30 Little Gems in Old Town Vienna (See Them on a Map)

Truth: you could easily spend three or four days in Vienna just sightseeing.

In Old Town Vienna (Innere Stadt) alone, within the perimeter of Ringstrasse, a single day might not be enough to wander and see all the beautiful landmarks, historical sites, and intriguing museums! Believe it or not, that’s still the case even if we exclude the landmarks you’ll encounter during a walking tour of Ringstrasse or the architectural wonders in the city.

Indeed, there’s an overwhelming amount to see! For instance, these 30 lesser-known attractions or hidden gems I discovered in Vienna, which I’ll share with you today.

If you’re looking to uncover even the smallest intriguing details of Vienna or if you’re aiming to do something unique in Vienna, these attractions/city features are ideal for you to visit. I’ve included a map of these minor attractions in Old Town Vienna for you to conveniently find them.

Do you find trip planning a bit overwhelming, or are you seeking in-depth knowledge and cultural insights into Old Town Vienna? This top-rated Vienna Guided Walking Tour of the City Center Highlights is perfect for you! For a unique experience, consider the Vienna Spooky Ghost Tour. And for an exploration you’re sure to enjoy, our partner-certified 2-hour Historical Sightseeing Tour of Vienna is worth considering. For more amazing experiences in Vienna, this list is a must see.

Old Town Vienna Map

In summary, the sites displayed on these maps of Vienna are distinguished by their architectural beauty and historical importance. They include unique spots and museums associated with Mozart, Beethoven, the Holocaust, and more.

Below are three maps: (1) a comprehensive map of Old Town Vienna highlighting the locations of 30 lesser-known attractions; (2) a zoomed-in map of Old Town Vienna showing the points of interest near the Danube Canal; (3) another close-up map of Old Town Vienna, revealing the hidden gems in parts of the Old Town Vienna away from the Danube Canal.

Jump into the description of each attraction by clicking their names.

Old Town Vienna’s 30 Unique Things to Do (Little Gems)

If you’re short on time and can’t see everything in Old Town Vienna, you might want to focus on visiting the churches, palaces, and old government buildings. Also, don’t miss out on the beautiful sights on the streets like fountains, clocks, and scenic views.

For the palaces, don’t miss out on the Daun-Kinsky Palace and the Liechtenstein City Palace. As for the churches, be sure to visit Annakirche, Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church, Maria Rotunda Catholic Church, and the Jesuit Church. Other beautiful sights include the Old City Hall (Altes Rathaus), the Anker Clock (Ankeruhr), the Vienna Plague Column (Wiener Pestsäule), and Kohlmarkt, a very scenic street.

Tip: Look for four small Austrian flags hanging on the facade of some of these lesser-known attractions in Vienna. They’ll help you identify these hidden gems as you stroll through the historic center.

The list below is organized in the order corresponding to the numbers on the map. All the details about each attraction are conveniently linked and compiled in the resources section of this post for easy reference.

1. Alte Börse

While it seems you’ll see stunning architecture wherever you look in Old Town Vienna, some buildings just stand out. Amazingly, their exteriors aren’t the only eye-catching features. Step inside and you’ll treat your eyes to elegance and grandeur.

One beautiful example is Alte Börse, or the Old Stock Exchange, with its gorgeous Viennese neo-Renaissance style. You can find it along the Schottenring of Ringstrasse. Today, it hosts private institutions and events. Unfortunately, as far as I know, it’s not possible to tour inside on your own, which is a letdown.

However, concerts also take place here, specifically in Festsaal — the architectural highlight of Alte Börse’s interiors. The concert is an opportunity to see its interiors. Most importantly, it accomplishes two things: pleasing the ears and the eyes.

This is where you can check for concert tickets in various places in Vienna, including those at Alte Börse.

2. Schottenkirche

If you plan to visit the Kunsthistorisches Museum before exploring the beautiful lesser-known attractions in Old Town Vienna, you might already be familiar with Schottenkirche.

Freyung, the square where Schottenkirche is located, is depicted in a beautiful painting in the museum. This painting, created by Bernardo Bellotto, clearly shows Schottenkirche dominating the square’s view with its tower.

However, Due to Vienna’s turbulent past, such as the Turkish wars, Schottenkirche no longer retains its original appearance. You’ll notice this if you compare Bellotto’s painting to the actual view of the church from Freyung.

On the bright side, the interiors of Schottenkirche have been breathtakingly restored in a mix of Neo-Renaissance and Neo-Baroque styles. The beauty you’ll encounter inside, particularly the glass mosaic of the Virgin Mary on the altar and the intricate stucco work everywhere, is one reason why this church is a gem in Vienna.

3. Maria am Gestade Catholic Church

Did you know that, apart from Karlskirche, there are more architecturally interesting churches in Vienna?

One of them is the Maria am Gestade Catholic Church, which stands out for its tall and narrow design. Its 56-meter high openwork tower, styled in Gothic scrollwork, is a unique sight to behold. With its tower, you can easily distinguish this church from a distance.

Another two features that make this church a gem in Old Town Vienna are the beautiful stained glass windows in its choir and the intricate lacy stonework of the altar, which is quite eye-catching.

If you’re a history buff, Maria am Gestade has an interesting fact to offer: it’s been standing since the mid-12th century. Yes, it’s one of the oldest churches in Vienna and was the place where sailors of the Danube River used to pray.

You can find the Maria am Gestade Catholic Church at Salvatorgasse 12. The nearest bus stop is Schwertgasse.

4. Museum Judenplatz

Interestingly enough, Vienna hasn’t just been a home for Christians, but also for a community of Jews. As you wander through the Old Town, you’ll come across various monuments, landmarks, and even a museum that narrate their tale.

For instance, if you visit Judenplatz — the heart of the Jewish neighborhood in Vienna — you’ll find the Museum Judenplatz. It showcases the religious, cultural, and social living conditions of the Jews in Vienna throughout history, stretching back to the medieval ages.

In my opinion, this museum is a gem for those wanting to discover a part of Vienna’s history from a different perspective.

The most interesting part of the museum? It’s the excavated remains of a medieval synagogue that once stood in Judenplatz. The exhibition includes augmented reality features, giving you an idea of what it looked like when the synagogue was still standing.

5. Holocaust Memorial

As a human being, I find the Holocaust Memorial in Judenplatz to be one of Vienna’s most moving monuments.

This site, also known as the Nameless Library, is dedicated to the 65,000 Austrian Jews who were killed during the Holocaust. The design of the memorial? It effectively conveys their heartrending story.

From afar, it simply looks like a concrete block.

But upon closer inspection, you’ll see the details: The outer surface of the monument features shelves of books with their spines turned inward, symbolizing the countless stories that were never told. The doors of the library remain closed, symbolizing the inaccessibility of these untold stories.

6. Kirche am Hof

Kirche am Hof stands out as another architecturally fascinating church in Vienna’s Old Town, boasting a blend of styles. Its exterior is Baroque, the interior Gothic, and the choir? It’s Neoclassical. The Rococo stucco work on its three-aisled nave further enhances its charm.

While it may not be as breathtaking as other churches in Old Town, like the Peterskirche with its grand Baroque interiors, it certainly possesses an elegance that offers a serene and beautiful experience.

The fascinating aspect of Kirche am Hof lies not only in its architecture but also in its rich history.

The church’s terrace served as the place for Pope Pius VI’s Easter blessing to Emperor Joseph II. Also, it has welcomed two modern-day pontiffs, Pope John Paul II and Pope Benedict XVI, who have both graced its platform.

7. Altes Rathaus

Along Wipplingerstraße lies another notable, yet lesser-known site in Vienna — the Old Town Hall, or Altes Rathaus.

It is the place which when you visit, you can picture some of the city’s most pivotal historical events, such as the execution of Franz III. Nádasdy and Vienna’s March Revolution in the mid-19th century.

While it no longer serves as the seat of city government, it still maintains its dignified presence with architecture that features elements of Gothic and Baroque styles.

Beyond its architecture, two other compelling reasons to visit Altes Rathaus during your trip to Vienna are the Inner City Local History Museum and the Documentation Center of Austrian Resistance.

The museum preserves the development of the city, its culture, and significant events. Meanwhile, the Documentation Center offers insights into Austria’s history from the establishment of the First Republic onwards.

8. Ankeruhr

Like most European cities, Vienna boasts its own beautiful clock that fascinates every visitor. In Vienna, it’s known as the Ankeruhr. Where can you find it? This clock is situated in Hoher Markt, where it spans like a bridge, connecting two parts of the Anker Insurance Company’s buildings.

It was created by the aforementioned insurance company, hence its name. Of course, there’s commercial intent behind building the Ankeruhr. Anker constructed it to underscore the importance of insurance, using allegorical motifs to symbolize the passage of time and human existence.

Visit the Ankeruhr at noontime, and you’ll witness a parade of historical figures within the clock, accompanied by music. You’ll see representations of Marcus Aurelius, Charlemagne, Maximilian I, Maria Theresa, Prince Eugene of Savoy, and more.

It’s a pretty spectacular little show, although I find the clocks from other cities, mechanically crafted back in the Middle Ages, more impressive. For instance, the Zytglogge, one of the beautiful landmarks of Bern, Switzerland.

9. Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church

Vienna is full of architectural surprises, often in the form of churches. I shouldn’t be surprised, given Vienna’s reputation for beautiful architecture, but the Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church just did surprise me with its spectacular interiors.

Its Byzantine Revival architecture is enchanting and unlike anything I’ve seen before in Vienna. From the intricately detailed walls to the massive chandelier and the profoundly valuable artworks throughout the sanctuary, you’re sure to feel a spiritually uplifting atmosphere.

In fact, its exterior, visible from Fleischmarkt, is quite distinctive. The two-tone brickwork and gilded archways should catch your eye without fail as you step into the market square.

Today, this church serves not only as an architectural treasure in Vienna but also as a historical beacon: It symbolizes the religious freedom granted by the Patent of Toleration, issued by Joseph II, Holy Roman Emperor, in 1781.

10. Mozarthaus

After visiting St. Stephen’s Cathedral, you can immediately visit another lesser-known yet interesting place in Vienna: Mozarthaus. Previously known as the Camesina House, this place along Domgasse is where Mozart lived in the late 18th century after moving from Salzburg.

Mozart was born in an apartment Salzburg, which is now also a museum called Mozart’s Birthplace.

Today, Mozarthaus in Vienna is also a museum; a gem for travelers who are fans of this great musician.

It has four floors, containing information about Mozart’s life and work in Vienna, and details about his family. You can find musical instruments, uniform, and documents of Mozart, as well as interactive displays providing deeper insights into his life.

However, the current setup of the museum does not reflect the setup of Mozart’s room back in his time, which I think it should. On the flip side, the museum also hosts special events like classical concerts, lectures, and workshops that provide a richer experience to anyone interested.

11. Jesuit Church

Even if we exclude the palaces and government buildings, Vienna remains a paradise for beauty seekers and architecture enthusiasts. The city’s churches, such as the Jesuit Church or the University Church, never disappoint.

This early-17th-century Baroque religious building, while appearing quite simple from the outside, is a visual feast on the inside. Not a single inch of the church is left unadorned. As you wander inside the church, taking in the gilded stucco work, colorful frescoes, and even the pews, you get the impression that you’re exploring God’s palace.

What sets the Jesuit Church apart are the illusionary painting techniques used in the church’s artworks.

You must see the remarkable trompe-l’œil dome, painted on a flat part of the ceiling along the nave. It’s truly impressive, giving the church additional visual space and dimension from certain viewpoints. If you visit Innsbruck before Vienna, the technique should remind you of Innsbruck Cathedral.

Jesuit Church is situated on Dr. Ignaz Seipel-Platz, immediately adjacent to the old University of Vienna buildings.

12. Katholische Kirche Maria Rotunda (Dominican Church)

The Katholische Kirche Maria Rotunda is another church in Vienna that will leave you speechless with its ornate beauty.

Similar to Salzburg Cathedral, the stucco work that is everywhere in the interior of this church is a play of shapes and shadows. It creates a divine dramatic scenes that everyone would love to behold. When you explore its interior, don’t forget to check the side chapels, which are adorned with beautiful wrought iron grills with gilded leaf-like ornamentation.

If you’re a Catholic like me, I believe this church will also inspire you to pray, particularly when you contemplate the paintings inside. Forty-six of them depict scenes from the life of Our Lady, which tell a great deal about obedience to God.

Actually, travelers who have been to Italy might find the architecture of Katholische Kirche Maria Rotunda quite familiar. Its facade is reminiscent of the Roman-Lombardic style, very similar to Santa Maria Novella in Florence.

Katholische Kirche Maria Rotunda, located along Postgasse, is also known as the Dominican Church.

13. Alte Stadtmauer Stubentor

Did you know that Vienna once had a medieval wall encircling its Old Town? It was built in the 1200s but was taken down in the 19th century as walls became outdated.

Today, the Ringstrasse has replaced the wall. However, you can still find small remnants of it while exploring the Old Town. One such remnant is the Stubentor (tower), located at Doktor-Karl-Leuger-Platz. While the tower no longer stands, its remains are now part of a station on Line U3 of the Vienna U-Bahn.

Outside the station, you can find a model of Old Town Vienna, showing what the wall looked like when it still stood around the city.

14. Wien Museum Beethoven Pasqualatihaus

There’s a reason why Vienna is called the City of Music. Many of the Western canon’s greatest composers spent a significant amount of time in Vienna, and their legacy continues to resonate in the city even today.

Like you can check out this list of concerts in Vienna; they’re held in every beautiful corner of the city!

Aside from Mozart, another composer who contributed to Vienna’s musical legacy is Ludwig van Beethoven. If you’re curious about his life in Vienna, a lesser-known attraction in the city is the place to visit: the Wien Museum Beethoven Pasqualatihaus.

This museum was Beethoven’s apartment for eight years and is now home to a compact biographical exhibition about the musical genius. Interestingly, it was in this place that he composed his famous piano piece “Für Elise,” and the original manuscript of this piece is housed in this museum.

You can find Wien Museum Beethoven Pasqualatihaus in Moelker Bastei 8, near Universitätsring of Ringstrasse.

15. Palais Daun-Kinsky

When you visit Schottenkirche in Freyung, you’ll find that Palais Daun-Kinsky is just a short stroll away. This palace, dating back to the 18th century, is one of Vienna’s most impressive.

If you’re looking to attend a concert in Vienna, Palais Daun-Kinsky is a venue you should consider. It’s a magnificent example of Baroque splendor in Vienna, and without a doubt, it’s one of the most beautiful places to attend a concert in the city.

You’ll get that impression even before you enter this magnificent Baroque palace, thanks to its intriguing facade and ornate door! From the looks of it, you can also say that it’s one of the most important palaces in the city center.

And wait until you see the breathtaking fresco above the main staircase and all the stucco work and ornate decorations everywhere. Something memorable indeed awaits inside.

Yet, the beauty doesn’t end at the staircase. There’s more to behold, like its most impressive artwork called the “Window to Heaven,” painted on the ceiling of the Ovaler Saal (hall).

16. Stadtpalais Liechtenstein

If you’re looking to experience a complete Baroque marvel in Vienna without attending a concert, Stadtpalais Liechtenstein is the place to go.

This palace, situated along Bankgasse and representing Vienna’s finest example of High Baroque architecture, is open to the public through guided tours. Prince Johann Adam Andreas I von Liechtenstein, who bought this palace in the 17th century, ensured that its interior is lavish — certain to leave visitors in awe.

From the ceiling to the curtains, every corner is adorned with beautifully designed rococo elements. I was particularly impressed by the massive chandeliers and the ceiling, decorated with gilded stucco!

What’s even more remarkable about this palace is that the tour also allows you to view some of the masterpieces from the princely collections, including some of the finest artworks. Interestingly, the collection features major works of European art, ranging from the early Renaissance to the Biedermeier era.

The tour is conducted in German, but an English audio guide is provided.

17. Theseustempel

The parks in Vienna’s Old Town are always full of new discoveries. For instance, if you visit the scenic Volksgarten, you’ll come across the Theseus Temple (or Theseustempel), which I consider to be another hidden gem in the city.

Constructed between 1819 and 1823 by Peter von Nobile, it’s a replica of the ancient Greek temple of Hephaestus in Athens. Initially, it was designed to house an incredible marble sculpture, “Theseus Defeats the Centaur,” by Antonio Canova.

However, after about seventy years, they relocated the sculpture to the Kunsthistorisches Museum.

Today, the temple hosts temporary exhibitions of contemporary art. The best part? It’s free to enter! The exhibitions rotate annually, so you’re always in for a surprise. The last time I was there, I saw an artwork made of plastic that resembled an ocean. It was quite amazing!

18. Wiener Minoritenkirche

As you may already know, Vienna is home to some uniquely designed churches. The Wiener Minoritenkirche is another one we can add to that list! Just take a look at the structure of the church from the back.

The Minoritenkirche is also unique for its long history and its association with the monastic Order of Friars Minor Conventual monks.

What’s really cool about this church is its French Gothic style. It’s like stepping into a piece of France right in the heart of Austria. The entrance of the church follows a French pattern, which is pretty uncommon for Austria.

Inside the church, there’s a life-sized copy of Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper. It’s not just any copy, however, it’s a mosaic made by Giacomo Raffaelli and was commissioned by Napoleon I in 1809. There’s also a Neo-Gothic high altar made by Ferdinand Hohenberg. Take note of the stained glass behind the organ. It’s picture-perfect!

You can find this church northwest of the Hofburg, at the Minoritenplatz.

19. Globe Museum of the Austrian National Library

If you’re a curious explorer, eager to discover how people in the past depicted other places, the Globe Museum of the Austrian National Library is a must-see.

It’s a simple yet unique experience: you’ll gaze upon tens of tens of globes in various forms and designs. There are globes featuring animals, zodiac signs, constellations, and more! Globes of the moon and other celestial bodies are also included. Perhaps, they used these to predict eclipses and the movement of planets in our solar system.

Yes — the globes here aren’t just about land and sea. Interestingly, I found a globe where California isn’t connected to the mainland US, which is somewhat odd. And overall, you can see more than 200 globes. But, if there’s something you shouldn’t miss, it’s these: The terrestrial globe of Gemma Frisius and the globe by Gerard Mercator, both from the mid-16th century.

Another reason to visit the museum is because of its location: it’s housed in Palais Mollard-Clary, one of the beautiful palaces in the city. You should be able to spot this museum and palace while strolling along Herrengasse near Hofburg.

20. Kohlmarkt

For stunning photography opportunities in Vienna, Kohlmarkt is a fantastic place to explore.

This street, which extends from Michaelerplatz to Graben, is where you can view the St. Michael Wing of Hofburg, flanked by beautiful buildings and shops. The St. Michael Wing is an architectural highlight of Hofburg, with its magnificent dome and allegorical sculptures.

Kohlmarkt is also an excellent place for luxury and window shopping in Vienna. In fact, it’s known as Vienna’s luxury shopping street due to the presence of international fashion labels and numerous jewelry stores. I’m not much of a shopper, so I can’t recall everything I’ve seen here. However, a few that come to mind are Salvatore Ferragamo and Fendi.

If you want to experience the café culture of Vienna, the iconic Demel Café is located on Kohlmarkt.

21. Graben

Planning a trip to Vienna during Christmas? You simply can’t miss Graben.

This gem is the most dazzling street in Vienna, especially when it comes to Christmas lights and decorations. You’ll be strolling under twinkling lights, surrounded by stunning architecture – it’s truly magical. Just picture the scene with snow! It’s so lovely.

Even on regular days, Graben remains fantastic. Like Kohlmarkt, it’s a prime spot for shopping and window shopping amidst beautiful landmarks and buildings. I’ve noticed a plethora of international and luxury brands here, from Swatch to Hermès and Louis Vuitton, which is situated at the far end of the street from Stephansplatz.

For explorers like me who love to admire beautiful buildings, Graben has plenty to offer. Just stand in front of the Louis Vuitton shop for a striking view!

You might also enjoy people-watching here in Graben while savoring some of Vienna’s finest coffee.

22. Wiener Pestsäule

Another reason to visit Graben is that it’s home to the Wiener Pestsäule, also known as the Plague Column or Trinity Column.

This is one of the most beautiful and intricate monuments in Vienna. It’s quite tall, standing at 69 feet, and is designed in the Baroque style, which is incredibly detailed and ornate.

What’s so fascinating about the Wiener Pestsäule is the story it tells about Vienna’s past: It shows that the city faced numerous challenges, like the plague and the Second Siege of Vienna by the Ottomans. But through faith and the leadership of Emperor Leopold I, they were able to overcome these hardships. It’s a symbol of Vienna’s resilience.

By the way, the column was built following the Great Plague in 1679.

23. Jewish Museum of the City of Vienna

The Judenplatz Museum is just one location in Vienna where you can learn a great deal about Jewish history.

In fact, it’s only just a part of the Jewish Museum of the City of Vienna, which another notable place in the city that offers more extensive exhibits about Jewish culture. It is the museum that narrates a comprehensive story of Vienna’s Jewish community, from its inception in the city to the present day.

One of the highlights of the museum is its collection of Judaica objects: antique menorah, a large mezuzah, and a Hebrew clock. These were preserved from synagogues all over Austria during the Holocaust. The relationship of Vienna, as a city, with the Jews is also well discussed in this museum.

Overall, I’m impressed by how meticulously the museum’s exhibits are curated and researched! Considering all that you can learn about Jewish history here, we can say that it is a place that everyone should visit at least once, especially if you’re a history enthusiast.

You can find the Jewish Museum of the City of Vienna at Dorotheergasse 11.

24. Mozart Monument

Did you know that there are more than 40 monuments scattered throughout the Old Town alone? They’re primarily located in the city parks and gardens, where they serve as beautiful reminders of the city’s rich heritage.

One particularly striking monument is the Mozart Monument in Burggarten, situated behind the Neue Burg of Hofburg. It’s also one of the most beautiful monuments I discovered in Vienna, alongside the statues of Prince Eugene and Archduke Karl in Heldenplatz, as well as the statue of Maria Theresa situated between the Naturhistorisches and Kunsthistorisches Museums.

Standing 7.5 meters tall, the statue of Mozart is very detailed, and his monument is heavily adorned, particularly the base. The base is decorated with ornaments, masks, and wreaths and is framed within a semi-circular balustrade made of rough marble from Sterzing.

There’s not much to do here other than to appreciate Mozart and his monument, and perhaps take a selfie as it’s an iconic spot in Vienna. When you take pictures, don’t forget to include the G-Clef in front of the statue! It should make your photo extra unique.

25. Imperial Crypt (Kapuzinergruft)

Among all the attractions I’ve mentioned, the Imperial Crypt is the most unusual and perhaps one of the sights in Vienna that can make your trip to the city unique.

In essence, the Imperial Crypt has served as the main burial site for the members of the House of Habsburg. A visit offers the chance to stand within arm’s reach of Austria’s most significant figures like Maximilian I, Maria Theresa, Franz Stephans, and of course, Empress Elisabeth or Sisi.

Well, of course, they’re already deceased, but you get my drift.

In total, there are 145 remains of Habsburg royalty here, including 12 emperors and 18 empresses.

More importantly, if you’re not keen on encountering the deceased up close, a visit to the Imperial Crypt provides an opportunity to see some of the most exquisite coffins ever crafted. They are literally works of art. Breathtaking works of art!

Some of the coffins, although they appear eerie, are incredibly spectacular with their detailed decoration. The statues and reliefs adorning the coffins are eye-catching. Believe it or not, some that you’ll see are made of highly valuable materials like bronze, silver, and gold. Even the rooms, where some of the coffins are stored, are works of art.

If you wish to visit, you can find the Imperial Crypt at Tegetthoffstrasse 2.

26. Theatermuseum

The Theatermuseum is another gem in Vienna; a museum that you won’t regret visiting if you love the performing arts. This museum, located on Lobkowitzplatz, houses some of the most significant collections related to theater. From costumes to stage designs, and props to drawings and graphics, there’s a wealth of discoveries to be made.

As a wanderer and seeker of beauty, the highlight of visiting the Theatermuseum is the Eroica Hall, with its breathtaking early 18th-century fresco on the ceiling. It should take your breath away!

However, stepping into the shoes of a theater enthusiast, perhaps the puppet collection on the first floor and the technology used to animate them would be the most amazing part. The attention to detail in creating the stage and set models for these puppets is incredible.

I think they’ll also love the costume collection, exhibits about Mozart, the Bosch art exhibition, and more. Some people say that the main reason to visit is to see Bosch’s ‘The Last Judgement.’

Overall, there are around 600 costumes, 1,000 stage models, and hundreds of thousands of photos, graphics, and drawings awaiting a theater fan at the Theatermuseum.

27. Albrechtsbrunnen

While exploring the area around Hofburg to look for more breathtaking architecture, I discovered Albrechtsbrunnen.

This fountain near Albertina is probably one of the most beautiful fountains in Vienna (another is Minervabrunnen near the Museum of Applied Arts). It was a head turner, and definitely a small architectural marvel. I marvel at it like for a few minutes while wondering what is the significance of this fountain.

And after researching I found out that it indeed has some historical significance and symbolism: This fountain stands as a tribute to the grandeur of the empire, underscoring the connection between Vienna, the Danube, and its various tributaries. The central figure, Danubius, is surrounded by tritons and Vindobona, who represents Vienna.

Each figure, crafted from the famous Carrara marble, is reminiscent of renowned sculptures like Michelangelo’s David.

28. Mozart Death House

For those who are fans of Mozart and wish to gain insights into his entire life, your journey can culminate at the site where he breathed his last. This is the house (as shown in the picture) where Mozart passed away. It’s situated at Rauhensteingasse 8. However, the original structure no longer stands. In its stead, you’ll find a memorial plaque and a department store.

29. Annakirche

If you thought you’ve seen all the beautiful churches in Old Town Vienna by reading this far, think again. There’s another church you’d love to see when exploring the Old Town, and it’s Annakirche.

Located in Annagasse, it’s another Baroque gem in Vienna: a blend of gold and pastel colors that are a feast for the eyes. Every corner reveals new details – from ornate marble columns to the unique woodwork of its doors. Look up and you’ll see the ceiling, featuring magnificent frescoes depicting scenes from the life of St. Anne, to whom the church is dedicated.

There are also frescoes about the Glory of the Virgin Mary, and The Glory of the newborn Christ Child. When you visit, don’t also miss the wood-carved statue of Saint Anne with the Virgin Mary and the Christ Child, a masterpiece dating back to 1510.

If you’re visiting on July 26 and you’re a Catholic, this church is a must-see destination for being a pilgrimage site. On that day, the right hand relic of Saint Anne is displayed in the church.

Annakirche is also a venue for concerts. Here is where you can find the schedule and concert tickets.

30. House of Music

Last but certainly not least: among the attractions in Vienna, the House of Music is the most entertaining.

Also known as Haus der Musik, this unique sound museum offers an interactive exploration of the world of music, making it both a fun and educational experience for adults and children alike. If I were to describe it, it’s the kind of museum where you learn by doing.

The museum spans four floors, each offering a different musical experience. On the first floor, you’ll find the Vienna Philharmonic. The second floor, known as SONOTOPIA, presents the world of sounds in a multimedia and interactive format. The third floor pays homage to the great composers who lived and worked in Vienna. On the fourth floor, you can test your skills as a conductor of the world-renowned Vienna Philharmonic in the Virtual Conductor exhibit.

If you’re able to climb a flight of stairs, you’re in for a delightful surprise. There are piano stairs that play notes as you ascend to the first floor. They’re a ton of fun for both adults and kids!

If you want to visit the House of Music, it’s located at Seilerstätte 30.

Resources: Old Town Vienna

And there you have it! These are the lesser known and unique attractions of Vienna. For more detailed planning, I recommend checking out the websites of the mentioned places of interest for the most recent and practical information.

• Alte Börse — Official Website
• Schottenkirche — Official Website
• Maria am Gestade Church — Official Website
• Museum Judenplatz — Official Website
• Documentation Center of Austrian Resistance — Official Website
• Palais Daun-Kinsky — Official Website
• Stadtpalais Liechtenstein — Official Website (public guided tours)
• Globe Museum of Austrian National Library — Official Website
• Theatermuseum — Official Website
• House of Music — Official Website