Vienna in 3 days

Belvedere Palace in Vienna is more than just a palace—it’s a masterpiece of Baroque architecture and a treasure trove of Austrian art. Built in the 18th century as a summer residence for Prince Eugene of Savoy, this grand complex consists of two stunning palaces—the Upper Belvedere and the Lower Belvedere—surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens. The Upper Belvedere houses one of the world’s most impressive art collections, including Gustav Klimt’s iconic painting The Kiss, along with masterpieces by Schiele, Monet, and Van Gogh. The palace itself is a work of art, featuring ornate ceilings, grand staircases, and breathtaking views over Vienna. Whether you’re an art lover, a history enthusiast, or simply looking to admire the elegance of imperial Vienna, Belvedere Palace is a must-visit destination.

Opened in 1869, this magnificent Neo-Renaissance building has hosted legendary composers, conductors, and performers, cementing Vienna’s status as a global capital of classical music. The opera house boasts exceptional acoustics, a lavish interior with grand chandeliers, and a stage that brings over 350 performances to life each season, from timeless operas by Mozart, Verdi, and Wagner to world-class ballet productions. For those who want to experience its magic without attending a performance, guided tours offer a behind-the-scenes look at its history, architecture, and backstage secrets. Whether you’re a devoted opera fan or simply soaking in Vienna’s cultural splendor, the Vienna State Opera is an unmissable landmark.

The Mozart Monument in Vienna is a stunning tribute to Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, one of the world’s greatest composers. Located in Burggarten, a beautiful park near the Hofburg Palace, this elegant white marble statue was unveiled in 1896 and has since become one of Vienna’s most iconic landmarks. The monument shows Mozart in a graceful pose, as if he is about to perform, with intricate musical decorations carved into the base. Below the statue, a detailed relief depicts a scene from his famous opera Don Giovanni, highlighting his incredible contribution to classical music.

One of the most charming details of the monument is the flower bed shaped like a treble clef, which changes colors with the seasons and adds a unique artistic touch to the setting. Surrounded by lush greenery and historic architecture, the Mozart Monument is a favorite spot for visitors, music lovers, and photographers alike. Whether you’re exploring Vienna’s musical history, taking a relaxing walk through the park, or simply admiring the craftsmanship of the statue, this monument is a wonderful place to celebrate Mozart’s legacy and the city’s deep connection to classical music.

Located in front of the Hofburg Palace, this grand square was designed in the 19th century as part of Emperor Franz Joseph’s ambitious plan to expand the imperial residence. Today, it remains one of the most important historical sites in Austria.

The square is flanked by the Neue Burg, a stunning Neo-Baroque wing of the Hofburg, and offers breathtaking views of Vienna’s historic center. Two equestrian statues stand proudly in the square, honoring Archduke Charles and Prince Eugene of Savoy, two of Austria’s greatest military leaders.

Heldenplatz has also witnessed key moments in history, including Adolf Hitler’s infamous speech in 1938, announcing Austria’s annexation to Nazi Germany. Despite its complex past, today it is a peaceful space where visitors can walk, admire the grand architecture, or relax with a view of the palace gardens.

The Austrian Parliament in Vienna is one of the city’s most important buildings and a symbol of democracy. Located on the Ringstraße, it was designed by Theophil Hansen and completed in 1883. The building stands out with its Greek-style columns and beautiful statues, giving it a grand and elegant look.

In front of the Parliament is the Pallas Athena Fountain, featuring a tall statue of Athena, the Greek goddess of wisdom, which represents knowledge and justice. Inside, Austria’s National Council and Federal Council meet to make important decisions and laws for the country.

After a major renovation, the Parliament reopened in 2023, allowing visitors to explore its halls, learn about Austria’s government, and see impressive artwork. Whether you’re interested in politics, history, or architecture, the Austrian Parliament is a fascinating place to visit in Vienna.

Rathausplatz in Vienna is a lively and beautiful square in front of the Vienna City Hall (Rathaus). It is one of the most popular places in the city, known for its events, festivals, and stunning architecture. The square is surrounded by historic buildings and a lovely park, making it a great place to walk and relax. Throughout the year, Rathausplatz hosts exciting events, including the Christmas Market, where visitors can enjoy festive lights, food, and gifts, and the Ice Skating Rink in winter. In summer, the Film Festival brings outdoor movie screenings and delicious food stands. With its impressive views of the Rathaus, lively atmosphere, and year-round activities, Rathausplatz is a must-visit spot in Vienna for both tourists and locals.

Palais Daun-Kinsky in Vienna is a beautiful Baroque palace located in the city center. Built in the 18th century, it was designed by famous architect Johann Lukas von Hildebrandt and was once home to the noble Daun-Kinsky family.

The palace is known for its elegant architecture, with a richly decorated façade and impressive grand staircase inside. The ballrooms and salons feature stunning ceiling frescoes, golden details, and luxurious chandeliers, making it a perfect place for special events, weddings, and receptions.

Today, Palais Daun-Kinsky is mainly used for private events and business gatherings, but visitors can admire its beauty from the outside or attend special occasions held inside. With its historic charm and elegant design, it is one of Vienna’s most beautiful palaces.

Opened in 1876, it has been a meeting place for writers, poets, and famous thinkers like Sigmund Freud and Leo Trotsky. The café is known for its elegant architecture, with high ceilings, beautiful arches, and a cozy atmosphere. It offers a great selection of traditional Austrian pastries, including Apfelstrudel and Sachertorte, as well as delicious coffee. Visitors love Café Central not just for its food and drinks, but also for its charming and historic feel. Whether you're stopping by for breakfast, a sweet treat, or just to soak in the atmosphere, this café is a must-visit spot in Vienna.

Built in the 18th century, it is one of the oldest and most impressive churches in Vienna.

The church stands out with its green dome and richly decorated interior, filled with golden details, frescoes, and stunning artwork. Inside, visitors can admire the grand altar, beautiful ceiling paintings, and a peaceful atmosphere perfect for reflection.

Peterskirche also hosts free organ concerts, making it a great place to enjoy classical music in a breathtaking setting. Whether you visit for its history, art, or music, St. Peter’s Church is a hidden gem in Vienna worth exploring.

Ausgrabungen Michaelerplatz in Vienna is a fascinating place where you can see ancient ruins in the middle of the city. Located in Michaelerplatz, right in front of the Hofburg Palace, these excavations reveal the remains of Roman and medieval buildings, giving a glimpse into Vienna’s past.

Visitors can see the foundations of old houses, a Roman road, and parts of ancient walls, showing how the city developed over time. The ruins were discovered during construction work in the 20th century, and instead of covering them up, they were left open for everyone to see.

Surrounded by historic buildings like St. Michael’s Church and the grand Hofburg, this spot is a mix of old and new.

The Emperor Franz I Monument in Vienna is a grand statue honoring Franz I, who was Emperor of Austria in the 19th century. It stands in the inner courtyard of the Hofburg Palace, one of Vienna’s most important historical sites.

The statue shows Franz I in a royal robe, with one hand raised as if giving a speech. Around the base of the monument, there are four seated figures representing peace, faith, strength, and wisdom—important values during his rule.

Surrounded by beautiful palace buildings, the Emperor Franz I Monument is a great place to stop and admire history while exploring the Hofburg. It’s a symbol of Austria’s past and a reminder of the country’s royal heritage.

The Donnerbrunnen (Donner Fountain) in Vienna is a beautiful Baroque fountain located in the heart of the city at Neuer Markt Square. It was created in 1739 by the famous sculptor Georg Raphael Donner and is one of Vienna’s most famous fountains.

The fountain features a large water basin with elegant bronze statues representing four river gods, symbolizing Austria’s most important rivers. At the center once stood a statue of Providentia (the goddess of foresight), but the original was removed in the 18th century.

Surrounded by historic buildings and charming cafés, the Donnerbrunnen is a peaceful and artistic spot where visitors can relax and admire its detailed sculptures. Whether you're passing by or stopping to take photos, this fountain is a small but beautiful part of Vienna’s rich history.

The Johann Strauss Monument in Vienna is a beautiful golden statue of Johann Strauss II, the famous Austrian composer known as the "King of Waltz." It is located in Stadtpark, one of Vienna’s most popular parks.

Unveiled in 1921, the statue shows Strauss playing the violin, surrounded by a decorative arch with elegant details. It is one of the most photographed spots in the city, attracting music lovers and tourists from all over the world.

The monument is a tribute to Strauss’s wonderful music, including his most famous piece, "The Blue Danube" waltz.

Schönbrunn Palace in Vienna is one of Austria’s most famous landmarks and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This stunning Baroque palace was the summer home of the Habsburg emperors, including Empress Maria Theresa and Emperor Franz Joseph.

With 1,441 rooms, the palace is full of beautifully decorated halls, elegant furniture, and historical treasures. Visitors can explore the Grand Gallery, the Hall of Mirrors, and even the rooms where Mozart once performed as a child.

Outside, the huge gardens are just as impressive. The Gloriette, a magnificent arch on a hill, offers amazing views of Vienna. There is also the Schönbrunn Zoo, the oldest zoo in the world, and the famous Neptune Fountain.