Welcome to everythingaboutVienna.com. This website is packed with practical tips, inspiration and useful information about Austria’s magnificent capital. As a Dutchman who has been visiting Vienna regularly for years, I share my best insider tips right here.
Once the heart of a vast European empire, Vienna still exudes the grandeur of its imperial past. The Habsburgs shaped this city into a cultural masterpiece, leaving behind breathtaking palaces like Schloss Schönbrunn and the majestic Belvedere. The historic old town with its iconic Stephansdom and the irresistible Austrian cuisine make every visit truly unforgettable.
Vienna is the ideal destination for a city break and one of the most beautiful cities in Europe. Follow in the footsteps of the Habsburgs, visit the world-famous Schloss Schönbrunn and immerse yourself in Vienna’s legendary Kaffeehaus culture.
In recent years, Vienna has grown into a modern, vibrant metropolis with a fantastic range of museums, festivals and cultural events. Its stunning architecture and refined Viennese cuisine make a trip to Austria’s capital an unforgettable experience.
For over 15 years I’ve been sharing the best tips and information about Vienna — Austria’s largest city and year after year voted the world’s most liveable city.
Viel Spaß in Vienna!
— Vincent van der Meer
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Vienna is Austria’s largest city and, at the same time, its own federal state and the country’s capital. Over 2 million residents live in an area roughly the size of Birmingham or Denver. For centuries, Vienna was the heart of a vast European empire — and that legacy is still visible today in the dozens of breathtaking landmarks the city has to offer. There is more than enough to see and experience during a multi-day city break in Vienna.
The world capital of classical music
Every year on 1 January, the whole world tunes in to the New Year’s Concert, held for more than 100 years at the Musikverein in Vienna. The classical works of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Beethoven and Bach are now broadcast live in almost every country on earth. Vienna truly is the world capital of classical music. That doesn’t mean Vienna is a stuffy or dull city, though — far from it. The city has long been one of Europe’s great cultural capitals, and alongside its classical heritage it embraces modern art with equal enthusiasm.
Stunning architecture
The historic cityscape of Vienna is defined by a breathtaking abundance of baroque buildings from the era of Empress Maria Theresa (also known as Sisi) and Emperor Franz Joseph. The latter in particular was responsible for the monumental buildings lining the famous Ringstrasse in Vienna. Like many European cities, Vienna suffered bombings during World War II and several buildings were damaged — many of which have since been meticulously restored.
Today, Vienna’s skyline is a fascinating blend of old and new. Sleek modern skyscrapers stand side by side with the iconic spires of St. Stephen’s Cathedral, and of course the magnificent Giant Ferris Wheel of the Prater appears on practically every photo of the city.
Things to do in Vienna
Young or old, it doesn’t matter. Vienna may sound like a traditional, old-fashioned city — but it is anything but. While many visitors come to explore the world of Empress Sisi, if that’s not your thing, the city offers countless other experiences. Modern art is celebrated in Vienna (and across Austria) with bold, capital letters. The MUMOK (Museum of Modern Art) in the MuseumsQuartier is a perfect example. And works by the celebrated artist Gustav Klimt — including The Kiss — can be admired right here in Vienna.
If Sisi is your thing, a visit to Schloss Schönbrunn is absolutely essential. You can also dive deeper into her fascinating life at the Sisi Museum.
Getting around in Vienna
Public transport in Vienna is the best way to get around. The extensive network of metro lines, trams and buses is one of the most efficient in the world. During the day, the U-Bahn (metro) runs every 5 to 6 minutes, criss-crossing the city with ease. Trams operate on a 5 to 10-minute schedule above ground, while buses reach areas the trams and metro cannot. With a day pass or multi-day ticket you can explore Vienna at your own pace — and without breaking the bank.
Getting to Vienna
There are several ways to reach Vienna, but flying remains the fastest. Vienna International Airport (Flughafen Wien-Schwechat) offers direct connections to major cities across Europe and beyond, just 18 km from the city centre. The City Airport Train (CAT) gets you to the heart of Vienna in just 16 minutes.
For a more eco-friendly journey, the Nightjet night train is increasingly popular. Austrian Federal Railways (ÖBB) run comfortable overnight services between Amsterdam and Vienna every evening — choose a standard seat or your own private sleeper cabin, and arrive well-rested the following morning. Travelling by car to Vienna? We have handy tips for that too.
Vienna as a city break
Vienna is Austria’s capital and year after year voted the world’s most liveable city. Whether you come for a long weekend or stay for a full week, the city always has more to offer than you can fit in. On everythingaboutvienna.com we help you get the very best out of your visit — from your first coffee in a Viennese Kaffeehaus to your last Wiener Schnitzel. Viel Spaß in Vienna!
Vincent
Frequently asked questions about Vienna
What is the capital of Austria?
Vienna is the capital and its own federal state of Austria. The city has over 2 million inhabitants, making it the country’s largest city.
What are the best things to see in Vienna?
The absolute must-sees are Schloss Schönbrunn, St. Stephen’s Cathedral, the Hofburg Palace, the Belvedere and the Naschmarkt. See our full list of sights for all the tips.
How do I get to Vienna from the UK or the Netherlands?
Flying from Amsterdam Schiphol takes around 1.5 hours. You can also take the night train — the Nightjet departs every evening from Amsterdam and arrives in Vienna the following morning. It’s a popular and eco-friendly choice.
How much does a city break to Vienna cost?
A weekend trip including hotel costs on average €300–500 per person. With the Vienna City Card you get unlimited travel on public transport and discounts at museums and attractions.