Vienna, Austria is known worldwide for its beautiful Christmas markets, but it is magical any time of year. The city itself is easy to navigate and offers endless opportunities for history, culture, architecture, cuisine and entertainment. After, enjoying all of the amazing things to do in Salzburg, we went for three full days in The City of Music, even though we could have easily extended our stay to experience even more. Nonetheless, Vienna cast a spell on us and is sure to do the same to you. Planning an adventure to Austria’s capital city can be overwhelming, our guide The Magic of Vienna – What to Do and Where to Stay is here to help.

I wanted to take photos of everything in Vienna! The fountains, the architecture, the landscape – everything is picturesque and ornate. I had to remind myself to slow down and just enjoy the view.

How to Discover the Magic of Vienna:

Discover the History of Vienna & the Hapsburg Dynasty 

There is so much to do in Vienna, it is hard to know where to start. St. Stephen’s Cathedral is centrally located and has towered over the city for more than 700 years. The cathedral has been the site of many moments in Vienna’s history – including Mozart’s wedding in 1782 and is incredibly beautiful. It is free to walk around (but be sure that you aren’t interfering in services and respect the posted tour times) or you can take a guided tour for €5.50/per adult. St. Stephen’s also offers an incredible view of the city – whether you take the elevator to the North Tower or choose to climb the 363 steps of the South Tower – you will have a bird’s eye view of the entire city – all the way to the Danube River. It is remarkable and quite romantic (if that’s what you are going for).

Planning a trip to Austria’s capital city of #Vienna can be overwhelming! But to help, the Bucket List Project wrote a guide of What to Do & Where to Stay. So sit back & discover The Magic of Vienna! #ViennaNow #ViennaGoForIt
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Once you finish at St. Stephen’s it is a short walk to the Imperial Palace and Treasury. The Palace holds a collection of Imperial museums, but the Treasury is not to be missed. Boasting the title “the most important treasury in the world,” it holds what is thought to be the Holy Grail, two imperial crowns and much more.

Also, part of the Imperial Palace Museums is the State Hall of the National Library of Vienna. The library’s ceremonial room is known as the heart of the Austrian National Library and once you step foot inside, you will understand why. More than a library, it is museum of literature and education and one of the most stunning sites you will see in Vienna. It is often tear inducing to its visitors and will leave you with a sense of awe and wonder. It is a must see. Note that it is closed on Mondays October-May and plan accordingly.

Continuing with the Imperial theme, the Imperial Crypt isn’t far from the Palace, located in the Capuchin Church, it has been the burial spot for the Hapsburgs since 1633. Not only is the crypt impressive as the extravagant and ornate resting place of those in the former dynasty, but offers insight into their history and succession.

Moving on from the Imperial museums, The Belvedere is a baroque palace turned world class art museum in the heart of Vienna. Whether you want to tour the palace and museum to see its incredible art exhibits or take a leisurely stroll through the its magnificent gardens and fountains – you can’t go wrong. The palace was built by Prince Eugene of Savoy who was also a successful military commander.

You can learn more Prince Eugene and the history of Austria’s armed forces at the Museum of Military History. The museum is extensive and houses relics and information from all of Austria’s notable military moments, including the car in which the Archduke Franz Ferdinand and his wife were assassinated to begin WWI and 5,000 square meters of exhibit space focused on military aviation. If military history interests you, this museum is so full of information that it could take and entire day to explore. It is impressive.

Pro Tip: If you purchase a Vienna City Card from the Office of Tourism you will receive more than 210 benefits across the city – including a discount on admission to all of the sites listed above, all other Palace museums as well as free public transportation. 

Experience the Music of Mozart and Beethoven

There is a reason that Vienna is known as The City of Music, it was home to some of the most prolific composers of all time – as they say, in Vienna, music is literally in the air – and at every turn! You can’t go far in Vienna without seeing a plaque noting a tidbit about a famous composer or an opportunity to experience a musical performance.

You will constantly see people dressed in costume selling tickets to the Vienna Mozart Orchestra and while their salesman can be a little overwhelming, the orchestra itself is phenomenal. The performance consists of some of Mozart’s most famous works, including operatic pieces. As an added bonus, the singers and musicians wear period regalia. We bought tickets online in advance and had great seats that were reasonably priced. Not surprisingly, there are numerous concert halls in Vienna, our orchestra was performed at Musikverein Vienna, Brahms Hall and it was beautiful.

After you experience the Orchestra, it is only right to pay your respects to those that wrote such masterpieces. The MozartHaus was Mozart’s Vienna home from 1784-1787 and his only residence in the city to survive. It is now a museum and worth a visit. Additionally, a visit to St. Marx Cemetery where Mozart is believed to be buried as well as Vienna Central Cemetery, the resting place to Beethoven, Brahms and Strauss are must sees for any music enthusiast. Both cemeteries are home to incredible history and beautifully kept. Though they are quite a walk from the middle of town, they are easy to reach via public transportation. You can catch the tram in front of the beautiful Vienna State Opera House or take bus line 11.

Find the Magic of Vienna as a Kid Again

Everyone loves an amusement park, but Vienna’s Prater Amusement Park is something special. As one of the oldest amusement parks in the world, it exudes charm in the midst of state of the art rides and experiences. Prater is not to be missed and a ride on the famous Wiener Riesenrad Ferris Wheel offers some of the best views in the city. Not only an amusement park, Prater offers numerous events throughout the year as well. Be sure to check the calendar to see what is happening during your visit!

Drink and Dine

While you are going to get a great meal whether you dine at a sidewalk cafe or a Michelin Restaurant in Vienna, there are a couple stops you need to make.

Sacher Tort is a menu staple across Austria, but to find the original Sacher Tort you’ll want to head to Café Sacher.  Here you will discover the true magic of Vienna and why the Sacher Tort at Cafe Sacher is actually better than the rest. You may have to wait in line for a seat, but you won’t regret it. The café is nestled in the heart of Vienna and not only is their Sacher Tort out of this world, but their coffee and other sweets are tasty as well.

After you’ve satisfied your sweet tooth, head a few blocks away to the Loos American Bar. Built by Austrian architect and pioneer of modern architecture, Adolf Loos in 1908, it is known across the world for its dramatic and surrealist interior, crafted cocktails and rich history. It is a must stop for locals and visitors alike. You won’t regret it.

There are so many things to see & do in Vienna, Austria! But remind yourself to occasionally slow down & just enjoy The Magic of Vienna! #ViennaNow #ViennaGoForIt #DoStepInn
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Where to Stay

Vienna offers countless hostels, hotels and guest houses for the weary traveler, but Do Step Inn is the perfect budget friendly, centrally located option for anyone. Locally and family owned, every property exudes comfort and friendliness and the service is great. Do Step offers two locations with a third coming soon! We were lucky enough to stay at both locations while visiting Vienna.

Do Step Inn – Westbahnhof: Do Step’s main location near Westbahnhof train station and a short walk to the city center, offers both hotel and hostel accommodations at reasonable rates. You can book a private room with private facilities, a shared room (up to 4 people) with shared facilities or a dormitory style room. They have something for everyone. The facility is comfortable, has a kitchen, bar/lounge area, restaurant (for breakfast) and coffee bar with various common areas including a garden, lounge and billiard room.  Free wi-fi is available.

Do Step Inn – Central: Do Step Inn’s newest location in Vienna offers self-check-in and is a 2-minute walk to the Central Train Station and city center. You can’t go wrong with their private dormitory beds that can be locked completely and have a private plug and reading lamp. It is like sleeping in a train bunk, but without the motion sickness! This offers each guest privacy if they want it and the opportunity to make new friends if desired. Free wi-fi is available and the hostel offers a kitchen and common area for the comfort and convenience of each guest.

Don’t forget to Pin The Magic of Vienna to your favorite Bucket List Travel Board!

Disclaimer: The Bucket List Project was a guest of the Vienna Tourism & Do Step Inn. With that said, All opinions in “The Magic of Vienna – What to Do and Where to Stay” are our own. Also, this post may contain affiliate links. Using the links doesn’t cost you any extra, and it helps keep the site free, fun, and community supported! Eric & Darcee will never recommend a product that we don’t genuinely believe in, actually use ourselves, have researched, and trust. Please see the disclosure policy for more information.

About Our Guest Poster:

Darcee Snider is a Wyoming native, who appreciates the work ethic and strong values that growing up in the Cowboy State afforded her.  New Orleans has been a part of Darcee for a long time and she is excited to now be a part of New Orleans. She believes there is truly nowhere else like the Big Easy and the experiences it affords its citizens; she can’t wait to share them with the family and friends that are sure to visit.  Passion for literature, food, history, adventure and music are reasons why living in New Orleans is such an important part of Darcee’s story. She writes each chapter by enjoying the wonders of the Carousel Bar, exploring the WWII Museum, walking the streets of Uptown, navigating the hidden gems of the French Quarter and eating a Po-Boy at Mahony’s.

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Salzburg, Austria is often a top destination on most people’s bucket list! As the 4th largest city in Austria, Salzburg was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997. When you visit, it is easy to understand why as you seem to get lost in this magical city. Whether it’s exploring the birthplace of Mozart or seeing where Maria of Sound of Music fame had her adventures, you will find a plethora of things to do in Salzburg.

From Mozart to Maria Von Trapp, there are so many things to do in Salzburg that it is easy to see why it is a bucket list destination! #VisitSalzburg #SalzburgAustria
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Explore Hohensalzburg Fortress

Dating from the 11th century, Hohensalzburg Fortress should definitely be added to your the things to do in Salzburg. As you take a guided tour around the structure, you learn about the storied city that was built around this “Salt Fortress.” Some of the highlights of the Hohensalzburg Fortress are the torture chamber and the views from the look out tower.

You can always take the steep walk up to Hohensalzburg Fortress but consider taking the Funicular. This cable car, built around 1892, is the oldest funicular in Austria. It is a fun ride as you ascend you to the top of the fortress in style!

Hot Tip: Snag yourself a Salzburg Card! Not only do you get admission into Hohensalburg Fortress, but you also get ascent and descent by Fortress funicular & guided tour all for FREE.

See where Mozart was Born and Lived

When visiting Salzburg, it is easy to find plenty of things to do that are inspired by the city’s favorite son. Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart was born in Salzburg January 27, 1756. There are two different museums devoted to the musical prodigy.

1. Mozart’s Geburtshaus – This museum was the birthplace of Mozart. It houses many documents, portraits, and other Wolfgang memorabilia from his early life. One of the highlights is the second floor that houses his clavichord on which he composed The Magic Flute.
2. Mozart’s Wohnhaus – This museum was the former house of the Mozart family after Mozart turned 17. This museum showcases more about Wolfgang and his entire family. It presents more about everyday life of the family in Salzburg in the late 1700’s.
3. Mozartplatz – In 1842, Ludwig Schwanthaler erected a memorial to Mozart in the heart of Salzburg’s old town. The statue was presented to Mozart’s two sons at the opening of the memorial. Unfortunately, their mother, Constanze had died 6 months prior in Mozartplatz 8 overlooking the square.

Hot Tip: Snag yourself a Salzburg Card! You get admission into the Wohnhaus & the Geburtshaus for FREE!

Walk The Alter Markt (Old Market)

The Alter Markt also known as the Old Marketplace was once used as a weekly market and festival gatherings in Salzburg. With the St. Florian Fountain in the center, people would come for the many markets until the end of the 19th century when the markets moved to present-day University Square. However, there are still great sights to see in the Alter Markt.

1. St. Florian Fountain – Built in 1488, this beautiful octagonal fountain showcases statue of St. Florian von Lorch
2. The Smallest House in Salzburg – House No. 10A, boasts to be the smallest house in all of Salzburg. Located next to Tomaselli Coffeehouse, this tiny home built in the mid 1800’s measures a whopping 1.42 meters wide or 4.66 feet!
3. The Stadtverein Meteorological Pillar – Often missed is an amazing weather station known as the Stadtverein. This magnificent pillar was erected in 1888 and contains a thermometer, barometer, and hygrometer. It’s now the most popular geocache in Salzburg and the second most popular in all of Austria.

“Do-Re-Mi” at Mirabelli Gardens

The Mirabelli Gardens is one of the top things to do in Salzburg. Perhaps this is due to the film Sound of Music. The Gardens are the site where Maria and the children sang “Do-Re-Mi” while dancing around the horse fountain. In the middle of Mirabelli Gardens you will find Schloss Mirabelli (Mirabelli Palace). Now this former palace houses government offices.

Take a Sound of Music Tour

For those who love the Sound of Music, the Original Sound of Music tour from Panorama Tours is a must for your list of things to do in Salzburg. These 4 hour tours take you around Salzburg and into the mountains so that you can see the many locations used in the filming of the movie. You will get to see sites like the Nonnberg Abbey, the famous Gazebo, and the Mondsee Cathedral from the wedding scene among others.

Taking a Sound of Music tour is one of the things to do in Salzburg that is definitely on my bucket list! #VisitSalzburg #SoundofMusic #VisitAustria
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Explore the Beauty of the Churches

There is no shortage of churches or cathedrals in Salzburg, thus solidifying their title of “Rome of the North.”  Make sure to take the time to explore these amazing treasures and the beautiful art within them. Some of the churches that should be added to your things to do in Salzburg are:

1. Dom Salzburg – The Dom or Cathedral showcases beautiful Baroque architecture. Within you will find highlights like the relics of Salzburg’s two patron saints, Rupert and Virgil and the baptismal font that was used baptized Mozart
2. St. Peter’s Monastery & Graveyard – Though this church offers beautiful sights within its walls, make sure you walk the graveyard aside the church. Along the cliff side are catacombs where you can even find the likes of Mozart’s sister Nannerl and Michael Haydn.
3. Franziskanerkirche – The Franciscan Church is unique in that it offers more of a Romanesque style. When entering look for the “Hand of Asylum” at the lower right of the entrance door. It is said that, “Whosoever might touch it was granted admission to the church, regardless of their innocence or guilt.”

Discover the Secrets of Schloss Hellbrunn

Schloss Helbrunn (Helbrunn Palace), located in the south of Salzburg, is a beautiful spot that should definitely be added to your list of things to do in Salzburg. The palace grounds though are the major highlight of this area. Beware, you may get wet walking the manicured gardens. This is due to the famous “Trick Fountains” spewing water from hidden jets throughout the property.

Also, behind the palace walls is Hellbrunn Park. This park offers amazing flowers, ponds, and areas for children to play. Hidden in the park, is the gazebo from Sound of Music, where Liesl and Franz sing “Sixteen Going on Seventeen” to each other.

Hot Tip: Snag yourself a Salzburg Card to get admission into the Palace, park and orangery all for FREE!

Eat Lots of Mozartkugel

If you love chocolate like Eric loves chocolate, Salzburg will be heaven for you! Throughout the city you will find many confectioneries selling a bounty of different chocolate treats. Paul Fürst originally created the mozartkugel in 1890. It is a bonbon made of marzipan, nougat and dark chocolate. You can find his original recipe through the city at the different Café Konditorei Fürst shops or try the ones at Josef Holzermayr in the Alter Markt.

Drink in the beer capital of Austria

With ten breweries in and around the city, you will definitely have your pick of fine Austrian beers to enjoy. However, without a doubt you should make time to explore Stiegl and Augustiner Bräu Kloster Mülln.

1. Stiegl – Started in 1492, this family owned brewery produces the most popular beer in all of Austria. When visiting the Stiegl Brewery enjoy a draft in one of their bars or take a tour to learn more about the history of brewing and how beer is produced. Make sure you bring your Salzburg Card for FREE Admission!
2. Augustiner Bräu Kloster Mülln – Founded by the Augustinian monks in 1621, Augustiner Brau continues to be brewed according to a traditional recipe by hand in compliance of purity laws. Definitely stop by to enjoy a great brew and food in their Bräustüberl within the monastery.

Book Your Stay in Salzburg Today

Have you ever been to Salzburg, Austria? Which of the Things to do in Salzburg is your favorite? Have we left out other things to do in Salzburg that you would recommend? Let us know in the comments below!

Don’t forget to Pin Things to do in Salzburg to your Bucket List Board!

Disclaimer: The Bucket List Project was a guest of the Tourism Board of Salzburg. With that said, All opinions in “Things to do in Salzburg” are our own. Also, “Things to do in Salzburg” contains affiliate links. Using the links doesn’t cost you any extra, and it helps keep The Bucket List Project Blog free, fun, and community supported! We will never recommend a product we don’t genuinely believe in and trust. Please see the disclosure policy for more information.

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