5 Biggest Mistakes Tourists ALWAYS Make in Vienna
Visiting Vienna is an incredible experience, but there are a few common mistakes that I see travelers make all the time. To help you avoid unnecessary hassle, here’s a guide to the most frequent pitfalls and how to sidestep them.
1. Not Checking Closing Times
One of the biggest mistakes tourists make is not checking opening and closing times. In Vienna, closing times can be tricky, so here’s what you need to know:
Supermarkets and Shops: Shops are closed on Sundays and public holidays. Many also close early on Saturdays around 6 PM (some even earlier!), so plan ahead!
Museums and Attractions: Some have specific closing days. For example, the Museum of Art History (Kunsthistorisches Museum) is closed on Mondays.
Parks: Some parks close at night. If you're visiting Schönbrunn, be aware that the park gates close at night—you don’t want to get locked in! (Yes, it has happened before!)
Restaurants: Some have designated closing days, so always double-check before heading out. But don’t worry—Vienna has plenty of excellent alternatives. If you’re looking for recommendations, check out my Vienna Food Guide.
2. Not Carrying Cash
While many places in Vienna accept credit cards, some restaurants, food stands, and smaller shops are still cash-only. Also, public bathrooms often require coins for access. So, always keep some cash on hand to avoid inconvenience!
3. Forgetting to Validate Public Transport Tickets
This is one of the biggest mistakes tourists make! If you purchase a single fare or a travel pass, you must validate it at one of the validation machines before boarding. If you forget and an inspector checks your ticket, you’ll face a hefty fine. Don’t let this happen to you!
4. Packing the Wrong Items
Vienna’s weather can be unpredictable, so make sure you pack a compact umbrella – Rain can happen anytime, regardless of the season.
Comfortable shoes – You’ll be walking a lot, especially if you’re sightseeing.
Power adapter – If you’re coming from the US, don’t forget to bring an adapter for Austrian power outlets. Need details on which one to buy? I have a free Vienna Packing List available on my website.
Get your power adapter
You need a power adapter, that fits “Schuko type F” power outlets. Klick here to get the correct one.
5. Not Planning Ahead
Vienna is a popular tourist destination, and some attractions can sell out quickly. To make the most of your time:
Book tickets in advance for sights like Schönbrunn Palace and popular concerts to secure the best seats.
Plan your itinerary so you don’t miss out on must-see locations.
For more tips on saving money, visiting top attractions, and finding great restaurants, check out my Vienna Travel Guides on gretewalz.com. Happy travels!
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