by Orson Johnson

1. View works of art of the Kunsthistorisches Museum - This is one of the most famous museums in the world, featuring the works of acclaimed artists from all over the world. Set aside a few hours to allow yourself ample time to take in all this museum has to offer.

The Gloriette photo by David Monniaux/Wikimedia

2. Take pictures at Schloss Schönbrunn - This is the former summer home of the Habsburg family and has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. With its beautiful extensive gardens and impressive architecture, the Schloss Schönbrunn provides countless photo taking opportunities. A walk through the gardens you will find hidden romantic alcoves, a fun little zoo (the oldest in the world), an impressive glass enclosed garden, and some amazing fountains. Stop for a bite to eat at the Gloriette for good food and a great view of the Palace.

3. Visit St Stephen’s Cathedral - With its Gothic architecture of rising spires, St Stephen’s Cathredal is a truly a sight to behold. It also possesses a number of excellent artwork within. Tours are offered on a daily basis, and you can even view the catacombs, which hold the remains of centuries of holy and royal men. There are hidden meaningful religious images and symboisms that are fun to seek out.

4. Go for a play at the Opera House - The Opera House has become an icon of Vienna, with its intriguing history and beautiful design. The elegant interior will impress you, as will the plays that are frequently staged within the Opera House. Your hotel will be able to help you get a schedule of events.

5. Take a tram ride along the Viennese Ring (or Ringstrasse)- The Viennese Ring will transport you back to the heydays of Vienna, where narrow cobbled streets prevailed. Tram rides that traverse the whole Ring that surrounds Vienna are made available on a daily basis. If you are tired, you can just hop off the trams and take a break at one of the many cafes along the Ring.

Danube Island photo by David Monniaux/Wikimedia

6. Relax in a floating pub on the island of Danube - Danube Island is a small cozy island with many parks. The world-famous Rock festival, Donauinselfest is held here annually in September. The festival attracts over 3 million people each year with music ranging from rock, hip-hop, jazz and traditional Viennese music. The best part…entrance is free! One interesting feature of the island are the countless floating pubs, this is a must for any adult visiting Danube (also known as Donauinsel).

Naschmarkt photo by Pe-Sa/Wikimedia

7. Go marketing at the Naschmarkt - One of Vienna’s biggest markets, the Naschmarket will allow you to do your marketing as well as to partake in the colourful local culture. Many souveniors and spices are available here. It is an interesting place to visit even if you do not want to buy anything. Know where the term “nasching” came from? Find out when you visit here.

8. Listen to the Vienna Boys Choir - Vienna is known for its beautiful music, and the Vienna Boys Choir will allow you to appreciate that fact. Close your eyes and be transported by their soothing and inspiring vocals.

9. Take part in the opera film festival on the Rathausplatz - This festival takes place between July and August. Opera films are shown on a wide screen and tasty food is also available for those who want to munch as they watch the films. The Rathausplatz also holds a vibrant Christmas Market in the plaza just outside the building each year.

Hundertwasser House photo by Andrzej Barabasz/Wikimedia

10. Designed by Austrian artist Friedensreich Hundertwasser, this unconventional form or architecture started construction in 1982. An interesting fact about these 50 apartments, is that it has undulating floors, basically they are uneven. The roof is made from earth and grass and some of the rooms have live trees that grow from room to room. The outside has some unusual but appealing fountains, mosaic columns

Orson Johnson writes for Holiday Velvet, a website providing Vienna holiday apartments & Worldwide Holiday apartments.