2-Day Travel Itinerary for Vienna, Austria? - Tips, Routes, Advice

Vienna, Austria’s imperial capital, is a city where history, culture, and elegance converge. Whether you're a first-time visitor or returning to explore more, this 2-day itinerary offers the perfect blend of iconic landmarks, art, cuisine, and local charm. From grand palaces and world-class museums to cozy cafés and vibrant markets, Vienna invites you to dive into its timeless beauty. This guide is designed to help you make the most of 48 hours in the city, combining efficiency with unforgettable experiences. Follow along for tips, routes, and must-see spots that showcase the very best Vienna has to offer.

Day 1: Museums & City Center Exploration

8:00 a.m. – Breakfast at Café Central

Start your day at Café Central, a beautiful and historic café. Enjoy classic Viennese pastries like Apfelstrudel, along with a coffee to fuel up for the day ahead.

9:00 a.m. – Hop-on Hop-off Sightseeing Tour (Red Line)

Begin your sightseeing by hopping on a red line of the City Sightseeing hop-on-hop-off tour. This allows you to see the major landmarks in Vienna, such as the Ringstrasse, Vienna State Opera, and Hofburg Palace, while getting in and out of the bus at your leisure. Make stops to explore key areas, especially museums and cultural sites.

10:00 a.m. – Kunsthistorisches Museum (Museum of Art History)

Explore this world-class museum, which houses impressive collections, including works by Old Masters like Vermeer, Rembrandt, and Titian, as well as an extensive collection of ancient Egyptian, Greek, and Roman artifacts.

12:00 p.m. – St. Stephen’s Cathedral

After visiting the museum, head to Stephansplatz to admire the iconic St. Stephen’s Cathedral (Stephansdom). Take some time to climb the tower (or use the elevator) for stunning views of Vienna’s skyline.

1:00 p.m. – Lunch at Naschmarkt

Hop back on the sightseeing bus and head to Naschmarkt, Vienna's most famous food market. You’ll find a variety of international and local food stalls. Try Austrian delicacies like Wiener Schnitzel or Tafelspitz from one of the restaurants there.

2:30 p.m. – Albertina Museum and Art Gallery

After lunch, visit Albertina, one of Vienna's most important art museums. Explore its collection of works from famous artists like Monet, Picasso, and Dürer, along with its magnificent historical rooms and views over the city.

4:00 p.m. – Hofburg Palace and the Imperial Apartments

Visit the Hofburg Palace, the former imperial residence of the Habsburg dynasty. Explore the Imperial Apartments, the Sisi Museum, and the Imperial Treasury, where you can learn about the history of the Austro-Hungarian Empire and its royal family.

6:00 p.m. – Dinner at Figlmüller

After a day of cultural exploration, head to Figlmüller, an iconic restaurant famous for its Wiener Schnitzel. It’s an authentic spot for a traditional Austrian meal.

8:00 p.m. – Evening Walk around the City Center

After dinner, take a leisurely walk around Graben and Kohlmarkt. These pedestrian streets are lined with elegant shops, cafés, and historic buildings. Don’t forget to stop by the Pestsäule (Plague Column) for a photo opportunity.

9:00 p.m. – Drinks at the Rooftop Bar at Das Loft

End the evening with drinks at Das Loft, the rooftop bar at the SO/ Vienna Hotel. Enjoy stunning views of the city while sipping a cocktail.

Day 2: Schönbrunn Palace and Gardens

8:00 a.m. – Breakfast at Café Sperl

Begin your day with a traditional Viennese breakfast at Café Sperl, a cozy and historic café known for its coffee and pastries.

9:00 a.m. – Schönbrunn Palace Tour

Head to Schönbrunn Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Spend a few hours exploring the Imperial Apartments, the Great Gallery, and the Hall of Mirrors. Don’t miss the Gloriette, where you can get panoramic views of the city.

11:30 a.m. – Explore Schönbrunn Gardens

Wander through the stunning Schönbrunn Gardens. Be sure to visit the Neptune Fountain, the Maze, and the Gloriette to take in the expansive views of the palace and surrounding park.

1:00 p.m. – Lunch at Gasthaus Pöschl

Take a short break for lunch at Gasthaus Pöschl, a traditional Viennese restaurant offering classic dishes like Sauerbraten and Schweinsbraten.

2:30 p.m. – Visit the Schönbrunn Zoo

Head to the Schönbrunn Zoo, one of the oldest zoos in the world. It is home to a wide variety of animals and is especially famous for its successful breeding programs, including the giant pandas.

4:30 p.m. – Schönbrunn Botanical Garden

Take a relaxing stroll through the Schönbrunn Botanical Garden. The garden is beautifully arranged with various thematic areas, including rose gardens, palm houses, and an orchid house.

6:00 p.m. – Kaffee und Kuchen (Coffee and Cake) at Café Gloriette

Enjoy coffee and traditional Austrian cakes at the Café Gloriette, located within the gardens. Take in the peaceful surroundings while sipping your coffee.

7:30 p.m. – Dinner at Restaurant Ofenloch

For a more local dining experience, head to Restaurant Ofenloch, known for its hearty, rustic Austrian dishes. You can enjoy Wiener Schnitzel, Käsekrainer sausages, and other regional specialties.

9:30 p.m. – Night Out at the Prater Park

After dinner, head to Prater Park, where you can take a ride on the famous Giant Ferris Wheel (Riesenrad), which offers great nighttime views of the city. The area is also full of bars and casual spots for a night out.

10:30 p.m. – Drinks at Gigerl Bar

End the night at Gigerl Bar, a laid-back spot with excellent cocktails and a cool vibe, perfect for enjoying Vienna’s nightlife.

Enjoy your trip

Two days in Vienna might seem short, but with this thoughtfully planned itinerary, you'll leave with a deep appreciation for the city’s grandeur and soul. From sipping coffee in historic cafés to wandering through imperial palaces and vibrant gardens, each moment captures a slice of Viennese life. Whether you’re an art enthusiast, a food lover, or simply a curious traveler, Vienna’s blend of tradition and modernity ensures something for everyone. As you take your final stroll through its elegant streets, don’t be surprised if you’re already planning your next visit. Vienna has a way of staying with you long after you leave.