Spring in Vienna – the best things to do

Spring in Vienna is truly special, and I really love this time of the year. The city awakens from its winter slumber, the parks burst into bloom, and finally, you can sit outside again. It’s the perfect time to discover new corners of the city, stroll through blooming gardens or simply soak up the first warm rays of sunshine in one of the many outdoor cafés. In this post, I’ll show you my favorite things you absolutely must do in Vienna in spring. Plus, you’ll get all the info you need to make the most of your visit!

1. Visit the Easter Markets

A visit to an Easter market is simply a must in Vienna during spring. There are so many beautiful things to discover, and every year, I’m amazed all over again by the countless hand-painted Easter eggs.

Altwiener Ostermarkt Freyung (Old Viennese Easter Market Freyung)

This Easter market, right in the heart of Vienna (on one of the city’s most beautiful squares), is an absolute must for me every year! The stalls offer a variety of items, including lavender products, handmade soaps, ceramics, chocolate, and wicker goods. If you’re feeling hungry, you can look forward to raclette, Kaiserschmarrn or a giant pretzel. There’s also a traditional music program to enjoy.

The absolute highlight, however, is Europe’s largest “Easter egg mountain”, featuring over 40,000 hand-painted Easter eggs in every possible color and pattern – it’s an incredible sight every single time.

OPENING HOURS :
APRIL 3 – 21, 2025
daily from 10 am – 8 pm
ADMISSION : 
free
FOR KIDS :
Free craft workshop (donations for charity welcome)
Free puppet theater
ADDRESS : 
Freyung, 1010 Wien

Ostermarkt Schloss Schönbrunn (Easter Market Schönbrunn Palace)

Against the stunning backdrop of Schönbrunn Palace, another beautiful Easter market takes place. This year it’s all new and they’ve added some adorable highlights like a ferris wheel, a carousel, a children’s train and a straw maze! There’s also a craft hut and boule courts. I love how spring-like everything is, and there are also seating areas to relax and soak in the atmosphere. At the stands, you’ll find beautifully painted Easter eggs, ceramic flowers, cute gifts, and, of course delicious treats  from Kaiserschmarrn and Spätzle to waffles, sausages, and churros!

OPENING HOURS :
March 27 – April 21, 2025
Monday – Thursday & Sunday: 10 am – 7 pm
Friday, Saturday and Easter Sunday: 10 am – 9 pm
ADMISSION : 
free
FOR KIDS :
Straw maze, carousel, Ferris wheel, children’s train, craft workshop
ADDRESS : 
Ehrenhof, Schönbrunn Palace, 1130 Vienna

Ostermarkt am Hof (Easter Market am Hof)

Just a few steps from Freyung, you’ll find another Easter market. Here, too, you’ll discover many stalls offering handcrafted items like painted Easter eggs, ceramics, and wooden products, as well as lovely gift ideas such as gingerbread treats, jewelry, lavender products and more.

OPENING HOURS :
April 4 – 21, 2025
Monday – Thursday: 11 am – 8 pm (food stalls until 9 pm)
Friday, Saturday, Sunday and public holidays: 10 am – 8 pm (food stalls until 9 pm)
ADMISSION : 
free
ADDRESS : 
Am Hof, 1010 Vienna

2. Discover the most beautiful magnolia and cherry blossom spots

One of the best things about spring, for me, is that nature finally awakens from its winter slumber. The pink magnolia and cherry blossoms, in particular, make the city feel so much more vibrant and cheerful.

Looking for more magnolia and cherry blossom spots in Vienna? Check out my article “The best places to see magnolia and cherry blossoms in Vienna” for even more beautiful locations.

Setagayapark

This Japanese garden in Döbling, one of Vienna’s outer districts, is always a little oasis, but in spring, when the magnolias and cherry blossoms bloom, it becomes truly magical. The park is quite small – you can walk through it in less than five minutes. There are no playgrounds for children or cafés, but the beautifully designed space with its pond, bridge, and tea house (not in operation) makes it one of my favorite spots in spring.

Tip: During peak bloom, the park can get extremely crowded (yes, sometimes there’s even a line at the entrance). If you want to enjoy some peace and quiet, visit early on a weekday. Even on weekends, if you arrive very early, you’ll likely only encounter a few photographers capturing the blossoms.

Is it worth visiting?
Yes, but if you’re only in Vienna for a short time, I’d recommend visiting the blooming spots in the city center instead. Getting to Setagayapark takes a bit longer, and the park itself is quite small. If you still really want to see it, it’s best to combine the visit with exploring the beautiful surroundings! How about a walk through the vineyards at Nussberg (see point 7 in this article)? Or maybe you’d enjoy the view from Kahlenberg, a visit to the House of Strauss, or a stroll through Grinzing.

OPENING HOURS :
March 1 – November 30, 2025
Open daily from 7 am (closing times vary)
ADMISSION : 
free
ADDRESS : 
Hohe Warte 8, 1190 Vienna

Stadtpark

Another very popular blossom spot is the huge, old magnolia tree in front of the Stadtgartenamt (at Am Heumarkt/Johannesgasse), right outside Stadtpark. I absolutely love its large pink blossoms, and every year, when the magnolia blooms, I know: It’s official – blossom season has begun!

Inside Stadtpark, you’ll also find a few early-blooming cherry trees, and the tree by the pond always makes for a particularly stunning photo spot.

Donaupark

Donaupark is also in full bloom during spring! Along Arbeiterstrandbadstraße, you’ll find a breathtaking sea of pink blossoms – an absolutely dreamy sight! Throughout the rest of the park, you’ll also come across plenty of blooming trees.

Sigmund-Freud-Park

This park is home to Vienna’s most famous magnolia tree, despite not being particularly large! Its location right in front of the Votive Church makes it the perfect photo spot, with the stunning church as a backdrop.

3. Admire the Tulips at the Blumengärten Hirschstetten (Flower gardens Hirschstetten)

Do you love tulips as much as I do? Then I highly recommend visiting the Blumengärten Hirschstetten (Hirschstetten Flower Gardens) in spring! Admittedly, this garden isn’t located right in the city center, but it’s definitely worth the trip – not just in spring. During this season, the gardens are truly breathtaking: hundreds of colorful tulips and daffodils bloom in every shade imaginable, and you can take a relaxing stroll through the various themed gardens – all with free admission.

Once again, I wouldn’t recommend this spot to visitors who are only in Vienna for a short time. In that case, I’d focus on the spots in the city center, as getting to the Blumengärten would take up too much of your precious time in Vienna.

OPENING HOURS :
March 18 – October 19: Tue – Sun 9 am – 6 pm
in June and August: Sat until 8 pm
Closed on Mondays (except on holidays)!
ADMISSION : 
free
ENTRANCES : 
South Entrance: Quadenstraße 15
North Entrance: Oberfeldgasse (opposite No. 41)
West Entrance: Spargelfeldstraße (opposite No. 75)
HOW TO GET THERE :
Tram 26 to “Spargelfeldstraße” station
Bus 22A, 95A, or 95B to “Blumengärten Hirschstetten” station
Car: Parking available on Spargelfeldstraße

4. Enjoy a coffee at Carl Ludwig Café

This little café is one of the many reasons I love Vienna so much. From the outside, it looks rather unassuming, but as soon as you step through the door, you find yourself in a modern café with a beautiful hidden garden right in the courtyard of a historic palais! It’s such a lovely, peaceful spot to take a break. Especially in spring, I always look forward to sitting in the sun, enjoying the tranquility, and ordering a chai latte with one of their small pastries.

But be warned: The garden is quite small, and the café has become quite popular. However, if you have a little patience, you’ll have a good chance of snagging one of the tables.

OPENING HOURS :
Monday – Friday: 7:30 am – 7:00 pm
Saturday: 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
Closed on Sundays and public holidays
ADDRESS : 
Favoritenstraße 7, 1040 Vienna
HOW TO GET THERE :
U1 subway: Taubstummengasse station
or tram 1: Paulanergasse station

No reservations possible!

Tip: Explore more in the area!
Just a few minutes’ walk away, you’ll find the impressive Karlskirche (St. Charles Church), which is not only stunning from the outside. In spring, there’s also a beautiful tulip bed in the park right in front of it. Right next door, the Wien Museum is worth a visit. It offers fascinating insights into the city’s history (for free!) and has a terrace with an amazing view of Karlskirche. A perfect little exploration after your café visit!

5. Experience Schönbrunn Palace Gardens during wisteria bloom

There aren’t many places in Vienna where you can find beautifully blooming wisteria, but the ones in Schönbrunn Palace Park are definitely the most stunning. The wisteria-covered archway right next to the palace looks absolutely magical and makes for a perfect spring photo spot.

Tip: If you want to experience this place as empty as in my photos, it’s best to go early in the morning. Later in the day, it can get quite crowded! I visited on a weekday between 9:00 and 9:30 AM and was lucky to have the arcade to myself at times. If it’s busier, you can still take great photos from the outside.

LOCATION :
You’ll find the Wisteria Arcade on the right side of Schönbrunn Palace. Enter the palace park through the main gate, walk past the right side of the palace through the archway, and then immediately turn left into the garden next to the palace.
OPENING HOURS :
Daily from 6.30 am, closing times vary between 5.30 pm and 9.00 pm depending on the month
ENTRY : 
free
HOW TO GET THERE :
Subway U4: Schönbrunn station
Tram 10 & 60: Schloss Schönbrunn stop
Bus 10A: Schloss Schönbrunn stop

6. Visit one of Vienna’s many festivals and events

Spring also marks the start of festival and fair season in Vienna. Here are some of the many events you won’t want to miss:

Steiermarkfrühling (Styrian Spring Festival)

In April, Styria, the “green heart of Austria”, comes to Rathausplatz, bringing along its regional delicacies, music, and over 100 exhibitors showcasing the best of the region.

WHEN :
April 8 – 12, 2026
WHERE :
Rathausplatz
ENTRY :
Free

Vienna City Marathon

Austria’s biggest running event takes place on April 19, drawing thousands of sports enthusiasts to the streets of Vienna. The route runs from Reichsbrücke, passing iconic landmarks like Schönbrunn Palace, and finishes at the Ringstraße near the Burgtheater.

WHEN :
Sunday, April 19, 2026
START :
Wagramer Straße/Reichsbrücke
FINISH :
Ringstraße/Burgtheater

Wiener Genussfestival (Vienna Food Festival)

In May, the Stadtpark transforms into a paradise for food lovers. Over 100 stalls offer regional specialties from all over Austria, plus interactive experience stations where you can meet the producers in person. Entry is free, just drop by and enjoy!

WHEN :
May 8 – 10, 2026
WHERE :
Stadtpark, Vienna
ENTRY :
Free

Stefflkirtag

During the Stefflkirtag, the area in front of St. Stephen’s Cathedral turns into a festival ground with traditional crafts, Austrian food and live music. There’s even an old-fashioned carousel and special programs for kids. The fair is accompanied by festive church services and concerts.

WHEN :
May 21 – June 1, 2026
daily from 10 am – 9 pm
WHERE :
Stephansplatz, right next to St. Stephen’s Cathedral
ENTRY :
Free

7. Take a walk to the wine taverns at Nussberg

One of the things I look forward to most in spring: the wine taverns (Heurigen) at Nussberg are reopening! From early to mid-April, some even as late as May, these charming wine taverns set up their outdoor benches right in the middle of the vineyards, offering breathtaking views over Vienna. Most are only open on weekends, and since they primarily have outdoor seating, it’s best to visit when the weather is pleasantly warm.

OPENING HOURS :
Wieninger am Nussberg (Eichelhofweg 125): from April 4, 2025 – Thursday: 3 pm – 10 pm, Friday & Saturday: 12 pm – 10 pm, Sunday & Holidays: 11 am – 10 pm
Mayer am Nussberg (Kahlenberger Straße 213): from April 2025 – Thursday & Friday: from 2 pm, Saturday, Sunday & Holidays: from 12 pm
Feuerwehr Wagner am Nussberg (Eisernenhandgasse 17): Opening hours
Weinbau Windischbauer (Eichelhofweg): from April 2025
GETTING THERE :
Most Heurigen at Nussberg are not accessible by car (except by taxi) or public transport. They can only be reached on foot or via the Heurigen-Express.

My Tip for the Perfect Route:

• Take Bus 38A to Kahlenberg and enjoy the stunning panoramic view over Vienna from the terrace.
• Walk down Stadtwanderweg 1 (City Hiking Trail 1) towards Nussberg.
• Stop for a relaxing break at one of the Heurigen along the way.
• Continue through the vineyards along Eichelhofweg – the views are incredible, and you’ll find more Heurigen there!
• Turn right at the sign for Heurigen Windischbauer and walk through the vineyards to Friedhof Nussdorf.
• Follow Eroicagasse to Pfarrplatz and then continue to Grinzingerstraße, where you can catch a bus back.

8. Explore Vienna beyond the city center

Vienna’s city center is beautiful, but it’s also worth exploring other parts of the city. There are some truly charming neighborhoods (Grätzl, as we say in Vienna), and especially in spring, when outdoor seating returns, strolling through the small streets is even more enjoyable.

Servitenviertel

My absolute favorite neighborhood! I love starting my walk in the park of Palais Liechtenstein and then making a quick stop at Strudlhofstiege and continuing towards Servitengasse. The quarter has a bit of a French flair, with lots of charming cafés and restaurants. I especially enjoy having breakfast at Plain Vienna or La Mercerie. For those interested in culture, the Sigmund Freud Museum is also located here.

Spittelberg

The small alleys with their beautiful baroque houses are always worth a visit! You’ll find plenty of restaurants, small galleries, and a particularly cozy atmosphere here.

Karmeliterviertel

A perfect way to start the day: breakfast at Karmelitermarkt (e.g., at cafemima), followed by a stroll through the neighborhood all the way to Augarten.

Freihausviertel and Naschmarkt

The area right next to Naschmarkt has a lot to offer as well, especially along Schleifmühlgasse, where you’ll find charming shops (e.g., Babette’s, Planet Buch), cozy cafés (e.g., Vollpension), and beautiful architecture.

9. Admire Vienna from above

Isn’t it always special to see a city from above? Now that the weather is getting warmer and sunnier, it’s even more enjoyable. The MQ Libelle, one of my favorite rooftop terraces, finally reopens after its winter break! Plus, Vienna’s rooftop bars are back in season, offering drinks with a view.

Wondering where to find the best views in Vienna? Check out my post “The Best Viewpoints in Vienna“ for my top picks!

10. Stroll Through One of Vienna’s Markets

Spring is the perfect time to wander through Vienna’s markets. I love the lively atmosphere, the fresh fruits and vegetables, and the beautiful spring flowers.

The Naschmarkt is the city’s most famous market, offering a huge variety of international specialties and plenty of restaurants. I especially enjoy the farmers’ market on Saturdays.

The Karmelitermarkt in the 2nd district is the complete opposite, it’s much smaller, with a relaxed and cozy vibe. It’s the perfect place for a leisurely morning stroll, browsing the stands, and enjoying a small breakfast at one of the cafés.

I also really like the Kutschkermarkt in Währing. It may be small, but it has lovely restaurants, market stalls, cozy cafés, fresh produce, and beautiful flowers.

11. Take a Day Trip to the Wachau for the Apricot Blossom

A day trip to the Wachau during apricot blossom season is simply magical! Every year, between late March and early April, the region transforms into a sea of white and pink blossoms. It’s the perfect setting for a walk or a bike ride along the Danube. Or how about a boat trip to admire the blooming landscape from the water? There are even special apricot blossom cruises available!

Tip: The full bloom lasts only a short time and depends on the weather, so it’s worth checking the Apricot-Webcam to track the current blossom status.

But even outside of apricot blossom season, the Wachau is a fantastic spring destination! There’s so much to see and do – explore charming towns like Dürnstein, Weissenkirchen, Spitz, Krems, or Melk, or visiting stunning landmarks like the Aggstein castle ruins or Göttweig Abbey.

Spring in Vienna is simply beautiful: the city comes to life, outdoor seating returns, and there’s so much to explore. Whether you’re strolling through blooming parks, visiting Easter markets, soaking up the first warm rays of sunshine, or taking a trip into nature, spring is the perfect time to experience Vienna.

Which of these tips are you most excited to try?