Vienna in less than 24 hours
Vienna, the capital city of Austria, is a stunning and culturally-rich destination that attracts visitors from around the world. If you’re short on time and only have 24 hours to explore this beautiful city, don’t worry – with a bit of planning, you can still experience some of its most iconic sights and experiences. Here’s a guide to help you make the most of your one-day visit to Vienna:
6:00 - Arrive in Vienna
If you’re arriving by plane, you’ll likely land at Vienna International Airport. From there, you can take the City Airport Train (CAT) or the Vienna Airport Lines bus to get to the city center in just a few minutes. Alternatively, you can take a taxi or a ride-sharing service.
7:00 - Start your day with a Viennese breakfast at a local coffeehouse
Vienna is famous for its coffeehouses, which are an integral part of the city’s cultural heritage. Enjoy a traditional Viennese breakfast, which typically consists of coffee or tea, bread, butter, and jam, at a coffeehouse like Café Sperl, Café Central, or Café Hawelka.
8:00 - Take a walk through the city's historic center, visiting the Hofburg Palace, St. Stephen's Cathedral, and the Vienna State Opera
Vienna’s historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and it’s home to some of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Visit the Hofburg Palace, the former imperial palace of the Habsburg dynasty, St. Stephen’s Cathedral, the city’s main cathedral, and the Vienna State Opera, one of the most renowned opera houses in the world.
10:00 - Visit a museum, such as the Kunsthistorisches Museum or the Museum of Modern Art
Vienna is home to some of the world’s best museums. Check out the Kunsthistorisches Museum, which houses an extensive collection of European art, or the Museum of Modern Art (MUMOK), which focuses on contemporary art from the 20th and 21st centuries.
12:00 - Take a break for lunch
Try a classic Viennese dish at a local restaurant Vienna is known for its hearty cuisine, which includes dishes like Wiener Schnitzel, Tafelspitz, and Kaiserschmarrn. Head to a local restaurant, like Figlmüller, Plachutta, or Zum Schwarzen Kameel, and try one of these traditional dishes.
13:00 - Stroll through one of Vienna's beautiful parks, such as the Schönbrunn Palace Gardens or the Stadtpark
Vienna is home to several beautiful parks, which offer a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. Visit the Schönbrunn Palace Gardens, which are part of the Schönbrunn Palace complex and feature impressive fountains and sculptures, or the Stadtpark, which is home to several musical monuments.
15:00 - Visit the Naschmarkt
Vienna’s largest outdoor market, and sample some local specialties The Naschmarkt is a vibrant market that offers a wide variety of local and international foods. Browse the stalls, sample some fresh produce and local specialties, and soak up the lively atmosphere.
16:30 - Take a ride on the Wiener Riesenrad Ferris wheel for stunning views of the city
The Wiener Riesenrad is a giant Ferris wheel that’s been an iconic part of Vienna’s skyline since 1897. Take a ride to the top for panoramic views of the city.
17:30 - Visit a historic café, like Café Central or Demel
Enjoy a cup of coffee and a pastry Vienna’s coffeehouses are not just for breakfast. Head to a historic café, like Café Central, Demel, or Café Landtmann, and enjoy a cup of coffee and a delicious pastry.
19:00 - For a memorable dinner experience, head to Figlmüller
A historic restaurant that’s been serving traditional Viennese cuisine since 1905. Order the famous Wiener Schnitzel, a breaded and fried veal cutlet that’s been a staple of Viennese cuisine for centuries. Pair it with a local wine or beer, and enjoy the cozy and intimate atmosphere of the restaurant. After dinner, take a stroll through the charming streets of the city center, perhaps stopping to snap a few photos of the beautifully lit St. Stephen’s Cathedral.
