Nestled in the heart of Europe, Vienna is an enchanting imperial city. These facts make the destination ideal for a quick European city break or honeymoon. If you’re tempted to go, we’ve narrowed down the most romantic things to do in Vienna Austria to ensure a great trip!
Why consider Vienna for couples on a romantic trip?
Located on the eastern banks of the Danube River, Vienna is one of Europe’s most exquisite, romantic, and quite frankly fancy destinations. It’s a bonus that there’s so much to do in Vienna.
The city is a wonderful combination of old and new, full of imperial structures and opulent palaces. It almost resembles a romantic painting or storybook and some of the palaces are truly spectacular. If you enjoy art, culture, and history, you’ll love spending time in Vienna.
But, it’s not just about the buildings (although they do play a pretty large part in the things to do here). Vienna also has Michelin-star restaurants, fantastic wineries, and friendly local markets.
In the summer months, you’ll find tourists and locals drinking at the outdoor bars. During the holiday season, you’ll find some of the most spectacular Christmas markets in Europe. In the spring and autumn beautiful flowers or orange and red foliage make the scenery truly special.
So, if you’re planning a romantic trip in Europe, couldn’t have picked a better spot. Here are the 12 best places to visit in Vienna for couples.
12 Romantic Things to Do in Vienna Austria
1. Visit the Hofburg Palace.
No romantic trip to Vienna is complete without a visit to the Hofburg Palace. This architectural marvel and a key landmark in the city and is one of the best places to visit in Vienna.
It was once the winter residence of the Austria-Hungarian royalty (you can imagine just from this how impressive it was!). Additionally, it features beautiful Baroque architecture and style and is both a classic and historical place to visit.
The palace’s history dates back to the 13th century. Therefore, over the years, it’s undergone many adjustments and extensions. Now, you’ll find a Museum, Imperial Apartments, and a stunning collection of stately silverware.
If you want to visit, you and your partner should book tickets in advance. Entry is currently €17.50 per adult.
Vienna is one of the best places to visit for couples in the world, especially during a honeymoon.
2. Explore Vienna’s Christmas markets.
I wasn’t lying when I said that Vienna was spectacular at Christmas. The city is a wonderful place to visit during the festive season, especially with your other half.
The city center holds one of the largest Christmas markets in Europe, attracting over 3 million people every year. The decorations are beautiful, the food is delicious, and the atmosphere is magical with Christmas spirit.
You and your partner can walk around the stalls, eating all the delicious festive food, and drinking spiced wine. You’ll find a range of delicacies including Vienna’s traditional wiener schnitzel, sachertorte, and other sweet treats, and traditional German foods like bratwurst.
The stalls also sell a collection of unique gifts, souvenirs, and fantastic handmade crafts like ornaments, candles, and soaps. If you need Christmas gift ideas, this is the location for you.
It’s a great place to do a bit of Christmas shopping, soak in the scenery, and really embrace winter.
Christmas markets are one of the best places to visit in Vienna Austria.
3. Watch a performance at the Vienna State Opera.
As one of Europe’s most awe-inspiring opera houses, visiting the Vienna State Opera is one of the most romantic things to do in Vienna. Plus, you can watch all sorts of performances here. From ballet to theatre to opera.
But, beyond the performances, the architecture itself speaks volumes. You’ll find a Neo-renaissance exterior with arched windows and the traditional bright green roofs seen all across Europe.
The inside is possibly more beautiful. The plush red chairs stand out against the gold ornamental decoration. As a result, it’s very impressive.
If a performance isn’t your thing, you can also simply go on a tour of the opera house. They offer 40-minute guided tours which will explain a lot of the history of the building. Be sure to book tickets in advance though, to ensure they don’t sell out.
Looking for places to see in Vienna in 2 days? Put the opera house on your itinerary.
4. Wander around Naschmarkt.
So, if you and your new spouse love authentic experiences when you travel but aren’t a huge fan of the crowds that come with Christmas markets, you’ll love a trip to Naschmarkt.
The market is located in the center of the city. Additionally, it’s one of the best things to do in Vienna if you want to see the culture.
Wander the stalls and sample the local cuisine. Once again you’ll find plenty of sweet treats and schnitzels here along with fresh produce, fruits and vegetables, meats and cheese, and juices.
Love flea markets and endless yard sales? You and your partner will also find furniture, statues, unique clothing, honey and jams, and plenty of other interesting things to purchase.
If you and your other half love getting stuck into the local life, Naschmarkt can give you a taste of what it’s like to live in Vienna.
Stretching 1.5 miles along Wienzeile Street, Naschmarkt offers a wonderful opportunity for couples (or everyone to be honest). Make sure you explore the baked goods stall – they are by far my favorite.
Naschmarkt is one of the top places to visit in Vienna Austria for newlyweds who want a taste of local life.
5. Admire St. Stephen’s Cathedral.
St. Stephen’s Cathedral is one of Vienna’s most beautiful buildings. Located on Stephansplatz, St Stephen’s Cathedral is not only the most significant church in Vienna but also all of Austria. Plus, it contains the second-largest free-swinging chimed church bell in Europe.
The cathedral’s exterior is magnificent. It features multi-colored tiles of greens, yellows, and blues covering its roof, tall spires, and detailed carvings. In fact, its spire is just as impressive as the roof reaching a staggering 136 meters into Vienna’s skyline.
The inside is also pretty fabulous with gorgeous stained glass windows, 18 alters, numerous tombs and catacombs, and several chapels. A wonderful example of Romanesque and Gothic architecture, St Stephen’s Cathedral should definitely appear on a Vienna for couples itinerary.
Of all the places to visit in Vienna Austria, don’t miss St. Stephen’s Cathedral.
6. Visit the animals at Schönbrunn Zoo.
I absolutely adore a zoo day trip. In fact, it’s one of my favorite activities, especially when I’m with my fiancé. Going to the zoo is a wonderful date idea and what better way to do it than to visit the oldest zoo in Europe? Within the Schönbrunn Palace, Vienna’s zoo is a fantastic place to visit with your other half.
Founded in 1752, it’s not like a normal zoo. As well as being an incredibly historical site, it also contributes to the ethical approach to animal care and conservation.
It spans over 17 hectares and is home to a diverse array of animals including rare and endangered species. The zoo focuses on protecting the animals, providing natural and spacious habitats, and actively participates in breeding programs for endangered species, helping with global conservation efforts.
When you visit the zoo, you can witness animal feedings, educational talks, and guided tours. The beautiful background of the Schönbrunn Palace behind it adds to the charming atmosphere.
While at Koalas at Schönbrunn Zoo on a date, be sure to visit the koalas and other animals.
7. See ‘The Kiss’ at the Upper Belvedere Palace.
Arguably one of the most famous paintings in Europe, The Kiss is located in the Belvedere Palace. Easily one of the best places for couples to visit in Vienna, it was created by the skilled painter Gustav Klimt.
You’ll find the painting within the upper galleries of the Belvedere which is also home to many magnificent artworks. The painting creates a mesmerizing mosaic effect, portraying a couple entwined in an embrace in a meadow of flowers.
For those eager to delve deeper into the painting’s history there are also private tours available that will teach you about the history and hidden meaning of the work of art. What better to put on your Vienna honeymoon itinerary than seeing a romantic painting?
A trip to Vienna for couples on a romantic getaway should definitely include a famous work of art.
8. Go boating on the Danube.
If you love exploring the outdoors with your other half, the Danube River is one of the most romantic spots for couples to see in Vienna. If you’re the active type, you could hire a boat or a paddle boat, and go out on the river yourself. However, there are also plenty of tours available.
These range from simple daytime tours with commentary to intimate dinner tours under the moonlight with champagne. So romantic! There’s something super peaceful about viewing any city from the water.
So, I’m pretty confident that you’ll love a day out on the Danube with your new husband or wife.
One of the best places to visit in Vienna Austria for couples is the Danube River.
9. Swim in Vienna’s outdoor pools.
An often-overlooked gem in Vienna is the city’s outdoor pools. Typically open between mid-May and September, these pools offer a great place for a wild swim. There are several pools across the city.
The Schönbrunner has a charmingly restored open-air pool, for those who love panoramic city views, the Krapfenwaldl Pool, nestled on the edge of the Vienna Woods, is a stunning alternative.
If the idea of chlorine-filled waters doesn’t appeal to you and you’d rather have a more natural experience, Danube Island offers a slice of beachy paradise. While it may not be as stunning as many of the beaches in Europe, the island boasts lesser-known yet fresh-water beaches. It’s the perfect backdrop for a day of sun-soaked fun.
Once you’ve had your fill of sandy pleasures, head to one of the island’s fresh seafood restaurants for a delightful dinner. Undoubtedly, this is one of the most romantic and delightful things to do in Vienna.
Visit one of Vienna’s many outdoor pools with your partner while you’re in town.
10. Ride Vienna’s famous Ferris wheel.
You really can’t beat a day out at the fair with your new spouse. For a fun day out in Vienna, head to the Prater Amusement Park and ride the city’s famous wheel.
Built in 1897, this wheel is to Vienna what the London Eye is to London. It’s one of the city’s more iconic landmarks and, as well as being a historical gem, it also offers unparalleled views over Vienna.
Entrance to the park is free but you have to pay for each attraction individually. The wheel is also included in the Vienna City Card though, so if you have this, you can access the attraction for free. Plus, it’ll give you entry to many of Vienna’s other top attractions.
Once you’ve admired the views over the city from the wonderful wheel, I highly recommend exploring the rest of Prater Amusement Park. You can ride the bumper cars, go on the helter-skelter, embrace the thrill of rickety roller coasters, or even ride a nostalgic steam train through the park.
Grab a stick of candy floss and embrace your inner child – it’s the perfect way to spend a day with your other half in Vienna.
Get a beautiful view of Vienna by taking a Ferris wheel ride on your honeymoon.
11. Visit an Austrian winery.
The complete opposite of embracing your inner child, if you fancy embracing the culture of Vienna instead, going to an Austrian winery is a great way to do it.
Did you know that Vienna boasts a staggering 700 hectares of vineyards? It’s a testament to how much Austria knows in the realm of fine wines. Going on a wine-tasting experience to one of Vienna’s premier wineries is one of the most romantic activities in the city.
Weingut Cobenzl is one of the most exceptional wine-tasting tours in the area. Esterházykeller is another option. This charming tavern in the heart of the city is renowned for its exceptional wine selection.
Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or simply enjoy a good drink, a wine tasting in Vienna is fantastic. Just ensure you’ve figured out the tram route back to your hotel before you start drinking.
If you’re a couple that loves wine, be sure to visit the wineries in and around Vienna.
12. See a panoramic view at the Donauturm Tower.
There’s no better way to finish exploring a city than to see the sunrise from a panoramic viewpoint. The Donauturm Tower offers precisely that experience — provided you time your visit just right.
The tallest structure in Austria, and among the world’s 75 tallest buildings, the Donauturm Tower soars to an impressive height of 252 meters. Dominating the relatively low Vienna skyline, the tower provides a unique vantage point, offering a fantastic way to view the city. It’s easily one of the best places to visit in Vienna for couples.
If you really want to increase the romance here, you can actually book a table at one of the tower’s two revolving restaurants. Sipping champagne against the backdrop of the sunset is bound to elevate your day to new heights—pun entirely intended.
One of the most romantic things to do in Vienna Austria is to see a panoramic view from the top of a tower.
Save our romantic things to do in Vienna Austria!
Vienna is one of the most romantic cities in Europe and one of the most beautiful and culturally rich places to visit. If you’re traveling around Europe with your significant other, you truly can’t miss Vienna.
If you love art, history, food, scenery, and markets, the Austrian capital is a fantastic city break. Plus, it’s within easy reach of many of the other gorgeous places in Austria like Hallstatt and Salzburg. You could even cross the border into Slovakia if you wanted to.
All in all, if you’re planning on a couple’s city trip in Europe, I hope these 12 places to visit in Vienna for couples have inspired you to visit this gorgeous city.
