Vienna Austria 6 Day Itinerary

Vienna: A 6-Day Itinerary

Where To Stay:

  • Budget: Wombats City Hostel Vienna Naschmarkt or a&o Wien Hauptbahnhof.
  • Mid-Range: Hotel Kaiserin Elisabeth, Hotel Sacher Wien (splurge!), or The Levante Parliament.
  • Luxury: Palais Hansen Kempinski Vienna, Hotel Bristol Vienna.

Transportation:

  • Vienna Pass: Offers free public transportation and entry to many attractions. Highly recommended!
  • U-Bahn (Metro): Efficient and connects most of the city.
  • Trams: Scenic way to explore different neighborhoods.
  • Walking: Vienna is very walkable, especially the central districts.

Things To Know:

  • Currency: Euro (€)
  • Language: German, but English widely spoken in tourist areas.
  • Tipping: 5-10% is customary for good service.
  • Coffee Culture: Enjoy a “Wiener Melange” (Viennese coffee with milk foam) at a traditional café.

Day 1: Imperial Splendor

  • Morning: Explore the Schönbrunn Palace, including the gardens and zoo. (Consider buying tickets in advance.)
  • Afternoon: Wander through the Hofburg Palace complex, home to the Imperial Apartments and the Silver Collection.
  • Evening: Dinner at Figlmüller (renowned for their schnitzel) followed by a classical concert at the Vienna State Opera or Musikverein.

Day 2: Art & Architecture

  • Morning: Visit the Belvedere Palace, admiring Gustav Klimt’s “The Kiss” and exploring the Baroque gardens.
  • Afternoon: Experience art from all eras at the Kunsthistorisches Museum (Art History Museum).
  • Evening: Enjoy traditional Viennese cuisine at Plachutta Wollzeile (famous for their Tafelspitz) or Zum Schwarzen Kameel (historic tavern with Austrian specialties).

Day 3: Music & Markets

  • Morning: Take a guided tour of the Vienna State Opera House, learning about its history and architecture.
  • Afternoon: Explore the Naschmarkt, a vibrant open-air market offering local produce, delicacies, and souvenirs.
  • Evening: Catch a performance at the Volksoper (Vienna Folk Opera) for a more accessible musical experience.

Day 4: History & Views

  • Morning: Visit the St. Stephen’s Cathedral, climb the South Tower for panoramic city views, and explore the catacombs below.
  • Afternoon: Take a relaxing walk through the Prater Park, enjoying amusement rides (including the iconic Giant Ferris Wheel) and green spaces.
  • Evening: Dine at Steirereck im Stadtpark (Michelin-starred restaurant with innovative Austrian cuisine).

Day 5: Beyond the City Center

  • Morning: Day trip to the charming town of Dürnstein in the Wachau Valley, known for its vineyards and medieval castle ruins.
  • Afternoon: Enjoy a wine tasting at one of the many wineries in the region.
  • Evening: Dinner at a traditional Heuriger (wine tavern) in the Wachau Valley.

Day 6: Departure & Last Bites

  • Morning: Stroll through the MuseumsQuartier, a contemporary arts complex with museums, cafes, and shops.
  • Afternoon: Indulge in one last Sachertorte (chocolate cake) at Demel or Café Sacher.
  • Evening: Depart from Vienna International Airport (VIE).

Tips:

  • Vienna Pass: Consider purchasing a Vienna Pass for free public transportation and entry to many attractions.
  • Book in advance: Popular attractions, concerts, and restaurants often require reservations.
  • Learn basic German phrases: While English is widely spoken, knowing some basic German will enhance your experience.
  • Embrace the coffee culture: Enjoy a “Wiener Melange” (Viennese coffee with milk foam) at a traditional café.
  • Explore beyond the city center: Take day trips to charming towns like Dürnstein or Gmunden for a change of scenery.