Welcome to Vienna in the Spring!
Travel Dates: March, April, May
Spring in Vienna is a lovely time to visit, but the weather can be a bit unpredictable. Mornings and evenings tend to be cool, so layering is essential. Start with a short sleeve shirt and add a light jacket or sweater for warmth. As the day progresses, you can shed layers to stay comfortable. Rain is a possibility, particularly in April and May, so it’s a good idea to pack a rain jacket or a small umbrella. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring the city’s historic streets, beautiful parks, and grand palaces.
Dress Code
Vienna is a city where classic elegance meets modern style, so you’ll want to dress smartly but comfortably. During the day, jeans or pants paired with a nice top or light dress will work well for sightseeing. If you’re planning to visit churches or attend a concert at the Vienna State Opera, consider dressing up a bit—think smart casual attire with a stylish touch. Comfortable yet chic footwear is key, especially for walking along the cobblestone streets or exploring the beautiful gardens. Vienna’s cultural events and classical music performances often call for a more refined dress code, so feel free to bring along a dress or a sharp outfit for the evenings.
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MARCH
36 – 52F (2 – 11C)
Cool, partly cloudy, with showers
1.5 inches of rain
APRIL
42 – 60F (6 – 16C)
Mild, sunny, with occasional rain
1.8 inches of rain
MAY
50 – 68F (10 – 20C)
Pleasant, warm, with light breezes
2.4 inches of rain
Tops & Layers
1. Short Sleeve Shirts: Ideal for the mild afternoons when the sun is out. I loved having these for days spent exploring the museums and parks.
2. Long Sleeve Shirts: Perfect for cooler mornings and evenings, especially when visiting historic sites.
3. Light Jacket: Great for layering during early spring and those cool evening walks along the Ringstrasse.
4. Rain Jacket: Essential for the frequent spring showers, especially in April and May.
Bottoms & Dresses
1. Jeans: Comfortable and versatile, perfect for casual outings and exploring the city. These were great for walking around Vienna’s historic districts.
2. Pants: Lightweight pants are useful for both day and evening, providing comfort in mild weather.
3. Skirt: A stylish option for warmer days, ideal for sightseeing or dining out.
4. Dress: A versatile piece that can be dressed up or down, perfect for attending a concert or enjoying a café.
5. Jumpsuit: Great for a chic, all-in-one outfit that’s comfortable and perfect for Vienna’s elegant vibe.
6. Leggings: Ideal for layering or for a comfortable option when exploring the city. I liked having leggings for the cool evenings by the Danube.
Shoes & Accessories
1. Comfortable Walking Shoes: Essential for exploring Vienna’s many attractions and historic sites. I found these to be really practical for long days on my feet.
2. Flats: A stylish yet comfortable option for warmer days, perfect for casual outings or dining out.
3. Sunglasses: A must for those sunny spring days, especially when spending time outdoors in Vienna’s beautiful parks.
4. Hat: Great for sun protection during outdoor activities and while exploring the city.
5. Scarf: Useful for adding a stylish touch to your outfit and for extra warmth on cooler days.
6. Pajamas: Comfortable sleepwear for mild spring nights in Vienna.
Luggage & Packs
1. Carry-On: Perfect for a weekend getaway, with enough space for your essentials and a few outfits.
2. Daypack: Useful for carrying water, snacks, and extra layers while exploring the city.
3. Purse: Handy for carrying your essentials when going out for dinner or attending events.
4. Tote Bag: Great for carrying additional layers or purchases from local shops.
Travel Essentials
- Reusable Water Bottle: A must-have for travel days and while exploring for the day.
- Packing Cubes: Helpful for staying organized rather than ending up with a heap of clothes in your luggage.
- Luggage Tags: Even if you’re not checking luggage, still good to have in case you misplace your bags.
- Luggage Locks: Can be handy even if you’re not checking luggage, making your backpack more pickpocket-proof.
- Sleep Mask: An eye mask is a game changer for helping you get quality sleep each night.
- White Noise Machine: Same as above. White noise machines have helped me get more consistent sleep.
- Ear Plugs: Much better than the generic foam ones that never stay in my ears.
- Jewelry Case: Especially nice for organizing necklaces and not getting them all tangled.
- Dry Bag: An item to bring if you plan to do a lot of water activities or boat trips.
- Water Shoes: Same as above. Great to bring if you plan to do water activities or boat trips.
- Travel Umbrella: Only if you’re going somewhere where it’s going to be wet and rainy (but not too windy).
- Deck of Cards / Fox in the Forest: I love playing card games while traveling. It’s a fun way to pass the time.
- Portable Charger: It’s surprising how often you don’t have an outlet when you need one, and your phone is essential for everything from directions to your mobile boarding pass.
- Universal Travel Adapter: This universal adapter works in 200+ countries. Great for airports too.
- E-sim: I’ve used Airalo in four different countries now, and it’s the best solution for using data abroad.
- Phone: Currently travel with an iPhone 13 Pro, which also works as my camera for most trips.
- Tablet: I use my iPad mainly for watching shows and movies and checking emails while traveling.
- Headphone Splitter: I use this one with my iPad Air so I can watch shows with my husband on long flights.
- GoPro: A great camera for underwater photography or adventure activities.
- Memory Card for GoPro: This is the one I use for my GoPro, high-quality and reliable.
- Waterproof Phone Case: Even with my GoPro, I end up using this all the time since phone quality photos are so good now.
- Kindle: I love traveling with my Kindle and being able to read multiple books on a trip without the extra weight.
- Noise-Canceling Headphones: These wraparound ones are a must for long plane rides if I want to get any sleep. I also bring Airpods for local bus trips or on-the-go travel when I want to carry something smaller.
- Air Tags: Great if you’re checking luggage in case it gets lost or stolen.
- Chargers: Don’t forget all the chargers you’ll need for the electronics listed above.
- Toiletry Bag: Great for going through security, and they make it easier to find what I want to use.
- Reusable Containers for Toiletries: I use reusable containers so I don’t need to buy expensive travel-sized products.
- Electric Toothbrush: I’ve tried those tiny travel toothbrushes, and they just don’t work for me.
- Toothpaste: These are the perfect travel size that lasts about a month or so for two people.
- Floss: Any floss will do.
- Natural Deodorant: I finally discovered a good natural deodorant. Plus, it’s small, so it’s perfect for travel.
- Shampoo: I get the large size and then just put it in my mini travel containers.
- Conditioner: Same as above. I don’t worry about bringing body wash since I’m okay using whatever’s provided.
- Panty Liners: For when you want some extra protection. Also great for sweaty travel days to keep you more dry.
- Tampons: I like that these are made without plastic, and they’re easy to put into small purses and travel with.
- Tide to Go Pen: Surprisingly handy for getting out those random stains or spills.
- Travel Laundry Detergent: These are useful because you can use them for hand washing or as washer detergent.
- Travel Clothesline: Handy when you need to wash your clothes but realize most of the world doesn’t use dryers.
- Hairbrush: I don’t use a travel-size version because it’s not worth it for me. I’d rather have a full-size brush.
- Hair Ties: Any brand works, but I also make sure to have plenty on hand in my bags.
- After Sun Lotion: Great to have if you’re traveling during the hotter months and expect to get a lot of sun.
- Face Sunscreen: I’ve tried many sunscreen brands, and this is the best face sunscreen I’ve found.
- Body Sunscreen: Reef-safe, easy to spread, and smells good.
- Face Cleanser: I usually get a regular-size bottle and then put it into my refillable travel containers.
- Moisturizer: I’ve tried many fancy moisturizers, and I’ve realized that the simplest ones often work best for me.
- Overnight Face Mask: I use this in daily life as well, but during travel it’s especially good because it’s so hydrating.
- Lip Balm: I’ve been a Burts Bees stan for over a decade, and I don’t think I’ll change anytime soon.
- Makeup: The three essentials I always bring are lip gloss/lipstick, my Clinique CC Cream + makeup brush, and mascara. Everything else is added on depending on the vibes of the trip.
- Travel Razor: I love this size and how easy it is to change the razor heads once a week.
- Razor Replacements: I usually bring enough to replace the razor head once per week while traveling.
- Hydrating Face Sheets: I pack a couple of these to use after long plane rides, great for hydrating your face.
- Travel Mirror: This is a luxury item, but it’s surprising how often I use it when there’s only one bathroom.
- Dry Bar Blow Dryer Brush: Another luxury item. It’s bulky to bring (and I don’t always bring it), but it’s a versatile tool for looking more put together in non-humid destinations.
- Heat Protectant Spray: For the Dry Bar Brush.
- Bug Spray: The most effective spray I’ve found that doesn’t use DEET.
- Tylenol: The best remedy when a headache strikes.
- Motion Sickness Pills: You never know when you might get motion sickness, especially if you’re prone to it like me.
- Tums: Handy for dealing with indigestion or heartburn when eating foods different than you’re used to.
- Pepto Bismol: Another thing to help soothe an upset stomach.
- Other Travel Medications: Make sure to research what else you might need to bring for the destination.
- Electrolyte Powder: Great for staying hydrated, especially after a day in the sun or a long flight.
- Band-Aids: Useful for minor cuts and blisters.
- Anti-Septic Wipes: Keeps wounds clean and prevents infection.
- Unisom SleepMelts: Obviously optional, but these are the only way I’m able to sleep on planes.
- Melatonin: Helps with sleep, especially if you’re adjusting to a new time zone.
- Hand Sanitizer: Essential for keeping your hands clean when soap and water aren’t available.
- Passport
- Travel Visas (if needed)
- Travel Documents, Tickets, Boarding Passes & Booking Confirmations
- Driver’s License / International Driving Permit (if needed)
- Photocopy of Passport (hidden in your pack)
- Emergency Cash – I usually bring US $200 and hide it in 1-2 packs/purses I have with me on travel days in case of an emergency. I make sure it’s separate from my wallet.
- Credit / Debit Cards
- Travel Insurance – Nice to have in case of any medical or travel emergencies.
What to Know Before You Pack
- Layering is key: Vienna’s spring weather can change throughout the day, so bring layers to stay comfortable.
- Rain gear: Showers are common, particularly in April and May, so pack a small umbrella or a light rain jacket.
- Smart casual: Vienna has a refined style, so pack outfits that can easily transition from day to night.
- Comfortable footwear: The city is best explored on foot, so bring comfortable walking shoes that are also stylish.
Vienna Spring Travel FAQs
WHICH SPRING MONTH IS THE BEST TO VISIT VIENNA?
May is the best month to visit Vienna during spring, with warm temperatures and blooming gardens.
WHAT SPRING FESTIVALS & EVENTS ARE THERE IN VIENNA?
March: Vienna Opera Ball – One of the most prestigious events in Vienna, held at the Vienna State Opera, featuring elegant gowns and waltzing.
March: Easter Markets – Traditional Easter markets with handcrafted goods, local foods, and decorations, held at various locations, including Schönbrunn Palace and the Freyung.
April: Vienna City Marathon – A major event attracting runners from around the world, with a scenic route through the city’s historic center.
May: Vienna Festival (Wiener Festwochen) – A cultural festival featuring theater, music, and dance performances from international artists, held across the city.
May: Donauinselfest – Europe’s largest free open-air music festival, held on the Danube Island, with performances by local and international artists.
WHERE SHOULD I GO IN VIENNA IN THE SPRING?
Spring in Vienna is the perfect time to explore the city’s grand architecture, cultural landmarks, and beautiful gardens. Start your day with a visit to Schönbrunn Palace, where you can tour the opulent rooms and stroll through the vast gardens, which are particularly lovely in the spring. Next, head to the Vienna State Opera, one of the world’s most famous opera houses, for a guided tour or to attend a performance. In the afternoon, take a walk along the Ringstrasse, a grand boulevard encircling the city center, where you’ll pass by many of Vienna’s most iconic buildings, including the Hofburg Palace and the Austrian Parliament. Don’t miss the chance to visit the Belvedere Museum, home to Gustav Klimt’s famous painting, “The Kiss.” End your day with a relaxing stroll through the Stadtpark, where you can enjoy the blooming flowers and visit the famous statue of Johann Strauss.
HOW MANY DAYS DO I NEED TO VISIT VIENNA IN THE SPRING?
A 5-7 day visit is ideal for experiencing the best of Vienna in the spring, including its cultural events, historic sites, and gardens.
Suggested Itineraries:
2 Days: Day 1: Start with a morning visit to Schönbrunn Palace, then explore the Vienna State Opera in the afternoon. In the evening, stroll along the Ringstrasse and enjoy dinner at a traditional Viennese restaurant. Day 2: Visit the Belvedere Museum in the morning to see Klimt’s “The Kiss,” then take a walk through the Naschmarkt for lunch and shopping. In the afternoon, relax in the Stadtpark, and end your day with a visit to the Hofburg Palace.
5 Days: Copy the itinerary of the 2-day schedule. Add: Day 3: Spend the day exploring the MuseumsQuartier, where you can visit the Leopold Museum and the Museum of Modern Art. In the evening, attend a concert at the Musikverein, one of the world’s leading concert halls. Day 4: Take a day trip to the Vienna Woods (Wienerwald), where you can hike and visit the Heiligenkreuz Abbey, one of the oldest Cistercian monasteries in the world. Day 5: Visit the Prater amusement park, where you can ride the famous Giant Ferris Wheel and enjoy the lively atmosphere.
1 Week: Copy the itinerary of the 5-day schedule. Add: Day 6: Explore the vibrant Mariahilf district, known for its shopping street, Mariahilfer Strasse, and unique boutiques. In the evening, dine at a wine tavern (Heuriger) in the Grinzing neighborhood, where you can enjoy local wines and traditional Austrian food. Day 7: Take a day trip to the Wachau Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its beautiful landscapes, vineyards, and historic towns like Dürnstein and Melk.
10 Days: Copy the itinerary of the 1-week schedule. Add: Day 8: Visit the Kunsthistorisches Museum, one of the most important art museums in Europe, followed by a visit to the nearby Natural History Museum. In the evening, explore the Spittelberg neighborhood, known for its charming narrow streets and artisan shops. Day 9: Spend the day at the Schönbrunn Zoo, the oldest zoo in the world, located within the Schönbrunn Palace grounds. Day 10: Revisit your favorite spots or discover new areas, ending with a final dinner at one of Vienna’s top-rated restaurants.
2 Weeks: Copy the itinerary of the 10-day schedule. Add: Day 11: Explore the vibrant Neubau district, where you can visit the Zieglergasse, a street known for its independent shops and cafes. In the evening, take a walk along the Danube Canal, where you’ll find street art and trendy bars. Day 12: Take a day trip to Bratislava, the capital of Slovakia, just an hour’s boat ride away from Vienna, where you can explore its charming old town and visit Bratislava Castle. Day 13: Spend the day at the Lainzer Tiergarten, a nature reserve on the outskirts of Vienna, where you can hike and enjoy the beautiful scenery. Day 14: Spend your final day revisiting favorite spots, shopping for souvenirs, or enjoying one last meal at your favorite Vienna restaurant.
WHAT SHOULD I PACK 2 DAYS, 5 DAYS, 1 WEEK, 10 DAYS, AND 2 WEEKS IN VIENNA?
2 Days
- 2 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 1 Long Sleeve Shirt
- 1 Light Jacket
- 1 Rain Jacket
- 1 Pair of Jeans
- 1 Pair of Pants
- 1 Pair of Comfortable Walking Shoes
- 1 Pair of Flats
- 1 Hat
- 1 Scarf
- 1 Pair of Pajamas
5 Days
- 3 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 2 Long Sleeve Shirts
- 1 Light Jacket
- 1 Rain Jacket
- 1 Pair of Jeans
- 1 Skirt
- 1 Pair of Pants
- 1 Dress
- 1 Jumpsuit
- 1 Pair of Comfortable Walking Shoes
- 1 Pair of Flats
- 1 Hat
- 1 Scarf
- 1 Pair of Pajamas
1 Week
- 4 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 2 Long Sleeve Shirts
- 1 Light Jacket
- 1 Rain Jacket
- 1 Pair of Jeans
- 1 Skirt
- 1 Pair of Pants
- 2 Dresses
- 1 Jumpsuit
- 1 Pair of Comfortable Walking Shoes
- 1 Pair of Flats
- 1 Hat
- 1 Scarf
- 1 Pair of Pajamas
10 Days
- 5 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 3 Long Sleeve Shirts
- 1 Light Jacket
- 1 Rain Jacket
- 2 Pairs of Jeans
- 1 Skirt
- 2 Pairs of Pants
- 2 Dresses
- 2 Jumpsuits
- 1 Pair of Comfortable Walking Shoes
- 1 Pair of Flats
- 1 Hat
- 1 Scarf
- 1 Pair of Pajamas
2 Weeks
- 6 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 3 Long Sleeve Shirts
- 1 Light Jacket
- 1 Rain Jacket
- 2 Pairs of Jeans
- 2 Skirts
- 2 Pairs of Pants
- 3 Dresses
- 2 Jumpsuits
- 1 Pair of Comfortable Walking Shoes
- 1 Pair of Flats
- 1 Hat
- 1 Scarf
- 1 Pair of Pajamas
WHAT SHOULD I NOT PACK FOR VIENNA IN THE SPRING?
Heavy Winter Coats: Vienna’s spring weather is mild, so a heavy coat will likely be too warm.
High Heels: Vienna’s cobblestone streets and public transportation are better navigated in comfortable, flat shoes.
Thick Sweaters: The temperatures are mild, so thick sweaters will likely be too warm.
WHAT SHOULD I BUDGET FOR A TRIP TO VIENNA IN THE SPRING?
Airfare: $500 – $1,200, depending on the departure location and booking time.
Accommodation: $100 – $300 per night, with variations based on the location and hotel class.
Transportation: $20 – $50 for local travel, including Metro passes and Ubers.
Meals: $30 – $80 per day, depending on dining choices.
Activities: $20 – $60 for museum entrance fees, tours, and other activities.
IS THERE A TIPPING CULTURE IN VIENNA? WHAT IS APPROPRIATE TO TIP?
Tipping is customary in Vienna. Around 10-15% is typical in restaurants, and $1-3 per drink depending on location. Tip $1-2 per bag for hotel bellhops. For taxi drivers, rounding up the fare is common practice.
WHAT ARE SOME LOCAL TIPS I SHOULD KNOW ABOUT VIENNA BEFORE I VISIT?
- Vienna’s spring weather can be unpredictable: Always be prepared for sudden rain, so keep your rain gear handy.
- Public transportation is efficient: The Metro and tram systems are great ways to get around the city, especially during peak hours.
- The city is very walkable: Bring comfortable shoes and be ready to explore on foot.
- Plan for crowds: Vienna is a popular tourist destination, so book tickets and reservations in advance for popular attractions.