Tour Vienna for first time (30 Must Do’s) 2023 : 360 VR video
Are you ready for a tour to Vienna for the first time? Whether you’re looking for culture, history, or relaxation, Vienna has something for everyone! If you are visiting the city for the first time, here are some of the top things to do in Vienna.
See the 360 VR videos I shot below as I toured around the Palace. (My first time to Vienna as well)
Start your visit with a stroll through Hofburg Palace, home of the former imperial Habsburgs. Spend an afternoon exploring the Baroque architecture and galleries of Belvedere Palace. Explore St. Stephen’s Cathedral or take a boat ride along the Danube.
Get a taste of Vienna’s vibrant art scene at Museums Quartier or spend an evening at one of Vienna’s many opera houses. Finally, don’t forget to sample some of Austria’s famous schnitzel and coffee!
Visiting Vienna is sure to make for an unforgettable experience!
I had the pleasure of taking a tour through Vienna with the Gate 1 Tour Company through Eastern Europe. Throughout my journey, I was able to experience some of the city’s most iconic sites and attractions, from Schönbrunn Palace to the Opera House.
But it wasn’t just about seeing historical monuments; on our tour I also got to savor Vienna’s mouth-watering culinary scene, visit some of its buzzing neighborhoods, and learn about its culture in a way only locals can teach. From start to finish, it was an amazing adventure that opened my eyes to all that the city has to offer.
And if you want to venture outside Vienna for a day tour to Bratislava, I have an article here with video.
As you will see in the 360 video, we were able to see many of these sites in just our short two day visit to the city.
I’ll link an article on best ways to watch 360 VR videos since I’ll be posting a lot of them below.
Take a look at the list of things to do below and then decide which ones are must do for you, depending on how much time you have.
If you are on mobile I recommend opening the video in your Youtube app for the best experience.
1. Stroll through Hofburg Palace
For visitors in Vienna, the Hofburg Palace is a must-see stop on any sightseeing tour. The imperial palace was once home to the Habsburg family, who ruled over Austria for centuries. Today, the palace is open to the public and welcomes thousands of tourists each year.
Inside the building, you can explore grand rooms filled with incredible works of art that date back hundreds of years. Outside, you can wander through beautiful gardens featuring intricate fountains and sculptures. Whether you’re visiting for just a day or staying for longer, strolling through Hofburg Palace is one of the best ways to experience Vienna’s rich history and culture!
There were so many amazing statues and facades to see as we circled the palace grounds in the city.
Here is my full written article on Hofburg palace.
2. Explore Belvedere Palace
The Belvedere Palace is one of Vienna’s most popular tourist attractions, and for good reason. This impressive building is filled with amazing works of art from celebrated Austrian artists, as well as important artifacts from the city’s past.
But perhaps the palace’s greatest feature is its beautiful gardens. Stroll through the manicured paths and flowerbeds or take a break on one of the benches and admire the view of Vienna in the distance.
Whether you’re visiting for just a few days or planning to stay longer, exploring Belvedere Palace is an essential part of experiencing Vienna’s culture and history!
Walking down the long gardens between the two ends of the palace were one of the highlights of our trip.
Tour Vienna’s Belvedere Palace – full guide and video
3. Visit St. Stephen’s Cathedral
A visit to St. Stephen’s Cathedral is a must-do for tourists in Vienna. This iconic Gothic cathedral was built over 700 years ago and is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Austria.
Inside, you can take in the stunning architecture, including intricately carved stone walls and stained glass windows. Outside, you can explore the sprawling plazas, gardens, and courtyards that surround the building.
Take some time to admire the craftsmanship of this ancient structure and soak up its breathtaking atmosphere – a visit to St. Stephen’s Cathedral will give you an unforgettable experience of Vienna’s rich history!
The view of the Cathedral when we walked in the plaza was amazing, and make sure you look at the detailed decorated roof from outside.
Tour Vienna Old Town in 2023 is my written tour with video and more pictures of Old Town with the cathedral and more.
And here is the 360 VR video of Old Town I filmed.
4. Take a boat ride along the Danube
Tour the magical city of Vienna from a whole new perspective and take a boat ride along the Danube. Gaze at the stunning architecture that lines the riverbank and admire the breathtaking views as you drift through this historic landscape.
Along the way, keep an eye out for iconic landmarks like St. Stephen’s Cathedral and Schönbrunn Palace, or just sit back and enjoy the scenery while sipping a glass of Austrian wine! Whether it’s your first time visiting Vienna or you’ve been here before, taking a boat ride along the Danube is sure to be an unforgettable experience!
5. Explore Museums Quartier
Discover a paradise of culture, art, and entertainment when you visit the Museums Quartier in Vienna. This 60-acre complex houses some of the city’s most renowned museums such as the Leopold Museum and MUMOK, as well as art galleries, cafes, and theatres.
Take a stroll through this urban playground and see unique street art exhibits or relax in one of the many tranquil parks scattered throughout the area. Enjoy a cup of Austrian coffee or indulge in some scrumptious Viennese desserts – either way, your visit to Museums Quartier will be an unforgettable experience!
6. Spend an evening at an opera house
Experience the elegance and grace of Austrian culture by spending an evening at one of Vienna’s iconic opera houses. From the timeless melodies of Mozart to the enchanting arias of Strauss, these magnificent theaters offer something for all music aficionados.
Be awed by the breath-taking performances from world-renowned performers, or just marvel at the stunning architecture that fills each venue. Whether you’re a long-time fan of opera or a beginner, a night at an opera house in Vienna is sure to be an unforgettable experience!
7. Sample Austria’s famous schnitzel and coffee
For an authentic Austrian culinary experience, sample some of the country’s most beloved dishes. Begin your meal with a classic cup of coffee, made with freshly ground beans and served with a selection of sweet treats such as apricot marillen knödel and baumkuchen.
Then, indulge in Austria’s iconic schnitzel – whether it be Wiener, Zurek- or Jaegerschnitzel, it is sure to hit the spot! Enjoy these classic dishes with a glass of local wine for a true taste of Austrian cuisine.
8. Wander through the Prater Park
Take a leisurely stroll through the stunning Prater Park in Vienna. This sprawling park is filled with lush greenery, picturesque paths and ponds, and interesting attractions such as a few of the oldest Ferris Wheels in Europe.
Whether you’re looking for an active day of exploring or simply want to relax and take in the beauty of nature, Prater Park is sure to provide something to suit everyone’s tastes. Enjoy the fresh air while you take in the sights, sounds and smells of one of Vienna’s most beloved parks!
9. Check out the Schönbrunn Palace and Gardens
Make sure to explore the stunning Schönbrunn Palace and Gardens during your time in Vienna. This magnificent baroque palace has been home to some of Europe’s most famous rulers and its grand facade, lavish interior and stunning gardens are sure to take your breath away.
Roam the sprawling grounds, admire the cascading fountains, see exotic flora, sample local delicacies at one of the park’s cafes and admire the intricate architecture of this legendary landmark.
We took a bus tour out to the palace since it’s not right in the central area. The fountain out back was magnificent as you can see and I shot this virtual reality video while I was there.
10. Take a Vienna Sightseeing Bus Tour
Have you ever been to Vienna? If so, you know there is no better way to explore the city than by taking a Vienna Sightseeing Bus Tour! You’ll get the opportunity to take in some of the most beautiful and historic sights in the city without having to worry about navigating traffic or finding parking.
The tour takes you past famous landmarks like the Hofburg Palace, Schonbrunn Palace, and Stephansdom Cathedral, while knowledgeable guides provide interesting commentary on each of the sites and answer any questions you may have.
You’ll also get great views of Vienna from on top of a double-decker bus, as well as plenty of photo ops. Whether you’re visiting for just a day or planning a vacation for weeks, taking a Vienna Sightseeing Bus Tour is one of the best ways to experience this amazing city!
We’ve taken multiple bus tours in cities before and its always a great way to visit a city to hit the highlights.
11. Taste Austria’s famous pastries
Make sure to sample some of Austria’s delicious pastries while you’re in town. From flaky Sachertorte cakes, decadent Germknödel desserts and delectable apple strudel to buttery Linzertorte cookies and sweet Topfenkuchen cheesecakes, Vienna offers an array of delicious treats that will surely appeal to all palettes.
Whether you opt for a classic Viennese pastry or prefer to explore the city’s modern bakeries, make sure to take a bite out of Austrian dessert culture on your next visit!
12. Shop in Vienna’s city center
Experience the vibrant shopping scene of Vienna’s city center. Here you will find a wide array of stores, from designer boutiques to local markets.
Explore the elegant arcades, where you can window shop your way through designer brands and unique items of all sorts. Discover charming specialty stores in historic buildings or browse some of the city’s pop-up shops in parks and squares.
13. Attend a concert at Vienna State Opera
Immerse yourself in the magical atmosphere of Vienna State Opera. Located in the heart of Vienna, this grand opera house is a must-see destination for any music enthusiast.
Enjoy classic symphonies and operas performed by some of the world’s most talented musicians or take in a ballet performance with choreography as beautiful as its surroundings. The architecture and interior design are stunning, and you won’t want to miss out on this incredible opportunity to experience Viennese culture at its finest!
14. Tour several of Vienna’s art galleries
Discover Vienna’s art and culture by visiting some of its incredible art galleries. The Albertina Museum features a collection of drawings, prints, photography, and modern art.
Explore the Leopold Museum for contemporary Austrian artwork or visit the Museum Hundertwasser for an immersive experience in the works of famous Austrian painter Friedensreich Hundertwasser. For a unique spin on museum-going, visit Galerie Krinzinger for its rotating exhibits of avant-garde pieces from local and international artists.
15. Enjoy some of Vienna’s delicious local cuisine
Vienna is renowned for its delicious local cuisine. Sample some of the best with a visit to a traditional Wiener Schnitzel restaurant or enjoy melt-in-your-mouth Viennese pastries like Apfelstrudel and Sachertorte. You can also sample regional specialties such as Tafelspitz (boiled beef), Käsespätzle (cheese noodles), and Germknödel (yeast dumpling).
For a taste of something truly unique, try the famous Palatschinken – thin crepes filled with apricot jam and topped with melted butter and sugar. No matter what you choose, you won’t be disappointed!
16. Try one of Vienna’s famous coffeehouses
Experience Vienna’s renowned coffee culture by visiting one of its legendary coffeehouses. Choose from classic coffees such as Melange, Cappuccino and Wiener Eiskaffee (Viennese iced coffee).
Or, opt for a specialty coffee like Mozart Kaffee – made with espresso and chocolate syrup. For an espresso-based beverage try the Kaisermarmelade – comprising a shot of espresso topped with orange marmalade, or the Pharisäer – a mix of espresso, dark rum and sugar.
17. Climb up to the top of St. Stephen’s Cathedral tower
Climb up to the top of St. Stephen’s Cathedral tower for a breathtaking view of Vienna. The 343-step trek may seem daunting, but it’s worth it for the magnificent panoramic vista from the south tower.
Once you reach the top, admire its Gothic architecture and take in the sights of Vienna. You can even see up close some of the intricate sculptures and carvings that adorn the cathedral.
At night, witness its beautiful illuminations and enjoy an unforgettable experience in one of Vienna’s most iconic landmarks.
18. Relax in one of Vienna’s many luxurious spa resorts
Take some time to relax and rejuvenate at one of Vienna’s luxurious spa resorts. With a wide array of treatments, pools, saunas and steam rooms, you’re sure to find the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Immerse yourself in pampering treatments like massages, facials or body scrubs to ease your stress away. Take a dip in an indoor pool for some restorative exercise or simply lounge in the peaceful atmosphere of the spa gardens – there’s something for everyone! Get ready for an unforgettable experience at Vienna’s best spa resorts.
19. Catch a show at Volkstheater
Experience the wonders of theatre at the renowned Volkstheater in Vienna. As one of Austria’s oldest and most beloved theaters, it offers world-class performances of both classics and modern works – sure to delight both young and old.
Enjoy an entertaining night out with friends or family as you take in a variety of shows, from musicals to comedies and dramas. From timeless gems to daring avant-garde pieces and thought-provoking contemporary productions – you’ll be sure to find something to love. Get your tickets now for an unforgettable performance at Volkstheater!
20. Visit the Spanish Riding School
Step back in time and marvel at the grandeur of Vienna’s Spanish Riding School! This centuries-old institution is a must-see for any visitor wanting to experience the city’s storied history. Watch as riders and their majestic white Lipizzaner stallions perform beautiful choreographed movements, accompanied by classical music.
Admire the graceful artistry of these impressive horses as they perform a range of maneuvers such as piaffe, passade, and levade. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to see one of Vienna’s most beloved cultural attractions – visit the Spanish Riding School today!
21. Shop at Vienna’s famous Naschmarkt
Spend a day exploring the wonders of Vienna’s world-famous Naschmarkt! This vibrant open-air market is one of Europe’s largest, with hundreds of stalls offering a variety of fresh produce, exotic delicacies, and homegrown specialties.
Stroll through the bustling alleyways as you sample delectable dishes from around the world – including authentic Austrian pastries and coffee.
Discover unique souvenirs such as handmade jewelry, vintage clothing, and rare antiques. With a mix of locals and tourists alike, there’s something for everyone on offer at Naschmarkt.
22. Visit the Leopold Museum
Spend a day exploring the incredible artworks at Vienna’s Leopold Museum! This impressive museum houses the largest collection of Austrian modern and contemporary art – with over 7,000 works from renowned artists like Gustav Klimt, Oskar Kokoschka and Egon Schiele.
Wander through the galleries and enjoy stunning views of the city skyline. Discover fascinating stories behind each masterpiece, learn more about the history of Vienna’s art scene, or simply marvel at the beautiful artwork on display.
23 Take a ride on the Prater Ferris wheel
Experience the magic of Vienna from up high with a ride on the iconic Prater Ferris wheel! Take a seat in one of the traditional wooden carriages and admire sweeping views of the city below – from St. Stephen’s Cathedral to the Danube River.
As you go around, you’ll be able to spot some of Vienna’s most famous landmarks and attractions, along with stunning natural scenery.
Whether you come during the day or at night, a ride on this magnificent structure will make for an unforgettable experience. So don’t miss out on your chance to take a ride on one of Vienna’s most beloved attractions – book your ticket now!
24 Naturhistorisches Museum
One of Vienna’s top attractions is the Natural History Museum, located in the city’s central district. This incredible museum houses a wide range of fascinating exhibits and collections, from dinosaur skeletons to preserved insects, as well as interactive displays on different topics such as evolution, geology, climate change and more.
The museum also has several special exhibitions throughout the year focusing on a particular theme or topic. It is definitely worth a visit for any tourist looking to learn more about Vienna’s natural history and discover more about the world around them.
25 Maria Theresa Plaza
Maria Theresa Plaza with a massive statue that includes her in the center. You will see it in the video and is worth to visit even if you don’t go in the museums.
26 Kunsthistorisches Museum
Located in Vienna’s Innere Stadt district, the Kunsthistorisches Museum (Museum of Art History) is one of the city’s most iconic attractions. The museum features a wide array of collections, ranging from ancient Egyptian artifacts to Baroque paintings and Renaissance sculptures.
It also houses a number of works by some of the world’s most renowned artists, including Rembrandt, Raphael, Michelangelo and Rubens. Visitors can browse the museum’s galleries or take part in one of its special exhibitions.
27 Listen to Orchestral performance
Vienna is an incredible city to experience the power and beauty of classical music. Its orchestra culture dates back centuries, making it one of the most renowned destinations for orchestral performances in Europe.
Whether you’re a fan of traditional compositions or modern works, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy the sound of a live Austrian orchestra. Here are some of Vienna’s best places to listen to classical music:
Vienna State Opera House – with over 1,400 seats and grandiose 18th-century surroundings, this venue showcases everything from timeless operas to soaring symphonies. Schönbrunn Palace – built during Austria’s Imperial age, Schönbrunn Palace hosts spectacular concerts throughout summer set against its breathtaking Baroque ambience and gardens.
We went to as smaller orchestra house for a more personal experience where you are right close to the stage and the performers. The building itself is old style and majestic and we have that in the video as well.
28 Rathuas and Rathausplatz (City Hall and plaza)
Rathausplatz is an iconic square in Vienna that’s a must-visit destination for locals and tourists alike. Located in the heart of the city, it is surrounded by grand edifices and monuments, including the City Hall (Rathaus) and the Burgtheater.
The bustling atmosphere at Rathausplatz is especially vibrant during special occasions such as Christmas markets or Winter holidays, when stalls filled with seasonal treats line up against its cobbled paths.
During summers too, you’ll find a variety of events taking place here – from concerts to famous operas or open-air theatre performances. It’s also home to two large fountains which regularly feature a variety of shows.
CityHall was closed for renovation when we visited but you could still walk around and see some of the plaza.
29 Burgtheater
Vienna’s Burgtheater is considered one of the greatest stages in the world and a true icon of the city.
Situated in Rathausplatz, it has been entertaining audiences since 1776 with some of Austria’s most beloved theatrical performances. Its impressive auditorium is adorned with ornate chandeliers, marble statues and grand fresco paintings – making it a fitting home for both traditional and contemporary plays.
The Burgtheater also houses an exhibition hall where you can learn about its rich history, as well as explore modern artworks from around the world. Make sure to catch one of their special events too – from musicals to operas or recitals – there’s something for everyone at this renowned theatre!
30 Days tours out of Vienna
Leave Vienna for the close by capital of Slovakia, Bratislava for a day tour. (that link is the guide and video)
360 VR travel Videos
Here’s my comprehensive list of 360 videos of Vienna on my YouTube Channel.
I’ve got other 360 videos to Prague (including this written list of must do’s in Prague ) and other cities I visited on a multi city tour group on the channel and website as well. Check it out 🙂
My Budapest, Hungary for first time blog.
