enjoy breathtaking views over the town from the incredible Skywalk.

Hallstatt Guided Day Tour—Embark on a guided tour from Vienna to Austria’s lake region and experience the breathtaking Alpine town of Hallstatt.

Vienna Frequently Asked Questions

Is Vienna safe for solo travelers?

Vienna frequently ranks as one of the world’s safest cities, making it a great choice for solo travelers.

How to get to Vienna?

There are several ways to reach Vienna. If you’re flying from a different country, fly to the Vienna International Airport (VIE), which is well-connected to the city center by train (S-Bahn), the City Airport Train (CAT), and buses.

If you’re already in Europe, taking a train into Wien Hauptbahnhof (Vienna’s main station) is an efficient option. Bus services also link Vienna to many neighboring countries, which can sometimes be more budget-friendly.

If you prefer to drive, the motorway network leads directly into the city.

Is Vienna expensive?

Vienna can be pricier than some other European cities, especially when it comes to dining and accommodations in the city center. However, there are plenty of ways to keep costs low—like buying a public transport pass instead of relying on taxis and eating street food from local markets.

Is Vienna worth visiting?

Absolutely. Vienna’s rich history, stunning architecture, and world-renowned music scene combine to create a unique travel experience.

Is the Vienna City Pass worth it?

It depends on how much sightseeing you plan on doing. The pass provides free or discounted admission to a range of attractions, along with access to public transport. If you want to visit several attractions in a short span, the savings can really add up. But if you prefer a slower pace, you might be better off buying individual tickets.

When is the best time to visit Vienna?

Vienna is lovely year-round, but your ideal timing depends on what you’re after. If you love holiday vibes, the Christmas markets in late November and December are magical. Spring and fall typically offer better weather and fewer crowds. Summer is perfect for outdoor events.

Related: The Best 5-Day Christmas Vienna Itinerary

How many days should I spend in Vienna?

Three to four days will give you a good taste of Vienna’s major attractions. We stayed for 6 days and ran out of things to do. But if you stay for longer than 3 days, you can take a day trip to a city nearby.