Weekend in Vienna - The Ultimate 48-Hour Itinerary

Vienna is a city of imperial elegance, world-class art, and unforgettable food. If you have just a weekend to explore, don’t worry—you can still experience the best of Vienna without feeling rushed. Here’s a well-planned 48-hour itinerary that balances history, culture, and indulgence.

Day 1: Exploring Historic Vienna

Morning: Imperial Beginnings

Breakfast at a Traditional Viennese Café
Start your morning with a classic Viennese breakfast at Café Central or Café Sperl. Enjoy a Melange coffee (Vienna’s take on cappuccino) with a fresh croissant or soft-boiled eggs.

Hofburg Palace & Sisi Museum
After breakfast, head to Hofburg Palace, the former winter residence of the Habsburgs. Visit the Sisi Museum, which offers a glimpse into the life of Austria’s most mysterious empress, and explore the Imperial Apartments.

Austrian National Library
Just next door, step inside the Austrian National Library, one of the most breathtaking libraries in the world, with grand baroque ceilings and endless bookshelves.

Midday: Vienna’s Grandest Landmarks

St. Stephen’s Cathedral
Walk towards St. Stephen’s Cathedral, one of the most iconic landmarks in Vienna. If you’re up for it, climb the South Tower for a panoramic view of the city.

Lunch at Figlmüller
For lunch, stop by Figlmüller, home to Vienna’s most famous Wiener Schnitzel. The portions are huge, so come hungry!

Afternoon: Art & Culture

Albertina Museum or Kunsthistorisches Museum

• Albertina Museum: If you love modern and impressionist art, this is the place to see masterpieces from Picasso, Monet, and Klimt.
• Kunsthistorisches Museum: If you prefer classical and Renaissance art, this museum houses works by Vermeer, Rembrandt, and Bruegel.

Stroll Along the Ringstrasse
After the museum, take a relaxed walk along the Ringstrasse, Vienna’s grand boulevard. This circular road is home to many historic buildings, including the Parliament, City Hall, and the Vienna State Opera.

Evening: A Night of Elegance

Vienna State Opera or Classical Concert
Experience Vienna’s legendary music scene by attending a performance at the Vienna State Opera or catching a classical concert at Karlskirche.

Dinner & Drinks at a Traditional Heuriger
For an authentic Austrian experience, have dinner at a Heuriger (traditional wine tavern) like Mayer am Pfarrplatz. Enjoy local wines and a platter of Austrian specialties in a cozy, candle-lit setting.

Day 2: Palaces, Parks & Local Life

Morning: Imperial Grandeur

Breakfast at Demel or Café Landtmann
Start your second day at Demel, the historic pastry shop, where you can try Apfelstrudel or Sachertorte. If you prefer something heartier, Café Landtmann is a great choice.

Schönbrunn Palace
Head to Schönbrunn Palace, the stunning summer residence of the Habsburgs. Tour the grand Imperial Rooms, stroll through the baroque gardens, and climb up to the Gloriette for a spectacular city view.

Midday: Relax & Indulge

Lunch at Palmenhaus
Dine at Palmenhaus, a beautiful greenhouse-turned-café in Burggarten Park, perfect for a relaxed midday meal.

Walk Through Stadtpark
After lunch, take a leisurely walk through Stadtpark, where you’ll find the famous golden statue of Johann Strauss.

Afternoon: Shopping & Coffee Culture

Shopping on Kärntner Straße & Graben
Spend your afternoon browsing Kärntner Straße and Graben, Vienna’s top shopping streets. Whether you're looking for designer brands, Austrian crafts, or souvenirs, you’ll find it here.

Coffee Break at Café Sacher
Before leaving Vienna, indulge in a slice of the famous Sachertorte at Café Sacher, the original home of this legendary chocolate cake.

Evening: A Farewell to Vienna

Drinks at a Rooftop Bar
End your weekend with a sunset drink at Das Loft, a stylish rooftop bar offering stunning views of the city.

Timeless

With 48 hours in Vienna, you can experience the city’s imperial history, world-class art, vibrant café culture, and elegant nightlife. Whether you're admiring grand palaces, enjoying classic Austrian cuisine, or simply soaking in the atmosphere, Vienna will leave a lasting impression.

What to Pack for Vienna

• Comfortable walking shoes (cobblestone streets can be tough!)
• Smart casual attire (for opera or upscale dining)
• Light jacket or coat (evenings can be chilly, even in summer)

Vienna is a city of timeless charm and sophistication—you’ll want to return again and again!