Best things to do in Vienna
During my 4 years of studying in Vienna I was able to experience nearly every aspect of the city. Vienna has been voted the most livable city in the world numerous times. I picked a few of my favorite locations and the best things to do in Vienna - from tourist attractions to insider tips.
Hundertwasserhaus
The Hundertwasserhaus is one of the top tourist attractions in Vienna and I got the pleasure to live directly on the opposite side of the building for a few months. It is an apartment house in Vienna, built after the idea and concept of the Austrian artist Friedensreich Hundertwasser. This expressionist landmark of Vienna is located in the Landstraße district on the corner of Kegelgasse and Löwengasse.
Schönbrunn Palace
Schönbrunn is one of the most important architectural, cultural and historical monuments in the country and definitely a must-see attraction in Vienna. It is not only the palace itself which is really astounding, there is also a beautiful, big garden complex with Roman Ruins, the Gloritte (the structure on the hill) and various fountains.
Hofburg and Stephansdom
Hofburg, Stpehansdom, the Imperial Treasury, the parliament, Heldenplatz. These are just a few of the famous old buildings in the city center.
Naschmarkt
The Naschmarkt is near the Karlsplatz and a 15 min walk from the center. It is the biggest market in Vienna (1.5 km long), exists since the 16th century and is famous for the variety of food from around the world. Exotic herbs, cheese, seafood, sushi, crepes, kebab - You can even try a lot food without buying it.
Hungry? Pizzeria Mafiosi!
Pizzeria Mafiosi (Reindorfgasse 15, 1150 Wien) offers the best and biggest pizzas with cheap prices in Vienna.
Coffee and Sacher Cake (famous chocolate cake)
Vienna is famous for the coffee culture and the Sacher Cake. You do not have to buy the Sacher Cake in the Sacher Hotel, it is cheaper and even tastes better in normal confectioneries (like aida) or coffee houses. It is often not possible to get a normal black filter coffee, "Verlängerter" (mocha/expresso with double amount of water) is the closest one and "Melange" is the version with milk.
Coffee with amazing view: Das Loft
"Das Loft" is a secret cafe in the Sofitel Vienna near the Danube Canal (Donaukanal). On the 18th floor you have an awesome view over the whole city. It's not the cheapest cafe, but with the view it is definitely worth it.
Danube Canal (Donaukanal)
Walking along the Danube Canal near Schwedenplatz is always relaxing. On a sunny day there are a lot of opportunities to lie in a deckchair next to the river. You can also spot professional street art and graffiti.
Christmas Market
If you visit Vienna in November or December you should spend the evening at one of the Christmas Markets. They are nearly everywhere in the city. My favorite ones are the Christmas Market at the castle Schönbrunn and at the City Hall near the center.