Wondering how to spend two days in Vienna?
With so much to see and do, it can be overwhelming to plan the perfect itinerary for just two days!
I’ve been to Vienna many times over the years and have fallen in love with the city. Now, with the help of my partner and Vienna native, Gregor, I’ve put together this complete guide to the best things to do, see, and eat in Vienna in two days.
And, of course, this includes a carefully crafted itinerary that will help you make the most of your limited time!
So whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this 2 days in Vienna itinerary will help you create unforgettable memories in one of Europe’s most charming cities (and safest places to travel alone).
Keep reading to find out what to see in Vienna in 2 days!
Read more: The Ultimate Europe Solo Female Travel Guide
2 Days in Vienna Itinerary:
Useful info for visiting Vienna in 2 days
Before we dive into the 2 days in Vienna itinerary, there are a few helpful things to know first. These tips will make your time in Vienna as smooth and enjoyable as possible!
2 Days in Vienna Itinerary Overview
- Day 1: Vienna city tour, St. Stephen’s Cathedral, Naschmarkt, Hofburg Palace, Kunsthistorisches or Naturhistorisches Museum, dinner in the city, fine arts concert
- Day 2: Schönbrunn Palace, Prater or Belvedere Palace, dinner in the city, drinks on a rooftop bar
- Best places to stay: The Rosewood Vienna (highest-rated hotel in Vienna), The Leo Grand (best luxury hotel in Vienna), The Guesthouse Vienna (best affordable hotel in Vienna), Pension Lehrerhaus (best budget hotel in Vienna), Vienna Boutique Hostel (best hostel in Vienna)
Alternative locations for staying and dining to customize this 2 days in Vienna itinerary can be found below.
How to Get From and To the Airport of Vienna
Luckily, Vienna’s airport is connected directly to the city, like most major European cities!
Because of this, there are many easy and convenient ways to get from and to the airport of Vienna:
- The City Airport Train (CAT) connects Vienna International Airport with the city center in just 16 minutes. It departs every 30 minutes and stops at Wien Mitte station. From there, you can easily take the U-Bahn (metro) or bus to your final destination.
- S-Bahn Train: The S-Bahn train (S7) connects Vienna Airport with Vienna city center, taking approximately 25 minutes to reach the Wien Mitte station. Trains come more often than the CAT and it’s also cheaper, making it one of the best options to get to Vienna from the airport! (Pro tip: get a Vienna City Card to get unlimited public transportation, including the S-Bahn, during your trip!)
- Vienna Airport Lines Bus: The Vienna Airport Lines Bus operates between Vienna Airport and various locations in Vienna. The bus runs every 30 minutes, 24 hours a day. It takes about 20 to 45 minutes to reach the city center depending on traffic.
- Taxi: Licensed taxis are available outside the airport terminals and offer a convenient, comfortable, and safe way to travel to the city center. While they tend to be more convenient, they are also generally more expensive than the other modes of transportation. As I discuss below in the “How get around in Vienna” section, Uber is not cheaper than taxis in Vienna.
- Car rental: If you prefer to drive yourself, car rental options are available at the airport. This is ideal if you plan to explore outside of Vienna after your two days inside the city and/or want to explore the beautiful, more rural parts of Austria (which I highly recommend!). Wondering where to go after Vienna? Check out my section on that below!
Bring Cash
It’s still relatively common to encounter shops that accept cash only in Vienna.
While the grand majority of places you’ll visit will accept major credit cards (especially touristic attractions), it’s still a good idea to bring about 50 euros worth of cash for this 2 days in Vienna itinerary.
Cash will be especially useful at markets (like the Naschmarkt below). If you love shopping at markets, consider bringing more cash.
Make sure your credit card is accepted
On that note, make sure you bring credit cards that are accepted in Vienna!
While major international credit cards like VISA and MasterCard will almost always be accepted, this isn’t the case with other credit cards like American Express and Discover.
The “European” version of American Express is “Diner’s Club (International),” which is accepted in Austria. So if your Amex card has the Diner’s Club logo on the back, you should be good to go.
To opt on the safe side, however, bring a VISA (most commonly accepted) or MasterCard credit card.
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Be punctual
Austrians place a strong emphasis on punctuality. As such, it’s important to be on time for any meetings, reservations, and tours you’ve scheduled during your visit.
In the words of a certain Vienna native: “Punctuality is just something you should have.” 🙂
Read more: Top 12 solo travel destinations in Europe
Dress on the Nicer Side
Just like Europeans in general, Austrians tend to dress in a way that would more closely be considered “business casual” in the US.
While you don’t need to be in slacks and a shirt all the time, avoiding ripped denim and sticking to more neutral, darker colors will always be in style in Vienna.
Be mindful of your volume
One of the biggest things I’ve noticed after living in Europe for a few years now is that we Americans tend to be really loud when speaking to others, and just don’t realize it.
Obviously, this is a massive generalization, but just keep in mind when visiting Vienna that your normal volume at home might be really loud in Vienna. 🙂
People here really value peace and calm, so please be respectful and keep your volume down. This includes not having a phone call on speakerphone in public places!
Also remember that rowdiness in Vienna (and Austria in general) is generally frowned upon, and residents won’t hesitate to call the police if you are being really loud and disruptive.
Interested in more travel tips I don’t share on the blog? Follow me on Instagram and don’t miss a thing!
Ordering in restaurants
Unlike in the United States (and its associated anxiety-inducing tipping system), waiters in Vienna and Europe, in general, will not constantly be coming up to your table.
If you’ve never been to Europe before, sometimes this way of serving tables may come off as rude or unattentive.
But I promise, it’s not!
Rather, this is out of politeness so that you can enjoy your meal without constantly being interrupted.
So if you need something, don’t be shy about flagging down your waiter.
And finally, to receive your check at the end of your meal, you will need to ask for it.
In Europe, it’s rude to bring a check without it being requested, as this is perceived as trying to rush you through your meal.
Smoking in Austria
It feels counterintuitive at times when Austrians are generally a healthy populace, but the fact remains that smoking is still widely popular here. Therefore, smoking is still allowed (and in fact normalized) in many public places in Vienna.
So, if you’re a non-smoker and cigarette smoke really bothers you, you may want to seek out non-smoking areas when possible.
Public Transportation is excellent
When Gregor and I were chatting about Vienna to make this guide, one of the top things he emphasized to know about Vienna is that the public transportation is excellent.
So especially if you’re only visiting for two days, you don’t need another form of transport.
The well-connected network of trains, trams, and buses in Vienna will be more than enough for you to get around safely and efficiently!
Shop before 8 pm & Sunday
While things continue to change in this regard every year, Austria is still a traditionally Catholic country at its core.
As such, most shops in Vienna close by 7-8 pm. In addition, many stores are closed on Sunday (including the two major supermarket chains, SPAR and BILLA).
So, keep this in mind if you need to get some shopping done while you’re visiting Vienna.
If you’re in a pinch late at night, gas stations will be open and often have some sort of convenience store.
The perfect rainy day activity
Even in the summer, sometimes the weather isn’t so nice in Vienna.
If this happens while you’re visiting and you need a change of plans, the perfect Viennese thing to do is enjoy a coffee at a café.
This is particularly enjoyable outside on a sunny day, so it’s not just for rainy days! But you’ll be busy seeing the sights during this 2 days in Vienna itinerary and may not otherwise have time to sit around for a few hours (unless that’s more your speed – then go for it!).
The best cafés we recommend for a classic Viennese experience during your stay are Café Central (more touristic but still beautiful) and Café Schwarzenberg.
On the other hand, Ulrich offers a more modern, “hipster” take on the traditional Viennese café.
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🤳 Interested in more eSIM options? Read my in-depth review of the best eSIMs for Europe.
Stay safe in Vienna with a few key tips
Keep your belongings safe and protected from pickpockets
As can happen in any major city on earth, pickpockets can and do operate in some busy tourist areas in Vienna.
So, there are a few ways I make sure to keep my belongings safe:
🎒 Use smart bags with slash-proof straps
First, to keep myself safe whether traveling solo or with others, I use a camera backpack and cross-body bag that have slash-proof straps.
In addition, their zippers can be taken apart and looped around an external loop so that a pickpocket can’t open your bag!
I’ve rattled on in other posts about why I love the Peak Design Everyday Backpack and Everyday Sling for traveling in Europe.
Their safety features are just one reason why!
💳 Prevent thieves from stealing your information
Second, did you know that thieves can steal your identity and credit card information with a scanner that you probably wouldn’t even notice?
To prevent this, I always use an RFID-blocking card wallet. Bonus that it helps keep your cards and money organized!
I make sure to always keep at least one credit card and debit card locked in my accommodation. This way, I can still access money quickly if my things get stolen on the street.
When it comes to cash, only carry as much cash on you as you need that day.
🛂 Leave your passport locked up
Third, leave your passport locked in your accommodation when you visit Vienna in 2 days.
Here’s why:
One summer I interned at the U.S. Embassy in Berlin replacing Americans’ lost and stolen passports. Of all 100+ passports I replaced while there, only one got stolen at someone’s hotel.
(Unfortunately, the luggage storage room at their hotel got broken into – this is extremely uncommon.)
None got stolen from someone’s room.
For some reason, a lot of travelers seem to think their hotel room is more likely to catch on fire or get broken into than for them to be pickpocketed in a major European city.
Speaking from experience, this simply isn’t true. Don’t believe this common misconception!
Top Vienna safety Tip:
Get Vienna Travel Insurance
Let’s get something straight: the chance that something goes wrong while traveling to Vienna for two days is relatively low.
However, things can and do go wrong when you travel.
World Nomads offers coverage for more than 150 activities as well as emergency medical, lost luggage, trip cancellation, and more.
I use them every time I travel and have trusted them for over 4 years.
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2 Days in Vienna Itinerary:
DAY ONE Vienna Itinerary
Morning
1. Take a guided tour of Vienna
One of my top recommended activities in any new city is to start with a guided walking tour.
This way you can get acquainted with the city, its vibe, and history, and have context for everything else you see during your trip!
This tour is one of the most highly rated in Vienna and takes you to all of the highlights of the city.
2. St. Stephen’s Cathedral (Stephansdom)
St. Stephen’s Cathedral is a stunning Gothic cathedral located in the heart of Vienna that has become an icon for the city, with over 6 million people visiting each year!
Its architecture and lop-sided towers have an interesting history that you don’t want to miss out on learning about.
So after your guided tour of Vienna, make sure to go inside the cathedral and have a look around! Entry to the cathedral is free.
However, if you’re a history buff, I highly recommend getting an audio guide or a guided cathedral tour for 6 euros.
You can also:
- Visit the Catacombs for 6 euros
- Climb the north tower for 6 euros
- Climb the south tower for 5.50 euros
To make things easy, you can also get an all-inclusive ticket for 20 euros so you’re not paying piecemeal for each of these activities.
At the time of writing, you can only purchase tickets on-site with cash – no online reservations are possible.
So if you’d really like to skip the lines and get away from the crowds, plus see parts of the cathedral not usually open to the public (like a secret rooftop), don’t miss this tour!
Important note: The cathedral chapter asks that all visitors to the cathedral wear clothing that’s appropriate to the “dignity of the church,” and male visitors are asked to remove any headwear. For women, this usually means no low necklines or extremely short shorts or dresses, and a covered midriff.
3. Naschmarkt
After exploring St. Stephen’s Cathedral, next head to Naschmarkt, Vienna’s largest and most popular market.
The Nashmarkt is an absolute must for any food lover, offering a wide variety of food and drink options from traditional Austrian cuisine to international delights.
Take your time wandering through the various stalls, sampling fresh produce, cheeses, and meats along the way.
Then, when you’ve properly worked up an appetite, find some brunch or lunch and soak up the lively atmosphere!
Are you a food market fiend? Then don’t miss this gourmet food tour bringing you to all of the highlights of the Naschmarkt!
Vienna Card oR
Vienna Pass?
If you’re planning to spend 2 days in Vienna with this itinerary, you may want to consider purchasing a Vienna Card or a Vienna Pass. Both of these tourist passes offer discounts and benefits to various attractions and services in the city.
The Vienna Card is a good choice for those who want to explore the city’s public transportation system. The card offers unlimited travel on all modes of public transportation, including buses, trams, and metros.
It also provides discounts on a range of tourist attractions, shops, and restaurants.
The Vienna Card is available for either 24, 48, or 72 hours.
On the other hand, the Vienna Pass offers entry to a large number of Vienna’s top tourist attractions, including museums, palaces, and galleries.
The pass also includes a hop-on-hop-off bus tour, which is a convenient way to see the city’s major sights.
The Vienna Pass is available for either 1, 2, 3, or 6 days.
When deciding between the two, it’s important to consider what your priorities are.
If you plan to do a lot of sightseeing and want to save money on admissions, the Vienna Pass may be the better option.
However, if you plan to rely on public transportation to get around the city and still want discounts on major attractions, the Vienna Card may be the more practical choice.
(If you follow this 2 days in Vienna itinerary, the Vienna Card is the best value.)
Interested in more travel tips I don’t share on the blog? Follow me on Instagram and don’t miss a thing!
Afternoon
4. Hofburg Palace
After filling up on some delicious lunch at the Naschmarkt, visit the Hofburg Palace, the former imperial palace of the Habsburg dynasty.
Inside, you can take a guided tour to learn more about the history and see the beautiful interiors and artifacts. Here, you’ll also find the Sisi Museum, dedicated to the beloved Queen Elisabeth of the Austro-Hungarian Empire.
I was lucky enough to attend a ball at the Hofburg earlier this year. I have to say – this strikingly beautiful building is not to be missed!
5. Kunsthistorisches Museum
After the Hofburg, walk across the street to Maria-Theresien-Platz where both the stunning art (Kunsthistoriches) and natural history (Naturhistorisches) museums of Vienna are located.
Even if you’re not particularly interested in art, the Kunsthistoriches Museum is a mind-bogglingly lavish location you can’t miss while visiting with this 2 days in Vienna itinerary. Easily reserve your ticket online here.
Mirroring on the other side of the square, the Naturhistorisches Museum is equally stunning and has plenty of interesting exhibits for lovers of science and technology, too.
Evening
6. Dinner at Restaurant Meissl & Schadn Wien
Restaurant Meissl & Schadn is a Viennese staple Gregor recommends for affordable traditional Viennese dishes in the heart of the city.
Known for its elegant and cozy atmosphere, the restaurant offers a wide variety of classic Austrian dishes such as Schnitzel, Tafelspitz, and Kaiserschmarrn.
The menu also features vegetarian options and an extensive wine list.
Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner or a meal with friends and family, Meissl & Schadn is a great choice for experiencing authentic Viennese cuisine.
There is no dress code here, but still opt to stay away from wearing items like sweatpants, baseball caps, and ripped denim (a cardinal rule in Vienna).
Looking for a fancier alternative? Jump below to my section on where to eat in Vienna.
7. Enjoy Vienna’s fine arts
If you do anything on this 2 days in Vienna itinerary, don’t miss this!
Home to the likes of Mozart and Beethoven, Vienna is of course world-famous for its classical music and opera scene.
My partner, Gregor, is classically trained in piano (can you imagine getting such training in a place like Vienna? 🙂 ) and was really the one to introduce me to this scene in Vienna and how much there is to enjoy. As a local, it’s one of his favorite aspects of the city!
So cap off the night as the Viennese would with a classical concert or opera. The best and most traditional venues to choose from include:
- Opera at the Vienna State Opera
- Classical music in the Golden Hall (Goldene Saal) of the Musikverein or the Great Hall (Großer Saal) of the Konzerthaus
- Theater at the Volkstheater or Burgtheater
Make sure to book your tickets in advance so you can attend the show of your choice!
2 Days in Vienna Itinerary:
DAY TWO Vienna Itinerary
Morning
1. Schönbrunn Palace
Another must-do on this 2 days in Vienna itinerary is visiting Schönbrunn Palace, the former imperial summer residence of the beloved Sisi (Queen Elisabeth).
This palace is one of Vienna’s most popular attractions, and with good reason!
I highly recommend taking a tour of the lavish palace interiors and strolling through the beautiful gardens.
Entry to the gardens is free, but there are extra activities that charge an entrance fee like the zoo (yes, the gardens are that large!).
You can also get a great view over Vienna if you climb up the little hill in the gardens behind Schönbrunn.
You’ll probably work up an appetite while exploring here, so enjoy some lunch at one of the many cafés surrounding the front of the palace like Schlosscafé Schönbrunn.
PRO TIP: While there is a big, main touristic entrance to Schönbrunn, you can also enter the gardens from side entrances – for free. So if you’d only like to stroll the gardens and admire the view, consider entering this way, which is far less busy than the main entrance.
Afternoon
2. Prater Amuseument Park (summer) or Belvedere Palace (winter)
How you’ll spend the afternoon on day two of this 2 days in Vienna itinerary will depend on the season.
In the summer, the Prater amusement park is open. There, you can enjoy strolling around, taking a ride on the iconic Riesenrad Ferris Wheel, and visiting the Schweitzerhaus traditional beer garden.
Just make sure to book a ticket in advance if you want to ride the Riesenrad – Gregor strongly emphasized this tip for visiting Vienna in two days!
However, the Prater is closed in the winter, so this is the perfect opportunity to check out Belvedere Palace (Schloss Belvedere) instead.
In typical Viennese fashion, you can find this small but palatial building in the city center near the train station. Enjoy a stroll in the gardens and check out the art museum inside featuring Gustav Klimt and other Austrian artists.
Of course, if you’d rather check out Belvedere Palace in the summer anyway because of the art exhibitions or simply because you don’t enjoy amusement parks, then go ahead!
This 2 days in Vienna itinerary is yours to tweak and customize to suit your preferences. 🙂
Read more: Heading to Vienna this summer? Check out my ultimate Europe packing list for summer!
Evening
3. Dinner at Plachutta
To cap off your two days in Vienna, dine at Plachutta, a famous Viennese restaurant known for its traditional dishes. Located in the heart of the city, it’s ideally located after a day of sightseeing.
Locals-only tip: Don’t miss the Tafelspitz and Gulash!
The dress code at Plachutta is business casual, so you’re best to change at your hotel before dining here if you’re not already wearing something nice.
Looking for a fancier or more casual option? Jump below to my section on where to eat in Vienna.
Interested in more travel tips I don’t share on the blog? Follow me on Instagram and don’t miss a thing!
4. Enjoy rooftop drinks at Lamée Rooftop
Enjoy Vienna’s magic on your final evening in Vienna at the Lamée Rooftop bar, which features pretty much the best views you can find in Vienna.
Here, you can enjoy a refreshing cocktail or traditional Austrian wine while looking out over St. Stephen’s cathedral as the sun sets!
With a beach-inspired theme, there’s plenty of outdoor seating here. You can also enjoy smaller plates of regional Viennese cuisine along with your drinks.
Alternative rooftop bar in Vienna: Dachboden Loft at 25 Hours Hotel
2 Days in Vienna Itinerary:
Where to Stay in Vienna for 2 Days
If you’re staying in Vienna for only two days, the best place to stay in Vienna is inside the city center.
In general, you won’t find a well-rated hotel in the city center for less than $150 per night. So, if you’re on a strict budget, you may want to consider staying just outside the city center at one of the budget options mentioned below.
But don’t worry, with options like the U-Bahn and S-Bahn, nothing is ever too far away in Vienna!
Finally, in general, I find that Agoda actually has way better deals than the most popular booking engine, Booking.com. I certainly use Booking.com often, but it’s worth checking out prices on both sites because Agoda often has short-term and secret deals giving you a lower price! That’s why I include links for both for each hotel listed.
So, without further ado, these are some of the highest-rated hotels inside Vienna that we recommend for a two-day stay:
1. Highest-rated overall & best luxury option: Rosewood Vienna – 9.5/10
The highest-rated hotel in Vienna’s inner city also just so happens to be the best luxury hotel in Vienna: The Rosewood Vienna.
This five-star hotel balances the contemporary with the traditional with beautifully designed suites and exclusive views out to St. Peter’s Catholic Church.
You can also enjoy an on-site spa and a la carte breakfast here.
Check prices on Agoda and Booking.com
Read more: Where to stay in Amsterdam
2. Hotel Sacher – 9.4/10
Another five-star hotel rated one of the highest in the heart of Vienna is Hotel Sacher, of the famous Austrian Sacher Torte notoriety.
You can be sure you will get the true, grand Viennese experience in well-appointed, traditional suites here.
There’s also an on-site fitness center, restaurant, and massages available.
Check prices on Agoda and Booking.com
3. Highest-rated affordable option: The Leo Grand – 9.4/10
The Leo Grand comes in a close second to the Rosewood Vienna as one of the highest-rated hotels in the center of Vienna.
Coming in closer to middle-of-the-road budgets, The Leo Grand is a five-star hotel boasting a bar, air-conditioning, a la carte or continental breakfast, and an on-site restaurant.
The Leo Grand is smack-dab in the center of Vienna, so you’ll be close to all the best attractions!
Check prices on Agoda and Booking.com
Ready to book your stay in Vienna? I usually find the best hotel deals in Europe with Agoda.
4. The Guesthouse Vienna – 9.3/10
The Guesthouse Vienna is situated in the heart of Vienna, just a 5-minute walk from St. Stephen’s Cathedral and next to the Albertina Museum.
Here, you can enjoy an indulgent on-site restaurant as well as stunning views of Vienna’s inner city.
This hotel is one of the highest-rated hotels in Vienna’s inner city on both Agoda and Booking.com, with an overall rating of 9.3/10 at the time of writing.
Check prices on Agoda and Booking.com
5. Adagio Vienna City Aparthotel – 8.4/10
Also a more middle-of-the-road accommodation that’s a steal in the city center is Adagio Vienna City Aparthotel.
This 4-star hotel features fully-equipped studio apartments, which are perfect if you’re like me and like to have a kitchen to cook when you travel!
Check prices on Agoda and Booking.com
6. Best Budget Option: Pension Lehrerhaus – 8.9/10
Pension Lehrerhaus is a great budget option for those still wanting to stay close to Vienna’s city center.
It’s located within a 5-minute walk from the Town Hall, the Parliament, and the ‘Ringstrasse’ that outlines the inner city.
It features a common lounge with kitchenware, a microwave, and a coffee vending machine too so you can cook a little to save money.
Check prices on Agoda and Booking.com
7. Austria Trend Hotel Maximilian – 9.2/10
If you’re keen on saving a little money while still enjoying a 4-star hotel experience right next to Schönbrunn Palace, then Austria Trend Hotel Maximilian is the best hotel for you.
This trendy and modern hotel is budget-friendly and puts you close to connections to the inner city as well as interesting dining options.
Check prices on Agoda and Booking.com
8. Best Hostel: Vienna Boutique Hostel – 9.5/10
Vienna Boutique Hostel was created for travelers, by travelers to offer a safe and comfortable experience. They have all of the modern amenities while still preserving the Viennese charm!
I love that each bed at this hostel has a privacy curtain as well as 2 USB ports and dimmable lights.
They offer private rooms, 6-bed mixed dorms, and 4-bed female-only dorms.
Check prices on Hostelworld, Agoda, and Booking.com
9. Wombat’s City Hostel Vienna Naschmarkt – 9.2/10
Wombat’s City Hostel is the best-rated hostel in Vienna behind Vienna Boutique Hostel. They’re ideally located right next to the Naschmarkt, which is perfect for this 2 days in Vienna itinerary!
Travelers on Hostelworld (the go-to hostel booking engine) frequently mention the great ambiance and atmosphere here.
Wombat’s offers private rooms, 8-bed and 4-bed mixed dorms, and 8-bed and 4-bed female-only dorms.
Check prices on Hostelworld, Agoda, and Booking.com
My favorite way to find reliable ratings and book hostels in Europe is through Hostelworld.
2 Days in Vienna Itinerary:
Where to Eat in Vienna in 2 Days
It might surprise you to hear, but Vienna’s restaurant scene is world-renowned and is one of the city’s best-kept secrets!
In total, Vienna has 10 Michelin-star restaurants and over 50 restaurants in the Michelin guide.
For visiting Vienna in 2 days, here are some of the top recommendations from my partner, a Vienna native:
1. Café Diglas Im Schottenstift
With a traditional interior and beautiful outdoor garden, Café Diglas is one of the oldest restaurants in Vienna.
Their mid-range menu offers a variety of traditional Austrian dishes in a cozy, historic atmosphere in the center of the city.
Price range: $$-$$$
2. Zattl Wirtshaus
One of the nicest things to do in Vienna whenever the weather is nice is to sit outside, and Zattl Wirtshaus offers a lovely outdoor terrace in the city center to do just that.
In fact, their beer garden was ranked the best in Austria in 2010!
This tavern-style restaurant offers hearty Austrian dishes and an exclusively-Austrian beer and wine list.
Price range: $$-$$$
You might also like: Check out these top local restaurant recommendations in Copenhagen
3. Gmoa Keller
Especially if you’re attending a concert at the Konzerthaus, Gmoa Keller is ideally located for a finer dining experience in the center of Vienna.
With a cozy ambiance best described as business casual, you’re sure to find a twist on an Austrian classic you’ll enjoy in their cozy establishment surrounded by original wood floors and paneling.
Price range: $$-$$$
Interested in exploring more of Vienna’s food scene? Check out these unique, top-rated food tours in Vienna!
4. Gasthaus Rebhuhn
Gasthaus Rebhuhn is a cozy, wood-paneled restaurant serving affordable contemporary Austrian and central European cuisine. They serve a variety of vegetarian and gluten-free options as well.
Many people these days find that they can’t get a meal here without a reservation, so make sure to do so if their simple, non-fussy menu appeals to you!
Price range: $$-$$$
5. Clementine im Glashaus
Getting to the fancier end of this list, if you’re looking for gourmet dining in a stunning, unique location in Vienna, look no further than Clementine im Glashaus at the Palais Coburg.
Gregor took me for dinner here in our first few months of dating and I have to say, after dining all over the world, I was thoroughly impressed.
The cuisine is refined and modern, all served under greenhouse-style glass windows for walls and ceilings.
And when the weather is nice, you can enjoy dining in their beautiful outdoor garden!
Price range: $$$
6. Steirereck im Stadtpark
And finally, I couldn’t write about the best places to eat in Vienna without mentioning the Michelin 2* restaurant Steirereck im Stadtpark.
This restaurant is world-famous, with two Michelin stars and ranking in the top half of S. Pellegrino’s World’s 50 Best Restaurants list.
With an extremely costly menu, this restaurant isn’t for those on a budget. However, if you can spare the expense, I promise you won’t be disappointed.
Ever had white-gloved waiters serve you a refined, creative five-course meal all inspired by long-forgotten regional ingredients and recipes? No? Then you have to try Steirereck.
Additionally, their glass interior walls open up completely to their terrace when the weather is nice, making the indoors and outdoors melt together seamlessly.
Price range: $$$$
2 Days in Vienna Itinerary:
How to Get Around in Vienna
As I mentioned above, Vienna’s public transportation is really efficient, clean, and safe. It’s the perfect way to get around for this 2 days in Vienna itinerary! 🙂
To navigate Vienna in the easiest way, I recommend plugging your destinations into Google Maps. It will easily tell you which combinations of the following options to take:
Read more: Stay connected to easily navigate on Google Maps with one of the best eSIMs for a trip to Europe!
U-Bahn
Pronounced “oo-bahn,” the U-Bahn is Vienna’s subway system, with five lines that cover most of the city.
The U-Bahn runs from early in the morning until midnight, with most lines running 24 hours a day on weekends.
(Be careful about closing times at night – one night I went out during the week and couldn’t get back to my hotel without a taxi because I didn’t know the U-Bahn would close!)
Tickets can be purchased at vending machines located in each station, and the same ticket can be used on all forms of public transportation.
Make sure to validate your ticket by putting it face-up into the little yellow or orange slot in the small boxes you’ll find at U-Bahn and S-Bahn stations and inside trams and buses.
Avoid getting fined on Vienna’s public transportation system!
⭐️ Vienna’s entire public transport network runs on the honor system, meaning there are no scanning-gate barriers to hop on any trains, trams, or buses.
🤔 You might wonder then why it’s worth buying a ticket at all!
🎫 Just because there are no barriers doesn’t mean there aren’t ticket checks – they can and definitely do happen.
🤑 If you’re found without a validated ticket, you’ll incur a fine of up to $117, which includes a free trip to the nearest police station if you can’t show a valid passport or official ID.
💸 The amount you’ll spend on transport tickets or a Vienna Card for unlimited public transport around the city in 2 days will easily be less than half this amount. Trust me, the risk just isn’t worth it!
🛂 (As a side note, please don’t carry your passport around with you, as you become an easy target for pick-pockets – instead, always lock it up in your hotel and only carry a photocopy with you, along with your home-issued ID like a driver’s license).
S-Bahn
The S-Bahn is Vienna’s commuter rail system, which connects the city with its suburbs.
The S-Bahn is especially useful for traveling to destinations outside of the city center, such as Schönbrunn Palace or the Vienna International Airport.
Tram (Strassenbahn)
The Strassenbahn, or trams, are a popular and convenient way to get around Vienna. With more than 30 tram lines, it’s easy to explore the city’s main sights and attractions.
Trams usually run from early in the morning until midnight, and night trams are available on some lines.
One advantage of taking the tram is that it allows you to see more of the city as you travel. It’s also a great way to get to some of the more off-the-beaten-path areas of Vienna.
To ride the tram, you can use the same ticket as for other public transport, such as the U-Bahn and bus.
You can purchase tickets at ticket vending machines or at any tobacco shop (Tabak-Trafik).
Be sure to validate your ticket before you board the tram or right when you board to avoid any fines!
Bus
Finally, where the U-Bahn, S-Bahn, or trams won’t take you, buses will.
The buses are useful for getting to more out-of-the-way destinations. The tickets used on buses are the same as all other modes of public transportation, and you can buy them at the same vending machines or Tabak-Trafik shops.
Validation rules are the same for buses too – make sure to validate your ticket when you board!
Bike
Vienna is a bike-friendly city, and renting a bike can be a fun and eco-friendly way to explore.
There are several bike rental shops in Vienna, including WienRobil Rad and Pedal Power.
WienMobil Rad offers a public bike-sharing system, where you can rent a bike at one of the many stations around the city and return it at any other station.
The best part is the first hour is free, and if you wait 15 minutes until your next ride, the clock starts over again (making this one of the most affordable ways to get around Vienna besides walking)!
Pedal Power offers a range of rental bikes, from standard city bikes to electric bikes, with prices starting at around €10 per day.
The city also has a network of bike lanes, making it easy and safe to get around on two wheels for this 2 days in Vienna itinerary.
Just be aware that Vienna is quite hilly, so some routes may be more challenging than others!
Walk
Within the city center, walking is a great way to see most attractions.
Vienna is a perfect size – not too big but not too small – so especially in nice weather, enjoy strolling from one place to another on your own two feet!
Uber
You might be wondering: does Uber operate in Vienna?
The answer is yes!
However, while Uber does operate in Vienna, the city has recently cracked down on the ride-sharing app’s popularity. As such, Uber is no longer cheaper than a taxi in Vienna.
Read more: How to get from Salzburg to Hallstatt by train
Taxis in Vienna
Finally, if you’re in a rush or dressed nicely and don’t want to get on public transport, taxis are an easy option to get around Vienna.
However, they’re not the cheapest option. A 15-20 minute ride will cost you about 10 euros.
Additionally, many streets within the Ringstrasse (inner city) aren’t accessible by car, so taxis may not be the most efficient option to get where you’re going.
We use the FreeNow app to easily hail a taxi when we’re dressed up for a nice dinner or want to get home quickly after a night out.
Where to Go After this 2 Days in Vienna Itinerary
1. Salzburg, Austria
After enjoying Vienna with this 2-day Vienna itinerary, I highly recommend you head west to the charming town of Salzburg. Although most well-known for The Sound of Music, Salzburg and the surrounding Salzkammergut region has plenty of culture and nature to offer anyone wanting to delve further into the heart of Austria.
Read more: The Ultimate Salzburg Travel Guide
2. Munich, Germany
Just over the German border from Salzburg in Bavaria, Munich is another excellent option after you visit Vienna. Munich has much the same charm as Salzburg, with a historic city center and lush beer gardens, and is a great jumping-off point for attractions in the Alps like the castle that inspired Disney.
Read more: The Ultimate Munich Solo Female Travel Guide
3. Bratislava, SLovakia
You don’t hear much about Bratislava, the capital of Slovakia, but it’s less than 2 hours away from Vienna by train! It makes the perfect Vienna day trip if you’d like to check a new country or city off your bucket list.
Read more: See which other cities made the list of the top solo travel destinations in Europe to visit after Vienna!
Final Thoughts on 2 Days in Vienna Itinerary
There’s no doubt that Vienna is a world-class capital for culture, history, music, and all-around sophistication.
In my opinion, it’s one of the most underrated European capitals!
So, if you have more than two days to spare, I highly recommend extending your stay in Vienna to three or even four days.
Other highlights and hidden gems to check out with more time in Vienna include the Austrian National Library and Hundertwasser House.
Finally, consider getting some time in the sun and seeing Vienna from a different perspective with a Danube River cruise!
2 Days in Vienna Itinerary:
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Yes, Vienna, Austria is worth visiting! It’s one of the most underrated cities in Europe and is a world-class center for culture, art, history, and music.
In addition, it’s safe and clean and offers a high standard of living. It even won an award for the most livable city in the world in 2022!
Vienna also tops my list of the 7 safest places to travel alone in Europe.
Vienna offers something for visitors year-round, but one of the most enjoyable ways to truly soak up Vienna is by spending time outside. As such, the best time of year to visit Vienna is summertime, from May through September.
However, Vienna also has a lovely Christmas market that’s worth seeing in December.
How many days you need in Vienna depends on a variety of factors, including your budget, if you’re visiting other places before or after Vienna, and overall how much time you have to spare.
If you know the main attractions of Vienna that you’re interested in and have a well put-together itinerary (like this one!), then two days in Vienna should be sufficient to see the highlights.
However, Vienna has so much to offer and it really deserves deeper exploration if you can afford the time!
That’s why, in an ideal world, I would recommend spending at least three to four days in Vienna if you can.
Two days in Vienna is just enough to scratch the surface and see the highlights of Vienna – if you know where to go! That’s where this 2 days in Vienna itinerary comes in handy. 🙂
But of course, if you have more time to spare, you’ll never regret extending your stay to three or four days. There are so many hidden gems in Vienna to discover!
The best way for how to spend two days in Vienna is starting with a guided tour of Vienna, followed by seeing the Kunsthistorisches Museum, Hofburg Palace, St. Stephan’s Cathedral, Schönbrunn Palace, Prater, Belvedere Palace, and one of the concert halls or the State Opera House. That’s why I’ve included all of these locations in the best 2 days in Vienna itinerary above!
You’ll also want to enjoy some of Vienna’s many delicious, world-class restaurants and cafés that I mention in this guide.
2 Days in Vienna Itinerary:
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