From Empire to Cathedral: Vienna Old Town Walking Tour

What's Included

Meeting and pickup

Itinerary

• Votivkirche (Pass by)

  Begin your tour at Votivkirche, one of Vienna’s most striking neo-Gothic churches. The church was consecrated in 1879 and built on the site of an assassination attempt on Emperor Franz Joseph in 1853. After the emperor survived the attack, his brother Archduke Maximilian initiated a fundraising campaign to construct the church as a thanksgiving offering to God. The building is made from white sandstone and is known for its elegant twin spires and richly decorated interior. One of the most impressive features is the high altar, along with beautiful stained glass windows and intricate Gothic architectural details.

  Admission ticket free
• (Pass by)

  Next, continue to Vienna’s City Hall, located on the large square known as Rathausplatz. Designed by architect Friedrich von Schmidt and built between 1872 and 1883, the building is an excellent example of neo-Gothic civic architecture. The façade features five towers, with the central tower rising to about 98 meters in height. At the top stands the famous Rathausmann statue, which has become one of the symbols of Vienna. Today, the building serves as the seat of the city government and the surrounding square hosts many public events, markets, and festivals throughout the year.

  Admission ticket free
• (Pass by)

  Just across from the City Hall is Rathauspark, a green space created during the development of Vienna’s Ringstrasse boulevard in the late 19th century. The park was designed by landscape architect Rudolf Siebeck under the direction of Emperor Franz Joseph and was built on what was previously a military parade ground. Today it offers pleasant walking paths, statues, and a variety of interesting trees and plants. Among them are a Japanese umbrella tree and an old Ginkgo biloba tree, making the park a peaceful spot in the middle of the city.

  Admission ticket free
• The Hofburg (Pass by)

  Continue your walk toward the Hofburg, the vast imperial palace complex that served as the main residence of the Habsburg dynasty for more than six centuries. Construction of the palace began in the 13th century and it was expanded many times by different rulers, resulting in a mixture of architectural styles. Today the Hofburg houses several museums, the Spanish Riding School, and the official residence of the President of Austria. As you explore the complex, look for the impressive Schweizertor, or Swiss Gate, which features the insignia of Emperor Ferdinand I and marks one of the entrances to the oldest part of the palace.

  Admission ticket free
• St. Stephen's Cathedral (Pass by)

  From the Hofburg, make your way through the historic streets to St. Stephen’s Cathedral, the most famous landmark in Vienna. Often called Stephansdom by locals, the cathedral has stood at the heart of the city since the 12th century. Its Gothic architecture is particularly striking, especially the tall South Tower and the colorful tiled roof decorated with imperial symbols. Inside, visitors can admire the grand nave, beautiful altars, and numerous works of art that reflect centuries of religious and cultural history.

  Admission ticket free
• Peterskirche (Pass by)

  End your tour at Peterskirche, or St. Peter’s Church, one of the finest examples of Baroque architecture in Vienna. Built in the early 18th century, the church stands on one of the oldest Christian sites in the city, traditionally believed to date back to Roman times. Although the exterior is relatively compact, the interior is richly decorated with marble, gold details, and elaborate sculptures. The highlight is the oval dome covered with colorful frescoes, along with the ornate Baroque pulpit and impressive organ that contribute to the church’s grand atmosphere.

  Admission ticket free

Additional info

• Wheelchair accessible
• Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
• Service animals allowed
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
• Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

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