Vienna’s top highlights: 5 must-see places

Austria

The City of Music awaits you! With an average of 15 million visitors annually, Vienna is full of monuments and attractions that promise to make your visit an unforgettable experience.

To explore the city comfortably and at your own pace, hiring a car in Vienna is an excellent option. At CarJet, you can find the cheapest car hire deals on the market with just a few clicks. Having your own vehicle allows you the freedom to create and adjust your itinerary as you please. To help you make the most of your trip, we've compiled a guide to Vienna’s top 5 must-see places. Let’s dive in!

When is the best time to visit Vienna?

Vienna is captivating in every season! Each time of year offers a unique charm, making it a destination for all seasons. For those seeking mild weather and fewer crowds, spring and autumn are ideal. In spring, Vienna’s gardens burst into bloom, breathing life into the city, while in autumn, the warm hues of the foliage and seasonal treats like roasted chestnuts and young wine create a cosy, magical atmosphere.

Summer is perfect for culture enthusiasts, with countless festivals, outdoor concerts, and cultural events on offer. However, prices tend to be higher, and the city can get quite busy. In winter, Vienna transforms into a wonderland of Christmas markets and dazzling lights. The festive decorations create a storybook-like setting, making it an enchanting time to visit.

Top 5 must-see sights in Vienna

Now that you've decided when to travel to Vienna, all you need to know is where to go. With its imperial history, artistic wealth, and unique charm, the City of Music offers a wealth of treasures to discover. Here are the 5 must-see places you can't miss during your visit to the Austrian capital .

Schönbrunn Palace

Schönbrunn Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of Vienna's most iconic monuments and a must-see destination for any visitor. Built in the 18th century, this magnificent example of Baroque architecture was the summer residence of the Habsburg imperial family and reflects the splendour of its time. We recommend you visit the palace to discover the beauty of the imperial apartments and also its gardens, which are often compared to those of Versailles for their elegance.

The palace is open daily from 8:30 am to 5:30 pm, while the gardens can be visited from 6:30 am to 5:30 pm, although opening hours may vary depending on the season. Admission to the palace is approximately €32 per adult and €23 per child. It is advisable to book tickets in advance to avoid long queues, especially during the high season.

St. Stephen's Cathedral in Vienna

St. Stephen's Cathedral, known as Stephansdom, is a must-see on your sightseeing list. This Gothic cathedral, whose construction dates back to the 12th century, stands in the heart of the city and is famous for its colourful glazed tiled roof. Every year, more than 5 million tourists visit the cathedral to admire its architectural beauty.

You can admire its interior, which will leave a lasting impression. For a panoramic view of the city, climb one of the two towers: the south tower, accessible after 343 steps, ideal for the more adventurous, or the north tower, which houses the famous 'Pummerin' bell. Don't miss the catacombs, where significant figures from Austrian history are buried.

The Hofburg Palace and the Sissi Museum

To continue with your visits, the Hofburg Palace and the Sissi Museum, dedicated to Empress Elisabeth of Austria, are excellent options, as they are located in the centre of the capital. We suggest you dedicate a morning or an entire afternoon, as the visit usually lasts around four hours. It is the perfect opportunity to learn more about the history of Austria and the city.

The Sissi Palace and Museum are open daily from 9:00 to 17:30. Combined admission costs around €15, with reduced rates for students and children.

Ópera Estatal de Viena

The Vienna State Opera (Wiener Staatsoper) is one of the most iconic and prestigious theatres in the world—a must for classical music lovers. Opened in 1869, the opera house offers a diverse programme that attracts more than 2.5 million spectators every year. Its cultural and architectural richness make it a unique place, ideal for all kinds of audiences. Guided tours allow you to immerse yourself in its past and discover the secrets of one of Vienna's most emblematic sites.

If you want to see a performance, we recommend booking your tickets in advance, as they tend to sell out quickly.

The Kunsthistorisches Museum (Art History Museum)

Finally, we recommend the Kunsthistorisches Museum, one of the most important museums in the world, which houses an impressive collection of art from Antiquity to the Renaissance. Among its most notable works are paintings by great masters such as Raphael, Titian, Rembrandt, and Velazquez, making it an essential visit for art lovers.

It's located on Maria-Theresien-Platz, where you can also visit other museums in Vienna, such as the Naturhistorisches Museum (Natural History Museum).

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