Three Days Vienna Itinerary: History, Art, and Architecture

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After thoroughly exploring Vienna, I can say it’s a city that offers every visitor a fantastic overall experience.

It’s an incredible city, especially for us, avid explorers and wanderers. Vienna possesses the three things we primarily seek: fascinating history, remarkable art, and stunning architecture. If only Vienna had breathtaking natural scenery, it would be absolutely perfect!

My observation: While Vienna was once the easternmost bastion of the Western world, visiting this city today might give you the impression that it’s situated much further west. Western culture heavily flourishes in the city — more than in other cities in western Europe — and it’s not hard to see with all the architectural marvels that dot the city. Come inside them to behold their beautiful artistic interiors and notable masterpieces, which make it even more obvious that Vienna is a pillar of Western civilization.

In this three-day itinerary, I’ll guide you through these facets of Vienna being a true city of western society, immersing you in its beauty and satisfying your curiosity.

Don’t worry if you don’t consider yourself much of a wanderer. This plan includes most of Vienna’s must-see attractions, along with suggestions for exploring the city’s rich musical heritage and vibrant coffee house culture.

Summary & Tips

In summary, this 3-day Vienna guide captures the city’s three beautiful aspects:

Day 1 introduces us to the city’s impressive architecture.
Day 2 focuses on Vienna’s rich history.
Day 3 takes us through the city’s most famous art museums.

Note: Each day stands alone, and their sequence is interchangeable according to your preference. One instance where you might want to rearrange them is when a day of your visit coincides with Monday or Thursday. Museums often close on Mondays for maintenance, such as the Kunsthistorisches Museum, which is scheduled for Day 3 of this itinerary. If your visit is from Saturday to Monday, you might consider swapping the activities of Day 3 with those of Day 1 or 2.

For more ideas on where to go in case there are any closed attractions, check out my list of beautiful places you can visit for free in Vienna or the list of little gems I discovered in Old Town Vienna.

For your 3-day visit to Vienna, I recommend booking at least four nights to dedicate the entire three days to exploring the city.

Consider ‘Day 0’ for trip preparation: get your tickets, exchange reservation slips for passes, secure an e-sim, and withdraw cash. Remember that not all restaurants and establishments in Vienna accept credit cards, so carrying cash is essential.

Most importantly, use this extra time to settle into your accommodation and relax. If you’re arriving from another trip, take advantage of the rest to recharge your energy. Vienna offers countless experiences; be prepared for plenty of walking.

So, where should you stay in Vienna?

For this trip, I’d recommend looking for a hotel outside Innere Stadt or the historic center to save money.

Opt for Mariahilf (6th district) or Neubau (7th district). You’ll find more affordable hotel prices, convenient public transportation, and proximity to attractions. Plus, there are plenty of shops, cafes, and restaurants in these districts compared to areas outside Innere Stadt.

Here’s where you can find the best hotel deals in Vienna.

One of the most common tips that you might find when planning a trip to Vienna is the Vienna Pass.

It is an all-inclusive sightseeing card that grants free entry to around 90 attractions in and around Vienna. It’s a popular choice for tourists because it offers several benefits.

First, you can explore top sights without paying additional entrance fees.
Second, the pass provides flexibility—you can visit attractions at your own pace and change your plans without worrying about ticket costs.
Third, some places allow fast-track entry, saving time during peak seasons.
Additionally, the Vienna Pass includes free use of the Vienna Sightseeing hop-on, hop-off bus, making it convenient for exploring the city.

For this trip, I suggest skipping the Vienna Pass.

It’s meant to save you money, but only if you rush to see lots of places in a short time. The pass is only a good deal if it costs less than what you’d pay for all the entrance tickets combined.

Sure, you could visit three or four spots in one day. But then, you’d miss out on really getting to know each place, and we don’t want that. We plan to take our time at museums and palaces, to really get into the cool stuff they offer. Travel is about learning, isn’t it?

To explain why it’s not great to cram 3 or 4 attractions into one day in Vienna, let’s look at the big spots — like the famous palaces and museums. They’re really amazing and have so much to check out.

Take Schonbrunn Palace and its gardens. Ideally, you’ll need at least 4 hours there. The Kunsthistorisches Museum? Plan for 3 hours to really enjoy it. And for Belvedere Palace, you should plan another 3 hours. If you love history or art, you might even want to stay longer!

Rushing through exhibits just to see more places doesn’t seem like a good idea to me. Also remember, most museums and attractions are open from 10 am to 6 pm. Only a few stay open later, until 9 or 10 pm, and that’s usually on Thursdays.

So, instead of getting a Vienna Pass, it’s better to buy tickets for each place you want to visit.

If you like my plan for this trip, look at the resources section of this post for links to book your tickets ahead of time. It’s really important to book early for the city’s top spots, especially during the busy season—they go quickly! I’ve gathered them all there for your convenience planning this trip.

If you’re still interested in the Vienna Pass and what it includes, you can find more info and the latest prices at this link.

Day 1 — Architecture

Slide show: visual summary of your first day in Vienna

We kick off your trip to Vienna with a cup of coffee inside one of its gorgeous coffeehouses, which the city is famous for — first destination — day one of three, itinerary for Vienna, Austria — We kick off your trip to Vienna with a cup of coffee inside one of its gorgeous coffeehouses, which the city is famous for

Next, see the city's beautiful architecture — Votivkirche, Rathaus, Austrian Parliament Building along Ringstrasse — second destination part 1 — day one of three, itinerary for Vienna, Austria — Next, see the city’s beautiful architecture — Votivkirche, Rathaus, Austrian Parliament Building along Ringstrasse

You will also see Hofburg and Vienna State Opera during your stroll along Ringstrasse — second destination part 2 — day one of three, itinerary for Vienna, Austria — You will also see Hofburg and Vienna State Opera during your stroll along Ringstrasse

In the afternoon, come inside Hofburg to see the Austrian National Library and see more architectural masterpieces — third destination — day one of three, itinerary for Vienna, Austria — In the afternoon, come inside Hofburg to see the Austrian National Library and see more architectural masterpieces

Then, wander the Old Town in the late afternoon — Visit Graben, Wiener Pestsäule, and Stock im Eisen — fourth destination part 1 — day one of three, itinerary for Vienna, Austria — Then, wander the Old Town in the late afternoon — Visit Graben, Wiener Pestsäule, and Stock im Eisen

Don’t forget to visit Peterskirche when you explore Old Town Vienna, and you’ll see magnificent baroque architecture — fourth destination part 2 — day one of three, itinerary for Vienna, Austria — Don’t forget to visit Peterskirche when you explore Old Town Vienna, and you’ll see magnificent baroque architecture

Stephansdom is a highlight of a visit to Old Town Vienna — Walk around the church, go inside, and climb one of its towers — fourth destination part 3 — day one of three, itinerary for Vienna, Austria — Stephansdom is a highlight of a visit to Old Town Vienna — Walk around the church, go inside, and climb one of its towers

The little gems that you can find as you wander around Old Town Vienna — fourth destination part 4 — day one of three, itinerary for Vienna, Austria — The little gems that you can find as you wander around Old Town Vienna

Make your first impression of Vienna very memorable by attending a concert inside Karlskirche — fifth destination — day one of three, itinerary for Vienna, Austria — Make your first impression of Vienna very memorable by attending a concert inside Karlskirche

Among the beautiful aspects of Vienna, architecture is the easiest to find and appreciate. It is everywhere in Vienna. Of course, the best part is that it is free.

I have scheduled the architectural activities for Day 1 because the architectural marvels in the city leave a lasting impression; they are a great way to introduce you to Vienna’s character. A simple stroll through its historic center will show you how it has lived up to its role as the capital of the Austrian or Habsburg Empire.

Wanderers would love exploring the city, for all major Western architectural styles are visible. Beautiful buildings boasting Baroque, Gothic, Classical, and Renaissance styles can be spotted everywhere. You can enter some of them and behold the elegant interiors. For example, the coffee houses for which Vienna is famous!

This is why there is no better way to kick off your first day in Vienna than by visiting an elegant coffee house, immersing you in a Viennese tradition that dates back to the late 17th century

Since 2011, Vienna’s coffee house culture has been included in UNESCO’s list of intangible cultural heritage. Today, there are hundreds of coffee houses in Vienna that you can visit to experience this unique tradition.

For the best experience, check out any of the top traditional coffee houses in Vienna. I love their sophisticated furnishings, which give a vintage feel. It’ll kind of feel like a time-transporting experience somehow.

From their vaulted ceilings to their marble tabletops and very comfortable seating, it’s a place you’d love to stay all day. Especially with the aroma of Viennese Coffee, I can use these coffee houses in Vienna for work and write more guides like this. Sigh, I wish I were in Vienna!

Some of the most beautiful coffee houses in Vienna are located along Herrengasse within the Old Town. It’s also here that you can find Café Central, which is among the most recommended by many travelers. Housed in Palais Ferstel, Café Central is undoubtedly an elegant coffee house.

Imagine sipping Maria Theresa Coffee or Viennese Coffee while listening to pleasant piano music and admiring the lovely interiors. It’s a simple yet memorable experience, isn’t it?

Here’s a tip: to find coffee houses (or restaurants for your lunch and dinner) that fit your preferences and budget quickly, check out Vienna’s city guide app, ivie. It can also be your personal guide to the city’s different attractions, keeping you updated with the latest events and more. The link is in the resources section.

After enjoying breakfast at your chosen coffee house, it’s time to start your walk along the Ringstrasse.

The Ringstrasse is the road that goes around the historic center of Vienna, where the oldest part of the city is. It used to be where the city’s walls were, but they took those down and built this road with lots of beautiful buildings. Now, it’s famous for having different styles of buildings all next to each other.

Overall, Ringstrasse is more than five kilometers long, or 3.3 miles. In this trip, we’ll only cover a fourth of its length, focusing on the part where you can find the most important buildings in the city.

We’ll start from Votivkirche, then move to Vienna University, Rathaus (Vienna City Hall), Burgtheater, Austrian Parliament Building, Justizpalast, Hofburg, and end at Vienna State Opera.

If you prefer, you can choose not to do the walking tour and instead attend the guided tours to any of the landmarks other than Hofburg or the Imperial Palace. We’ll focus more on Hofburg after lunch. You may check the official websites of each landmark for more information.

Tip: The Rathaus and Austrian Parliament Building offer free guided tours, but not throughout the entire week and only when there are no parliamentary or city sessions/meetings.

You can check out my free self-guided walking tour of Ringstrasse featuring these attractions to learn more.

The self-guided walking tour concludes at the Vienna State Opera, located in an area that is ideal spot for a lunch break. You’ll find a variety of dining options conveniently located around it.

Directly in front of the Opera House is a Subway, while the fine dining Restaurant Rote Bar is tucked away at the back.

For vegan options, Veggiezz is just a short walk away.

If you’re traveling on a budget, the Wiener Barbecue Würstelstand, a local barbecue stall, is right next door.

If you’re looking for more options, I suggest staying close to Hofburg, as it’s your next stop on the tour.

Don’t forget, having a hearty lunch is a wonderful idea! It will provide you with the energy you need to fully enjoy your exploration of the enchanting Old Town for the rest of the day.

But before the Old Town, we’ll explore Hofburg first, which is just a few steps away from the Vienna State Opera.

Technically, you’ll see Hofburg before you reach the Vienna State Opera during your self-guided Ringstrasse walking tour. I wouldn’t recommend going inside Hofburg at that time, but instead suggest doing so after lunch because you’ll need more than an hour to explore the museums in Hofburg.

Also known as the Imperial Palace, Hofburg was the winter residence of the Habsburg family during their reign. Now, Hofburg serves multiple purposes. It is the residence of the Austrian President and home to various museums and cultural institutions.

Here’s everything you need to know about Hofburg.

Hofburg is also an architectural marvel, not only because of its exteriors — you have to see the facades of St. Michael’s Wing and Neueburg Wing — but also because of the Austrian National Library.

Located in Hofburg’s State Hall, this Baroque library is one of the most beautiful libraries I know in Austria. Its dome is covered by a gigantic fresco called the Apotheosis of Charles VI, and I’m sure you’ll be marveling at it for quite a moment.

But even without that fresco, the library is still stunning. From the ornate shelves to the 16th-century globes (Erdapfel and Himmelsglobus), this library is the epitome of what libraries should look like.

Besides the Austrian National Library, you might also want to check out the Sisi Museum during your visit to Hofburg.

It’s not about architecture, but it may be worth it since you’re already in Hofburg. It’s the most comprehensive museum about Empress Elisabeth ‘Sisi,’ the Princess Diana of her time. She was beautiful and a traveler, too.

During your visit to her museum, you’ll uncover all the intriguing details about her. A visit to the library could be as quick as 30 minutes. But if you’re also visiting the Sisi Museum, you might need over an hour to see the highlights and some little details.

After Hofburg, it’s time to see the rest of the Old Town.

Start at Michaelersplatz, which is the square closest to the Sisi Museum and the Austrian National Library. From there, you can begin exploring the Old Town.

Use my walking tour of Old Town Vienna as your guide.

In that guide, I’ve shown on the map the attractions you’ll visit and their exact locations.

I recommend continuing the route from Hofburg, visiting the attractions labeled numbers 12 to 27. In summary, here’s the sequence:

Hofburg (start) —> Volksgarten —> Burgtheater —> Stadtpalais Liechtenstein —> Wiener Minoritenkirche —> Kolmarkt —> Graben —> Peterskirche —> Stephansdom —> Ankeruhr —> Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church —> Altes Rathaus —> Holocaust Memorial —> Kirche am Hof —> Maria am Gestade Catholic Church —> Schottenkirche —> Palais Daun-Kinsky.

The highlights of this route are Graben, Peterskirche, and Stephansdom. Among the streets in Vienna, Graben is one that’s hard to miss. It’s one of the oldest streets in the city, dating back to Roman times, and beautiful buildings grace the scene on both the left and right.

In Graben, you can also find the Wiener Pestsäule (Plague Column) and Stock im Eisen (Staff in Iron) — which are perhaps the two most intriguing small attractions in the Old Town. Let me quickly introduce them to you.

Of the two, the Wiener Pestsäule would surely be the first you’ll find. It stands prominently in the center of Graben. This Baroque column was built as a consequence of a promise made by Emperor Leopold I during the pest outbreak of 1679. Fleeing the city, he vowed to erect a mercy column if the epidemic would end

Stock im Eisen, on the other hand, is a section of a tree trunk encased in glass. What makes it intriguing are the hundreds of nails hammered into it over centuries. According to legend, each nail represents a wish or pact made by craftsmen, travelers, or passersby.

Coming from Kohlmarkt and heading to Stephansplatz, you can find a street to your left before you reach Pestsäule. It leads to Peterskirche, which is a must-see for its magnificent Baroque interiors. When you go inside, look up to see the detailed frescoes. I love how the painters added a 3D effect to the saints painted in the pendentive.

Check out my guide to Peterskirche to get more ideas about how stunning this church is.

Lastly, there’s Stephansdom. This is the imposing Romanesque and Gothic church you’ll spot at the end of Graben, eye-catching for its iconic intricate spire. Dating back to the 12th century, it bears witness to many historical events in the city. From the cannons that flew over the city during the siege of Vienna by the Ottoman Empire to the bombs that fell in WW2.

Interestingly, if you have a telescope or a camera that can zoom 50x, you can still spot a Turkish cannonball embedded in the church’s southern tower. Come inside Stephansdom and you’ll see it also has an overlay of Baroque! You can also climb its towers if you want.

There’s so much to share about Stephansdom. So here’s everything you need to know about Stephansdom.

We wrap up your first day in Vienna by attending a concert at Karlskirche, which is regarded as one of the most outstanding Baroque churches in the city.

You can find it outside the historic center, just a quick stroll from the Kärtner Ring section of Ringstrasse or the Vienna State Opera.

If you ask me, this could be the most memorable part of your trip, blending stunning architecture with a once-in-a-lifetime musical experience.

Karlskirche is impressive even before you enter. The exteriors are indeed unique, and its twin columns will surely catch your attention as you approach the entrance. If you’ve already been to Italy, you might find the appearance of the twin columns familiar, as they were inspired by Trajan’s Column in Rome.

Of course, what makes your time in Karlskirche special is the concert that you’ll be attending. It’s performed by Orchester 1756, which excels in baroque and classical music. In Karlskirche, they play the classical masterpiece, Four Seasons by Vivaldi, which amazingly imitates the sounds of nature that you can hear during different seasons.

Interestingly, the ensemble plays on ‘original instruments’ that were used in the 17th and 18th centuries, allowing the audience to hear an authentic sound that is true to the period of the music they perform.

As they play, it’s not hard to be moved by the performance. You can see the passion in the movement and facial expressions of the instrumentalists.

To see how architecturally stunning Karlskirche is, check out my guide to Karlskirche where you can also discover the interesting story of the church.

Day 2 — History

Slide show: visual summary of your second day in Vienna

Kick off your day at the Museum of Military History — see artifacts used in war from the 16th century to present — first destination part 1 — day two of three, itinerary for Vienna, Austria — Kick off your day at the Museum of Military History — see artifacts used in war from the 16th century to present

Beautiful artworks and architecture also await inside the Museum of Military History — Feldherrenhalle and Ruhmeshalle — first destination part 2 — day two of three, itinerary for Vienna, Austria — Beautiful artworks and architecture also await inside the Museum of Military History — Feldherrenhalle and Ruhmeshalle

Check out the Sarajevo Car in the Museum of Military History — It is where Franz Ferdinand was assassinated — first destination part 3 — day two of three, itinerary for Vienna, Austria — Check out the Sarajevo Car in the Museum of Military History — It is where Franz Ferdinand was assassinated

In the afternoon, it’s time to explore Schönbrunn Palace — Tour the imperial apartments and the gardens — second destination part 1 — day two of three, itinerary for Vienna, Austria — In the afternoon, it’s time to explore Schönbrunn Palace — Tour the imperial apartments and the gardens

You might like to explore the gardens of Schönbrunn Palace — Check out the Roman Ruins, Neptune Fountain, and more — second destination part 2 — day two of three, itinerary for Vienna, Austria — You might like to explore the gardens of Schönbrunn Palace — Check out the Roman Ruins, Neptune Fountain, and more

After exploring the park, relax in the Gloriette — Eat, drink, and go to its roof deck to see a panoramic view of the palace — second destination part 3 — day two of three, itinerary for Vienna, Austria — After exploring the park, relax in the Gloriette — Eat, drink, and go to its roof deck to see a panoramic view of the palace

In the evening, we go back to the Old Town to get a multi-sensory experience at Time Travel Vienna — third destination — day two of three, itinerary for Vienna, Austria — In the evening, we go back to the Old Town to get a multi-sensory experience at Time Travel Vienna

For your second day in Vienna, we uncover the things that make Vienna a great city beyond its beautiful appearance.

During your visit to the attractions, you’ll uncover 2000 years of history, starting from the Roman era when Vienna was known as Vindobona, through the Habsburg dynasty, and into modern times when Vienna became renowned as a center of arts, music, and intellectual thought.

You’ll hear the names of the city’s greatest personalities, from Habsburgs like Emperor Franz Joseph and Empress Maria Theresa to legendary composers like Mozart, Beethoven, and Johann Strauss II. Not only will you hear their stories, but you’ll also see the magnificent places where they lived and the objects they used.

Your second day in Vienna will be a beautiful journey through time.

Did you know that although modern Austria is landlocked, it was once a naval power, even before World War I? It’s true!

This is because the Austrian/Habsburg Empire once ruled not only its neighboring nations but also parts of present-day Spain, France, southwestern Germany, and southern Italy.

These two are only a few of the so many fascinating facts I discovered while exploring the Museum of Military History.

Known locally as the Heeresgeschichtliches Museum, the Museum of Military History is a significant institution in Vienna that showcases Austria’s military history. It was established in 1869 within the Hofburg Palace but moved to its current location on Arsenalstrasse in 1891.

Today, you can find this fascinating museum in the Arsenal, a large military complex in Vienna, Austria.

Inside, you’ll be transported back in time through various centuries. The museum offers a comprehensive look at the Habsburg Monarchy and their military power from the late 16th century to 1918, as well as the years leading up to 1945.

Interestingly, both the exhibits and architecture of this museum tell the story of the past. You’ll get what I mean when you finally set your eyes on the frescoes adorning the domes and walls of Ruhmeshalle, also known as the Hall of Fame. The great heroes of the empire are depicted here, giving them eternal honor and recognition.

Actually, as soon as you enter the museum, you’ll encounter the great military leaders of the empire. In the Feldherrenhalle, or Field Marshals’ Hall, 56 well-detailed sculptures and statues of Austrian warlords and field commanders welcome visitors to the museum.

Overall, the museum has two floors, featuring eight halls where exhibits are grouped by the time period in which they were used or gathered. It’s like traveling through time, starting from the Thirty Years’ War to the Spanish War of Succession, and on to World Wars I and II.

There’s more to know about the Museum of Military History.

Make the most of your visit with the help of my guide to the Museum of Military History.

By the time you finish exploring the Museum of Military History, it’ll likely be lunchtime, and you might find yourself feeling hungry. Unfortunately, there aren’t many lunch options nearby.

If you prefer using public transportation to get around the city, consider heading to Westbahnhof first. There, you’ll find more dining options, including Burger King, KFC, and various international cuisine restaurants nearby.

Westbahnhof is also the train station where you’ll transfer to another train to reach Schönbrunn Palace, your next destination.

If you can’t find a restaurant around Westbahnhof that suits your diet, you can also try Hietzing station near Schönbrunn Palace. Although it’s not the closest station to the main entrance, there are several lunch options there.

To get to Hietzing station, you’ll still need to transfer trains at Westbahnhof from the Museum of Military History.

On the morning of your second day in Vienna, you can meet the great commanders of the empire and learn about the various events that challenged them.

In the afternoon, we’ll head to Schönbrunn Palace, where you can discover more about the most important individuals who ruled the empire.

Originally the summer residence of the Habsburg family, Schönbrunn Palace is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It features over 1,400 rooms and a variety of attractions. The palace boasts picturesque gardens, museums, incredible artistic monuments, and, believe it or not, even a maze and a zoo! Can you imagine how big it is?

For this itinerary, we plan to spend the entire afternoon at Schönbrunn Palace. While it’s impossible to see everything in just half a day, four hours should be enough to cover the highlights.

You’ll join a guided tour of the palace and explore the top attractions in the gardens, such as the Gloriette. Don’t miss the Gloriette for its stunning view overlooking the entire palace!

If the weather isn’t great, the Imperial Carriage Museum inside the palace is a worthwhile alternative to exploring the gardens.

Just so you know, there are various ways to spend your time at Schönbrunn Palace.

Here’s everything you need to know before you visit, but perhaps the most important tip is to book your guided tour tickets ahead of time.

Schönbrunn Palace is an extremely popular tourist attraction, and securing a convenient time slot can be challenging if you book too close to your visit date. The tour inside Schönbrunn Palace is the highlight, as it offers fascinating insights into the lives of Maria Theresa, Franz Joseph, Sisi, and more.

During your tour of the palace, the guide will share fascinating stories, such as Maria Theresa’s strategy to unite Europe by marrying her children to various heirs across the continent. You’ll also hear about how the Habsburgs portrayed themselves as descendants of Roman emperors through the monuments and park features you’ll encounter in the gardens.

If you have extra time to explore Schönbrunn Palace’s gardens and enjoy photography, be sure to check out my list of the most picturesque spots.

Besides what I’ve already mentioned, other experiences at the palace include:

a Virtual Reality encounter with the Habsburgs,
a Panorama Train ridearound the gardens, and
the Mozart and Strauss Concert in the Orangery.

By the evening, we go back to the Old Town to make a comprehensive journey to the history of the city in Time Travel Vienna.

Here, you’ll meet not only the emperors and military leaders, but almost all the most important personalities of the city, from musicians to heroes.

It presents a piece of history in a unique and unconventional way, unlike a typical museum Get ready to be impressed by the immersive experience, which includes a 5D cinema, VR glasses, and lifelike wax figures that vividly bring Vienna’s history to life.

The tour lasts for 50 minutes and takes you on a fascinating journey through 2000 years of history, featuring encounters with notable figures, specifically, like the Habsburgs, Mozart, and Strauss.

Interactive elements, such as an authentic air raid shelter that lets you feel the intensity of World War II and a virtual horse carriage ride over modern-day Vienna, add to the excitement.

The storytelling, combined with technology, has made this an unforgettable experience.

Day 3 — Art

Slide show: visual summary of your third day in Vienna

Morning to early afternoon, see thousands of artworks, historical artifacts, and cool exhibits in Kunsthistorisches Museum — first destination part 1 — day three of three, itinerary for Vienna, Austria — Morning to early afternoon, see thousands of artworks, historical artifacts, and cool exhibits in Kunsthistorisches Museum

One part of Kunsthistorisches Museum is the Kunstkammer Wien, where you can find things you’d think never existed — first destination part 2 — day three of three, itinerary for Vienna, Austria — One part of Kunsthistorisches Museum is the Kunstkammer Wien, where you can find things you’d think never existed

Famous artworks from different parts of Europe are found in the Picture Gallery of Kunsthistorisches Museum — first destination part 3 — day three of three, itinerary for Vienna, Austria — Famous artworks from different parts of Europe are found in the Picture Gallery of Kunsthistorisches Museum

For history lovers, be excited for the collections from the Ancient Greek, Roman, and Egyptian civilizations — first destination part 4 — day three of three, itinerary for Vienna, Austria — For history lovers, be excited for the collections from the Ancient Greek, Roman, and Egyptian civilizations

Check out the beautiful café restaurant of Kunsthistorisches Museum — first destination part 5 — day three of three, itinerary for Vienna, Austria — Check out the beautiful café restaurant of Kunsthistorisches Museum

Continue discovering artworks inside the Belvedere Palace, which is one of the most beautiful castles in the city — second destination part 1 — day three of three, itinerary for Vienna, Austria — Continue discovering artworks inside the Belvedere Palace, which is one of the most beautiful castles in the city

But don’t forget to wander in the baroque garden of Belvedere Palace — there are many photo opportunities there — second destination part 2 — day three of three, itinerary for Vienna, Austria — But don’t forget to wander in the baroque garden of Belvedere Palace — there are many photo opportunities there

Check out Lower Belvedere Palace for some incredible interiors and collections of medieval religious artifacts — second destination part 3 — day three of three, itinerary for Vienna, Austria — Check out Lower Belvedere Palace for some incredible interiors and collections of medieval religious artifacts

You will also love the architecture inside the Upper Belvedere — Marble Hall, the grand staircase and Carlone Hall — second destination part 4 — day three of three, itinerary for Vienna, Austria — You will also love the architecture inside the Upper Belvedere — Marble Hall, the grand staircase and Carlone Hall

The highlights of the Upper Belvedere Palace are Gustav Klimt’s The Kiss, Character Heads, and Napoleon Crossing the Alps — second destination part 5 — day three of three, itinerary for Vienna, Austria — The highlights of the Upper Belvedere Palace are Gustav Klimt’s The Kiss, Character Heads, and Napoleon Crossing the Alps

We conclude your trip with a fancy dinner in the Danube Tower’s rotating restaurant, offering great food and panoramic views — third destination — day three of three, itinerary for Vienna, Austria — We conclude your trip with a fancy dinner in the Danube Tower’s rotating restaurant, offering great food and panoramic views

Your last day in Vienna will be dedicated to a different kind of beauty, one that reveals the character, creativity, and ideals of the city’s residents. It’s time to discover the art in Vienna.

Well, where do we begin? Art is everywhere in the city. You can visit the Albertina Museum, located in the Hofburg, the Museum of Applied Arts along the Ringstrasse, and the Leopold Museum in the MuseumsQuartier. Fun fact: the Leopold Collection is one of the most significant collections of Austrian art in the world.

However, I can’t emphasize enough how unmissable Belvedere Palace and the Kunsthistorisches Museum are. They house some of the most historical masterpieces and famous artworks by renowned artists. What’s even more fascinating is that the Habsburg emperors and Prince Eugene of Savoy themselves collected the artworks you’ll see in these palace-museums.

And here’s why you should be excited to visit: the buildings housing the art exhibits are masterpieces themselves. The frescoes adorning some of the rooms in these palaces and museums are incredibly stunning in both detail and size!

Good to know: It’s up to you whether you visit Belvedere Palace or the Kunsthistorisches Museum first.

However, if you’re interested in historical art, start your day at the Kunsthistorisches Museum before heading to Belvedere Palace. Visiting the Kunsthistorisches Museum in the morning allows you to see the highlights and gives you the flexibility to adjust your schedule if you come across unique artworks that you want to spend more time admiring. I have to tell you, there’s a lot to see in Kunsthistorisches Museum.
On the other hand, if you’re into more modern art and you’re a fan of Gustav Klimt, visit the Belvedere Palace first so you may admire his artworks without the crowd of other art admirers.

If you need guidance for visiting each attraction, check out my guide to the Kunsthistorisches Museum and my guide to Belvedere Palace.

I’m not usually into museums, but the Kunsthistorisches Museum left a lasting impression on me, even before I saw its exhibits. The facade is simply stunning.

The facade of this art and history museum is adorned with numerous sculptures and reliefs depicting various historical and mythological figures. Among them are representations of renowned artists, scientists, and philosophers, celebrating the achievements of human culture and knowledge.

Step inside, and you’ll see why this museum is considered a Renaissance Revival-style palace of art and history in Vienna.

The interior boasts lavish decorations, including marble, stucco ornamentation, gold leaf, and murals. The grand stairway is particularly notable, featuring paintings by renowned artists such as Gustav Klimt and Hans Makart.

It’s no wonder the Kunsthistorisches Museum is so stunning; it was commissioned by Emperor Franz Joseph I. The museum’s planning began as part of the larger Ringstrasse project, which aimed to unite and display the imperial collections in a grand new building.

Of course, what makes the museum even more incredible are the numerous exhibits inside. The museum’s collections are vast and diverse, spanning seven millennia from Ancient Egypt to the late 18th century. They are divided into five categories.

First is the Picture Gallery, home to great European masterpieces from 16th-century artists like Titian and Veronese to German Renaissance paintings by Albrecht Dürer and Lucas Cranach.
Second is the Egyptian and Near Eastern Collection, which includes artifacts from ancient Egypt and the Near East.
Third is the Collection of Greek and Roman Antiquities, showcasing sculptures, pottery, and other artifacts from ancient Greece and Rome.
Fourth—my favorite—is the Kunstkammer Wien, which houses a variety of objects, including intricate clocks, scientific instruments, and precious gemstones.
Lastly, the Coin Collection features coins, some dating back to the 7th century BC.

Seeing the highlights might take two hours, and exploring the entire museum could take four or five hours if you’re a fan. There’s so much to discover, but don’t worry about your legs getting tired. The Kunsthistorisches Museum has very comfortable couches in its exhibition halls.

For lunch on your third day, you can simply stay at the Kunsthistorisches Museum for a fantastic dining experience.

Located in the beautiful Cupola Hall, the Café-Restaurant at the museum offers an elegant and inviting atmosphere. The interior features comfortable sofas and high tables by the windows, providing a stunning view of Maria-Theresien-Platz.

The restaurant offers a variety of traditional Viennese dishes and specialties. You can enjoy Viennese coffee and delicious pastries, hearty soups and fresh salads, classic Austrian dishes like Wiener Schnitzel, and seasonal specialties along with mouth-watering desserts.

Belvedere Palace ranks among Vienna’s top attractions for good reason.

This stunning Baroque palace is both one of the city’s most beautiful and historically important, being closely associated to Prince Eugene of Savoy, a revered hero of Vienna.

He is famed for his military brilliance and strategic genius, especially in protecting Vienna and the Habsburg Monarchy from the Ottoman Empire.

Interestingly, he was also a patron of the arts, which becomes evident when you enter his palace, filled with artworks. Upon his death, Maria Theresa acquired the palace and converted it into a full-fledged venue for imperial collections.

Today, Belvedere Palace serves as a museum, housing an impressive array of Austrian art, including pieces by Gustav Klimt, Egon Schiele, and Oskar Kokoschka.

Belvedere Palace consists of three main parts: the Upper Belvedere, the Lower Belvedere, and the Baroque garden situated between them. While the garden is free to enter, both the Upper and Lower Belvedere have their own admission fees.

The highlights are located in the Upper Belvedere, where you can find Gustav Klimt’s famous painting, The Kiss.

Another notable piece is the series of sculptures known as Character Heads, which are unique to their time.

Additionally, the painting Napoleon Crossing the Alps is also worth mentioning.

However, don’t underestimate the exhibits in the Lower Belvedere. The Marble Hall, the Gold Cabinet, and the Hall of Grotesques in this part of the palace are incredible and just as stunning as the Marble Hall, Carlone Hall, and staircase of the Upper Belvedere.

If you have some time before leaving Vienna, why not end your trip with a visit to the Danube Tower in the late afternoon or early evening? It’s the tallest structure in Austria and provides a 360-degree view of the entire city.

The tower also has a revolving restaurant where you can watch the scenery change as you enjoy Styrian Supreme Chicken with kohlrabi, potatoes cooked in chicken broth, and belly bacon.

Here’s what you can expect when visiting the Danube Tower.

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Resources

That wraps up this three day Vienna itinerary! With the artworks that you’ll discover, history you hear, and architectural marvels you’ll find along the way, isn’t Vienna really a wonderful place to visit? Now, should you need more information about this trip, you can check the official websites linked below.