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I once fell for Vienna – and I’ve loved visiting ever since.
That’s because it’s easy to be captivated by Vienna’s allure. Frequently named the Best Place to Live, the Austrian capital boasts many virtues. It’s clean and safe and offers an effortless navigation experience through its efficient public transportation system. Vienna is a cultural treasure trove featuring diverse activities, exceptional dining, and a rich history that remains vividly present.
Having lived in Vienna, I can vouch for its irresistible charm. Now, I find myself returning whenever I get the chance. The capital city is brimming with activities and sights. Though a weekend might seem short, careful planning allows you to savor some of Vienna’s finest offerings in just two days.
Where to Stay in Vienna
To make the most of your visit, I recommend staying in Vienna’s First District, the city’s beating heart. You’ll be close to many of Vienna’s historical attractions, and others are a quick tram or subway ride away.
Two of my favorite hotels in the First District are the lovely Leo Grande Hotel Vienna and the classy Hotel Topazz Lamee. Both are near St. Stephen’s Cathedral, the city’s iconic cathedral.
Named after Emperor Leopold I, The Leo Grand is a stunning 5-star hotel that features the latest modern luxuries while embracing the city’s rich history.
Planning a last-minute trip to Austria?
Top Experiences and Tours in Austria:
- See the sights with a tour of Hallstatt and Alps Day Trip from Vienna With Skywalk
- See a concert with Vienna: Vivaldi’s Four Seasons Concert in Karlskirche
- Explore more with a Vienna Go City Pass
Where to stay in Austria:
- Find accommodation with Booking.com
- Get a rail pass through Rail Europe
- Find Bus, Train, and Flight tickets with one search through Omio
Whimsical design with soft colors creates a delightful atmosphere, along with modern touches like automated blinds that open to reveal nice city views. (I could see St. Stephens from my window.)
Hotel Topazz Lamee is another luxury retreat with views of St. Stephen’s. Its modern décor blends with timeless classic style for a comfortable stay in the city.
Your Vienna Guide: ivie
Before you start exploring, download ivie, Vienna’s free digital app. This digital City Guide is a valuable tool during your visit and provides an audio tour of Vienna’s key attractions. It also offers handy visitor advice, directing you to amenities like restrooms, city bikes, and drinking fountains.
It seamlessly interfaces with the Vienna City Card, a worthwhile investment for your trip. The Vienna City Card offers perks such as unlimited access to public transport (renowned for its efficiency and user-friendliness) and discounts at museums and attractions. Several options are available, including one with airport transfers.
Exploring Vienna’s Royal Past
Vienna was once the seat of the mighty Habsburg Empire, and remnants of that royal past can be seen throughout the city.
From your hotel in the First District, walk to the Hofburg Palace, the former principal imperial palace of the Habsburg dynasty. It’s home to the famous Spanish Riding School and Lipizzaner stallions.
You can tour Hofburg Palace and the Sisi Museum, dedicated to Austria’s beloved Empress Sisi. Other parts of Hofburg are used as offices for the Austrian president.
From there, head to Schönbrunn Palace, an exquisite Baroque palace that once served as the summer retreat for the Habsburg dynasty. Tour the palace and gardens, or visit the Schönbrunn Zoo, one of the world’s oldest zoological gardens.
If you’re short on time, stroll through the palace gardens, which are accessible free of charge. During the holiday season, Schönbrunn Palace has a charming Christmas market.
For art lovers, a visit to Belvedere Palace is a must. It houses the Gustav Klimt exhibit, including his iconic masterpiece, “The Kiss.”
Located in the third district, Belvedere Palace boasts its enchanting gardens and once served as Prince Eugene of Savoy’s summer residence.
Viennese Culture
They say that coffeehouses are Vienna’s living rooms, and it’s true. Spending a few hours at a coffeehouse relaxing with a newspaper, coffee, and pastry is a true Viennese pastime.
Stop by one of the city’s historic coffeehouses for a Wiener Melange and a piece of torte or strudel. Some of my favorites are Café Leopold, Café Landtmann, Kleines Cafe (if the weather is nice), and Café Diglas, but there are many more to choose from.
Vienna is the City of Music, so it’s only fitting to end your visit with a concert to hear one of its many great composers. Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Franz Schubert, Joseph Haydn, Johann Strauss II, and Ludwig van Beethoven are just a few who once called it home. Vienna has a busy schedule of concerts and musical events throughout the city. You might even want to see an opera at the famous Vienna Opera House.
Vienna is bound to enchant you no matter what you choose to do. While two days in Vienna isn’t long, it will give you enough time to know you want to return for more.
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