Exploring all of Vienna in 3 days is a challenging task, but we can certainly highlight the top spots that you simply can’t miss.
What to See in Vienna in 3 Days
When visiting a city like Vienna, a large city filled with fascinating attractions, it’s essential to have a well-organized itinerary.
That’s why you should read this guide, where we present the optimal way to explore the city.
Additionally, we recommend getting the Vienna Card, a discount card that will let you skip lines at every monument or point of interest around the city.
Below, we’ve provided a detailed plan to help you explore Vienna in three days.
Day 1 in Vienna
In the Morning
Our visit begins at Karlsplatz, right after arriving from the Vienna airport or dropping your bags at a discounted hotel.
The Vienna State Opera is undoubtedly one of the world’s most renowned opera houses, and a testament to its significance is that it was almost entirely rebuilt after wartime bombings.
A must-see spot is the New Market Square, a broad area where you’ll find the Capuchin Church and the crypt of the Habsburg dynasty on the left. It’s an ideal stop for those intrigued by unique mausoleums or tombs. Entry is affordable and offers a deep dive into the history of Austria’s royals.
If you continue up, you’ll reach the St. Stephen’s Cathedral, an iconic city landmark and one of the world’s most significant Gothic temples. Entry is free, though there is a fee to view the treasures or descend into the crypt. This is a must-see for anyone spending three days in Vienna.
One exceptional experience here is attending a classical music concert in the cathedral. Whether or not you’re a music lover, we highly recommend it for the unique atmosphere. To secure your spot, it’s best to book your ticket here in advance.
Tours Available:
In the Afternoon
On the opposite side of the cathedral square lies the Graben, an ancient Roman trench, which is marked by the striking “Plague Column” at its center.
Along the Graben, you’ll also find St. Peter’s Church, famous for its green dome. Here, we bought tickets for the Classic Ensemble Vienna concert at St. Peter’s, one of the most special musical evenings you can enjoy in the city.
Afterward, it’s worth heading down Kohlmarkt to St. Michael’s Square, where you’ll arrive in front of the Hofburg Palace. Hofburg is well worth a visit, with a tour of the royal rooms that even delves into the fascinating and controversial figure of Empress Sisi. The tour typically lasts around two hours.
If you have the chance, we recommend taking the guided tour of the palace, the Sisi Museum, and the gardens, as having a guide makes it even more enriching while you explore the rooms of this impressive palace. Additionally, with this online ticket, you can also access the palace treasury and see the various dresses and artifacts on display.
Next to the palace is the St. Michael’s Church, and nearby is Loos House, a museum honoring the avant-garde Austrian architect.
Across from Josefsplatz is the Prunksaal, one of the world’s most beautiful baroque libraries.
In front of City Hall, to the right, you’ll find the University, and to the left, the Vienna Parliament, a Greek temple-like structure dedicated to Athenian democracy. This building is stunning, both inside and out.
Heading down to the left, you’ll arrive at Maria Theresa Square, named after Austria’s most famous empress. Here you’ll find two incredible museums: the Art History Museum and the Natural History Museum, one on each side.
Recommended Tours:
Day 2: What to See in Vienna
Seeing Vienna in 3 days goes by quickly, so make the most of your second day.
In the Morning
Next to the Southern Train Station is the Military History Museum, tucked away in the Arsenal Gardens.
This visit takes about an hour, but it’s well worth it. Following Arsenal Street to Prince Eugene Street brings you to the Belvedere Palaces:
- Upper Belvedere
- Lower Belvedere
These two palaces now function as museums, primarily showcasing art exhibitions, and feature marvelous gardens.
If art isn’t your main interest, you can just stroll through the gardens until you reach Schwarzenbergplatz, where there’s a fountain and monument dedicated to Vienna’s liberation by the Red Army.
To the left of this square is the Vienna City Museum, a highly recommended visit.
Nearby is Karlsplatz, where you can admire the famous Karlskirche. The church is striking on the outside, though some say the interior is less impressive.
It’s worth visiting the House of Medallions, an area packed with numerous restaurants offering great food at fair prices.
An interesting stroll can be taken along the Danube’s edge, with an observatory and popular meeting spot for intellectuals. If you’re looking for romantic spots to visit in Vienna in 3 days, this is an ideal choice.
Recommended Tours:
In the Afternoon
Continue across the river along Prater Street. At the end, you’ll arrive at the world’s oldest amusement park, a true spectacle.
As a final stop for the day, visit the Riesenrad, the world’s first Ferris wheel, which has been spinning since 1897.
There’s no admission fee for the park, making it a great place to enjoy a nice dinner or grab a beer. Tickets for the Ferris wheel cost around 10€.
Recommended Tours:
Day 3: Your Last Day in Vienna
In the Morning
This final day is perfect for a visit to the Schönbrunn Palace park, with a metro stop named after it. Here, you can explore the Palace of Sissi, discover the first flushing toilet of its time, view the rooms where the last empress (Zita) resided, as well as the quarters of Napoleon, and visit the famous Hall of Mirrors.
When you step outside, you’ll see the Prince’s Garden, a charming and scenic spot worth exploring.
Take a stroll through the vast park, seeking out the more secluded gardens. There are also labyrinths and play areas for children to enjoy.
Recommended Tours:
In the Afternoon
At the far end, you’ll find the Gloriette, a commemorative monument celebrating Maria Theresa’s victory over Frederick II of Prussia.
Nearby is the Zoo or Tiergarten, a must-see in Vienna, founded by Empress Maria Theresa, who was passionate about animals, making it Europe’s oldest zoo.
For some last-minute shopping, head toward the Palmenhaus, an impressive steel greenhouse and the largest of its kind in Europe. Be sure to visit the Japanese garden—a highlight in this area.
Close by is Am Platz, a historic yellow square. If you go up the street from here, you’ll reach the Hofpavillon, a metro station designed for Emperor Otto Wagner. Its octagonal waiting room and elegant decor surpass even Moscow’s famed metro.
Just next door, you’ll find the Hietzing metro and tram station, a convenient spot for a return to the city center for some final shopping before bidding farewell to Vienna.
Recommended Tours:
- Classical Music Concert at St. Peter’s Church
- Free Night Tour of Vienna
- Pub Crawl – Party Tour of Vienna!
If you have any questions about planning your 3-day trip to Vienna, feel free to reach out to us on social media!