Add dates

ViennaCulture & history

Our most recommended Vienna Culture & history

Vienna: Vivaldi’s Four Seasons Concert in Karlskirche

1. Vienna: Vivaldi’s Four Seasons Concert in Karlskirche

Experience Vivaldi’s Four Seasons, a masterpiece of classical music. Visit Vienna’s Karlskirche and listen to the concertos of a string quartet and basso continuo. The performance by Orchestra 1756, a classical period instrument ensemble, makes this concert extraordinary. Enjoy a journey through time with this evening concert and experience unforgettable moments with historical sounds. The Four Seasons includes four of twelve revolutionary violin concertos that interpret each season of the year. Four sonnets are the inspiration for this masterpiece that takes you into a world of sound, with thunder and lightning, cracking ice and birdsong, a sleeping shepherd boy, hunting parties, and many other places. Program: Le quattro stagioni – The Four Seasons Spring, Op. 8 Nr. 1 Summer, Op. 8 Nr. 2 Autumn, Op. 8 Nr. 3 Winter, Op. 8 Nr. 4 One or two additional parts which are changing from week to week and could be from these composers: Works by W. A. Mozart, J. S. Bach, H. I. F Biber, and other major composers.

Vienna: Schönbrunn Palace & Gardens Skip-the-Line Tour

2. Vienna: Schönbrunn Palace & Gardens Skip-the-Line Tour

Visit the Schönbrunn Palace and Gardens and gain quick access inside this Viennese gem on a guided tour that includes skip-the-line tickets. Follow a licensed guide through lavish interiors, learn about the Habsburgs Royal Family, and explore the ornate palace gardens. Meet your guide in front of the palace and start with an informative introduction to the history of the royal compound. Receive a modern audio device so that you can always hear the tour’s live narration along the way. Benefit from priority entrance tickets and gain quick access inside the palace. Marvel at the grand entrance and begin your guided walk through 22 staterooms of the famous Austrian palace. Admire the 40-meter long Great Gallery and the Hall of Ceremonies and see how the Habsburg Dynasty lived as you stroll through lavish halls and peek into private chambers. Listen to entertaining stories about the former royals, which are infused typical Viennese humor by your local and friendly guide. Learn not only about the fascinating history of the royal family of Habsburgs and the famous Empress Sissi but also about how the palace has evolved in modern times and where the royal descendants now live. Following the tour, enjoy the opportunity to walk around the gardens at your own pace and catch a glimpse of the Gloriette, an arch on top of a hill overlooking Vienna’s forests.

Vienna: Upper Belvedere & Permanent Collection Entry Ticket

3. Vienna: Upper Belvedere & Permanent Collection Entry Ticket

The Belvedere in Vienna is one of the leading museums worldwide. Its famous art collection includes works ranging from the Middle Ages to the present day. The unique complex, with its two palaces of the Upper and Lower Belvedere and extensive gardens, is one of the most stunning Baroque architectural marvels in the world. Highlights include the world's largest collection of Gustav Klimt paintings as well as prominent works from the periods of Viennese Biedermeier, Austrian Baroque, Vienna around 1900, and French Impressionism. Now, for the first time in decades, the museum will once again host large-scale special exhibitions that you can admire on your visit. In the 18th century, the Austrian general Prince Eugene of Savoy commissioned the renowned Baroque architect Johann Lukas von Hildebrandt to build the complex. After the death of Prince Eugene, Empress Maria Theresa acquired the entire complex and transformed the Upper Belvedere into an exhibition venue for the imperial collections – making it one of the first public museums in the world. The Lower Belvedere, formerly the residence of Prince Eugene, is home to illustrious exhibitions. The Baroque gardens of the Belvedere rank among the most beautiful in the world. The main garden is situated between the Lower and the Upper Belvedere and extends over three large terraces. The Belvedere park is also home to the Botanical Garden and the oldest Alpine garden in Europe.

Vienna: Tickets for Mozarthaus Vienna with Audio Guide

4. Vienna: Tickets for Mozarthaus Vienna with Audio Guide

Mozarthaus Vienna with Audio Guide: At the Mozarthaus Vienna, visitors can explore the only Vienna apartment of Mozart’s that has been preserved, where he lived from 1784 to 1787 and composed more music than anywhere else. Around this flat, a comprehensive presentation of the times in which Mozart lived and of his most important works, spread over three exhibition levels, awaits Mozart fans, young and old, from all over the world. The exhibition is focused on the great composer’s Vienna years, which represent the peak of his creative achievement. Make sure to get a free Audioguide to discover Mozarthaus Vienna. In addition to the permanent exhibition, a special exhibition also takes place in the Mozarthaus Vienna, which changes each year and is included in the price of admission. Every Sunday an additional, 30-minute free tour of the highlights of the Mozarthaus Vienna is available (only with valid entrance tickets).  Music Combo Ticket: Mozarthaus Vienna and Haus der Musik: Together with the interactive Haus der Musik, the Mozarthaus Vienna offers the “Mozart & More” combo ticket, ideal for music fans. Embark on a journey of discovery into the world of Mozart and music. The Haus der Musik in Vienna is a modern, interactive sound museum located in the historic city center. The 6 floors of the historical palace invite visitors to try out making music themselves. The Haus der Musik combines the past, present and future of music in an inspiring and exciting way.

Vienna: Skip-the-Line Schonbrunn Palace and Gardens Tour

5. Vienna: Skip-the-Line Schonbrunn Palace and Gardens Tour

Gain exclusive access to the Schonbrunn Palace's 24 imperial rooms and listen to insightful commentary as you explore. Join a guided tour of the palace and its fabulous gardens with skip-the-line tickets and learn all about this iconic Vienna landmark. Meet your guide and take advantage of pre-booked timed tickets to walk right into the palace and begin a journey through its 24 rooms. Enjoy special access to areas such as the beautiful Lantern Room and the Hunting Room, which individual visitors cannot see. Allow your guide to point out the impressive artwork, intricate architecture, and ornate furnishings that adorn each room. Learn interesting facts about the lavish court life of the Habsburg dynasty, including Sisi and Maria Theresa. After leaving the palace interiors, venture out into the expansive gardens, home to numerous statues, fountains, and other architectural features like the Roman ruins and Gloriette.

Vienna: Classic Ensemble Vienna in St. Peter's Church Ticket

6. Vienna: Classic Ensemble Vienna in St. Peter's Church Ticket

Experience St. Peter's Church, one of the most beautiful Baroque churches in Vienna with entry tickets to the Classic Ensemble Vienna concert. Hear wonderful interpretations of works by famous composers like Mozart, Beethoven, Bach, and many more. Step inside St. Peter's Church, built from 1701 to 1733 according to plans by Lukas von Hildebrand. Let the Classic Ensemble Vienna enchant you here with an evening of classical music. Hear "Eine kleine Nachtmusik," let the music lead you through "The Four Seasons" and follow musical stories by Mozart, Bach, and Schubert. Enjoy these Classical works in the indescribable ambiance of the underground vaults of St. Peter's Church in the heart of Vienna.

Tickets for the Albertina Exhibitions

7. Tickets for the Albertina Exhibitions

In 2018 the Albertina Museum was named one of the Seven Urban Wonders of the World, located right in Vienna’s historic center. Its permanent display presents a survey of the most important artistic styles from French Impressionism, German Expressionism, Russian avant-garde and also an in-depth focus on Austrian art. The unique collection includes painting and drawings of Monet, Degas, Goncharova, Chagall and Kokoschka, just to name a few. The presentation is topped off by numerous chefs-d’oeuvre by Picasso, ranging from his early Cubist pictures to paintings from his experimental late period. Immerse yourself in imperial flair at the Albertina Museum: for around 100 years, the present-day museum building served as the residence of Habsburg archdukes and arch­duchesses. Bearing witness to this period are the 20 sumptu­ously decorated and painstakingly restored Habsburg State Rooms that sweep visitors away into the magnificent world of classicism with their precious wall coverings, chandeliers, fireplaces and stoves, distinctive marquetry and exquisite furniture in Louis-seize style originated from the royal French court workshops of Paris and Versailles. Browse through the collections on various topics such as the permanent collection, prints and drawings, architectural collection, photo collections, and various temporary exhibitions. Choose to add on a visit to the main Albertina Museum with a combo ticket for both venues.Upgrade your visit with a guided tour offered in four different languages (select the option Albertina Entry Ticket and Guided Tour). Available only in August/beginning of September.

Vienna: Leopold Museum Skip-the-Line Entry Ticket

8. Vienna: Leopold Museum Skip-the-Line Entry Ticket

Visit the magnificent Leopold Museum, a unique treasure trove of Viennese Art Nouveau, the Wiener Werkstätte, and Expressionism. Visit the Leopold Museum in MuseumsQuartier Vienna and experience the most important and largest Egon Schiele collection in the world as well as masterpieces by Secession founder Gustav Klimt. Admire the impressive artworks and embark on a journey to Fin De Siècle Vienna, when artists such as Egon Schiele, Gustav Klimt, and Oskar Kokoschka turned the world upside down and broke away from old traditions. The new creative movement began with the Vienna Secession and presented itself in Art Nouveau. They gave the old Habsburg Empire a final flourish and made Vienna one of the hottest cultural centers of the time. The Leopold Museum also houses a variety of objects created by artists of the Wiener Werkstätte - from Josef Hoffmann to Kolo Moser - which are considered unique milestones in international design history. The modern architecture of the Leopold Museum, a light-flooded cube of white shell limestone whose color is reminiscent of the bright buildings on the Ringstrasse where you can still admire Art Nouveau, stands in strong contrast to the historic ambiance of the imperial stables. The light-flooded atrium not only offers views of and into the building itself, but also impressive and unexpected views of the city of Vienna. The museum's panoramic windows offer a wonderful view of Vienna's city center with Maria-Theresien-Platz and the Hofburg.

Vienna: Classical Concert at St. Stephen's Cathedral

9. Vienna: Classical Concert at St. Stephen's Cathedral

Visit St. Stephen’s Cathedral, one of the most beautiful buildings in the Austrian capital. Whether you're a music aficionado or simply curious, you're sure to enjoy the tremendous acoustics within the cathedral walls. Choose from famous classical or Christmas shows for an elegant concert in Vienna. Admire the jewels of classical music at St. Stephen's Cathedral, where W. A. Mozart and J. Haydn once played. Listen to the great works of European composers like Mozart, Beethoven, and Bach, even during Christmas time (if option selected). Enjoy the Advent Concert with the world-famous Vienna Symphony Orchestra on December 7, 2023, a seasonal highlight. Celebrate the 225th anniversary of the composition of Haydn's The Creation with a fitting performance. Hear Mozart's famous Requiem at the All Saints Weekend and at midnight on December 4, the hour of Mozart's death. Listen to a concert on the new Giant Organ (if organ concert option selected) with mighty sounds from more than 12,000 pipes, one of the biggest organ units of Europe. Hear world-class organists play a wide-ranging program with masterful virtuosity in the central nave of the church.

Vienna: Skip-the-Line Sisi Museum, Hofburg and Gardens Tour

10. Vienna: Skip-the-Line Sisi Museum, Hofburg and Gardens Tour

No lines, no hassle as our group tour takes you inside the Sisi Museum, Imperial Apartments, courtyards and gardens of the Hofburg Imperial Palace Complex. With skip-the-line tickets and a 5-Star Licensed Guide, all guests can enjoy a high quality experience with easy-to-understand commentary in only 1 language. Discover the imperial heritage of Vienna in a nutshell! Book a 2,5-hour group tour of Hofburg Palace and Gardens with a Professional Guide. With pre-booked timed tickets, our guests can save time and skip the lines to the Sisi Museum and the Imperial Apartment at Hofburg. Inside the imperial palace, we will visit the private bedrooms, salons and offices of Emperor Franz Joseph and his wife, Elisabeth ""Sisi"" of Bavaria and see the world-famous collection of Sisi’s personal items. We will also venture out into the inner courtyards, see the buildings of the world renowned Spanish Riding School and admire the numerous statues and fountains of Heldenplatz and Burggarten. You'll be surprised how much the Hofburg Palace complex still has to offer the people of Vienna as a treasure trove of Austrian history and cultural heritage.

180 activities found
Sort by:
Page 1 of 12

Unmissable attractions

Immersive experiences

Frequently asked questions about Vienna Culture & history

What are other things to do than Culture & history that are worth visiting in Vienna?

The other unmissable things to do in Vienna are:

Other Sightseeing Options in Vienna

Want to discover all there is to do in Vienna? Click here for a full list.

What people are saying about Vienna

Overall rating

4.6 / 5

based on 6,338 reviews

We had an incredible experience with Haas & Haas, learning about the history of wine making in Vienna and sampling their wine to. Bernie was very knowledgeable and made sure the experience was fantastic. The shop itself was also brilliant for gifts/treats after the experience! Would definitely do again when in Vienna!

beautiful church, in a central location. very talented musicians. The lengh of the concert was just right, even though we didn't recognize the pieces they played

Unbelievable. Unexpected. The one of the best museums I’ve ever visited. You can spend there the whole day and worth visiting it if you’re in Vienna.

Such a fun experience and very informative! The staff were amazing and very friendly

Excellent museum with lots of interesting exhibits