Vienna with Kids

Vienna, the capital of Austria, is a city rich in history and culture, with a wide range of activities suitable for all ages. When traveling with kids, Vienna is an ideal destination, offering a unique combination of educational, entertaining, and engaging experiences. This guide will help you discover the best places to visit, where to stay and eat, and will provide you with a detailed four-day travel itinerary designed specifically for families.

Activities for Kids in Vienna

Museums and Educational Experiences

• Natural History Museum: The Natural History Museum is a must-see for families. It houses an extensive collection of natural wonders, including the Venus of Willendorf, the world’s oldest known sculpture, and a captivating dinosaur exhibit featuring complete fossils and life-size mechanical reproductions. The museum’s vast taxidermy collection will fascinate both kids and adults, making it a truly educational and exciting outing for the whole family.
• House of Music: For young music enthusiasts, the House of Music is the perfect destination. Combining historical exhibits with interactive fun, this museum allows kids to enjoy a musical staircase, where each step is a virtual piano key, as well as a virtual conductor installation where they can lead the Vienna Philharmonic under the guidance of conductor Zubin Mehta.
• Zoom Children’s Museum: The Zoom Children’s Museum offers hands-on, themed exhibits designed for different age groups. Each exhibit is guided by museum staff and requires advanced booking. Themes range from the human body to ocean exploration and animation, ensuring an engaging and educational experience for kids.

Animal Encounters

• Vienna Zoo: Situated within the Schönbrunn Palace Grounds, the Vienna Zoo is the oldest zoo in the world, home to over 700 species. Special shows and animal feedings, including elephants, sea lions, and tigers, make a visit to the zoo a delightful and memorable experience. Allow a full day to explore the zoo’s expansive grounds and various exhibits.
• House of the Sea: Housed in a former Nazi air-raid tower, the House of the Sea is a private museum featuring an impressive collection of aquatic and terrestrial life. Highlights include a glass tunnel that runs through an enormous tank, interactive installations, and an open area for birds, monkeys, and bats. The unique setting and diverse exhibits will captivate the entire family.

Outdoor and Amusement Activities

• Prater Park and the Giant Ferris Wheel: Prater Park, home to the historic Riesenrad (Giant Ferris Wheel), offers breathtaking views of the city and a wide variety of attractions. The amusement park within Prater features over 250 rides, a chocolate museum, and harness horse racing, providing endless entertainment options for both kids and adults.
• Spanish Riding School: For kids who love horses, the Spanish Riding School is a must-see. Watch the Lipizzaner horses perform their famous routines. Practice sessions are open to the public, but it’s advisable to book tickets in advance as they often sell out.

When to Visit Vienna

Vienna is a great destination year-round, but the best time to visit with kids is during the spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) when the weather is mild and pleasant. These periods also avoid the peak tourist season, ensuring a more relaxed and enjoyable experience.

Where to Stay

• Budget: Hotel Atlanta offers affordable and comfortable stays.
• Mid-range: Hotel Brauhof Wien provides a balance of comfort and convenience.
• Luxury: Hotel Spiess & Spiess offers top-notch amenities and spacious family rooms.

Where to Eat

Vienna’s cafés are perfect for indulging in sweet treats:

• Café Leopold Hawelka: Known for its Buchteln, sweet yeast buns filled with jam.
• Demel: Famous for its beautiful cakes, pastries, and chocolates.
• Café Central: Renowned for its Viennese coffee and Sacher Torte.

Family-Friendly Restaurants

While exploring Vienna, you’ll find numerous family-friendly restaurants offering a variety of cuisines. Consider joining a Vienna Food Tour to discover more culinary delights and encourage kids to try new foods.

Four-Day Travel Itinerary

Day 1: Cultural and Historical Exploration

• Morning: Visit the Natural History Museum. Spend a few hours exploring the extensive exhibits.
• Afternoon: Head to the House of Music for interactive fun.
• Evening: Enjoy a traditional Viennese dinner at a family-friendly restaurant.

Day 2: Animal Adventures

• Morning: Spend the day at Vienna Zoo. Participate in special animal feedings and shows.
• Afternoon: Continue exploring the zoo or visit the Schönbrunn Palace Gardens.
• Evening: Relax with dinner and dessert at Café Leopold Hawelka.

Day 3: Interactive and Hands-On Experiences

• Morning: Book a session at Zoom Children’s Museum. Enjoy the guided, hands-on exhibits.
• Afternoon: Visit the House of the Sea for a unique blend of aquatic and terrestrial exhibits.
• Evening: Stroll through Prater Park and ride the Giant Ferris Wheel.

Day 4: Equine Elegance and Relaxation

• Morning: Attend a practice session at the Spanish Riding School. Watch the Lipizzaner horses in action.
• Afternoon: Explore the surrounding area, including the Hofburg Palace.
• Evening: Conclude your trip with a visit to Demel for a final sweet treat.

Tips for Traveling with Kids in Vienna

• Teach kids to stay away from curbs, stick close to family, and always look both ways when exiting public transportation.
• Equip kids with Airtags or tracking devices and ensure they have a translator app if they carry a cell phone.
• Create cards with important phone numbers, names, and accommodation details.Stranger Danger: Teach kids to be vigilant of their surroundings, ensure the safety of their belongings, and refrain from divulging personal information to unfamiliar individuals.
• Prepare a first-aid kit, have essential documents easily accessible, and be aware of the nearest medical facilities. Keep snacks and water on hand, and establish a plan in case a child becomes lost.
• Save time and avoid lengthy queues by purchasing tickets ahead of time, even if you are physically present near the attraction.