
Vienna Introduction Walking Tour II (Self Guided), Vienna
Vienna, the former capital of the once mighty Austro-Hungarian Empire, is the second largest city in the German-speaking world after Berlin. Steeped in history, today's Vienna is still much revered for its cultural grandeur. The abundance of it, manifested in imperial palaces, diverse museums, and historic churches, beckons annually over 6 million guests from around the world.
One of the most iconic landmarks in Vienna is Saint Stephen's Cathedral (Stephansdom), a stunning Gothic masterpiece from the 12th century and a true testament to Vienna's enduring heritage. Nearby, Saint Stephen's Square (Stephansplatz) is a bustling hub where locals and visitors alike converge to soak in the city's vibrant atmosphere.
For those in search of a shopping experience like no other, Carinthian Street (Karntner StraĂźe) is a must-visit destination. This historic thoroughfare is lined with an array of shops, boutiques, and cafes, making it the perfect place to indulge in some retail therapy or savor a cup of Vienna's famous coffee.
Music enthusiasts will find their haven at the House of Music (Haus der Musik), which offers an immersive journey through the world of sound and classical compositions. Vienna's deep-rooted connection to music is further exemplified by Saint Charles' Church (Karlskirche), a Baroque masterpiece known for its breathtaking frescoes and an extraordinary acoustic design that sets the stage for magnificent concerts.
And then there's the Belvedere Palace, a testament to Vienna's imperial history. This architectural marvel is home to a stunning art collection, including the world-renowned works of Gustav Klimt, particularly "The Kiss." The palace and its extensive gardens showcase the opulence of the Habsburg dynasty.
Vienna is a city that seamlessly blends tradition and modernity, offering a multitude of experiences for every type of traveler. On the second part of our self-guided introductory walk, we're excited to introduce you further to this magnificent European gem. As you delve into the Viennese “art of living” (Lebenskunst), you will realize that despite changing rulers and times, Vienna has retained almost the same pace and much the same style as centuries ago.
One of the most iconic landmarks in Vienna is Saint Stephen's Cathedral (Stephansdom), a stunning Gothic masterpiece from the 12th century and a true testament to Vienna's enduring heritage. Nearby, Saint Stephen's Square (Stephansplatz) is a bustling hub where locals and visitors alike converge to soak in the city's vibrant atmosphere.
For those in search of a shopping experience like no other, Carinthian Street (Karntner StraĂźe) is a must-visit destination. This historic thoroughfare is lined with an array of shops, boutiques, and cafes, making it the perfect place to indulge in some retail therapy or savor a cup of Vienna's famous coffee.
Music enthusiasts will find their haven at the House of Music (Haus der Musik), which offers an immersive journey through the world of sound and classical compositions. Vienna's deep-rooted connection to music is further exemplified by Saint Charles' Church (Karlskirche), a Baroque masterpiece known for its breathtaking frescoes and an extraordinary acoustic design that sets the stage for magnificent concerts.
And then there's the Belvedere Palace, a testament to Vienna's imperial history. This architectural marvel is home to a stunning art collection, including the world-renowned works of Gustav Klimt, particularly "The Kiss." The palace and its extensive gardens showcase the opulence of the Habsburg dynasty.
Vienna is a city that seamlessly blends tradition and modernity, offering a multitude of experiences for every type of traveler. On the second part of our self-guided introductory walk, we're excited to introduce you further to this magnificent European gem. As you delve into the Viennese “art of living” (Lebenskunst), you will realize that despite changing rulers and times, Vienna has retained almost the same pace and much the same style as centuries ago.
How it works: Download the app "şÚÁĎłÔąĎÍř: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store to your mobile phone or tablet. The app turns your mobile device into a personal tour guide and its built-in GPS navigation functions guide you from one tour stop to next. The app works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.
Vienna Introduction Walking Tour II Map
Guide Name: Vienna Introduction Walking Tour II
Guide Location: Austria » Vienna (See other walking tours in Vienna)
Guide Type: Self-guided Walking Tour (Sightseeing)
# of Attractions: 6
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.7 Km or 1.7 Miles
Author: DanaOffice
Sight(s) Featured in This Guide:
Guide Location: Austria » Vienna (See other walking tours in Vienna)
Guide Type: Self-guided Walking Tour (Sightseeing)
# of Attractions: 6
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.7 Km or 1.7 Miles
Author: DanaOffice
Sight(s) Featured in This Guide:
- Stephansdom (St. Stephen's Cathedral)
- Stephansplatz (St. Stephen's Square)
- Karntner StraĂźe (Carinthian Street)
- Haus der Musik (House of Music)
- Karlskirche (St. Karl's Church)
- Belvedere Palace
1) Stephansdom (St. Stephen's Cathedral) (must see)
In a city where “stunning architecture” is practically the dress code, Saint Stephen’s Cathedral still manages to steal the spotlight—and possibly your neck muscles too, as you crane to admire that towering spire. Known locally as Stephansdom, this Gothic-Romanesque powerhouse has stood at the heart of Vienna’s skyline and soul since 1147, rising on the bones of two earlier churches like the overachiever it is.
In the 14th century, Duke Rudolf IV decided the cathedral needed a serious makeover. The idea worked. As a result, today we have the building stretching 107 meters long, 40 meters wide, and topped by the South Tower—or “Steffl,” if you're on nickname terms—a 136-meter-high feat of medieval determination that took 65 years to complete. It even moonlighted as a lookout post during Vienna’s sieges, complete with a live-in watchman until 1955. One heck of a long shift...
Meanwhile, the North Tower never quite hit its growth spurt. It stalled at 68 meters and got a Renaissance hat in 1578—basically the architectural equivalent of saying “this is fine” and walking away.
But the real showstopper here is the roof. A kaleidoscope of 230,000 glazed tiles arranged into imperial emblems like the double-headed eagle of the Habsburgs and the crests of Vienna and Austria. After being torched in World War II, it was rebuilt with steel instead of wood—600 metric tons of it—making the new roof not just durable, but also self-cleaning. Because even cathedrals love low-maintenance routines...
Inside, things get just as grand. There’s Pummerin, Europe’s second-largest swinging bell, forged from Turkish cannons in 1711 and recast in 1951—because nothing says peace like a bell made from wartime leftovers. Oh, and she lives in the North Tower, ringing out for special moments and daily rituals.
Musical legends haunt these hallowed halls too: Beethoven figured out he was deaf here (tragic), Haydn sang here as a kid (sweet), Strauss got married here—twice (bold), and Mozart? He got married and buried here. Yes, Saint Stephen's is basically the VIP lounge of Viennese music history.
Inside, you’ll find 18 altars, miraculous icons, bone relics—including those of Saint Valentine—and a maze of crypts holding 11,000 souls, including Habsburg royalty.
Tip:
Do a lap around the outside. Gargoyles, engravings, medieval graffiti—you never know what stories the stones will whisper...
In the 14th century, Duke Rudolf IV decided the cathedral needed a serious makeover. The idea worked. As a result, today we have the building stretching 107 meters long, 40 meters wide, and topped by the South Tower—or “Steffl,” if you're on nickname terms—a 136-meter-high feat of medieval determination that took 65 years to complete. It even moonlighted as a lookout post during Vienna’s sieges, complete with a live-in watchman until 1955. One heck of a long shift...
Meanwhile, the North Tower never quite hit its growth spurt. It stalled at 68 meters and got a Renaissance hat in 1578—basically the architectural equivalent of saying “this is fine” and walking away.
But the real showstopper here is the roof. A kaleidoscope of 230,000 glazed tiles arranged into imperial emblems like the double-headed eagle of the Habsburgs and the crests of Vienna and Austria. After being torched in World War II, it was rebuilt with steel instead of wood—600 metric tons of it—making the new roof not just durable, but also self-cleaning. Because even cathedrals love low-maintenance routines...
Inside, things get just as grand. There’s Pummerin, Europe’s second-largest swinging bell, forged from Turkish cannons in 1711 and recast in 1951—because nothing says peace like a bell made from wartime leftovers. Oh, and she lives in the North Tower, ringing out for special moments and daily rituals.
Musical legends haunt these hallowed halls too: Beethoven figured out he was deaf here (tragic), Haydn sang here as a kid (sweet), Strauss got married here—twice (bold), and Mozart? He got married and buried here. Yes, Saint Stephen's is basically the VIP lounge of Viennese music history.
Inside, you’ll find 18 altars, miraculous icons, bone relics—including those of Saint Valentine—and a maze of crypts holding 11,000 souls, including Habsburg royalty.
Tip:
Do a lap around the outside. Gargoyles, engravings, medieval graffiti—you never know what stories the stones will whisper...
2) Stephansplatz (St. Stephen's Square)
St. Stephen's Square—Vienna’s beating heart—is the kind of square that doesn’t just mark the center of the city, but commands it with flair.
Named after the towering St. Stephen’s Cathedral, a Gothic powerhouse of stone and spire, this cathedral is not merely Vienna’s main church—it’s one of the tallest in the world. Basically, if you're anywhere nearby and don’t see it, check your glasses...
Back in the day—before the 20th century, that is—this square and the nearby Stock-im-Eisen-Platz were awkward neighbors separated by a row of buildings. Those were eventually knocked down, and voilà , a grand unification. Now, St. Stephen's Square graciously includes the whole area, like a generous host absorbing the entire block party.
To the west and south, the scene gets posh with Graben Street (which literally translates as "the Ditch," though it’s far more champagne than shovel these days) and Carinthian Street, named so after the Carinthia region of Austria, but now better known for shopping that could make your wallet nervous.
And then there’s Haas Haus, lounging across from St. Stephen’s Cathedral like the cool, modern cousin at a family reunion. Designed by Hans Hollein and made of glass, steel, and unapologetic modernism, it was once the source of much civic side-eye. Now it’s celebrated as the poster child for architectural harmony: medieval meets mirror-polished millennium.
While this square may not be the best location for fine dining—unless your idea of haute cuisine is a schnitzel sandwich—sitting in one of the local cafés provides you with the front row for the city’s greatest spectacle: the people of Vienna. Locals, tourists, street performers, and the occasional opera enthusiast all sweep through under the cathedral’s watchful gaze.
So pull up a chair, order something strong, and take it all in—because this is more than just a square. It’s Vienna condensed...
Tip:
Stroll around the cathedral’s side and you’ll find its miniature version. It’s like someone said, “Let’s make it travel-sized,” and it’s oddly satisfying. Great for photos, or just for pretending you’re a giant for a moment.
Named after the towering St. Stephen’s Cathedral, a Gothic powerhouse of stone and spire, this cathedral is not merely Vienna’s main church—it’s one of the tallest in the world. Basically, if you're anywhere nearby and don’t see it, check your glasses...
Back in the day—before the 20th century, that is—this square and the nearby Stock-im-Eisen-Platz were awkward neighbors separated by a row of buildings. Those were eventually knocked down, and voilà , a grand unification. Now, St. Stephen's Square graciously includes the whole area, like a generous host absorbing the entire block party.
To the west and south, the scene gets posh with Graben Street (which literally translates as "the Ditch," though it’s far more champagne than shovel these days) and Carinthian Street, named so after the Carinthia region of Austria, but now better known for shopping that could make your wallet nervous.
And then there’s Haas Haus, lounging across from St. Stephen’s Cathedral like the cool, modern cousin at a family reunion. Designed by Hans Hollein and made of glass, steel, and unapologetic modernism, it was once the source of much civic side-eye. Now it’s celebrated as the poster child for architectural harmony: medieval meets mirror-polished millennium.
While this square may not be the best location for fine dining—unless your idea of haute cuisine is a schnitzel sandwich—sitting in one of the local cafés provides you with the front row for the city’s greatest spectacle: the people of Vienna. Locals, tourists, street performers, and the occasional opera enthusiast all sweep through under the cathedral’s watchful gaze.
So pull up a chair, order something strong, and take it all in—because this is more than just a square. It’s Vienna condensed...
Tip:
Stroll around the cathedral’s side and you’ll find its miniature version. It’s like someone said, “Let’s make it travel-sized,” and it’s oddly satisfying. Great for photos, or just for pretending you’re a giant for a moment.
3) Karntner StraĂźe (Carinthian Street)
Some may regard Carinthian Street as Vienna’s answer to the question: “What if shopping felt like strolling through a history book with a platinum credit card?” As one leg of the city’s so-called “Golden U” (alongside the Graben and Kohlmarkt), this pedestrian paradise isn’t just about luxury bags and pastry breaks—it’s a street with serious pedigree.
Indeed, its roots are deep. We’re talking Roman-deep. First mentioned in 1257 as Strata Carinthianorum, it once served as a vital lifeline between Vienna’s city center and the Carinthian Gate, just around where the Vienna State Opera raises its curtain today. Back in the day, this was the road to the Mediterranean, linking traders to port cities like Venice and Trieste. So yes, shopping here has always had a bit of flair.
Named after the southern Austrian state of Carinthia, the street has worn many hats over the centuries. But it hit its architectural stride in the 19th century when Vienna said, “Let’s go big or go baroque.” The street was expanded, lined with palatial buildings, and decked out in full historicist regalia—dramatic façades and a flair for the ornate.
Then came World War II, and with it, devastation. Carinthian Street was badly damaged and later rebuilt with a sleek, modernist look—minimalist, functional, and, let’s be honest, a little less theatrical. But Vienna being Vienna, it didn’t stay plain for long...
In 1974, the city waved goodbye to cars and hello to café-lined promenades as Carinthian Street was reborn as a pedestrian zone, perfectly synced with the arrival of the U-Bahn below.
Today, it’s the city’s cultural catwalk. You’ve got the Vienna State Opera, Todesco Palace, Equitable Palace, the legendary Hotel Sacher (home of that devilishly good chocolate cake), and quieter gems like the Maltese Church and Esterházy Palace.
So whether you’re here for the architecture, the fashion, the music, or just a slice of Sacher Torte (that could bring a tear to your eye), Carinthian Street offers you Vienna in its full, glamorous stride. Just keep walking...
Indeed, its roots are deep. We’re talking Roman-deep. First mentioned in 1257 as Strata Carinthianorum, it once served as a vital lifeline between Vienna’s city center and the Carinthian Gate, just around where the Vienna State Opera raises its curtain today. Back in the day, this was the road to the Mediterranean, linking traders to port cities like Venice and Trieste. So yes, shopping here has always had a bit of flair.
Named after the southern Austrian state of Carinthia, the street has worn many hats over the centuries. But it hit its architectural stride in the 19th century when Vienna said, “Let’s go big or go baroque.” The street was expanded, lined with palatial buildings, and decked out in full historicist regalia—dramatic façades and a flair for the ornate.
Then came World War II, and with it, devastation. Carinthian Street was badly damaged and later rebuilt with a sleek, modernist look—minimalist, functional, and, let’s be honest, a little less theatrical. But Vienna being Vienna, it didn’t stay plain for long...
In 1974, the city waved goodbye to cars and hello to café-lined promenades as Carinthian Street was reborn as a pedestrian zone, perfectly synced with the arrival of the U-Bahn below.
Today, it’s the city’s cultural catwalk. You’ve got the Vienna State Opera, Todesco Palace, Equitable Palace, the legendary Hotel Sacher (home of that devilishly good chocolate cake), and quieter gems like the Maltese Church and Esterházy Palace.
So whether you’re here for the architecture, the fashion, the music, or just a slice of Sacher Torte (that could bring a tear to your eye), Carinthian Street offers you Vienna in its full, glamorous stride. Just keep walking...
4) Haus der Musik (House of Music)
In Vienna’s House of Music—history hums, composers gossip from the walls, and even the staircase plays along...
Housed in the former Archduke Karl Palace, this sonic playground opened its doors in the year 2000, sprawling over 5,000 square meters of auditory intrigue. It’s part museum, part time machine, and part science lab—perfectly pitched between highbrow and hands-on. Here, you can expect everything from Viennese classicism to the wild evolution of sound, all woven together with the story of the mighty Vienna Philharmonic.
The building itself has had quite a life. Born in the 16th century as an imperial cannon foundry (really!), it later became home to Archduke Karl of Austria-Teschen, famous not only for his military victories but for being the first Habsburg to bring a Christmas tree indoors. A few centuries later, the place morphed into a student residence, then a cultural hotspot, and finally, the palace of music we know today.
Your journey begins through a stately courtyard, where a grand piano welcomes you with all the grace of a tuxedoed maître d’hôtel. Inside, prepare to tickle the ivories yourself—literally—on the "Stairplay" piano staircase, where each step strikes a note.
On the first floor, you’ll meet the Vienna Philharmonic—not in person, but close. Dive into its glittering history with rare memorabilia, cheeky concert posters, and even an hourly cinema. Don’t miss the Mozart & Haydn dice game—it’s musical composition by chance, and surprisingly addictive.
Head up to Sonotopia on the second floor, a wonderland of sound science. From the Origin Room to the Wave Tube, it’s a sensory playground that explains why your ears are amazing and how sound gets from a vibrating string to your brain.
The third floor is a love letter to Vienna’s musical Classicism—Haydn, Mozart, Beethoven, and the gang. Peek into their lives via personal relics, funky holograms, and charming recreations of their 18th-century hangouts.
And for the finale, the fourth floor hands you the baton—literally—with the Virtual Conductor, where you can lead the Vienna Philharmonic yourself (they won’t judge your tempo, promise). Wind down in the Room of Silence, or hit the gift shop for souvenirs that sound as good as they look.
In short: music lives here—and it’s got stories to sing...
Housed in the former Archduke Karl Palace, this sonic playground opened its doors in the year 2000, sprawling over 5,000 square meters of auditory intrigue. It’s part museum, part time machine, and part science lab—perfectly pitched between highbrow and hands-on. Here, you can expect everything from Viennese classicism to the wild evolution of sound, all woven together with the story of the mighty Vienna Philharmonic.
The building itself has had quite a life. Born in the 16th century as an imperial cannon foundry (really!), it later became home to Archduke Karl of Austria-Teschen, famous not only for his military victories but for being the first Habsburg to bring a Christmas tree indoors. A few centuries later, the place morphed into a student residence, then a cultural hotspot, and finally, the palace of music we know today.
Your journey begins through a stately courtyard, where a grand piano welcomes you with all the grace of a tuxedoed maître d’hôtel. Inside, prepare to tickle the ivories yourself—literally—on the "Stairplay" piano staircase, where each step strikes a note.
On the first floor, you’ll meet the Vienna Philharmonic—not in person, but close. Dive into its glittering history with rare memorabilia, cheeky concert posters, and even an hourly cinema. Don’t miss the Mozart & Haydn dice game—it’s musical composition by chance, and surprisingly addictive.
Head up to Sonotopia on the second floor, a wonderland of sound science. From the Origin Room to the Wave Tube, it’s a sensory playground that explains why your ears are amazing and how sound gets from a vibrating string to your brain.
The third floor is a love letter to Vienna’s musical Classicism—Haydn, Mozart, Beethoven, and the gang. Peek into their lives via personal relics, funky holograms, and charming recreations of their 18th-century hangouts.
And for the finale, the fourth floor hands you the baton—literally—with the Virtual Conductor, where you can lead the Vienna Philharmonic yourself (they won’t judge your tempo, promise). Wind down in the Room of Silence, or hit the gift shop for souvenirs that sound as good as they look.
In short: music lives here—and it’s got stories to sing...
5) Karlskirche (St. Karl's Church)
Vienna’s unapologetic showpiece of Baroque drama perched on the southern edge of Karl's Square, the dazzling Saint Karl’s Church is like a powdered wig on a powdered face. Commissioned in 1713 by Emperor Karl VI as a divine “thank you” for surviving the plague, this architectural stunner is dedicated to Karl Borromeo, a 16th-century saint famous for fighting epidemics and spiritual malaise in equal measure.
Now, if you’re sensing a bit of a style mash-up, you’re absolutely right. Completed in 1737, the church is part Roman temple, part imperial flex. It flaunts a lofty elongated dome, flanked by twin columns that look like they’ve time-traveled straight from ancient Rome—specifically modeled after Trajan’s Column, but with a Baroque Viennese twist. The columns aren’t just decorative—they’re a not-so-subtle nod to the Habsburgs’ self-image: as mighty as the mythological Pillars of Hercules.
Step inside, and you're wrapped in marble, gold, and the kind of symbolic artistry that screams “imperial ambition meets holy devotion.” Look up, and you’ll see a dramatic fresco of Saint Karl interceding on behalf of humanity—because why keep your miracles subtle? The pulpit, carved from rich walnut, is a storytelling masterpiece of its own, fully restored in the early 2000s to show off every curve and flourish in glorious detail.
Still, Saint Karl’s isn’t just about stone and symbolism—it’s got star power, too. Composer Antonio Vivaldi, who died nearby in 1741, is honored here with regular concerts that make the walls practically hum with violins. In 1878, Johann Strauss said “I do” to his second wife at this very altar… although she didn’t care much for his music, which probably explains why she said “I don’t” four years later. Oh, and Hollywood legend Hedy Lamarr got hitched here in 1933—just in case you needed one more reason to stare at the pews.
So, regardless of whether you're here for the saints, the stucco, or the scandals, Saint Karl’s Church delivers Baroque brilliance with a Viennese wink all the same...
Tip:
Yes, there’s an entry fee, but it's absolutely worth it (students, rejoice—discounts apply).
A nifty elevator takes you right up to the dome, where you can admire the ceiling frescoes face-to-face. And don’t forget to sneak a peek out the dome window—the view of Vienna alone is worth the ride...
Now, if you’re sensing a bit of a style mash-up, you’re absolutely right. Completed in 1737, the church is part Roman temple, part imperial flex. It flaunts a lofty elongated dome, flanked by twin columns that look like they’ve time-traveled straight from ancient Rome—specifically modeled after Trajan’s Column, but with a Baroque Viennese twist. The columns aren’t just decorative—they’re a not-so-subtle nod to the Habsburgs’ self-image: as mighty as the mythological Pillars of Hercules.
Step inside, and you're wrapped in marble, gold, and the kind of symbolic artistry that screams “imperial ambition meets holy devotion.” Look up, and you’ll see a dramatic fresco of Saint Karl interceding on behalf of humanity—because why keep your miracles subtle? The pulpit, carved from rich walnut, is a storytelling masterpiece of its own, fully restored in the early 2000s to show off every curve and flourish in glorious detail.
Still, Saint Karl’s isn’t just about stone and symbolism—it’s got star power, too. Composer Antonio Vivaldi, who died nearby in 1741, is honored here with regular concerts that make the walls practically hum with violins. In 1878, Johann Strauss said “I do” to his second wife at this very altar… although she didn’t care much for his music, which probably explains why she said “I don’t” four years later. Oh, and Hollywood legend Hedy Lamarr got hitched here in 1933—just in case you needed one more reason to stare at the pews.
So, regardless of whether you're here for the saints, the stucco, or the scandals, Saint Karl’s Church delivers Baroque brilliance with a Viennese wink all the same...
Tip:
Yes, there’s an entry fee, but it's absolutely worth it (students, rejoice—discounts apply).
A nifty elevator takes you right up to the dome, where you can admire the ceiling frescoes face-to-face. And don’t forget to sneak a peek out the dome window—the view of Vienna alone is worth the ride...
6) Belvedere Palace (must see)
Originally designed as a summer residence for Prince Eugene of Savoy, who apparently felt a standard palace simply wouldn't cut it, this lavish complex was built after Vienna stopped fending off Ottoman invasions and started flexing its imperial muscles in stone, stucco, and cascading fountains.
The Belvedere isn’t just one palace—it’s a full-on ensemble performance: Upper and Lower Belvedere, an Orangery for your fancy citrus needs, and palace stables fit for horses with noble bloodlines. All of it is wrapped in a park so meticulously designed, you’d think every hedge was hand-trimmed by a powdered wig.
Construction kicked off in 1712 with the Lower Belvedere, but things really got dramatic in 1717 when the Upper Belvedere was added—basically a Baroque ballroom with serious diplomatic swagger. Frescoes, gilded ceilings, and artwork by the who’s who of 18th-century painters helped Eugene throw parties that whispered, “empire” with every flute of champagne.
After Prince Eugene passed in 1736, the place got a second act as a Habsburg hangout, hosting royal refugees escaping the French Revolution and later transforming into one of Europe’s earliest public museums, thanks to Maria Theresa and Joseph II.
Fast forward to the 20th century: the Belvedere went national after World War I, becoming the proud home of Austria’s classical and modern art collections. World War II wasn’t kind to it—bombings left their mark—but meticulous restoration from 1945 through the '90s brought the glory back, detail by plastered detail.
Today, the Belvedere is a major world-class museum. Its galleries span centuries, from medieval devotionals to cutting-edge modernism. And yes, Gustav Klimt’s "The Kiss" lives here too, alongside his equally iconic "Judith." You’ll also find a respectable crowd of French Impressionists and Biedermeier charmers holding court on the walls.
It's in equal measure for those who appreciate architecture, arts, or just seek to pretend they’re 18th-century nobility strolling through your summer garden... The Belvedere delivers all of this with a flourish. So go ahead—wander, gaze, and maybe channel your inner prince or princess.
Tip:
If you don’t enjoy queuing in the sun, grab your tickets online. And for the love of Baroque opulence, don’t skip the gardens—those cascading fountains and smug statues have been waiting centuries for your admiration...
The Belvedere isn’t just one palace—it’s a full-on ensemble performance: Upper and Lower Belvedere, an Orangery for your fancy citrus needs, and palace stables fit for horses with noble bloodlines. All of it is wrapped in a park so meticulously designed, you’d think every hedge was hand-trimmed by a powdered wig.
Construction kicked off in 1712 with the Lower Belvedere, but things really got dramatic in 1717 when the Upper Belvedere was added—basically a Baroque ballroom with serious diplomatic swagger. Frescoes, gilded ceilings, and artwork by the who’s who of 18th-century painters helped Eugene throw parties that whispered, “empire” with every flute of champagne.
After Prince Eugene passed in 1736, the place got a second act as a Habsburg hangout, hosting royal refugees escaping the French Revolution and later transforming into one of Europe’s earliest public museums, thanks to Maria Theresa and Joseph II.
Fast forward to the 20th century: the Belvedere went national after World War I, becoming the proud home of Austria’s classical and modern art collections. World War II wasn’t kind to it—bombings left their mark—but meticulous restoration from 1945 through the '90s brought the glory back, detail by plastered detail.
Today, the Belvedere is a major world-class museum. Its galleries span centuries, from medieval devotionals to cutting-edge modernism. And yes, Gustav Klimt’s "The Kiss" lives here too, alongside his equally iconic "Judith." You’ll also find a respectable crowd of French Impressionists and Biedermeier charmers holding court on the walls.
It's in equal measure for those who appreciate architecture, arts, or just seek to pretend they’re 18th-century nobility strolling through your summer garden... The Belvedere delivers all of this with a flourish. So go ahead—wander, gaze, and maybe channel your inner prince or princess.
Tip:
If you don’t enjoy queuing in the sun, grab your tickets online. And for the love of Baroque opulence, don’t skip the gardens—those cascading fountains and smug statues have been waiting centuries for your admiration...
Walking Tours in Vienna, Austria
Create Your Own Walk in Vienna
Creating your own self-guided walk in Vienna is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Mozart Walking Tour
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart spent a significant portion of his life in Vienna. Here, he achieved recognition, and the city holds enormous historical and cultural significance for his legacy. Mozart first visited Vienna as a child prodigy in 1762, and in 1781 came here to stay.
The city met the composer with a vibrant and cosmopolitan atmosphere brought about by some of the top musicians and artists... view more
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.0 Km or 1.2 Miles
The city met the composer with a vibrant and cosmopolitan atmosphere brought about by some of the top musicians and artists... view more
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.0 Km or 1.2 Miles
Vienna Old Town Walking Tour
Vienna’s Old Town—the historic core of Austria’s capital and a UNESCO World Heritage Site—is where cobblestones gossip, rooftops sparkle, and emperors still seem to whisper from the walls. Indeed, this is the kind of place where every alley seems to have a PhD in European history.
Once wrapped in medieval walls—before they rolled out the grand Ringstrasse boulevard in the 19th... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.9 Km or 1.8 Miles
Once wrapped in medieval walls—before they rolled out the grand Ringstrasse boulevard in the 19th... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.9 Km or 1.8 Miles
Old Town Churches Walking Tour
"Vienna is the city of miracles and music" – Whoever said that must have emphasized Vienna's close association with the Christian faith. The intertwining of Christian heritage and artistry in the Austrian capital finds expression primarily in its magnificent churches.
Sitting at "the crossroads of Christian traditions", Vienna is home to various Christian... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.9 Km or 2.4 Miles
Sitting at "the crossroads of Christian traditions", Vienna is home to various Christian... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.9 Km or 2.4 Miles
Old Town Chocolate Stores
Vienna is famous for its love for sweet indulgence. And when it comes to chocolate, it stands tall among other locally-made mouth-watering confections.
Vienna's chocolate scene is deeply rooted in a rich culinary tradition. It has been sustained by several historic chocolate houses, located in the Old Town, that have been serving decadent treats for generations.
Landmark... view more
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 1.2 Km or 0.7 Miles
Vienna's chocolate scene is deeply rooted in a rich culinary tradition. It has been sustained by several historic chocolate houses, located in the Old Town, that have been serving decadent treats for generations.
Landmark... view more
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 1.2 Km or 0.7 Miles
Vienna's Art Nouveau Architecture Tour II
If there are cities that flirt, Vienna is definitely the one. Here, even the buildings know how to do it.
Around the turn of the 20th century, the Austrian capital caught the Art Nouveau fever and decided that straight lines, drab walls, and historical imitation simply wouldn’t do anymore. Instead, it took to ornamental swirls, flowing curves, floral flourishes, and enough decorative detail... view more
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.0 Km or 1.2 Miles
Around the turn of the 20th century, the Austrian capital caught the Art Nouveau fever and decided that straight lines, drab walls, and historical imitation simply wouldn’t do anymore. Instead, it took to ornamental swirls, flowing curves, floral flourishes, and enough decorative detail... view more
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.0 Km or 1.2 Miles
Johann Strauss Walking Tour
Throughout the entire 19th century, Vienna was a hub of cultural and musical activity, particularly in the realm of classical music, to which Johann Strauss and his father, Johann Strauss Sr., contributed greatly.
Strauss, the son had a personal connection with Vienna deeply rooted in its cultural fabric. Not only was he born here and spent most of his life, but also he achieved tremendous... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 4.1 Km or 2.5 Miles
Strauss, the son had a personal connection with Vienna deeply rooted in its cultural fabric. Not only was he born here and spent most of his life, but also he achieved tremendous... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 4.1 Km or 2.5 Miles
Useful Travel Guides for Planning Your Trip
Top 15 Austrian Things to Buy in Vienna
Vienna stool, Viennese schnitzel, Viennese waltz, Vienna sausage, Viennese apple strudel... There's so much Vienna to it, that you might think you've heard it all. Luckily, chances are that you haven't and there's much more in store left to be discovered about this fascinating...
7 Ultimately Austrian Foods to Taste in Vienna
Once the center of the vast Hapsburg Empire, stretched from France in the West to Russia in the East, Austria has embraced many ethnic influences in its cuisine over the course of centuries. Many of the country's distinctive dishes reflect its multinational heritage. Coffee culture, for...
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