For six centuries, Vienna was the centre of an empire that stretched over half of Europe. The Habsburgs left breathtaking palaces here, a passion for music — Mozart, Beethoven and Strauss all lived here — and an art of living where you take your time, over a coffee and a slice of Sachertorte. The Austrian capital breathes understated elegance.
Two days let you taste its grandeur and its gentleness. Here's our itinerary — find the visits on our what to do in Vienna page.
Day 1 — Imperial splendour: Schönbrunn & the centre
Start with Schönbrunn Palace, the Habsburgs' summer residence with its 1,400 rooms, where the future Empress Sissi grew up. Its gilded salons and French gardens, crowned by the Gloriette, take a whole morning. Then reach the historic centre and St Stephen's Cathedral, whose Gothic spire and glazed-tile roof have watched over the city since the Middle Ages.
In the evening, treat yourself to what Vienna does better than anyone: a classical music concert in a palace or a historic hall, to hear Mozart and Strauss where they were first played.
Schönbrunn & concerts in Vienna
Tickets for Schönbrunn Palace and classical music concerts.
Day 2 — Klimt, cafés and the art of living
Head to the Belvedere Palace, a baroque jewel that houses Gustav Klimt's The Kiss, one of the most famous paintings in the world, all gold leaf. Then take the time for a real Viennese café: in these charmingly old-fashioned institutions, you linger for hours with a newspaper, a mélange and a pastry — it's UNESCO-listed heritage, no less.
End with a stroll around the Museum Quarter (MuseumsQuartier) or along the Ring, the great circular avenue lined with monuments that replaced the old fortifications. Vienna is savoured slowly, like its Sachertorte.
Belvedere & tours of Vienna
Tickets for the Belvedere (Klimt), guided tours and Danube cruises.
