Historic Centre of Vienna
Date of Inscription: 2001
Selection Criteria: (i) to represent a masterpiece of human creative genius;
(ii) to exhibit an important interchange of human values, over a span of time or within a cultural area of the world, on developments in architecture or technology, monumental arts, town-planning or landscape design;
(iv) to be an outstanding example of a type of building, architectural or technological ensemble or landscape which illustrates (a) significant stage(s) in human history
(vi) to be directly or tangibly associated with events or living traditions, with ideas, or with beliefs, with artistic and literary works of outstanding universal significance
Overview: The Historic Centre of Vienna is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is home to numerous historic landmarks and cultural attractions. From imperial palaces to medieval cathedrals, Vienna's rich history is on full display in the city centre.
Prominent Features:
Entry Fees: Entry fees vary depending on the attraction.
Fun Fact: Vienna is home to over 800 street pianos, which are free for anyone to play. The pianos are part of an initiative called "Play Me, I'm Yours," which aims to bring music to the streets and foster a sense of community through shared experiences. Visitors to Vienna can stumble upon these pianos in unexpected places, from parks to train stations, and may even catch a talented local musician playing a tune.
How to Reach It: Vienna is easily accessible by plane, train, and car. The city's international airport is located just outside the city limits, with frequent flights to and from major cities around the world. Vienna is also well-connected by rail to other major cities in Europe, with several train stations serving different parts of the city. Public transportation within Vienna is efficient and affordable, with an extensive network of trams, buses, and metro lines.
Where to Stay: Vienna has a wide range of accommodation options to suit all budgets, from luxury hotels to hostels and apartments. The city centre is a popular area to stay, with many hotels located within walking distance of major landmarks and attractions. The neighbourhoods of Leopoldstadt and Neubau are also good options, with a mix of trendy cafes, bars, and restaurants.
Selection Criteria: (i) to represent a masterpiece of human creative genius;
(ii) to exhibit an important interchange of human values, over a span of time or within a cultural area of the world, on developments in architecture or technology, monumental arts, town-planning or landscape design;
(iv) to be an outstanding example of a type of building, architectural or technological ensemble or landscape which illustrates (a) significant stage(s) in human history
(vi) to be directly or tangibly associated with events or living traditions, with ideas, or with beliefs, with artistic and literary works of outstanding universal significance
Overview: The Historic Centre of Vienna is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is home to numerous historic landmarks and cultural attractions. From imperial palaces to medieval cathedrals, Vienna's rich history is on full display in the city centre.
Prominent Features:
- The Hofburg Palace, which was the seat of power of the Habsburg dynasty for over 600 years and is now home to various museums and galleries.
- St. Stephen's Cathedral, a medieval Roman Catholic church with stunning Gothic architecture and an iconic multi-coloured roof.
- The Vienna State Opera, a stunning 19th-century opera house and one of the most renowned in the world.
- The Belvedere Palace, a Baroque palace and museum complex featuring works by Gustav Klimt and other notable artists.
- The Spanish Riding School, where visitors can watch the famous Lipizzaner horses perform.
- The Naschmarkt, a bustling open-air market with over 100 vendors selling fresh produce, spices, and specialty foods.
Entry Fees: Entry fees vary depending on the attraction.
- Hofburg Palace: The ticket prices for Hofburg Palace vary depending on which part of the palace you want to visit. The Imperial Apartments, the Sisi Museum, and the Silver Collection can all be visited with a single combined ticket, which costs €16 for adults and €12 for students and seniors. The ticket also includes admission to the Hofburg Treasury. If you want to visit the Spanish Riding School or the Imperial Palace Music Museum, you'll need to purchase separate tickets. The Spanish Riding School tickets start at €18 for standing room, while the Imperial Palace Music Museum tickets cost €10 for adults and €8 for students and seniors.
- Belvedere Palace: The Belvedere Palace is split into two parts: the Upper Belvedere and the Lower Belvedere. The Upper Belvedere houses the museum's main collection, which includes works by Gustav Klimt and Egon Schiele, among others. The entry fee for the Upper Belvedere is €18 for adults and €14 for students and seniors. The Lower Belvedere houses changing exhibitions, and the entry fee is €9 for adults and €7 for students and seniors. You can also purchase combination tickets to visit both parts of the palace or to include a visit to the Palace Stables.
- The Vienna State Opera offers guided tours for a fee, while tickets to performances are sold separately. The Spanish Riding School offers guided tours and performances for a fee.
- St. Stephen's Cathedral is free to enter, but there is a fee to climb the tower for panoramic views of the city.
Fun Fact: Vienna is home to over 800 street pianos, which are free for anyone to play. The pianos are part of an initiative called "Play Me, I'm Yours," which aims to bring music to the streets and foster a sense of community through shared experiences. Visitors to Vienna can stumble upon these pianos in unexpected places, from parks to train stations, and may even catch a talented local musician playing a tune.
How to Reach It: Vienna is easily accessible by plane, train, and car. The city's international airport is located just outside the city limits, with frequent flights to and from major cities around the world. Vienna is also well-connected by rail to other major cities in Europe, with several train stations serving different parts of the city. Public transportation within Vienna is efficient and affordable, with an extensive network of trams, buses, and metro lines.
Where to Stay: Vienna has a wide range of accommodation options to suit all budgets, from luxury hotels to hostels and apartments. The city centre is a popular area to stay, with many hotels located within walking distance of major landmarks and attractions. The neighbourhoods of Leopoldstadt and Neubau are also good options, with a mix of trendy cafes, bars, and restaurants.