25 Absolutely Free Things to Do in Vienna, Austria (That You Can’t Miss)

Vienna Prater Free Things to do in Vienna

Vienna is not necessarily the cheapest city to visit. I am aware that accommodation and food can accumulate a pretty steep amount of expenses. Museum visits usually start at around 15 euros per entry, dinners often happen to be around 20 euros per meal, and don’t even get me started on hotel prices.

There is some good news though. You actually CAN visit Vienna on a budget!

And here comes the even greater news.

There are plenty of events and places here you can visit at absolutely no cost! During my time of living in Vienna , I have had the opportunity to take advantage of many of these free things to do in Vienna, and let me tell you, a few turned into some of my most favourite experiences.

I have compiled a list of 25 things you can do in Vienna for free, and there is something for everyone’s taste!

Table of Contents

Where to stay in Vienna

Since moving out of Vienna, I got to go back a few times, and each time I was on the hunt for the best budget options for accommodation. During our last trip to Vienna we booked this place and it was the best we’ve stayed at so far. We usually book apartments, as hotels tend to be slightly more expensive, but it all depends on your preferences and your budget. I strongly recommend Vienna Stay Apartments , as the location was very good (just a few stops away from the city centre by tram), the apartment was clean and it was also very warm (we were there in winter)

How to get around Vienna

Public transport in Vienna is incredible and you really don’t need to rent a car or take taxis. Here’s how much the tickets cost:

  • 24 hours: €8
  • 48 hours: €14.10
  • 72 hours: €17.10
  • 1 week (from Monday till Monday 9am!): €17.10

You can buy the tickets at the Wiener Linien offices, online from their website or from the Wien Mobil App.

If you’re planning on visiting quite a few museums, I recommend checking out Vienna City Card . It’s the local tourist card which includes the public transport + discounts to many museums, attractions, coffee shops and more. It’s useful for whenever you’re visiting some place that is not free. 😉

The Vienna City Card is the best option for families with children – for every card you buy, one child up to 15 y.o. can use the public transport for free.

Hofburg Vienna

25 Free Things to do in Vienna

1. take a free walking tour.

Just like many other European cities, Vienna gives tourists the opportunity to explore the city centre through free walking tours.

Taking a free walking tour is one of, if not, the best way to get to know a place and receive information and overview the quickest way possible. It is something I always recommend travellers to do, hence why I have put it as #1 on this list.

There are quite a few companies offering free tours in Vienna. Here are my top picks:

  • Good Tours: www.goodviennatours.eu
  • PrimeTours:     www.primetours.at
  • Red And White Tours: www.redandwhite.tours
  • Welcome Tour Vienna: www.welcometourvienna.at
  • Free Tour Vienna (Spanish only): www.freetourvienna.eu
  • Free Walking Tour (Italian only): www.viennaedintorni.com

2. Enjoy Vienna on two wheels

With its countless bike lanes, Vienna is a very bike-friendly city, which comes in handy not only for locals, but also for tourists. The CityBike initiative has turned renting a bike in Vienna into a child’s play.

You can practically ride a city bike for free. All you have to do is register (either online or at any citybike station in the city) with a credit card. The registration will cost you 1 euro, but afterwards you can rent a bike from any station in the city (and they are MANY), ride it for 1 hour for free, and drop it off at another station of your choice. If you happen to need the bike for longer than 1 hour, then just return it halfway through your journey, and get a new one – the hour will then restart.

Beware that if you keep it for longer, CityBike will charge you for every next hour.

3. Download Ivie – your free digital companion

As of recently, the Vienna Tourist Board released its new digital product – Ivie.

Ivie is an app which is jam packed with useful information about the city and guides you every step of the way during your trip. It can tell you everything about Vienna’s history, sights, important buildings and monuments.

It provides you with the option to create your own itinerary, save it on the map, and get priceless information while exploring.

Ivie also holds important information, such as bathrooms, drinking fountains, city bikes and more.

Download Ivie for Android and iOS now!

4. Admire the St. Stephen’s Cathedral

One of the most iconic buildings of Vienna is the stunning St. Stephen’s Cathedral. Luckily, you can admire the interiors of the cathedral for free, as there is no entry fee to go inside.

The only thing you would have to pay is if you want to go to the top of the towers. You might want to consider spending the small cost of about 5 euros, because the view from the top is beautiful.

While the St. Stephen’s Cathedral is free to visit, most attractions in Vienna aren’t. Book your ticket in advance and skip the line through here .

5. Experience the Beethoven Walk

The Tourist Info in Vienna offers its visitors the opportunity to go on a Beethoven walk around the city, taking you to places where the famous musician either lived or had something to do with.

All you have to do is go to the tourist information centre at Albertinaplatz and get a pair of glasses, which will be guiding you through an app. You need to have an iOS device in order to install the needed application.

You will also be asked for a personal ID card as a guarantee you’ll bring the glasses back.

Learn more about the Beethoven Walk here .

6. Visit the beautiful gardens of Schönbrunn Palace

Schönbrunn is one of the top places to see in Vienna, and what’s even more awesome is that its gardens are free to enter! A nice stroll up to the gloriette not only makes you feel like you’re in a fairytale, roaming around the gardens of a castle, but it also gives you a lovely view over the city.

Even though the entry to the castle itself isn’t for free, just walking around the gardens is, and it’s definitely a must.

Schoenbrunn palace Vienna

Strolling around the gardens of Schönbrunn is free, but I also highly recommend visiting the palace inside. And if you want to visit a few attractions in Vienna, save money on entry fees by booking a group ticket through here .

7. Go on a tour of the City Hall

Not many know about this, but you can actually visit the Vienna City Hall for free, and even have an audio guide at no cost.

The guided tours of this magnificent building happen every Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 13 o’clock. Tickets are being given away at the town hall from 7:30 am on the same day, and there is a limit of 80 people per tour. The tour language is German, but you can get an audio guide in English, French, Italian or Spanish – just make sure you have your ID with you as a deposit.

For further information visit their website .

8. Free museums on the first Sunday of the month

Many museums in Vienna offer a free entry on every first Sunday of the month. Here is a list:

  • Museum of Military History
  • Beethoven Museum, Probusgasse 6
  • Beethoven Pasqualati house, Mölker Bastei 8
  • Vienna Museum Karlsplatz, Karlsplatz 8
  • Haydnhaus (Haydn’s House), Haydngasse 19
  • Hermesvilla, Lainzer Tiergarten, closed in the winter
  • Johann Strauss Apartment, Praterstraße 54
  • Vienna Museum MUSA, Feldergasse 6-8
  • Neidhart Frescoes, Tuchlauben 19
  • Otto Wagner Hofpavillon Hietzing, Schönbrunner Schloßstraße, closed in the winter
  • Otto Wagner Pavillon Karlsplatz, closed in the winter
  • Pratermuseum, Oswald-Thomas-Platz 1, Planetarium
  • Roman museum, Hoher Markt 3
  • Schubert’s Birthplace, Nußdorfer Straße 54
  • Clock Museum, Schulhof 2
  • Vergilius Chapel, Stephansplatz

It’s always great when you get to visit a museum for free! However, the best museums in Vienna have an entry fee, and I highly recommend booking your ticket in advance here.

9. Free museums all year round

Some museums are also completely free to enter, among which:

  • Bezirksmuseen (Neighbourhood museums)
  • Museum of Bohemian Forest , Ungargasse 3
  • Circus- and Clownmuseum , Ilgplatz 7
  • The White House, Hegelgasse 14
  • Documentation Centre of Austrian Resistance , Wipplingerstraße 6
  • Fire Department Museum, Am Hof 7
  • Fishing Museum,  Einzingergasse 1a
  • FLIP – Erste Financial Life Park , Am Belvedere
  • Austrian Horticultural Museum Siebeckstraße 14
  • Memorial Room for the Victims of the Gestapo Vienna , Salztorgasse 6
  • Money Museum of the Austrian National Bank, Otto-Wagner-Platz 3
  • Museum of Jewellery Crafts and Technology,  Nußdorfer Straße 3/Stiege 2
  • Kahlenberg Museum , Kirche St. Josef
  • MUSA Art Library, Felderstraße 6-8
  • Museum Aspern-Essling 1809 , Asperner Heldenplatz 9
  • Phono Museum , Mollardgasse 8/2/16
  • Chimney Sweep Museum, Klagbaumgasse 4
  • Thyssen-Bornemisza Augarten Contemporary , Scherzergasse 1A
  • Wien Energie World , Spittelauer Lände 45
  • Brick Museum, Penzinger Straße 59

10. Check out the Naschmarkt

Vienna’s biggest and most popular food market is welcoming its customers daily with delicacies from all around the globe. Here you will find something to try from so many different countries, and vendors often offer taste testers to attract buyers.

Roaming around the Naschmarkt is one of the best free things to do in Vienna, and definitely a must, so make sure you check it out and enjoy its colourful and multicultural vibe.

11. Take a guided walking tour around Palais Epstein – the current Parliament building

The Parliamentary Administration offers guided tours of its Palace Epstein completely free of charge. The tours take place every Saturday at 10:30 am and 1:30 pm, and start at the “Infopoint Bau.Stelle” meeting point. Find more information about the Palais Epstein free guided tour and how to book in advance here.

12. Hike to Kahlenberg

Kahlenberg is a hill, located in the Vienna Woods, and is one of the most popular getaway spots for both tourists and locals. The city’s residents love coming up here to enjoy a nice walk in nature and admire the stunning views over Vienna.

The best part about Kahlenberg is that it’s easily accessible and absolutely for free. All you need to do is go Heiligenstadt – the last stop of the U4 metro line, take bus 38A from there and get off at the bus stop called Kahlenberg.

For hiking enthusiasts, the hill can also be reached by foot from the city. It would take you about 3.5-4 hours and the distance is 11km. Just follow the Vienna City Hiking Trail 1 , starting from the last stop of tram D, called Nussdorf (Nußdorf).

You may be interested in this: Half-day Countryside Wine Tour from Vienna (with Meal)

13. Chill at Stadtpark

Vienna takes great pride in all of its parks. Did you know that almost half of the city is covered in green areas?

Stadtpark is one of the best and prettiest parks you can visit for free in Vienna. Located in the heart of the city, all you need to do is go to the U4 metro station called Stadtpark and enjoy this beautiful oasis. Lakes, trees, benches, and sometimes even swans – this is what is waiting for you here.

14. Take a stroll around the Lainzer Zoo

Another top free thing to do in Vienna for nature lovers is undoubtedly the Lainzer Zoo. With a total surface area of 2,450 hectares, this zoo, or more specifically nature reserve, is an enormous home to many animal species.

The Lainzer Zoo has different opening hours, depending on the season, as well as different open entries. The main gate – the Lainzer Tor, however, is open all year round.

If you’re lucky you might get to see deers, mouflons and wild boars roaming around freely.

Perfect location for families with children!

Lainzer Zoo Vienna

15. Setagaya Japanese Garden

While being on the topic of nature and parks, here is another little gem in Vienna, which is surprisingly free to enter.

The Japanese Garden is located in the 19th district and it’s literally tiny, but oh so pretty. The best time to visit the Setagaya garden is definitely early spring when the trees are blossoming and you can feel the Japanese charm of this oasis.

The park is quite outside the central parts of the city, but it can easily be reached by tram 37 (take it from Schottentor), then get off at stop Barawitzkagasse.

vienna free places to visit

16. Central Cemetery (Zentralfriedhof)

The Vienna Central Cemetery is one of the biggest cemeteries in the world, and it holds probably the biggest arrangement of special honorary tombs. This is where you will find the graves of Beethoven, Schubert, Johann Strauss father and son, Hugo Wolf and others.

Walk through the main gate (Gate 2) and take the main path, leading toward the Church of St. Borromeo, which you will recognise by its large dome. To the left and right of this main road you will find Groups 32a and 32c, and 14a, 14c, also known as the Grave of Honour.

Did you know that you could save money on ticket prices when visiting multiple attractions? Check out the group tickets for Vienna here.

17. Concerts in Peterskirche

t the beautiful Peter’s Church in the heart of the city visitors have the opportunity to enjoy church and organ concerts free of charge.

The concerts take place a few times per week, sometimes even a couple per day. See the whole program here. 

Donations are welcome!

18. Concerts in the University of Music and Performing Arts

Another place that offers free concerts in Vienna is the University of Music and Performing Arts. You can witness anything from organ and flute concerts, to theatre performances and piano competitions.

Beware that not all concerts there are for free, so always check their website in advance.

19. See the Summer Vienna Philharmonics concert at Schönbrunn

One of the most favourite annual events for Viennese people is the so-called Summer night concert (Sommernachtskonzert) of the Vienna Philharmonics at the Schönbrunn Palace.

Ever since 2004 the concert has been taking place and it has been attracting over 100 000 visitors in the beautiful gardens of Schönbrunn. The event usually happens at the end of May, but in 2020 it has been rescheduled for September.

If I had to put a label on it, this is certainly one of the most magical things you can do in Vienna, and it’s absolutely for free! Listening to classical music while sitting on the grass in the gardens of a castle in the capital of Austria.. I am even left speechless while just thinking about it.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Wiener Philharmoniker (@viennaphilharmonic)

20. Watch an opera outdoors

In the summer months the Vienna Opera House puts up a huge screen on its facade and projects all of its performances for the public free of charge. Even if you don’t get the chance to visit the opera inside, you can still enjoy the spectacular plays and concerts from the outside.

21. Donauinselfest

The annual Donauinselfest is one of the most awaited events among young people in Vienna.

Every year towards the end of June the city hosts the biggest open air festival around, with DJs and performers from all over the world, sharing their music on many stages across the Danube island.

The “Danube Island Festival” has always been for free and it always lasts for 3 days, with the last one usually being the most exciting one.

In 2017 we welcomed Sean Paul as a special guest at the festival, and it was absolutely amazing to see him live.

In 2019 Alvaro Soler came to perform his biggest hits in Vienna. You can also hear many famous German singers and performers, like CRO and Felix Jaehn.

I can tell you one thing – this festival is definitely an experience to put on your Vienna bucket list.

22. Music Film Festival

Every summer the square in front of the city hall (Rathaus) turns into a paradise for food, music and film lovers. The facade of the buildings turns into a huge screen, where every day for the duration of July and August visitors can watch projections of concerts, movies and shows for free.

The Music Film Festival brings together locals and tourists for unforgettable summer nights, filled with conversations, shared meals with friends from the numerous food stands at the square and enjoying a movie under the stars, while surrounded by the unmatched atmosphere of Vienna.

You may be interested in this: Hallstatt & Alpine Peaks Day Trip from Vienna (with Skywalk Lift)

23. Swim in the Danube river

Vienna may not have a seaside, but there is still something for all the swimmers out there, because we have the Danube river!

There are spots around the Danube canal where the river doesn’t flow quickly and people like to use the opportunity to cool up during the summer months.

Go to the stations Donauinsel and Alte Donau for the best chance to find a spot for swimming. Be careful – the river gets quite deep!

You can also do what I enjoy doing the most – just bring a towel and catch some Vitamin D on the grass next to the river. Not quite like a beach, but it’s still quite nice.

24. Open air cinema at Kaleidoscop

From the end of June till the end of July the open air cinema Kaleidoscop opens its doors in the very heart of the city – Karlsplatz. Movies are being projected daily from 9pm, and the seats are taken on a first come, first served basis, and with no entry fee. All films are shown in their original language with English subtitles.

25. Visit the wonderful Christmas Markets

December is probably the most magical month in Vienna , and also the most spectacular for visitors. This is the time when the Christmas spirit comes to life and sparkling decorations and chandeliers fill the streets of the city.  Not only that, but this is when the Christmas markets in Vienna are at its peak. They actually start opening mid-end November, and last all the way till Christmas.

The entry to the Christmas markets is free, and it’s a memorable experience just to walk around, take in the smells from all the glühwein, roasted nuts and potatoes, and cheesy sausages.

I would certainly recommend spending a few euros on a cup of mulled wine or hot chocolate, as it is an irreplaceable part of the Christmas markets experience.

Rathaus Christmas Market Vienna

With this I’d like to conclude the list of free things to do in Vienna, which happened to be quite long. If you’ve made it till the end – thank you!

I hope you have found a few things you’d want to include in your itinerary for Vienna .

You might also enjoy:

2 Days in Vienna – The Perfect Vienna Itinerary

Your complete guide for visiting Vienna in the summer

Vienna Insider Tips – What to know before visiting?

21 Incredibly Instagrammable Places in Vienna, Austria

Ultimate Vienna Christmas Markets Guide – Full List

11 Marvelous Things to do in Vienna in December – Winter in Vienna Guide

Where to Find the Best Schnitzel in Vienna – Tips + Prices!

10 Dreamy Day Trips from Bratislava, Slovakia

Vienna to Bratislava Day Trip – How to spend 1 day in Bratislava, Slovakia

Lyubomira Doncheva

Lyubomira is the creator and author behind Bulgarian On The Go. With a background in journalism and experience in the field of tourism and marketing, her mission is to show travellers many beautiful places they might have never thought of visiting or even knew existed.

Find me on: Instagram

You may also enjoy:

25 unmissable things to do in brno, czech …, 6 wonderful day trips from stockholm, sweden, 15 fun things to do in rome at ….

vienna free places to visit

Such a great article, Lyubomira! Vienna is one my fav. cities in Europe. There are so many architectural treasures and amazing gardens. I’ve been there only once, but def. would like to visit Vienna again. I highly recommend it.

vienna free places to visit

Such a wonderful blog full with information you cannot find anywhere. Thank you so much for the effort!

vienna free places to visit

This is an interesting list of free things to do in Vienna that I would love to explore on my next visit to the city.

vienna free places to visit

I wish I had found your website way earlier before I went to Vienna last month.

I definitely will go back someday and use your tips as a guidance.

vienna free places to visit

Wonderful articles Lyubomira!

Do you plan to do a blog on visiting Salzburg?

Also, if visiting in December, and wanting to blend in with the locals, and advice on clothing to wear?

vienna free places to visit

Wow, these free things to do in Vienna look amazing! I can’t wait to visit the city and check out all of these attractions. The MuseumsQuartier is definitely on my list, as well as the city’s many parks and gardens. Thanks for sharing these tips!

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Visiting Vienna

What can you do for free?

MUSA Startgalerie sign

You don’t have to spend money to enjoy Austria’s capital. Here are my suggestions for free things to do and see in Vienna…

  • Prices in Vienna
  • How to save money on tickets
  • Free Wi-Fi in Vienna

Make the most of your stay with my…

Exhibition tips for 2024

Klimt icon

Concert tips for 2024

Strauss photo

Free activities, sights, & experiences

Like any place full of tourist attractions, the city has plenty of ways to help you part with your money. But what can you do for free in Vienna?

Your options for sights and activities requiring no money include all the following:

  • Art and architecture
  • Churches and the cathedral
  • Parks and palaces

Woods, walks & rivers

  • Composer and artist trails
  • Free events and festivals

Not free, but cheap

Before we begin, though, just a word about getting around.

Many central sights are within walking distance of each other. However, the public transport system here is remarkably cheap, so you might consider buying, for example, a Vienna City Card ( a network travel card designed for visitors) to save yourself a bit of time.

Architecture & art

Wien Museum MUSA

(The exhibition in the Startgalerie of the Wien Museum MUSA is free to enter)

Walk just about anywhere in Vienna and you’re bound to bump into an interesting building.

To simply soak up this historical cityscape, follow the detailed recommendations in the What can you do in a day? article and/or follow my tips for various self-guided walking tours .

For specific architectural eras, look for the location tips for Baroque , Biedermeier , Jugendstil and Historicism styles.

But what about free art?

Most of Vienna’s many art museums and exhibition venues require an entrance ticket, but a handful allow free entry.

Outside the MuseumsQuartier

(The MQ main entrance)

The MuseumsQuartier (MQ) houses various museums and institutions as a sort of melting pot of contemporary art and culture. Open courtyards, bars and cafés invite you to wander through the complex.

You do need a ticket for most of the big exhibitions, but…

  • The MQ’s Freiraum and Salon exhibition space usually hosts a couple of exhibitions each year. These are often (though not always) free.
  • The MQ Art Box is a permanent glass-sided container in the main courtyard with an art installation inside that changes every two months or so.
  • Around nine of the passageways between buildings and courtyards form what the MQ calls micromuseums, which means the thoroughfares have one or more distinctive features. A typical example might be a creative ceiling fresco.
  • The MQ Libelle is an open space, art installation, and viewing platform on the roof of the Leopold Museum. Also free.

Other options

Ringturm summer art installation

(The Ringturm with its exterior art)

Outside the MuseumsQuartier, try…

  • The Wien Museum MUSA features contemporary Viennese art. While the main exhibition hall requires a ticket, the smaller Startgalerie room hosts solo exhibitions of up and coming artists, with free entry.
  • A similar principle applies at the Bank Austria Kunstforum Wien . This prestigious venue charges for the main exhibition, but access to the smaller tresor exhibition space is normally free. (Note the Kunstforum closes between its main exhibitions.)
  • The Theseus temple rises somewhat incongruously from the middle of the Volksgarten park.

The building actually owes its existence to the need for somewhere to show off a remarkable piece of art (Canova’s Theseus Group sculpture). Vienna’s Kunsthistorisches Museum group now uses the temple in the warmer months for an art installation by some renowned contemporary artist.

  • The Ringturm insurance office building offers a few secret delights. One is the Architektur im Ringturm exhibition, which usually tackles some architectural theme from Central and Eastern Europe.

So you might find, for example, a look at the work of a famous architect or presentations of award-winning building projects.

  • If you enjoy street art, then take a walk along the Donaukanal . This channel of the Danube river runs across the edge of Vienna’s old town. The embankment walls either side of the water burst with urban art. Some of it wonderful, some of it, ahem, less so.
  • The KÖR Public Art Vienna programme deserves a special shout out. KÖR funds freely-accessible temporary and permanent public art installations (over 200 to date), which you find dotted throughout Vienna. The subway station near the university I sometimes teach at has one , for example.

Cathedral & churches

The Minoritenkirche

(The Minoritenkirche, which you might recognise from The Third Man )

Vienna’s landmark sight in the very centre is Stephansdom cathedral. You do need a ticket to look around most of the inside and to access the towers and other interesting bits of the building. But you can actually view some of this Gothic giant without paying.

The area immediately after you enter the main entrance and up part of the north side costs nothing to wander into and around.

The central area of town also has a number of lovely churches you can view for free. For example:

  • The Peterskirche with its extraordinary baroque ornamentation
  • The Minoritenkirche with its proud bell tower
  • The Augustinerkirche with its striking Canova memorial
  • The Annakirche , which rivals the Peterskirche for interior baroque glory
  • The Michaelerkirche , which includes parts dating back to the 1200s

Parks & palaces

Museum view from the Volksgarten

(The Rose Garden in the Volksgarten park)

Vienna is famously full of public city parks requiring no entrance fee. And some of them look rather delightful. Here some suggestions:

  • Most people go to Schönbrunn to tour inside the 18th-century palace that housed various emperors and empresses (including Franz Joseph and the famous Sisi). But the huge landscaped gardens and wider park are free to visit, with the exception of a couple of small locations.

The park has such (free) delights as a Roman ruins (albeit fake), an obelisk, a rose garden, and a botanic garden. View the wonderful exterior architecture of the palace (obviously) but also see the giant Palm House, the Gloriette, and much more from outside at least.

  • Belvedere consists of two 18th-century palaces at either end of a rising terrace with landscaped baroque gardens .

You need tickets to go inside the palaces , which feature excellent art exhibitions and provide a home for Klimt’s The Kiss . But the main gardens are free, as is the adjoining botanical garden run by the university of Vienna.

The Burggarten from the Hofburg

(The Burggarten park in the old town)

  • The small Burggarten park sits behind the Neue Burg wing of the Hofburg place in Vienna’s centre and borders the Albertina art museum. The Burggarten itself is just a nice bit of green space but has one particular point in its favour: the famous Mozart monument.
  • Talking Mozart…if you want to see where they buried him, then head out to the former cemetery at St.Marx. The location has a remarkable atmosphere with nature slowly conquering the gravestones.
  • Staying on the composer theme, the Stadtpark (also very central) has its own famous monument: the golden Strauss statue that’s become one of the city’s most popular photo opportunities.

Other composers also have monuments here, including Schubert and Lehár. The park itself is rather fine, too, with the modest River Wien running through it (not to be confused with the Danube).

  • A short walk up from the Burggarten, just off Heldenplatz square, is the Volksgarten park . This one becomes a true delight in late spring and early summer, thanks to the spectacular rose garden. Fans of Empress Elisabeth (Sisi) should enjoy the large memorial to her.
  • The huge Prater has a park area with waterways, meadows, woodland walks, cycle paths and other recreational facilities. Notable for the amusement complex at one end (home to the Giant Ferris wheel, for example) and the long Hauptallee boulevard that runs right down the centre (a favourite with runners).

Footpath and cycle path

(Out along the banks of the Donaukanal)

Parks aren’t the only green places to stretch your legs in Vienna. We have a lot of woods and waterways, for example, including a rather large river you might have heard of.

If that tickles your interest, browse Vienna’s information on official hiking paths around the city, particularly those in the western woods and hills. Other free options include:

  • The length of the Danube and down the island that splits the river where it passes through Vienna
  • The Donaukanal Danube channel meanders close to the city centre with dedicated bicycle paths and footpaths
  • The Alte Donau is a lake, but a rather big one with plenty of lakeside footpaths
  • Lainzer Tiergarten is a large managed wilderness on the edge of the city, notable for its wildlife (I’ve encountered wild boar there, which is a story for another day) but also for the Hermesvilla , a large summer retreat built for Empress Elisabeth in the 1880s.
  • The city runs a surprisingly lovely set of large gardens at Hirchstetten that include various bonus features, such as a mini-zoo, palmhouse, themed horticultural areas, a maze, and more. Still a well-kept secret, possibly because the location is a little off the traditional tourist track.

Composer & artist trails

Beethoven's grave

(Beethoven’s grave in the public Zentralfriedhof cemetery)

If you happen to be an admirer of Vienna’s famous musicians, artists and/or architects, then many biographical landmarks can be admired from the outside.

I mentioned Mozart’s grave earlier. And you’ll find those of Beethoven, Johann Strauss II, Schubert, and many others at the Zentralfriedhof cemetery.

For detailed maps and lists of relevant biographical addresses for all the above names, plus Klimt, Schiele, Mahler, Empress Elisabeth, Hundertwasser, Haydn, Brahms, Liszt, Bruckner, Lehár, and Otto Wagner, see here .

Free events & festivals

Karlsplatz Christmas market at night

(Karlsplatz Christmas market)

I have a whole page dealing with annual events and festivals in Vienna; many of these are completely free. And the monthly suggestions for activities linked to from that page often include experiences that won’t burden your credit card.

Some particular highlights to watch out for:

  • Vienna has dozens of open-air seasonal markets that pop up at Christmas , Easter and New Year .

You can enjoy them without buying anything. Just soak up the atmosphere, breathe in the scents, revel in the lights and historical surrounds, and browse the stands with all their crafts, gourmet foods and other items not normally sold in your average department store.

Tropical fruit at a market

(The year-round Naschmarkt food market offers its own sensory experience)

  • Europe’s biggest free open-air music festival takes place in Vienna (usually in June): the Donauinselfest draws in something like 2.5 million visitors
  • The Rathaus Film Festival takes place on the square in front of city hall and features concerts from different genres (but with a focus on classical and opera)
  • The Frameout open air film festival at the MQ offers a mixture of films
  • The Summer Night Concert by the Wiener Philharmoniker in the gardens of Schönbrunn
  • The Fest der Freude concert (always May 8) by the Wiener Symphoniker on Heldenplatz square
  • The Popfest (late July) and Gürtel Nightwalk (typically late August) events, which offer free concerts where the music is more 2024 than 1824

Cafe Jelinek signs

(One of Vienna’s many lovely coffee houses)

This is an article about what to do for free in Vienna, but two opportunities allow you to enjoy some special Viennese experiences without spending much money at all.

So, for what it’s worth:

  • Vienna’s traditional cafés form part of the cultural fabric of the city. And you should be able to sit in them for as long as you like with your first order of coffee (with cake optional but recommended). Nobody will hassle you to move on. It’s all part of the coffee house tradition .
  • Standing space tickets to the State Opera House cost as little as €13 on the day (even less if you book in advance, though that’s a little more complicated).

After all that you should have given your finances a bit of a break. Leaving plenty over for some traditional Viennese food . Enjoy.

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27 Incredible Free Things to Do in Vienna (2024)

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Vienna is known for being many things, including being a city of music, the city of dreams (due to Sigmund Freud’s life here), and a city of culture with a very high quality of life.

One thing it’s not known for, necessarily (or at all), is for being a cheap city.

Because…it isn’t.

Vienna, one of the coolest 30th birthday destinations in Europe , can be an expensive city to visit, and it takes some real planning to explore this city on a budget, especially if you’re studying abroad in Europe .

But have no fear, lovely readers, because I am bringing you 27 incredible free things to do in Vienna so you can just focus on enjoying Vienna on a budget without departing with all of your money.

vienna free places to visit

Now, these free things to do in Vienna can get you through the whole trip without spending a dime, but I would encourage you to pick one major splurge that you want to make in the city, whether that’s a night at the opera (inside – we’ll get to that in a minute!) or a visit to the inside of Schoenbrunn Palace or a nice dinner out somewhere.

Vienna is welcoming to all and one of the highlights of a European bucketlist trip , no matter the size of your bank account, but doing only free things in Vienna is going to rob you of the satisfaction that comes from enjoying a fancy city while at a fancy palace or at a fancy meal.

You deserve to spend some cash – you work hard!

Right, where was I?

vienna free places to visit

🛎 Still looking for somewhere to stay in Vienna?

My favorite hotel in Vienna for all visitors is the Guesthouse Vienna ( click here to check reviews & prices ).

Free Museums in Vienna

1. free museums first sunday.

If you’re not visiting Vienna on the first Sunday of the month, skip this section as it doesn’t apply to you (sorry!).

If you do happen to be in Vienna on the first Sunday of a month, or have the power to change your vacation so that you do – well, you’re in luck!

One of the best free things to do in Vienna is to hit the museums on the first Sunday, as many are completely free.

Zero. Nada. Zilch.

Just you, your need to learn about all things Vienesse.

And the following museums:

Wien Museum Karlsplatz Hermesvilla Romermuseum (Roman Museum) Uhrenmuseum (Clock Museum) Neidhart Fresken Otto Wagner Hofpavillion Hietzing Otto Wagner Pavillon Karlsplatz Pratermuseum Virgilkapelle (Chapel under Stephansplatz) Ausgrabungen Michaelerplatz Musa Museum Musa Start Gallery Musa Artothek Beethoven Museum Beethoven Pasqualatihaus Haydnhaus Mozartwohnung (Mozart’s apartment) Schubert Geburtshaus (Schubert’s birth house) Schubert Sterbewohnung Johann Strauss Wohnung

vienna free places to visit

Top Tip: Some of these museums are free all year long, like the Musa Museum listed below, so it’s not a good use of your time to visit on the first Sunday of the month.

2. Street Art Passage

vienna free places to visit

Vienna’s Street Art Passage is exactly what it sounds like – a passage filled with street art.

It’s not a formal museum, but it is one of the best places in the city to see outdoor art, and it’s free and open all hours.

The Street Art Passage is located near the Museumsquartier, where many of Vienna’s premier art museums are housed.

The name of the game here is boldness, color, and a twist on the normal art museum filled with hushed tones and white walls.

As you enter the passage, you see a dizzying array of brown and blue tiles that lead you into the tunnel and let you know that your world is about to be rocked by beautiful, intentional, incredible street art.

3. MUSA Museum: one of the best free museums in Vienna

vienna free places to visit

Known formally as the MUSA Museum Startgalerie Artothek (but I’ll forgive you if you forget all of that), the MUSA Museum houses contemporary art sourced by the City of Vienna’s Department of Culture.

There are 40,000 objects across many genres, and it’s the largest museum of its kind in Austria.

The pieces have been collected since 1951 and reflect the past decades and the work of over 4,000 artists.

There are also temporary exhibits that put the art of the local community on display.

Not only is this perfect for visiting Vienna on a budget, but it also helps support the locals who make the city such a wonderful place to visit.

4. Money Museum

One of my favorite things to do in Vienna for free involves looking at a lot of money.

But not in an envious way, rather in a historical one!

The Money Museum is located at the Austrian National Bank and provides an interetisting glimpse at Austrian currency, gold and its past.

The building itself was designed by Otto Wagner’s student, and it also served as the USA’s military headquarters during World War II.

The Money Museum is closed on the weekends and Mondays, so make sure to plan a visit during the weekdays.

You can also go on a guided tour, free of charge, with a group of 10 people or more.

Perfect if you’ve with a large group of friends or can convince a couple of strangers to go look at some money with you!

Free Parks and Gardens in Vienna

5. stadtpark: places to visit in vienna for free.

Stadtpark was the first park that we came across when we entered Vienna, and we were absolutely thrilled to find a free food tasting event happening!

Well, some of the food you had to pay for, but there were plenty of stalls with small samples to try.

vienna free places to visit

Stadtpark is meticulously designed and meant to link the city centre and Vienna’s third district.

In fact, we entered from the railway station and were marveling at how quickly it turned from noisy and crowded to an oasis with shaded paths and open spaces.

The park opened in 1862 and was Vienna’s first communal park.

The shrubbery and flowers along the paths were meant to be in bloom almost year round, along with a wide variety of fruits and trees that would keep the public’s interest and provide a relaxing space for all to enjoy.

The most famous statue in Stadtpark is the golden (of course) one of Johann Strauss, an Austrian composer.

I may have thought it was Mozart at first, but that’s because I am clearly uncultured – forgive me.

There is also a children’s section of the park, where we saw many families taking advantage of the amenities on a sunny day in May.

6. Gardens of Schonbrunn

The gardens at Schonbrunn Palace are free to the public and probably the best free thing to do in Vienna if you want to make a whole day of it.

They opened in 1779 and span over 1 kilometer from east to west and another from north to south.

Together with the palace, it made it onto the UNESCO World Heritage list in 1996.

vienna free places to visit

We found ourselves getting completely lost with all the things there are to do and see, including formal gardens, fountains, statues, beautiful views over Vienna and over the park, walking paths, paths through wooded areas, ponds, benches, and gazebos to sit in.

There are a few attractions within the park that aren’t free, including the interior of Schonbrunn Palace, the Orangerie, the Gloriette, the zoo, and a rose garden.

Even so, there’s still plenty of space to roam around, and the park is regularly used by runners, joggers, and families just visiting Vienna on a budget.

It’s one of the best things to do in Vienna with kids due to the sheer amount of space to run around.

7. City Hall Park

City Hall Park is a smaller park within Vienna’s inner city that sits in between Parliament and Vienna’s University.

The park is cross-crossed by City Hall Square, which is used as an event location almost year round.

We found City Hall Park a lovely place to people watch and also to feel like you’re in the center of the action while enjoying a picnic lunch, filling up your water bottle with Vienna’s free water filling stations (they think of everything), or just chatting with some friends at a convenient location in the middle of the city.

Oh, and it boasts incredible views of City Hall so you really can’t go wrong.

vienna free places to visit

8. Sigmund Freud Park: what to do in Vienna for free

vienna free places to visit

While this is more of a green space and less of a full park, there are still some interesting things to find in Sigmund Freud Park.

It’s located in front of Votivkirche, a gothic church in Vienna.

In Sigmund Freud Park, you’ll find a circle of trees that was planted in 1997 to represent the countries of the EU.

You’ll also find the Partner of All Nations monument which was created in 2004.

This monument has 10 chairs surrounding a table and represents 10 new nations that joined the EU that year.

There are also other sculptures such as the Ruolf Moratti sculpture, but this is one of the places to go in Vienna for free that will give you a little bit of history and also lovely views of the church nearby.

Take a picnic or grab some cheap lunch from a stall and enjoy the weather.

9. Volksgarten

Situated next to Hofburg Palace, the Volksgarten translates to “People’s Garden” and is a public park created in 1821.

It opened to the public in 1823, and was even built over the city walls destroyed by Napoleon in 1809.

Because this is Vienna, of course there are lovely rose gardens in the park, as well as two fountains: the Triton and Nymph Fountain and the Volksgarten Fountain.

vienna free places to visit

You’ll also find some lovely monuments, a replica of the Temple of Hephaestus in Athens, and places for performances.

10. Burggarten

vienna free places to visit

Right between the Hofburg Palace and the Albertina museum is the Burggarten Vienna Garden, one of my top free things to do in Vienna.

It was designed with the help of emperor Franz who chose plant types from all over the world.

This is where you’ll see beautiful monuments, and a stunning palm house that now has a café and a butterfly garden.

Back in the day, before the public could enter, you could only look in through the fence that seems to stretch up to the sky.

And, of course, THIS IS VIENNA, so the fence is golden.

The garden is usually open until 10:00pm in the summer and 5:30pm in the winter, and you can enter from the main road both in the direction of the Hofburg and of the opera.

Free Attractions in Vienna

11. st. stephens cathedral.

One of Vienna’s most stunning landmarks, St. Stephens Cathedral, is free to go into, and if that’s not a sign that you can visit Vienna on a budget, then I don’t know what is.

We were drawn to St. Stephen’s Cathedral at first by its beautiful roof, which contains 230,000 glazed tiles in different colors.

On the tiles are mosaics of eagles, which symbolize the empire of the Habsburg dynasty who ruled Vienna.

Fun fact: the roof is so steep that it’s almost never covered in snow and is usually cleaned with just the rain running down the sides.

vienna free places to visit

Inside the cathedral are some gorgeous paintings and ornate chapels and architecture.

There are some parts of the cathedrals only open to paying tourists, but we got plenty far in without needing to pay and were able to see enough to appreciate its history.

Sometimes, when going to a new destination, we get a bit bored of cathedrals and are a bit, “if you’ve seen one, you’ve seen them all,” but St. Stephens is definitely one to keep on the bucketlist.

12. Danube Island: Vienna free things to do

Danube, the famous European river, flows right through the heart of Vienna, and of course you can relax on its banks for free.

However, one of the coolest free things to do in Vienna is to head to Danube Island, a Viennese hang out spot that has over 42 kilometers of sand and grassy beaches.

There are places to run, jump, play ball, bike, surfboard, and play in the water playground.

There are bathing beaches for anyone looking for one, including a family one and one for nudists (not my thing, but you do you).

There is also the Danube Island Festival, held every June, that is a free open air party on the island and boasts around 3 million visitors.

It’s free to enter the island, though some of the activities like surfing school and boat rental do coast. To save money, bring a picnic to sit on the grass and soak in the sun or bring a towel to do some sunbathing right next to the water.

If you can spare a bit of change though, there is an ice cream stand calling your name.

13. St Marx Cemetery

vienna free places to visit

The St. Marx Cemetery is actually part of a larger park, and it has paths around and throughout the area.

It’s free for anyone to enter, and is situated in a more remote part of the city, making it great for some self-reflection.

It’s believed that Mozart is buried in St. Marx cemetery, but there is no telling where exactly, as it was a mass grave and over time knowledge of the exact spot has been lost.

You can wander through the lilac hedges and look at the gravestones, as well as sit under the large, old trees that surround the perimeter and make the area very shaded.

14. City Hall

The name for city hall, the Rathaus, troubles me slightly as I can’t stop thinking of it as a “rat house,” but Vienna’s City Hall looks nothing like a rat house, whatever they might look like.

In fact, it was one of our favorite buildings in the whole city, and when we first spotted it, we thought it must be some super expensive museum or something.

vienna free places to visit

City Hall was built between 1872 and 1883 and built in gothic style with a tower.

Inside are the offices of many government officials, as well as state rooms used to welcome visiting guests.

If you’re not quite on the Viennese government’s guest list (though why wouldn’t you be?!), you can still peak inside by going on a free guided tour.

On the tour, you’ll look at the state rooms, the Grand Staircases, the Council Chamber, the two Coat of Arms halls, and more.

Tours run regularly on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday at 1pm, except on certain meeting days and public holidays.

They are in German, so do be aware of that if you don’t understand a word of German, but it’s still worth it to be able to go inside.

If you speak English, French, Italian, or Spanish, you can also pick up an audio guide that are available to free if you leave your ID with them while you take it around with you.

This makes sure you get the tour while also understanding the information provided.

15. Free walking tour: things to do in Vienna for free

vienna free places to visit

While you do need to pay a tip towards your tour guide if you go on a “free walking tour” of Vienna, you can go on a free walking tour of the city with a local guide using a company like Free Tours by Foot.

Walks are offered in English as well as German, and they are usually on multiple times a day throughout the year.

Most free Vienna walking tours are intros to the city or a “welcome” tour rather than delving into any specific area, which is a great idea if you’ve never been to Vienna before.

16. Beethoven Walk

Beethoven spent most of his life in Vienna and made it is home, which means that there are plenty of places to explore in Vienna that he has either lived in, worked at, or visited.

Use this information from Austria’s tourism board to put together your own Beethoven walk around the city.

17. Kahlenberg Hike

vienna free places to visit

This hike in Vienna starts and ends at the last stop of Tram Line D and takes about half a day.

You’ll wander your way through vineyards, wooded hills, and the city itself, and you’ll be rewarded with some absolutely incredible views of Vienna and the Danube.

You won’t be isolated the whole time and you’ll find places to eat along the way, so pack a backpack with some water and supplies and then take your time as you enjoy this free Vienna activity.

18. Setagaya Japanese Garden

vienna free places to visit

When you need somewhere to chill out in Vienna for free, check out the Setagaya Japanese Garden!

This beautiful garden was designed in 1992 and has everything from a Japanese tea house to stone sculptures and streams.

You’ll find Japanese maple, cherry trees, and other Japanese plants that work together to create a beautiful blossom in the gardens throughout the seasons.

19. Hundertwasserhaus

vienna free places to visit

You can’t go inside this quirky apartment, but that’s why it’s completely free and something to see in Vienna without paying anything.

There aren’t straight lines or boring colors to be found here, as it was designed in the style of artist Friedensreich Hundertwasser.

It belongs to the city of Vienna, and is worth walking by.

20. MQ Art Box

This free outdoor container of art in Vienna’s Museum Quarter is a fun place to see rotating exhibits of contemporary art, free of charge.

21. Theseus Temple: best free things to do in Vienna

vienna free places to visit

Head to Vienna’s Volksgarten Park, where you’ll find this sculpture in Greek style, featuring a temple with columns.

It’s a nice place to sit down in the summer and sometimes has art installations inside.

Free Events in Vienna

22. free mozart.

Finding the best free things to do in Vienna doesn’t mean you need to forgot the opera house.

We looked into buying tickets, but as we only had a weekend in Vienna, we didn’t want to confine ourselves to watching the opera for a couple of hours if we didn’t end up being enthralled.

Luckily, the Vienna State Opera takes pity on all of the tourists like us, and in the summer, they project opera and ballet live on a video screen outside the opera.

The is no fee to take a seat and enjoy, though you should go a bit early if you want to grab an actual seat rather than sitting on the floor.

There are 180 chairs set up for each performance, as a guide to how many people to expect.

vienna free places to visit

This was a surprising, but really wonderful way to get to know Vienna a bit more.

It was something we stumbled across and found ourselves more even enchanted by the atmosphere in the square than the performance itself.

People from all walks of life gathered, some stopping on their way to somewhere else, some who had been seemingly dragged along by a significant other, and many who knew exactly where the best spots where and had been there before.

Even if you do get tickets to the opera as part of your trip to Vienna, experiencing the atmosphere outside the Opera House on another show night is a must-do.

23. Naschmarkt

Before I get your mouth watering for this one, know that you will need money if you’re visiting this market and hoping to buy something, but if you just want to take it all in, you won’t need to spend a time.

This produce and food market has been one of the premiere markets in Austria and in Europe since the 16th century.

Back in the day, people would have come from all over the world to find the most luxurious food and bring their goods from their farms and cities.

vienna free places to visit

You can find things to eat like hotdogs and sandwiches to enjoy right away, or you can browse the fresh meat butchers and fishmongers selling the best quality cuts.

For a relaxing day in the Naschmarkt, spend it walking around people-watching and appreciating the diversity that makes up the market.

Vienna is a multicultural city with plenty of expats, and their diversity, home cooking, and businesses are well represented here.

This is the perfect place to try and strike up a conversation with a local and ask for their favorite suggestions on things to do in Vienna for free.

24. Brunnenmarkt

vienna free places to visit

As Vienna’s largest street market, Brunnenmarkt is almost guaranteed to have something for everyone.

There are 170 market stalls, so if you don’t find something, then I feel like that’s on you!

The area, situated around Yppenplatz square (no, I have no idea how to say that) is colorful and vibrant, filled with artists, produce stalls, coffee shops, and more.

Smell the spices drifting through the air, crack a smile at a local vendor and try to learn a bit more about their lives, or visit Staud’s delicatessen, where Johanna Staud has been selling jams and pickled vegetables since 1947.

25. Summer Vienna Philharmonics Concert

In the gardens of Schonbrunn Palace, this annual summer concert brings an orchestra and philharmonics to this gorgeous historic settings and puts on a show for visitors and residents of Vienna with a stunning light display and some famous names.

26. Open Air Cinema at Kaleidsocop

In the summer months, Kaleidsocop puts on an open air cinema month where they play everything from Austrian films to famous international films.

Admission is free, seating is free, and the screenings happen in all weather so don’t worry if there’s a bit of rain.

27. Karlsplatz at Christmas

vienna free places to visit

At Christmas time, one of the best free things to do in Vienna is to wander the Karlsplatz Christmas market, where you’ll find plenty of food, things to buy, festive cheer, and holiday vibes.

You don’t have to pay to enter, so as long as you keep your wallet in your bag and not in your hands, you’ll be good to go.

Still looking for more Christmas fun? Check out Vienna’s best Christmas markets.

Watch my Ultimate Travel Guide to Vienna!

vienna free places to visit

6 thoughts on “27 Incredible Free Things to Do in Vienna (2024)”

Awesome guide. I love Vienna, have been numerous times and can totally second quite a few of the things you mention here. But even I picked up a few new things I might have to check out next time I am over there (like the Street Art Passage, didn’t even know such a thing exists).

Thanks, Sarah! Another place you might want to check out is this nice little garden cafe. There aren’t many back gardens/lawns in Vienna, so it stands out as quite unique. It’s called “ Gartencafe “.

Great post! Vienna is one of my favorite cities as well (I think Paris is WAY overrated in comparison!) Love these tips, I definitely wish I had seen these before I visited. I couldn’t convince myself to pay entry to see the opera no matter how tempted I was, I think it’s so cool that they project dance and music in the summertime!

Hey Erica! I am glad you liked the post, and I agree that Paris is overrated! If you haven’t seen it, I did a post on why I… ahem… hate Paris!

It was very cool that they screened the Opera outside! Hopefully you will get to see it some time 🙂 .

Awesome post! I am always on the lookout for free things to do in a city! Didn’t know you could do so many things for free in Vienna <3

Thanks Baia! Yes, Vienna is a pretty great city in general! It is definitely on my list of places to go back to!

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32 Free Things to Do in Vienna – A Local’s Guide

Are you looking for fun and amazing free things to do in Vienna? Then you are not alone. 

Vienna is an impressive city, but sadly a lot of things are touristy and overpriced. It can be hard to find great things for little money. 

I grew up in Austria and have spent considerable time in Vienna. To make your trip really worthwhile, I have created this list of unique things to do in Vienna – for free. 

vienna free places to visit

Let’s dive in. 

Stroll through the Historic Center of Vienna

vienna free places to visit

The historic center of Vienna is an amazing place to explore for free. The city is rich in culture, architecture, and history. Especially in the Inner City, you can see one famous building after another. 

vienna free places to visit

The Stephansdom (St. Stephen’s Cathedral) is one of the most iconic landmarks in Vienna. From there you can easily walk to the Hofburg Imperial Palace, down the Kärntnerstrasse, and by the Spanish Riding School. 

vienna free places to visit

The gardens of Schönbrunn Palace

This is a totally underrated free thing to do in Vienna. While there is a hefty entrance fee for Schönbrunn Palance and the Zoo, you can enter the gardens for free. 

If you walk up to the Gloriette, a famous building on a hill, you have an amazing view over Vienna and Schönbrunn Palace. If the weather is nice, this is a great place for a picnic. 

Go inside St. Stephen’s Cathedral

vienna free places to visit

St. Stephen’s Cathedral is one of the most iconic landmarks in Vienna. You can even go look inside – for free. 

The Gothic cathedral was built between the early 14th and late 15th centuries. It is one of the highest churches in Austria. Inside you can check out the tombstones of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and Joseph Haydn, and many other famous Austrians. 

Check out the Naschmarkt

The Naschmarkt is an Open-Air-Market in Vienna. It is mostly an array of stands selling street food, spices, and herbs. 

But you can also find arts and crafts stores and textile stores there. The place is super vibrant and fun – and there is no entrance fee to the Naschmarkt. This makes it one of the best things to do in Vienna for free. 

Visit the Museums of Art History and Natural History

These museums are two of the most famous buildings in Vienna. They were designed to look exactly alike and built facing each other.

The entrance to the museums used to be free. Nowadays, you sadly have to pay a couple of bucks to go inside. 

However, seeing the museums and the square just from the outside is one of the best free things to do in Vienna. On the first Sunday of the month, the entrance is free to the museums. 

Visit the City Beach and walk along the Danube River

vienna free places to visit

Vienna is not located by the sea, so people flock towards the Danube River for some relaxation. You can visit the City Beach Club and relax a bit on the artificial beach or simply take a long, scenic walk on the banks of the river. 

Explore the Hundertwasser House

The Hundertwasser House is an iconic building that you should definitely visit in Vienna.  Austrian artist Friedensreich Hundertwasser designed it. 

The facade of the building is unlike any other in Vienna. The multi-colored facade is punctuated with small windows of various shapes.  There are bizarre curved lines and organic shapes throughout the whole structure. 

Visit the MuseumsQuartier

The MuseumsQuartier is a big cultural hub in Vienna.  There are many permanent and temporary installations from famous artists from all over the world. The area includes more than 20 museums, galleries, theater spaces, restaurants, cafes, and bars. 

While some of the exhibitions and galleries ask for an entrance fee, you can visit the outside exhibitions for free. 

Visit Vienna Prater to admire the iconic Giant Ferris Wheel

vienna free places to visit

Vienna Prater is a large theme park located in the heart of Vienna. The Prater is one of the best free things to do in Vienna.

Its most well-known attraction is the Riesenrad (Giant Ferris Wheel). Back in the Imperial days, the Prater used to be the hunting ground of the emperors. The place definitely has a lot of history and charm, and you should definitely check it out. 

Visit the Karlskirche

The Karlskirche, or St. Charles’s Church, is an iconic Baroque church that you can visit for free. It is located in the heart of Vienna. 

The church itself is super impressive. In front of it, there is a big fountain and pool that creates a nice reflection for a stunning photo spot in Vienna. 

Take a walk through the Volksgarten

The Volksgarten is a beautiful public garden located in the heart of Vienna. There is no entrance fee to the garden. 

It is one of the oldest parks in the city. There are beautiful, vibrant flower beds and ponds filled with fish and lotus plants. There are also several monuments inside the gardens. You can see statues of famous Viennese figures like Beethoven or Mozart.

Check out the Viennese Vineyards

Vienna is the only city in the world with notable vineyards within the city boundaries. While the best wines of Austria definitely come from South Styria, the Viennese vineyards are still worth a visit. 

You can hike around the area or simply bring a picnic basket and enjoy the view from the rolling hills of the vineyards. 

Explore the Belvedere Gardens 

The Belvedere Gardens are a sight to behold and a great free place to visit in Vienna. The Belvedere consists of two Baroque palaces surrounded by stunning gardens and luscious greenery. 

The palaces have been turned into museums filled with pieces from the Habsburg court. They are not only interesting to visit on the inside, but a stroll around the garden is quite nice. Sadly, there is a small entrance fee to the museums. 

Discover the Vienna State Opera House 

Every year, the famous Viennese Opera Ball is held at the Vienna State Opera. It is one of the most famous events in Austria. 

Walk by the Opera House to see some magnificent architecture and imagine the place filled with beautiful women in stunning ball gowns and cute ballerinas performing their dances. 

Visit the Austrian Parliament Building

The Austrian Parliament Building is a stunning example of Neo-Gothic architecture located in Vienna’s first district. The building has three main sections: the House of Representatives, the Senate, and the Imperial Hall. This is where all of Austria’s politics are happening. 

It is open for visitors every day except for Sundays when only guided tours are available. On the inside, you can check out some beautiful frescoes, and marble sculptures while learning about Austria’s history. 

Explore the picturesque streets of the Spittelberg district

The Spittelberg district of Vienna is known for its picturesque streets, full of rich culture and history . There are cute little shops and cafes just waiting to be checked out. 

The area used to be a working-class quarter, but today it is more of a vibrant cultural hub. You can also explore old cobblestone lanes lined with beautiful baroque facades. If you are looking for free things to do in Vienna, look no further than Spittelberg. 

Explore the historic cemetery of Zentralfriedhof

This might sound a bit morbid, but the Zentralfriedhof is actually a pretty cool place to visit in Vienna for free. 

You can find the tombstones of Gustav Klimt, Otto Wagner, Sigmund Freud, and even Falco there. There are also important monuments for our Second World War soldiers. 

See the Palace of Justice in Vienna

A really cool place to check out in Vienna for free is the Palace of Justice or Justizpalast. 

In that building, the Supreme Court of Austria resides. 

Apart from its cultural importance, the inside of the palace is quite impressive. It is also known to be a great photo spot for Instagram. 

Take a Day-Trip outside of Vienna

Train tickets are relatively cheap in Austria, so you can explore more of the country if you have the time. 

vienna free places to visit

Hallstatt is a beautiful lake city, nestled between impressive mountains. The little town is famous worldwide because it is so picturesque. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and you should absolutely check it out if you have the time. 

vienna free places to visit

Innsbruck , Austria’s best-kept secret, is another destination you should put on your list.

vienna free places to visit

And if you have more time, check out this 10-day Austrian road trip itinerary filled with awesomeness .

See The Christmas Markets

vienna free places to visit

If you come to Vienna towards the end of the year, you have to visit the beautiful Christmas markets. Winter in Vienna is the best time of the year in my opinion. 

The city lights up under thousands of fairy lights and there are cute little chalets on the Christmas markets all over town. 

Visit the Votivkirche

vienna free places to visit

The Votivkirche is a beautiful neo-Gothic church you should check out. The building is considered one of Vienna’s most important cultural landmarks. 

The exterior has a beautiful façade, with sculptures, spires, and buttresses that give it its distinct Gothic look. Inside there are also impressive sculptures and frescoes to admire. 

The Votivkirche is open to visitors throughout the year and there is no entrance fee. 

Visit the Judenplatz and see the Holocaust Memorial 

The Judenplatz in Vienna is located in the city’s historic Jewish quarter. It is an important historical place in Vienna that you should put on your must-see list. 

The most impressive landmark on the Judenplatz is the Holocaust Memorial. It consists of a concrete cube with 64.000 names of Austrian Jews who died during the Holocaust. 

Attend some of the Free Summer Night Concerts at the Churches

vienna free places to visit

The Peterskirche and Karlskirche are two of the most impressive churches in Vienna. Both host free concerts throughout the year that you should visit when looking for free things to do in Vienna.

Summer in Vienna is the best time for music lovers – there are beautiful concerts all over the city. 

Check out UNO-City

UNO-city is located on the Danube River and is a cool place to check out. It houses many United Nations offices and is home to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). You can check out sleek glass towers and an amphitheater surrounded by sculpture gardens. 

There are several free events, such as film screenings, discussion forums, and outdoor concerts during the summer months.

See the Donauinsel

The Donauinsel, or Danube Island, is an artificial island and it is free to visit. It is about 21 kilometers long and is a popular area to visit.

There are beaches, bike paths, sports fields, restaurants, and other cool free things to do. In summer every year, a very famous concert, the Donauinselkonzert, is hosted there. 

Participate in a Free Walking Tour

vienna free places to visit

The free walking tours of Vienna are a great way to explore the city without spending money. The tours are run by locals and they can tell you a lot about the city.

You can learn about the landmarks, people, and stories behind all the landmarks. The route usually starts at St. Stephen’s Cathedral and explore all of the famous spots in the Inner City. 

vienna free places to visit

See the Austrian National Bank

The Austrian National Bank (Oesterreichische Nationalbank) is the central bank of Austria. It is one of the oldest banks in Europe.

Visiting the building of the Austrian National Bank is a great free thing to do in Vienna. It is a prime example of Viennese modernism from the 1920s. It is located at Am Hof 8 in the Inner City.

Inside the building, you can view artifacts telling the history of the bank. There are even coins from different eras that are on display.

Hike up the Kahlenberg

The Kahlenberg is a mountain peak in Vienna that is a great spot for hiking. It is only 484 meters above sea level, therefore considerably less high than other Austrian mountains.

From up the mountain, you will have an impressive panoramic view of Vienna’s cityscape. On clear days, it is possible to see far beyond the city. It is definitely worth the hike. 

Visit some of the Free Museums

There are quite a few museums in Vienna that do not ask for an admission price. These are great free things to do in Vienna, especially on bad weather days. 

Some of the free museums in Vienna are:

  • Bezirksmuseen 
  • Museum of Bohemian Forest
  • The White House
  • Fire Department Museum
  • Fishing Museum
  • Austrian Horticultural Museum
  • Museum of Jewellery Crafts and Technology
  • Kahlenberg Museum, Kirche St. Josef
  • MUSA Art Library, Felderstraße 6-8

See the Setagaya Japanese Gardens

The Setagaya Japanese Gardens are one of the most beautiful and serene places to visit in the city. And the best part about it: visiting is totally free! 

The gardens were constructed by Japanese landscape architect Takeo Shimizu and they are meant to give a feeling of true Japanese gardens. They feature stone lanterns, teahouses, and shrines. 

My favorite thing is the garden waterfall which is said to have healing properties. There is also a viewing platform where you can look out over the garden.

Go to the Open Air Cinema on Karlsplatz

The Kaleidoscope cinema on Karlsplatz is a cool outdoor movie theater that you have to visit in Vienna. The Kaleidoscope has been around since 2012 and is a big part of the Vienna summer culture. 

The atmosphere is really special. There are lots of twinkling lights that create a romantic ambiance. They usually show international films. There is no entrance fee which makes it one of the best free things to do in Vienna. 

See the Lippizan Horses

The Lippizaner horses are a special breed of horse that originated in Austria. They are known for their beauty and grace, as well as their intelligence, loyalty, and strength. 

They used to be ridden in the Austrian Imperial Court for dressage. Nowadays, you can see them in the Spanish Riding School in Vienna.

While the Riding School itself is not free to visit, you can usually sneak a peak in from the street and spot a horse or two. 

Conclusion: Best Free Things to Do in Vienna

vienna free places to visit

There are so many amazing free things to do in Vienna, it can be hard to choose.

Especially in summer, the vibrant cultural scene in Vienna comes to life. There are many free concerts all over the city and even open-air cinemas. 

Check out cute city districts, see impressive architecture, and explore the lush green gardens all over Vienna. 

When visiting in winter, make sure to check out the Viennese Christmas markets and have a glass of traditional Austrian punch there.

All in all, Vienna is an amazing place to visit and you can do many things for free in the City, so no need to break the piggy bank for your trip.

Keep reading: Looking for unique and off-the-beaten-path places in Austria? We’ve got you.

Sabrina Maasdam runs Shades of Summr

vienna free places to visit

THE 10 BEST Free Things to Do in Vienna

Best free things to do in vienna.

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  • Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

vienna free places to visit

1. Historic Center of Vienna

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2. St. Stephen's Cathedral

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3. Schonbrunner Gardens

vienna free places to visit

5. Peterskirche

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6. Rathausplatz

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7. Stephansplatz

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8. Ringstrasse

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9. Wiener Zentralfriedhof

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10. Hundertwasserhaus

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11. Volksgarten

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12. Church of the Jesuits

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13. Österreichisches Parlament

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14. Stadtpark

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15. Graben and Kohlmarkt

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16. Otto Wagner Kirche am Steinhof

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17. Kahlenberg

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18. Votivkirche

vienna free places to visit

19. Vienna Naschmarkt

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20. Christmas Market on Rathausplatz

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21. Maria Theresia Denkmal

vienna free places to visit

22. Vienna Woods

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23. Mariahilfer Strasse

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24. Kultur und Weihnachtsmarkt Schloß Schönbrunn

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25. Burggarten

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26. Michaelerplatz

vienna free places to visit

27. Augustinerkirche

vienna free places to visit

28. Spittelberg Christmas Market

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29. Kaerntnerstrasse

vienna free places to visit

30. Judenplatz Holocaust Memorial

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Awesome Free Things to Do in Vienna, Austria

Go for a stroll at the Belvedere Gardens in Vienna

While you’ll want to spend money on coffee and sachertorte in the elegant old high-ceilinged cafes scattered across Vienna, there’s tons to do here that won’t cost you a (coffee) bean. Here are the most awesome things to do in the Austrian capital for free.

Austria’s capital is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe – rich in centuries-old architecture, from Medieval, ornately baroque and whimsically art nouveau to Cubic and millennial. Read on to find out how to get access to free live music, mouthfuls of delicious food, picture-perfect gardens and public buildings.

1. MAK (Museum of Applied Arts)

Osterreich, Wien 1, Stubenring 5, MAK - Osterreichisches Museum fur angewandte Kunst, Inner courtyard of the museum

Here’s a visual feast for lovers of interior design. Each room at the Museum of Applied Arts (MAK) examines a different historic style, notably Renaissance, baroque, orientalist and art deco. You’ll admire myriad textures and materials, from lace and glassware to metal and wood. Even the restaurant, Salonplafond, is a visual treat, with its ochre-velvet corner banquettes and its ornate carved ceiling bearing wine-glass chandeliers. Settle in for playful seasonal starters, say, sheep’s cheese with kohlrabi, blueberries and hazelnut.

2. Danube Island

Natural Feature

Known as the Donauinsel, this slip of an island serves chiefly to reinforce Vienna’s flood protection system; but it also has an impressive host of accessible sports and leisure facilities. You can sunbathe on urban beaches and walk, run, roller skate or cycle the extensive network of paths before a hearty barbecue or a picnic in a designated area. Better still, there are sailing facilities and natural meadows (the island is purpose-built). Every year, the (free) Danube Island Festival attracts partygoers for alfresco shenanigans. This year, it’s from 17 to 19 September, with a roster of mainly local artists.

people cheering on a mountain

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4. Hundertwasserhaus

Architectural Landmark

The Hundertwasserhaus during the day in Vienna, Austria

You can’t miss the Hundertwasserhaus as you approach: the façade of this residential apartment block, an easy walk from the lush green parklands of Prater, is pure psychedelic fantasy. It was built between 1983 and 1986 by Austrian artist Friedensreich Hundertwasser, part Gaudíesque, part child’s drawing, and painted multiple colours in a careless, splashy style. Parts just look wonky, and green foliage sprouts out of some apartments. Nearby, the Hundertwasser Museum reveals more of the artist’s work, and you can grab a beer at the cafe.

5. Summer Night Concert at Schönbrunn Palace

6. free films.

If you fancy spending a balmy evening al fresco, under clear skies, as strains of Puccini fill the air, get the Rathaus Film Festival in your diary. In 2021, it runs from July 3 to September 4. It’s called a film festival, but it’s all about music – all kinds of operas, classical-music performances and rock concerts will be screened in the evenings in front of Vienna’s Rathaus (or City Hall). It’s free – you only need to pay for food and drinks, dispensed from stalls all around. Top tip: don’t leave it until an hour before you arrive. This thing gets busy.

7. Karlsplatz

Vienna christmas market - people at the market in Karlsplatz in front of St Charles church (Karlskirche), at sunset, Vienna Austria Europe

Here for a Christmassy weekend? Karlsplatz, one of the most important squares in Vienna, puts on one of the best Yuletide markets in the city. This year, it’s from November 19 to December 23. Of course, you’ll have to pay if you want to buy things, but it costs nothing – and is superbly atmospheric – to wander the stalls, inhaling the spicy aromas of mulled wine. You can listen to music performed on a central stage, and, for kids, there are piles of straw to play in, as well as farm animals to coo over. Top tip: don’t miss the frilly, ornate U-Bahn (underground) station by the square. It’s one of the finest examples of Viennese art nouveau architecture.

8. St Stephen’s Cathedral

Aerial view over the rooftops of Vienna from the south tower of St. Stephens Cathedral, Austria

9. Bike tours

Sports Center, Architectural Landmark

Burn off those buttery Viennese pastries with a morning (or more) of sightseeing on two wheels. The public bike rental service in Vienna is a municipal sharing scheme that is very easy to use. Register online, and you can rent a bike from about 110 stations across the city. In order to register (and hire), you need a credit card (Visa or Mastercard; one bicycle per credit card). The first hour is always free, so, if you’re keeping an eye on the time, you can return your trusty steed to one of the designated stations for 15 minutes and release it for another 60 minutes without paying a cent.

10. Free samples at the Naschmarkt

Vienna - Austria, Naschmark, Market - Retail Space, Austria, Food

Nosing around a food market is always a pleasure, especially if you’re going to be treated to free and delicious nosh. At the Naschmarkt, Vienna’s most famous outdoor food market, there are more than 120 stalls dispensing wines, meats, cheese, pastries and spices. Get a free taste of Vienna before you commit to your favourite bite. And don’t think it’s all wiener schnitzel (Viennese schnitzel) and s achertorte (chocolate cake) either. You’ll also find spicy shakshuka (eggs with vegetables) and fresh, herby tabbouleh (Lebanese salad). When your stomach’s full, note there’s also a flea market every Saturday – something of a cult day out for the young, urban crowd who frequent it.

Save even more money when you visit Vienna and stay at one of the c oolest budget-friendly hotels in the city , all bookable with Culture Trip.

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The Top 15 Free Things To Do In Vienna

vienna free places to visit

The city of Vienna serves as Austria's capital and is a truly charming town. This metropolis dates back to the post-Christian century and was built mostly between 1740 and 1780 during the reign of Empress Maria Theresia. The majority of the city's architecture is the work of Franz Joseph and is one of the reasons that this town is a top travel destination. When you visit Vienna you will find beautiful lush vineyards mixed in with impressive baroque and imperial style buildings.

The town is home to activities that are both new and traditional, with some of its most popular attractions being the impressive Schönbrunn Palace or Vienna State Opera . This can be an expensive city to visit, which is why we made this guide of totally free attractions for budget travelers. You can save money while visiting Vienna by choosing to participate in free activities. While you are out exploring, keep your luggage and backpacks stowed away at a secure luggage storage spot in Vienna .

St Stephen's Cathedral

Found in the City Centre, the St Stephen's Cathedral was built in the 12th century and is one of the top attractions for all who visit Vienna. The building is an impressive work of architecture with its colorful and unique tilted roof made of a mosaic-like design with green, black, yellow and white triangles and its incredible carved stone pulpit.

This landmark is found in Stephansplatz which also hosts its own Christmas market that is worth visiting if you are in town during the holidays. The building's four corners are made into tall towers which are 446 feet high. If you are brave enough to climb to the top of this beautiful gothic structure you will be rewarded with an amazing view of the city streets and skyline.

Museum of Applied Arts

Vienna is a top city for arts enthusiasts and has an impressive selection of galleries and contemporary art museums. Near Wien Mitte , you will find the wonderful Museum of Applied Arts. This one has several rooms exploring different artistic styles and methods. From renaissance to baroque and art deco to orientalist, you can see artworks from different time periods and techniques all in one place.

You will find more than just paintings here, but also sculptures, furniture, photographs and displays that are part of their impressive permanent collection. This activity only offers free entry for visitors who are under the age of 19, but general admission tickets are very affordable.

vienna free places to visit

Prater Park

With about 6 square kilometers of space, Prater is one of Vienna's biggest and most beautiful parks. It is the best place to create your own free walking tour with an 11km trail called Wanderweg 9 that loops around the whole area. You will see several playgrounds, skateboard parks and sports areas scattered throughout the greenspace.

If you don't feel like walking you can catch the Liliputbahn miniature railway or rent one of the city bikes for free, or just relax in the shade of the Vienna woods with some friends and a picnic. The park and woodlands are huge and you can definitely spend some time exploring the grounds.

Naschmarkt Free Samples

If you are itching to try some delicious local food, the Naschmarkt is exactly what you need. This is a great place to find a cheap lunch with its 120 stalls serving different food and drinks like wine, pastries, cheese, spices and meats.

You can try tasty Austrian dishes like tabbouleh, which is a Lebanese salad, and shakshuka, a popular dish made of eggs and vegetables. If you happen to visit on a Saturday you can stop by the flea market that goes on next door.

vienna free places to visit

The Theseus Temple

Travel to Volksgarten Park and you will find the Theseus Temple, which closely resembles a Greek pantheon. It was first constructed to house an Antonio Canova sculpture but is now used to host short-term contemporary art exhibitions set up by the Kunsthistorisches Museum.

The building was designed by Peter Nobile and built in 1829 but mirrors a similar temple found in Athens that dates back to 415BC and is still standing today. You can visit the temple for free and have the chance to some creative artwork as well.

Belvedere Palace Gardens

The Belvedere Gardens have been around since the 18th century and paying a visit here is one of the free things to do while visiting Vienna. These old baroque-style gardens connect the Upper and Lower Belvedere Palaces and consist of three tiers of beautifully planted trees, flowers and foliage.

In the beautiful gardens, you will find ornate fountains, cascading pools, steps and sculptures like water nymphs. The grounds were built by a student of André le Nôtre, a talented French style designer. The gardens have been open to the public since 1780 and can be explored every day from early morning to late at night . This activity and the adjoining botanical garden are completely free so you can take your time exploring at your own pace.

Rathaus Film Festival

Another one of the best free things to do in Vienna is to visit this local music film festival. It runs during the warmer months of the year, often from early July to the beginning of September, and has no entry fee.

You can listen to music concerts of different genres, from rock music to classical concerts and Vienna opera performances. The shows are screened in front of the City Hall in the evening and are a popular event for both citizens and tourists. You can attend for free, but food and drinks sold on-site will cost money.

Danube Island

Also called the Donauinsel, Danube Island is a fun and free place to visit. This small isle was built with the purpose of supporting the local flood protection system but also serves as a great place to relax and socialize. You can sunbathe on the manmade beaches, stroll along the Danube Canal or play sports in the nearby fields.

This place also has an array of paths and trails that are perfect for walking, running, rollerblading or biking if you just want to spend some time outdoors. There are designated areas for barbeques or picnics making it a great lunch spot, and on-site sailing facilities too. Every year this area hosts the Danube Island Festival which is a great event for party lovers with free concerts put on by local artists.

vienna free places to visit

Karlsplatz Yuletide Market

This is one of the city's biggest Christmas markets and is a wonderful place to experience the culture of Vienna for free. The market is open from mid-November to late December and is a fun activity for the whole family with farm animals to pet and straw piles for young kids to play in.

You will feel the festive spirit in the atmosphere at this event, especially with the live music being performed on stage. In the same area, you can see an amazing display of Art Nouveau architecture at the U-Bahn, which is an ornately decorated building found by the square.

Schönbrunn Palace Summer Night Concert

Every year the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra puts on a free concert in the Schönbrunn Palace, which is a Unesco World Heritage Site. The palace grounds are a sight to see in themselves, with perfectly kept gardens and flower beds. The classical music played by the orchestra is accompanied by light shows and fireworks that add to the experience.

Some of the music that will be played include songs by Bernstein, Holst, Debussy, Sibelius and other famous composers. The concert begins at night and is a wonderful opportunity for you to experience great local music, and with free admission, you won't have to spend money.

vienna free places to visit

Free Bike Tours of the City

If you want to explore the city streets while staying active, rent out one of the city bikes. Vienna offers a free and simple renting process around the entire inner city, and with 110 different stations you can pick up and drop off your bikes from almost anywhere. You will need to register online, but once you sign up you can take out your bikes for an hour at a time free of charge.

Using this municipal service you can perform your own free tours of the town while visiting local markets, seeing street art, or appreciating the city's green space and beautiful buildings.

St Marx Cemetery

One of the free things that you can do in this city includes exploring the old St Marx Cemetery. This is the location where Mozart was buried in 1791, making it an iconic place for classical music lovers. The area no longer serves as a cemetery as it closed in 1874, but today is one of the gorgeous public green spaces in Vienna.

Other minor Viennese celebrities of the creative and performing arts lie here like artists, architects, actors, authors and composers. The gravestones are now overgrown with vines and ivy, giving it a more pleasant and relaxing atmosphere than you might think. The area is open to the public year-round and you don't need any tickets to enter.

vienna free places to visit

Popfest Wien Festival

If you are interested in more modern live entertainment, check out the Popfest Wien Festival. This free event has both indoor and open-air stages allowing the celebration to go on in any weather. You can listen to some of the most popular current music in Austria, including hits in hip hop, pop and similar genres.

The festival is held in Karlsplatz Square and goes on for several days at the end of July. These free events are great ways for established stars to perform for the public and for newcomers in the music industry to get some publicity.

Another free thing to do in Vienna includes visiting Stadtpark. This stunning greenspace is found in the City Centre and is home to memorial statues of some musical celebrities like Strauss and Schubert. Since its opening in 1862, this local park has been a favorite place for citizens and wildlife to gather.

The River Wien flows through the area and on the northern end you'll find the Museum of Applied Arts, making this park a great next stop if you already have that activity on your agenda. On the other side, you'll find a gorgeous renaissance style building called the Kursalon where you can grab some food at the resident restaurant or attend a classical concert.

vienna free places to visit

Stephansdom Cathedral

This gothic giant building is found in the city center and remains an iconic landmark of Vienna. The outside of the cathedral is fitted with baroque detailing and most of its foundation dates all the way back to 1137, although it was mostly rebuilt in the 13th century and has had updates and extensions over the years.

You can see the impressive building's exterior and part of the inside for free. If you are willing to pay you can explore the building further with a fun tour of the catacombs or guided tours showing the Stephansdom treasure and relics.

Saving Money While Vacationing in Vienna, Austria

This is not the cheapest city to visit but if you plan it right and pay attention to these travel tips you can find lots of affordable activities to do in this gorgeous city. Just by walking around town either on your own or with a free guided tour group you can see the Danube River, stunning street art, beautiful buildings, find free museums or other cheap things that everyone will enjoy. You don't need to spend money to have an incredible day in the capital city of Austria!

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vienna free places to visit

21 Of The Best Free Things To Do In Vienna, Austria

When it comes to traveling through Western Europe, it can get expensive… especially if you’re traveling as a family unit or in a group. Yet, there is so much to love about the places in this region… such as the beautiful capital city of Austria, Vienna .

While you could spend hundreds of dollars sightseeing in Vienna… sometimes you may need to stick to a certain budget.

So, in this We Drink Eat Travel blog post… we’ll share with you 21 free things to do in Vienna, Austria.

See the Beautiful Churches in Vienna

Vienna has many churches from small to large… and each with various architectural styles from Renaissance, Baroque to Gothic. And, some of them look like you’re stepping into a magical fairytale, or medieval location.

For some of the churches you’ll need to be an entrance fee. Yet, if you want to admire the beauty of the churches in Vienna from the outside… then you won’t have to pay anything.

Here are a few of the magnificent churches you can see. For more, head on over to our Vienna Churches Blog .

vienna free places to visit

Relax in Stadtpark Vienna

Stadtpark is Vienna’s biggest park, covering an area of about 65,000 sqm, which is HUGE! And, not only is it massive… this would have to be one of the prettiest parks we’ve seen on our travels.

It’s lush, filled with ornate statues, monuments and impressive water features. Plus, in the warmer months… you’ll see a variety of colourful flowers spread throughout the park. There’s also the iconic floral clock and a beautiful lake.

vienna free places to visit

Hundertwasserhaus

For a contrast in building styles that will make you go “WOW”… you need to put Hundertwasserhaus on your list of free things to do in Vienna.

This striking apartment building with an unconventional structure, and rainbow color exterior … was built back in the 1980’s. And yes, there are people living in this apartment. Hmmmm… how would you feel if thousands of people flock to your home every day?

vienna free places to visit

Stroll Through a Palace Made for Summer!

If you want to see an elaborate environment of where royal families lived… then on your list of free things to do in Vienna is to go to Schönbrunn Palace.

vienna free places to visit

Note, that there is an entrance fee to go inside and view the actual Palace… as well as a few sections such as the Schönbrunn Zoo. 

Yet, your mind will be blown when you discover other parts of the surrounding areas. And, this includes the magnificent, Gloriette. This is a popular viewpoint to look down onto Schönbrunn Palace… as well as providing wide sweeping views of Vienna.

This grand structure was built in the mid 1700’s… and was actually the Summer Palace of the Habsburg royal family!

Yet, if you want to be blown away by the riches, and majestic environments of the royals… then put this next thing on your list of free things to do in Vienna…

Belvedere Palace

Now, similar to Schönbrunn Palace… you will need to pay an entrance fee to explore the inside. Plus, it houses one of the most impressive museums, showcasing a range of artworks. Yet, it won’t cost you to take a walk around the grounds. Plus, you’ll be amazed that this entire complex has not 1, but 2 palaces!

Here is a photo of the Upper Belevedere…

vienna free places to visit

And, below is the Lower Belvedere Palace…

vienna free places to visit

Needless to say, the royal families have lots of wealth, and weren’t afraid to flaunt it!

Join One of the Free Vienna Walking Tours

vienna free places to visit

There are several organizations that offer free tours of Vienna… so you can get an insight on the amazing landmarks and hear the stories. It’s also a convenient way to visit the important landmarks if you’re limited for time… as you don’t need to do much planning. Many of these free walking tours run for about 2 hours. 

Now, while they are advertised as being for free… if you feel that your tour guide did a great job, then don’t hesitate to give them a tip!

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Take Advantage of the Open Days

When you’re planning your travels, looking for free things to do in Vienna… research when the free Open Days are for different attractions, which you’d otherwise have to pay for. As an example, on the first Sunday of each month… some of the museums have free entry.

vienna free places to visit

Yet, if you are going to visit the museums on these free days, especially in peak seasons… make sure you plan ahead and get there BEFORE opening time. We’ve found that the lines can be very long, which is not a great use of your travel time!

If you want to see a bustling market, then head on over to this Vienna attraction…

The Naschmarkt

This would have to be one of Vienna’s most popular outdoor markets. With over 100 market stalls selling fresh produce, homemade goods, and more… there’s something for everyone. 

vienna free places to visit

And, if you want to experience the Naschmarkt at its most vibrant time… then plan to see it on a Saturday. Not only do they have their standard market stalls, there’s also a flea market. Plus, there may even be live music. 

Now, while it is free to see the Naschmarkt, it wouldn’t surprise us if temptation sets in… and you need to sample the many delicious varieties of food and drinks on offer.

Check Out an Open Air Cinema

When the warm weather hits, there’s plenty more free things to do in Vienna. And, one of the popular things to do is to watch a film at an open air cinema. Just make sure you go see a film that is in English, or has English subtitles!

There are a few locations in Vienna that offer this activity… such as at City Hall Square, where they have the Music Film Festival. Or, you could head on over to Karlsplatz, for the Kaleidoskop open air cinema.

Check Out a HUGE Elaborate Fountain

When we were on our way to see Belvedere Palace, we had to make a stop at the square, Schwarzenbergplatz. And, that’s because we had to see the massive fountain, Hochstrahlbrunnen. 

vienna free places to visit

This fountain is an important landmark in Vienna’s history of evolution. And, that’s because it commemorates the first ever water pipeline from the Alps to Vienna… that was constructed in the late 1800’s.

Not only does it look impressive, it’s great for some relief when it’s hot to help cool down!

Get Lost in the Streets of Vienna

vienna free places to visit

When you’re strolling around Vienna city, you’ll discover that there’s so much to explore. And, as we spent a few weeks in Vienna we took our time. So, as we normally do in a new place, we got ourselves lost on purpose!

We walked down beautiful streets, and found amazing places we hadn’t planned to see.

See Some Remarkable Statues & Monuments

Now, if you’ve seen our travel blog about Skopje … then you’ll be amazed at how many statues they have in such a small capital city! Yet, Vienna also has their fair share of statues, and many of them are very grand.

You could walk around Vienna for days… seeking out the elaborate statues and important historical monuments. And, the great thing is, you don’t have to pay anything to see some of the best!

vienna free places to visit

Now, next on our list of free things to do in Vienna, is a must especially if you need to relax…

Lounge Around in an Historical Area of Vienna

When you’ve been roaming around, exploring the brilliant attractions in Vienna … you’ll most likely need to take a break. And, if you’re looking for a unique area to relax in an historical area of Vienna, without having to pay for anything… then head on over to the MuseumsQuartier.

This is one of the most popular areas in Vienna for art and culture lovers… as well as those of us who love architecture. So, once you go inside the main MuseumsQuartier area, you’ll see these brightly colored funky lounges…

vienna free places to visit

So, whether you’re traveling solo, a couple or in a group… take a break in the MuseumsQuartier courtyard. And, can you believe that in the year of 2005… these lounges were given the Adolf Loos National Prize Award for Design! It just goes to show you how iconic they are.

Talking about icons, you must put this on your list of free things to do in Vienna…

Be Amazed by St Stephen’s Cathedral

vienna free places to visit

While there are so many beautiful cathedrals and churches in Vienna , Austria… the MOST popular is St Stephen’s Cathedral in Stephansplatz. This commanding, striking, Gothic cathedral cannot be missed when in Vienna. And, just looking at the outside of it will make your jaw drop in awe. Watch out for the flies though in the hot weather… LOL!

Now, Vienna is famous for its music… and the brilliant musicians who shared their talents with us. Yet, even if music isn’t your thing… you need to see this important Vienna landmark…

The Mozart Monument in Vienna 

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart brought joy to many people around the word, with his incredible musical talent… even though it was only short lived. And, in memory of this great composer, a monument was erected in the Burggarten.

And, one of the most iconic parts of the Mozart Monument… is the floral treble clef display in front of his statue. 

vienna free places to visit

Next on our list of free things to do in Vienna is to see…

Vienna Ringstrasse

Built in the mid-late 1800’s is Vienna Ringstrasse (Ring Road), which stretches over 5km and is wider than 50 meters. It took about half a century to complete the entire Ringstrasse! Yet, the time and effort was worth it, as it’s an incredible masterpiece in Vienna city. 

The Ringstrasse is flanked with some of Vienna’s most exquisite buildings. These include the Vienna Opera House and the Burgtheatre.

vienna free places to visit

Now, if you think they’re amazing buildings, then you need to see this one…

Hofburg Palace

You haven’t seen Vienna if you haven’t checked out the Imperial Palace – Hofburg. This is one of the largest building complexes in the WORLD. And, the oldest part of the Palace, is the Old Fortress, which dates back to the 13 th  Century. 

Of course, to see some of the historical artefacts in detail, you will need to pay. Yet, you can simply admire its beauty and extravagance from the outside…

vienna free places to visit

And, being one of the most popular attractions in Vienna… it does get busy with plenty of tourists and groups. So, if the you’re wanting to escape the hustle and bustle of the city centre, then put this on your list of free things to do in Vienna…

Stroll Along the Danube River

vienna free places to visit

The Danube River is huge, spanning a length of over 2,800 metres… and flowing through multiple countries, including Austria. We’ve had the opportunity to see the Danube in many different places around Europe.

And, when we were staying in the Ibis Wien Messe in Vienna’s 2nd District of, Leopoldstadt … we took the opportunity to take the short 10 minute or so wander to see the Danube River. It was very relaxing, with a huge promenade that goes on for miles!

And, in the vicinity of that area where we were on the Danube River, was this island in Vienna…

vienna free places to visit

Donauinsel, also known as Danube Island, is an artificial island in Vienna… over a span of about 20 metres. And, this is popular with families, as there are plenty of activities to do here. Or, you can just laze around, get some rays… and soak up the surrounding views of the Danube River and Vienna.

Now, while you’re in the second district of Vienna, then check this out…

OK, so Prater is famously known in Vienna for its range of fun and exciting activities… as there are rides and many other attractions to keep the young, and young at heart entertained for hours. 

And, one of the main attractions is the Wiener Reisenrad… the giant historic ferris wheel, which has been in Vienna since the late 1890’s! It was such an amazing photo opportunity…

vienna free places to visit

Yet, while you have to pay to go on the Wiener Reisenrad, and amusement park attractions… within Prater is the Hauptalle, which is free to explore. So, Prater Hauptalle a large, straight boulevard that runs about 4.5 kilometers… and is lined with over 2,000 trees.

And, last but not least on our top free things to do in Vienna, is this to head on over to…

Maria-Theresien-Platz

Be surrounded by some of the most remarkable buildings and artefacts in Maria-Theresien-Platz. This beautiful square has the majestic looking Museum of Natural History on one side… and opposite it, is a similar looking building, which is the Art History Museum.

vienna free places to visit

Plus, between the two museums is the Maria Theresa Monument, built in the late 1800’s… honoring the Monarch, who was the ruler of Vienna for 40 years in the mid to late 1700’s.

Also, the opulence doesn’t stop, with majestic fountains adorning the square. And, in Summer time it gets really busy with locals and tourists alike… plonking themselves on the lush green lawns amongst the manicured trees, shrubs and plants. 

So, there you have it, 21 free things to do in Vienna, Austria. Yes, it can get expensive when you travel through Vienna, let along the rest of Europe. So, take advantage of exploring Vienna, without having to open your purse or wallet. 

There’s so much more to do that’s free than what we’ve listed here. Yet, this gives you a taste of what to expect… when you visit one of Europe’s most historical, magical and beautiful capital cities, Vienna. 

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14 Really Cool Free Things To Do In Vienna

Categories Austria , Destinations , Vienna

14 Really Cool Free Things To Do In Vienna

Vienna is without doubt extremely expensive. It is also an extremely popular place to visit and now that we’ve spent two days roaming the city I can see why. I think that this city is one that really should be on your radar if you are traveling in the area. With its impressive architecture, gorgeous museums, amazing delicacies and tons of sights, you would be hard pressed not to enjoy it. 

If the budget is worrying you, fear not… All is not lost because there are free things to do in Vienna and just knowing where to go and when, will make sure that you don’t break the bank. I’m sure you get what I mean.

So, if you are one of the detailed planners like me and are headed to Vienna on a budget, I highly recommend reading and bookmarking this post because I’m going to detail all the free things to do in Vienna.

This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases at no additional cost to you. Read my disclaimer for further information.

Table of Contents

Transport in vienna.

There are so many ways to get around Vienna because it has an amazing public transport system. If you are looking for a tried and true method of transportation that will not fail and is budget friendly then I would suggest your own two feet because the city is very walkable.

In fact, we pushed our stroller all around the city and found it pretty wheelchair accessible with the exception of a few museums.

Where To Stay In Vienna

As I’ve mentioned before, Vienna is not the cheapest city so accommodation can come with a price. Always try to book your stay early. That way you can ensure that you have the best deals. We sometimes even book as much as three months in advance. Sounds crazy right?

Before the kids we used to travel using hotels. Really keeps the budget low if you know what I mean. As the kids have grown we have started booking hotels and apartments instead. Anyways, while in Vienna check out these places because they are great places to stay.

Hollmann Beletage Design & Boutique Hotel – Luxury

⭐️ Rating: 9.3/10 (706 Reviews) Price: $239 per night 📍Location: Köllnerhofgasse 6, 01. Innere Stadt, Vienna Details: Read more on booking.com now!

The hotel is located bang in the center of the city and is literally in the hub of all the excitement. This alone makes the Hollmann Beletage Design one of the cool hotels to stay at.

One of the things that people love about this hotel is the breakfast. I mean you can head out to one of the cafes but when you get up and have a meal ready for you, it makes for the perfect start to the day.

“We loved everything about this property! Centrally located in old town Vienna providing walkable excursions and so many restaurant options. The room was huge, quiet, and the bed was very extra comfy. Breakfast was SUPERB including fresh made to order crepes, omelettes, etc and divine coffee. if I ever return to Vienna, here I will stay.” Gee ( read more reviews now! )

The staff are also extremely attentive. Plus the staff are extremely attentive so you can be sure that your stay is comfortable.

Tired of walking around the city? You can head to the relaxation area where there are games and hot beverages. It’s one of the very best places to stay in Vienna if you don’t mind spending a bit for the luxury.

Zoku Vienna – Mid Range

⭐️ Rating: 9.2/10 (4,779 Reviews) Price: $164 per night 📍Location: 6 Perspektivstraße, 02. Leopoldstadt, Vienna Details: Read more on booking.com now!

Apartments like these are our new way of staying while we travel. This is because its spacious and sometimes the weather really sucks. So you kinda want to spend sometime indoors. When you find a nice cozy apartment like Zoku Vienna, it because so pleasant to stay indoors too. It is also great if you want to stay longer in the city or work from home.

“Excellent breakfast, nice views from common spaces on 7th floor, fun and modern decor. Staff was really friendly and nice. Two metro stops within walking distance and only a few stops to the city center.” Emma ( read more reviews now! )

It has air-conditioning, a kitchenette where you can cook up a meal easily, a flat screen TV and most importantly free high speed Wi-Fi. We all know how important good Wi-Fi is when you are working. The building also has co-working spaces, meeting rooms, a restaurant and a bar. So you don’t even have to go far if you want a meal or just to chill.

JO&JOE Vienna – Budget

⭐️ Rating: 8.7/10 (3,140 Reviews) Price: $36 per night 📍Location: Europaplatz 1/6, 15. Rudolfsheim-Fünfhaus, Vienna Details: Read more on booking.com now!

If you are on the lookout for a good hostel in Vienna, I would recommend checking out Jo&Joe Vienna. Some of the reasons why it is very popular is because it has a garden, a terrace, a shared lounge and a restaurant.

This makes it super easy to interact with other people who are staying there. It is one of the reasons why I love hostels. You get to meet some amazing people.

“Best hostel I’ve ever been. Professional staff, very progressive and youth ambiance. Great for solo travellers and young couples seeking to make new friends. Daily entertainment activities and great social space. There are three different stories to socialise and spend quality time meeting new people. Highly recommended.” Hassan ( read more reviews now! )

The hostel has all kinds of rooms. Some are private rooms and others are dormitories. The price of the room obviously differs depending on the number of people who share it. The rooms are clean and have privacy curtains which is always good. It also has a communal kitchen if you need to whip up a quick meal.

Free Things To Do In Vienna: Palaces And Gardens

You probably don’t know it but most of the grounds and gardens in Vienna are free for the public to enter. There are a few exceptions to the case though. I love this about the city because it means that even though the city is expensive, you will still find free things to do in Vienna that can help you keep your trip to the city within a budget.

1. Schonbrunn Palace Grounds

A bird's eye view of the Schonbrunn Palace Grounds which is one of the top free things to do in Vienna.

A bird’s eye view of the Schonbrunn Palace Grounds which is one of the top free things to do in Vienna.

Yes I know it sounds crazy but the Schonbrunn Palace grounds are actually free to enter. The Palace on the other hand requires a paid ticket. The palace grounds are huge and I highly recommend visiting as it is an experience in itself. You will get a chance to see the palace from both the front and the back. You can also wander into the extensive palace grounds and visit the Gloriette. 

What you won’t be able to do is get into the Schonbrunn Palace, visit the maze, the orangery, the privy gardens or climb up to the Gloriette viewing deck. Now there are various different tickets that you could choose when it comes to entering these and if you are going to splurge on one just like we did, I would recommend just getting the tickets to the inside of the palace because it is very interesting especially if you are a history geek.

Young children get in for free and you can request for an audio guide for the kids too. This is something that I would really recommend because even my two year old found it fun to identify what was being said in the audio guide and correlate it with her surroundings. True she didn’t get most of it but it was a fun activity nonetheless.

2. Belvedere Palace Grounds

The sprawling garden of the Belvedere Palace are another of the iconic free things to do in Vienna that people love.

The sprawling garden of the Belvedere Palace are another of the iconic free things to do in Vienna that people love.

Just like the Schonbrunn Palace, entrance into the Belvedere Palace is charged. The palace grounds on the other hand are free to enter. Unfortunately for me, this is one of the attractions that I missed out on. I quite literally forgot about it. YUP! That can happen to a travel blogger too! 

I guess two days in Vienna is not really enough to cover all the marvels but that was all that I could do considering Vienna is costly and I wanted to keep everything as budget friendly as possible.

3. The Botanical Gardens

While we are on the topic of free things to do in Vienna in terms of gardens, head to the Botanical gardens near the Belvedere Palace. These are run by the university and are free to visit too!

4. Stadtpark And The Johann Strauss Monument

One of the most photographed statues in Vienna is the golden Edmund Hellmer’s golden Strauss Monument. This was set up as a memory of the famed musician Johann Strauss. The statue is located in Stadtpark which is a lovely green space. It is one of the best places to sit in if you want a quiet spot. Plus it is one of the free things to do in Vienna, so why not?

5. Volksgarten

The Thesus temple is one of the free monuments to visit in Vienna and is located in the Volksgarten

This manicured garden is located very close to the Museum of Natural History and the Parliament. It is one of the iconic free things to do in Vienna because this ground is often used for concerts. It has played host to some iconic people over time. Strauss and Lanner are some examples.

While you are here don’t forget to visit the Theseus Temple that is located in its center. It is a beautiful temple and in summer you will find that the surroundings are lush green that makes the white columned building stand out instantly.

I unfortunately wandered through here after the sun had set so I don’t have really good pics of the place.

Free Things To Do In Vienna: Monuments

Let’s be honest. Vienna is full of monuments. Everywhere you look, you will see a building of interest. The more that you walk through the city, the more you will find that the buildings begin to merge together. That’s one of the reasons why I’ve listed the following monuments that you should pay attention to when you are walking. Some of these free things to do in Vienna are also some of the top attractions in the city.

6. Ankeruhr

Another one of the free things to do in Vienna is the Ankeruhr which is a clock.

This is one of the cool free things to do in Vienna. Well not so much do as see. The arch between the two buildings houses a cool clock. This has copper accents and figures. Every hour when the clock minute hand completes a revolution, the tiny figures move. It is a cool thing to stop and see if you are in the vicinity.

I personally looked at it, liked it and moved on without hanging around to see the figures move. This was largely because our kids would have been bored with waiting and we were rather short on time in the city.

7. The Column Of Pest

The column of Pest in the night with busy tourists and shoppers.

The Column of Pest was something that we saw while we were wandering about the center of town. We stopped, we admired it and moved on. It was only latter that I realized the significance of the monument. I think that happens a lot when you’ve really not planned your day well. It happens to me sometimes especially when I’m exhausted on a trip and I hate it but I’ve learned to take it with a pinch of salt.

Anyways, the Column of Pest is dedicated to the memory of the plague that passed through Vienna in 1679. The disease ravaged the city and it was so bad that Vienna lost almost two thirds of its population. The Column of Pest is also the largest baroque black death monument in Europe.

8. The Monument Of Maria Theresa

The Maria Theresa monument on a cloudy day in Vienna. It is one of the free monuments to visit in the city

If you’ve taken one of the tours of the Schonbrunn Palace, you have probably acquainted yourself with the history of the rulers of Vienna. Maria Theresa was one of the most important people of her time. The monument that stands in her honor has her seated on a throne with four horsemen and famous composers around her.

Before you ask, yes! I took the pic from the wrong angle because I was in a hurry. Another epic fail on my part! Can you relate with it?

Free Things To Do In Vienna: Churches And Religious Institutions

One of the cool things to do in Vienna is to visit the churches and religious institutions is something that you consider. This is because the buildings are old and beautiful. Most of them are free! Here are some of the top picks among the ones that we visited.

Oh and believe me… You can get overwhelmed walking through church after church. It kind of merges together after a point of time. So intersperse these with other activities so you don’t zone out.

9. The Annakirche 

The gorgeous frescoes and paintings inside the Annakirche in Vienna makes it one of the favorite churches among visitors

The Annakirche or the Anna Church is my favorite church in the city.

It is also one of the churches that is easy to miss if you are not paying attention because it blends in with the surroundings from some of the sides so make sure to mark it on your map.

The inside of the Annakirche is beautiful. The building itself is centuries old and has been renovated over time. The inside of the church has marble columns and impressive frescos.

For those of you who are curious about the architectural styles, you will find that the church has one of the most impressive baroque styles. The frescos that you see are painted by a renowned painter named Daniel Gran.

Oh and the best part is that entrance into this church is absolutely free. So yes it is definitely one of the free things to do in Vienna that you should have on your list!

10. Augustinerkirche

The Augustinerkirche or Church of Augustine was built way back in the 1300s. I know! That fact really took my breath away. That a building has been preserved for all those years in itself is impressive. This church was the imperial court parish church from 1634 to 1918. I think this is one of the main reasons why it has remained so well preserved.

Unlike the Annakirche, this church is more simplistic in its design and is still as impressive. 

11. Peterskirche Or St. Peter’s Catholic Church

St Peter's church is one of my favorite free things to do in Vienna.

St Peter’s church is one of my favorite free things to do in Vienna.

Like the Annakirche, the Peterskirche is another must when it comes to free things to do in Vienna. The exterior of the church is has a characteristic green dome with golden spires.

It reminds me a lot of the churches that I saw in Saint Petersburg in Russia.

The interior is decorated in a rich baroque style. I honestly did not expect such vivid interiors. The high dome brings in a lot of light which illuminates the intricate décor inside.

12. St Charles Church

Another domed cathedral that is free to enter is the St. Charles Church. This is one of the churches that is not located within the inner parts of the city. Like the other churches, this one too has ornate frescos that decorate the inner sanctum of the church.

If you are a fan of the baroque architecture then this is one of the free things to do in Vienna that should be on your list.

13. Votivkirche

The gorgeous Votivkirche with a blue sky in the background is one of the free things to do in Vienna that you should not miss.

The Votivkirche is hard to miss if you are walking through the area. Its white in contrast to the duller buildings in its surrounding. Yes… I called the other majestic buildings dull by comparison. The church towers up and is eye-catching. It was built in a neo-Gothic style.

This church was built after the failed assassination of Emperor Franz Joseph in 1853. It was the emperor’s idea mind you. Archduke Ferdinand Maximilian, his brother was the one who started the campaign for the funds. The church was built in gratitude to God for sparing the emperors life.

Entering the church is free and highly recommended because it is as beautiful on the inside as it is on the outside. There is also a nice patch of lawn in front of it that you can sit and chill at. Plus a playground at the side which means that your kids can play while you enjoy the view.

Many people miss this gorgeous list when they plan out all the free things to do in Vienna that they want to see. I think that’s rather sad because it is one of the prettiest buildings that I have seen in the city.

14. St Stephen’s Cathedral

The iconic St Stephen's basilica with the crowds of people walking around it.

One of the churches that people will rarely miss is the St. Stephen’s cathedral. Now, I haven’t really gone into the church because it was closed but the church is bang in the center of the city. We did get to admire the outer façade of the building. It should not come as a surprise that our walks through the city meant that we passed by this church numerous times.

One thing that you have to realize is that the square is teaming with people. So watch your valuables or you may get pickpocketed while you are busy clicking photographs. The reason why St Stephan’s cathedral is such an important monument in the city is because it is deemed as the mother church of Roman Catholic archdiocese of Vienna.

So there you have it. These are some of the free things to do in Vienna that we loved. Honestly just wandering the different streets of the city will keep you entertained. My pro tip is to just include these along your itinerary. Pick things that your really want to see and then incorporated the free things in as you go.

Free things to do in Vienna, Austria

Traveling Well For Less

Free Things to Do in Vienna

By: Author Debra Schroeder

Posted on Published: May 9, 2016  - Last updated: September 1, 2023

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yellow palace with gardens and lake

I’m cheap, I admit it. When I travel I always look for all the free things to do in every city. It’s not that I don’t want to spend money, but why spend it if you don’t have to.

You can always find something to do for free when you travel. Even in an expensive city like Vienna. Here are some of the  free things to do in Vienna .

Table of Contents

Free Things to Do In Vienna

When I travel I always look for the free things to do in every city. You can always find something to do for free when traveling. Here are some of the free things to do in Vienna. | fun things to do in Vienna | what to do in Vienna | https://www.travelingWellForLess.com #freethingstodo #austria #vienna

There’s so much to do and see in Vienna, especially these top five things . And while most attractions, like Mozart’s House, charge for admission, there are quite a few free things to do in Vienna. So put away those dollars (or euros) and check out all the  free things to do in Vienna .

Because some of these things might be boring for younger kids (even the most genteel or well-behaved children get antsy at operas even if the  opera only cost 3 euro ), these  free activities in Vienna  would be better for teenagers and adults.

Looking for things to do with kids in Vienna? Stay tuned for our post:  Family Friendly Free Things to Do in Vienna .

1. Gardens at Schonbrunn Palace

The Gardens at Schoenbrunn Palace are free to visit. TravelingWellForLess.com

You can spend hours touring the gardens at Schoenbrunn Palace. But visit during the spring or summer instead of the winter…

Admission to Schonbrunn Palace (Schloss Schoenbrunn) requires a ticket but you can visit the gardens at Schonbrunn Palace for free. The Schonbrunn Palace and its gardens are one of our 5 things you must do when you visit Vienna .

Here’s how to skip the line when you visit Schonbrunn Palace .

It’s a great place for a walk, run, romantic stroll, or picnic. You’ll see gorgeous greenery, Roman ruins, fountains, and statues. If you walk to the Gloriette , you’ll be treated a great view of Vienna and the Schonbrunn Palace .

If you’re visiting Vienna and Schoenbrunn Palace in the summer, consider timing your visit to take advantage of the free concert performed by the  Vienna Philharmonic at the Palace Gardens in Schonbrunn.

Pro-tip: You have to pay to enter the Maze & Labyrinth, Gloriette viewing terrace, Privy Garden, Orange Garden, and Children Museum.

Here are some recommended tours of Schonbrunn Palace  Skip the line: Guided tour Schonbrunn Palace and Vienna Historical City Tour , Schonbrunn Palace Evening Concert , and  Vienna Schonbrunner Gardens Mini-Train Tour.

Schonbrunn Palace Schönbrunner Schloßstraße 47 1130 Wien, Austria

Schonbrunn Park opens at 6:30 am, closing time varies depending on the time of year

The Privy Garden/Orangery Garden is open from April 1 to November 3 at 9 am, closing times are 4 pm to 7 pm depending on time of year.

Schonbrunn Maze & Labyrinth/Gloriette Viewing Terrace are open from April 1 to November 3 at 9 am with closing hours of 4 pm to 7 pm depending on the time of year.

One hour free bike rental from Citybike in Vienna. Traveling Well For Less

One hour free bike rentals

Don’t want to pay for the subway or tired from all your walking at Schoenbrunn Palace? You can borrow a bike from Citybike  in Vienna for an  hour for free .

Consider taking one of these bike tours:

  • Vienna City Bike Tour
  • Wine Tasting Bike Tour
  • Wachau Valley Winery Small-Group Bike Tour

3. St. Stephen’s Cathedral (Stephansdom)

You can visit the iconic St. Stephen's Church in Vienna for free. TravelingWellForLess.com

Gorgeous stained glass windows wait for you inside St. Stephen’s Church

One of the most famous places in Vienna, St. Stephen’s Cathedral (Stephansdom) , is a gorgeous Gothic church and, at one point, was the tallest building in Europe. You can visit on your own for free . But there is a fee for tours of the Cathedral and catacombs.

Looking for a guided tour? Book on of these church tours  Small-Group Underground Vienna Tour: St Michael’s Church Crypt and Michaelerplatz Excavation , Vivaldi Four Seasons Concert at St. Charles Church , or  Mozart Requiem Concert at St. Charles Church .

St. Stephen’s Cathedral Stephansplatz 3 1010 Wien, Austria 43 1 515523054

Hours: Monday to Saturday 6 am to 10 pm, Sunday and holidays 7 am to 10 pm

Other churches that can be visited for free:

  • Augustinian Church
  • Church of the Nine Choirs of Angels (Kirche am Hof)
  • Mary on the Strand (Maria am Gestade)
  • St. Michael’s Church
  • St. Peter’s Church
  • Scottish Church (Schottenkirche)

4. Naschmarkt & Brunnenmarkt

Naschmarkt is Vienna's farmers market. Traveling Well For Less

Photo courtesy: Hiekel aka Clemens Pfeiffer via Wiki

Stroll through the shops at Vienna’s farmers’ markets,  Naschmarkt   and Brunnenmarkt . Both are open   Monday through Saturday from 6 am to 7 pm (5 pm on Saturday).

Take a small-group food tour of Naschmarkt .

5. City Hall (Rathaus)

When visiting Vienna, you can take a free guided tours of City Hall (Rathaus). Traveling Well For Less.

Photo courtesy: Thomas Ledl , CC4

You can take a free guided tour of Vienna City Hall (Rathaus)  every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday at 1 pm. The tours are in German but free audio guides are available in English, French, Italian, and Spanish.

See Rathaus and more on a Vienna City Hop-on Hop-off Tour .

6. MUSA (Museum Start Gallery Artothek)

Free admission to MUSA - a contemporary art museum in Vienna. TravelingWellForLess.com

Photo courtesy: Pezi , CC3

If you like  contemporary art , plan a visit to the MUSA (Museum Start Gallery Artothek) , has one of the largest collections of contemporary art in Austria . Admission is free.

You can also visit these museums for free:

  • District Museum Inner City (Bezirksmuseen)
  • Georg Kargl Fine Arts
  • Money Museum (Geldmuseum)

And on October 26 (Austrian National Holiday)  you get free admission to most of the museums in Vienna.

7. Street Art Passage

You can view a changing display of a variety of art from street art to typography on the bridge from the Spittelberg to the MuseumsQuartier.

Photo courtesy: Ben Frost via BetonBlumen

Thanks to the Street Art Passage , you can view a changing display of a variety of art from street art to typography on the bridge from the Spittelberg to the MuseumsQuartier .

8. Vienna Opera

You can watch a Vienna Opera for free. TravelingWellForLess.com

Sit outside and watch and opera for free

You can see a Vienna  opera for free . Yep, totally free. During the months of April, May, June, and September select performances are shown on a giant screen outside the Vienna State Opera.

Only 180 chairs are set up so get there early! And performances are shown regardless of the weather. So prepare to bundle up or bring rain gear. Need a place to rest after a long night out at the opera? Check out our top 7 Vienna hotels .

Make your evening memorable with a  gourmet dinner and concert at the Vienna Opera House . Or attend a Mozart concert where the performers are dressed in historical costumes .

Pro-tip:  Couldn’t get a free ticket? Here’s how to get Vienna Opera tickets for 3 euro .

9. Cinema Under the Stars

Free outdoor movies all summer in Vienna. TravelingWellForLess.com

Photo courtesy: WienTourismus

Thanks to the Austrian Film Museum and Synema – Society for Film and Media, you can watch free movies every summer at Karlsplatz Vienna . Arrive early to get a seat.

And from May to September you can enjoy award-winning movies shown in various outdoor locations from  Volxkino .

10. Music Film Festival

Nightly pre-recorded concerts on a large screen in the Vienna City Hall Square. Traveling Well For Less

Photo courtesy: Wien Tourismus

Every summer as part of the Music Film Festival you can watch nightly pre-recorded concerts on a large screen in the City Hall Square . Everything from the New York Metropolitan Opera , jazz performances , to Iggy Pop .

Admission is free  and food available for purchase.

11. Danube Island Festival (Donauinselfest)

Donauinselfest is a free 3 day music festival. Think Cochella, Burning Man, and X Games rolled into one. TravelingWellForLess.com

Photo courtesy: Florian Wieser via Flicker

Think Coachella, Burning Man, and X Games rolled into one and you have the Danube Island Festival (Donauinselfest) . But unlike those other events where you have to pay, the Donauinselfest is free .

The Donauinselfest is Europe’s largest open-air festival and held each year on the last weekend of June . This three-day event features live entertainment from 1,500 musicians and sporting events such as bike shows, climbing, and more.

12. Christmas Markets

From mid-November to Christmas, you can visit one of several Christmas markets in Vienna. TravelingWellForLess.com

Save your holiday shopping for the Christmas markets

You can shop till you drop from mid-November to Christmas at one of the many  Christmas markets in Vienna .

Join a small-group for a Christmas market tour including Belvedere Palace Market .

13. Mozart’s Grave

Visit St. Marxs Cemetery and see Mozart's grave. TravelingWellForLess.com

Photo courtesy: Ivisigoth67 , CC2.5

I like going to cemeteries to see headstones, especially when they have intricate designs. Okay, visiting a cemetery isn’t that creepy. As long as you visit during the day…

You can visit the St. Marx Cemetery and stop by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart’s grave. If you’re looking for   Beethoven, Brahms, Schubert, or Strauss, you’ll have to visit the Central Cemetery.

14. University of Music and Performing Arts

You can watch free concerts and performances at the  University of Music and Performing Arts Vienna . Not all events are free so double check the calendar.

15. Vienna Concert Cafes

Many cafes in Vienna like the Cafe Schwarzenberg, Cafe Landtmann, and Cafe Homburg offer free piano concerts . While the music is free, the coffee and pastries are not.

You can save money when you visit Vienna with this list of free things to do in Vienna .

From the Gardens at Schonbrunn Palace , operas , movies to Donauinselfest (a three-day music festival), and the Christmas markets, there are lots of things to do in Vienna that won’t cost you any money. Be sure to print or bookmark this post.

Looking for more free things to do in Vienna ? Stay tuned for  Family Friendly Free Things to Do in Vienna .

Related Posts on Vienna 

  • Top 5 Things You Must Do When You Visit Vienna, Austria
  • How to Get Vienna Opera Standing Room Tickets
  • Top 7 Vienna Hotels

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Monday 26th of December 2016

Great list. Regarding the Donauinselfest, here are the key facts fpor 2017, because: No real summer feeling without Donauinselfest!

The 34th Donauinselfest, Europe´s biggest open-air festival with free admission, runs from 23 rd to 25 th of June 2017 at Vienna, Austria.

location: Danube Island – Vienna Austria, Nordbrücke to Reichsbrücke Organizer: SPÖ Wien www.wien.spoe.at WEB: https://donauinselfest.at FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/Donauinselfest TWITTER: https://twitter.com/inselfest

Further informations about Vienna: http://www.wien.info First news regarding line-up, Rock The Island Contest and more, will be announced at 05th April 2017.

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Vienna on a Budget: 6 Free Things to do in Vienna, Austria by JetSettingFools.com

Vienna On A Budget: 6 Free Things To Do in Vienna, Austria

Welcome to JetSetting Fools, here you will find our best travel tips for destinations worldwide. Some of the links on this site are Affiliate Links and if you use them to make a purchase, we may earn a commission. For more information, read our Disclosure Policy .

With just 2 days in Vienna, Austria we wanted to explore the city, but we also wanted to keep our budget intact. A quick look at the high Vienna prices for a cup of coffee let us know that Vienna is not a budget destination. Is Vienna expensive? Well, that’s subjective.

Vienna, Austria is not the most expensive city in Europe ( Zurich has that honor), but it regularly ranks as one of the top 10 priciest cities on the continent and in the top 25 most expensive cities in the world. However, it is possible to visit Vienna on a budget – and we’ve highlighted 6 free things to do in Vienna that will suit everyone’s budget – from Vienna backpackers to European River Cruise passengers (because who doesn’t like free?).

6 Free Things To Do in Vienna, Austria

St. Stephen's Cathedral on Stephanplatz in Vienna, Austria

Let’s get right into our list of the Best Things To Do in Vienna, Austria!

Save, Bookmark or Pin our Vienna On a Budget Post to help plan your trip to Austria!

#1 Free Walking Tour Vienna

Metro tracks and pedestrian bridge on Wien River in Vienna, Austria

One of the best ways to experience Vienna for free is to discover the city by foot. Much of Vienna’s charm lies is the streets adorned with opulent architecture. The grandiose museums, ornate churches, spacious gardens and royal palaces can be admired from the outside without spending a single cent (and some churches are free to enter!).

Golden Johann Strauss Monument in Stadtpark in Vienna, Austria

We alternated our Vienna sightseeing between following a map to the top sights and simply wandering through the city along the riverside (where we found some incredibly interesting art!).

Urania Planetarium and riverwalk in Vienna, Austria

Top Tip : If a structured tour suits your style, the Vienna Free Tour offers guided, tip-based tours of the city ( Free Tours Website ) – or you can follow the self-guided free tour of Vienna, Austria by Big Boy Travel .

#2 Schonbrunn Palace Gardens, Vienna

Palace view from Schonbrunn Palace Gardens in Vienna, Austria

Schonbrunn Palace is Vienna’s top sight – but touring the palace requires a high-dollar ticket. What many tourists don’t know, however, is that the Schonbrunn Palace Gardens are open to the public – and one of the best things to do in Vienna for free! Stroll the grounds and follow the path up the hill for breathtaking views of the palace and city beyond.

Pro Tip : Want a cheap lunch in Vienna? Pack a picnic and a blanket to dine on the hill with a stunning palace view!

#3 Naschmarkt, Vienna

Stalls at Naschmarkt in Vienna, Austria

Visiting local markets is one of our favorite ways to get to a know a place. Perusing the produce and goods gives insight into the local cuisine – and in Vienna, the Naschmarkt is the market to see. Naschmarkt, which dates to the 1780s, has 100 market stalls, making it the city’s largest market.

Produce for sale at Naschmarkt in Vienna, Austria

Fresh vegetables, meat, spices and sweets are sold from the historic stalls. While purchasing anything requires money, checking out Naschmarkt – and partaking of any samples that are offered – doesn’t cost a dime. Naschmarkt should definitely make your list of Vienna free things to do!

Spices for sale at Naschmarkt in Vienna, Austria

Top Tip : Wondering what to eat in Vienna Naschmarkt for cheap? Find the Heise u Kalte Wurstwaren window at the Naschmarkt where they sell delicious sausages.

#4 57 Lounge at DC Tower

DC Tower on Danube River in Vienna, Austria

Standing on the Danube riverside at the height of 820 feet is the DC Tower – Austria’s tallest building. The upper floors are occupied by 57 Restaurant and Lounge, both of which offer incredible views of the city below.

City View from 57 Lounge at DC Tower in Vienna, Austria

While it will cost a pretty penny for a meal with a view or a cocktail at the bar, there is no cover charge to enter the lounge (making it one of the top free things to do in Vienna, Austria).

Bar at 57 Lounge in DC Tower in Vienna, Austria

Pro Tip : Head to 57 Lounge just before sunset. Order a moderately-priced beer from the bar so you can stay awhile and watch the city lights come on!

#5 Wurstelprater Amusement Park, Vienna

Historic Wiener Riesenrad Ferris Wheel at Wurstelprater Amusement Park in Vienna, Austria

One of our favorite free attractions in Vienna is the Wurstelprater amusement park. Home to the Wiener Riesenrad Ferris wheel, which was built in 1897 and ranked as the world’s tallest Ferris wheel from 1920 until 1985, there is no admission charge to enter the amusement park.

Roller coaster tracks at Wurstelprater Amusement Park in Vienna, Austria

The Wiener Riesenrad and other amusement park rides require tickets (ranging from €1.50 to €5 for most rides; €10 +tax for Ferris wheel), but the park itself is one of the free places to visit in Vienna.

Wurstelprater Amusement Park at Prater in Vienna, Austria

Top Tip : Tickets to the Wiener Riesenrad can be purchased in advance on Viator  or save money with a Ferris wheel and Zoo combo ticket . 

#6 Visit Free Museums Vienna, Austria

Empress Maria Theresa Monument on Maria-Theresien Platz in Museumsquartier in Vienna, Austria

There are more than 100 museums in Vienna – and some offer free admission days (often the first Sunday of the month). Visiting the museums on gratis days are one of the most popular Vienna things to do for free. You can find a list of free museums Vienna here , but always check the official site to confirm they still offer complimentary admission.

Ring Road at Volksgarten in Vienna, Austria

Pro Tip : If visiting museums is high on your Vienna to-do list, consider the Vienna museum pass that can save time and money. There are two options to choose from, so you will need to decide which works better for you.

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Top Tips for Visiting Vienna on a Budget

Baroque St. Peter's Church in Vienna, Austria

The Vienna currency is the Euro. Check current exchange rates .

Vienna Card vs Vienna Pass

Archduke Charles statue at Neue Burg Hofburg Palace on Heldenplatz in Vienna, Austria

In Vienna, there are two popular sightseeing cards that can help tourists save money. The Vienna Card offers discounts to more than 200 Vienna attractions. The Vienna Pass offers free entry into more than 60 attractions.

Both are available for multiple days (which cost more money) and include discounts/entry into the cities top sights. A third option is the Vienna Flexi Pass, which is probably more suitable for longer stays, but for a flat rate, offers entry into 3, 4 or 5 sights over a 30-day period. 

Top Tip : Sightseeing passes can be purchased in advance. 

  • Learn more about the Vienna Card
  • Book your Vienna Pass today
  • Buy the Vienna Flexi Pass for your trip

Where to Eat in Vienna

Sausage vendor Heise u Kalte Wurstwaren at Naschmarkt in Vienna, Austria

Seeking out cheap eats in Vienna isn’t the easiest task, but it’s not impossible. A trip to the grocery store will be the most cost-saving way to eat in Vienna. However, street food in Vienna – like kebabs and sausages to-go – are fairly inexpensive. With our two days in Vienna, we avoided eating in sit-down restaurants.

Top Tip : The Vienna café culture is difficult to resist, but usually comes at a high price – we saw ‘specials’ for a coffee and cake for €10.

Where to Stay in Vienna

Art Nouveau Majolikahaus by Otta Wagner at 40 Linke Wienzeile in Vienna, Austria

Our go-to resource for affordable accommodations is Airbnb . We have found that staying in apartments is often less expensive than hotel rooms – with the added benefit of a kitchen and, usually, more space. Vienna holiday apartments can also be searched on FlipKey (which is part of TripAdvisor) or on VRBO – Vacation Rentals By Owner . 

However, for those who prefer staying in traditional accommodations , there are many Vienna hotels to choose from in – or close to – the city center. Check out these top-rated hotels (based on guest reviews) priced under $200 USD/night for your upcoming trip: Novotel Wien Hauptbahnhof , Boutiquehotel Stadthalle or Hotel Austria – Wien . 

Budget travelers can search for Vienna Hostels – like Vienna Hostel Ruthensteiner and Wombat’s City Hostels Vienna Naschmarkt . 

Start your hotel search now for your trip to Vienna on Booking.com  

Before You Go To Vienna

  • Vienna is a walkable city…but only if you pack the right travel shoes ! Don’t forget a pair of lightweight and comfortable walking shoes for your trip. I (Sarah) have always packed these shoes by Columbia , Skechers and Reef . Kris prefers wearing these shoes by Merrell and Sanuk .
  • We’re certain you’ll be snapping tons of photos during your trip to Vienna. Rather than relying on your mobile phone to capture the sights, upgrade to an actual camera for higher quality photos. We travel with a Canon Rebel (which takes amazing photos and a Canon PowerShot ELPH (which takes beautiful pictures and is a slim and lightweight budget camera ).
  • It’s easy to get turned around in any foreign city (including Vienna), so make sure to have a good city map and/or guidebook before arriving.
  • If you haven’t already obtained travel insurance for your trip to Austria, consider traveling protected with World Nomads .
  • Whether you travel with a backpack or a suitcase , you’ll also want a great day pack to carry all your everyday travel essentials in!
  • Get (and stay) organized by using our Trip Planning Printables for your next vacation!

Start planning your trip to Vienna, Austria ! Search for the lowest airfares , the best accommodations and fun things to do …then start packing !   Want more travel planning tips? Head over to our Travel Planning page for more information and tips on traveling – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides page !

Looking for Budget Travel Tips to other Top Europeans Cities?  Great! Check out our detailed guides to Dublin , Edinburgh , Dusseldorf , Amsterdam , Frankfurt , Paris , London , Rome and Berlin !

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LIFESTYLE & TRAVEL BLOG IN VIENNA

Top free museums in vienna to visit on a budget (+ galleries and theaters).

BurgtheaterWienGuide

Last Updated on February 20, 2024 by gregor

Vienna’s cultural wonders without breaking the bank! In this guide, we unveil the top free museums, galleries, and theaters in the city, perfect for budget-conscious travelers. From timeless masterpieces at the Belvedere Palace to the avant-garde expressions at Belvedere 21, Vienna’s artistic tapestry is accessible to all. Dive into the rich heritage of the Austrian capital without spending a dime. Whether you’re a history buff, art enthusiast, or simply curious, these budget-friendly cultural hubs promise an enriching experience. Discover the essence of Vienna’s arts and culture without straining your wallet – a perfect blend of affordability and cultural immersion awaits!

The Austrian capital is one of the many cities that offers a great deal of culture and art. We understand that you are traveling on a budget, which is why we have listed down the top museums and galleries you can visit for free or at a low cost on your trip to Vienna.

Table of Contents

Free Museums, Galleries, And Theaters In Vienna You Can Enter

District museums.

Every Viennese district around the city has its own museum that allows you to enter without spending any money. Visiting a district museum is one of the best free things you can do. Some focus on niche themes, such as chimney sweeps, clowns, or bricks, while others focus on Vienna’s history. They are not related to each other, which is why each one offers a different opening time. To find out their opening time before you head on over.

Ostlicht (Gallery for Photography)

The free entry museum, Ostlicht Gallery, is a go-to spot for modern-day photography and is located in the old bread factory. It has been turned into a cultural and social space known as the Brotfabrik. The place opened back in 2012, and the loft-like space holds several exhibitions by local and solo artists from around the world.

Money Museum of the Oenb

If you are interested in learning the history of money without spending any, then head over to the money museum. The Central Bank of Austria offers a complete display of everything that is related to money. It’s a must-see in Vienna and completely free to enter.

  • Location:   Otto-Wagner-Platz 3, 1090
  • Website : Oenb  

Museum Startgalerie Artothek (MUSA)

The Museum Startgalerie Arthohek is a modern free art gallery, that is run by the Cultural Affairs Department of the City Administration. The MUSA features a special area that showcases works from the gallery’s collection but focuses solely on young and upcoming artists.

  • Location:  Felderstraße 6–8, 1010
  • Website:   musa. at

Guided Tours of City Hall

Vienna City Hall offers a complete guided tour of the space and offers visitors a chance to get up close and personal. This allows them to see where their hard-earned tax money is being spent and how business is done. Along with taking in the breathtaking Gothic architecture, the tour will take you through the entire space, so you can take in a great deal.

A free audio guide is also available upon request.

  • Location: Rathausplatz, 1010 Vienna
  • Website: City hall
  • Meeting point for guided tours : MON, WED, FRI at 1 pm, not on council meeting days, or public holidays.

Snow globe Museum

We all know that there are a lot of unique places in Vienna, and the Snow Globe Museum is one of them. This is where the first ever snow globe was made by Erwin Perzy in 1900. Learn how he came up with a bright idea and how it has evolved into what it is today. Make sure you don’t leave without getting your hands on your very own personalized snow globe as a souvenir.

  • Location: Original Vienna Snowglobe factory, Schumanngasse 87, 1170 Wien, Austria
  • Website: Snow Globe Museum

The Circus & Clown Museum

The Circus and Clown is a museum that only opens on Sundays in Vienna and is always free to enter. It focuses on the history of the circus world and how much it’s entwined with the capital. From props that have been used in the past to costumes that are still used today, you’ll learn all about what goes on behind the scenes.

  • Location: Circus-u Clownmuseum Wien, Ilgpl. 7, 1020 Wien, Austria
  • Website: The Circus & Clown Museum

Vienna Museums, Galleries And Theaters That Are Sometimes Free To Enter

Kunsthalle wien mq.

This art museum is one you can visit for free in Vienna. It’s a place to visit if you are interested in contemporary forms of art. As it offers a great range of exhibitions, that will blow you away. As the space is filled with work by local and international artists who showcase amazing talent.

  • Location:   MQ, Museumsplatz 1, 1070
  • Website:  kunsthallewien.at

Museum of Applied Arts (MAK)

MAK opened its doors back in 1864, and since then they have showcased thousands of exhibitions and art pieces. The place offers a great range of brilliance and focuses on applied arts, architecture, design, and contemporary art. This mesmerizing place offers the wide space you need to showcase any piece of art perfectly. Here you will find various exhibitions, from graphic designs to contemporary videos and even sculptures. When you are heading inside, you should keep your mind open to the world of possibilities.

Read detailed Visitors Guide: MAK MUSEUM OF APPLIED ARTS IN VIENNA, VISITORS INFO AND TIPS

  • Location: 1010, Stubenring 1
  • Website:   MAK Wien (Click)

Architecture Center Vienna (AzW)

The Architecture Centre Vienna (AzW) space highlights and explores things related to the city’s fascinating forms of architecture. They have a special skill where they showcase how urban developments and architecture shape our daily lives. In addition, they shed light on stunning architecture from all around the world. In addition, their primary focus is on interesting architecture found in Vienna and they talk about various aspects related to them.

  • Website:  azw.at

Wiener Staatsoper – Vienna State Opera

Wiener Staatsoper is the perfect place to be if you are looking for a fancy night out. This is an affordable choice that offers an experience that is hard to forget. Here you can enjoy quality opera for only a few euros and take with you an experience you will never forget. If you want the tickets, you will have to get in line, and one person is only able to purchase a single ticket. Keep your partner or group close to you. On the other hand, if you are a student, you can easily get a ticket from 8 to 28 euros depending on the seat and the show.

Read the detailed Visitors Guide: OPERA IN VIENNA – THE VIENNA OPERA HOUSES, TIPS, TICKETS 

  • Location:   Opernring 2, 1010
  • Website:   wiener- .at

The Volksoper is regarded as one of the leading opera houses in Vienna and offers a great range of entertainment, which includes opera, operetta, ballet, and musicals. The good news is that standing-room tickets start at 3 euros and go up to 8 euros. This depends on the performance, and sometimes you can purchase the tickets online. This gives you a chance to save a lot of time.

  • Location:   Währinger Straße 78, 1090
  • Website:   www.volksoper.at

Burgtheater

The Burgtheater is another free thing to do in Vienna’s city center. Its long-standing history will surely fascinate you. The place offers an experience you shouldn’t miss out on, as it comes packed with an experience you will never forget. As the place offers several unique tours and activities, you will be unable to find them.

  • Location:   Universitätsring 2, 1010 
  • Website:   www.burgtheater.at

Volkstheater

The theatre was built to offer the masses a touch of culture and art. This is why they offer different shows and art pieces that will help add to your cultural quest. You can easily grab a ticket when the box office opens, which is usually an hour before the show. Here you will be able to enjoy great architecture while enjoying a great show.

  • Location : Arthur-Schnitzler-Platz 1, 1070 Wien, Austria
  • Website:   Volkstheater

Theater in der Josefstadt

This is one of the oldest theaters in the area of Vienna, and luckily, it’s still running shows for you to enjoy. As you walk in, you will take in the beautiful architecture and history the place has to offer. Here you will experience a night that will be hard to forget as they showcase several classic, modern, and international shows for you to enjoy. You can take in all that the place has to offer with a mesmerizing show.

  • Location:   Josefstädter Straße 26, 1080  &  Kammerspiele Rotenturmstr. 20, 1010
  • Website: Josefstad t

Museums, Galleries, And Theaters That Are Free Entry On The First Sunday Of The Month

Römermuseum.

One of the exhibitions you can visit in Vienna for free is the Römermuseum. It’s devoted to the times when Vienna was a Roman city. From Roman ruins and relics to the stories about their occupation, some of the artifacts and information you’ll find here will truly blow your mind.

  • Location: Wien Museum Hermesvilla, Lainzer Tiergarten, 1130 Wien, Austria

Hermesvilla

For an interesting, free display of art and architecture, we’d strongly recommend you head over to Hermesvilla. It’s about 40 to 45 minutes away from the city and was given by Emperor Franz Joseph to Empress Elisabeth in the hope she would stay in Vienna for longer periods of time as she was an avid traveler.

Hermesvilla has been nicknamed the “Palace of Dreams.” It’s a permanent exhibition that displays the history behind the emperor and empress and what it was like to live in a lavish house.

  • Location: Lainzer Tiergarten, 1130 Wien, Austria
  • Website: Hermesvilla

Otto Wagner Pavillion Museums

Otto Wagner is a key figure in Viennese history as he was said to be behind the city’s modernization and was also an Art Nouveau architect. These locations are a representation of Wagner’s life. One is in a former train station building of the Stadbahn on Karlsplatz, which he designed, and the other is at the Hofpavillon Hietzing. Both of these are famous museums in Vienna.

  • Location: Wien Museum Otto Wagner Hofpavillion Hietzing, Schönbrunner Schloßstraße, 1130 Wien, Austria + Karlsplatz Metro Station, Karlsplatz, 1040 Wien, Austria
  • Website: Otto Wagner Pavillion Museums

Wien Museum Musa

The Wien Museum Musa is one of the best contemporary art museums in central Vienna. It’s situated in an old office building and is home to a whopping display of 30,000 pieces of Viennese art, including photos, paintings, sculptures, and more, created by about 4500 artists. Some are well-known, while others are young, up-and-coming artists. This art exhibition is well worth a visit.

  • Location: 1010 Vienna, Felderstrasse 6-8
  • Website: Wien Museum Musa

Johann Strauss Museum

Johann Strauss is famous for creating the world-renowned “The Blue Danube,” which is sometimes referred to as “Austria’s unofficial national anthem.” This museum is in memory of his great work. Inside, you can see the instruments he used, his paintings, and his furniture. The whole presentation is fascinating to see.

  • Location: Praterstraße 54, 1020 Wien, Austria
  • Website: Johann Strauss Museum

Beethoven Museum

Ludwig van Beethoven’s life and work are inextricably linked to Vienna. The famous Beethoven Museum is one of the many great free things to do in Vienna and is an admirable representation of the great work he produced, and it was even once his very own home. It contains 14 rooms filled with information about the house, how he lived in his house, and the legacy he left behind.

  • Location: Probusgasse 6, 1190 Wien, Austria
  • Website: Beethoven Museum

Museum of Military History (Heeresgeschichtliches Museum)

This surprisingly fascinating place offers military history with a touch of interest. You won’t feel that the tour is dry or boring. The military museum has a great amount of history to offer, and all kinds of items from the past will interest you, along with the addition of new techniques. As you know, Austria has been through a lot of wars and has uncovered some amazing war tools. Each of these is showcased here and showcased properly for you to enjoy. These include pictures of weapons, tanks, and arms.

  • Location: Arsenal 1, 1030 Wien, Austria
  • Website:   Military History Museum

Best Free Museums in Vienna

When exploring Vienna on a budget, you’ll be delighted to discover an array of exceptional museums that won’t cost you a cent. Immerse yourself in the city’s rich cultural offerings with these best free museums in Vienna:

The Kunsthistorisches Museum

The Kunsthistorisches Museum, or the Museum of Art History, is a treasure trove of classical art. Marvel at works by renowned artists such as Rembrandt and Vermeer without spending a dime. The grandeur of the building itself is an artistic masterpiece.

View Prices and Reviews

The Albertina

Home to a vast collection of graphic art, the Albertina offers free entry to its architectural wonders and impressive exhibitions. From Dürer to Picasso, the museum showcases the evolution of graphic arts throughout history.

The Leopold Museum

Dive into Austrian modern art at the Leopold Museum. Located in the MuseumsQuartier, this gem features masterpieces by Egon Schiele and Gustav Klimt. Enjoy the dynamic exhibitions that capture the essence of Vienna’s artistic spirit.

The Belvedere Gardens and Palace

While entry to the Belvedere Palace itself may have a fee, the stunning gardens surrounding it are free to explore. Take a leisurely walk among manicured lawns, fountains, and sculptures, enjoying the beauty of this Baroque masterpiece.

Vienna Art Experiences – Diverse Museums and Street Art Tours

Embark on an exclusive journey through the Albertina Museum’s masterpieces with a private tour. Explore the diverse collection, ranging from Old Masters to contemporary works, gaining unique insights into the art evolution. The private tour offers an intimate and personalized encounter with art, allowing you to delve deeper into the nuances of each masterpiece. It’s an immersive experience for art enthusiasts seeking a curated exploration.

MAK – Museum of Applied Arts Ticket

Immerse yourself in the world of applied arts with a ticket to the MAK. Explore innovative designs, crafts, and contemporary art, witnessing the intersection of creativity and functionality. The MAK is a treasure trove for design enthusiasts. From modern art installations to functional design exhibits, this museum provides a fascinating glimpse into the evolution of applied arts.

2-Hour Street Art Tour in Vienna

Discover the vibrant and dynamic side of Vienna’s urban art scene on a 2-hour street art tour. Uncover hidden murals, graffiti, and the stories behind each piece, revealing the city’s alternative artistic expressions. The street art tour offers a fresh perspective on Vienna, showcasing the city’s evolving cultural landscape. It’s an excellent way to witness the intersection of tradition and modernity through the lens of street art.

Ticket to the Heidi Horten Collection

Step into the world of contemporary art with a ticket to the Heidi Horten Collection. Experience a curated selection of modern masterpieces, providing a glimpse into one collector’s passion for diverse and influential artworks. The Heidi Horten Collection offers a unique journey through a collector’s discerning taste. It’s a testament to the individual connections people form with art, creating a narrative that goes beyond the confines of traditional museum spaces.

Entry Ticket Belvedere 21 & Contemporary Art

Explore the intersection of historical charm and contemporary creativity at Belvedere 21. This entry ticket opens the door to a collection where tradition meets avant-garde, providing a rich tapestry of artistic expression. Belvedere 21 seamlessly blends historical architecture with cutting-edge contemporary art. It’s a juxtaposition that adds a layer of intrigue to the overall museum experience, offering a dynamic dialogue between past and present.

Paid Entry Museums In Vienna That Won’t Break the Bank

  • HAUS DER MUSIK – HOUSE OF MUSIC VIENNA VISITOR’S GUIDE
  • JEWISH MUSEUM VIENNA – VISITOR’S INFORMATION AND TIPS
  • TECHNISCHES MUSEUM WIEN, VIENNA – VISITORS INFO AND TIPS
  • LEOPOLD MUSEUM IN VIENNA, SIGHTSEEING INFO, AND TIPS
  • ALBERTINA MODERN MUSEUM IN VIENNA – SIGHTSEEING INFO AND TIPS
  • NATURHISTORISCHES MUSEUM WIEN – SIGHTSEEING INFO AND TIPS
  • MOZARTHAUS VIENNA – A TRAVEL GUIDE TO MOZART’S HOUSE
  • VIENNA BELVEDERE PALACES AND BELVEDERE MUSEUMS, ULTIMATE VISITOR GUIDE
  • THE EMPRESS SISI MUSEUM IN THE HOFBURG IN VIENNA
  • A QUICK TRAVEL GUIDE TO VIENNA’S SCHÖNBRUNN PALACE, VIENNA AUSTRIA
  • IMPERIAL TREASURY VIENNA, SIGHTSEEING INFO AND TIPS (KAISERLICHE SCHATZKAMMER WIEN)

More Travel Tips and Guides of Vienna

The ViennaBlog has thoroughly studied all the attractions but also hidden secrets to uncover in Vienna. (Click the Links below to get to the information) Here is the  Vienna Ultimate Top 50 Bucket List Here is the  Best of Vienna in 4 hours Here is the  Best of Vienna in 4 hours (Summer Edition) Here are the  Best 5 things to do in Vienna the most liveable city in the world Here are the  Vienna Old Streets in the Historic Center Here is the  Spittelberg Village in Vienna

There isn’t a specific Vienna museum pass, but there is a Vienna City Pass, which gives you access to over 70 attractions for a set fee. For more information, Vienna Pass  One Day in Vienna: The Perfect 1-Day Itinerary The Top Authentic Viennese Experiences You Must Enjoy Vienna’s Food Guide: Naschmarkt – Most Popular Viennese Food Market Vienna Food Guide: Local Viennese Food You Must Eat

Here are a few examples of museums in Vienna that have offered free admission under certain conditions: The Hofburg Palace: Imperial Apartments The Hofburg complex has areas that are open to the public for free, such as the courtyards. However, access to certain sections, like the Imperial Apartments, may have an admission fee. Austrian National Library (Österreichische Nationalbibliothek) The State Hall of the Austrian National Library sometimes offers free admission on specific days or during certain events. Museum of Applied Arts (MAK – Österreichisches Museum für angewandte Kunst) The MAK occasionally has free admission days, especially during special events or exhibitions. Museum of Natural History (Naturhistorisches Museum) and Museum of Art History (Kunsthistorisches Museum) These museums are located opposite each other and may offer free entry on certain occasions or during special events.

Here are some key places where you can experience Klimt’s art in the city: Belvedere Palace (Belvedere Schloss) – Upper Belvedere: The Belvedere houses an extensive collection of Austrian art, and it is one of the most significant locations to see works by Gustav Klimt. “The Kiss” and “Judith and the Head of Holofernes” are among his famous paintings displayed here. Leopold Museum: Located in the MuseumsQuartier, the Leopold Museum features an impressive collection of Austrian modern art, including a substantial number of works by Gustav Klimt. The Secession Building (Wiener Secessionsgebäude): The Secession Building is an iconic structure in Vienna, and inside, you can find the famous Beethoven Frieze by Gustav Klimt. The building itself is a significant part of Vienna’s artistic history. Kunsthistorisches Museum (Museum of Art History): The Kunsthistorisches Museum houses “Portrait of Adele Bloch-Bauer I,” one of Klimt’s most famous paintings. It is part of the museum’s extensive art collection. Vienna Museum (Wien Museum): The Wien Museum has a collection of Klimt’s sketches, drawings, and other works. It provides insight into the artist’s creative process and lesser-known aspects of his artistic output.

Kahlenberg: Located to the northwest of the city, Kahlenberg is a hill in the Vienna Woods (Wienerwald). It provides a breathtaking view of Vienna and the surrounding countryside. You can reach the top by car, bus, or even by hiking if you enjoy outdoor activities. The Kahlenberg area also has restaurants and cafes where you can enjoy the view while sipping coffee or having a meal. Danube Tower (Donauturm): The Danube Tower is one of Vienna’s iconic landmarks and stands near the Danube River. Take an elevator to the observation deck for a panoramic view of the city. On a clear day, you can see for miles around. The tower also has a rotating restaurant, making it a great place to enjoy a meal with a view.

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Home » Europe » Austria » Vienna

17 BEST Places to Visit in Vienna (2024)

The Austrian capital is famous for its elegant architecture, imperial past, opera and classical music, Christmas markets, and the annual Carnival with its opulent balls. With culture, history, great dining, and plenty of ways to have family fun, Vienna is a great European destination for all.

Vienna is a huge and sprawling city, which is divided into several distinct neighbourhoods. Some of the city’s best places are quite spread out and deciding what to add to your Vienna itinerary can be difficult.

We’re here to help! Stop stressing about your travel planning and tick off these best places to visit in Vienna for a great time in the sophisticated Austrian capital city.

With a blend of well-known spots, Vienna must-sees, and local hidden gems, some of these best places to visit in Vienna are bound to amaze you!

Need a place quick? Here’s the best neighbourhood in Vienna:

These are the best places to visit in vienna, faq on the best places to visit in vienna, enjoy the best places to visit in vienna.

Vienna buildings

Innere Stadt

Innere Stadt is the most central neighbourhood in Vienna, and where most of the historical sights are located. It is your best option to stay there if you are visiting the city for the first time, as you will be close to everything and in the centre of the action.

  • Get a slice of Austria’s most famous cake at the Sacher Hotel;
  • Get a glimpse of the Habsburg’s family life at the Hofburg;
  • Visit Stephansdom, Vienna’s most famous religious building.

Before you fulfil your lifelong dream of seeing the Venus de Vilendorf in person, you will need to book your accommodation in the neighborhood of your choice. Lucky for you, we’ve compiled them all for you! Be sure to check out where to stay in Vienna before scrolling into the fun below.

vienna free places to visit

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#1 – Schönbrunn Palace – An awesome place to visit in Vienna for half a day!

Schonbrunn Palace

  • Gigantic Baroque palace;
  • Beautiful formal gardens;
  • Primary summer home of the imperial Habsburgs;
  • Lots of art and antiques.

Why it’s awesome: The enormous Schönbrunn Palace as seen today was built in the mid-1700s. The area was previously owned by a mighty Roman emperor, who used it as a hunting ground, and it later became the main summer residence of the Hapsburg rulers. Today it operates as a museum and is one of the most popular attractions in Vienna, if not Austria. It is also a UNESCO-listed site. The huge palace has more than 1,400 rooms and visitors can explore the lush interiors on various tours. The gorgeous gardens are free to explore, with formal flowerbeds, beautiful sculptures, faux Roman ruins, vineyards, a maze, the Gloriette, and more. The Palm House and the Desert House contain interesting flora from around the world.

What to do there: Book a tour to admire the opulent interiors of Schönbrunn Palace, with glorious rooms that are filled with an abundance of treasures, art, antiques, and period furnishings. The Imperial Tour takes you through 22 rooms, including opulent staterooms and private residences of former leader Franz Joseph (Austria’s longest-reigning ruler) and Sisi.

If you want to see more of the stunning palace and delve even deeper into the lives of the Hapsburg rulers the Grand Tour visits 40 lavish rooms. See how the younger members of the imperial family lived at the Children’s Museum, visit the Carriage Museum, explore the lush gardens, try your hand at making strudel, and admire the various plant species housed within the Desert House and historic glass and iron Palm House.

#2 – St. Stephen’s Cathedral – One of the most religious places to see in Vienna

St. Stephens Cathedral

  • Long history;
  • Beautiful architecture;
  • Active place of worship;
  • Major city landmark.

Why it’s awesome: St. Stephen’s Cathedral is one of the most recognisable landmarks in Vienna. The impressive Gothic and Romanesque church dates back to the 1300s, and it stands on the site of earlier churches. It has seen many changes over the years and stood the test of time through major events. The tallest tower reaches 136 metres (446 feet) tall. It has served as an important lookout point during times of trouble. The multi-coloured roof is a striking feature with a mosaic of a double-headed eagle, symbolic of the Habsburg empire. Various statues stand outside. Inside, there are several chapels dedicated to different saints, statues, religious art, and a striking Gothic pulpit. Underneath the church, there are crypts and catacombs.

What to do there: Admire the spectacular façade of St. Stephen’s Cathedral before entering through the Giant’s Door. Look above and you’ll see intricate sculptures. Take a guided tour of the stunning cathedral, or take a self-guided audio tour, to learn more about the magnificent building and its long and interesting history. You’ll also learn lots of interesting facts about the beautiful artwork within the cathedral.

Don’t miss seeing the Byzantine Maria Pötsch Icon, thought to be miraculous, and the statue known as Christ with a Toothache. Step into the smaller statues, including those dedicated to St. Bartholomew, St. Valentine, St. Katherine, and St. Barbara, and spend some quiet time in contemplation or prayer. Descend into the gloomy catacombs and see the many bones on display, go up the North Tower to view Austria’s biggest bell, and ascend the South Tower for amazing city views.

vienna free places to visit

With a Vienna City Pass , you can experience the best of Vienna at the CHEAPEST prices. Discounts, attractions, tickets, and even public transport are all standards in any good city pass – be sure invest now and save them $$$ when you arrive!

#3 – Prater – Easily one of the most fun places to check out in Vienna

Prater

  • Family-friendly attraction;
  • Large public park;
  • Fun amusement park;
  • Opportunities to enjoy nature.

Why it’s awesome: Prater is a large public park in Leopoldstadt, one of the more popular neighbourhoods in Vienna. Green and leafy with a main path that’s lined with horse chestnut trees, the park is a great place to enjoy nature and relax outdoors. One section of the park has an amusement park. It’s one of the best places in Vienna to take kids. It is also one of the oldest amusement parks across the globe. The park also has a planetarium, a museum, shops, places to eat and drink, and various other attractions. There is no charge to enjoy the pretty park. Admission to the amusement park is also free; visitors simply pay for the rides that they wish to enjoy.

What to do there: Stroll along the tree-lined Hauptallee, take a seat on a bench to enjoy time in nature, and visit the Prater Museum. Turn your attention to the skies at the planetarium and step into a magical fairytale land at the Grottenbahn. Take a ride on the soaring Prater Wheel for amazing views over Vienna, discover the park on the historic Liliputbahn light railway, and feel the rush on the Vienna Rollercoaster. The wooden rollercoaster has an air of nostalgia and is suitable for people of all ages. Get a thrilling adrenaline rush on Praterturm, a huge flying swing.

#4 – Kriminalmuseum – Quite the quirky place in Vienna!

Kriminalmuseum Vienna

  • Fascinating museum with a focus on darker themes
  • Lesser-visited attraction
  • Only suitable for adults
  • Grisly exhibits

Why it’s awesome: It might not be everyone’s cup of tea but a visit to Kriminalmuseum definitely ranks highly when it comes to the most unusual things to do in Vienna . Filled with gruesome and grisly items, the museum takes a look at crime through the country’s past. From human remains and murder weapons to instruments of torture and death masks, the museum will definitely appeal to fans of dark tourism.

Exhibits have decent explanations in English, though you can also pick up a leaflet with more detailed explanations inside. Items are spread across some 20 rooms and, though it may look small from the outside, the museum is actually quite large and crammed full of unusual memorabilia.

What to do there: Prepare to be shocked when visiting Vienna’s Kriminalmuseum. Do note that it is not a suitable place to take kids, and even some adults may find the horrific displays a bit too much to handle. Learn about the nation’s criminal past as you wander through the maze-like rooms and see all types of bizarre and terrifying objects and artefacts. Travel back to the Medieval period and discover crimes from times gone by right up to the present day.

Various criminal activities are covered, including counterfeit currency, thefts, and prostitution, though the sections dedicated to murder are generally the most morbidly fascinating. Some of the more shocking items on display include a gruesome mummified head of a felon who was sentenced to death, bullet-hole-ridden skulls, exhibits were used in the horrific study of eugenics, large photographs of murder victims, and pornographic images.

#5 – Naschmarkt – A must-see for foodies!

Naschmarkt

  • Large and colourful market;
  • Huge array of food;
  • One of the most popular markets in Vienna.

Why it’s awesome: The large Naschmarkt is one of the best places to visit in Vienna for an incredible assortment of tasty fare. In operation since the 16th century, it’s one of the most popular markets in the capital. In times gone by vendors would travel to the market with goods from far and wide, bringing produce from local farms and from foreign lands.

Today there is still a wide variety of global cuisine as well as traditional Austrian favourites. From made-to-order meals to fresh ingredients, the colourful and vibrant market has everything that a foodie could possibly want. On Saturdays, there is also a small but interesting flea market, with diverse retro, vintage, and used goods.

What to do there: Walk around the bustling market, pausing to see what’s for sale at the 120-odd stalls. If you’re staying in self-catering accommodation you can pick up a range of fresh vegetables, meats, fish, and other ingredients to cook up a feast for dinner.

Visit the bakeries, delicatessens, and cheese shops to pick up tasty treats for a picnic. Grab quick and easy bites for a lunch on the go or sit down in one of the restaurants to take your time over your meal. You’ll find everything from sushi, kebabs, and curries, to Chinese stir-fried dishes, Austrian sausages, and pizza. It’s easy to see how the Naschmarkt is one of the best places to eat in Vienna.

#6 – Karlskirche – A great place to see in Vienna if you love architecture

Karlskirche

  • Unusual and distinctive architecture;
  • Gorgeous frescoes;
  • Constructed to give thanks;
  • Regularly hosts classical concerts.

Why it’s awesome: The stunning Karlskirche is one of the most beautiful architectural hotspots in Vienna. Building began in the early 1700s, and the church was completed in 1737. The story behind its construction is interesting: the striking place of worship was built to honour a saint called Charles Borromeo. When the city was struck by a plague epidemic in the early 1700s, the ruler vowed to build a church dedicated to the saint (a man known for helping victims of the plague) if the disease left the city.

It blends several architectural styles, including Byzantine, Roman, Greek, Baroque, and Renaissance. Topped with a green dome, it’s an impressive sight from the outside. Inside, there are fine statues and frescoes. The great composer, Vivaldi, was buried in the grounds, although his tomb has long since been lost. The church hosts regular concerts in his memory.

What to do there: Appreciate the splendid details, both inside and outside, taking time to admire the carved columns, colourfully painted ceiling, reliefs, and statues. There are plenty of symbolic features to spot too as light floods in through the main window. See the delicately carved wooden pulpit, scenes showing St. Borromeo ascending to heaven, angels, and an interesting painting that depicts the Virgin Mary praying for the plague in Vienna to stop.

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#7 – The Hofburg – Possibly one of the most important places to visit in Vienna

The Hofburg

  • One of the world’s biggest palace complexes;
  • Lots of history and culture;
  • Former  home to Habsburg emperors;
  • Numerous interesting collections.

Why it’s awesome: Exploring the enormous palace complex of the Hofburg is a Vienna must do. Once home to the imperial court, there are many elegant buildings, some of which house fascinating museums today. Strolling around the complex really helps visitors to travel back in time and see what royal life was like in Vienna in times gone by. The royal home until the end of WWI, it was the place where much European history was made. Different emperors left their mark on the complex, creating a fascinating blend of architectural styles and details.

While there are three main parts of interest—the Sisi Museum, the Imperial Apartments, and the Imperial Silver Collection—the huge complex has a wealth of other terrific things to see. Buildings are spread over 59 acres (24 hectares), with charming gardens and elegant squares between. Astonishingly, there are more than 2,500 rooms across the complex!

What to do there: Take at least a few hours to walk through the grounds of the massive Hofburg complex and admire the stunning buildings from the outside. Be sure to charge your camera as you’re likely to want to take lots of pictures! Ogle some 7,000 exquisite items in the Imperial Silver Collection. Learn more about the life of Empress Sisi as you view a wide collection of personal items in the Sisi Museum. See the lavish quarters where royalty once lived in the spectacular Imperial Apartments. Visit the Royal Chapel, which is the oldest part of the palace complex. Marvel at the wonderful interiors of the Austrian National Library. See the astronomical clock on the outside of the Amalienburg.

#8 – Spanish Riding School – One of the most amazing places in Vienna!

Spanish Riding School

  • Part of the Hofburg complex;
  • See handsome Lipizzaner stallions;
  • Rich traditions;
  • Beautiful architecture.

Why it’s awesome: The Spanish Riding School is part of the enormous Hofburg palace complex. Established in the 1570s, the high-class riding school is among the top-four most prestigious horse riding schools across the globe. Additionally, it’s one of the oldest such academies in the world too. A place where visitors can watch fine equestrian traditions, the school takes its name from the fact that the thoroughbred stallions had Spanish roots.

Today’s fine steeds are all bred in Austria, but all are graceful Lipizzaner horses. The training has military roots and the methodical training process can take up to three years for riders and four to six years for horses.

What to do there: See the fine building that houses the Spanish Riding School, a pale structure with plenty of natural sunlight. Get to the academy early in the morning to watch the elegant pedigree horses at their morning training sessions. Watch as riders salute to the large portrait of Emperor Charles VI before beginning to ride. Admire the smart uniforms of the riders and the perfect poise and condition of both man and beast and be impressed by the skilled manoeuvres. It’s well worth obtaining tickets to a special performance too if there is one scheduled for your time in Vienna.

Wonder how to spend a weekend in Vienna? Head over to our  insider’s Weekend in Vienna guide!

#9 – Danube Tower – Great place to visit in Vienna for couples!

Danube Tower

  • Incredible sweeping views;
  • Highest landmark in Austria;
  • Next to the Danube River;
  • Cool revolving restaurant.

Why it’s awesome: The Danube Tower (Donauturm) is one of the most romantic points of interest in Vienna. Standing proudly at 252 metres (827 feet) tall, it’s the tallest structure in all of Austria. Constructed in the 1960s, the soaring tower is located alongside the banks of the River Danube. It is surrounded by pretty parkland.

A major sight on the Viennese skyline it’s not only good to admire from afar; visitors can go to the observation platform to soak up fabulous views of the city and beyond. There are also two rotating eateries (one restaurant and one cafe) where couples can relax with each other while enjoying the slowly changing vistas.

What to do there: Snap plenty of pictures of the iconic tower from outside before riding in one of the high-speed elevators up to the observation platform. Spot major landmarks in Vienna from your high vantage point and enjoy the bird’s eye views over the capital. Savour a tasty meal in the revolving restaurant or sink your teeth into a light bite in the café and admire the views for longer. The romantic dinners and special events help to inject even more romance and passion into your visit if you really want to impress that special someone.

#10 – Stadtpark – A beautiful outdoor place to visit in Vienna

Stadtpark Vienna

  • Biggest city park in Vienna;
  • Pleasant spot to relax and enjoy nature;
  • Interesting monuments and statues;
  • Peaceful ambience.

Why it’s awesome: The lovely Stadtpark is the largest public park in Vienna. Located in the heart of the city, it’s a nice place to take a break and spend time in nature. Open since the early 1860s and free to enter, the park is set out somewhat like a traditional English garden. Pathways meander through the lovely landscapes and a river flows through the middle of the park. Bridges span the waterway. Statues, memorials, trees, flowers, and water features all help to add to the visual beauty. There are several places to eat and drink in the park too.

What to do there: Escape the hustle and bustle of the city streets and enjoy a peaceful walk through the greenery of Stadtpark. The open lawns are perfect places for kids to run and play and adults can follow the paths through the park, relax in the sunshine with a good book, or sip a drink in one of the cafes.

Enjoy the views from the bridge that crosses the River Wien and see ducks and large fish swimming below in the waters. Admire the flower clock and pause at the statues dedicated to various famous composers, including Franz Schubert, Anton Bruckner, Robert Stolz, and Franz Lehar. Don’t miss having a selfie with the gleaming statue of Johann Strauss.

#11 – Hundertwasser Haus – One of the more unique places to visit in Vienna!

Hundertwasser Haus Vienna

  • Unusual piece of architecture;
  • Colourful and eye-catching;
  • Delightful roof and vertical gardens;
  • Free movie.

Why it’s awesome: The unusual Hundertwasser Haus is certainly a conversation starter. One of the most unusual famous places in Vienna, the colourful block was created in the early 1980s and is the work of Friedensreich Hundertwasser, an artist turned architectural designer.

Not only are there few straight lines and a lot of colours, but it’s also a living, breathing building thanks to the many plants and trees that grow from balconies, trellises, on the roof, and in pots. Indeed, there are more than 200 plants around the building’s exterior. Inside there are apartments and offices and there are both shared and communal terraces. Do note, however, that the insides are not open to visitors.

What to do there: Marvel at the unique building from the outside, appreciating the balance between nature and the man-made. Call into the ground-level coffee shop for a quick pick-me-up and to watch a free short film about the house. Visit the cool Hundertwasser Village across the street, created in the early 1990s. It’s a quirky shopping centre designed in the artist’s signature style and it features a pretty square, diverse shops, and a bar. You can also take a short stroll along the street to see another of Hundertwasser’s creations: Kunst Haus Wien.

#12 – Vienna State Opera – A great place to visit Vienna at night

Vienna State Opera Vienna

  • One of the best opera houses in the world;
  • Diverse program of events;
  • Glorious façade and interiors;
  • Long history.

Why it’s awesome: The fabulous Vienna State Opera House is a Vienna must see. Originally built in the 1850s, the city’s first opera house was largely destroyed during bombing in World War Two. It was later renovated and rebuilt, in keeping with the original style. The building has a grand façade and stunning interiors, with ornate lobbies, grand marble staircases, luxurious chandeliers, and a large sophisticated auditorium.

Often said to be among the top opera houses across the globe it is also one of the busiest performance venues. The program is diverse. Various famous composers and performers have graced the stages over the years, and members of the Vienna Philharmonic are recruited from the musicians in the Vienna State Opera’s orchestra.

What to do there: Gaze upon the elegant building from the outside, noticing the two equestrian statues, the two fountains (that symbolise happiness, music, joy, and dance against revenge, love, sorrow, and seduction), and the five bronze statues that represent love, comedy, fantasy, tragedy, and heroism.

See the stunning interiors on a 40-minute guided tour, visiting the foyer, the opulent staircase, the ornate state rooms, and the auditorium. You’ll also hear interesting facts and anecdotes about the building and performers. Spend a memorable evening at a spectacular performance, with various operas and ballets on the ever-changing schedule.

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#13 – Schönbrunn Zoo – Awesome place to visit in Vienna with kids!

Schonbrunn Zoo

  • One of the oldest zoos in the world;
  • Within the Schönbrunn Palace complex;
  • Home to animals from across the globe.

Why it’s awesome: Wondering what to do in Vienna with children? The large Schönbrunn Zoo (known locally as Tiergarten Schönbrunn) is one of the best Vienna vacation ideas for families. Found within the ground of the extensive Schönbrunn Palace, the zoo was built in the 1750s to house the imperial menagerie. It is one of the oldest still-operating zoos in the world today.

Despite many setbacks over the years, today the zoo contains an exciting selection of animals from all four corners of the globe. The large enclosures are well maintained and clean and there are various habitats for visitors to explore. There’s a good selection of places to eat and drink throughout the zoo too.

What to do there: Observe an array of creatures from different parts of the planet, including koalas, elephants, tigers, orangutans, penguins, zebras, sea lions, wolves, otters, polar bears, camels, bats, and deer. The giant pandas are usually popular with kids and adults alike.

There are several habitats and themed areas to explore, including the rainforest house (which simulates conditions in the Amazon Jungle), the polarium, an aquarium, the big cat house, the desert house, and a children’s petting zoo. Take a ride on the quaint Schönbrunn Panorama Train, watch various species being fed, and sign up for special behind-the-scenes and interactive tours.

#14 – Vienna City Hall – One of the most incredible free places to go to in Vienna

Vienna City Hall

  • Neo-Gothic architectural gem;
  • Official seat of Vienna’s mayor;
  • Free guided tours;
  • Beautifully illuminated at night.

Why it’s awesome: Vienna City Hall is a striking building that dates back to the late 1800s. Built in a Neo-Gothic style, it emulates other fine non-religious Gothic structures around Europe. The large building boasts five towers and a number of interior courtyards. There are more than 1,500 rooms inside, spread across six storeys, along with two basements.

The interiors can be visited on a free guided tour (various languages are available on audio devices, though the main tour is in German). There are often events, like markets, just inside the main entrance, and there’s also a stylish onsite restaurant that is open to members of the public.

What to do there: Admire the beautiful building from the outside and see the interesting Rathausmann statue perched atop the tallest tower. Affixed in 1882, the figure is today one of the city’s symbols. Rest for a while in the grassy Rathauspark in front of the building. Take a free tour to see parts inside the building; tours include the Festival Hall, Arcade Courtyard, Council Chamber, Stone Halls, Senate Chamber, and Coat of Arms Halls. Treat yourself to a nice meal in the restaurant before continuing your sightseeing in Vienna.

#15 – Graben – A great place in Vienna if you love to shop!

flickr-vienna-graben

  • Luxurious shopping street;
  • Great places to dine;
  • Historic buildings;
  • Plague column.

Why it’s awesome: Located in the heart of the city, Graben is a busy shopping street with Roman roots. It was a popular shopping area during the times of the Habsburgs, with many fine stores with long traditions remaining today. A lot of the buildings date back to the 17th and 18th century and there are many beautiful architectural details.

Shops sell an assortment of wares and it’s a popular place for both locals and tourists to spoil themselves and indulge in some retail therapy. There are elegant restaurants and cafes too. The marble plague column is an interesting sight along the street.

What to do there: Walk along the refined mostly pedestrianised streets and admire the beautiful buildings. Fine examples include the Grabenhof and the Equitable Palace. Don’t miss seeing the plague column, built in the late 1600s to remember those who died during the devastating epidemic. The sculpture is highly ornate with many symbolic elements.

You can also pause to admire the lovely fountains. Window shop in time-honoured establishments like Augarten porcelain factory, Nägele & Strubell perfumerie, and the high-class jewellers of Heldwein. You’ll find shops selling a wide array of other goods too, including clothing, homewares, accessories, and souvenirs. Stop at a café for refreshments and a spot of people watching along the bustling street.

#16 – Kunsthistorisches Museum – A great place to visit in Vienna if you are alone/traveling solo

Kunsthistorisches Museum

  • Splendid art museum;
  • Stunning building;
  • Lavish décor;
  • Imperial history.

Why it’s awesome: The splendid Kunsthistorisches Museum is the biggest art museum in Austria. The glorious palace-like building was constructed in the late 1800s and the museum was opened by Franz Joseph I in the early 1890s. The emperor wanted the museum to house some of the amazing pieces of art from The Hofburg and make collections accessible to the public. Inside, the building has opulent interiors and numerous eye-catching artworks. Collections include portraits, Greek and Roman antiquities, coins, sculptures, and items from Egypt and the Near East.

What to do there: Walk across Maria-Theresien-Platz and see the almost identical facing buildings of the Kunsthistorisches Museum and the Natural History Museum, both built at the same time. A large statue of Empress Maria Theresa stands at the heart of the square. The dome-topped museums are architectural masterpieces. Step inside the museum and you’re sure to be impressed by the glorious interiors, complete with polished marble, sweeping staircases, gold leaf, colourful frescoes, and intricate ornamental plasterwork.

Take time to view the impressive art collection spread through the museum, with pieces by European masters and ancient artefacts among the exhibits. Once you’ve finished, you might want to visit the nearby Modern Art Museum, housed in the old imperial stables, to see even more interesting artworks.

vienna free places to visit

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#17 – Capuchin Church – One of Vienna’s coolest historical sites!

Capuchin Church

  • Final resting place of many Habsburg rulers;
  • Spiritual vibe;
  • Unassuming façade;
  • Interesting tours.

Why it’s awesome: Officially named the Church of Saint Mary of the Angels, the 1632 Capuchin Church is one of the most historic hotspots in Vienna. The fairly plain exterior and simple experience gives no clue as to the building’s significance, and it would be easy to stroll right on past without realising that, in fact, the church is a major attraction.

The inside of the church is also fairly plain, with no aisle, whitewashed walls, orderly seating, and a pretty but unremarkable altar. The real interest, however, lies underground in the crypt. The Imperial Crypt contains the tombs of many people from the Imperial Family—it is here that many mighty emperors and empresses were laid to rest.

What to do there: Enter the church and absorb the tranquil and spiritual air, perhaps taking a seat to rest for a few moments in thought. Descend into the Imperial Crypt to see the tombs and funerary urns of deceased royals.

More than 140 Royals have been laid to rest here, including 12 former emperors and 18 empresses. Some of the tombs are fairly simple, while others are highly ornate. The tomb of Maria Theresa and Holy Roman Emperor Franz I is large and detailed. You can visit independently, though there also tours that will help you to learn more about the people buried beneath the peaceful church.

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Find out what people want to know about the best places to visit in Vienna

Is Vienna worth visiting?

Yes, Vienna is definitely worth a visit for lovers of culture, art and history.

Which is the best palace to visit in Vienna?

The Schönbrunn Palace is the most visited palace in Vienna and is a truly beautiful building.

What is Vienna famous for?

Vienna is famous for being the capital of Austria and being the home to famous classical musicians such as Beethoven and Mozart.

Can you visit Vienna in 2 days?

Yes, two days should be enough to see all the main highlights.

Wonderful Vienna offers a wealth of things for people of all ages, though there is definitely a strong focus on history, culture, music, architecture, and the arts.

Kahlenberg and Volksgarten are pretty outdoor spots if you want to get away for a while and spend time in nature, and the Krapfenwald Pools are a top place for soothing relaxation.

Discover the wealth of knowledge housed in the establishments of the MuseumsQuartier and tour the city’s other top-class museums. Fantastic museums to add to your list when you explore Vienna include the Sigmund Freud Museum, Albertina, the Museum of Natural History, the Museum of Ethnology, the Jewish Museum, the Austrian Museum of Folk Life and Folk Art, and Time Travel Vienna. Fans of classical music shouldn’t miss the Johann Strauss House, and if you’re more into places that are a bit quirky the Globe Museum and Clock Museum may be right up your street.

Spend a day exploring the Danube Island, get off the beaten track in Ottakring, enjoy more imperial grandeur at Belvedere Palace, stroll through the quiet Central Cemetery, and visit the lesser-known Church am Steinhof. You can even take an easy day trip to Bratislava, the capital of neighbouring Slovakia.

For your travel plans, be sure to check out our guide on whether Vienna is expensive or not . Be prepared with the right budget!

There is certainly no need to ever feel bored in the Austrian capital! Add these best places to visit in Vienna to your bucket list and discover one of Europe’s most elegant destinations .

vienna free places to visit

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Lu Frey

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THE 10 BEST Free Things to Do in Vienna Region

Best free things to do in vienna region.

  • 5.0 of 5 bubbles
  • 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
  • 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
  • Leopoldstadt
  • Budget-friendly
  • Good for a Rainy Day
  • Good for Kids
  • Good for Couples
  • Good for Big Groups
  • Honeymoon spot
  • Hidden Gems
  • Good for Adrenaline Seekers
  • Adventurous
  • Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

vienna free places to visit

1. Historic Center of Vienna

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2. St. Stephen's Cathedral

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3. Schonbrunner Gardens

vienna free places to visit

5. Peterskirche

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6. Rathausplatz

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7. Stephansplatz

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8. Ringstrasse

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9. Wiener Zentralfriedhof

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10. Hundertwasserhaus

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11. Volksgarten

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12. Church of the Jesuits

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13. Österreichisches Parlament

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14. Stadtpark

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15. Graben and Kohlmarkt

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16. Otto Wagner Kirche am Steinhof

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17. Kahlenberg

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18. Votivkirche

vienna free places to visit

19. Vienna Naschmarkt

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20. Christmas Market on Rathausplatz

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21. Maria Theresia Denkmal

vienna free places to visit

22. Vienna Woods

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23. Mariahilfer Strasse

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24. Kultur und Weihnachtsmarkt Schloß Schönbrunn

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25. Burggarten

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26. Michaelerplatz

vienna free places to visit

27. Augustinerkirche

vienna free places to visit

28. Spittelberg Christmas Market

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29. Kaerntnerstrasse

vienna free places to visit

30. Judenplatz Holocaust Memorial

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What travelers are saying

Lilia O

18 top things to do in Vienna

Jul 1, 2021 • 8 min read

JULY 9, 2017: A young couple riding bicycles on Danube Island in the Donaustadt district. St. Francis of Assisi Church is in the background.

Cycling on Danube Island in Vienna's Donaustadt district. © Balakate/Shutterstock

Museums filled with masterpieces, brilliant baroque streetscapes, sumptuous palaces and epicurean delights, naturally Vienna is an unmissable stop on your Europe adventure.

Now with street art, craft beer brewing, an analogue-only hotel stay, and summer ‘beach bars’, contemporary Vienna continues to flourish as a creative cultural hub.

Kunsthistorisches Museum Vienna

The jewel in Vienna's artistic crown is its Kunsthistorisches Museum Vienna . As well as accumulating vassal lands, the Habsburgs assembled one of Europe's finest collections of art and artefacts. Housed inside a majestic neoclassical building, the highlight of this incredible cache is the Picture Gallery, an encounter with a vast and emotionally powerful collection of works by grand masters, such as Pieter Bruegel the Elder's evocative and 'industrial' Tower of Babel from the 16th century or the bright plenitude of Giuseppe Arcimboldo's Summer.

coffee house Vienna Gastwirtschaft Schilling, Neubau

Vienna’s coffee houses

Great works of art have been created in these 'living rooms' of the Viennese. Patronised by luminaries such as Mahler, Klimt, Freud, Trotsky and Otto Wagner in their day, Vienna's Kaffeehäuser (coffee houses) were added to the Unesco list of Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2011. Many retain their opulent original decor, and often specialise in a particular cake, such as the Sacher Torte, an iced-chocolate cake with apricot jam once favoured by Emperor Franz Josef, at Café Sacher. New-wave coffee houses are putting their own twist on the tradition.

MuseumsQuartier

Have you had enough of culture yet? No? Good, because the MuseumsQuartier (MQ) is a 90,000 sq metre exhibition space encompassing 60 cultural institutions ranging from fine art, music, theatre, and dance to game culture, street art and photography. Highlights include – including the Leopold Museum , MUMOK , Kunsthalle Wien , Architekturzentrum and Zoom but there are multiple micro-museums and creative spaces to explore. It’s also one of the key locations for the annual Wiener Festwochen (Vienna Festival) held over six weeks in May and June.

Vienna street art on a wall of an historic building

The annual Calle Libre street art festival focuses on one guiding theme as celebrated artists respond across curated walls for a week each summer. Founded almost a decade ago by Jakob Kettner, the festival brings together live paintings, street art works, guided tours, film screenings and workshops for urban aesthetics. You’ll get the chance to learn more about Vienna’s burgeoning street art scene, discover works from local and international artists, and find out what issues are shaping and challenging the city today. 

Ringstrasse Tram Tour

For a spin around Vienna's architectural highlights, jump on a tram and travel along the Ringstrasse , one of Europe's most magnificent streets. The circular boulevard of imposing state buildings was carved out of the space once occupied by fortifications protecting Vienna from Ottoman Turk attack in the 16th century. You’ll pass the Monument to the Victims of Fascism at the former Gestapo headquarters site, the neoclassical facade of Parlament, Austria’s parliament, the Athena Fountain, and Äusseres Burgtor (Outer Palace Gate). The Roman gate leads the way to the Imperial Palace, the Hofburg.

Interior Schloss Schonbrunn

Schloss Schönbrunn 

The magnificent rococo former summer palace and gardens of the Habsburgs are a perfect place to experience the pomp, circumstance and gracious legacy of Austria's erstwhile monarchs. A visit to 40 of the palace's lavishly appointed rooms reveals the lifestyle and the eccentricities of Europe's most powerful family. Beyond the Unesco-listed palace, Schloss Schönbrunn Gardens invite a stroll past pseudo-Roman ruins, along bucolic paths winding through leafy woods and a stopover in the gardens' highlight, the Gloriette, with mesmerising views of the palace and city beyond.

Hofburg Palace 

The former wintering ground of the Habsburg monarchs for over 700 years, Hofburg is a living palace today. One of the biggest palace complexes in the world, it now houses a fine collection of museums, is home to the Austrian president, Austria's National Library and public offices. It is also the temporary home of the Austrian Parliament while the main building undergoes renovations expected to be completed in 2024. 

Vienna skyline at sunrise featuring the Donauturm towe

Donauturm tower

The newly renovated 1960s modernist Donauturm tower offers panoramic views across the city and the Danube river. It’s also located in one of the most beautiful and largest parks in the city, the Danube Park making it doubly worth a visit. From the top you’ll see the entire surrounding region of Vienna on a clear day. Who can resist booking a sunset meal at a rotating restaurant at 170m high? This is peak tourist, and we love it. The set-price Viennese three-course meal includes lift tickets.  

Whether it's coffee houses, local dining, or a pub crawl, there are a host of tours on offer to the best places to eat and drink in Vienna. Bi-lingual local tour guides guide visitors to different, seasonally appropriate (Christmas market foodie tour anyone?) locations to show off the best the city has to offer. One popular outfit founded by local couple Melinda and Thomas, Vienna Food Tours covers the variety of cuisines that influenced Viennese food: sampling appetizers, a sausage stand, mains, and of course something sweet to round it off over a whole afternoon. 

Riesenrad Giant Ferris Wheel 

It’s famous among cinephiles as the place Graham Greene sent his fictional character Harry Lime for a slow rotation in the 1949 film The Third Man. The 1897-built Riesenrad , otherwise known as the Viennese Giant Ferris Wheel, rises above the beautiful green open spaces of the Prater in Vienna’s 2nd district. A ride takes you high above the city and the wooded parkland and meadows below. Save some time to explore the Prater by foot or bicycle after you return to ground level.

View of Copa Cagrana by the Neue Donau in the 22th district of Vienna, with bars, restaurants and activities

Schloss Belvedere 

Living up to its Italianesque name 'beautiful view', this 18th-century palace and garden ensemble is deceptively close to Vienna's city centre while still creating a feeling of being worlds apart. Symmetrical, finely sculpted and manicured gardens overlooking Vienna's unfolding skyline connect two exquisite palaces dedicated to a who's who of Austrian art. Gustav Klimt's painting The Kiss is a highlight. The masterpieces on display are complemented by interiors so stately that they're worthy of a visit in their own right.

Stephansdom 

A Gothic reminder of another age, the Stephansdom is Vienna's heart and soul. The awe-inspiring cathedral lords over the city, topped by an intricately tiled roof, with its distinctive row of chevrons and Austrian eagle. Below the cathedral are the Katakomben (catacombs), with their eerie collection of the deceased; inside, a magnificent Gothic stone pulpit presides over the main nave; and rising above it to dizzying heights is the South Tower with its viewing stage offering dazzling panoramas over town.

Copa Cagrana Beach

Just beyond the city centre, nestled by the Donauinsel, lies Copa Cagrana Beach , a stretch of sandy beach bars, pop-up food stalls and a large open-air TV viewing area that locals flock to in the summer months. Only open between June and September Vienna makes the most of the holiday atmosphere with volleyball courts, trampolines and green space beside the water. Nibble on delicate Trześniewski sandwiches (open finger sandwiches) as you look across the Donaukanal, or satiate your summer cravings with a fresh spritzer.

A vineyard with a view of Vienna's cityscape in the background

Vineyard hiking

The hills surrounding Vienna are awash with vineyards and views, ripe for hiking and tippling in equal measure. Held in autumn (typically late September or October), the annual wine hiking day sees over 190 winemakers set up small wooden huts along the popular walking paths above Vienna, where thirsty hikers can stop in to try the fresh wine harvest of the year. Pick up your glass from one of the hiking-day stations at the bottom of the trail, and meander your way from Neustift to Nussdorf, Strebersdorf to Stammersdorf, or the shorter Ottakring to Neuwald route. The ‘hikes’ themselves are quite low impact and allow plenty of time to stop, sip and enjoy the fresh air.

VHS, vinyl and typewriters

Seeking a true digital detox can be challenging, with a constant barrage of tech an unavoidable part of our daily lives. To help you stay offline and relax, 25 Hours hotel has collaborated with Supersense cafe to create the first ‘analogue hotel room’ for your perfectly curated escape from modern life. Replacing wi-fi and wide screens with a typewriter, VHS player and vinyl records, the suite offers a stylish retreat to the simpler technologies of decades gone by. Perfect for a truly unplugged weekend getaway. If you want to explore further, book a bicycle from their friends at Schindelhauer.

Several glasses of different beers and ales.

Craft beer has come of age in Vienna with a number of bars specialising in locally made brews. Just off Mariahilferstrasse, Ammutson Craft Beer Dive 's commitment to fresh tap beer from local microbreweries is a welcome addition to the scene. While stalwart craft beer venues like Beaver Brewing Company continue to provide a hearty mix of delicious food, alongside their expansive and regularly changing craft beer menus. Beer drinkers, on your marks...

Christmas markets 

Vienna's much-loved Christmas market season runs from around mid-November to Christmas Eve. The Christkindlmärkte atmosphere is magical with stalls in streets and squares selling wooden toys, festive decorations and traditional food such as Würstel (sausages) and Glühwein (mulled wine). The centrepiece is the Wiener Weihnachtstraum Christkindlmarkt on Rathausplatz but you'll find Christmas markets across the city including at Schloss Schönbrunn.

Rudolfsheim-Fünfhaus: 15th district

The 15th district is experiencing a rejuvenation thanks to community driven events, interesting stores and markets. Brunch and coffee lovers can get their fill at Landkind , Das Augustin and Turnhalle im Brick 5 , and see Austria’s best barista slinging lattes at GOTA Coffee Experts . Hidden down the district's side alleys is the unique indie art gallery, Improper Walls , and quirky stores such as Metaware , a ‘gift shop for nerds & geeks’.

In the evenings, there’s a wealth of food and drink options to explore in the district, from Das Eduard’s pita burgers on its outdoor terrace, to indie bar ein affee and wine haven Reinwein . Vegetarians can enjoy the secluded delights of restaurant and art gallery Hollerei , a short walk from Meidling Hauptstrasse station.

This article was first published in May 2019, last updated by Tasmin Waby on 29 June 2021.

Free things to do in Vienna Best day trips from Vienna The 7 best things to do in Vienna with kids

This article was first published May 2019 and updated July 2021

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vienna free places to visit

11 Best Things To Do in Vienna

Updated May 8, 2023

Vienna is a city that relishes its past, and it has the attractions to prove it. Whether you're interested in the long-reigning Habsburg family, classical music composed by Vienna's own Mozart, or antiques; this city has enough to keep you

  • All Things To Do

vienna free places to visit

St. Stephen's Cathedral (Stephansdom) St. Stephen's Cathedral (Stephansdom) free

Towering above the streets of the Innere Stadt , this massive cathedral is the true centerpiece of Vienna. St. Stephen's has stood in this very spot since the early 12th century, but little remains of the original aside from the Riesentor (Giant's Gate) and the Heidentuerme (Towers of the Heathens). The Gothic structure standing today was built in the early 1300s and has survived the Turkish siege of 1683.  It was here that mourners came to pay their respects to Amadeus Mozart in 1791. In 1805, Napoleon used St. Stephen's doors to post his farewell edict. And it weathered attacks from both German and Russian armies during World War II. Today, this stunning cathedral remains an active house of worship, a national icon and a top tourist attraction.

After you've toured the main section, head underground to the catacombs where many victims of the Great Plague of Vienna were laid to rest. Move on to the gruft , or vault, where numerous urns contain the remains of members of the Hapsburg royal family. Before you leave, you should climb the 343 steps to the top of the South Tower or use the elevator to reach the lookout terrace at the North Tower – you'll be treated to a spectacular view. Visitors call this one of those "must-visit" attractions in Europe, praising the gorgeous church and its surroundings.

vienna free places to visit

Museum of Fine Arts (Kunsthistorisches Museum) Museum of Fine Arts (Kunsthistorisches Museum)

The works at the Kunsthistorisches Museum , or Museum of Fine Arts, range from ancient Egyptian and Greek objects to masterpieces by numerous European masters, including Titian, Velasquez, Van Dyke and Rubens. In fact, the collection here is so extensive that many people say the walls of the Hofburg Palace look bare in comparison. The building itself, which opened to the public in 1891, impresses travelers as well; its facade features ornate sculptures.

Recent travelers appreciated the wide range of work on display at this museum and note just how large the building is and how much art is held within. A few suggested breaking up the day with a quick cup of coffee at the on-site shop.

vienna free places to visit

Schönbrunn Palace Schönbrunn Palace

Originally constructed in 1696 as a hunting lodge, Sch ö nbrunn Palace later became the official Hapsburg summer residence. Under the supervision of Maria Theresa (the only female Habsburg ruler), Sch ö nbrunn evolved into an expansive paradise with ornate rooms and vast elaborate gardens comparable to King Louis XIV of France's palace at Versailles . A  tour will lead you through apartments belonging to Maria Theresa as well as Emperor Franz Joseph, his wife Elisabeth, and Archduke Franz Karl. Other highlights include the Blue Staircase, the Mirror Room and the Hall of Ceremonies. Also plan to spend at least an hour in the gardens, which are connected by shaded promenades that extend diagonally from the Gloriette, a stunning Roman-style arch overlooking a vast pool. Located within the grounds is Tiergarten , the oldest zoo in the world.

Travelers say the grounds are beautiful, the tour is insightful and the zoo is entertaining for the whole family, but many warn about how crowded this attraction gets. Many suggest visiting first thing in the morning to avoid the congested atmosphere.

vienna free places to visit

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vienna free places to visit

Naschmarkt Naschmarkt free

Every Monday through Saturday, hundreds of vendors flock to this market in the Wieden District (located just south of the Ringstrasse) to sell fruit, meat, dairy products and other local food items. This open-air extravaganza, Naschmarkt, is considered one of the largest of its kind, and it's a great intro into everyday life in Vienna. In addition to shops, you'll find food stalls and small eateries throughout. Recent visitors said you should come hungry to this market and plan to sample a few things from each stand. 

You don't have to pay to peruse, but you'll want to bring some cash in case you see something that whets your appetite. The market is generally open from around 6 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. Monday through Friday and from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturdays. Also, make sure to keep an eye on your belongings – the market is crowded and popular with tourists, so beware of pickpockets.

vienna free places to visit

House of Music (Haus der Musik) House of Music (Haus der Musik)

Vienna has long been a musical epicenter. It was here that renowned composers, such as Mozart, Beethoven, Haydn, Mahler and Strauss lived, composed and performed. So it's hard not to be tempted to stop in a site known as the House of Music ( Haus der Musik ) during your time in the city. This small but fascinating museum showcases the works of Vienna's elite musicians with displays featuring manuscripts and sound bytes. Exhibits also explain the evolution of sound and the mechanics behind our ability to hear. Plus, there's an entire floor dedicated to the Vienna Philharmonic where you can even use a virtual wand to conduct the musicians. (Be careful, though, if you mess up they may ridicule you.) Travelers say if you're a classical music fan (or even a fan of the science of sound), a visit to the House of Music should be a priority.

You'll find the Haus der Musik located in the Innere Stadt just a few blocks southeast of the Hofburg Palace complex. It's open every day from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Admission is 13 euros (about $15) for adults and 6 euros (about $7) for children younger than 12. Discounts are available for students, seniors and groups. For more information, check out the museum's website .

vienna free places to visit

Vienna's Tiergarten Vienna's Tiergarten

It began in 1752 as an exotic menagerie amassed by Franz Stephan, the husband of Maria Theresa (the only female Hapsburg ruler) and the country's Holy Roman Emperor. Today, Tiergarten is the oldest zoo in the world, home to about 750 animal species (around 8,500 animals total) ranging from tigers to lemurs. The zoo hosts daily animal talks and feedings that visitors can watch, with animals like orangutans, elephants, penguins and otters.

Since its founding, Tiergarten has undergone many a renovation to bring it up to par with modern facilities. Travelers say that while the cost of admission is on the pricey side, it's worth it to see the variety of animals and impressive facilities at this zoo.

vienna free places to visit

MuseumsQuartier Wien MuseumsQuartier Wien

Straddling the southwest section of the Ringstrasse, the MuseumsQuartier Wien is an enormous cultural institution comprising numerous top-notch museums. If you're interested in art, head to the Leopold Museum, which houses an impressive collection of Austrian masterpieces dating from the 19th century to the present. Next door, the Museum of Modern Art is home to the national collection of 20th-century works by famed artists like Max Ernst, Rene Magritte, Jackson Pollock and Andy Warhol. Adjacent to the MUMOK, the Kunsthalle Wien showcases an ever-rotating collection of avant-garde exhibits.

If art isn't really your passion, you may benefit more from a visit to the Architekturzentrum (Architecture Center). Or, if you're traveling with children, you might like the ZOOM Kindermuseum's interactive displays on everything from life underwater to life on the big screen. The  Naturhistorisches Museum (Natural History Museum) is also a hit with the younger set.

vienna free places to visit

Vienna State Opera (Staatsoper) Vienna State Opera (Staatsoper)

Since 1869, the Vienna State Opera has been the city's premier venue for the performing arts and a major focal point of Viennese life. Its directorship is one of the most prestigious positions in Austria. The Staatsoper still hosts performances, but you can also tour this magnificent building on a guided tour. You'll find 40-minute tours run every day (times vary depending on the performance schedule) and allow you a behind-the-scenes look at this beloved landmark. Tours come highly recommended by previous visitors.  If you're interested in learning more about the Staatsoper , head over to the Staatsopermuseum , which displays photographs and articles spanning the house's history.

While some visitors say viewing a performance here is worth the pricey admission fee (especially opera lovers who called the experience unforgettable), others note that you can enjoy the performance for free: In April, May, June and September, live opera and ballet performances are screened on the front of the opera building. 

vienna free places to visit

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Highlights of Vienna City Center Walking Tour

Highlights of Vienna City Center Walking Tour

(821 reviews)

from $ 64.47

Vienna: Skip the Line Schönbrunn Palace and Gardens Guided Tour

Vienna: Skip the Line Schönbrunn Palace and Gardens Guided Tour

(746 reviews)

from $ 52.99

vienna free places to visit

Belvedere Palace (Schloss Belvedere) Belvedere Palace (Schloss Belvedere)

If you're can't get your art fix at either the MuseumsQuartier or the Kunsthistorisches Museum , you're sure to find satisfaction at Belvedere. There are actually two palaces here – separated by an ornate 17th-century French-style garden – which some say are the best examples of Baroque architecture in the world. Formerly home to such notable Austrian figures as Prince Eugene of Savoy and Archduke Franz Ferdinand, the buildings now house an impressive array of Austrian art from such renowned artists as Gustav Klimt and Oskar Kokoschka. Travelers love the gardens, ornate buildings and array of paintings on display at this attraction.

Belvedere Palace sits just southeast of the Innere Stadt,  between the Wieden and Landstrasse districts. It is open every day from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. with the Lower Belvedere building offering extended hours on Wednesdays. Admission varies depending on the different buildings you're interested in visiting and special exhibits on display; though, children up to 18 can enter for free at all sites. Guided tours are available and there are a variety of combo ticket packages available as well. For more information, visit the palace's website .

vienna free places to visit

Hofburg Palace Hofburg Palace

Unlike Vienna's other royal residences, Hofburg is like a city within a city. Sitting on the southwestern edge of the Innere Stadt, the 13th-century palace shelters several individual attractions, and if you want the full royal experience, you'll need to spend at least half a day here.

Experienced travelers say it's best to start in the middle of this massive complex and work your way out. The oldest parts surround the Swiss Court, named for the Swiss guards who used to patrol the area. And from there you'll find the Kaiserappartements (Imperial Apartments), more than 2,000 rooms where the royal family lived. Only a dozen or so are open to the public. Take some time to explore the Kaiserappartements ' Sisi Museum, which offers insight into the life and death of Vienna's beloved Empress Elizabeth. Then swing by the Imperial Silver Collection or the butterfly house. (For more information about the Kaiserappartements , click here .)

vienna free places to visit

Museum Judenplatz Museum Judenplatz

Judenplatz earned its name back in the 13th century when it was first designated as the Jewish Ghetto. For centuries, this neighborhood remained the epicenter of Jewish life in Vienna, an identity that still lives among the exhibits found at the Museum Judenplatz. This small yet effective branch of the Vienna Jewish Museum (located a little south of Judenplatz) details the role Viennese Jews played in the development of city life, leading up to when they became the targets of violence during World War II.

Located below the museum, the Mittelalterliche Synagogue (Medieval Synagogue) gives a more authentic look at the history of Jewish life in Vienna. Constructed in the mid-13th century, this synagogue was once one of the largest in the world. It was systematically torn down starting in the 14th century as the surrounding neighborhood fell victim to pogroms. Finish your tour of the area with a visit to the nearby Holocaust Memorial. Many say a visit here is a moving and humbling experience.

vienna free places to visit

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IMAGES

  1. Vienna is one of Europe's most beautifully preserved historic cities

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  2. 15 Best Free Things to Do in Vienna

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  3. 9 Amazing Places to Visit in Vienna [2023]

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  4. Vienna travel guide for first-time visitors

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  5. 9 Amazing Places to Visit in Vienna [2023]

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  6. 2 Days in Vienna

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VIDEO

  1. Vienna, Austria

  2. One day in VIENNA, Austria 🇦🇹

  3. Best place to visit in Vienna #vienna

  4. THINGS TO DO IN VIENNA

  5. 15 Things To Do in Vienna Austria 🇦🇹 #shorts #vienna #austria

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COMMENTS

  1. Free things to do in Vienna

    Catch an outdoor classical music concert. Some of the ticketed summer shows at Vienna's Opera House are live-streamed for free in its outdoor courtyard. Arrive around 90 minutes before curtains-up to secure a seat and enjoy the thrill of catching a show in the open air. The Vienna Philharmonic also hosts free evening concerts in the summer ...

  2. 25 Absolutely Free Things To Do in Vienna (that you can't miss!)

    Free Tour Vienna (Spanish only): www.freetourvienna.eu. Free Walking Tour (Italian only): www.viennaedintorni.com. 2. Enjoy Vienna on two wheels. With its countless bike lanes, Vienna is a very bike-friendly city, which comes in handy not only for locals, but also for tourists.

  3. What can you do in Vienna for free?

    The Summer Night Concert by the Wiener Philharmoniker in the gardens of Schönbrunn. The Fest der Freude concert (always May 8) by the Wiener Symphoniker on Heldenplatz square. The Popfest (late July) and Gürtel Nightwalk (typically late August) events, which offer free concerts where the music is more 2024 than 1824.

  4. 27 Incredible Free Things to Do in Vienna (2024)

    This free outdoor container of art in Vienna's Museum Quarter is a fun place to see rotating exhibits of contemporary art, free of charge. 21. Theseus Temple: best free things to do in Vienna. Image: The Theseus Temple. Lavender Dreamer.

  5. 32 Free Things to Do in Vienna

    Visit the Karlskirche. The Karlskirche, or St. Charles's Church, is an iconic Baroque church that you can visit for free. It is located in the heart of Vienna. The church itself is super impressive. In front of it, there is a big fountain and pool that creates a nice reflection for a stunning photo spot in Vienna.

  6. Best Free Things to Do in Vienna

    Vienna is a city with many attractions that are free to enter. Some of the most popular free attractions in Vienna are the cathedral, city hall, and tour. The Central cemetery and Viennese landmarks are also popular free attractions. The budget-friendly option for visitors to Vienna is to explore the empire Habsburg landmark.

  7. THE 10 BEST Free Things to Do in Vienna

    2023. 1. Historic Center of Vienna. 19,376. Points of Interest & Landmarks • Architectural Buildings. Inner City. By Alberto808. Beautifully kept area; the center of Vienna is a pleasure to just walk around and enjoy the many beautiful sights.

  8. Awesome Free Things To Do In Vienna Austria

    As usual, you can expect fireworks and atmospheric lighting to make things go with a bang. 6. Free films. If you fancy spending a balmy evening al fresco, under clear skies, as strains of Puccini fill the air, get the Rathaus Film Festival in your diary.

  9. The Top 15 Free Things To Do In Vienna

    Prater Park. With about 6 square kilometers of space, Prater is one of Vienna's biggest and most beautiful parks. It is the best place to create your own free walking tour with an 11km trail called Wanderweg 9 that loops around the whole area. You will see several playgrounds, skateboard parks and sports areas scattered throughout the greenspace.

  10. 21 Of The Best Free Things To Do In Vienna, Austria

    13 Interesting Places To See In Podgorica Today. Here Are 7 Remarkable Things To Do In Berat Albania. 7 Free Things To Do In Bangkok. 10 Places To Visit In Gozo Malta For Breathtaking Views. 7 Top Reasons Why You Should Visit Bansko Bulgaria. 10 Picturesque Churches To See In Vienna Austria. How To Make Your Time In Tirana Albania Fun And Memorable

  11. 14 Really Cool Free Things To Do In Vienna, Austria

    While we are on the topic of free things to do in Vienna in terms of gardens, head to the Botanical gardens near the Belvedere Palace. These are run by the university and are free to visit too! 4. Stadtpark And The Johann Strauss Monument. One of the most photographed statues in Vienna is the golden Edmund Hellmer's golden Strauss Monument.

  12. Free Things to Do in Vienna

    You can save money when you visit Vienna with this list of free things to do in Vienna. From the Gardens at Schonbrunn Palace, operas, movies to Donauinselfest (a three-day music festival), and the Christmas markets, there are lots of things to do in Vienna that won't cost you any money. Be sure to print or bookmark this post.

  13. Free Things to Do in Vienna (TOP 10)

    Vienna is not always the most affordable city to visit. Like for example, just lodging and eating some food can add up to a significant amount of money. Museum trips typically cost around €15 - €20 per person, dinners cost around €20-€25 per person and don't get me started on accommodation costs. However, there are some free things ...

  14. Vienna On A Budget: 6 Free Things To Do in Vienna, Austria

    The Wiener Riesenrad and other amusement park rides require tickets (ranging from €1.50 to €5 for most rides; €10 +tax for Ferris wheel), but the park itself is one of the free places to visit in Vienna. Top Tip: Tickets to the Wiener Riesenrad can be purchased in advance on Viator or save money with a Ferris wheel and Zoo combo ticket .

  15. THE 10 BEST Free Things to Do in Vienna

    Highly rated activities with free entry in Vienna: The top things to do for free. See Tripadvisor's 1,211,615 traveler reviews and photos of Vienna free attractions

  16. Top Free Museums in Vienna to Visit on A Budget (+ Galleries and

    The Museum Startgalerie Arthohek is a modern free art gallery, that is run by the Cultural Affairs Department of the City Administration. The MUSA features a special area that showcases works from the gallery's collection but focuses solely on young and upcoming artists. Location: Felderstraße 6-8, 1010.

  17. 17 BEST Places to Visit in Vienna (2024)

    Take a free tour to see parts inside the building; tours include the Festival Hall, Arcade Courtyard, Council Chamber, Stone Halls, Senate Chamber, and Coat of Arms Halls. Treat yourself to a nice meal in the restaurant before continuing your sightseeing in Vienna. #15 - Graben - A great place in Vienna if you love to shop!

  18. THE 10 BEST Free Things to Do in Vienna Region

    It is 5.3 kilometres in length and and easy place to enjoy a stroll, sightseeing or casual tram ride during visits to Vienna. There are hotels, quite a few eateries and retail shops as well. Plenty to do, see and taste along Ringstrasse, which is probably one of the most famous and beautiful boulevards in Europe.

  19. 16 Unforgettable Things to Do in Vienna on Your Visit

    A few companies offer free Vienna walking tours, but we recommend the one run by Prime Tours. ... Time Travel Vienna is one of the top things to see and do in Vienna and offers an engaging and ...

  20. 18 top things to do in Vienna

    Highlights include - including the Leopold Museum, MUMOK, Kunsthalle Wien, Architekturzentrum and Zoom but there are multiple micro-museums and creative spaces to explore. It's also one of the key locations for the annual Wiener Festwochen (Vienna Festival) held over six weeks in May and June. Street art murals line the streets and back ...

  21. 11 Best Things to Do in Vienna

    Ranking of the top 11 things to do in Vienna. Travelers favorites include #1 St. Stephen's Cathedral (Stephansdom), #2 Museum of Fine Arts (Kunsthistorisches Museum) and more.