A Fairytale in the Heart of Winter
We visited Vienna the week before New Year’s Eve, when the city is aglow with festive lights, making it seem like it’s come straight out of a fairytale. The aristocratic charm of the city reveals itself at every turn, as its historic buildings are beautifully lit by shimmering decorations. The squares come alive with the sounds of traditional orchestras, and the air is filled with the inviting scent of mulled wine and sweet treats.
As midnight draws near, Vienna becomes a bridge between the past and the future—a living canvas of history and hope. New Year’s Eve here is not just a moment; it’s an experience that lingers in your heart, symbolizing new beginnings, set against the backdrop of one of Europe’s most captivating cities. Join me on this journey through Vienna’s hidden gems with this Vienna Travel Guide.
How to Get to Vienna
Vienna is easily accessible from many European cities, with direct flights from Athens, Thessaloniki, and other major destinations.
We chose to fly directly from Thessaloniki with Ryanair, with a round-trip ticket costing €70 and a flight duration of approximately 2 hours.
Vienna International Airport is located just 15 minutes from the city center, with fast and convenient transportation options, including trains, buses, and taxis.
Where to Stay
Vienna offers a wide range of accommodations to suit every taste and budget.
If you’d like to stay near the city center, areas like Innere Stadt (City Center) or Leopoldstadt are excellent choices, providing easy access to the main attractions.
For a more budget-friendly option, areas such as Mariahilf and Neubau offer great accommodations at lower prices. The cost of accommodation in the city varies, with an average nightly rate ranging from €70-100, while more luxurious options can reach €200 and beyond.
We chose to stay at the Ibis Wien Messe, with a rate of €117 per night with breakfast. Its location provided us with easy access to the city center via the nearby Praterstern station, from where metro lines 1 and 2 take you to the historic center in just 5 minutes.
Attractions
Vienna offers a wealth of attractions to explore. Here is a list of some of the most famous and interesting ones:
- Schönbrunn Palace – One of Europe’s most famous palaces, with stunning gardens.
- Vienna State Opera – An iconic building of Vienna’s classical music scene.
- St. Stephen’s Cathedral – The city’s most famous religious monument.
- Maria-Theresien-Platz – A striking square with two major museums, the Kunsthistorisches Museum and the Naturhistorisches Museum.
- Hofburg Palace – The imperial palace and former seat of the Austrian monarchy.
- Belvedere Museum – A historic palace and museum featuring works by Gustav Klimt.
- Naschmarkt – A popular outdoor market with a wide variety of food and restaurants.
Schönbrunn Palace
It is one of the most iconic and historic monuments in Vienna and Austria as a whole. Known for its unique architecture, beautiful gardens, and strong connection to the Austrian monarchy, it has become a symbol of the nation’s royal heritage.
The construction of Schönbrunn Palace began in the late 17th century, and it served as the summer residence of the Austrian emperors, primarily the Habsburg dynasty.
The palace was completed during the reign of Empress Maria Theresa in the 18th century. Today, it is a UNESCO World Heritage site, attracting visitors from around the world.
Entrance to Schönbrunn Palace offers various options depending on which areas of the palace and gardens you’d like to explore. Typically, adult tickets to the palace cost around 20 euros, with discounted tickets available for children and students.
For more information about the prices and entry options, you can visit the official website of the palace: https://www.schoenbrunn.at/en/
Vienna State Opera
The Vienna State Opera is one of the most important and famous buildings in the city, as well as one of the world’s most significant musical venues. The building was completed in 1869 and regularly hosts world-class opera, ballet, and concert performances. It is renowned for its exceptional acoustics and impressive architecture, combining Renaissance Revival and Baroque styles.
Located in the heart of the city, the Vienna State Opera is undoubtedly the center of opera and classical music in Austria. Its stage is famously known for productions of works by famous composers such as Mozart, Beethoven, and Strauss, while it also hosts many contemporary performances and groundbreaking works.
Entrance to the opera can be expensive, depending on the performance and ticket category. However, the Vienna State Opera offers a more affordable experience: visitors can watch performances from the “Standing Tickets” (standing room tickets), which are available at much lower prices. Notably, performances at the Vienna State Opera continue throughout the year, with various shows across different seasons. We attended with the cheapest ticket, and although the visibility wasn’t perfect, we thoroughly enjoyed the experience. Even from these seats, the experience was unique.
For more information about performances and ticket prices, you can visit the official website of the Vienna State Opera: https://www.wiener-staatsoper.at/en/
St. Stephen’s Cathedral (Stephansdom)
St. Stephen’s Cathedral is one of the most iconic and beloved symbols of Vienna and Austria. Located in the heart of the city, it serves as a landmark for both locals and tourists alike.
The cathedral is primarily known for its Gothic architecture. Its impressive tower rises majestically above the city and is a characteristic symbol of Vienna. The colorful roof, decorated with intricate tiles, adds a special beauty and highlights the unique character of the building.
Entry to the main part of the cathedral is free, allowing everyone to enjoy its beauty and atmosphere. However, for those who wish to climb the tower or explore the catacombs, a small fee applies. We decided to climb the tower, and the view was absolutely breathtaking—an experience worth every step!
For more information about tickets and details, you can visit the official website: https://www.stephansdom.at/en
Stephanplatz
Ιs the central square of Vienna and the heart of the old town. In this vibrant square, you’ll find St. Stephen’s Cathedral (Stephansdom), one of the city’s most iconic landmarks, attracting hundreds of visitors daily. The area is filled with shops, cafes, restaurants, and small boutiques, creating a lively and cosmopolitan atmosphere. Additionally, Stephanplatz serves as an important transportation hub, with easy access to metro lines, buses, and trams, making it convenient to move around the city.
On New Year’s Eve, Stephanplatz comes alive with various activities and events, with crowds gathering to celebrate the arrival of the new year. However, it is important to note that on New Year’s Eve night, the metro does not stop at the square for safety reasons due to the large crowds. The area gets extremely crowded, creating an atmosphere of excitement and celebration throughout the region.
Maria-Theresien-Platz
Maria-Theresien-Platz is one of the most impressive squares in Vienna and a central point of cultural interest. It is located between the Ringstraße, the famous circular boulevard of the city, and is surrounded by some of the most important museums of the Austrian capital.
Hofburg Palace
The Hofburg Palace in Vienna is a historic and architectural masterpiece that served as the residence of the Habsburg dynasty for over 600 years. Located in the heart of the city, the palace complex features a mix of medieval, Renaissance, Baroque, and neoclassical styles. Today, it is home to important institutions such as the Sisi Museum, the Imperial Treasury, and the Austrian National Library, making it a key cultural and historical site in Vienna.
Visitors to the Hofburg Palace can explore its impressive courtyards, lavish rooms, and learn about the rich history of the Austrian monarchy. The palace also serves as the official residence of the Austrian President. A must-see for anyone interested in Austrian history, the Hofburg Palace offers a fascinating glimpse into the past of one of Europe’s most influential royal families.
For more information on visiting, you can check the official website of the Hofburg Palace: www.hofburg-wien.at.
Belvedere Museum
The Belvedere Museum in Vienna is one of Austria’s most important cultural landmarks, housing an impressive collection of artworks, with a focus on the work of Austrian painter Gustav Klimt. The museum is divided into two main buildings, the Upper Belvedere and the Lower Belvedere, both surrounded by beautiful Baroque-style gardens. The architecture of the Belvedere is remarkable, with the Upper Belvedere being the most significant example of Baroque architecture in Vienna.
The Belvedere Museum also features masterpieces by artists such as Renoir, Rodin, and Egel. With a collection spanning from the 19th century to contemporary art, the museum offers unique exhibitions and activities throughout the year. If you’re visiting Vienna, the Belvedere Museum is a must-see for art and history enthusiasts.
For information on admission and opening hours, visit the official website of the museum at www.belvedere.at.
Naschmarkt
The Naschmarkt in Vienna is the city’s most popular food market and one of its most well-known tourist attractions. Spanning approximately 1.5 kilometers, it hosts over 100 stalls and shops offering fresh products, seasonal fruits and vegetables, as well as unique delicacies from around the world. In addition to fresh food, visitors can find excellent restaurants and cafés serving Austrian and international cuisine.
The Naschmarkt is also famous for its atmosphere, combining the vibrant energy of the market with the historic charm of Vienna. Visitors from all over the world flock to the market to explore its unique offerings and experience the flavors and traditions of Austrian and international cuisine.
Vienna Zoo (Tiergarten Schönbrunn)
The Vienna Zoo (Tiergarten Schönbrunn) is the oldest zoo in Europe, founded in 1752, and is located within the historic Schönbrunn Palace complex. Spanning 17 hectares, the zoo houses over 700 animal species, making it one of the most famous and visited zoos in the world. In addition to its rich variety of wildlife, the zoo combines modern facilities with respect for the animals’ natural needs, while also being home to several endangered species.
Known for its emphasis on breeding programs and species conservation research, the Vienna Zoo offers a variety of educational activities for visitors. Guests can enjoy tours of specially designed natural habitats, participate in educational programs, and take part in family-friendly activities. The zoo also provides restaurants, cafés, and shops to cater to visitors’ needs.
For more information on tickets and opening hours, visit the official website of the Vienna Zoo: www.zoovienna.at.
Food and Flavors
Vienna is renowned for its exceptional cuisine, and especially during the Christmas season, the city fills with the aromas of mulled wine, sausages, and sweet treats. Here are some of the must-try flavors:
- Wiener Schnitzel: The traditional Viennese fried meat, usually served with potatoes or salad.
For Wiener Schnitzel:
Figlmüller, Wollzeile 5, 1010 Vienna
It is famous for the largest and most delicious Wiener Schnitzel in Vienna. One of the city’s most traditional restaurants, where you can try the authentic schnitzel in a classic Austrian atmosphere. Since it is always busy, it is recommended to make a reservation in advance, especially during peak hours.
Website: https://www.figlmueller.at/en/
- Sachertorte: The famous chocolate cake of Vienna, which is a must-try at every café in the city.
For a delicious Sachertorte, the perfect place is Central Café in Vienna, established in 1876, is one of the city’s most iconic and historic cafés. Located in the heart of Vienna, near Stadtpark, it has been a meeting point for famous personalities from the arts, literature, and politics. The café preserves the authentic 19th-century atmosphere with its classic décor, wooden interiors, and elegant seating.
Visitors to Central Café can enjoy a cup of coffee or a traditional Austrian pastry, such as Sachertorte or Apfelstrudel, while soaking in the unique atmosphere and rich history. The café remains true to the Austrian coffee house tradition, offering exceptional service and high-quality products.
Karlsplatz 4,
1010 Vienna, Austria
For more information, visit the official website of Central Café: www.cafecentral.wien/
- Glühwein: Hot wine, often spiced with cinnamon and citrus, which you’ll especially enjoy at the outdoor markets and on cold winter days, offering warmth and flavor.
- Pretzel: The classic salty pretzel, which is especially popular on the streets and at markets in the city. You can find it in various variations, such as classic, with cheese, or bacon.
- Sausages (Würstel): Austrian sausages are a must-try for every visitor, typically served in a bun and accompanied by mustard or other condiments. If you visit any street food stalls or outdoor markets, don’t miss trying a classic Viennese sausage or a hot dog with sausage.
The culinary experience in Vienna is unique, especially when enjoyed alongside the enchanting atmosphere of the city during the festive season.
Christmas Activities
Vienna during the Christmas season transforms into a fairytale destination, adorned with festive Christmas markets that captivate visitors. The most famous ones are located in Rathausplatz and Karlsplatz, where you can shop for handmade gifts, sip on mulled wine, or indulge in traditional Christmas sweets like Lebkuchen and Kipferl. The charming atmosphere of the markets, with twinkling lights and the scent of roasted chestnuts in the air, adds a magical touch to the city.
A visit to the Prater is a must, where you can take a ride on the iconic Giant Ferris Wheel for breathtaking views of the city. During the holiday season, the park is beautifully decorated, and you’ll find cozy spots to enjoy hot drinks and snacks. Whether you’re strolling through the markets, skating at the outdoor rinks, or simply soaking in the festive spirit, Vienna offers an unforgettable Christmas experience.
Tips from Travel Guide Views: www.travelguideviews.com
1.Make use of the Vienna Pass: If you plan to visit many attractions, the Vienna Pass offers various options for free entry to over 60 attractions and unlimited use of public transportation. There are different packages and durations available, allowing you to choose the best option for your itinerary. It’s ideal for those who want to explore many places in an economical way.
For more information and options, you can find details at www.viennapass.com.
2.Don’t miss the Christmas Markets: Vienna is famous for its Christmas markets. Be sure to visit the markets at Rathausplatz and Karlsplatz, where you can find local products and delicious treats.
3.Explore Vienna’s cafés: The city is filled with cafés, some of which are iconic historical spots, like Café Central and Café Sacher. Be sure to try the famous Sachertorte cake.
4.Watch out for peak hours: Vienna can be very busy, especially around the holidays. If you want to avoid the crowds, try visiting the most popular attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon.
5.Take a walk in the city parks: Vienna is home to beautiful parks, and Christmas is the perfect time for a stroll. The decorated squares and snowy paths create a magical atmosphere.
6.Don’t miss trying the authentic Wiener Schnitzel: If you’re a fan of gastronomy, the Wiener Schnitzel is a must-try dish in Vienna. The city boasts many restaurants that serve this traditional meal, with Figlmüller being the most famous for the largest and most delicious schnitzel in Vienna.
7.Combine your trip to Vienna with a day trip to the magical Hallstatt.
For more information, read our article:
Hallstatt, Gosau, Gmunden: The Ultimate Travel Guide to the Epic Austrian Alps
A Journey to the Land of Music and Dreams
This city, filled with rich history and aristocratic atmosphere, continues to captivate and enchant every visitor, leaving an indelible mark on the traveler’s heart. The sounds of opera, the festive Christmas markets, impressive historic buildings, and traditional flavors create a unique harmony between past and future. As the last illuminated streets of Vienna bid farewell to the night, the magic of the city remains timeless and unforgettable.
We conclude our journey with a deep sense of fulfillment, cherishing the images of glowing streets, lively markets, and distinctive flavors, as we prepare to leave Vienna and return home, carrying all its enchanting moments. With each step away from this mesmerizing city, we know our journey to the “City of Dreams” will forever live in our memories, ready to inspire future adventures.
Travel Guide Views
- Why Travel Health Insurance is Essential for Every Trip
- Book Hotels Early with Free Cancellation for Flexibility and Peace of Mind
- Book Flights in Advance (But Not Too Early)
- Alonissos: The Ultimate Day Cruise in Its Crystal Clear Waters
- Syros: Journey to the Queen of the Cyclades – The Ultimate Travel Guide