The short version: Three days is ideal for Vienna. Day one for the imperial old town and a coffeehouse, day two for Schonbrunn and the Naschmarkt, day three for art and the Prater. Here is the perfect plan.
Day 1: Imperial old town
Explore the Hofburg and St Stephen’s Cathedral, stroll the Graben, and see the Bruegels at the Kunsthistorisches Museum. Take cake in a grand cafe like Cafe Central, then schnitzel at Figlmuller.
Day 2: Schonbrunn and the Naschmarkt
Beat the crowds with a Schonbrunn Palace tour, then graze the Naschmarkt on a food tour. See Klimt’s Kiss at the Belvedere and end with a Mozart and Strauss concert.
Day 3: Art, parks and the Prater
Wander the MuseumsQuartier, see the modern gems at the Albertina, admire the Hundertwasserhaus, and ride the Giant Ferris Wheel at the Prater.
Got a 4th day?
Cruise the vineyards and abbeys of the Wachau Valley on the Danube.
Frequently asked questions
Is 3 days enough for Vienna?
Yes. Three days covers the imperial old town, Schonbrunn Palace, the great museums and a coffeehouse or concert at a relaxed pace.
Is Vienna walkable?
The historic centre is compact and walkable, and Vienna’s trams and U-Bahn are superb for reaching Schonbrunn, the Belvedere and the Prater.
What is the best time to visit Vienna?
April to June and September to October are ideal. December is magical for Christmas markets, though cold and busy.
Is Vienna expensive?
Vienna is mid-priced for a Western European capital. Coffeehouses, concerts and museums can add up, but public transport and many sights are good value.
See where to eat, stay and wander in the full Vienna guide.
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