Photo by Peter Oertel on Unsplash
“Vienna is the gate to Eastern Europe.” – Niki Lauda
What’s up, backpackers? Today I’ve got a treat for you: one of the best cities in all of Western Europe.
At the heart of Vienna, Austria’s capital & cultural center, lie some of the best and most breathtaking adventures of your life.
This city has everything. I mean it’s to die for.
Why?
Because in particular, it’s got palaces, museums, horse-drawn carriage rides throughout the city’s historic roads, schnitzel and sausages - both of which will make you eat your heart out in this city -, churches & cathedrals, and even more exciting delights, many of which I will talk about in this article as - you guessed it - they’re either free, or highly inexpensive, yet 100% worth it.
Let’s explore some of the sites, museums, and activities that you can partake in on your visit to Vienna at a fraction of the cost, and while still saving some money for your other adventures.
TABLE OF CONTENTS:
1. Time Travel To Schönbrunn Palace On A Budget
Photo by Johannes Mändle on Unsplash
This was arguably one of - if not my favorite - experiences to have in Vienna.
The Schönbrunn Palace, which used to be the main summer residence of the Habsburg rulers, is 300+ years old, and was first opened in 1700.
While the palace is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most popular tourist attractions in Vienna, you don’t need to have an extravagant budget to visit it.
As a matter of fact, you can enter the palace park & gardens free of charge during opening times.
The gardens offer breathtaking views, meticulously maintained landscapes, and the famous Neptune Fountain. You can walk through the majestic Orangery Garden and the Maze & Labyrinth, both of which will surprise you with how free they are to visit considering their majesty.
For a more in-depth historical experience, opt for a combination ticket that includes a shorter tour of the palace. The Imperial Tour provides access to 22 rooms and is cheaper than the Grand Tour. Look out for discounts and free days for students or young travelers. Many of the palace's educational workshops and exhibitions, often designed for children, can also offer insightful experiences for a fraction of the price of regular tours.
Don’t miss the Gloriette, a stunning monument located on a hill in the palace gardens. I remember visiting it on a beautiful, sunny, clear-skied day, and seeing incredible panoramic views of Vienna and the palace grounds from this viewpoint.
For just 5.50 euros, you can climb to the top of the Gloriette’s terrace for an even more spectacular vista. Also, pack a picnic and enjoy it on the palace lawns, making for a budget-friendly and picturesque meal.
There’s also a cafe right next to it called Café Gloriette designed to look like an imperial summer house. Considering the touristy nature of the cafe’s location, prices are actually quite affordable.
Anyways, ticket prices to the palace can be anywhere from 20-100 euros depending on what kind of tour or combo tickets you get. I wouldn’t necessarily spend 100 euros on this experience, yet if you budget accordingly, you could easily spend up to 50 euros and gain a ton from it. Check out their website for more details.
2. A Spy in the Hofburg: Uncovering the Secrets of Sisi's Life on a Budget
Photo by Leonhard Niederwimmer on Unsplash
Another one of my favorites to visit.
The Hofburg Palace, once the imperial winter residence, is home to the Sisi Museum, dedicated to the life of Empress Elisabeth of Austria - AKA Sisi.
Known for her beauty, tragic life, and enigmatic personality, Sisi is one of the most renowned and celebrated Austrian figures; exloring her story is entirely possible without breaking your wallet.
When planning your visit to the Hofburg, consider purchasing a Sisi Ticket, which offers combined entry to the Sisi Museum, the Imperial Apartments, and the Silver Collection. Tickets like this are cost-effective, and allow you to see more of the palace for discounted prices. You can also plan your visit during off-peak hours or days when the palace is less crowded and tickets may be additionally discounted.
The museum itself is filled with personal artifacts, clothing, and portraits of Sisi, as well as tons of cool stories that are hard to believe until you read or hear about them for yourself using your audio guide. These stories provide a fascinating glimpse into her private life.
Audio guides and tours are usually included in the ticket price and are 100% worth it for the detailed narratives they provide.
Tickets are € 24.50 for adults, which is pretty cheap considering the value you get from the experience.
One thing I remember about visiting this palace is that - gorgeous as it is - there’s no air conditioning inside, so if you visit on a hot or humid - or even just a regular summer’s day - like I did, prepare for it to be very stuffy and difficult to breathe.
I recommend bringing at least one or two cold waterbottles, a spray bottle to spray yourself with and keep cool, and a battery powered fan.
3. Forklore: From Strudel to Street Food, Unveiling Vienna's Affordable Eats Like a Local
Photo by Mark König on Unsplash
All right, guys, time for my favourite part: the food.
Vienna’s culinary scene is rich and varied, and you can have everything from traditional, almost homemade style dishes to street food.
Because yes, hot dogs and street meat did indeed originate in Vienna - as a matter of fact, the term “weiner” comes from Vienna’s Austrian name, which is pronounced Wien.
And even though schnitzel originated in its next door neighbour, Germany, the schnitzel in Vienna is to die for!
Don't miss out on trying a classic Wiener Schnitzel, which you can find at many local eateries. Look for smaller, family-run establishments or neighborhood Gasthäuser, which often serve up this Viennese staple at a fraction of the price of more touristy spots. For a quick and affordable bite, visit one of the many sausage stands, or Würstelstände, scattered throughout the city. These stands offer a variety of sausages, from the classic Käsekrainer to spicy Burenwurst, usually accompanied by a generous portion of mustard and bread.
When it comes to dessert, you can’t visit Vienna without tasting its apple strudel. Many bakeries and cafés offer this treat at reasonable prices, and some even have special deals or discounts in the afternoon. Additionally, keep an eye out for café happy hours, where you might score a coffee and pastry combo for a reduced price.
And the best part? Experiencing the city's flavors doesn’t have to mean emptying your wallet. By no means.
As a matter of fact, even restaurant meals in Vienna can be extremely affordable - if you avoid the fine dining places. You can head to such diners as Wiener Wiazhaus, Hungry Guy, or Gasthaus Elsner to name a few, and satiate your appetite for extremely affordable prices.
Street food markets like Naschmarkt, where you can sample a wide variety of local and international dishes, are also a feast for the senses, as aromas from the various stalls offering affordable and delicious snacks and foods are irresistible.
So now that you’re equipped to experience some of the best advantages of Vienna at a fraction of the price, go!
It’s one of the best cities to visit in Europe.
And don’t worry, I have more Vienna tips coming to you in our next article about traveling the world and experiencing its riches without overspending.
If you want instant access to my next article when it comes out so that you’re decked out with the latest and best insights on traveling in this city, then like our Facebook, Twitter / X, and Instagram pages - for travel budget hacks around the world!
Until next time, have a happy, adventurous, safe, and resilient time traveling the world, and we’ll see you all next week!