by Rita Zibar

Immerse Yourself in Vienna's History and Culture: Top 10 History Picks for Geeks in Vienna

updated on April 3rd, 2023
published on March 31st, 2023

Vienna, a city steeped in history and culture that has been shaped by its rich past and vibrant present . If you're a historical and cultural geek, then Vienna is the perfect destination for you.

From the grand architecture of imperial palaces and museums to the small, hidden corners of the city that are filled with stories and secrets, Vienna is a treasure trove of cultural and historical wonders just waiting to be discovered.

1. Visit the Hofburg Palace

This grand imperial palace was the residence of the Habsburg dynasty and is home to a range of museums and exhibitions, including the Sisi Museum and the Imperial Treasury.

Location of Hofburg Palace

2. Explore the Schönbrunn Palace

This opulent palace was the summer residence of the Habsburgs and is surrounded by sprawling gardens and parklands that are perfect for strolling and exploring. As this is one of the most visited sights in Europe and entrance fees are rather expensive.

Prime Tours Vienna decided to launch the very first Schönbrunn Palace Free Walking Tour in Vienna. On this Tour participants get the chance to explore the giant beautiful garden area and its astonishing history. If you want to join our Free Walking Tour inside Schönbrunn Palace Garden. Check out all the availabilities here: Free Walking Tour Vienna: Schönbrunn Palace Garden

Fun Fact: Did you know the initial it was planned to build the Palace up hill, where you find todays Gloriette? But, the construction got way too expensive. So the Habsburg Family decided to rebuild it down hill and use the Gloriette as imperial Pavilion for Breakfast, hosting guests and parties.

Location of Schönbrunn Palace

3. Take a stroll through the historic city center

Vienna's historic city center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is home to a range of architectural and cultural landmarks, including St. Stephen's Cathedral, the Vienna State Opera, and the Spanish Riding School.

4. Discover the Vienna State Library

This stunning library is home to a range of historic books and manuscripts, including the world-famous Papyrus Erzherzog Rainer.

Location of Vienna State Library

5. Join the Free Classical Walking Tour of Primetours

Experience the best Vienna has to offer with this Free Walking Tour Vienna Historical City Center! We are after all the first and highest-rated Free Walking Tour in the city .

Our local, licensed guides will show you the historical center of Vienna and its most important sights.

On our tour, you will discover the astonishing history of the city, and on the way check out the most important highlights of the city center.

Let's walk together through the streets of Vienna!

6. Visit the Freud Museum

This museum is dedicated to the life and work of Sigmund Freud, the founder of psychoanalysis, and is located in the apartment where he lived and worked for many years.

Location of Freud Museum

7. Visit the Imperial Crypt

This historic burial place is the final resting place of many members of the Habsburg dynasty, including Emperor Franz Joseph and his wife, Empress Elisabeth.

Location of Imperial Crypt

8. Join the Terrible Crimes in Vienna Tour

Discover amazing hidden stories of famous crimes that have marked the city center. Check out the Palais Bathory, home of Elizabeth Bathory, the Bloody Countess that took her relaxing baths in blood .

Visit the St. Stephen’s Cathedral, a symbol of the city that had allegedly “standard bread loaf” of Vienna, the symbol of brutal quality assurance measures in the Middle Ages.

Let's step together into the dark side of Vienna's history

9. Take a tour of the Vienna State Opera

This iconic opera house is one of the most famous in the world and offers a range of guided tours that will take you behind the scenes and give you a glimpse into the world of opera.

Location of Vienna State Opera

10. Join our tour Free Walking Tour Vienna: Hitler and the New Vienna 1900

On this tour you will discover the fascinating history of the city at its intellectual and creative peak. With us, you will experience the clash of Old and New, which makes Vienna special.

Do you dare to look into the Old and step into the New Vienna with us?

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