In 2026, we headed to Austria for another trip, and so I thought it about time to update my Vienna itinerary. Few cities in the world capture the grandeur of Old World Europe quite like Vienna. As the historic heart of the former Hapsburg Empire, the Austrian capital is a seamless blend of grand imperial architecture, rich musical heritage, and world-class fine art. But beyond its majestic palaces and gilded concert halls, Vienna also charms with its pace of life. There’s nothing quite like slowing down over a drink and cake in a marble-clad cafe.
So, whether you want to see Klimt’s golden masterpieces, explore palatial gardens, or just stuff your face with a Wiener Schnitzel, two days is the perfect amount of time to fall under the city’s spell. Here is how to make every hour count during 48 unforgettable hours in Vienna.
Vienna Itinerary Day 1: The City’s Imperial Heart
Morning: Stephansplatz & The Historic Old Town
Start in the beating heart of Vienna at St. Stephen’s Cathedral (Stephansdom). Climb the 343 steps of the South Tower for a panoramic sweeping view across the city’s tiled rooftops. The ancient cathedral is a symbol of Vienna, its tower dominating the skyline of the city, and its colourful roof (rebuilt following extensive WWII bombing) one of the main attractions of visiting.
Also within the cathedral is a treasury, as well as catacombs which contain the coffins of the early Hapsburg Emperors and urns containing the entrails of later Hapsburgs (!). Also in the catacombs you can see a mass grave pit of 18th century plague victims from the last plague outbreak in 1735. Out of a population of 30,000, over 10,000 died.
Afterwards, stroll a bit more around the old town by taking in the pedestrian streets of Graben and Kärntner Straße, stopping to marvel at the Baroque architecture and the intricate Plague Column.
Whilst in the Old Town, also be sure to refuel like a local at Café Central or Café Sacher. Order a Melange (espresso topped with steamed milk and foam) paired with a slice of classic Sachertorte or warm Apfelstrudel.
Afternoon: Hofburg Palace
Walk through Michaelerplatz to explore the Hofburg Palace complex, the centuries-old seat of the Hapsburg Empire. Visit the Sisi Museum and Imperial Apartments to learn about Empress Elisabeth’s fascinating life. The silver collection is a definite highlight, and we easily spent half a day here exploring.
After all that exploring, it’s time to book something nice for the evening. I recommend Figlmüller for dinner – they are famous for their larger-than-the-plate Wiener Schnitzel, or try Plachutta for traditional Tafelspitz (tender boiled beef).
To finish off the day, you could also take a night walk night walk, strolling past the illuminated Vienna State Opera on the Ringstraße boulevard.
Vienna Itinerary Day 2: More Palaces
Morning: Schönbrunn Palace
Top Tip: Get a 24-hour or 48-hour Vienna Public Transport pass (covers U-Bahn, trams, buses).
Take the U-Bahn (U4 line) directly to Schönbrunn Palace, the summer residence of the Hapsburgs (where the famous former rulers of Austria lives all the way until 1918). Book the Grand Tour to explore the opulent staterooms. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll up to the Gloriette on the hill for stunning photo angles of the palace and park.
The palace itself is gorgeous inside, including The Blue Chinese Salon room which is where the negotiations were held that culminated in the renunciation by Karl I as the last emperor of Austria and the proclamation of the Republic of Austria (ending 600 years of Hapsburg rule). Also inside is The Grand Gallery, which is where President Kennedy and Soviet Premier Kruschev met to diffuse the Cuban Missile crisis (the only room in the history of ancient houses my Dad has been interested in!). Also at the palace are stunning gardens, as well as a Palm House and a maze. There’s even a zoo (Tiergarten) on the site.
Important: Book Schönbrunn Palace timed ticket reservations online early.
Afternoon: Belvedere Palace & Klimt’s “The Kiss”
After grabbing some lunch (try Naschmarkt, Vienna’s famous open-air food market. Sample local Austrian cheeses, falafel, or sit down at one of the lively market bistros for lunch), it’s time to head to another Palace.
Visit the Upper Belvedere Palace, a stunning Baroque masterpiece housing an incredible Austrian art collection. The absolute highlight here is Gustav Klimt’s world-famous gold-leaf painting, The Kiss. Art isn’t really my thing so this was a little wasted on me, but when in Vienna it’s something that must be done.
After all that culture, it’s time to finish your 48 hours at Prater Park. Hop aboard the historic Riesenrad (Giant Ferris Wheel), operating since 1897, for sunset views over the city skyline. Wrap up the evening with drinks and dinner at Prater Alm or a rooftop lounge nearby. Perfect!
Day Trips & Extensions from Vienna
If you have longer than a couple of days in Vienna, then there are lots of day trip and extensions you could add to your time in this wonderful country.
- The Wachau Valley (day trip) – to explore magical castles and wineries by bike along the Danube.
- Melk Abbey (day trip) – for one of the most beautiful and famous Baroque abbeys in Europe.
- Salzburg (extension via train) – magical hilltop castles and scenic mountains.
- Salzkammergut (extension via car/train & bus) – if you love hiking and nature off the beaten track amongst Alpine lakes.
Further Information: You can read all my posts on Austria HERE.
So there you have it, a guide to spending 2 days in beautiful Vienna. It’s a city which is full of picturesque buildings and interesting sites; there are museums around every corner and you could easily spend a week here if you love architecture and art. I personally just loved wandering around eating cake – what more could a girl want!?
What do you think of Vienna? Let me know in the comments below – stay safe and happy travelling!
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