Ultimate Itinerary For 24 Hours In Vienna, Austria 2024 (2024)

With some of the finest Baroque architecture in the world, sprawling palaces, lush rose gardens and an irresistible atmosphere, Austria’s capital might be Europe’s best city break destination.

If like me you’re drawn to the allure of Vienna and planning your own trip, then this is the blog for you. I’m sharing my tried and tested itinerary for the best day and night in the city. Including the must-see spots, tastiest restaurants and comfiest stays, plus helpful tips and tricks for first time visitors.

Read on from the top for all the details or use the options below to jump to the sections you’re most interested in!

3. Best time to visit Vienna
6. Best places to stay
8. How much a trip to Vienna costs

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Is Vienna worth visiting & is one day enough?

Vienna is an iconic European city for a reason. Perched on the edge of the Danube River, its central position on the continent has attracted trade, culture and ideas for centuries. Which is why today it’s such a historic and inspiring city packed with some of the most incredible art, architecture, music and more.

So in short, yes it’s definitely worth visiting! But that’s not to say you need weeks here. While Vienna is undoubtably a very beautiful city with a lot to offer, I think you can see the major sights and soak up the atmosphere in a 24 hour stay. If you’re really keen to learn more about the history and art you might want a weekend here to be able to spend time in more galleries and museums. But otherwise I think one day is the perfect first dose of this magical city.

How to get to & around Vienna

Now you know why Vienna is one of the ultimate city breaks, it’s time to start planning your visit, starting with how to get there… The good news is, as Vienna is such a major European destination it’s generally very easy to get to. Here are your options…

By air: The easiest and quickest way to get to Vienna would be to fly. Vienna International Airport has a huge number of direct routes to cities in Europe and across the globe so the chances are you’ll be able to book one simple flight. You can find the full list of direct routes they fly here.

By train: If you’re travelling from neighbouring countries like Slovakia, Hungary or the Czech Republic you also have the option of taking the train which can be a lot cheaper. For instance the train from Slovakia’s capital, Bratislava to Vienna will only take you just over an hour and costs about £10 (book your tickets here). You can find all other train routes and book advance tickets here.

By bus: For travel between neighbouring cities, buses or coaches are also a great option. Again these routes are incredibly affordable and in some cases don’t take much longer than flying. For instance, the bus from Bratislava to Vienna only takes 1.5 hours and tickets cost £7 (book your tickets here). For all other bus routes and advance tickets click here.

When it comes to travelling around Vienna, you’ll be pleased to hear it’s also super easy. With a metro system, trams, buses and overground trains there’s lots of options for getting around. As you can see from the map below, the major sights that I’ve included in this itinerary are also generally very close together and you can walk between them in minutes.

For the couple of spots slightly further out of town, they’re easily reached with the metro and/or tram. For the best value travel during your visit, I’d recommend buying a 24 hour pass which gives you unlimited travel around the centre of Vienna. This only costs €8 compared to €2.40 for a single journey. So even if you only use it for four trips you’ll make your money back!

You can buy 24 hour tickets online here or using the self-service ticket machine at every metro station. Just don’t forget to validate your ticket before you ride! At the self-service machines it will give you the option to validate immediately which I’d recommend, otherwise use the ticket stampers on trains, trams and metro stations.

Best time to visit Vienna

An important consideration while planning your visit is also when to travel. Vienna is a unique destination because it’s great to visit in almost all seasons but for different reasons. So the best time to visit really depends on what you’re looking for.

As you can see from the table below, the amount of rainfall through the year doesn’t really change but the temperature really does. For the best warm summer days perfect for exploring and swimming travel in May and June, or for that full festive feeling, a chance of snow and winter magic visit in November and December.

To avoid the crowds, spring and autumn are also good times to visit. I would just say try not to travel in late July and August if you can as it gets a little too hot and the tourists and prices are at their highest.

Best things to see & do in 24 hours

Now let’s dive into the itinerary, here’s what I’d recommend doing with just one day to explore Vienna…

Feel beauty & power at Justizpalast

To make the most of the day, I’d recommend heading out early to see one of the best free sights in the city – the Palace of Justice (Justizpalast). This is the home of Austria’s Supreme Court and might not sound like the most fun place to visit, but trust me this is a hidden gem for a couple of reasons.

Firstly, it’s a beautiful building built in 1881 and opened by the then Emperor Franz Joseph. The stunning main entrance hall opens up with an elegant glass roof and sweeping staircase like something from a ballroom rather than a courthouse! You can climb the stairs and wander around the balcony for excellent views.

Secondly, it played an important role in history when mass protests broke out in 1927 after what were considered far-right extremists were acquitted of their supposed crimes. Leading to protesters storming the building and setting the stage for the civil war that eventually lead divisions towards Nazi Germany. You can learn more about this history inside the building with a small exhibit in the entrance hall.

As I mentioned, as this is a public building that’s still in use as a courthouse but you can visit for free as a tourist. Just note you’ll just need to have your bag searched and walk through security scanners first, but this only took a minute or two. There’s also a rooftop café if you fancy a coffee stop with views across the historic centre. Learn more and find all the opening hours here.

Climb St. Stephen’s Cathedral’s North Tower

From there, high tail it over to one of the most beautiful spots in the city to beat the crowds. This is St. Stephen’s Cathedral and I’d really recommend getting here as early as you can, as by lunchtime this place is packed.

Construction first began on the cathedral in the 12th century and was modified over the years to suit changing tastes and rebuild after wars. Today it’s known for it’s striking Baroque design, colourful roof tiles featuring the coat of arms of Vienna and its enormous free-swinging bell, Pummerin.

You can enter the main body of the church for free to admire the interior but if you want to see more of the building including the north or south tower, catacombs and the altar then you’ll need to buy an entrance ticket.

I visited the north tower on the recommendation of another travel blog and it was a great way to see more of this incredible building. The north tower gives you the best up close look at the bright patterned roof tiles, a view of the famous Pummerin bell and sweeping scenes across the city. I would say the north tower is a better experience than the south because you’re able to walk around outside the building for better views and you don’t need to climb any stairs. The top of the south tower brings you to a room from which you can look out of a series of windows and although it’s higher up, I think having more unobstructed views is more impressive.

To get to the south tower you have to be able to climb the 343 stairs to the top while the north tower is accessed by a small elevator that takes you straight up and back down. For €7 I would say it’s well worth the entry ticket to see more of the cathedral.

If you’d like to visit other parts of the cathedral, you can find all the ticket prices here or buy a full access pass for €25. Just note, they don’t take card so have enough cash with you ready to pay on-site!

Marvel at majestic Hofburg Palace

From there, wander across to the heart of Vienna’s most impressive state buildings. The centre of which being sprawling Hofburg Palace. This is one of the biggest palace complexes in the world built in the 13th century for the Habsburg dynasty.

Today, it houses multiple museums, collections and the famous Spanish Riding School. There is so much to see and do just in this complex and you could easily spend an entire week just exploring these areas which is why for a single day trip I’d recommend either just appreciating the incredible architecture of the building itself and wandering the grounds or choosing one exhibit to visit.

You can find the full list of museums and all pricing and opening hour details here.

Enter a world of books at the Austrian National Library Grand Hall

Next to Hofburg Palace you’ll find the literary haven that is the Austrian National Library. Within the library is a true gem – the grand hall. As the name suggests this is indeed a very grand space with curving walls lined with antique books, ceiling frescoes, historic globes and classic rolling library stairs.

This is the largest Baroque library in Europe displaying over 200,000 books in the 80 metre long hall. If you love books like me, this is a must visit spot and although you will have to buy a €7 ticket to enter, I’d say it’s worth it. You can find more information and opening hours here, but there’s no need to buy your ticket in advance, you can get it on the door when you visit.

Stroll Volksgarten’s rose garden

After all that history, you’re probably ready for a little rest in the sun. For that wander over to the incredibly pretty Volksgarten. Here you’ll find fountains, manicured lawns and a moving rose garden with each plant dedicated to a lost loved one.

From the garden you’ll also get great views back across to Hofburg Palace and St. Stephen’s Cathedral in the background. So take your time here to sit back and soak up the views, atmosphere and gentle scent of rose in the air!

Admire Austria’s lavish Parliament buildings

After a well earned break (and perhaps a coffee stop – find my recommendations in the next section!) continue on to the very ornate Ancient Greek inspired parliament building. This imposing site was built in 1883 and to this day is one of the most important buildings in Austria.

It’s worth even just stopping by to admire this building from the outside. It really is an impressive sight! But you can also enter the specially created Demokratikum inside for free. Here you’ll learn more about Austrian politics as well as cast your vote on key issues from housing and foreign policy to education and healthcare. You can also join a guided tour of other areas of the building to get a deeper look at democracy in action.

Just note, to enter the building you’ll need to register your ID in advance online or go through a security check when you arrive. You can find all the details and instructions here.

Explore iconic Schloss Schönbrunn

After lunch, take the metro over to one of the most iconic buildings in the city – Schloss Schönbrunn. This imperial residence was built for Habsburg Emperor Ferdinand II in 1642 before being expanded to its current 1,441 rooms by Emperor Franz Joseph and his wife Empress Elisabeth.

Today you can stroll the extensive palace gardens for free and buy tickets to enter various parts of the estate. We chose to just wander the gardens as there’s so much to see there already that we didn’t feel it necessary to to go inside. You can walk all the way up the hill to the classic Gloriette – the beautiful building designed to give the perfect view over the rest of the gardens and palace. It really is the iconic Viennese scene.

If you do want to see inside the palace too – tickets start at €22 per person for a 25 minute tour of the state apartments but you can find details of all available tours, prices and booking details here. If you do decide to venture inside too, of course allow a little more time for your visit. We spent just over an hour in the gardens alone so bear this in mind!

Get city views from Karlskirche

Now, by this point you may have had enough history and architecture for one day. But if you have an appetite for one more incredible building then make your way back towards the centre of the city via Karlskirche.

This 18th century church is not only beautiful from the outside but it has an open panorama terrace giving you incredible views. So why not make a pit stop here on your way to grab dinner to climb the small tower and look out at the city. Tickets cost €9.50 and can be bought on-site or in advance here.

Relax & swim in the Alte Donau (Old Danube)

Finally, it’s time to relax and soak up the relaxed Viennese vibes by taking a dip in the Danube. The most well-loved spot is actually a branch off the Danube so called the ‘Old Danube‘ which is essentially a small lake connected to the river.

Here you’ll find small beach sections, boardwalks and swimming platforms, specific swimming areas and a couple of spots to grab food and drinks. This is a lovely green space where you can take a break from the rush of the city and reflect on your day of exploring.

Best places to eat & drink

To fuel your 24 hours in Vienna, here are my top picks of the best coffee shops, restaurants and ice cream stops…

No Panic Coffee $$

For some of the best coffee in town with views across to stunning Votive Church then No Panic is the one. With plenty of indoor and outdoor seating it’s a great spot to enjoy a high quality delicious barista coffee and watch the world go by. Plus, if you’re in need of a sweet treat, their almond croissants are also incredible!

The Coffee $

For fantastic coffee right in the heart of the city near St. Stephen’s Cathedral then is has to be The Coffee. This fresh and modern coffee bar serves a barista quality brew alongside matcha lattes and a range of mouth-watering cookies. The perfect mid-morning stop!

Waldemar Tagesbar $$

For lunch close to Schloss Schönbrunn, Waldemar is perfect. Just a five minute walk from the palace you’ll find this open and friendly breakfast, brunch and lunch spot serving everything from bircher musli and french toast to club sandwiches and soup. Grab a table in the sun to make the most of the sunshine or head indoors to relax on their comfy seating.

ULRICH $

For breakfast, brunch or lunch in the centre of the city, ULRICH has you covered. Their extensive menu features Austrian classics alongside flavours from around the world so there’s something for everyone. Just note, this does fill up quick so book a table in advance if you can!

Anna’s Schnitzel Stube $

For authentic Austrian schnitzel without the higher price tag, choose incredibly well reviewed Anna’s. Anna herself is often on hand to explain the menu and the different schnitzel variations, providing an excellent service and even better food.

There’s dine-in and takeaway options so you can choose what works best for you and tuck into your hot and crispy schnitzel with tasty sides.

Café Landtmann $$

For the classic Austrian café experience without the same level of crowds as Café Sacher choose Landtmann. This elegant café and restaurant serves all the most-loved Austrian dishes and desserts in luxurious surroundings. So if you fancy treating yourself a little more, this is where I would head.

Würstelstands $

An icon of Vienna is the Austrian hot dog. You can’t come to the city without trying one from the many Würstelstands (hot dog stands) around town. Click the link above to see all of them. As you’ll see some belong to small chains and others are independents. I’d recommend just going for the closest one to you with the best reviews.

Palmenhaus $$

For evening drinks in an incredible location, head to Palmenhaus. This really is a grand palm house that was converted into a brasserie and today you can sip a glass of wine in the historic building surrounded by nature.

This is a restaurant and bar so you could have lunch or dinner here too but I think just a drink is enough to get a feel for the place and stroll the gardens afterwards.

Underdog Bar $$

For some of the best co*cktails (and more hot dogs if you’re still peckish) choose Underdog. They serve delicious fruity co*cktails with flavour blends you probably haven’t tried before. Plus, with outdoor seating to make the most of longer summer evenings and excellent service, what more could you want!

Best places to stay

After a long day of exploring, you’ll be ready to relax in the most comfortable hotels in town. Here are my top picks for every budget…

Budget: Space Home Apartment City Hall (£41 per night)

For those on a tight budget looking for something a little bit different to your run of the mill hostel then Space Home is the one. In a fantastic location in the heart of the city you’ll find these space-age pods complete with flat screen TVs, plush bedding, a fan and towels. You can choose from single or double bed pods with a shared bathroom.

As the pods are all lockable they’re super secure and you don’t need to worry about leaving your luggage while you head out to explore the city. These pods get rave reviews for a reason – they’re super clean, surprisingly cosy and excellent value!

Mid-range: Flemings Selection Hotel (from £132 per night)

For the best value for money, choose classic Flemings. This is where I stayed during my second visit to Vienna and I couldn’t recommend it more. The hotel is perfectly presented, close to all of the major sights and includes little details like bottles of water, snacks, robes and slippers that you don’t normally get at such reasonable prices.

The staff were also super friendly and helpful and overall the hotel is comfortable, spotlessly clean and stylish.

Luxury: Hotel Sans Souci Wien (from £289 per night including breakfast and spa access)

If you’re craving pure luxury look no further than Hotel Sans Souci. Positioned perfectly on the corner of Museumsquartier, this elegant hotel goes above and beyond to offer the most relaxing stay. With stylish comfortable rooms, a full health suite complete with pool, gym and sauna as well as a delicious restaurant, you can be sure of an excellent night’s rest.

Plus, the quality of their service gets stellar reviews and the management team couldn’t be more friendly and welcoming.

What to pack & know before you go

As with a visit to any new city, there will always be things that surprise you and for me Vienna was no different. There are a few things I think it’s helpful to know in advance, so here are my top tips for first time visitors…

Bring a refillable water bottle: Vienna has a brilliant network of public drinking water taps all over the city so there’s no need to buy water to stay hydrated. All you need is a bottle you can fill up along the way. The taps are so frequent you’ll walk past one around every 5 to 10 minutes so you’re never far from your next stop.

Wear light loose clothing for very hot days: In summer, Vienna really does get HOT. When we visited in July it reached 27°C which feels even hotter in a city without as much natural breeze or coast to cool down. So avoid overheating and sunburn by wearing loose light clothing and don’t forget a cap or sunhat and sunglasses! The city also has cold misting stations attached to fire hydrants so head to those to help cool down quicker.

A little German goes a long way: As a German speaking country, English isn’t as widely spoken or understood so come prepared by learning a few key phrases. Even being able to say hello (hallo), good morning (guten morgen), goodbye (tschüss), thanks very much (danke schon), please (bitte) and ordering simple things like ‘ein cappuccino bitte‘ will help you navigate the city and go a long way.

Carry some cash: Lots of smaller shops and cafés in Vienna (and across Austria) don’t take card so come prepared with a bit of cash just in case. Unless you’re headed out for dinner somewhere that’s cash only then €20 is probably enough to carry for ice cream or snacks.

Book ahead when you can: Again, as Vienna is such a busy city and popular destination for travellers, the best restaurants and cafés do fill up quick. So where you can try to book ahead to ensure you don’t miss out!

How much a trip to Vienna costs

That leaves one final question – how much do I need to budget for my Vienna trip? Austria as a whole has a reputation for being a more expensive travel destination but as with anywhere there are ways to bring that cost down. So if you’re on a tight budget making the most of the free attractions I mentioned above and choosing food and accommodation wisely, expect to spend around £80 in 24 hours including hostel and transport.

If you’re wanting to stay in more luxurious hotels and treat yourself to extra experiences and meals out then expect to spend £200 or more.

There we have it, that’s my ultimate itinerary for the most incredible 24 hours in the Austrian capital. I hope you love your time there as much as I did and if you have any questions about visiting Vienna, drop them in the comment box below and I’ll do my best to help. Happy travelling!

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