So you checked in at the hotel, cursed gently for forgetting the travel adapter, and debated the morality of packing up the free shampoo on the first day. What to do now?
- What should you do? (a list of authentic Viennese experiences)
- What should you see? (my favourite sights)
- What can you do in a day? (one-day itinerary suggestions)
- What can you do on a budget? (free activities and sights)
- Where can I get the best city views? (no explanation required)
- What events do you recommend? (a list of annual events and festivals by month, plus current tips)
- What can I do with the kids? (the good news is we have a zoo)
- How can I see a classical concert? (you are spoiled for choice)
Sightseeing
You can enjoy your visit simply by wandering around and soaking up the historical atmosphere.
For some proper sightseeing, see this detailed guide to the city’s sights, with maps, photos, insider tips, musician trails, and more.
Events
A capital city and top tourist destination can’t survive on nice buildings alone. So there’s no shortage of entertainment to keep locals and visitors alike entertained.
For a look at the more prominent festivals and other events for visitors in the annual Viennese calendar, browse this monthly event overview.
Experiences
There’s a lot to be said for simply indulging in a few authentic local experiences, such as coffee and cake, open-air markets, and sausages. And for a fun alternative to walking around history, take the 5D, virtual reality equivalent at the Time Travel Tour.
Christmas, New Year, Easter
There is something particularly special about Vienna during Christmas (my favourite period, here) and New Year.
It all begins in late November with the appearance of the Christmas lights, best seen through the steam rising from a mulled wine or a bag of freshly-roasted chestnuts. Yeah, I’m a sucker for tradition.
Here’s an overview of advent activities, as well as detailed reviews of the Christmas markets. Then enjoy the New Year festivities and the New Year markets.
Talking of markets, that’s also a big theme of the Viennese Easter.
Stage and screen
The event listings include various music, film, and other festivals. But outside of those, Vienna has three major opera houses, numerous classical music venues, as well as several English-speaking theatres and cinemas.
And, if you do run out of things to do, you can always just watch the football down the pub or in the stadium.
Day trips
Finally, if you’ve exhausted the entertainment potential of Vienna (or simply want a change of scene), various other cities, sights, and experiences are within an easy day trip by car, bus, train, or boat.