A Weekend in Vienna

Stratum

Home

A Weekend in Vienna

The enchanting city of Vienna makes the ideal three-day city break to unwind amid a bustling cosmopolitan city. By day, stroll through the city and soak in its stunning blend of Baroque, Renaissance, and Neo-Classical architecture. When night descends, head to Schwedenplatz for a lively bar scene that promises excitement and, importantly, cheap beer. Below you will find our three-day guide to making the most of Vienna, ensuring you hit all top destinations.

Day one

Amongst the best bars in Vienna, Truth & Dare creates its ambience as a dimly lit underground bar with an upbeat playlist to get you in a party mood.

Day one calls for the full tourist experience. Starting with the enchanting Belvedere Palace- a baroque masterpiece with vast gardens and an impressive collection of Austrian art. For art enthusiasts, the second must-visit location is the Albertina Museum, arguably one of the best museums in Vienna that contains an extensive range of works by Picasso, Monet, and other masters, making it a must-visit for its rich blend of historical and modern art.

To fuel up for the day’s adventures, what better way to indulge than in one of the best cities for brunch than Vienna? Hilderbrandt Café is a charming spot that's quickly earning a cult following for its cosy ambience and delicious offerings. The café boasts a spacious green al fresco garden in the courtyard of the old museum.

For your Viennese nights, Schwedenplatz can cover all of your moods with a wide choice of cosy wine taverns, pubs or trendy cocktail bars. The area's central location also means it's easily accessible. Amongst the best bars in Vienna, Truth & Dare creates its ambience as a dimly lit underground bar with an upbeat playlist to get you in a party mood. Das Loft Bar & Lounge can give you a panoramic view of the city whilst sipping on a cocktail that has taken on a sophisticated twist on our usual classics and Miranda Bar, which takes on a slightly less sophisticated approach with its pastel pink and marble furnishings, but this also has a range of creative and unique cocktails that won’t break the bank.

Day two

Each room is a testament to the opulence and elegance of the Habsburg dynasty, showcasing a mix of Rococo and Baroque styles, heavy, draped curtains, gilded furniture, and walls adorned with lavish tapestries.

The Imperial apartments are a must-visit to begin day two and offer a glimpse into the luxurious life of Empress Sissi and the Habsburg monarchy. Each room is a testament to the opulence and elegance of the Habsburg dynasty, showcasing a mix of Rococo and Baroque styles, heavy, draped curtains, gilded furniture, and walls adorned with lavish tapestries.

Follow this by admiring the world-renowned Opera House, the Wiener Staatsoper, which boasts a portfolio that spans from classic to contemporary works, with over 60 different operas and ballet productions gracing its stage each season.

After your evening showing, you might be ravenous, and Vienna has no limit on dining options. Figlmüller, often hailed as the home of the "original Wiener Schnitzel," is a restaurant that has become synonymous with Austrian cuisine. It celebrates traditional flavours with a focus on quality and simplicity. The atmosphere at Figlmüller can be characterised as relaxed, warm, and welcoming, with its rustic wood-panelled walls, crisp white tablecloths, and vintage photographs.

Another restaurant that captures the comfort of Eastern European cuisine, Café Landtmann, is a historical gem dating back to 1873 when it was known as the Viennese coffee house. It still holds on to its rich cultural heritage and timeless flavours – and remains the meeting point for travellers and locals alike.

...from sprawling techno warehouses and intimate jazz clubs to energetic pop and rock venues.

For those who want to dance the rest of their night away, Vienna's lively club scene has an option for everyone, from sprawling techno warehouses and intimate jazz clubs to energetic pop and rock venues. Babenberger Passage, for example, has taken on a life of its own, once an abandoned pedestrian underpass is now one of the best dance clubs in Vienna. Flex, one of Vienna’s oldest clubs, is an iconic venue for alternative music and has been named the ‘best sound in the city’. Or, for something more relaxed, Inc. Hip-Hop Club invites those with a love for all hip-hop genres and R&B.

Day Three

Your final day should begin by brunching at Café Central, a cornerstone of the city's illustrious café culture. Enjoy its extensive brunch menu and vast range of artisanal coffee under its majestic, vaulted ceilings and arched windows, and finish with a piece of heaven as you sink into the selection of patisserie on display.

The inner city is perfect for walkers who want to admire the historic architecture, including the Hofburg Palace or visit the Wien Museum to catch your last glimpses of the ideal 360 view of the city.

Wrapping up our Vienna weekend, it's clear this city offers more than just a backdrop for postcards. Between the echoes of history in its architecture and the innovative beats of its nightlife, Vienna presents a rich tapestry of experiences. From sampling the legendary schnitzel at Figlmüller to wondering the regal halls of Belvedere Palace, we've navigated the spectrum of Viennese culture. As we depart, we're left with a nuanced appreciation for this city's ability to blend the past with the present. Vienna, you've been a revelation—till we meet again.