How To Spend 3 Magical Days In Vienna, Austria

Vienna is known for a lot of things, namely its Imperial palaces; Danube Canal; historical landmarks; cultural heritage—Vienna is “The Waltz Capital of the World”, hosting over 400 balls each year; and cuisine—the Viennese sausage, Wiener Schnitzel, and the Sacher Torte are just three favorites. Austria’s capital city is also known as “The City of Music”—Mozart, Beethoven, Brahms, and more all worked here at some point in their prolific careers.

One of the reasons this city has such a high quality of life for its nearly two million residents is its water—free and accessible to all. Fresh and clear, spring water bubbles out of the taps throughout the city. Originating from the lower Austrian Alps, the water makes its way directly to the capital without the use of pumps via two Mountain Spring Pipelines. “Vienna has more than 1,300 fountains,” says tour guide, Ilse Heigerth.

If you only have three days to explore, and you’ve never visited this vibrant metropolis before, keep reading for the top things to do.

Experience the Engaging Allure of Vienna

One of the best facts about the city is how easy it is to get around. The public transportation is fast, convenient, clean, and easy. Certainly, adding to what makes Vienna one of the most livable cities in Europe, the U-Bahn (subway), Schnellbahn or S-Bahn (local train), trams, and Autobus (bus) are the backbone of the city and safe and efficient ways to explore.

Operating on the honor system, there are no turnstiles or ticket barriers at the various stations—you simply hop on and hop off. Designed for tourists, the Vienna City Card can be purchased ahead of time for a 72-hour trip. The card grants users unlimited travel anywhere within the city limits. There’s an easy-to-use app that will save your transportation card, so you don’t have to hold onto any paper tickets. Also, you can add the airport transfer to the card as well.

See Crystal Clear

Famous for its crystal and bespoke lighting, J. & L. Lobmeyr, founded in 1823, is celebrating 200 years. Suppliers to the Imperial Court, Lobmeyr glasses are still created by hand. If you visit the store, you can see the massive mirror originally from the Vienna World’s Fair, which took place exactly 150 years ago in 1873.

Further, the Museum of Applied Arts (MAK) has an exhibit called Glitz and Glamour where you can learn more about the history of Lobmeyr craftsmanship.

Enjoy Fun Events and Activities

While in the city, take advantage of the many events and activities happening throughout the year. In July and August, for example, visit the square outside of City Hall for the alfresco 33^rd Film Festival on Rathausplatz featuring opera, classical, rock, and pop music as well as a variety of food vendors.

In the fall, a number of art and design happenings draw visitors from all over the world. Enjoy complimentary tours, art fairs, and night visits to the most popular museums in the city. Vienna Design Week runs from September 22—October 1 and Vienna Art Week happens in November.

Stroll Along the Lord of the Ring Roads

A circular grand boulevard called Ringstrasse, or ring road, is located on the site of what was once a wall with medieval fortifications. Walk along this route, flanked by trees and parks in many sections, and you’ll pass the Vienna State Opera, Museum of Art History, Museum of Natural History, Parliament, Burgtheater, and City Hall.

Be in Awe of the Still-Standing Architecture

The most stunning building in Vienna is the Gothic St. Stephen’s Cathedral, surrounded by narrow cobblestoned streets and impressive architecture in the historic quarter. The symbol of the capital city, climb to the top of the South Tower for an Instagram-worthy rooftop view.

Dine at a Boho-Inspired Waterfront Restaurant

With beautiful ambient lighting, live jazzy music, and an energetic environment, NENI am Wasser is located right on the Danube Canal, a popular cultural enclave. Order a specialty cocktail—or two, appetizers and small plates, and for your main, Mediterranean whole fish with an Israeli salad on the side.

Shop at an Open-Air Market

When wandering around the city, be sure to visit the Nashmarkt, one of the most popular things to do in the city. This open-air market is full of stalls with fruits and vegetables, spices, sardines, baked goods, and more. There are plenty of cafes as well should you want to sit down and watch the people go by.

Nosh on Bites and Sip Espresso

The café culture is well known in Vienna and should definitely be a part of your itinerary. Spend time at Vollpension, a generational “Granny Café” that employs folks over 60 years-old, with the mission of combating age-related isolation and poverty while at the same time, creating community.

In addition, make a reservation for one of Vienna’s most historic and beloved cafes along the Ringstasse, Café Landtmann. A well-known cafe, in operation since 1873, it’s here that you can enjoy one of a dozen different types of coffee alongside mouthwatering traditional fare.

Bike Around an Island

The 13-mile-long Danube Island is super popular with locals and outdoor enthusiasts. Easily reached from the city center via subway (remember that awesome transportation?) or bicycle, this area has plenty of trails for biking, hiking, and running as well as access to the water for swimming. You’ll find plenty of platforms for sunbathing as well. This warm-weather retreat is a special Viennese pastime.

Rest Your Head

Well located along the famous Danube Canal, SO/Vienna is a luxury hotel that has all of the amenities and flourishes you require yet with a comfortable and friendly environment. Providing a contrast to the nearby historic district, this hotel is modern, full of engaging art, and entirely stylish.

Enjoy the rooftop restaurant, Das LOFT, with its stunning panoramic views, contemporary bar, and delectable cuisine that is best enjoyed with Austrian wine pairings. Art connoisseurs will appreciate the multi-hued ceiling work of art, created by Pipilotti Rist, which creates the most magical experience at sunset as it reflects off the glass and seemingly flows right into the city.