Posted 14 March 2023 in Travel Wanderlust

8 beautiful photography places you should visit in Vienna

Vienna is brimming with photo opportunities because of its gorgeous imperial architecture and fascinating historical sites. The scenic valleys of the Austrian capital, dotted with great Baroque castles, opulent coffeehouses, and wonderfully planted gardens, add to the city's timeless and royal appeal. Not to forget, there are breathtaking vistas around every turn but we have collected a definitive list of sites you would not want to miss.

Here is a list of the best places in Vienna to capture great pictures.

1. Belvedere Palace Gardens

There are various spots for fantastic photographs in the gardens surrounding the Belvedere Palace. For instance, you can capture the majestic Baroque castle above, over the fountains and gardens, or across a reflecting pool. The gardens form a delightful sight to behold with their lovely layout and hedgerows.

Best time to visit: Afternoon

2. Ferstel Passage

Many people have no idea that the old centre of Vienna contains a few hidden passageways. Ferstel Passage, a stunning arcade that cuts through a cluster of medieval royal palaces, is without a doubt the most beautiful. In the passage's light-filled courtyard, the elaborate skylights and arches, as well as the traditional indoor water fountain, combine to produce a breathtaking sight.

Best time to visit: Daytime

3. Graben

Graben, a strolling walkway at the heart of Vienna, is the city's well-known street. There are several photo opportunities here ranging from views of St. Stephen's Cathedral on one end to the fountains and spectacular Plague Column on the other. Graben is even more magnificent during the holidays when gigantic chandelier-shaped lights are strung from the ceiling.

Best time to visit: Anytime, but especially around Christmas Eve

4. Michaelerplatz

Perhaps more than any other location in Vienna, Michaelerplatz epitomises the city's magnificence. The Hofburg Palace, with its brilliant white Baroque façade, is located in front of this open circular plaza. Two beautiful fountains surround the entry gate and historic horse carriages are stationed in front, completing the scene.

Best time to visit: Morning or evening

5. Karlskirche

After St. Stephen's Cathedral, Karlskirche in Vienna is the second most renowned church. It is a beautiful sight. This is due to its Baroque construction, bronzed dome, and two magnificent columns surrounding it on either side. There are several places to capture a beautiful image with a lush park and an enormous pool in front of it.

Best time to visit: Afternoon or evening

6. Vienna Rathaus

Vienna Rathaus is no exception to the notion that city halls in Europe are usually an excellent source of photography inspiration. Because of its neo-gothic architecture and lofty tower, Rathaus stands out from the rest, symbolically and practically. The one big drawback of this area is that it is almost always crowded with some event, fair, market, or festival.

Best time to visit: Anytime, but especially during the blue hour and night

7. Hundertwasser House

Hundertwasser House, an apartment complex that must be seen to be believed, is a refreshing change of pace from Vienna's usual opulence. This expressionist structure, one of several created by Austrian artist Friedensreich Hundertwasser, is eclectic in the most excellent way possible. The side façade, which is constructed out of colourful bricks stacked on top of one another, is the most popular sight here.

Best time to visit: Afternoon

8. Gerstner Salons Privés

The salon on the upper level of Café Gerstner K. u. K. Hofzuckerbäcker is one of the most appealing of all the coffeehouses in Vienna with its magnificent design. You will need to make a reservation to get up here. Take photos of the opulent décor, which includes chandeliers pouring from the ceiling.

Best time to visit: During opening hours

Things to keep in mind while visiting Vienna

The Austrian capital is not only one of the safest cities to visit.
Bavarian, often known as Austro-Bavarian, is the most frequently spoken dialect. Pro tip: Austrians and Bavarians often greet each other with "Grüß Gott," which roughly translates to “God bless”.
When preparing for a trip to a city like Vienna, your first thought might include your shoes. You will have to walk on cobblestone streets, climb stairs, and spend hours exploring museum galleries, castle grounds and parks. However, do pack your loveliest evening gown and elegant sandals if you are going to the opera or a ball in Vienna.
Instead of buying bottled water, drink from the pipes or one of the 1,000+ public fountains. The water comes straight from Alpine springs. It tastes better than the majority of bottled water in the markets. As a result, bringing a refillable bottle is an excellent idea.
Bring a reusable bag with you. Grocery bags cost a few cents in supermarkets and retailers. Recycling and reducing plastic consumption are significant issues in Vienna and throughout Austria.
It is typical to round up the amount and add 5-15% to the total. Just do not leave cash on the table; instead, tell the waiter how much change you want back when you pay.
Traditional Viennese coffee cafés are on the UNESCO list of World Cultural Heritage Sites. Wiener Melange, Vienna's most popular coffee, is a must-try. As the name implies, Viennese Blend is similar to a cappuccino.
You should try the famous Mozartkugeln at least once, along with the legendary croissants from Vienna and Sacher Torte, which has not changed its recipe since it was first made. The combination of dark chocolate, nougat crème, pistachios, and marzipan will bring even the most seasoned travellers to tears.
If you visit Vienna, then you must try at least one schnitzel. The classic Viennese cutlet is juicy and filling. Under no circumstances should you cover it with sauces; else, your gastronomical affair will be ruined.
Within the city borders of Vienna, over 400 vineyards produce delectable wines. Vienna is renowned as the ‘Wine City’ for this reason. The majority of wines produced are consumed young. Riesling, Chardonnay, and Pinot Blanc are among the most popular white varieties.
In winters, Vienna looks fantastic. You will fall in love with the city if you are lucky enough to see it blanketed in snow. Expect magnificent Christmas markets and a massive ice-skating rink in front of the Town Hall to add to the enchantment. Vienna Ice World is one of the world's largest open-air artificial ice rinks. Each year, from December through the end of February, it welcomes enthusiasts of all ages and proficiency levels.
Consider purchasing event tickets straight from the venue.

How to commute?

By air: Vienna International Airport is the city's designated international airport. It lies 18 km southeast of central Vienna. And depending on the mode of transportation, it can be reached in 35 minutes. Thanks to IndiGo’s partnership with Turkish Airlines, you can easily fly from Delhi to Vienna and other European destinations.
By tram: Taking the red and white trams, the most frequent and convenient mode of transportation, is the best way to explore Vienna. The tram covers nearly all the significant sights, making it the most viable mode for individuals, even those who live in remote areas.
By bus: Buses run throughout Vienna. They are operational 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
By taxi: Taxis are readily accessible in the city centre to take you to the best spots, but prices may add up quickly. Before boarding, it is advised to negotiate a fare and remember, tipping is customary.

Getting around

Public transit in Vienna is affordable, swift, clean, and efficient. There are four types of public transportation: bus, local rail, tram and subway. If you are on a tight budget, then avoid taking taxis because they may rapidly add up to the cost. Uber is also available here and is less expensive than a cab if you want a private trip. Renting a car is not needed to go to Vienna. Most places are accessible by foot and public transportation is dependable. If you want to rent a car, then be sure you have an international driver's licence (IDP).

Best time to visit Vienna

Because of the mild, though occasionally chilly, weather, spring and fall are the best months to visit Vienna. The city's attractions are easier to explore and hotel expenses are lower because there are fewer tourists. Summers are hot and sunny, with light rain.

Despite the cold, people visit Christmas markets and stunning displays all winter long. Even if you are not quite ready to waltz onto the dance floor, the ball season, which spans from November through February, can be fun. Dressing for the ball, live music, and a festive mood contribute to a lasting memory.

Conclusion

The above mentioned photography spots are perfect for those looking to capture some great pictures during their visit to Vienna. Be sure to add some of these to your list and be camera-ready on your visit. Try to visit the locations a little earlier to avoid tourists and to get good pictures.