7 Free Things to do in Vienna

Vienna is a city with a long and fascinating history, from its imperial past as the capital of the Austro-Hungarian Empire to its role as a hub of culture and creativity. The city is home to numerous museums, galleries, and cultural institutions, making it a great destination for history buffs and art lovers alike. The city is also home to many examples of modern architecture, including the iconic Hundertwasserhaus. Vienna has a rich musical heritage, with famous composers such as Mozart, Beethoven, and Strauss having called the city home.

Even though it’s not the cheapest destination in Europe, there are actually numerous free things to do. Here are some unique free activities that you can enjoy in Vienna. Whether you are here to spend 2 days or even  1 week you will always find some inexpensive and free options in case you are on the budget.

Where to stay in Vienna

When visiting Vienna, there are a variety of accommodations to suit every preference and budget. Staying in Innere Stadt (Inner City) puts you within walking distance of many attractions and excellent dining and shopping opportunities. Our recommendation: Mercure Wien Zentrum 4* . Leopoldstadt is known for its vibrant atmosphere and the Prater amusement park provides easy access to attractions like the Giant Ferris Wheel and the Vienna University of Economics and Business. We recommend Zoku Vienna 4*.  Wieden is a district south of the city center that offers a quieter atmosphere while still being within walking distance of major attractions. Our best pick – Hotel Attaché. For a more budget friendly option, consider Müllner Smart Hotel Wien.

Walk through the Hundertwasser Village

The Hundertwasser Village is a colorful, quirky collection of buildings designed by the artist Friedensreich Hundertwasser. It’s free to walk through the village and admire the unique architecture and design.

The Hundertwasserhaus is a residential building located within the Hundertwasser Village. The building features a colorful facade, with trees growing out of the windows and irregularly shaped balconies. You can admire the building from the outside, as it is not open to the public. There are several shops selling unique and handmade crafts, art, and souvenirs. You can browse the shops and purchase one-of-a-kind items, including jewelry, ceramics, and clothing.

The Hundertwasser Village has several courtyards and terraces, adorned with lush plants, trees, and water features. You can wander through the courtyards, enjoying the serene and peaceful atmosphere. It is located in the Landstraße district, which is home to several parks and gardens. You can take a leisurely stroll in the nearby Stadtpark or the Belvedere Gardens, enjoying the beautiful scenery and fresh air.

Visit the Central Cemetery

The Central Cemetery is a historic cemetery in Vienna that is the final resting place of many famous Austrians, including Beethoven, Schubert, and Strauss. Take a stroll through the cemetery and pay your respects to these iconic figures.

The Mozart Memorial is a popular destination for tourists, featuring a life-size statue of the famous composer, surrounded by allegorical figures. Koloman Moser and Gustav Klimt memorial is located in the old part of the cemetery and is a must-see for art and architecture enthusiasts. The Memorial for the Victims of Fascism is a sobering reminder of Austria’s turbulent history. The memorial is located in the old Jewish part of the cemetery and features a large concrete block, bearing the names of those who were murdered during the Holocaust.

The Art Nouveau Church, also known as the Karl-Borromäus-Kirche, is a stunning example of Viennese Art Nouveau architecture. The church was designed by Max Hegele and decorated by a group of artists.

Finally, the Cemetery Museum is a fascinating place to learn about the history of the Central Cemetery and Vienna’s funeral culture. The museum displays a wide range of artifacts, including old hearses, burial clothes, and religious objects.

Discover the city’s street art

Vienna’s street art scene is thriving, and there are numerous murals, graffiti, and other artworks adorning the city’s walls. Take a self-guided walking tour of the city’s street art, or join a free street art tour to learn more about the artists and their works.

• The Brunnenmarkt is one of Vienna’s largest outdoor markets, and its walls are covered in vibrant street art murals. The murals range from political statements to colorful abstract designs, and they reflect the multicultural energy of the market.
• The Hundertwasserhaus is a unique apartment complex designed by the artist Friedensreich Hundertwasser. The building’s colorful facade is adorned with intricate designs and patterns, making it one of the most popular street art attractions in Vienna.
• Ankeruhr Clock is located in the heart of Vienna’s shopping district, the Ankeruhr Clock is a beautiful Art Nouveau clock adorned with colorful mosaic tiles. The clock is also surrounded by several impressive street art murals that reflect the city’s urban culture.

• The U4 Tunnel is a popular location for street art in Vienna, with numerous murals and graffiti pieces adorning its walls. The tunnel is located near the U4 subway station and is a must-visit for any street art enthusiast.
• The Grelle Forelle club is a popular destination for nightlife in Vienna, and its walls are adorned with stunning street art murals that reflect the club’s energetic vibe. The murals feature bold, colorful designs that are sure to capture your attention.
• The Karmelitermarkt is another popular outdoor market in Vienna, and its walls are covered in stunning street art murals. The murals reflect the market’s multicultural atmosphere and feature a wide range of styles and designs.
• Stadtbahn Arch: The Stadtbahn Arch is a historic viaduct in Vienna that has been transformed into a popular street art destination. The arches and pillars of the viaduct are adorned with colorful murals and graffiti pieces that reflect the city’s urban culture.

Visit the Prater

The Prater is a large park in Vienna that is home to the famous Wiener Riesenrad Ferris wheel. While you have to pay to ride the Ferris wheel, there are plenty of free things to do in the park, including exploring the many walking trails, enjoying a picnic, or admiring the stunning views of the city.

Hauptallee is a long and wide avenue that runs through the heart of Prater, lined with tall trees and lush greenery. It is perfect for a leisurely walk or a bike ride, especially in the early morning or late afternoon. The Prater is known for its vibrant street performers, including musicians, jugglers, and acrobats. You can enjoy their performances for free while wandering through the park.

Prater Tower is a 117-meter-high observation tower located in the amusement park, offering stunning panoramic views of Vienna’s skyline. While the ride to the top is not free, you can still enjoy the views from the ground level for free.

Located inside the amusement park, the Prater Museum is a free attraction that showcases the history and evolution of Prater over the years. The museum exhibits include old amusement park rides, vintage arcade games, and historical photographs of Prater.

Go on a free wine tour

Vienna is surrounded by vineyards, and many local wineries offer free tours and tastings. Take a stroll through the vineyards, learn about the winemaking process, and sample some of the region’s finest wines.

• Wieninger Winery is located in the heart of Vienna’s wine country, and it offers free tours of its vineyards and cellars. During the tour, you’ll learn about the winemaking process and get to sample some of the winery’s award-winning wines.

• Weingut Mayer am Pfarrplatz is a historic winery that dates back to the 17th century. The winery offers free tours of its vineyards and cellars, where you can learn about the traditional winemaking methods used in the region and taste some of the winery’s delicious wines.

• Weingut Cobenzl is a beautiful winery located on the outskirts of Vienna, and it offers free guided tours of its vineyards and cellars. During the tour, you’ll learn about the history of winemaking in the region and get to sample some of the winery’s finest wines.
• Cobenzl Vineyards is one of Vienna’s most popular vineyards, and it offers free tours of its vineyards and cellars. During the tour, you’ll learn about the history of winemaking in the region and get to sample some of the vineyard’s delicious wines.
• Edlmoser Winery is a family-run winery located on the outskirts of Vienna, and it offers free tours of its vineyards and cellars. During the tour, you’ll learn about the winery’s sustainable farming practices and get to taste some of its delicious wines.

Explore the Vienna Woods

The Vienna Woods are a beautiful forested area located just outside the city. Take a hike through the woods, enjoy a picnic in one of the many parks, or visit one of the historic castles or mansions located in the area. The Vienna Woods offers a wide range of hiking trails, ranging from easy to challenging. One of the most popular hiking trails is the Wiener Höhenweg, a 120-kilometer-long trail that runs through the heart of the forest, offering stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

The Lichtenstein Castle is a charming castle located on the outskirts of Vienna Woods, famous for its picturesque architecture and stunning views of the surrounding countryside. You can visit the castle’s gardens and museum, and take a guided tour of the castle’s interior.

The Vienna Woods are home to several vineyards and wineries, producing some of the finest wines in Austria. You can visit the wineries and sample some of the delicious wines while enjoying the beautiful surroundings.

The Mayerling Memorial Chapel is located in the village of Mayerling, and it commemorates the tragic incident that took place in 1889 when Crown Prince Rudolf and his lover were found dead. The chapel and the nearby hunting lodge offer a fascinating insight into the Habsburg dynasty’s history.

Attend a free film screening

Vienna is home to several outdoor cinemas that offer free screenings of classic and contemporary films. Check local listings to find out what’s playing during your visit.

The Austrian Film Museum is a cultural institution located in Vienna, dedicated to the preservation and promotion of Austrian film culture. They often hold free screenings of classic and contemporary Austrian films, as well as international films.

Filmarchiv Austria is a film archive and museum located in Vienna, dedicated to preserving the history and heritage of Austrian cinema. They often hold free screenings of classic and contemporary Austrian films, as well as international films.

During the summer months, several parks and public spaces in Vienna host open-air film screenings, often for free. The Rathausplatz, for example, hosts an annual open-air film festival, showing a wide variety of films from around the world.

 

With so many free things to do in Vienna, you can enjoy a fun and fulfilling trip without breaking the bank. Whether you’re interested in art, nature, or history, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful city.