Vienna is the most interesting. Where to go and what sights are worth seeing in Vienna? Vienna Street Art Gallery

Everyone knows about the existence of the Schengen area and the European Union. But here is the paradox: the absolute majority identify these two associations, which is fundamentally wrong. Let's figure it out.

The Schengen Agreement, signed by 26 countries, implies the free movement of citizens of these countries through the territory of the Schengen member states. No border controls at internal borders, with the exception of external ones - with countries bordering the Schengen area.

In turn, the EU is a political and economic union of 28 countries.

Thus, the Schengen area and the European Union are two completely different organizations. Not all EU countries are part of the Schengen area, just as not all Schengen countries are members of the EU.

Nevertheless, a tourist who has received a Schengen visa stamp from one of the relevant countries in his passport (we will not go into all the nuances, since there are several categories of visas, besides, no one has canceled the concepts of “first entry” and “main country of residence”), has the right to move freely around the countries included in the Schengen zone.

As of 2019 list of Schengen countries looks like this (in alphabetical order):

  1. Austria
  2. Belgium
  3. Hungary
  4. Germany
  5. Greece
  6. Denmark
  7. Iceland
  8. Spain
  9. Italy
  10. Latvia
  11. Lithuania
  12. Liechtenstein
  13. Luxembourg
  14. Malta
  15. Netherlands
  16. Norway
  17. Poland
  18. Portugal
  19. Slovakia
  20. Slovenia
  21. Finland
  22. France
  23. Czech
  24. Switzerland
  25. Sweden
  26. Estonia

On closer examination, it can be seen that four states from the above list are not members of the European Union. We are talking about Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland.

In addition, among the countries that have signed the Schengen Agreement, there are no four current members of the European Union. These are Bulgaria, Cyprus, Romania and Croatia. This is due to the fact that these countries joined the EU after the creation of the Schengen area, and for various reasons, they still do not reach the appropriate level. For example, Romania is accused of insufficient fight against corruption, while Cyprus has an unresolved conflict with Turkey (occupation of the northern part of the island).

True, if you have a Schengen visa, you can freely enter these countries, although a few years ago some of them required their national visas to enter.

Keep in mind also that non-EU dwarf European states like Andorra, Monaco, San Marino and the Vatican are de facto led into the Schengen area.

On a special account in the European Union, Great Britain and Ireland, which are full members of the EU, but are not included in the Schengen area and carry out their own passport and visa policies.

To date list of member countries of the European Union next (in alphabetical order):

  1. Austria
  2. Belgium
  3. Bulgaria
  4. Great Britain (preparing to withdraw from the union!)
  5. Hungary
  6. Germany
  7. Greece
  8. Denmark
  9. Ireland
  10. Spain
  11. Italy
  12. Latvia
  13. Lithuania
  14. Luxembourg
  15. Malta
  16. Netherlands
  17. Poland
  18. Portugal
  19. Romania
  20. Slovakia
  21. Slovenia
  22. Finland
  23. France
  24. Croatia
  25. Czech
  26. Sweden
  27. Estonia

In conclusion, it is worth noting that the above lists of Schengen and the European Union may well undergo changes in the near future. Let's not forget that Albania, Iceland, Macedonia, Serbia, Turkey and Montenegro are in line for EU membership. Bosnia and Herzegovina and Kosovo are also knocking on the EU doors. Yes, and talk about depriving Greece of membership in the EU or the Schengen area is being conducted more and more often.

In order for a Russian citizen to visit one of the countries of the Schengen Agreement or several at once, he must apply for a Schengen visa. This visa entitles you to a limited period of stay in the country. For those Russians who do not have such a document, crossing the border of the Schengen state will be prohibited.

Who is in Schengen in 2019?

The first participants in the Schengen Agreement, signed in 1985, were only 5 countries: Germany (at that time - Germany), France, Belgium, Luxembourg and the Netherlands. According to the postulates of the agreement, a Schengen visa issued in one country remained valid when visiting other states that are members of the alliance, and, therefore, foreign citizens temporarily residing in one of these countries can freely move within the Schengen zone without the need to present any other documents except for a passport. The Schengen Community has been constantly growing, increasing the number of participants: Portugal and Spain were the first to join it in 1995, and after them - Italy, Greece, Austria, Hungary in 1997, Finland, Iceland, Denmark, Norway, Sweden- in 2001, Latvia, Lithuania, Malta, Poland, Slovakia, Slovenia, Czech Republic and Estonia in 2007, Switzerland in 2008 and Liechtenstein in 2011.

The composition of the Schengen Alliance changes regularly. For example, soon it should be replenished Bulgaria, Romania, Cyprus, Croatia attached to the European Union.

A Russian citizen needs to obtain a Schengen visa for the country that is his destination. If the trip is conceived as a tour of European countries, the first entry rule applies: you should request a Schengen visa from the state that will be first in line for a visit.

What are Schengen visas?

The classification of Schengen visas is quite diverse. In general, they are divided into categories C and D. Category C visas are also divided into several subspecies. It is worth considering what rights and opportunities each of these categories gives:

  • Visa category C- for short trips up to 90 days. Category C Schengen visas are also divided into the following subspecies:

Schengen visa validity period 2019 from different countries

Schengen visa this is a chance to visit not only the country in whose Embassy you received it, but also to freely move around the territory of all states included in the Schengen area (currently it includes 26 European countries).

Schengen visa allows you to get acquainted with the culture and peculiarities of different countries without complicated planning of the route and return to Russia for subsequent entry into another country, which significantly saves time and money for the traveler, and makes his trip more intense, regardless of the tastes of the person and his preferences. This is where its biggest advantage lies.

What determines the validity of a Schengen visa?

The validity of a Schengen visa depends on a number of factors. First of all it is:

  • type of visa and purpose of the trip (short-term, transit visas, national, business visas, medical, etc.);
  • visa history in the passport (initial registration usually implies a short stay in the country, subsequent application not only facilitates obtaining a visa, but also increases its validity period);
  • the conditions of the country whose Embassy you are applying to (despite the fact that the Schengen visa blurs the borders between the countries that are part of its area of ​​​​action, each country has its own rules for issuing and validity of visas).

How long do Embassies of different countries of the Schengen area issue visas in 2019?

The most demanded is the tourist Schengen visa. The term of its validity largely depends on the country, the Embassy of which you applied for its registration. Let's consider some of them:

For visiting Baltic countries(Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania), issued Schengen visa for 6 months (or according to the dates of the planned trip) if you are entering the territory of the Baltic States for the first time. Upon subsequent application, a Schengen visa is issued for a period of 1 year (90/360).

Embassy of Poland opens a visa on the first visit to the country for up to 30 days, on the second visit - for 6 months. If you apply for a visa for the third time, an annual Schengen visa. With each subsequent application, you can get a visa for 2 years, if you have not had violations of the visa regime.

Embassy of the Czech Republic puts a visa in a clean passport valid for no more than 30 days, with subsequent requests you can get an annual visa (90/360).

Germany usually issues visas according to the dates of a tourist trip (for confirmation, you need hotel reservations, air tickets). In rare cases, with multiple applications, the German Embassy may issue a visa for 5 years.

Italy during the initial application opens a visa for six months, with subsequent - for a year or two.

Embassy of France in a clean passport puts a visa 90/180, with subsequent requests, the validity of the visa increases to a year. With multiple registration can be issued Schengen visa .

To Greece The first visa is given for a year, with repeated registration up to 3 years.

Spain usually opens a visa for six months, if it was not previously issued, and with subsequent applications, you can get a visa for 1-2 years.

Which countries are available to Schengen visa holders 2019

Many people believe that having at their disposal a Schengen visa of any type (transit, short-term or long-term), they will be able to visit only 26 countries that have already entered the Schengen zone. That is: Portugal, Estonia, Poland, Italy, Liechtenstein, Austria, Finland, Netherlands, Switzerland, Greece, Norway, Czech Republic, Iceland, Luxembourg, Germany, Slovenia, Sweden, Malta, Denmark, Slovakia, Spain, Latvia, France, Belgium, Lithuania, Hungary and Denmark. But in fact, the opportunities for Schengen visa holders are much wider. It also provides access to those countries that are just taking the first steps towards Schengen - Croatia, Albania, Romania, Macedonia, Cyprus and Bulgaria. But at the same time, it is important to take into account the fact that if you go to these countries from the Schengen countries with a single-entry visa, you will no longer be able to return back to the territory of Spain, France or any other country in the Schengen zone.

In addition, you can visit Monaco, the Vatican and even San Marino. For trips to Andora, you will also need a Schengen visa, which will allow you to return back to Spain or France. But it must be a multiple-entry visa, otherwise, you may run into problems.

How to read a Schengen visa


1. Valid for - when issuing a Schengen for a specific country - indicate "SCHENGEN COUNTRIES" in the language of the state that granted the Schengen. When limiting the validity of a visa to the territory of one country, indicate the abbreviation of this country.
2. From - the beginning of the Schengen.
3. Until - the end of the Schengen. Leave the country after the expiration date before 00:00.
4. Type of visa - a kind of Schengen. Marked with letters. For example - C, D (short-term and national - respectively) and others.
5. Number of entries - the number of allowed visits to countries (-s). 1-entry visa - 1 time, 2-entry visa - 2 times, multiple entry - visits are unlimited.
6. Duration of stay ... days - the allowed number of days in the Schengen country.
7. Issued in - location of the embassy that issued the document.
8. On is the date of granting the visa.
9. Number of passport - recipient's passport number.
10. Surname, name - recipient's initials.
11. Remarks - Schengen destination, information for border guards and embassies.
Below is the cipher read by the scanner during the verification process.

1 First line:
. type of document provided (V);
. type of Schengen (A, B, D); state code;
. recipient's initials;
. the remaining space is filled with the symbol "<».

2.Second line:
. document number (upper right);
. control sign (formed by calculations);
. state code of the recipient;
. birth number;
. floor;
. expiration of the Schengen visa;
. check mark;
. the state for which a visa is issued (a single one - the symbol “<», посещение определенной страны - Т);
. number of visits;
. the allowed number of days of stay in the territory of the host country;
. date of entry into force of the Schengen.

The main reasons for the rejection of a Schengen visa in 2019

  1. The passport you provided for the Schengen visa application is fake/falsified.
  2. The documents do not confirm the stated purposes and conditions of the trip.
  3. Previously, you have been in the Schengen area for more than three months in the last six months (on the basis of a Schengen short-stay visa or a visa with a territorial restriction).
  4. The documents do not confirm the availability of funds for staying in the country for the declared period / for entering the country of residence after the expiration of the visa / for transit travel to the country, entry into which you are guaranteed.
  5. You have been entered into the Schengen information system SIS - you are prohibited from entering the territory of the entire Schengen area.
  6. You have not provided evidence of valid, eligible motor third party liability insurance.
  7. One or more of the Schengen countries suggests that you pose a threat to national security or public order.
  8. The information provided about the purpose and conditions of the trip is unreliable.
  9. Your intention to leave the Schengen territory upon the expiration of the visa has not been established. If you suspect migration, you can provide certificates of ownership of property in Russia or the presence of good reasons for returning - marriage, children, own business, work.

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Alfavisa has been helping people to obtain visas to various countries for a long time, including the countries of the Schengen area. Our experience, knowledge of the existing nuances and well-established cooperation schemes help to ensure that you receive the required visa as soon as possible. Contact us, we will be happy to help you!

The list of Schengen countries in 2018 remains the same. This means that all the same 26 states remain full members of the Schengen area. But it is not synonymous with the European Union. Later in the text we will tell you why these two concepts are both compatible and not at the same time.

The Schengen zone, which is simply called Schengen for short, was formed in 1985 in the village of the same name - Schengen, which is located in the southeastern part of the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg, almost on the very edge of the state, where it borders with Germany and France. The Schengen Agreement was fixed at that time by five European countries: Belgium, the Netherlands, France, Germany and Luxembourg. It was then June 14th.

This agreement on the simplification of passport and visa control at the borders of a number of states of the European Union entered into force only 10 years later - on March 26, 1995. However, it did not last long: it lasted until May 1, 1999, when, in fact, it was replaced by the Schengen legislation of the European Union. By that time, a number of other states located in Europe had joined the Schengen, a list of which we will give a little later.

Now we will tell you what the European Union is. The EU, as the European Union is abbreviated, is an economic and political association of 28 European states. Its main goal is regional integration. Legally, this union was enshrined in 1992 by the Maastricht Treaty (it officially sounds like this: “Treaty on the European Union”), which includes the principles of the European Community.

It was already possible to enter into force on November 1, 1993, that is, as you can see, about a year and a half before the start of the Schengen Agreement. But the topic for our material is exclusively Schengen, so further in the article we will talk directly about it.

List of Schengen countries in 2018

In the list of Schengen countries in 2018, there are still 26 states that previously successfully joined and still enjoy all the benefits of the Schengen Agreement. This free zone of movement is still the ultimate dream for both hardened tourists and just people who travel the world from time to time.

The list of all 26 Schengen countries in 2018 looks like this:

  1. Austria (hereinafter in the list the year of accession to Schengen will be indicated: 1995)
  2. Belgium (1985)
  3. Czech Republic (2004)
  4. Denmark (1996)
  5. Estonia (2004)
  6. Finland (1996)
  7. France (1985)
  8. Germany (1985)
  9. Greece (1992)
  10. Hungary (2004)
  11. Iceland (1996)
  12. Italy (1990)
  13. Latvia (2004)
  14. Lithuania (2004)
  15. Luxembourg (1985)
  16. Malta (2004)
  17. Netherlands (1985)
  18. Norway (1996)
  19. Poland (2004)
  20. Portugal (1992)
  21. Slovakia (2004)
  22. Slovenia (2004)
  23. Spain (1992)
  24. Sweden (1996)
  25. Switzerland (2004)
  26. Liechtenstein (2008)

Note that the notorious Brexit is the UK's exit from the European Union, and not from the Schengen area. The UK has, so to speak, a special relationship with the Schengen Agreement.

On the way to joining the ranks of the countries participating in the Schengen Agreement today are the following states:

  1. Bulgaria
  2. Romania
  3. Croatia

In principle, Ukraine, which recently received a visa-free regime with the European Union, can also be included here, and it seems that based on the results of this, it will soon be very clear to judge whether Ukraine will sign the Schengen agreement in the near future or not.

Important information about Schengen

The list of Schengen countries for 2018 has not changed, but several have changed the procedures for passing border control for tourists, for whom travel within the Schengen area was previously free.

In connection with the numerous flows of refugees, which was recorded in 2016 and 2017, the European Commission limited control at the borders of the states that are part of the Schengen group. However, by 2018, as follows from recent news, members of the European Commission plan to level this tougher measure in relation to absolutely all tourists, thereby everything should be returned to the previously established full-fledged work.

To date, the Schengen area covers over 4 million square kilometers of the Old World, on the territory of which more than 400 million people live.

It is worth remembering that for some countries there are small and not very restrictions, as well as their own visiting features, along with some exceptions, so it is imperative for a tourist to collect full information in advance about how he should act while in the territory of a foreign state so that this does not go beyond local laws.

The list of Schengen countries in 2018, as you can see, has not changed. The Schengen area still includes 26 states that have previously signed an agreement on the simplification of passport and visa control for their citizens. In conclusion, we can only wish you a pleasant flight and good mood throughout the entire journey. But how could it be otherwise?

Vienna is the capital of Austria and its largest city, located in the east of the country. A trip to Vienna is attractive for us not only for its rich cultural life, many sights and the beauty of nature surrounding the city, but also for its practical side: the capital of Avaria is one of the cheapest flights to Europe from Russia, and today almost everyone can get a Schengen visa.

In addition, it is not at all necessary to be limited to Vienna alone in your journey. Austria is a relatively small state (at least compared to Russia), so getting, for example, by train from the capital to Innsbruck, which is located at the opposite end of the country, will take you only about 4 hours. Well, two more popular destinations from Vienna are Budapest and Bratislava - the capitals of neighboring European states. Budapest is three hours away by train, and Bratislava is an hour away by bus or car.

How to get to Vienna

By plane

The easiest way, of course, is to fly to Vienna by plane. Many airlines make regular direct flights from major cities in Russia and CIS countries to the capital of Austria. For example, a flight from Moscow to Vienna takes about 2 hours and 30 minutes. The most popular airlines for this destination are Aeroflot and Austrian Airlines. With a transfer, it will be significantly cheaper to fly, and there are much more options for flights with a transfer. Here we choose not only from two airlines, but also from a huge number of other European air carriers, for example, Air Baltic, Brussels Airlines, Vueling, Air France and others.

Enter the destination and departure point, flight dates in the search and click "Find". Total: Moscow-Vienna and Vienna-Moscow tickets from April 13 to April 20, 2016 will cost us a minimum of 11,474 rubles, thanks to the Dutch carrier KLM. Please note that the price may be lower, because many companies regularly hold promotions and discounts.

By train

You can also get to Vienna by train. But only from Moscow, the rest of the cities of Russia do not have communication with Austria by land. The only major city that is as lucky as Moscow is on the way to Vienna, and that is Smolensk. The Belarusian capital Minsk was also lucky.

There are two trains: Moscow-Vienna and Moscow-Nice. Both depart from the Belorussky railway station of the capital.

The Moscow-Nice train runs on Thursdays towards Vienna and on Sundays towards Moscow. On the way, you will spend 1 day and 4 hours, but do not be alarmed, because the train is very comfortable, this is not a regional train for you. The cost of a one-way ticket starts from 114 euros. You can see the full price list and schedule, as well as get acquainted with the discount system on the official website of the train http://www.poezd-moskva-nicca.ru.

The Moscow-Vienna train goes to the Austrian capital for the same number of hours and makes stops at the same major points as Moscow-Nice. The difference is only in the price of the ticket - these are much cheaper, and in the time of departure of the train. Departure on Fridays at midnight. Traveling by train to Vienna is a great option for those who are afraid of flying, but love and want to travel.

By car

About how to travel by car in Europe, we have already written a detailed article "" for you. But get ready for a long road - you will spend at least 20 hours on the road if you are coming from Moscow. And from other cities of Russia, located to the east of the capital or to the north, the journey is even longer.

The optimal route to Vienna by car is through Belarus, Poland and the Czech Republic. You will travel a little longer if after Poland you go to Slovakia, and from there to Vienna, excluding the Czech Republic from their route.

Weather in Vienna

The climate of Vienna is similar to the climate of central Russia, only slightly milder. Winter is sometimes harsh, but most often the mark on the thermometer does not fall below zero. In summer, you are more likely to find yourself in pleasant warmth than in heat and stuffiness. In July and August the average temperature is 20 degrees.

Vienna transport

Vienna's public transport network is well developed and includes buses, trams, metros and trains. True, you most likely will not need electric trains within the city - you can easily get to any place in Vienna by other transport.

The subway consists of five branches: green, orange, brown, red and purple. In the city center, the stations are very close to each other, so you won't need a taxi to move around the city center. In other areas, stations are less common, but still within walking distance from each other. In extreme cases, you can use any type of land transport. A metro ticket costs 2.2 euros, it can be purchased at any station in a special machine or at some stations at the box office.

Buses and trams cover both the center and the rest of the city. With the schedule of each route and stops, it is more difficult than in the subway. It is better to have a Vienna public transport card with you (you can ask for it at the tourist information center of the capital). If they do not have a map, then they will definitely tell you how to get to a particular place in the city. A ticket also costs 2.2 euros and is bought either at a tobacco shop or from the driver, which will be 10 cents more expensive.

To plan your travels in Vienna in advance, it is convenient to use the official public transport website of the Austrian capital http://www.wienerlinien.at, which is available in German and English. Here you can read about preferential travel conditions and discounts, as well as see what mode of transport and what route number you will use to get to your destination.
And, of course, as in any developed European city, Vienna has a lot of car rentals and no less taxi services. You can read more about car rental in our article "".

Main sights of Vienna

Hofburg

The residence of the Austrian kings Hofburg is located in the heart of Vienna. The incredible building, which has more than two and a half thousand rooms, is still one of the main assets of the capital of Austria. Not only are many of the halls of the palace open to tourists, but museums of the history of art and natural history are also open on the territory of the Hofburg. Well, those who are interested only in the external architecture of buildings or are limited in time can take a walk in the parks and squares near the palace, or maybe even have a picnic in fine weather.

St. Stephen's Cathedral

The Cathedral of Vienna - St. Stephen's Cathedral, begins its history in the XII century. It acquired its current appearance only over time, and every part of it, every detail of the interior and exterior can impress even the most fastidious tourist. This landmark of Vienna is placed in the first place, because not to see St. Stephen's Cathedral means not to see Vienna. Entrance to the cathedral is free, some parts inside are closed and available for a fee, for example, the crypt of the cathedral or the central part. In addition, the cathedral is conveniently located - the main pedestrian street of the city of Graben starts from it. So it makes sense to start exploring the city right here, near the cathedral of the Stephanplatz metro station, especially since there will be much fewer people in the cathedral in the morning than in the afternoon.

Schönbrunn

The summer residence of the Austrian Habsburgs is located within the city of Vienna near the green line Schönbrunn metro station of the same name. Without exaggeration, you can set aside a whole day to inspect the palace and surrounding areas. Here, not only the palace itself and its park part are worthy of attention, but also several other museums, for example, the Museum of Carriages and Carriages or the famous Vienna Zoo. The zoo is famous, first of all, for the presence of pandas in it, but in addition to these rare and insanely cute animals, the Vienna Zoo still has something to be proud of - both children and adults will be delighted. Well, for a "dessert" you can visit a master class on cooking Viennese strudel or just have dinner at the Schönbrunn restaurant.

Gazebo

Belvedere Palace is another example of the fact that Austrian high society knew a lot about palaces and castles. Today, the Belvedere is a museum of painting, which houses an excellent collection of impressionism, and most importantly, the most significant collection in the world of the famous Austrian modernist Gustav Klimat, whose work the whole country is proud of to this day. The Belvedere consists of two parts - Upper and Lower, for each of which you can buy a separate ticket (you can also share a ticket for two museums, it will be cheaper). Between themselves, the Upper and Lower Palaces are separated by a beautiful small park - so that those who are not particularly interested in painting can just have a pleasant stroll and imagine themselves in the 18th century.

Vienna City Hall

The building that you will certainly remember from walking around Vienna is the Vienna City Hall. Unfortunately, you won’t be able to get inside, since the city administration is still located in the town hall today, but nothing will stop you from walking around. In addition, it is the square in front of the town hall that most often becomes a platform for city holidays. Christmas markets are held here, an open-air cinema is opened and all kinds of festivals are organized, for example, a light festival or music festivals.
The Vienna State Opera is a world famous opera house that is visited by tens of thousands of people every year. Tickets are not cheap, but for 30 euros you can buy a ticket for a "gallery" or standing room right on the day of the performance. The building of the legendary opera is located between the Karlsplatz and Stensplatz metro stations, on the Vienna "Ring" - the ring road surrounding the Old Town.
The Karlskirche church itself and the Karlsplatz square in front of it are undoubtedly worthy of the attention of a tourist. Fairs are often held on the square, where you can taste the main dishes of Austrian cuisine at fairly affordable prices. And the church, built in the 18th century in honor of the deliverance of the city from the plague, will undoubtedly become one of the most unusual landscapes you observe at dinner. You can even enter the church for a moderate fee of 5 euros. It is quite small, but it impresses with how harmoniously several architectural styles are combined in it: from classicism to baroque. But it’s better not to spend money on the observation deck under the dome of the cathedral - the view through the small lattice windows is not as impressive as the panoramas from other areas of the city.

Hundertwasser House

One of the most avant-garde architects of the last century, Friedensreich Hundertwasser, it would seem that he could remain in the shadows with his strange ideas, but nevertheless he managed to get permission to design several houses in the center of Vienna. Now these houses are one of the most visited places in the Austrian capital, which is well deserved. We advise you to take a walk at least to the most popular of them, which is located at Kegelgasse 36-38, to see live how unusual the architect’s ideas were, and how he managed to fit a residential building into the surrounding nature, and, of course, to smile at the strange “finds” of Hundertwasser, be it glass bottles embedded in the walls, or crooked windows, seemingly located at random.

Museum Quarter

In the heart of the capital there is a museum quarter, which unites several leading museums in Austria. While not all of Vienna's major museums are in one place, the MuseumsQuartier is a great idea that is now being successfully promoted in other major cities around the world. There are museums of modern art, a children's museum, and even a museum of a private collection of modern art. In short, this place will appeal to people of all ages and interests. And between the museums there is a small square with fountains, pebbles and comfortable sunbeds and benches, where locals often spend their free time reading a book or having lunch.
More details in the article "".

anti-aircraft towers

Since the Second World War, the Anti-Aircraft Towers have been preserved in Vienna, which were built to protect local authorities, store weapons and important objects of art and history of the city. Looking at them, as never before, you understand how many-sided and diverse Vienna is, that it has not only imperial palaces and ancient castles. All the towers, except for one (in which the oceanarium is located) are closed to the public, but at least once you will certainly see them, as they stand out noticeably in the general panorama of the city, due to their gigantic size. More details in the article "".

What to do in Vienna

Stroll through the Old Town

What is the most logical way to start your acquaintance with any European capital? Of course, with a walk through the Old Town. In Vienna, the historic center is surrounded by a boulevard ring called the Ring. All the most iconic and interesting places of the city are concentrated here - St. Stephen's Cathedral, the Hofburg Palace, Graben Street, the Opera House, the Museum Quarter and more. There are also thousands of cozy cafes, famous restaurants and shops of Vienna in the center, so you can always dilute the cultural program with shopping or a hearty lunch.

Go to the museum

There are a huge number of museums in Vienna, which are in no way inferior in importance to the collections of the leading museums of the world. For example, the Kunsthistorisches Museum at the Hofburg Palace is often compared to Dover, the British Museum, and the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York. Fans of painting and sculpture may also be interested in the Leopold Museum in the Museum Quarter of Vienna, the Belvedere, the Albertina Gallery, which is located immediately behind the opera houses, or, for example, the Vienna Secession, in which a room painted by Gustav Klimat was opened not so long ago.
But one should not think that only art museums are worthy of attention in Vienna. The variety of museums here is so great that it is sometimes difficult to choose: from the Museum of Natural History to the Museum of Pathological Anatomy, which is located in a former psychiatric hospital, or the museum-apartment of the world-famous founder of psychoanalysis, Sigmund Freud.

Ride the historic tram

The ring route of the tram, passing the entire Vienna Ring - the road surrounding the Old Town, attracts tourists no less than the aforementioned museums. It's like a tourist bus that will take you past all the sights of the city in the shortest possible time, only better - you will pass the route on the old RingTram tram. A trip on it will undoubtedly plunge you into the past of the city. And it will not take much time - only 25 minutes - and now you are already familiar with Vienna and its pride - the Opera, the Hofburg, the City Hall building and the Danube embankment.

enjoy the music

Music and everything connected with it is another hallmark of Vienna, because many great composers were originally from Austria, and in one way or another connected their lives with the capital. Mozart, Beethoven, Strauss and many others today are the pride of this state.

In addition to visiting the Vienna Opera, there are other ways to join the beautiful. For example, visit the Museum of Music or Haus der Musik at Seilerstätte 30, where you will not only learn about the history of the invention of musical instruments, but you can also personally try to make up with an orchestra. Or you can go to one of the free concerts taking place in the major cathedrals and churches of Vienna. For example, in the Pieterskirchsee on Graben Street, classical music concerts are held every evening at 20:00.

Well, if you're lucky, then you will get to one of the local festivals, which are usually based on the main squares of the city, for example, Karlsplatz, Stephansplatz or on the square in front of the Town Hall - Rathausplatz.

Ride on the rides

Prater is the most famous amusement park in Austria, and the reason for this is not only that it is located right in the center of the capital. It houses Europe's oldest Ferris wheel, a mandatory "minimum" program for tourists visiting the park. There are many attractions here - both for children and adults. There are those from which the blood runs cold - for example, a huge catapult that throws a daredevil to a height of 110 meters. In addition to entertainment, cafes and attractions, Parterre is also a park in the original sense of the word. Moreover, it is so old that almost all the famous historical figures of Vienna liked to walk in it.

Wander around the shops and markets

Even those who are far from a love of shopping will still want to bring a piece of Vienna to their friends and family. Yes, even the same Mozart sweets, sold at every step. So why not do it in the most comfortable places in the capital? For example, the Graben street and the Kärtnerstrasse adjacent to it are the most “shopping” streets of the city. Boutiques and shops of expensive brands are located a little further - closer to Kohlmarkt. The streets branching south from the Graben are already more like typical European streets both in their width and architecture. Many souvenir stalls and authentic brands are located on the streets between Graben and Am Hof ​​square. Well, we advise you to buy groceries in the famous Viennese supermarket Meinl am Graben at the end of the street. Prices here may be higher than on the market, but you will not find such a choice and atmosphere anywhere else in Vienna.

There is one more place in Vienna where shopping lovers come - the Naschmarkt market. The old market consists of a grocery part, where, by the way, there are also a large number of inexpensive, but very cozy cafes with world cuisines, and a flea market, which is open every morning.

Ride along the Danube in river transport

Walking along the Danube river transport is another thing to indulge in on a trip. In addition, it will add some variety to the trip, if before that, for example, you only did what you walked, but went to museums and shops. At the pier near the Vorgartenstraße metro station, you can take Blue Danube steamboats, catch a river taxi or even start a river cruise to other countries. And if the weather is good, and the mood is even better, and you want adventure - feel free to rent a jet ski, kayak or a boat with oars - all this can be rented at some marinas of the city.

Sip coffee in one of the historic coffee houses

Historical cafes in Vienna are generally a separate conversation. How many celebrities of the past were regulars of these establishments - do not count, but there were almost no changes in the interior or menu of the cafe. You go into such a cafe, and immediately you feel like you have just been in a time machine. The most popular cafes among tourists are Eiles, Museum, Gersner, Sacher, Savoy and others. They are always visible from the street: an old building is required, large windows through which you can see the interior of the beginning of the last century and, of course, many, many people in the evenings. Drinking coffee with a slice of Sacher cake or strudel is a must!

Updated 03/07/2019

Wondering what to see in Vienna in 1 day? I will help you! I propose to get acquainted with the main sights of Vienna on a specially designed route. If you find yourself passing through the capital of Austria or going to Vienna from nearby European cities for 6-8 hours, then this post is for you.

I propose to start from the very heart of Vienna - Stephansplatz Square, which is easiest to get to by metro. To move around Vienna, I recommend purchasing.

If you start your route not from the railway station, but from the airport or hotel, then the starting point for you will still be Stefanplatz.

St. Stephen's Cathedral, Graben and Kohlmarkt

Rising from the subway, you will find yourself in the heart of the historical part of Vienna. Here begins our itinerary for one day in Vienna. Before you rises the bulk of one of the main symbols of the Austrian capital - St. Stephen's Cathedral.


I advise you to pay close attention to the Gothic temple - you can inspect it not only from the outside, but also from the inside.



If you're lucky, you'll hear the organ, of which there are three in the cathedral.

  1. There is an observation deck in the South Tower, which can only be reached by stairs, the height is 67 meters - 343 steps have to be overcome.
  2. An elevator will take you to the top of the North Tower. Entrance costs 6 euros.

I advise you to choose a site located in the North Tower, but not because of the presence of an elevator, but because of the best view.




Next, we head for Graben Street, but first we will walk along the Stock-im-Eisen-Platz adjacent to Stephansplatz and stop in front of the corner of one of the houses. Here is the Stock im Eisen or pole in iron.


The landmark that gave the square its name is spruce trunk with nails driven into it. It is protected from the influences of the external environment and overly curious tourists by a glass cylinder.


In the 18th century, in the Austrian Empire, there was a custom according to which blacksmiths drove a nail into a tree trunk for good luck. According to some reports, nails were driven in on this very square as early as the 15th century, that is, more than 500 years ago.

So, you ended up on Graben Street, and its main attraction is the plague column or the column of the Holy Trinity. It was erected at the end of the 17th century after a terrible plague that struck Vienna.

Then we go along the Graben street to the place of its intersection with the street Jungfernshgasse (Ungferngasse). Here I propose go to St. Peter's Church. Allegedly, the temple was founded by Charlemagne himself at the end of the 8th century. The current building of the church was erected at the beginning of the 18th century.


Graben Street is also full of shops and restaurants. Graben Street flows smoothly into Kohlmarkt Street, where the famous Demel confectionery is located (Demel, address: Kohlmarkt, 14).


Facility's signature dessert violets in sugar. Take a cup of coffee and watch the chef at work (the wall separating the hall and the kitchen is made of glass). Boutiques of such famous brands as Tiffany, Burberry and Gucci are located on the street.

Hofburg and Maria-Theresien-Platz

We continue the route through Vienna in one day. The street ends with Michaelerplatz Square and the Hofburg Palace. In him Austrian rulers lived for more than seven centuries. Under the Habsburgs, the palace received the status of an official winter residence, which housed the imperial court.


Now there are several museums in the palace, which you can visit. I recommend visiting the Sisi Museum, the Imperial Apartments and admiring the exhibits of the Silver Collection Palace Museum.

I advise museum lovers to purchase a combi-ticket, which, in addition to the three above-mentioned expositions, includes a visit to:

  • Summer residence of the Habsburg Schönbrunn (Schönbrunn Palace);
  • furniture museum (Hofmobiliendepot).

We enter the Hofburg courtyard through an archway and find ourselves on Heldenplatz. Here, in 1938, Adolf Hitler announced the Anschluss (accession) of Austria to Germany.


On the left is a monument to Prince Eugene of Savoy, on the right to Archduke Karl. After walking a little behind the monument to this commander, you can admire from afar three historical buildings at once - the parliament, the town hall and the Burgtheater. I’ll tell you how to see them closer below.

If you have time, you can take a walk in the Volksgarten park (Volksgarten). In the warm season, especially in spring, it is very beautiful and picturesque here.

Behind the Hofburg lies Maria-Theresien-Platz. In the center of the square stands a monument to Empress Maria Theresa. On both sides of it rise the buildings of the Museum of Natural History and the Museum of Art History. Their visit is possible only with a longer stay in Vienna.


Tram Tour - Opera, Parliament and City Hall

I propose to continue the route "What to see in Vienna in 1 day" by public transport. There is a Burgring tram stop near Maria Theresa Square.

You need tram number 1, going in the direction of Prater-Hauptallee. True, if you sit here, you will not be able to admire. Therefore, I suggest going down to the Kärntner Ring stop. Oper, where after getting to know the building you need to take the same tram number 1.

Briefly about the Vienna Opera- the largest opera house in Austria, built in the second half of the XIX century and completely destroyed during the Second World War. The Vienna Opera was restored in 1955.


It will take you to the famous Hundertwasser House, and on the way, without getting off the tram, you can see other equally famous buildings of Vienna - the Parliament, Burgtheater, City Hall and the University.

Briefly about Parliament- the building was built in the second half of the 19th century in the neo-Greek style, it was badly damaged during the Second World War, it was restored after it. In front of the parliament building is the famous sculptural composition of Pallas Athena with a fountain

Briefly about the town hall– the building was built in the second half of the 19th century in neo-gothic style. The offices of the burgomaster of the city and the municipality are still located here. The central tower of the town hall has a height of 105 meters.


Briefly about the Burgtheater- the court theater, established by order of Empress Maria Theresa in 1741. Previously, it was called the Royal Theater at the Palace.

Briefly about the University of Vienna- is one of the oldest in Europe (it was founded in 1365), although the modern main building was built in 1877-1884.

If you have time, you can get off at each stop for a more detailed acquaintance with the sights.

The Hundertwasser House and the Vienna Gasometers

Then the tram will go along the Danube embankment towards the most cheerful house in the city. You need the Hetzgasse stop.


A few meters from it is an unusual building - to which I dedicated a separate post.


From here, I suggest you take a walk to the Rochusgasse metro station (line U3), from where you pass four stations and get off at the Gasometer stop. At the top is another must see attraction of the Austrian capital, which I also wrote about in detail -.


After visiting the gasometers, my time in Vienna came to an end and I went to the railway station to return to Budapest. However, if you have time to spare, I recommend get to Schönbrunn.

Schönbrunn and Belvedere

The best way to get to the main summer residence of the Austrian emperors of the Habsburg dynasty is by metro - the station is called Schönbrunn (line U4).


Prater and Karlsplatz

An alternative to visiting the palace complexes can be parks where you can relax after long walks around Vienna. The most famous park in the Austrian capital- - located in the southern part of Leopoldstadt. It can be reached by underground (line U1) to Praterstern Bf. The main attraction of the park is the Riesenrad Ferris wheel, built at the end of the 19th century. It is officially recognized as the second oldest in the world.


If time is running out and you don’t want to go far from the center, take a walk along Karlsplatz and walk to (Karlskirche). Not from the center, you can get to the square by metro (lines U1, U2, U4), getting off at the Karlsplatz stop.


The 72-meter church, in front of which a fountain operates in summer, is an outstanding example Viennese Baroque. You can take the elevator up to the very dome, as well as go to the observation deck.

I am attaching a map of the route described above with all the main points (it is better to open it in a separate window). The blue line is a walking route, the red line is a tram ride.

Now you know what to see in Vienna in 1 day. On the one hand, it will be great if you have time to visit everything that is planned on this tour. But for me it's better not to have enough time. After all, then there will be a reason to return to Vienna again :).

If you are going from Vienna to Heviz, then it will come in handy.

Where to stay in Vienna for a night or more

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