From a long-time resident and Vienna aficionado, this is our list of what to skip in Vienna. Written just before the Christmas market crowds hit the city, the list can be used in any season.
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As locals and residents of Vienna since 2008, we have a plethora of resources to support you in spending an amazing time in Vienna. Here are some of them:
our full neighborhood guide on WHERE TO STAY IN VIENNA
our list of activities for AUTUMN IN VIENNA
our 3 DAYS IN VIENNA ITINERARY
our autumn in Vienna best kept secret – 1 SUNDAY IN VIENNA ITINERARY
our curated list of the BEST SIGHTSEEING TOURS OF VIENNA
It is early November in Vienna. The city is still wrapped in a soft, moody light as autumn’s last golden leaves cling to the trees, slowly giving way to the bare branches of winter. For the past three days, the cool air has been carrying a crispness that hints at the season’s shift, with the scent of roasted chestnuts wafting from street vendors on nearly every corner.
There’s a growing restlessness and anticipation in the city as workers set up lights and stalls for the famous Christmas markets. Their soon-to-be twinkling stands promise cozy evenings of mulled wine, handmade crafts, and festive cheer.
Having found myself in this season of no man’s land, when it’s too cool and dark for autumn in Vienna but too early for winter activities – mind you, it only lasts a couple of days – I decided to go ahead and be done with our Christmas gift shopping and clear our family calendar of all activities that would prevent us from enjoying the pre-Christmas period in Vienna.
I don’t know if it is the shorter days or the multitude of social conventions that pile up towards the end of the year that make this period the most hectic of all. For this reason, I always start by unplanning as much as possible before I plan the activities that we would enjoy the most.
But I diverge ….. so here I am, on the way to be done with Christmas gift shopping when it strikes me that the city feels more crowded than usual. In expectation of the Christmas season, the number of visitors in Vienna increases – and as I am already in a reductionist mindset, I have the topic of my next blog post ready – what to skip in Vienna to save time and enjoy the city to the fullest.
Without further ado, let’s jump right into it. Here are some well-known Vienna attractions that might be worth skipping, and suggestions for more enjoyable alternatives to help you make the most of your time in the city.
What to skip in Vienna – Café Sacher and the Sacher Torte
Café Sacher is often top-of-mind for travelers because of its famous Sacher Torte, a chocolate cake created here in the 1800s. While the history is interesting, the experience may not match the anticipation. Not only are there often long waits, but the cake itself, though delicious, can be a letdown for some, with many finding it a bit dry or underwhelming. Definitely not our favorite cake in Vienna, but if you really must, you can get it anywhere else in the city. I promise it will taste the same.
Sacher Café and Sacher Torte – try instead
For a more authentic and varied coffeehouse experience, head to Café Heiner, Oberlaa Konditorei, or Gerstner K. u. K. Hofzuckerbäckerei. Each of these coffee houses serves traditional Austrian pastries in a more relaxed setting. Oberlaa has a wonderful selection of cakes and chocolates and is known for its delicate fruit-based tortes. Gerstner, located near the Opera House, offers a truly Viennese experience in a grand historical space with luxurious interiors and delicious treats. Whereas my personal favorite, Heiner offers the peace of a well-enough-kept secret.
What to skip in Vienna – the lines at Café Central
Café Central is an iconic landmark of Vienna. Established in 1876, it quickly became a hub for Vienna’s intellectual elite, artists, writers, and political figures. During its golden era, it attracted thinkers like Sigmund Freud, writer Stefan Zweig, and even revolutionary figures such as Leon Trotsky, making it a legendary gathering place for lively debates and cultural exchange. Café Central embodies the spirit of Vienna’s coffeehouse tradition, where people linger over coffee and pastries, immersing themselves in conversation, literature, and ideas. Today, it retains much of its 19th-century charm, offering visitors a chance to step back into a world of Viennese grandeur.
We love this coffee house and if there is one piece of beef that I have to pick with Instagram, it is the increasingly long queues in front of Café Central. Believe it or not, 10 years ago it was possible to just walk in and you would get a table within minutes most of the time.
While the café’s interior is breathtaking, the long lines can turn an enjoyable experience into a frustrating one. Without a reservation, you might find yourself waiting for hours for a table. Therefore, our tip here is to either make a reservation, visit later at night, or try an alternative (see below).
Café Central – try instead
Luckily, the well-established Viennese coffee house tradition ensures the presence of similarly charming coffee houses that are less frequented. Café Sperl, for example, offers an old-world atmosphere with fewer crowds. Its beautiful chandeliers and cozy wooden booths are steeped in history, making it a fantastic spot to enjoy a Melange coffee. Café Landtmann is another superb option—it’s been around since 1873 and retains a traditional charm while offering a quieter experience. Café Prückel, with its retro 1950s design, also has a loyal local following and is conveniently located near the Ringstrasse, making it an ideal pit stop on a city stroll.
What to skip in Vienna – the Figlmüller schnitzel
Figlmüller is famous for serving the original schnitzel in Vienna. While it’s certainly an impressive sight, the hype around Figlmüller means it’s often packed with tourists. Many feel that Figlmüller’s schnitzels—though large—don’t fully embody the traditional Viennese flavors.
Figlmüller schnitzel – try instead
For a cozier and more authentic schnitzel experience, venture out to the 19th District and try one of the traditional Heuriger wine taverns, which serve hearty, home-cooked Austrian food alongside local wines. The Heuriger ambiance gives you a rustic, local experience far removed from the bustling tourist scene. High-end heuriger such as Figls (yes, related to the Figlmüller in the center) or Pfarrwirt are definitely worth the ride from the city center.
Alternatively, Plachutta is a fantastic choice for trying classic Viennese dishes like Tafelspitz (boiled beef), and their schnitzel is equally popular. Though it’s a bit upscale, the food is worth the experience, especially if you want something that captures the essence of Viennese cuisine.
For an authentic experience in the city center, head to Zwölf Apostelkeller. This is a traditional Viennese wine cellar dating back to the Middle Ages, where guests can enjoy authentic Austrian wines and hearty dishes in a cozy, underground setting. The cellar often features traditional folk tunes played by local musicians, making it a perfect spot to enjoy regional wines and immerse yourself in Viennese culture in a unique medieval setting.
What to skip in Vienna – the Naschmarkt
The Naschmarkt is Vienna’s most famous open-air market and has been around since the 16th century. Adding it to a list of what to skip in Vienna is controversial to say the least, as we ourselves enjoy it once in a while. However, its popularity has led to crowds, inflated prices, and, in some cases, less-than-unique offerings that can feel more touristy than authentic. Additionally, the produce on offer is not always fresh which can lead to a disappointing shopping experience.
The Naschmarkt – try instead
For a more genuine market experience, head to Karmelitermarkt in the 2nd District or Brunnenmarkt in the 16th District. As it is a Viennese tradition to enjoy brunch during a weekend visit to the market, both locations offer a plethora of outstanding brunch venues.
Karmelitermarkt is a smaller, charming market with more focus on local goods, with fewer tourist trinkets and more authentic Austrian specialties. It’s a great place to try fresh produce, sample Austrian cheeses, and experience Vienna’s market culture at a slower pace. For brunch head to Cafemima or Tewa am Markt. A stroll through the neighborhood. on Taborstrasse towards the Augarten would be an added bonus of such an undertaking.
Brunnenmarkt, known for its multicultural influence, has a lively mix of Austrian and international vendors, creating a unique experience that showcases Vienna’s diversity. For a Turkish brunch head to Kent which features an all-you-can-eat buffet on weekends.
What to skip in Vienna – last-minute Opera tickets
Vienna’s State Opera House is a must-see for architecture and culture lovers. However, trying to secure last-minute tickets is often challenging, which is why most visitors resort to buying overpriced tickets from street vendors on the day of the performance.
Firstly, opera aficionados book tickets months in advance, and attending a performance just for the sake of it might not be the most memorable experience. If you’re not deeply invested in opera, a typical 3-4 hours evening performance might feel long and daunting.
Last-minute Opera tickets – try instead
If you want to experience the Opera House without the commitment of a full-length performance, consider booking a guided tour of the Opera House. Tours give you an up-close view of the stunning architecture, chandeliers, and the rich history behind the Opera House without the need for a ticket.
For a different taste of Vienna’s performing arts, consider attending a jazz concert or a musical performance. The Porgy & Bess jazz club is a popular spot that showcases the best local and international jazz talent in an intimate setting. Alternatively, Vienna offers an impressive selection of musicals, many with English subtitles, allowing you to enjoy a theatrical experience that doesn’t require you to book far in advance.
Alternatively, attending a concert in the Golden Hall of the Musikverein might prove to be a much more memorable experience. The Musikverein, often hailed as one of the world’s finest concert halls, is the heart of classical music in Vienna and home to the renowned Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra. Known for its Golden Hall’s breathtaking acoustics and opulent interior, the Musikverein offers an unparalleled setting where music lovers can experience performances by some of the greatest musicians and ensembles, making it a must-visit destination for anyone enchanted by the art of classical music.
For those who prefer concerts in unusual locations, attending a classical music concert in St. Peter’s Church, St. Stephen Cathedral, or Schonbrunn Palace might be good options.
What NOT to skip in Vienna
While some attractions in Vienna may be worth skipping, others are truly unmissable. Start with Vienna’s world-class museums, like the Kunsthistorisches Museum, the Belvedere, and the Albertina, where you’ll find masterpieces from across the centuries, including Klimt’s iconic The Kiss.
A stroll through Vienna’s impeccably maintained city parks is equally essential; spots like the Stadtpark, Burggarten, and Volksgarten offer a serene escape and showcase Viennese landscaping at its finest.
And, of course, don’t miss Schönbrunn Palace. This former imperial summer residence boasts stunning baroque architecture, beautifully manicured gardens, and panoramic views of the city from the Gloriette. Each of these experiences immerses you in Vienna’s rich cultural heritage, elegance, and natural beauty, making them must-sees for any visitor.
Vienna is brimming with experiences that capture its old-world charm, but some popular attractions can fall short, especially when they’re overcrowded. By opting for these lesser-known alternatives, you’ll not only avoid the tourist traps but also get a more intimate taste of Viennese culture and tradition. Enjoying Vienna this way allows you to take in its history, culinary delights, and vibrant arts scene without the stress of crowds or wait times.
So, skip the hype, and discover Vienna through the eyes of a local. We would love to hear if these suggestions were useful for you, so leave us a comment below or get in touch over our social media channels!