Major Tourist Attractions in Vienna: Insider Tips and Culinary Highlights

Due to their central location, Shermin Apartments are a perfect starting point for your tour of the city. In Vienna, shopping and sightseeing are easily combined with fun and relaxation.

Once you are in Vienna's first district, we recommend starting at the majestic St. Stephen's Cathedral to visit the inside of this famous Austrian monument. Then stroll to the other end of Kärntner Strasse to enjoy its many renowned shops. You can rest at Café Sacher, where you might be tempted to enjoy a piece of the world famous Sacher chocolate cake. All of Vienna's inner city sights can be reached on foot, so another short walk will take you to the Albertina Art Museum, the Hofburg Palace, and the Burgtheater, which is located opposite the stunning Rathaus (town hall) square. At Rathaus you will find the splendid Christmas markets in the winter; in the summer the Opera Film Festival is held out front, and it attracts many visitors each year. Nearby you will see the Austrian Parliament and the University. These buildings will remind you that Austria's glorious past is still active in the present.

Many sightseeing buses offer various hop-on-hop-off tours. They offer a relaxing alternative to your extended walking tours.

Another of Vienna's top attractions is the Prater. A ride on the Riesenrad ferris wheel excites the young and elderly alike. Prater's famous Schweizer Haus restaurant offers traditional Viennese food (such as roasted pork Stelze) in an authentic atmosphere.

For animal enthusiasts, another highlight is Schönbrunn Zoo, the world's oldest zoo. Gourmands will enjoy a stroll on the multicultural Vienna Naschmarket, where you will find international culinary specialties. Vienna offers the highest level of cultural events of all kinds. Here you will find top notch theater, opera, music, ballet, art exhibitions, and much more.

On your way back to the apartment, you can enjoy a walk up Wiedner Hauptstrasse. This street is off the beaten track, and you will find many smaller shops, bars, and restaurants to enjoy.

Our tip: A trip to one of Vienna's traditional Heurigen restaurants is definitely worth your while!