Vienna, the capital of Austria, is a city steeped in culture, history, and architectural beauty. It is a super popular city for backpackers throughout Europe and somewhere to add to the bucket list. From the impressive palaces to the traditional beer halls, there’s something in Vienna for every type of traveller. This guide will cover everything you need to know to visit Vienna, such as how many days you should spend there, how to get to Vienna and how to get around the city. I’ll also include my own personal tips on places to visit, where to eat and the best backpacker nightlife spots.
How long to spend in Vienna
You could stay between 3-7 days, depending on your interests and budget. If you’re on a smaller budget or are not interested in art galleries and museums, three days in Vienna is more than enough. If you are interested in museums and art galleries, plan which ones to visit and adjust your itinerary according to how many match your interest level. Most travellers won’t spend more than seven days in Vienna, even if they see most major museums and galleries. The other factor to consider is cost. Vienna (but also just generally Austria) is a relatively expensive city to stay, eat out, and sightsee, given that many key sights will have entrance charges. This is a deterrent for many backpackers staying in Vienna longer than a few days.
How to get to Vienna
Nestled in the heart of Europe, it’s not only the cultural but also the geographical crossroads that connect the western and eastern parts of the continent, making it a popular destination for backpackers in Europe. Within Austria, Vienna is well-linked to other major Austrian cities like Graz, Innsbruck, and Salzburg. Vienna is also very easily accessible from many different countries in Europe through direct flights or buses; direct bus services from cities like Budapest, Bratislava, Prague, and Munich make Vienna an easy addition to any Central European travel itinerary.
How to get to Vienna from Graz
From Graz (a smaller city in Austria), travellers can reach Vienna by direct train, which takes about two and a half hours. The ÖBB (Austrian Federal Railways) operates frequent Railjet services, which are fast, comfortable, and offer a scenic journey through the Styrian countryside into the metropolitan heart of Austria. For those on a tighter budget, direct bus services are also available. These buses offer a cheaper yet comfortable alternative, with free WiFi and ample luggage space, making the approximately three-hour journey go by quickly.
How to get to Vienna from Innsbruck
From Innsbruck, a popular tourist city in the west of Austria, direct trains to Vienna run regularly, taking about four to five hours. This route is particularly picturesque, offering views of the Alps and the diverse landscapes of Austria as you travel east to Vienna. Railjet trains provide a high level of comfort with options for first and economy class, catering to different budget levels. Likewise, direct bus services from Innsbruck offer a more economical travel option, though the journey is a bit longer, taking around six hours.
How to get to Vienna from Salzburg
Travellers coming from Salzburg can enjoy a quick and efficient journey to Vienna, with the train taking about two and a half hours on the Railjet or Westbahn trains. These trains frequently run throughout the day, allowing travellers to choose a time that best fits their schedule. Buses from Salzburg in the west of Austria to Vienna are also an option, usually cheaper than trains, with several departures daily that take about three and a half hours.
International Backpacking Routes to Vienna
Vienna is a popular destination to fly into, as its international airport has many direct flight routes from across Europe. Vienna is also very well connected to neighbouring countries by bus from Hungary, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, and Germany. From Bratislava, you can get a bus to Vienna, which takes only 45 minutes, making it a popular transport route, with many travellers even taking a day trip to Vienna from Bratislava.
From Budapest, the bus journey takes around three hours, offering a convenient and budget-friendly option for travellers. These buses have comfortable seating and amenities like onboard bathrooms and WiFi, ensuring a pleasant journey. From Prague, multiple bus companies operate daily routes to Vienna, taking about four hours. This route is popular among backpackers, given its affordability and the scenic beauty of the Bohemian and Moravian countryside. Similarly, direct buses from Munich reach Vienna in approximately four and a half hours, providing another efficient link between these two major cultural cities.
TIP: When travelling by bus or train to Vienna, booking tickets in advance is wise, especially during peak tourist seasons or around major holidays. Look for offers and discounts often available on various bus and train operators’ websites. Additionally, consider investing in a Eurail Pass or an InterFlix Bus Pass if planning multiple journeys across Europe, as these can offer substantial savings and flexibility.
How to get around Vienna
Vienna has an efficient transport network and walkable layout, making it a dream for backpackers wanting to get around quickly, easily and relatively affordably. Whether navigating the city on foot, hopping on public transport, or using Uber and taxis for added convenience, getting around Vienna is straightforward, affordable, and part of the experience.
How to get around Vienna on foot
Walking around Vienna is one of the best ways to soak in its grandeur and charm. The city centre, or Innere Stadt, is compact and brimming with architectural gems like St. Stephen’s Cathedral, the Hofburg Palace, and the State Opera House, all easily reachable on foot. Strolling through Vienna’s streets reveals hidden gems like quaint courtyards, independent bookstores, and bustling outdoor markets. The Ringstrasse, a circular boulevard encircling the historic centre, offers a picturesque walking route with views of Vienna’s most iconic landmarks.
How to get around Vienna by public transport
Vienna’s public transport system is super easy to navigate for longer distances or to give your feet a break. The city has an extensive network of trams, buses, and trains, which are efficient, clean, and affordable. The trams, in particular, are a quintessential Viennese experience, offering a scenic ride through the city while connecting major neighbourhoods and attractions. The subway (U-Bahn) is fast and reliable, making it perfect for reaching places like Schönbrunn Palace or the Prater amusement park. Buses cover areas not serviced by trams or trains and are especially handy in the evenings.
You can purchase tickets for trains, trams, and buses on the tram/bus or at the train station. The ticket machines are really easy to use as you type in your destination, and they automatically calculate how much it will cost based on how many different city zones you are travelling through. If you plan to catch more than two trains, buses or trams in a day, consider getting a 24-hour/48-hour pass. If you’re using public transport multiple times in a day, it’s usually cheaper than purchasing one-way tickets, and it saves time buying tickets for every journey.
How to get around Vienna by Uber/Taxi
If you’re travelling with lots of luggage or venturing out late at night, Uber and taxis are readily available in Vienna. There are heaps of Uber drivers in the city, so it’s relatively quick to find a driver. On the other hand, local taxis can be hailed on the street, found at designated taxi stands near major attractions and transport hubs, or called by phone. Uber and taxis are more expensive than public transport, so most backpackers will avoid using them in Vienna. You can easily get away with using public transport to get everywhere, including from train stations, bus stations and the airport.
What to do in Vienna
Vienna is known for its imperial history, being one of the capitals of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, and its cultural scene and breathtaking architecture. This city combines old-world architecture with a lively contemporary art scene, making it a popular destination for backpackers interested in museums, history, art and culture. From majestic palaces to engaging museums and iconic landmarks, Vienna offers many activities that can be enjoyed even on a tight budget.
Join a free walking tour of the city
You should begin your time in Vienna with a free walking tour to understand more about the fascinating history of Austria and also understand the meaning behind many of the architectural sights. These tours, led by local guides, cover major landmarks and provide historical insights and tips for exploring the city. You can browse and book free walking tours in Vienna on Guru Walk here.
Visit St Stephen’s Cathedral
No exploration of Vienna would be complete without visiting St. Stephen’s Cathedral, the city’s most iconic symbol. This Gothic masterpiece stands proudly in the heart of Vienna and is renowned for its colourful tile roof and towering spire. Entry to the main area of the cathedral is free, although there are fees for accessing the towers and the catacombs.
Visit Belvedere Palace
After your tour, head to Belvedere Palace, a stunning example of Baroque architecture set in beautifully manicured gardens. The palace complex is split into the Upper and Lower Belvedere, with the upper part housing an impressive collection of Austrian art dating from the Middle Ages to the present day, including Gustav Klimt’s famous “The Kiss”. The Upper Belvedere is the most famous and popular section for casual museum-goers. It costs € 17.50 for a ticket to the Upper Belvedere and
€ 14.60 for a ticket to the Lower Belvedere, which can be purchased online or from the ticketing booth (online tends to be slightly cheaper). While there is a fee to enter the museums, wandering the gardens is free and offers fantastic views of the palace’s grand façade and the surrounding city.
Even if you don’t plan on entering either museum, it’s still worth seeing the Palace and the Grounds, which are super impressive. I’d allow 30-60 minutes to enjoy the Palace and the Grounds and 1-2 hours per museum.
Visit Hofburg Palace
No visit to Vienna would be complete without exploring the expansive Hofburg Palace, the former imperial palace that now serves as the official residence of the President of Austria. Here, you can visit several museums, including the Sisi Museum, dedicated to Empress Elisabeth, and the Silver Collection, a testament to the opulence of imperial banquets. You can wander around the parks, courtyards and squares and see the outside of the Palace for free. However, exhibits and museums inside require individual tickets, which usually start from about €19.50 per person per museum.
If you are interested in one of the museums inside or simply want to view the interior of the Palace, you can purchase tickets online or from the ticket booths. However, most travellers enjoy walking through the impressive grounds and looking at the architecture of the Palace from the outside, which is entirely free. I would allow around 60-90 minutes to walk around the grounds and enjoy the architecture and around 45 minutes per museum or exhibit on the side of the Palace.
Explore Schonbrunn Palace
Another must-see attraction is Schönbrunn Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Vienna’s most visited attractions. While entry to the palace requires a ticket, you can freely explore the vast gardens, including a maze, the Gloriette with its stunning city views, and the world’s oldest zoo. However, if you have the budget and the interest, it is worth paying the entrance fee to see the State Rooms, including a free audio guide. The State Rooms are stunning but cost € 22.00 per person for the most basic ticket. I would allow around 60-90 minutes to explore Schonbrunn Palace (30 minutes for the State Rooms and audio guide and 1 hour to explore the grounds).
Explore some architectural gems
Visiting the Austrian Parliament Building is a must for those interested in architecture. The building is an impressive example of Neo-Classical architecture, complete with Greek columns and statues. While guided tours are available for a small fee, viewing the building from the outside is free, and you can be well worth it, even if you’re not an architecture buff. Another architectural gem is Palais Kinsky, a beautiful Baroque palace in the Freyung square. Known for its exquisite frescoed ceilings and fine art auctions, it’s a lesser-known spot but popular for photographers or even an Instagram photoshoot.
Visit some of the many museums of Vienna
If you love museums, the MuseumsQuartier should be on your itinerary. This cultural complex is home to modern art museums like the Leopold Museum and MUMOK (Museum of Modern Art Ludwig Foundation Vienna) and spaces for contemporary art. The Museum of Art History, or Kunsthistorisches Museum, is another top spot for art lovers. It houses an extensive collection of works from the Habsburgs, including masterpieces by Raphael, Titian, and Rembrandt and an impressive assortment of ancient and classical artifacts. You could easily spend multiple days here depending on how many museums you are interested in visiting. However, each museum has its own entrance cost and visiting multiple museums can be costly.
Walk the famous Ring Road
Another great free activity in Vienna is walking along Ring Road, or Ringstraße, which circles the inner city. This grand boulevard has some of Vienna’s (and Austria in general) most significant buildings, including the State Opera House, the Burgtheater, and several museums and palatial residences. Walking the entirety of the Ring Road takes around three hours, but you could easily combine walking with public transport like trams to see all the sights on the Ring Road in around 60-90 minutes.
Visit Prater Park
Another iconic sight to visit in Vienna! Prater Park is a massive public amusement park just a short ride from the city centre from the city centre. Visiting is free, but rides and other attractions cost between €3.00 to €6.00 per ride. There’s also the famous beer hall Schweizerhaus inside Prater Park, which is a fun place to visit for dinner or even just a stein of Austrian beer in the bustling restaurant. You can visit Prater Park during the day; however, it is more lively at night and a great free night activity.
Where to eat in Vienna
For backpackers venturing through Vienna, the city offers an array of dining experiences that range from traditional beer halls to unique cafes. While eating out in Vienna (and Austria in general) can be costly, you should try to balance cooking at your hostel with eating out so you get to try some of the local cuisines.
Schweizerhaus
The iconic Schweizerhaus in Prater Park is a famous establishment that is a must-visit for its lively atmosphere, huge beers and traditional Austrian foods. Known mainly for its Stelze (pork knuckle) and a wide selection of beers, Schweizerhaus offers a rustic dining experience perfect for those wanting a cultural experience and a meal. There’s a large beer garden as well as beer halls, so it shouldn’t be an issue getting a seat, but be warned, it’s a super popular spot, so it will be busy with waiters bustling around carrying huge steins of beer.
Conditorie Sluka
Another must-visit is Conditorie Sluka, located near Rathausplatz. This cafe is both a legendary pastry and a cultural experience, as the shop dates back to 1891. This café serves some of the best traditional Viennese pastries, including Sachertorte and Apfelstrudel.
Café Hawelka
Café Hawelka, another famous institution, is tucked away in the centre of Vienna and has historically been a hub for artists, writers, and intellectuals since 1939. This café is famous for its traditional Viennese coffee and freshly baked Buchteln – sweet buns served with plum compote.
Reinthaler’s Beisl
For a more hearty dining experience, Reinthaler’s Beisl is a gem located near the city’s centre. It is known for its authentic Austrian dishes, which are reasonably priced. This small, traditional Beisl (bistro) is where you can try traditional dishes like Wiener Schnitzel, Goulash, and Tafelspitz. After a day of sightseeing, it’s a great dinner spot, but be warned, it is incredibly popular, so you may have to wait for a table.
Buffet Trzesniewski in Dorotheergasse
Buffet Trzesniewski in Dorotheergasse is another famous Viennese eatery known for its open-faced sandwiches. This eatery is a favourite among locals and tourists for a quick, inexpensive bite. They come with various toppings, from traditional liverwurst to more contemporary ingredients. The compact, standing-room-only space is typical of old Viennese snack bars, so it’s perfect for a lunch on the go.
Vienna Nightlife
When thinking of bustling nightlife, Vienna, often revered for its imperial past and classical music, might not immediately come to mind. Yet, the city has a decent nightlife scene that caters excellently to backpackers, students, and budget travellers. Gürtel and the 7th District areas have a lot of bars and clubs that offer backpacker-friendly prices. Another favourite among young travellers is Travel Shack Vienna, primarily a backpacker bar. It’s famous for its international crowd, themed party nights, and infamous “Shack Shots”. After the bars, head to Flex, one of Vienna’s most famous clubs on the Danube Canal, with student-friendly prices, a large dancefloor and techno music.
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