Vienna is the best of both worlds, where modern, cosmopolitan city life meets old world style/cultural heritage. Here’s how to see it in one weekend.
Vienna is known as one of the most diverse capitals in Europe – a delightful blend of history, culture and tradition seamlessly blended with a modern, trendy, walkable city with no shortage of trendy restaurants and exciting attractions. For those looking to experience the best of Austria’s capital in a weekend, there are several ways to explore that will make it easy to see the city’s top sights. From historic sites to abundant green spaces; to epic restaurants and eclectic neighborhoods, Vienna has something for every traveler keen to explore the beautiful city of music on a weekend.
Vienna community
When visiting Vienna, there is no need to step outside the city boundaries – a very walkable city, travelers can find almost everything they need within the boundaries of the Austrian capital, including vineyards, parks, forests, and even its own “island”. However, the city itself is divided into districts, each with its own personality, charm and attractions. Below are just a few of the most popular areas in Vienna.
• Inner City (First District) Surrounded by the Ringstraße boulevard (once the city’s defensive wall), the first district is the beating heart of Vienna with many of its most popular attractions, shops, restaurants, museums and hotels.
• Mariahilf (6th district) Here, visitors can find the best shopping in Vienna, including the Mariahilferstrasse shopping street. The 6th district is one of the liveliest areas of the city and is also home to many bars, theatres and the Vienna Aquarium.
• Hietzing (13th arrondissement) is home to some of the city’s most popular tourist attractions – including Vienna Zoo and Schönbrunn Palace – and is also home to lush expanses of woodland, scenic wineries and many hiking trails.
when to go to vienna
Due to mild weather (but sometimes rain), Vienna is a year-round tourist destination with the most tourists in summer. In spring and autumn, there are fewer tourists and hotel prices are lower – the weather is a bit chilly but still pleasant. Although winters in Vienna can be very cold, it’s also an incredibly magical time thanks to festive decorations and Christmas festivities.
• Getting around: The city has an extremely convenient public transportation system, including buses, trains, trams, local trains, and the subway (U-Bahn), so it’s easy to explore. Cycling Vienna is also easy, as it is one of the most cycling cities in Europe, with bike stations available throughout the city.
• Hot Tips: The Vienna City Card offers discounts on attractions and tours, as well as free access to select public transport; the Vienna Pass is an all-inclusive ticket to many of the city’s top attractions
• When to go: The relatively mild temperatures in autumn and spring (around the “rainy season”, which usually lasts from May to August) are the best times to visit Vienna.
• Fun fact: Vienna was once home to famous classical composers such as Mozart, Beethoven, Brahms and Strauss, and is known as the “City of Music”.
Where to Stay in Vienna
Vienna has a wide range of first-class accommodation facilities waiting to welcome guests to the capital. From opulent, palatial architecture, history and style to spares; from trendy, chic boutiques to trendy boutiques full of modernity, every traveler looking for a unique accommodation will find something unique to suit Vienna.
Where to eat and drink in Vienna
Like the city itself, Vienna’s gastronomy scene is a fusion of cultures – celebrating its glorious past while still pushing the envelope in innovative and modern interpretations of the classics. While there’s no shortage of great restaurants, the best is undoubtedly unapologetic Vienna, serving up all the flavours (with a savory side) that make the city one of the most eclectic capitals in Europe.
The best things to do in Vienna
As a city rich in culture and history, Vienna has no shortage of things to see and do. For visitors who only have one weekend (long weekend or the other) to explore the city, it’s still possible to experience a snapshot of everything that makes Vienna so special with a little planning and a sense of adventure.
With so much to see and do in Vienna, it can seem like a daunting task for tourists looking to explore in a weekend. However, the city’s walkable liveability and excellent public transport make it easy to see many of the best sights – even in a short (and much shorter) period of time. So whether it’s a planned itinerary or a simple stroll through the city’s cobblestone streets, there are surprises around every corner for travelers looking to experience this fascinating European capital.