Vienna is a mixture of antiques, history and classical music. Well, if that has already raised your interest and you’ve decided to give the place a try, then here’s a short list of things to see when visiting the beautiful Austrian capital.
St. Stephen’s Cathedral (Stephansdom)
This is a must when in Vienna, a massive cathedral that is the real centerpiece of the city. Built in the early 12th century, the Gothic cathedral is open Monday through Saturday from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Sunday from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. Visiting the main section is free but if you want to see the catacombs or the towers, you will have to pay a few euros. It’s worth every cent and second, though!
Museum of Fine Arts (Kunsthistorisches Museum)
You can’t set foot in Vienna without visiting the Museum of Fine Arts. The wide range of exhibits ranges from masterpieces by Velasquez, Titian, Rubens and Van Dyke to ancient Greek and Egyptian objects and that makes it one of the must-sees in Europe. If you have a soft spot for arts, then make sure you have half a day reserved only for this.
State Opera House (Staatsoper)
Vienna and opera are just inseparable. So, once you get there, make sure you give the State Opera House a try. The center of Viennese life, the State Opera House hosts important performances but you can simply visit Staatsoper museum where you’ll find photos and information about the history of the place.
House of Music (Haus der Musik)
Vienna and music simply make the perfect team. Mahler, Mozart, Strauss, Beethoven, Hayden are the names associated with Vienna. The great composers lived, composed and performed here and that makes the city one of the most important centers of music in the world. That’s why a visit to the House of Music is one of the best things to do when in Vienna.
Hofburg Palace
If you have half a day at disposal and you want a royal experience, then make sure you visit Hofburg Palace. This city within city offers visitors several attractions among which the Sisi Museum, Imperial Silver Collection or the butterfly house, the Royal Chapel and the Imperial Apartments among others.
Now, Vienna has a lot to offer. Other places that are worth a visit when there include the Belvedere Palace, Museum Judenplatz, MuseumsQuartier and Schonbrunn Palace.