Tickets
If you only have one day in Vienna, it does not really make sense to buy a ViennaPass our FlexiPass. We would recommend you to experience the city mostly through the free accessible areas. There is only one ticket you need to follow our guide and a few optional tickets you can opt-in if you absolutely want to see one spot (but be aware this is a tight program anyway). You can decide if you want to explore one of the spots in more depth.
Morning: Imperial Elegance & Historic Landmarks
8:30 AM – Upper Belvedere
Start your day at one of Vienna’s most photogenic locations, the Upper Belvedere. This 18th-century baroque palace, with its mirror-like reflection pools and sprawling gardens, is a dream for photographers. The morning light gives the yellow facade a golden glow, making it the perfect time for photos. Take a moment to enjoy the breathtaking view from the upper gardens down toward the Lower Belvedere—a favorite Instagram spot!
💡 Tip: If you have time, pop inside to see Gustav Klimt’s famous The Kiss—one of Austria’s most treasured artworks.
9:00 AM – Karlskirche
A short stroll brings you to Karlskirche, Vienna’s most striking baroque church. With its massive dome and twin columns, it’s an architectural masterpiece. The reflecting pool in front offers fantastic photo opportunities—try playing with angles to capture the perfect symmetrical shot.
💡 Tip: If you’re feeling adventurous, take the elevator inside the church up to the dome’s interior for a rare close-up view of the frescoes.
Breakfast
9:20 AM – Breakfast at Gerstner K&K Hofzuckerbäcker
Step back in time at Gerstner K&K Hofzuckerbäcker, a historic confectionery once favored by the imperial court. Nestled inside Palais Todesco, this elegant café serves an authentic Viennese breakfast. Savor freshly baked pastries, sip a classic Melange coffee, and enjoy the lavish chandelier-lit interior—perfect for your morning café photo.
💡 Alternative: If you prefer a more contemporary setting, Café Prückel offers great coffee with a 1950s design aesthetic.
Late Morning
10:15 AM – Albertina Viewpoint & Vienna State Opera
Head to the Albertina terrace, one of the best vantage points in the city. From here, you can capture the Vienna State Opera in all its historic glory, beautifully contrasting with the modern Albertina Museum.
💡 Tip: For an epic shot, wait for a Fiaker (traditional horse-drawn carriage) to pass by. It adds a classic Viennese touch to your photo.
10:30 AM – Kärntner Strasse to Stephansplatz
Stroll down Kärntner Strasse, Vienna’s bustling shopping street. While it’s tempting to focus on the high-end boutiques, don’t forget to look up! The ornate facades and hidden courtyards along this stretch reveal the city’s rich architectural heritage.
10:45 AM – St. Stephen’s Cathedral
The centerpiece of Vienna, St. Stephen’s Cathedral, is a must-visit. Its Gothic spires dominate the skyline, while its colorful tiled roof makes for an iconic shot.
- Take the South Tower stairs (343 steps!) for a panoramic view.
- Explore the catacombs for a spooky but fascinating experience.
- Visit the Dom Museum, a hidden gem filled with religious artifacts.
💡 Tip: Mid-morning is the best time to visit, as tour groups usually arrive later.
11:45 AM – Graben & Kohlmarkt
Vienna’s most elegant shopping streets, Graben and Kohlmarkt, exude imperial charm. Stop by the Plague Column (Pestsäule) for a dramatic photo framed by historic buildings. This street is also home to Demel, a legendary pastry shop known for its handcrafted cakes.
12:00 PM – Hofburg Palace Complex
Walk through the Hofburg, the former imperial residence of the Habsburgs. Highlights include:
- Michaelerplatz entrance – a stunning curved facade.
- Heldenplatz – the best spot to appreciate the palace’s vast scale.
- Sisi Museum – if you have time, this museum provides fascinating insights into Empress Elisabeth’s life.
12:15 PM – Volksgarten
A peaceful oasis in the heart of Vienna, Volksgarten is famous for its beautifully manicured rose gardens and the stunning Theseus Temple, a neoclassical gem perfect for photos. Originally part of the Hofburg Palace grounds, this park offers a relaxing escape with benches under shady trees and a great view of the Rathaus. In spring and summer, the blooming roses make it one of the most romantic spots in the city.
💡 Tip: Grab a coffee from a nearby café and enjoy the view of the Heldenplatz while soaking in the imperial atmosphere.
12:35 PM – Parliament & Rathaus
Vienna’s Parliament stands out with its Greek Revival architecture, a unique sight in a city dominated by baroque design. Just a few minutes away, you’ll find the grand Rathaus (City Hall)—its Neo-Gothic spires make for a dramatic skyline shot.
12:45 PM – Maria-Theresien-Platz
Flanked by two nearly identical buildings—the Kunsthistorisches Museum and the Naturhistorisches Museum—Maria-Theresien-Platz is a masterpiece of symmetry and grandeur. At its center stands the massive monument to Empress Maria Theresa, one of Austria’s most influential rulers. This square is especially magical in the evening when the museums light up, creating a stunning backdrop for photos.
💡 Tip: If visiting in winter, don’t miss the charming Christmas market that transforms this square into a festive wonderland!
Lunchbreak
1:00 PM – Lunch at Brasserie Palmenhaus
Enjoy lunch at Brasserie Palmenhaus, an Art Nouveau greenhouse-turned-restaurant in Burggarten park. The high glass ceilings and lush greenery make it one of the most unique dining spots in Vienna.
Afternoon: Schönbrunn Palace
2:45 PM – Travel to Schönbrunn
Hop on the U4 metro (from Karlsplatz) for a quick ride to Schönbrunn Palace, the former summer residence of the Habsburgs.
3:05 PM – Schönbrunn Gardens & Gloriette
Skip the palace interior (it’s stunning but time-consuming) and explore the gardens instead:
- Climb to the Gloriette for sweeping city views.
- Admire the Neptune Fountain, framed by the palace in the background.
- Wander through the Maze & Palm House for hidden photo spots.
4:00 PM – Coffee at Café Gloriette
Relax at Café Gloriette, perched on the hill. The house specialty, Gloriette Torte, is as delicious as it is photogenic.
Evening: Classic Viennese Dining & Night Views
7:00 PM – Dinner at Meissl & Schadn or Figlmüller
For a true Viennese Schnitzel experience, pick one of these spots:
- Meissl & Schadn – Schnitzel served with elegance, cut tableside.
- Figlmüller – Famous for their oversized schnitzels in a casual setting.
9:00 PM – Drinks with a View
End your day at one of Vienna’s best rooftop bars:
- Der Dachboden – Industrial-chic vibes at 25hours Hotel.
- Libelle – A sleek terrace above Albertina Modern with a perfect view of Karlskirche.
This was our one day in vienna itinerary. If you are here for multiple days, please check out our other guys. We also have in depth guides on Things To Do and Eat & Drink if you want to create your own plan.