Quick answer
For a first visit to Vienna, plan about five days. Day one: Schönbrunn Palace, its gardens and the Gloriette. From there, build in St. Stephen's Cathedral and Belvedere Palace, and leave time for the food.
A 5-day Vienna itinerary
- Day1
Schönbrunn Palace, its gardens and the Gloriette.
- Day2
Hofburg Palace, the Spanish Riding School, St. Stephen's Cathedral.
- Day3
Belvedere Palace to see Klimt's The Kiss, the Naschmarkt.
- Day4
Vienna State Opera, a Ringstrasse walk.
- Day5
Day trip to the Wachau Valley, a farewell coffeehouse evening.
Where to eat in Vienna
- Breakfast
- Café Central — historic Viennese coffeehouse
- Lunch
- Naschmarkt food stalls
- Dinner
- Plachutta — famous for Tafelspitz
Top sights
- Schönbrunn Palace
- St. Stephen's Cathedral
- Belvedere Palace
- Vienna State Opera
Shopping
- Naschmarkt
- Kärntner Straße
- Mariahilfer Straße
Vienna FAQ
How many days do you need in Vienna?
Five days covers Vienna's highlights at a comfortable pace — start with Schönbrunn Palace and St. Stephen's Cathedral, then use the remaining days for neighborhoods, food and a day trip. Gigi adjusts the plan to your interests and how you like to travel.
What are the must-see sights in Vienna?
Well-known highlights include Schönbrunn Palace, St. Stephen's Cathedral, Belvedere Palace, Vienna State Opera. Booking timed entries or a private guide for the busiest sights saves hours in lines.
Where should you shop in Vienna?
Popular shopping stops include Naschmarkt, Kärntner Straße, Mariahilfer Straße. Hours and seasonal closures vary, so confirm before you go.
General reference, not Gigi's personally vetted picks — a starting point built from well-known, long-standing places. Hours, prices and openings change; she'll confirm and personalize everything before you go.