Explore Vienna

A personal note from us...

Vienna is a city we’ve come to love deeply, and we’re so excited to share it with you. Many of you are visiting for the first time, and we hope you’ll take a little time to wander, explore, and fall in love with this beautiful city as we have. Below are some of our favorite places — each one special in its own way.

Schönbrunn Palace Gardens

One of our favorite places to slow down and breathe. The gardens at Schönbrunn are expansive, elegant, and peaceful, perfect for a relaxed stroll. Walking these paths, it’s easy to imagine the lives once lived here. Make your way up to the Gloriette for a stunning view over Vienna — it’s well worth the walk.

Hofburg Palace & the Ringstrasse

This area feels like the heart of imperial Vienna. We love walking around the Hofburg and along the Ringstrasse, where grand buildings seem to tell stories at every turn. It’s a wonderful way to get a sense of the city’s history and scale. If you have time, enjoy the walk without a plan — Vienna reveals itself slowly and beautifully.

Stephansdom (St. Stephen’s Cathedral)

Stephansdom stands at the very center of the city, both geographically and spiritually. Stepping inside, you can feel centuries of history and quiet devotion. We recommend taking a moment to simply sit and take it all in. If you’re up for it, the view from the tower is unforgettable.

Belvedere Palace

This is one of the most romantic places in Vienna, and we think you’ll understand why the moment you arrive. The palace and gardens are stunning, and inside you’ll find Klimt’s The Kiss — a work that feels especially meaningful on a wedding trip. It’s a beautiful blend of art, architecture, and calm.

Kunsthistorisches Museum

Even if you’re not usually a museum person, this one is special. The building alone is breathtaking, and the art collection reflects centuries of European history. We suggest taking your time here — even an hour can feel enriching. Don’t forget to look up; the interiors are just as impressive as the exhibits.

Vienna State Opera and the Albertina Balcony

Music is part of Vienna’s soul, and the State Opera embodies that spirit. If you can attend a performance, it’s an experience you won’t forget. Even seeing the building from the outside is worth the visit. It reminds us how deeply art and beauty are woven into daily life here. 

If you climb up the Albertina Balcony, fans of Before Sunrise may recognize this spot, but even without the movie reference, it’s lovely. The balcony offers a charming view and makes for a great photo. We like to pause here and simply enjoy the moment. It’s a quiet reminder of how cinematic Vienna can feel.

Breakfast at Café Central

This is one of our favorite ways to start the day. Café Central is elegant yet welcoming, with a timeless atmosphere. Order a coffee, try a pastry, and enjoy lingering at the table — there’s no rush here. It’s a small but very Viennese pleasure.

Karlskirche 

Karlskirche is one of those places that surprises you when you turn the corner and see it. Its grand dome, columns, and reflecting pool create a peaceful, almost dreamlike setting. Inside, the artwork and architecture invite reflection. It’s a beautiful place to visit at any time of day.

Rathaus (Vienna City Hall)

Vienna’s Rathaus feels like something out of a storybook. Standing proudly along the Ringstrasse, it often becomes a gathering place for locals and visitors alike. Depending on the season, you might find markets or events in the square. We love seeing it lit up in the evening — it’s truly magical.

We hope these places help you feel at home in Vienna, even if only for a few days. Thank you for traveling so far to celebrate with us — it means more to us than we can say.

With love,
Jerry and Lara