Nouveauté
From
45 €
3 Days in Vienna: The Best Itinerary for Your Visit
Table of contents
The Best Things to Do with 3 Days in Vienna
Itinerary in Vienna: day 1
Explore Vienna's historic Old Town district
Known as Innere Stadt, Vienna's UNESCO World Heritage Site Old Town district is encircled by the Ringstrasse and is home to many buildings of historic importance and a variety of art galleries, upscale shopping outlets, restaurants and cafés. Iconic architectural styles abound in the area, with examples of Medieval, Baroque and Art Nouveau blending in a stunning tapestry. A thorough exploration of this vibrant area is the perfect way to start your 3 days in Vienna itinerary. Kärntner Strasse is the main entrance to the district and is known for its many historic facades. You also want to check out Stephansdom before heading down Graben Street to view the stunning town palaces and designer storefronts. The great thing about many of these areas is the fact that they are pedestrianized to make them easy to traverse on foot.
St Stephen’s Cathedral
Located in the Stephansplatz, St Stephen's Cathedral is the most iconic church in Vienna. The history of the site goes back to a parish church that was built there in 1147. The current Gothic and Romanesque cathedral was built between 1339 and 1365. The massive main tower dominates the surrounding area and can be seen across the city. It is the tallest of its kind in Austria. Be sure to check out the intricately decorated roof that features hundreds of colourful tiles arranged in a variety of stunning patterns. Within the cathedral, you will find 18 altars and several small chapels. There are also tombs and catacombs located within. For a fee, you can take the lift up the north tower of the church, or you can ascend to the top of the south one by climbing 343 stairs. The views you will discover are definitely worth it.
Itinerary in Vienna: day 2
Naschmarkt
Start the 2nd leg of your 3 days in Vienna itinerary by exploring a vibrant outdoor marketplace. Located on Wienzeile Street, the Naschmarkt stretches on for nearly 1.5 kilometres. You will find a huge array of stalls with vendors selling everything from fresh vegetables and fruits to seafood and artisan cheeses. Take some time to soak in the energetic atmosphere as you explore this grand market that is renowned across the globe. The best time to visit is in the morning as the crowds are smaller, and it is easier to wander around at a leisurely pace while taking photos, looking for unique souvenirs and tasting treats.
Natural History Museum Vienna
After spending an enjoyable morning exploring the Naschmarkt, it is time to head to the renowned Natural History Museum Vienna. It is located in a historic palace complex and houses a huge collection of fossils, precious stones, meteorite fragments, skeletons and minerals, with unique displays that focus on animals ranging from mammals and insects to extinct species. This is a great attraction for adults and kids, with more than 30 million fascinating objects that you can view. There is also a digital planetarium on-site where you can learn about the way that the Earth developed over its history. When you are done immersing yourself in topics ranging from prehistory, geology and dinosaurs, you can head to the museum shop or grab a bite to eat at the café.
Itinerary in Vienna: day 3
Schönbrunn Palace
Build in the 1600s, Schönbrunn Palace is one of the most important buildings in the history of Austria. The colossal structure has a total of 1441 rooms. It is considered a must-visit location for any first-time traveller to the area. The palace has served as the royal residence for the famed House of Habsburg. Past emperors have been born within the complex throughout its long history. During your visit, make note of the Baroque architectural style that was implemented in the construction. The main building features hundreds of windows, and its roof is adorned with statues. When you step inside, you will find an array of lavishly furnished rooms as you gain a glimpse into the way that Austrian royalty lived in the past.
Explore Vienna's best dining and nightlife
Wrap up your unforgettable 3 days in Vienna itinerary by exploring the best dining and nightlife that the city has to offer. A fun-filled nighttime adventure is a great way to conclude your break. The good news is the fact that Vienna is renowned as a world-class culinary destination where you can find the best Austrian and international cuisine. There is no shortage of bars, nightclubs and music venues where you can celebrate your holiday. We recommend starting the evening by heading to the Old Town district for a memorable meal. Recommended eateries include Figlmüller. This is the perfect place to try an authentic schnitzel. If you fancy Indian food, check out In-Dish for a restaurant that is putting a unique spin on this traditional cuisine. You can even enjoy Spanish tapas at Lola. After your meal, keep things going by finding your perfect party hotspot. Recommended bars include Top Kino, the Onyx Bar and Kleinod. If you are looking for a nightclub, you will find popular options like Flex and Celeste.
Places to visit around Vienna
The Wachau Valley
Located about 1 hour from Vienna, you will find the stunning Wachau Valley. This World Heritage Site is home to magical scenery and has a storied history. It extends for around 40 kilometres between the towns of Krems and Melk, with the Danube River crossing past its picturesque villages, monasteries and castles. An exploration of the area is a great side trip for your 3 days in Vienna itinerary and the perfect opportunity to get out of the city for a bit.
Grinzing
Only 17 kilometres from the city, you will find the village of Grinzing. It is a historic community that has been mentioned in records that go back to 1114. Throughout its existence, the town has seen numerous wars and has been rebuilt many times because of this. The buildings in the current village mostly date to the 19th century. You can easily spend several hours just wandering its winding streets. Before you leave, head to one of the traditional Austrian restaurants for mouth-watering delights.
Where to stay in Vienna
1. The Ritz-Carlton Vienna 5*
The Ritz-Carlton Vienna 5* is home to 201 luxuriously furnished guest rooms and suites. The property features elegant interiors and ornate architecture. It is located in the heart of the city on Ringstrasse Boulevard.
Enjoy a range of hotel features that include a lift, spa facilities, a fitness centre, a sauna, Wi-Fi, multilingual staff, air conditioning, a 24-hour reception desk and 4 restaurants/bars. You can also look forward to in-room features like a coffee machine, bathrobes and a courtesy tray of tea/coffee.
What we like: We love this property's 5-star services, its prime location in the heart of the city and the included ticket to Mozart's House.
2. SO / Vienna 5*
You can choose from 182 elegant rooms and suites when you select the SO / Vienna 5* for your 3-day itinerary. The hotel features stunning views of the city and offers a range of 5-star amenities.
The hotel's features include outdoor parking, multilingual staff, Wi-Fi, a lift, air conditioning, a laundry service, luggage storage, a spa, a fitness centre, a sauna, a Jacuzzi and 3 bar and restaurant facilities. You will enjoy in-room amenities like a safe, a mini-fridge and a coffee machine.
What we like: We love this property's pristine spa, its outstanding rooftop dining options and the panoramic views that can be enjoyed when you arrange a 3-day stay in Vienna.
3. Andaz Vienna Am Belvedere 5*
With 303 comfortable rooms and suites to choose from, the Andaz Vienna Am Belvedere 5* is another top-rated pick for your 3-day itinerary to the Austrian capital. The property is close to the area's most iconic attractions and features a wellness centre where you can unwind after a day spent exploring.
The property's facilities include 3 restaurants/bars, a concierge service, Wi-Fi, press/magazines, air conditioning, a laundry service, a 24-hour reception desk and multilingual staff. Rooms are equipped with a coffee machine, a kettle, bathrobes, a mini-fridge and a hairdryer.
What we like: We love the spacious, stylish rooms offered at the Andaz Vienna Am Belvedere 5*. The on-site wellness centre and a range of optional excursions enhance this option.
4. Le Méridien Vienna 5*
Located in the city's 1st District, the Le Méridien Vienna 5* is home to 294 rooms and suites with modern décor that feature views of the property's courtyard and the city. Enjoy a range of 5-star facilities and proximity to top points of interest during your 3-day stay in Vienna.
This stunning property is located in the heart of Vienna and features Wi-Fi, currency exchange, air conditioning, press/magazines, a concierge service, a laundry service, a breakfast buffet at Sala Terrena, the YOU Restaurant & Bar, spa facilities and an indoor swimming pool. Rooms come equipped with a mini-fridge, bathrobes, a coffee machine and a hair dryer.
What we like: We love the impressive range of wellness facilities that you can enjoy during your 3 days in Vienna itinerary booked through Voyage Privé.
5. InterContinental Vienna Hotel 5*
The InterContinental Vienna Hotel 5* features 459 guestrooms and 49 well-appointed suites to ensure a comfortable city break. A range of sought-after 5-star amenities adds further to this property with on-site dining options and a fitness centre.
Key features include multilingual staff, air conditioning, indoor parking, a laundry service, a medical service, currency exchange and a sauna. Rooms feature coffee machines, mini-fridges, safes and kettles.
What we like: We love the fact that this 5-star accommodation offers a fitness centre that is open 24 hours a day. An excellent range of dining and bar facilities is another plus that makes this an excellent choice for a 3 days in Vienna itinerary.
Practical tips for visiting Vienna
Vienna is home to many festivals throughout the year. You can find out if anything is on during your planned visit by visiting the official tourism website for the city. If you visit in early spring or late autumn, there is a high chance conditions will be rainy, so pack accordingly. You also need to include a travel plug adapter in your suitcase if you wish to use any of your devices and appliances that use a UK outlet. The local currency in Vienna is the euro, and the official language is German. On nights that you plan to dine out, we recommend booking a table in advance when possible. It is also worth noting that many shops in the city are closed on Sundays.
When to visit Vienna
Although the summer is the preferred time for many travellers heading to Vienna, it is also the season with the largest crowds and highest prices. For this reason, many visitors visit Vienna in April and May or September and October. The weather is pleasant during these windows, and there are fewer tourists.
How to get to Vienna
Daily departures are available from the United Kingdom's major travel hubs to Vienna International Airport. You can expect an average in-air time of around 2 hours and 25 minutes for non-stop flights. The four primary public transportation options that you can use during your trip include the subway, the tram, the local train and bus routes.
What to eat in Vienna
Vienna is one of Europe's top cities for food, and there are plenty of local favourites you must try during your 3-day itinerary. We have a few recommendations. They include the Austrian potato salad known as Erdäpfelsalat. It is prepared using chives, red onions, mustard and white wine vinegar and pairs wonderfully with popular foods like sausages, schnitzel and asparagus. Speaking of sausages, you also want to sample the iconic wiener wurstels during your visit. They are made from pork and beef and are served with mustard. For dessert, order the apfelstrudel (apple strudel). Vienna is also one of Europe's coffee capitals. Be sure to enjoy a few cups while on holiday.