Wander Freely, Plan Smartly
Picture your family stepping into a storybook city where history, art, and vibrant culture intertwine beneath a crisp September sky. Vienna is more than a destination; it’s a living tapestry of enchanting streets, majestic palaces, and lush gardens that awaken curiosity and wonder at every turn. Imagine children’s eyes lighting up as they encounter regal grandeur and playful creativity, while adults savor moments of timeless elegance and heartfelt connection. This journey invites you to wander together through a city that feels at once magical and inviting, where every corner holds a new discovery and every experience becomes a shared treasure. Over four unforgettable days, your family will move through the heartbeat of Vienna—from imperial splendor to lively parks, and from interactive museums to historic squares—each moment crafted to inspire awe and joy for travelers young and old. This is a chance to create memories that will ripple through your lives, opening minds and hearts to the beauty of history, the power of imagination, and the simple joy of exploring together. Feel the vibrant pulse of Vienna as it wraps around you like a warm embrace, promising laughter, learning, and moments that will linger long after you’ve returned home.
Kick off your family’s first day in Vienna by immersing yourselves in the regal world of , where the echoes of imperial splendor resound through grand halls and stunning frescoes. Strolling through the opulent state rooms, your children will marvel at the ornate ceilings and lavish décor that transported the Habsburg rulers into a realm of luxury. Don't miss the impressive gardens bursting with autumn colors in September, and be sure to embark on the engaging children’s audio tour designed to captivate young imaginations. Seamlessly adjacent is Tiergarten Schönbrunn, the world’s oldest zoo, where your family can encounter exotic animals ranging from towering giraffes to playful penguins. The peaceful atmosphere of the historic zoo combined with the natural habitats creates a mesmerizing experience for the entire family to enjoy amidst the crispness of early fall.
After the palace and zoo, take a leisurely U4 subway ride to the heart of Vienna’s Historic Center and wander down Kärntner Straße, a bustling pedestrian street alive with street musicians and vibrant storefronts. Feel the pulse of Vienna’s urban life while admiring the blend of gothic and baroque architecture that lines the street. This lively thoroughfare offers plenty of opportunities to indulge in souvenir shopping or grab a quick treat from a local bakery. Recalling Vienna’s famous coffeehouse culture, end your afternoon at the venerable , a truly authentic spot that dates back more than a century. Here, the children can delight in scrumptious Sachertorte or apple strudel while adults sip on expertly brewed melanges. The cozy, elegant ambience with its old-world charm invites the entire family to unwind and savor the moment, creating a warm, memorable introduction to Vienna.
Located near Schönbrunn Palace, this family-friendly hotel offers convenient access to the palace, zoo, and U4 subway, minimizing travel time and providing comfortable, spacious rooms suitable for families.
BookSchoenbrunn Palace Orchestra awaits you at the Palace Orangery where Mozart himself performed in 1786. The concert is a fine selection of masterful music by Mozart and Strauss, rounded off by vocal performances. Since the establishment of the Schoenbrunn Palace Concerts, the daily performances of the Schoenbrunn Palace Orchestra play an essential role in Vienna's cultural and musical life. At the Orangery Schoenbrunn, a place rich in tradition, the Schoenbrunn Palace Orchestra and the Schoenbrunn Palace Ensemble perform the most beautiful tunes of the classic composers Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and Johann Strauss. On selected dates, the concerts take place in the Great Gallery in Schoenbrunn, in the White-Gold Room directly in the Palace other concert halls in Vienna.
Book NowYour second day in Vienna invites your family into the heart of the city’s vibrant , a cultural playground nestled amid baroque splendor and buzzing with youthful energy. Begin with the , where your kids can dive into boundless creativity through interactive exhibits and hands-on workshops tailored specially for young minds. The playful learning environment encourages exploration and discovery, turning art and science into joyful experiences. Afterwards, venture into the to delight in Austria’s treasures of modern art; here, colorful, evocative works by Egon Schiele and Gustav Klimt come alive with engaging family guides that help demystify these masterpieces in fun and accessible ways. Between museum immersions, take time to wander and relax in the leafy , where the sweet scent of blooming September roses mingles with laughter and the gentle warmth of early autumn sunshine. This green oasis offers picnic spots and playgrounds to ensure a perfect moment of calm amidst the city buzz.
As the afternoon unfolds, allow time for spontaneous play in the ’s open courtyards where oversized chairs, cushions, and fountains invite families to unwind and absorb the lively atmosphere. Nearby cafés offer cozy spots to savor Viennese snacks and locally roasted coffee, ensuring parents can pause and recharge while the kids continue their joyful explorations. This balance between vibrant artistic engagement and playful downtime enriches your family's connection with Vienna’s creative spirit, making Day Two an unforgettable blend of education, fun, and cultural immersion.
Centrally located near MuseumsQuartier, it provides spacious family accommodations and quick walk access to cultural sites like the ZOOM Children’s Museum and Leopold Museum.
BookRE-OPENING on the 8th of December 2020! New opening hours: Wednesday–Sunday 10:00h–18:00h The Leopold Museum is a unique treasure-house of Viennese Jugendstil, the Wiener Werkstätte and Expressionism. It is the most-visited museum of the city’s hottest cultural site, the MuseumsQuartier, and it houses the most significant and largest Egon Schiele collection in the world, as well as masterworks by Secession founder Gustav Klimt. Tip: The museum’s panorama windows offer a wonderful view of central Vienna with Maria Theresa Square and the Hofburg Palace.
Book NowBegin your morning at the , a sprawling imperial residence where your family can wander through the elegantly preserved apartments and marvel at the lavish artifacts of Austrian royalty. The grandeur of crystal chandeliers and intricate furnishings creates an immersive historical setting that sparks curiosity about centuries past. For a truly captivating experience, catch a morning session or guided tour at the located within the Hofburg. Watching the Lipizzaner stallions perform their precise, balletic movements to classical music is both awe-inspiring and a gentle introduction to a centuries-old tradition that fascinates visitors of all ages. This equestrian performance feels like stepping into a living storybook, thrilling children and adults alike.
Post-palace visit, drift toward the atmospheric streets of , where baroque facades and chic boutiques offer a charming contrast to the day’s royal grandeur. Here you can pause for a light snack, sip Viennese hot chocolate, and soak in the vibrant street life infused with local musicians and artisans. The journey continues to , an interactive museum where sound and music come alive through playful exhibits designed to delight curious kids. From conducting virtual orchestras to experimenting with acoustic illusions, every corner invites exploration and creativity in the heart of Vienna. This perfect blend of history, tradition, and interactive learning makes today a magical chapter of your family’s Viennese story.
Luxurious family-friendly hotel located in the city center near Hofburg Palace, providing spacious suites, allowing easy walking access to the Spanish Riding School, Graben, Kohlmarkt, and Haus der Musik.
BookWander beyond Vienna’s Historic Center to discover its imperial treaures and hidden gems! Discover the best things to do in Vienna: St. Stephen's Cathedral, Hofburg Palace Complex, Spanish Riding School, Vienna Sate Opera, Albertina and more! HIGHLIGHTS: • Discover the best things to do in Vienna with a 5-Star Licensed Local Guide • Marvel at the beauty of St. Stephens’ Cathedral and St. Peter’s Church • Hear the true story of Sisi as you explore the Hofburg Palace Complex • Explore must-see sights: State Opera, Albertina, Spanish Riding School and more • Enjoy expert commentary with great history and fun legends at every turn This immersive walking tour of the Old Town is all you need to discover Vienna’s world heritage sites, historic palaces, iconic churches and lesser-known gems. With years of experience in leading tours in Vienna, our Expert Guides make it a fun and educational experience for solo travelers, couples and families.
Book NowEmbrace the fresh air and playful spirit of your final day in Vienna by heading to the legendary Prater Park, a massive green refuge filled with open spaces, bike paths, and whimsical attractions. Your family's adventure begins with a ride on the Wiener Riesenrad, Vienna’s iconic giant Ferris wheel. As you soar gently above the city skyline, marvel at the sweeping autumnal vistas bathed in soft September light, capturing lasting memories of the city’s blend of nature and architecture. After the aerial views, enjoy time exploring the park’s playgrounds, open lawns, and maybe indulge in traditional Austrian street snacks from one of the charming vendors scattered among the trees. The environment fosters a joyful atmosphere perfect for kids to run free and families to relax together amid nature.
Later, take a short subway trip back toward the city to revisit the interactive allure of or, for a more hands-on scientific adventure, visit the Museum of Technology. Here, children and adults alike can engage with an impressive range of exhibits demonstrating the wonders of physics, engineering, and innovation, making learning a thrilling, shared experience. The blend of open-air excitement and indoor discovery rounds out your Vienna visit with moments of wonder, laughter, and curiosity, perfectly suited to creating treasured family memories on a crisp September day.
Situated close to Prater Park and the Wiener Riesenrad, this hotel offers practical family rooms ideal for experiencing the amusement park and provides good public transport links to the Museum of Technology.
BookWiener Riesenrad - Giant Ferris Wheel is one of Vienna's most popular tourist attractions. Visitors to Vienna can look forward to a full schedule of arts and culture. Schönbrunn, St. Stephen's Cathedral, and the Lipizzaner are just as much fixtures of the must-do list in Vienna as a ride on the Vienna Giant Ferris Wheel, a landmark visible from afar on the Vienna skyline. If you haven't taken a ride on the Giant Ferris Wheel in your lifetime, and enjoyed the breathtaking views over the roofs of Vienna, you haven't really been to Vienna at all. Get ready to travel up to 212-feet (64.75 meters) while spotting some of the city's most well-known landmarks.
Book NowHelp us improve by sharing your thoughts on this travel plan