The Hofburg, the former Imperial Palace and nerve-centre of the Hapsburgs, is one of Europe's most lavish royal complexes, lording over much of the historic city centre.
You could spend days exploring the gilt-edged collection of buildings, but the showpiece attractions include the Imperial Apartments, a live performance of the Vienna
Boys' Choir in the Royal Chapel, and the Spanish Riding School.
First brought to Austria from Spain in 1562, the elegant white lipizzaner stallions were regularly used by the Hapsburgs for military equestrian pursuits, imperial celebrations and entertainment.
When the Hapsburgs relinquished power in World War I, the school was finally opened to the general public, and now stages daily performances.
Be sure to soak up the scenery and ambience of Heroes' Square.
The vast recreation park was formerly the Hapsburgs' parade ground. Lavishly adorned with imperial equestrian statues, it was also the site of Hitler's feverish address to the Viennese, after Nazi Germany annexed Austria in1938.
The mighty Hapsburg dynasty was never short of real estate. Its summer retreat, Schonbrunn Palace, 10km west of Hofburg is a sprawling estate.
However, for a mix of art exhibitions, stirring sculpture and manicured lawns, the Belvedere Palace ticks all the boxes.
Constructed by Prince Eugen to celebrate the defeat of the invading Ottoman Turks in 1683, it is now one of Vienna's most popular weekend haunts for locals and visitors.
The French-style formal gardens are replete with fountains and topiary. However, it's the classic statuary, complete with Greek mythological figures, that's particularly eye-catching.
