Vienna Bucket List: 15 Places You Must Visit in Vienna

One of the most beautiful cities in Europe, Vienna has it all: a UNESCO-designated historic center, bustling and secluded streets and alleys, and unique bucket list destinations you must visit at least once.

^{Last updated: June 9, 2025}

Vienna: Europe’s Bucket List Destination

Located in the eastern part of Austria, Vienna is both the capital of the country and arguably one of the most beautiful cities. From extraordinary cathedrals to dazzling museums and parks, Vienna is jam-packed with iconic sites and bucket list destinations that lure millions of visitors rain or shine, winter or summer.

We visited Vienna during a snowless winter when trees lost their lush crowns and the streets looked slightly grey and far more desolated. But maroni stands (turned out to be some of my favorite places to visit in the city) popped up on every corner, gathering small crowds of travelers that decided to explore Vienna with all its artistic and bucket list places despite the gloomy weather.

Yes, the city looked a little bit rough. Yet it still captured the hearts and left both locals and visitors in complete awe. From historic landmarks to resplendent cathedrals and dazzling museums and parks, Vienna was still a darling, loved and admired all over the world.

Whether you visit Vienna in winter or summer, be sure to check out these bucket list destinations and decide for yourself what makes the city so irresistible.

VIENNA BUCKET LIST: 15 PLACES YOU MUST VISIT

1. Schönbrunn Palace

The first place on our Vienna bucket list was the historic Schönbrunn Palace. Located in Hietzing, one of the city’s most affluent districts, the property was the main summer residence of the Habsburg dynasty.

Consequently, it was built according to the high standards that suited the most prominent families of the country. With its lavish ceremonial rooms, gorgeous sculptures, and gardens with a maze, up to this day Schönbrunn Palace is considered one of the most beautiful and must-visit places in Vienna.

2. Karlskirche (Charles Church)

The greenish copper dome of the Karlskirche, one of the most important religious buildings in the country, towers over the Karlsplatz The church made its way on our Vienna bucket list thanks to a unique combination of its exquisite architecture and history.

The Karlskirche is a proud owner of a columned portico from ancient Greece and two Trajanesque columns from ancient Rome. Its signature dome and towers are examples of the Viennese Baroque style. The Karlskirche was completed in 1739 as a symbol of victory over the devastating Black Plague of 1679 that claimed nearly 76,000 lives.

3. Naschmarkt

The famous Naschmarkt is one of the most-visited places in Vienna for foodies. With more than 100 food and vintage stalls, this bucket list destination offers you a wide range of traditional dishes and food from different cuisines that has been adapted to Vienna’s palates.

4. Hofburg

The stunning Hofburg has been a place of leaders and rulers of Austria since the 13^th century. Continuing the tradition, today the palace serves as the official residence and workplace of the Austrian President.

Yet this doesn’t stop locals and visitors from stepping inside and admiring one of Vienna’s most beautiful places. Different tours and programs to explore the interior and learn more about the past and present of the city are offered most days of the year.

5. Stephen’s Cathedral

Located in the historic Old Town, St. Stephen’s Cathedral is one of those Vienna bucket list places that is hard not to notice. The gorgeous medieval Roman Catholic Church entices numerous visitors with its signature ornate spire, catacombs, and a treasury museum.

6. Stephansplatz

The Stephansplatz is the geographical center of Vienna. This place was named after the famous St. Stephen’s Cathedral. Visitors are mostly interested in this destination as a central point on the U-Bahn for changing lines. Apart from it, the area is a great starting point for exploring many Vienna bucket list places that are located just a short walk away.

7. Rathaus (Vienna City Hall)

Like many other Vienna bucket list places, the Rathaus is located in the Innere Stadt (the historic center). Beautiful and alluring at any time of the year, the place is especially popular in winter when the entire Rathausplatz turns into a magical winter wonderland. With Christmas lights and a big ice rink in front of the stunning building, it is indeed one of the best places you ought to visit in Vienna during this time.

READ MORE: 5 Must-Do Things in Vienna, Austria (Beyond Sightseeing)

8. Graben

Graben is one of the most popular streets in Vienna for great shopping, food, and entertainment.

9. Plague Column

The Plague Column is Vienna’s most popular sculpture located on the Graben. Similar to the Karlskirche, it was erected after the Great Plague in remembrance of the horrible epidemic of 1679.

10. MuseumsQuartier

The MuseumsQuartier with its remarkable historic and modern buildings is one of the largest artistic and cultural areas in the world. Spanning more than 640,000 square feet, the place is home to numerous museums, restaurants, cafes, and shops.

11. Hundertwasserhaus

The Hundertwasserhaus is one of the most unusual structures you can see in Vienna. Unlike the city’s classic attractions, this apartment house instantly strikes with its bright colors and uneven lines.

12. Austrian Parliament Building

The Austrian Parliament Building is another architectural masterpiece of Vienna, full of history, stories, and art. You can marvel at the structure from outside or join a guided tour and explore the interior of this stunning neoclassical structure.

13. Volksgarten

Volksgarten is a public park in the Innere Stadt of Vienna. It is also a part of the famous Hofburg Palace. The least visited section of the property, the park is a perfect place to relax and enjoy Vienna’s remarkable sculptures.

14. Maria-Theresien-Platz

The Maria-Theresien-Platz is a public square in Vienna near MuseumsQuartier. Known for its beautiful monument, fountains, and lots of green spaces, the garden provides plenty of opportunities to unwind before venturing to the next stop on your Vienna bucket list.

15. Vienna State Opera House

When in the city, you can’t miss a show at the Vienna State Opera House, one of the leading opera houses in the world. Apart from enjoying shows and ballets, you can also sign up for a guided tour and explore the behind-the-scenes ambience.