Vienna, the capital of Austria is renowned for its daytime tourist attractions, such as the Schönbrunn Palace and its charming coffee shops serving up exceptional brews. However, discussions about the Austrian capital often overlook evening activities. Despite this oversight, Vienna offers an excess of nightlife experiences waiting to be explored.
There are some best things to do in Vienna after dark. Fear not, as we are to provide you with recommendations, ensuring you can fill your nightly schedule with memorable activities during your visit to Vienna.
1. Visit the Vienna Opera House
Source: Vienna Unwrapped
The Vienna Opera House, also known as the Wiener Staatsoper, has been entertaining opera fans every night since 1869. It’s one of the world’s top opera houses, putting on 350 performances of 60 different types of opera each season. Night after night, talented performers take the stage with a skilled orchestra, entertaining over 1700 audience members.
Operas are performed throughout the year on specific days of the week. You can check the availability calendar on the Wiener Staatsoper’s website to plan your visit. Tickets can be bought online beforehand or on the night of the show for a reasonable price. However, they might sell out quickly if there’s high demand, so it’s best to book in advance if possible.
2. Grab Coffee in the Most Popular Coffee Shop
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Cafe Central is undeniably one of the most popular spots in Vienna for enjoying an evening coffee. Who doesn’t love sipping on a freshly brewed cup in any city? Housed in a grand mansion, Cafe Central was once frequented by intellectuals and poets, including famous names like Adolf Loos and Sigmund Freud.
Inside, the cafe offers a wide array of delicious Viennese treats, aromatic coffee specialties, and traditional dishes beloved by locals. Once you’ve placed your order, take a moment to relax and admire the cafe’s stunning architecture. It’s remarkable how well-preserved it is, dating back to 1876 and still looking as pristine as ever.
3. Whimsical Adventure at Prater Theme Park
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For a unique and thrilling experience, consider visiting Prater Theme Park, an amusement park that stays open at midnight and offers a fantastic nighttime activity in Vienna. The park is packed with exhilarating roller coasters, nerve-testing rides, and a Ferris wheel that provides a stunning view of the city from above. With attractions suitable for all ages, whether you’re an adult seeking a nostalgic thrill or a child eager to persuade your parents to join in the fun, there’s something for everyone at Prater.
Be sure to plan your visit accordingly, as some rides may be closed during the low season due to lower demand. Alternatively, during peak season, the park can get quite busy as tourists and locals flock to enjoy the nighttime rides. One of the best parts about this nighttime activity in Vienna is that entry to the park is completely free; you only need to pay for the individual attractions you choose to ride.
4. Witness the Beauty of The Schönbrunn Palace at Night
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The Schönbrunn Palace, a Baroque complex, has been under the ownership of the Habsburgs since 1569. In 1642, Emperor Ferdinand II’s wife commissioned the construction of a palace on the grounds, naming it “Schönbrunn”, from which its name is derived. Over the years, the site has been meticulously preserved and has earned UNESCO World Heritage status.
If you’re keen on nighttime sightseeing in Vienna, taking a stroll through the grounds of Schönbrunn Palace offers an ideal opportunity. Take a leisurely walk around the area and admire the distinctive architecture. Even in the darkness, you’ll still be able to appreciate it, thanks to numerous ground lights illuminating the palace. Some individuals have even suggested that it’s more breathtaking at night, so it’s worth experiencing firsthand.
Locals Note: The gates to the grounds of The Schönbrunn Palace close promptly at 9 pm, so be sure not to get locked in!
5. Savor A Meal at the Top of the Danube Tower
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One of the top nighttime activities in Vienna is indulging in a delicious meal atop the Danube Tower. This iconic Viennese landmark elevates visitors 150 meters into the air, providing a breathtaking 360-degree panoramic view of the entire city. The view is truly remarkable. However, if you’re afraid of heights, this experience might not be suitable for you, as it’s not for the faint-hearted.
For those seeking an extra thrill, you can ascend an additional 20 meters to the Turm restaurant, where you can savor a variety of traditional Austrian dishes straight from the country’s cuisine, accompanied by delicious locally produced wines. Dining with such a view is an unforgettable experience.
Located in the heart of Vienna’s largest park, the Danube Park, the Danube Tower offers not only a culinary adventure but also the opportunity for a romantic stroll with your significant other after your meal.
6. Movie Night at The Film Casino
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In Vienna, you can enjoy a unique cinema experience that harks back to the charm of the 1950s. At the Film Casino, movie enthusiasts can relive the nostalgia of classic theaters while watching their favorite classical films. Originally built in 1911 as a theater, the venue has retained its old-world charm and been transformed into a cinema with a retro twist.
Upon entering the theater, visitors are greeted with vintage interior design that evokes a sense of stepping back in time. The Film Casino screens a variety of films, ranging from old classics beloved by previous generations to modern blockbusters from the United States. Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse yourself in cinematic nostalgia at the Film Casino.
7. Nightclubs in Vienna
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Vienna’s nightlife often flies under the radar, but in my opinion, it’s underrated. While it may not be as bustling as Prague, the city boasts numerous trendy clubs and bars where you can sip on a refreshing daiquiri or two. You’ll find an array of clubs spread across Vienna, ranging from venues blasting the latest techno beats to nostalgic hideouts where the DJ keeps ABBA on repeat.
Some of the best nightclubs in Vienna include; Celeste, Kaffee Alt Wien, Donau, and Flex.
Austria is also renowned for its delicious beers, and Vienna is teeming with bars offering them. Across the city, you’ll discover fantastic spots to savor a refreshing pint. Some of the best places to get delicious beers are; Klenoid, Josef Cocktail Bar, Kypt, and Blaue Bar.
Locals Note: It’s important to mention that drinking in public is completely legal in Vienna. It’s quite common to see someone casually enjoying a beer outdoors without attracting any unusual attention. So, if you fancy setting up in a lovely park or in the evening and want to unwind with a beer, feel free to do so.
8. Adore The Hofburg Imperial Palace
Photo by. Jorge Urosa
A must-see attraction in Vienna at night is the Hofburg Imperial Palace. It stands as one of the largest palace complexes globally and remains a top highlight of the capital. Originally a castle dating back to the 13th century, the Hofburg Palace served as the seat of power for the Habsburg family, who ruled their empire from there. Today, it houses the office of the President of Austria.
While the Imperial Apartments, the Sisi Museum, and the Silver Collection are only accessible during the day, taking a stroll by this iconic landmark at night is a must before leaving Vienna. Doing so allows you to avoid the daytime crowds and tour groups that often obstruct the views.
9. Late Night Food at One of Vienna’s Great Restaurants
Photo by. Elina Sazonova
Indulging in culinary delights is undoubtedly one of the highlights of any city trip. Vienna’s cuisine is wonderfully diverse and can be savored at numerous establishments throughout the city. When it comes to selecting a dinner spot in Vienna, you’ll be spoiled for choice, no matter your preferences. Whether you’re craving a classic Wiener Schnitzel served at a modern tavern or longing for tender Tafelspitz at a Michelin-starred restaurant, you’ll find exactly what you’re looking for.
Once you’ve made your culinary choice, the next step is finding the perfect place to dine. Here are some recommendations:
Locals Note: Meal times in Vienna differ from those in Italy, where dining tends to be much later. While Viennese dining habits aren’t as late as those of Italians, they also don’t eat particularly early. Typically, locals dine around 7 pm. To enjoy a quieter dining experience and avoid the dinner rush, consider heading out around 9 pm.
10. Visit Hundertwasserhaus
Photo by. Stephan Ruckert
If you’re only spending one night in Vienna, don’t miss out on seeing the Hundertwasserhaus before you leave. You’ve probably come across pictures of this uniquely designed building before, but seeing it in person can still leave first-time viewers scratching their heads in wonder.
The significance of the Hundertwasserhaus lies in its unconventional design. It’s simply an apartment block created by the artist Friendensreich Hundertwasser. What draws most people’s attention are the vibrant colors splashed across the building, chosen by its residents themselves. Interestingly, many of the occupants are artists and intellectuals, adding to the legacy left behind by Hudertwasser.
Locals Note: While the interiors of the apartment blocks are not accessible to the public due to being private residences, you can still admire their exterior. Since this area tends to get crowded with tourists during the daytime, it’s a good idea to visit in the evening when it’s quieter and more serene.