Vienna Austria 7 Day Itinerary

7-Day Vienna Itinerary: A Waltz Through History and Culture

Where to Stay:

  • Budget: Wombats City Hostel Vienna - The Naschmarkt (modern, social, centrally located)
  • Mid-Range: Hotel Austria - A charming boutique hotel in the heart of the city.
  • Luxury: Hotel Sacher Wien - Iconic luxury with a history steeped in Viennese tradition.

Transportation:

  • Vienna Pass: Highly recommended for unlimited public transport and free/discounted entry to many attractions.
  • U-Bahn (Subway): Efficient and covers most of the city.
  • Trams & Buses: Extensive network connecting various neighborhoods.
  • Walking: Vienna is incredibly walkable, especially within the inner districts.

Things to Know:

  • Language: German is the official language. English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
  • Currency: Euro (€)
  • Tipping: 5-10% is customary in restaurants and for taxi drivers.
  • Opening Hours: Many shops and museums are closed on Sundays.

Itinerary:

Day 1: Imperial Vienna

  • Morning: Arrive in Vienna, check into your accommodation. Explore the Hofburg Palace, including the Imperial Apartments and the Silver Collection.
  • Afternoon: Stroll through the beautiful gardens of Schönbrunn Palace, visit the Zoo (Tiergarten Schönbrunn) if you’re an animal lover.
  • Evening: Enjoy a traditional Viennese dinner at Figlmüller (famous for Schnitzel) or Plachutta (renowned for Tafelspitz).

Day 2: Art & Music

  • Morning: Visit the Belvedere Palace, home to Gustav Klimt’s iconic painting “The Kiss”.
  • Afternoon: Explore the Kunsthistorisches Museum (Museum of Art History), showcasing masterpieces from Renaissance to Baroque.
  • Evening: Attend a classical music concert at the Musikverein or the Vienna State Opera (book tickets in advance!).

Day 3: Coffee Culture & Shopping

  • Morning: Indulge in Viennese coffee culture at one of the many historic cafes like Café Central, Café Sacher, or Café Prück.
  • Afternoon: Explore the elegant boutiques and designer shops along Kärntner Straße and Graben.
  • Evening: Sample Austrian cuisine and local beers at a Heuriger (wine tavern) in Grinzing or Nussdorf.

Day 4: History & Architecture

  • Morning: Visit St. Stephen’s Cathedral, climb the South Tower for panoramic views of Vienna. Explore the nearby historic streets and squares.
  • Afternoon: Learn about Vienna’s Jewish history at the Jewish Museum Vienna and the Holocaust Memorial.
  • Evening: Enjoy a modern Viennese dining experience at Steirereck (Michelin-starred) or Tian (vegetarian).

Day 5: Gardens & Relaxation

  • Morning: Relax and enjoy the tranquility of Prater Park, ride the iconic Giant Ferris Wheel for stunning views.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Schönbrunn Zoo (Tiergarten Schönbrunn), one of the oldest zoos in the world.
  • Evening: Experience Viennese nightlife with a performance at a traditional Heuriger or a modern club.

Day 6: Day Trip to Salzburg

  • Morning: Take a scenic train ride to Salzburg (approximately 2.5 hours). Explore the birthplace of Mozart, visit Hohensalzburg Fortress and Mirabell Gardens.
  • Afternoon: Wander through the charming Old Town, enjoy a Mozartkugel (chocolate treat).
  • Evening: Return to Vienna by train.

Day 7: Departure

  • Morning: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel or a local cafe. Pick up last-minute souvenirs.
  • Afternoon: Depart from Vienna International Airport.

Additional Tips:

  • Purchase the Vienna Pass for cost-effective access to attractions and transportation.
  • Wear comfortable shoes as you’ll be doing a lot of walking.
  • Try Sachertorte, Apfelstrudel, and other Viennese pastries.
  • Learn a few basic German phrases.

Enjoy your magical journey through Vienna!