Vienna Old Town Walking Tour (Self Guided), Vienna

Stephansplatz stands as a central square in Vienna, situated at its geographical heart. This square takes its name from the Stephansdom, Vienna's primary cathedral and one of the world's tallest churches, which stands as its most prominent landmark. Before the 20th century, a line of houses separated Stephansplatz from Stock-im-Eisen-Platz. However, with the demolition of these structures, the name Stephansplatz came to encompass the broader area that includes both squares.

To the west and south, we find the upscale shopping streets known as der Graben, which translates to "the Ditch," and Kärntner Straße, with "Kärnten" being the German word for Carinthia. Opposite the Stephansdom lies the Haas-Haus, an architecturally striking modern building designed by Hans Hollein. Initially, public sentiment expressed skepticism about the juxtaposition of a medieval cathedral and a glass-and-steel structure. Nevertheless, it is now regarded as an exemplar of how old and contemporary architecture can coexist harmoniously.

Why You Should Visit:
While this might not be the best location for a gourmet meal, sitting in one of the local cafes does provide for world-class people watching in a prime historic location. With the Stephansdom dominating the scene, you can't go wrong.

Tip:
While in Stephansplatz, walk around the side of the Stephansdom to see a miniature thereof. It's quite fun to see it tiny!

Out of total 11 of Mozart's abodes in Vienna, Mozarthaus at Domgasse 5 is the only one that still exists – restored in 2006 to commemorate his 250th anniversary – and is where the composer reportedly spent his happiest years. Perhaps this explains the significant number of compositions Mozart created while here, including the exquisite Haydn-dedicated quartets, a handful of piano concertos and "The Marriage of Figaro" and "Don Giovanni" operas. From this point on it was all downhill for Mozart, who then moved to the suburbs due to financial difficulties.

Unlike some other famous house-museums in Vienna, this one has none of the original furnishings to see; instead, it focuses on the composer's genius and allows visitors to imagine how the spacious, elegant apartment might have looked. Concerts are regularly staged here, along with some activities for children.

It might be a good idea to take the lift to the 3rd floor and start your way from there downward, exploring Mozart's life as a child prodigy touring all across 18th-century Europe until finally moving from Salzburg to Vienna. His vices – namely: womanizing, gambling and ability to waste excessive amounts of money – lend a spicy edge. The 2nd floor deals with different versions of his operatic works (some played in sync), while the 1st floor focuses on the years that Mozart lived at this exact address.

Why You Should Visit:
To explore the life and work of the musical genius in a unique setting in the heart of Vienna. Nowhere else did Mozart compose more music. Visitors can see not only the historical apartment but also an extensive presentation of major works by Mozart and of the times in which he lived.

Tip:
Save on the entrance fee by combining your ticket with either Haus der Musik or Dom Museum Wien.

Opening Hours:
Daily: 10am–7pm; last admission: 6:30pm

Placing a modern style edifice directly opposite the Gothic Stephansdom (St. Stephen's Cathedral) was a difficult task with which the city entrusted one of Austria's leading Postmodernist architects, Hans Hollein, author of several uncompromising jewelry stores along der Graben and Kohlmarkt streets, each of which is a minor masterpiece in its own right. The result was the iconic 1990 Haas Haus, a shining, partly mirrored structure of glass, steel and blue-green marble that curves elegantly into the street, successfully blending into the colors, shapes, and grandeur of downtown Vienna.

The building looks pleasingly asymmetrical, replete with decorative elements, such as lopsided cubes of marble attached to the facade, a protruding structure high up resembling a diving board, and a Japanese-style bridge inside. The architecture proved an intelligent alternative to the demands of Historicism on the one hand and aggressive modernism on the other, presenting a futuristic, respectful challenge to the nearby Cathedral's soaring spires, reflected in the mirrored facade. Along with the office spaces, the Haas Haus atrium accommodates cafes, shops, a restaurant, and the upmarket DO & CO Hotel.

Tip:
Take a ride to the top of the building to check out the coffee house, and enjoy the view of the old Cathedral with a nice cup of coffee in hand.
Alternatively, visit the HAAS & HAAS TEAHOUSE (Mon-Sat: 8am–8pm; Sun/Holidays: 9am–6pm) located just outside the Cathedral.

Kärntner Straße (Carinthian Street) serves as Vienna's primary shopping hub and has a rich history dating back to Roman times. Originally named Strata Carinthianorum, with its earliest recorded mention dating back to 1257, this street used to connect the city center to the city wall. Although most of the historic buildings from that era were lost during World War II, a few have managed to survive.

Today, Kärntner Straße stretches from Stephansplatz to Karlsplatz and boasts a plethora of charming old buildings, traditional shops, and flagship stores of well-known international luxury brands. Some of these stores are tucked away in the adjacent side streets. Along the way, the street is adorned with historical treasures, including the Winter Palace of Prince Eugene and Neuermarkt. Amidst the modern retail outlets that surround it, the Maltese Church stands as a striking anachronism. Finally, at the end of Kärntner Straße, one encounters the majestic Wiener Staatsoper, also known as the Vienna State Opera House.

In 1974, Kärntner Straße was transformed into a fully pedestrianized area, much to the delight of both local residents and tourists who frequent the street for shopping, leisurely strolls, and overall enjoyment.

Why You Should Visit:
Great for shopping, people-watching, and admiring Vienna's baroque architecture.

Tip:
Can get pretty crowded, especially during peak tourist season.

If you're determined to treat yourself to the best chocolate cake in Vienna, if not anywhere, consider Sacher Café as a safe bet. Renowned for their world-famous cake, known as the Original Sacher-Torte, created by chef Franz Sacher for a Hapsburg royal party in 1832, this cafe has been in place since 1876 opened, along with the Sacher Hotel, by Sacher’s son Ed.

After Ed's death 16 years later, his wife Anna took over the business and attained global recognition, both for the hotel and the household cake brand. As of 1934, the Sacher Hotel and Café have been run by the Gürtler family, over which period the cafe has seen among its clientele the likes of Gandhi, Queen Elizabeth II and John F Kennedy. A visit to Sacher is truly a must while in Vienna; even on a tight budget – a mere €8 can get you a really good coffee and an excellent slice of cake.

Tip:
Inside the Sacher Hotel, there are three different colored fancy salons for dining, in addition to the main cafe, plus the 2-story Eck which views over the Opera House. If the cafe is overcrowded, consider getting your Sacher cake at the neighboring Sacher Stube Café which is run by the same family. If you are not sure which coffee pairs best with the cake, go for the traditional combination of Vienna's staple hot black coffee with foamed milk and whipped cream.

What better place to visit as an art lover while in Vienna? Located in the largest of the Habsburg dynasty's residential palaces, the Albertina is home to the largest and most valuable graphical collection in the world. You can look forward to priceless prints, over 65,000 water-colors and drawings, some 70,000 photographs, and pieces from all-over-the-world recognized artists, including the Old Masters: Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, Raphael, Rembrandt, and others.

There are many expositions to go through, but highlights include the Batliner Collection – an extraordinary display of modernist art, where you can admire Impressionist pieces from Monet, Degas, Cézanne or Picasso, and go through other artistic movements such as Fauvism, Brücke, Cubism or Surrealism – a very good counterpoint to the Italian/Flemish masterpieces of the Kunsthistorisches Museum. Besides, if you are a big fan of Klimt and Schiele, then this is the perfect gallery for you.

Renovation has restored a number of features of the Albertina to their former glory, including the façades and the wide open central courtyard. The excellent DO & CO restaurant serves coffee, desserts and light meals while offering splendid vistas of the historical center, and the Burggarten is the perfect place to take a break. On your way to the exit, there is also a good-sized gift shop with books relevant to the artwork and artists on display, as well as souvenirs relevant to Vienna and Austria.

Why You Should Visit:
Beautiful building with a fantastic selection of artworks and art styles. Easy to get in with an online ticket (no waiting time).
The open balcony area on the top floor is an excellent place for picture taking, as it faces many of the city's historical buildings.

Tip:
Make sure you have at least 2.5 hours on your hands to check everything.
The audio guide is for all the exhibitions, so it is worth spending some extra for it.

Opening Hours:
Sat-Tue, Thu: 10am–6pm; Wed, Fri: 10am–9pm

The Imperial Crypt, also known as the Capuchin Crypt, is an underground burial chamber situated beneath the Capuchin Church and monastery in Neuer Markt square, within Vienna's Innere Stadt district, near the Hofburg Palace. This crypt was established in the year 1618 and formally consecrated in 1632.

The concept for a Capuchin cloister and burial crypt in the vicinity of the Hofburg castle was initiated by Anna of Tyrol, the spouse of Emperor Matthias. She allocated funds for its construction through her last will and testament on November 10, 1617, and tragically passed away just a year later. Subsequently, her husband also passed away a year after her demise.

From the year 1633 onward, the Imperial Crypt has served as the primary burial site for members of the House of Habsburg. It houses the remains of 145 Habsburg royals, along with urns containing the hearts or cremated remains of four others, including 12 emperors and 18 empresses. The crypt contains 107 visible metal sarcophagi and five heart urns, showcasing a diverse range of styles from simple and austere to ornate rococo designs.

Why You Should Visit:
Imperial Crypt tells a fascinating story of the Habsburg dynasty, one of the oldest and most significant Imperial families on the European continent, and, as such, is well worth a visit.

The Spanish Riding School, also known as Spanische Reitschule, located in Vienna, is renowned worldwide for its longstanding tradition of preserving and practicing classical equestrian skills for over four and a half centuries. The school, likely founded by the Habsburgs in 1572, aimed to promote advanced horsemanship inspired by Spanish techniques. It's located at the original site, Emperor Maximilian's former residence, largely unchanged since 1729.

One of the school's most notable features is its association with Lipizzaner horses. These majestic animals are possibly the only horses globally that reside within an emperor's palace. The school primarily focuses on formal dressage training and imparts knowledge in the military tactics for which the Lipizzaners have been renowned since the time of Napoleon. Their performances continue to captivate audiences with their timeless charm.

The Spanish Riding School offers 70 to 90-minute public demonstrations in the Winter Riding School, a lavish structure from 1729. These performances, featuring exceptional horsemanship and music, have remained unchanged for decades and still captivate audiences. The Lipizzaner stallions, named after the Lipizza stud farm near Trieste, Slovenia, were created by crossbreeding Arab, Berber, and Spanish horses known for elegance and endurance. They start intricate step training at age three.

The interior of the school exudes elegance, featuring 46 columns, intricate plasterwork, chandeliers, and a coffered ceiling. The royal box and galleries for spectators grace the head of the arena. As riders make their entrance into the arena, it is customary for them to tip their hats in a gesture of respect to the portrait of Karl VI. The school courtyard is adorned with an equestrian statue of another emperor, Josef II.

Why You Should Visit:
If you're a horse lover, watching these incredible creatures is a must when in Vienna. But even you are not fond of horse shows, a guided tour (English/German) through the stabling and the riding arena with background information & details about the complex history and breeding system is worth a visit anytime.

Tip:
If you like horses, it is great to see them train in the morning.
If you want to see them jump, go for the actual show. Make sure to book tickets online in advance to skip the long queues.
If you drop into the (not too expensive) on-site cafe for a coffee, drink or snack, you can go out to the terrace, adjacent to which is a wooden enclosure where you can see the horses and their riders practice before the show - and that actually won't cost you anything.

Opening Hours:
Tuesday - Sunday: 9am-4pm (Jan-Feb); Monday - Sunday: 9am-4pm (Mar-Dec). Fridays, in case of an evening show: 9am-7pm.

Michaelplatz is a square in front of The Hofburg Imperial Palace. As you enter, you can't help noticing the impressive Neo-Baroque Michaelertor (Michael’s Gate) leading through the Michaelertrakt to the Hofburg’s inner courtyard. On both sides of the doorway are 19th-century fountains, created by Rudolf Weyer.

Opposite the gate is the grand Michaelerkirche (St Michael's church), formerly the parish church of the imperial court and one of the oldest Baroque churches in the city which lends its name to the square itself. The earliest parts of the church date back to the 13th century; according to legend, the Michaelerkirche was built in 1221, yet its present form originated in 1792. The porch is topped by Baroque sculptures depicting the Fall of the Angels. Inside are Renaissance and 14th-century frescoes, and a vividly carved, gilded organ (1714) by Johann David Sieber, the largest in Vienna, once played by Joseph Haydn. Off the north choir is the crypt entrance. In the 17th and 18th centuries, parishioners were often buried beneath their church. Well preserved bodies clothed in their burial finery can still be viewed in open coffins.

At the center of the square there is a viewing spot for an excavation of a Roman encampment. There are also some old Medieval foundation walls to be seen, plus the remnants of the old Burg Theater.

In contrast to this, overlooking Michaelerplatz, opposite the Michaelertor, is one of the most modern buildings in Vienna, called the Looshaus. Designed by Adolf Loos, it is now famous, although, back in the day, it was considered an eye sore for its rather simple, unadorned design. So much so, in fact, that when completed in 1912, the building caused so much outrage on the part of the Emperor Franz Joseph who declared that he would never use the Michaelertor ever again. The source of his indignation was the building’s starkly functional upper facade contrasting dramatically with the nearby fine ornate Baroque architecture. Today, the Looshaus is a working bank, but visitors are allowed into the lobby to view the elegant interior, which is richly clad in polished timber, green marble and mirrors.

Sitting just across from the Looshaus is the Palais Herberstin. Built in 1896, it replaced an older building that used to be a popular meeting spot for young writers and artisans. The old cafe, called Griensteidl, has been rebuilt in the new structure, though much of its regular crowd have moved to Café Central in Palace Ferstel.

Why You Should Visit:
Main entrance to the historic center of Vienna, there's just so much to see and enjoy – grand architecture or just a cup of coffee.

Tip:
Doing one of the horse-drawn carriage tours is highly recommended, a great way to see the central part of Vienna and worth the money.

Situated at the heart of Vienna, the Hofburg has played a central role in Austrian history for over seven centuries. Prior to the dissolution of the monarchy in 1918, it served as the primary residence for the Habsburg Empire and the winter home for the imperial family. Initially constructed as a modest city fortress in 1279, it evolved over the years through successive expansions by various Austrian rulers, including emperors of the Holy Roman Empire starting in 1452 and emperors of Austria from 1806. It transformed into an opulent palace complex, becoming a key hub in European history.

Numerous architects contributed to the Hofburg's diverse architectural styles, ranging from Gothic to late 19th-century Historicism. In the 18th century, it underwent significant Baroque enhancements, including the addition of notable structures such as residences like Amalienburg and Albertina, the Imperial Chapel (Hofkapelle or Burgkapelle), the Treasury (Schatzkammer), the Burgtheater, the Spanish Riding School (Hofreitschule), and the Imperial Mews (Stallburg and Hofstallungen). Between 1723 and 1735, the Imperial Library (Hofbibliothek), now known as the Austrian National Library, was constructed to house the valuable book collection owned by the Habsburgs. The Great Hall, with its harmonious Baroque interior, ranks as one of the world's most beautiful of its kind.

Today, the Kaiserappartements and Albertina, the former state apartments and art collections, attract visitors with their extensive imperial treasures and world-class art collections. In one section of the Hofburg's underground, there used to be an imperial wine cellar spread across three floors. The remaining wine inventory was auctioned off after the monarchy's dissolution, and the space was repurposed as a storage area for plaster models of fountains and monuments.

The vast Hofburg complex covers an area of over 240,000 square meters, comprising 18 wings, 19 courtyards, and 2,600 rooms, where nearly 5,000 individuals currently work and reside. The rooms that once witnessed Emperor Joseph II's formulation of reformist policies, hosted the Congress of Vienna, and served as Emperor Franz Joseph's audience chambers are now the official residence and workplace of the Federal President of the Republic of Austria, located in the Leopoldine Wing since 1946. Additionally, the palace serves as the permanent headquarters for the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE).

Why You Should Visit:
To gain insight into the world of Austria's illustrious emperors furnished and decorated to the highest standards of historical authenticity.

Tip:
There is also a chapel built inside the complex, which is open to the public. If you come for Sunday Mass, you will be able to listen to the famous Vienna Boys Choir performing here regularly.

Opening Hours:
Monday - Sunday: 8:00 am - 6:00 pm.

Demel is a famous pastry shop and chocolaterie in Vienna, established in 1786. The company bears the title of a Purveyor to the Imperial and Royal Court since 1874.

Demel was previously known as Hofzuckerbäckerei pastry shop, founded by Ludwig Dehne, a confectioner from Württemberg. Upon his early death in 1799, the business was continued by his widow for their minor son August Dehne. The latter inherited the company in 1832 and successfully managed the business, however, as his son pursued an academic career, he sold the company to his journeyman, Christoph Demel, in 1857.

Renamed Ch. Demel's Söhne in 1867, Christoph Demel's sons Joseph and Karl continued the business and were granted the title of a purveyor to the Habsburg court by Emperor Franz Joseph I in 1874. In the heyday of the Austro-Hungarian monarchy, notable customers of Demel included Empress Elisabeth (Sisi), Princess Pauline von Metternich, and actress Katharina Schratt. During the Austrian Anschluss to Nazi Germany in 1938–45, the Vienna Gauleiter Baldur von Schirach and his wife Henriette were also regulars here.

If you want to travel back to the imperial times and enjoy an authentic Austrian dessert, this is a great place to go.

Opening Hours: 8:00am - 7:00pm Daily

St. Peter's Church stands on one of Vienna's oldest known religious sites, with a history dating back to the early 4th century AD. It's a spot that has hosted a church for centuries. The church we see today is a smaller version of a grander one built in 792, and the interesting tidbit is that it was founded by none other than Charlemagne himself. There's a plaque on the facade of the building that tells the tale of Charlemagne's involvement, adding a touch of historical significance.

In its current form, St. Peter's Church occupies a relatively modest space, nestled in St. Peter's Square. Its architectural style is predominantly Baroque, and it's worth noting that it ranks among the most intricately adorned churches designed in this fashion.

The exterior boasts a predominantly white and very light yellow color scheme. Two towers grace the building, defining its classic exterior appearance. These towers exhibit a slight inward curve, a design said to be inspired by the tent poles used by the Turks who once inhabited this region in the late 1600s.

Venturing inside is a must, as the church houses a splendid collection of paintings dating back to the 1700s. Many of the wooden carvings and altar pieces also hail from this period. Presently, St. Peter's Church is under the ownership and management of Opus Dei, a branch of the Catholic Church known as the "Work of God."

Why You Should Visit:
Definitely a good place to marvel at sumptuous Baroque architecture. Full of gold, marble, and finery!

Tip:
Each day from 3 till 3:30pm you can listen to live organ music here for free (donation only). An impressive way to admire this church!
Choir performances are also frequent, with for-fee events in the underground vaults.

Opening Hours:
Monday - Friday: 7:00 am-8:00 pm; Saturday, Sunday: 9:00 am-9:00 pm.

The Graben, also known as the "Ditch," is a renowned street in Vienna with a rich historical significance. Its origins trace back to the Roman era, making it an enduring part of the city's history. Even historical figures like Richard the Lionheart once walked along this road during their visits to the city.

The street's name is derived from an ancient trench that used to roughly follow its path. Eventually, this trench was filled in, transforming the Graben into one of Vienna's first modern streets.

You can begin your journey at Stock-im-Eisen-Platz and make your way to the opposite end, Tuchlauben, while passing by some remarkable historic buildings. Among these landmarks are the Ankerhaus, once the residence of Otto Wagner, and the Palais Bartolotti-Partenfeld, a beloved summer residence of the renowned Baron family, to name just a couple.

During your stroll, be sure to visit the Generalihof, which once served as the headquarters of the Leopold Kozeluch Musikalisches Magazin ("Music Magazine") publishing house, established in 1784 and responsible for the initial publication of some of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart's works. As you continue down the street, you'll come across the Grabenhof, an iconic building in the heart of Vienna's pedestrianized downtown. This building was the former residence of Joseph Ferdinand Sonnleithner, the founder of Vienna's famous music society. Erected in 1876 and designed by Otto Wagner and Otto Thienemann, it stands on the historical site of the Arkadenhaus, which existed since the late 16th century.

Your exploration of der Graben wouldn't be complete without a visit to the ERSTE Foundation building. This building houses the headquarters of the Erste Österreichische Spar Casse, Austria's largest savings bank, established in 1835.

Why You Should Visit:
To marvel at beautiful architecture and Baroque statues, and enjoy the musicians and street actors along the way, as you shop, eat, sightsee and soak up the life of Vienna.
A fantastic place to visit, especially during Christmas, with all the decorations, lamps and snow.

With its intricately patterned tiled roof, the imposing Gothic cathedral of St. Stephen's (Stephansdom) is a prime landmark inside Vienna's old city center, having stood watch over the place for nearly 700 years. Its distinctive south tower rises to an impressive 445 feet and previously has served as the main observation and command post for the city's walled defense, for which purpose it even contained an apartment for watchmen who, until 1955, manned the tower at night and rang the bells if a fire was spotted. There was to be a twin north tower, but for several reasons, it ended up being just half the size and of a different design.

The views from the Watch Room, at the top, are surely worth climbing the 343 steps, otherwise you can take a lift up to a viewing platform on the shorter tower, home to the massive Pummerin ("Boomer") Bell – the largest in Austria, originally cast from melted-down cannons abandoned by the Turks while fleeing Vienna in 1683.

High points of the interior are the gorgeous vaulting of the Albertine Chapel, the stone pulpit (a masterwork of late Gothic sculpture), canopies or baldachins over many of the side altars, and a most spectacular Renaissance work – Friedrich III's tomb. You also won't want to miss the 14th century catacombs and the treasury where some of the cathedral's most valuable objects are displayed. Some of them can only be seen on a guided tour, such as a red marble sepulcher sculpted in 1467-1513, the 16th-century pulpit, a Gothic winged altar from the 1440s, and the tomb of Prince Eugene of Savoy dated 1754.

Visit St. Stephen's Cathedral and you'll be standing in the same church in which Joseph Haydn once sang as a choir boy until his voice broke, and where Johann Strauss married both of his wives, Henrietta Treffz and Angelika Dittrich. A memorial tablet gives a detailed account of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart's relationship with the cathedral, including that of him being appointed an adjunct music director here shortly before his death. This was his parish church when he lived at the Figaro House and he was married here; two of his children were also baptized at St. Stephen's, and his funeral was held in the Chapel of the Cross inside.

Why You Should Visit:
While incredible architecture is rather commonplace in Vienna, this majestic Roman-Gothic masterpiece is absolutely unmistakable and not to be missed.

Tip:
Be sure to make a loop around the structure as there are many interesting details still visible on the outside walls.

Opening Hours:
Mon-Sat: 6am-10pm; Sun: 7am-10pm