Last Updated on April 24, 2023 by gregor
As a local who lives in Vienna, the capital of Austria, I see many tourists visiting Vienna make mistakes that could easily be avoided with a little bit of preparation. In this blog post, I’ll be sharing with you 25 common travel mistakes to avoid visiting Vienna, based on my personal experience and local knowledge.
Tourist Mistakes to avoid visiting Vienna, Austria
Not planning your visit to Vienna ahead – Make a Vienna Travel Itinerary
With so much to see and do, it’s easy to get overwhelmed and waste time trying to figure out what to do next. To avoid this, take some time before your trip to research the sites and attractions that you want to see, and create a detailed itinerary that includes travel times and any reservations that you need to make.
In addition to planning your itinerary, it’s also a good idea to purchase tickets in advance for popular attractions. This can save you time and money, as you won’t have to wait in long lines to purchase tickets on the day of your visit. Many attractions also offer skip-the-line tickets or guided tours, which can save you even more time and provide you with more information and insight into the site you’re visiting.
See Also: PLANNING A TRIP TO VIENNA! BEST VIENNA HOLIDAY ITINERARY
See Also: HOW MANY DAYS DO YOU NEED TO VISIT VIENNA?
Plan your Trip to Vienna?
- 🏨 Find the perfect accommodation on Booking.com
- 🎡 Book the Best Guided Tour on GetYourGuide
- 😍 Get more emotions from your trip with Tripadvisor
- 🚘 Rent a car on Rentalcars
- ✈️ Buy the cheapest flight tickets with WayAway
- 🚂 🚌 ✈️ Best prices for Train, Buses, Cars, Ferries, and flights Omio
Not trying Viennese cuisine
Vienna is known for its delicious cuisine, so make sure to try traditional dishes like Schnitzel, Tafelspitz, and Sachertorte.
Read more: VIENNA FOOD GUIDE – TRADITIONAL VIENNESE FOOD YOU MUST EAT IN VIENNA, AUSTRIA (UPDATE 2023)
My recommended Best Food Tours in Vienna: 15 BEST FOOD TOURS IN VIENNA, AUSTRIA – UPDATED 2023
Not buying a Vienna PASS, 1, 2, 3, or 6 Days of Sightseeing
The Vienna PASS is an all-inclusive sightseeing card that gives you the opportunity to experience the many sights of Vienna. Free admission to many attractions and unlimited hop-on hop-off bus rides.
- The Vienna PASS offers four main benefits:
- Enjoy free admission to over 70 of Vienna’s top attractions
- Take advantage of unlimited rides on hop-on hop-off bus routes
- Use your Vienna PASS Guidebook for additional guidance
- Benefit from exclusive discounts with local businesses
Check Prices and Book the Vienna PASS here:
Not visiting Vienna outside of peak season
Vienna can get very crowded during peak season, especially in the summer months. Consider visiting during the shoulder season, like spring or fall, to avoid the crowds.
Read more: WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT VIENNA, AUSTRIA
Not reserving tickets in advance – Skip the Line Tickets
Vienna is home to many popular attractions, such as the Schönbrunn Palace and the Vienna State Opera. It’s recommended to reserve tickets in advance to avoid long lines and disappointment.
Read more: VIENNA SKIP THE LINES: 6 BEST WAYS TO SKIP THE LINES IN VIENNA AND NOT WASTE TIME
Not Taking Advantage of Booking Guided Tours Online
I recommend booking Get Your Guide Guided Tours in Vienna. Book Online in advance
Not taking advantage of public transport
Vienna has an excellent public transportation system that includes buses, trams, and subways. If you plan to stay in Vienna for several days, it’s worth investing in a weekly or monthly pass, which will save you money compared to buying single tickets. You can purchase these passes at any subway station or online.
See Also: QUICK GUIDE TO CHEAP TRANSPORT IN VIENNA
Not exploring beyond the city center
Vienna has many hidden gems outside the city center, such as the vineyards in the outskirts or the colorful Hundertwasserhaus.
See Also: 11 DAY TRIP DESTINATIONS AROUND VIENNA CITY
Not respecting local customs
Viennese people value their culture and traditions, so it’s important to respect them. For example, always greet people with “Guten Tag” or “Grüß Gott,” and avoid being loud in public places.
Not dressing appropriately for the weather
Vienna has four distinct seasons, so make sure to check the weather forecast and dress accordingly. Don’t forget to bring an umbrella, as Vienna is known for its sudden rain showers.
See Also: WHAT TO WEAR WHEN VISITING VIENNA, AUSTRIA
Not bringing cash
While most places in Vienna accept credit cards, it’s always a good idea to have some cash on hand, especially for small purchases like coffee or snacks.
Not learning a few German phrases:
Although many Viennese people speak English, it’s always appreciated when visitors try to speak some German. Learn a few basic phrases like “Danke” (thank you) or “Entschuldigung” (excuse me) to show your respect for the local language and culture.
Not visiting the amazing museums & galleries
Vienna is home to many world-renowned museums, including the Kunsthistorisches Museum, the Belvedere Palace, and the Museum of Natural History. Don’t miss out on the chance to explore these cultural treasures.
See Also: THE BEST 12 MUSEUMS YOU NEED TO VISIT IN VIENNA, AUSTRIA TRAVEL GUIDE (UPDATE 2023)
Not trying the Viennese coffee
Vienna is famous for its coffee culture, so make sure to visit a traditional coffee house, like Café Central or Café Sperl, to try some delicious Viennese coffee.
Read more: VIENNESE COFFEE HOUSE CULTURE – WHY IS VIENNA FAMOUS FOR COFFEE?
Read more: BEST COFFEEHOUSES IN THE CITY CENTER OF VIENNA, AUSTRIA
Not attending a classical music concert
Vienna is also known as the “City of Music,” and there are many opportunities to attend classical music concerts or opera performances. Don’t miss out on this quintessential Viennese experience.
I highly recommend these Classical Concerts in Vienna. Check Availability and Book your Classical Music Concert here:
13 BEST CLASSICAL CONCERTS IN VIENNA 2023
Not experiencing the Christmas markets
If you’re visiting Vienna during the holiday season, make sure to visit the famous Christmas markets, like the ones at Rathausplatz or Schönbrunn Palace. You’ll find festive food, drinks, and gifts to bring back home.
Read more: VIENNA CHRISTMAS: TOP REASONS TO VISIT VIENNA IN WINTER (+ TIPS!)
Not respecting the smoking laws
In Austria, smoking is still allowed in many public places, but there are laws in place to protect non-smokers. Make sure to follow the smoking laws and respect the non-smoking areas.
Not tipping appropriately
Tipping is customary in Vienna, but the amount can vary depending on the service. It’s common to leave a 10% tip at restaurants and cafés, and round up to the nearest euro for taxis or other services.
Not bringing comfortable shoes
Vienna is a walkable city, but the cobblestone streets and hilly terrain can be tiring on your feet. Make sure to bring comfortable shoes to explore the city without discomfort.
Not visiting the local markets
. Vienna has several great markets, such as the Naschmarkt and the Karmelitermarkt, where you can buy fresh produce and snacks at affordable prices.
See Also: NASCHMARKT VIENNA GUIDE – MOST POPULAR VIENNESE FOOD MARKET
Not respecting the environment
Vienna is a city that values sustainability and environmental protection. Make sure to dispose of your waste properly, use public transport or bikes when possible, and respect green spaces.
Not taking time to relax
Vienna can be a busy and exciting city, but it’s important to take time to relax and enjoy the slower pace of life. Visit a park, take a stroll by the Danube river, or simply sit at a coffee house and people-watch. Enjoy the Viennese way of life.
See Also: BEAUTIFUL PARKS AND GARDENS IN VIENNA, AUSTRIA
See Also:BEST DAY AND HOTEL SPAS IN VIENNA – VIENNA SPA GUIDE
Not checking the opening hours
Many attractions and shops in Vienna have specific opening hours, and they may be closed on certain days of the week. Make sure to check the opening hours in advance to avoid disappointment.
See Also: WHAT TO DO IN VIENNA ON SUNDAYS
Not carrying a water bottle
Vienna has many public drinking fountains, and tap water is safe to drink. Bring a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated and reduce plastic waste.
Not visiting the Heuriger
Heuriger is a type of wine tavern that is unique to Vienna. Visit a Heuriger to try local wines and enjoy traditional food like Brettljause or Käsekrainer.
See Also: BEST HEURIGER IN VIENNA – COMPLETE GUIDE TO THE WINE TAVERNS IN VIENNA
Plan your Trip to Vienna?
- 🏨 Find the perfect accommodation on Booking.com
- 🎡 Book the Best Guided Tour on GetYourGuide
- 😍 Get more emotions from your trip with Tripadvisor
- 🚘 Rent a car on Rentalcars
- ✈️ Buy the cheapest flight tickets with WayAway
- 🚂 🚌 ✈️ Best prices for Train, Buses, Cars, Ferries, and flights Omio
Not trying the street food
Vienna has many street food vendors that offer delicious snacks like Kebap, Würstel, and Langos. Don’t be afraid to try some of these tasty treats.
See Also: ULTIMATE GUIDE TO VIENNESE SAUSAGES IN VIENNA AND WÜRSTELSTAND LOCATIONS, AUSTRIA
Not visiting the Vienna Prater & Ride the Giant Ferries Wheel
The Prater is a large park in Vienna that offers many attractions, including the iconic Ferris wheel. Don’t miss out on the chance to visit this historic amusement park.
The Riesenrad is located in the Prater, a large public park in Vienna that is home to many other attractions, including an amusement park, a zoo, and a botanical garden. The Riesenrad is open year-round, but hours vary depending on the season. The Riesenrad is one of Vienna’s most popular tourist attractions, and it is easy to see why. The giant Ferris wheel offers stunning views of the city, and it is a great place to enjoy a ride with family and friends. If you are visiting Vienna, be sure to add the Riesenrad to your list of must-see attractions! What is the entrance fee to the Riesenrad Vienna ferris wheel. approx. 13.50 euros per trip. Book your tickets here: Vienna: Skip-the-Line Giant Ferris Wheel Ride
Not using the bike-sharing system
Vienna has a bike-sharing system called Wien Mobil Rad, which allows you to rent a bike for short periods of time. Use this system to explore the city on two wheels.
Read more: BIKE RENTAL IN VIENNA – EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW – WIENMOBIL RAD (VIDEO TOUR)
Not visiting the Vienna Woods and have a Pic Nic
The Vienna Woods is a beautiful natural area that is easily accessible from the city. Take a hike or bike ride in the woods to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.
Read more: TOP 5 VIENNA PICNIC SPOTS WITH A WONDERFUL VIEW
Not visiting the Hundertwasser Village
The Hundertwasser Village is a colorful and quirky complex of apartments and shops designed by the artist Friedensreich Hundertwasser. Visit this unique attraction to see his distinctive architecture and art.
Not experiencing the Viennese nightlife
Vienna has a vibrant nightlife scene, with many bars, clubs, and music venues. Don’t miss out on the chance to experience the Viennese nightlife.
Read more: 10 OF THE BEST THINGS TO DO IN VIENNA AT NIGHT
Not taking the time to appreciate the architecture
Vienna is known for its stunning architecture, from the Baroque palaces to the Art Nouveau buildings. Take the time to appreciate the beauty of the city’s architecture and learn about its history.
Read more: THE VIENNESE MODERNISM – TOP THINGS TO KNOW AND TO DO IN VIENNA
Not Bringing Comfortable Shoes
Vienna is a city that requires a lot of walking, and if you’re not prepared with comfortable shoes, you’re going to have a hard time. Make sure to pack a pair of comfortable walking shoes to avoid any blisters or sore feet.
Not Booking Accommodations in Advance
Vienna is a popular tourist destination, especially during the summer months. If you don’t book your accommodations in advance, you could end up paying a lot more or not finding a place to stay at all.
Not Planning Ahead for Vienna’s Public Transportation
Vienna has an excellent public transportation system, including buses, trams, and the U-Bahn (subway). However, if you don’t plan ahead, you could end up spending more money on tickets than you need to.
Not Visiting the City’s Free Museums
Vienna is home to many museums, including the Schubert Museum and the Museums in Vienna. The first Sunday of every month is free for all visitors, and there are many other things to do in Vienna, such as visiting Beethoven’s birthplace or going on a budget-friendly outdoor tour of the city. Some of Austria’s best museums are also located here, so if you’re interested in classical music or art history, Vienna is a great place to visit.
Read more: VIENNA – TOP FREE MUSEUMS AND THEATERS TO DO ON A BUDGET
Not Taking Advantage of Walking Tours
Vienna is a very walkable city, and many of its top attractions are located within walking distance of each other. To make the most of your walking tours, consider downloading a map or using a GPS app to guide you to your destinations.
Vienna has a number of walking tours that can give you a great introduction to the city. Make sure to take advantage of them to learn more about Vienna’s history and culture.
See Also: BEST FREE WALKING TOUR VIDEOS OF VIENNA – (+VIDEO TOUR GUIDES)
Not Visiting the Naschmarkt – Vienna’s most famous Food Market
The Naschmarkt is a bustling market in Vienna where you can find everything from fresh produce to vintage clothing. It’s a great place to grab a bite to eat and do some shopping.
See Also: NASCHMARKT VIENNA GUIDE – MOST POPULAR VIENNESE FOOD MARKET
Not Visiting the Belvedere Palace & Belvedere Museums
The Belvedere Palace is one of Vienna’s most iconic landmarks, and it’s definitely worth a visit. Make sure to explore the palace’s beautiful gardens and see Gustav Klimt’s famous painting, The Kiss.
Read more: VIENNA BELVEDERE PALACES AND BELVEDERE MUSEUMS, ULTIMATE VISITOR GUIDE
Not Planning for a Visit to Schönbrunn Palace
Schönbrunn Palace is a must-see attraction in Vienna, and it can take a full day to explore. Make sure to plan ahead and give yourself enough time to see everything, including the palace’s beautiful gardens.
Read more: A QUICK TRAVEL GUIDE TO VIENNA’S SCHÖNBRUNN PALACE, VIENNA AUSTRIA
Not Checking the Opening Hours of Attractions
Many attractions in Vienna have limited opening hours, so make sure to check in advance before you plan your visit. You don’t want to show up and find out that the attraction is closed for the day.
See Also: WHAT TO DO IN VIENNA ON SUNDAYS
Not Buying Typical Viennese Products
Read more: WHAT TO BUY IN VIENNA: BEST 15 SOUVENIRS FROM VIENNA
Not Visiting the Vienna State Opera
The Vienna State Opera is one of the most famous opera houses in the world, and it’s definitely worth a visit. Be sure to check the schedule in advance and book your tour or tickets
Read more: OPERA IN VIENNA – THE VIENNA OPERA HOUSES, TIPS, TICKETS
See also these related Articles about visiting Vienna
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WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT VIENNA, AUSTRIA
HOW MANY DAYS DO YOU NEED TO VISIT VIENNA?
ONE DAY IN VIENNA I THE PERFECT 1 DAY ITINERARY
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4 DAYS IN VIENNA – BEST VIENNA TRAVEL ITINERARY
TOP THINGS VIENNA IS FAMOUS AND KNOWN FOR
THE BEST 12 MUSEUMS YOU NEED TO VISIT IN VIENNA, AUSTRIA TRAVEL GUIDE (UPDATE 2022)
VIENNA – BEST THINGS TO DO IN SUMMER
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THE BEST THINGS TO DO IN VIENNA WITH KIDS – FAMILY HOLIDAYS IN AUSTRIA
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BEST WAYS TO GET FROM VIENNA AIRPORT TO THE CITY CENTER
TOP 5 VIENNA PICNIC SPOTS WITH A WONDERFUL VIEW
VIENNA ULTIMATE TOP 50 BUCKET LIST – THINGS TO DO
Plan your Trip to Vienna?
- 🏨 Find the perfect accommodation on Booking.com
- 🎡 Book the Best Guided Tour on GetYourGuide
- 😍 Get more emotions from your trip with Tripadvisor
- 🚘 Rent a car on Rentalcars
- ✈️ Buy the cheapest flight tickets with WayAway
- 🚂 🚌 ✈️ Best prices for Train, Buses, Cars, Ferries, and flights Omio