Vienna Austria 3 Day Itinerary

3 Days in Vienna: A Waltz Through History

This itinerary focuses on Vienna’s rich history and culture, with a touch of local Viennese charm.

Day 1: Imperial Majesty & Musical Legacy

  • Morning: Begin your journey at the heart of the Habsburg Empire - the Hofburg Palace. Explore the Imperial Apartments, the Silver Collection, and the Treasury, which houses the Crown Jewels.
  • Afternoon: Immerse yourself in the world of music with a visit to the Haus der Musik (House of Music). This museum lets you explore the history of music in Vienna through interactive exhibits and even conduct your own Viennese orchestra!

Day 2: Art & Architecture

  • Morning: Visit the Vienna Secession, a stunning example of Viennese Modernism. Admire the iconic golden dome and explore the art inside.
  • Afternoon: Discover the captivating world of Gustav Klimt at the Belvedere Palace. Explore his masterpieces like “The Kiss” and “Judith,” and learn about the artistic movement he helped spearhead.

Day 3: Imperial Gardens & Viennese Treats

  • Morning: Stroll through the lush Schönbrunn Palace Gardens, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Marvel at the beauty of the Schönbrunn Palace itself, then explore the maze, the Gloriette, and the zoo (Tiergarten).

Things to know:

  • Vienna Pass: Consider purchasing a Vienna Pass for free entry to many museums and attractions.

  • Currency: The currency in Austria is the Euro (€).

  • Language: While German is the official language, English is widely spoken in tourist areas.

  • Public Transportation: Vienna has an excellent public transportation system (U-Bahn, trams, buses) which is efficient and easy to use.

Day 1: A Taste of the Past

  • Morning: Explore the Hofburg Palace, including:

    • Imperial Apartments: Discover the opulent living spaces of the Habsburg emperors, a glimpse into their lavish lifestyle.
    • Hofburg Palace Treasury: Witness the historical splendor of the Imperial regalia and treasures.
    • Silver Collection: Be amazed by the intricate details of the silverware collection used by the Austrian imperial family.

  • Afternoon: Immerse yourself in the world of art and history:

    • Museum & Activities:
      • Hofburg Palace (already included in your itinerary)
      • The Belvedere Palace: Explore this Baroque palace housing a stunning collection of Austrian art, from the medieval period to the present day.

  • Evening: Enjoy a traditional Viennese dinner at one of these charming restaurants:

    • Figlmüller: For an authentic schnitzel experience.
    • Café Central: A historic café with a grand ambiance, perfect for coffee and cake.

Day 2: Immerse in Art & Nature

  • Morning: Explore the architectural beauty of the Belvedere Palace, admiring its opulent baroque architecture and gardens.
  • Evening: Central Restaurant & Bar offers a fantastic dinner experience with breathtaking views of Vienna’s cityscape.

Day 3: A Day for Music & History

  • Morning: Visit the Spanish Riding School in Vienna to see the Lippizanner stallions practice their elegant movements in a stunning Baroque setting.

  • Afternoon:

    • U-Bahn (Vienna’s subway system): Purchase a single day ticket (€8) for the U-Bahn and learn how to navigate it efficiently.

  • Things to know:

Vienna Public Transportation:

  • Vienna has a modern and extensive public transportation system, which is the best way to get around.

  • The U-Bahn (subway), U-Bahn lines (U1, U2, etc.), and bus lines run frequently and efficiently.

  • Currency & Payment:

  • Euro (€): Austria uses the Euro (€) as its currency.

  • Public Transport Tickets: Vienna’s public transportation system operates on a zone system. The Vienna Pass covers all zones within Vienna, making it a convenient option for exploring the city.

Other things to consider:

  • Currency: You can use Euros (€) in most places in Vienna.

  • Food & Drinks:

    • Vienna Pass: This pass also includes access to public transportation, so no need for separate tickets!

  • Accommodation:

Stay at:

  • Hotel Sacher Wien: For a luxurious stay and the chance to experience their famous Sachertorte (chocolate cake) in its birthplace.
  • Public Transport: Vienna’s public transportation system is efficient and well-connected, with options for public transport passes, tickets for individual rides are available through the Vienna Pass or can be purchased at stations, ticket machines, and online.

Food & Drinks:

  • Transportation: The Vienna Public Transport Card, a key card that you can use to purchase day tickets for public transportation.
  • Other tips:
    • Learn some basic German phrases: It will make navigating the city easier.
    • Try the Sachertorte: A must-do for any visitor to Vienna.

Day 1: Food & Drink Recommendations:

  • Traditional Austrian Cuisine: For lunch, indulge in a Wiener Schnitzel at Figlmüller (a renowned restaurant for this dish) or enjoy a casual meal at one of the numerous “Beisl” (traditional Viennese pubs).
  • Dinner:
    • Enjoy the culinary scene: Sample traditional dishes like Tafelspitz (boiled beef with horseradish sauce) and Apfelstrudel.

Food & Drink in Vienna:

  • Public Transportation: The Vienna Public Transport Card offers unlimited travel on all public transportation, including buses, trams, and the U-Bahn within the city.
  • Vienna’s Musical Heritage:
    • Try a “Sachertorte” at a café: A popular treat for tourists and locals alike.

Things to do:

  • Visit the Hofburg Palace: A symbol of the Habsburg dynasty, the Hofburg is a historical masterpiece with museums showcasing their imperial legacy.
  • Explore the Schönbrunn Palace Gardens: Enjoy the lush greenery, fountains, and the impressive Schönbrunn Palace itself.
  • Vienna’s public transport system

Day 3: The “Vienna Card” Advantage:

  • Free Entry: The Vienna Pass includes free entry to all museums within the city, allowing you to experience the full breadth of Vienna’s art and culture scene.

  • Museum & Public Transport: Enjoy a Vienna Pass, allowing access to Vienna’s public transportation system and discounts on various attractions.

Food & Drink Options:

  • The Vienna Card:

    • Public Transportation: Offers unlimited travel on the U-Bahn (subway), which is perfect for getting around the city.

  • Historical Restaurants: The “Vienna Pass” offers access to many of the city’s historical restaurants and cafes, often with discounts on meals or drinks.

  • Free Public Transport: Use the “Vienna Card” to travel freely on the public transportation system.

Where to Eat:

  • Traditional Viennese Cuisine: Enjoy a variety of local dishes like Wiener Schnitzel (veal cutlet), Sachertorte (chocolate cake), and other pastries and baked goods, while enjoying discounts offered by the “Vienna Card”.

Things to Note:

  • Free Public Transportation: The “Imperial” theme extends to Vienna’s public transport system. The Vienna Card is a great way to take advantage of all the city has to offer.

  • Coffee Culture: Enjoy a “Wiener Schnitzel” with a side of “Apfelstrudel” at these iconic locations:

    • Café Central: This grand café offers a classic Viennese experience with its beautiful architecture and elegant ambiance.

  • Vienna’s Public Transport System:

    • The Vienna public transport system is efficient and easy to use, so you can explore the city easily.

Other things to enjoy:

  • Public Transportation: Use the “Wiener” tram system for a scenic and affordable way to travel around the city.

  • The Vienna State Opera:

    • Buy tickets for a guided tour or performance (if available).
    • The Vienna State Opera offers a variety of tours and experiences, from behind-the-scenes glimpses to full-blown performances.

Things to do:

  • “Vienna Card”: Enjoy a “traditional Viennese meal” at the “Spanish Riding School” in Vienna (remember, they are famous for their “Lipizzaner horses”!).
  • Other Activities: The “Vienna State Opera” is a must-visit for any opera enthusiast.

Things to do:

  • Try the “Wiener Schnitzel”: This classic dish is a “must-try” in Vienna.
  • Visit the “Museumsquartier”:
  • Experience the vibrant arts scene at the MQ (Museumsquartier), a modern complex with museums, art spaces, and galleries.

Enjoy the city:

  • This section highlights the benefits of using the “Vienna Pass” for enjoying other aspects of Vienna’s culture.

  • Remember:

  • The “Vienna Pass” provides access to many attractions in Vienna, including:

  • MuseumsQuartier (MQ):

  • Cafes & Restaurants:

  • Free Wi-Fi: Enjoy the free Wi-Fi available at the “Belvedere Palace” and other public locations.

  • Travel options: The “Vienna Card” offers discounts on public transportation.

  • Free Travel:

  • Free Public Transportation:

  • Enjoy the “Sacher” experience: The “Vienna Card” gives you access to the “public transport” system, which is a great way to get around and enjoy the city’s attractions.