Itineraries for Your Trip to Vienna
1 Day in Vienna for First Timers
As a traveler who has, over time, spent many months in Vienna, it’s amusing that I barely recall my first time in the city as a jetlagged exchange student passing through. What I fondly remember, though, is my second time in the city, marvelling at wave after wave of grand architecture that seemed to greet me around every corner.
Vienna is endlessly fascinating to someone like me who is deeply curious about history and culture. My frequent visits have allowed me to work my way through many of its museums and palaces, but some remain unseen. One day in Vienna isn’t enough to see the whole city, but this itinerary will help you make a great start.
Summers in Vienna are quite warm and also when the city receives much of its rain, so pack an umbrella.
If you only have time for one thing, make it a tour inside Schönbrunn Palace.
Waste no time exploring Vienna’s imperial history by taking the U-Bahn (the metro) out to Schönbrunn Palace, the city’s most famous landmark. Tour the private apartments that the Habsburgs once used as their summer residence to see the extravagant rooms once home to Emperor Franz Joseph and Empress Elisabeth (Sisi). Continue exploring by venturing out into the expansive Schönbrunn Palace Garden and walk up to the Gloriette for its city views.
Return by U-Bahn to the Historic Center of Vienna, where you can join a walking tour or explore on your own, to see an unending parade of grand buildings and important city landmarks. Start at St. Stephen's Cathedral for a conveniently central location, and after a visit to the church, follow the lively pedestrian streets of Graben and Kohlmarkt to the Hofburg Imperial Palace. Choose from one of the many attractions inside the palace, such as the Sisi Museum and Albertina, before heading out to the Ringstrasse, home to the elaborate Rathaus and imposing Austrian Parliament Building.
Vienna is world-famous for its connection to classical music and composers such as Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and Ludwig van Beethoven. Experience the city’s musical heritage with an evening concert and enjoy the benefit of seeing inside one of the city’s many impressive venues. With its gilded interior, the Musikverein is one of the most popular concert halls; however, performances are also held at many of the city’s churches, such as the St. Peter’s Church.
