City Trips along the Danube with A-ROSA River Cruises

Fall under Vienna’s spell. Buildings steeped in history, heavenly gardens and parks as well as a number of museums make the Austrian capital an exclusive travel destination.

The traditional coffee culture invites you to taste a Wiener Melange (‘Viennese blend’) with a sweet Sachertorte in the afternoon. In the evening, you can dine in the Wiener Riesenrad – a Ferris wheel – over a romantic candlelight dinner above the rooftops of the metropolis or enjoy classical music at the State Opera. Even more delicacies and a multifaceted range of cultural activities await you in this European metropolis. 

And the thing that also makes Vienna special as the regional capital of Austria: The First Viennese School. Practically no other city has spawned as many world-famous composers and thus contributed its part to the great masterpieces of Classical music.

Travelling to Vienna by ship

Step on board the A-ROSA cruise ships and discover the city of Vienna from the river.

You will dock directly in the centre of Vienna during a Danube cruise with the A-ROSA BELLA, the A-ROSA DONNA, the A-ROSA MIA, the A-ROSA RIVA and the A-ROSA FLORA. You can reach the centre of the metropolis by foot; walk in the footsteps of Empress Sisi and explore the ostentatious lifestyle of the House of Habsburg. In the evening, A-ROSA pampering awaits you. Reflect on the day’s events during a massage in the spa or a culinary highlight at our high-quality buffets while the ship gently sets off to the next port along the Danube. City trips could not be any more relaxed.

DanubeLinzEngelhartszellMelkKremsViennaViennaBratislavaBratislavaEsztergomBudapestBudapestKalocsaNovi SadBelgradeBelgradeRuseBucharestBucharestTulceaSulinaOltenițaMohácsPassauConstantaGiurgiuTurnu Severin
Route map of the Danube without ports

A-ROSA River Cruises to Vienna

Excursions in Vienna

28 excursions found

In the footsteps of the Habsburgs or the Babenbergs, our young guests go on a journey of discovery with experienced guides through the winding corridors and magnificent rooms of the monastery and become acquainted with works of art from the Middle Ages to the present day. Together with your family, you will ascend the Emperor's Staircase to the private apartments of Emperor Charles VI. There are many details to discover and the traces of a great family to follow. Children discover history and art in a playful and enjoyable way.

port:
Vienna
price:
€ 59.00
duration:

approx. 3.5 Hours

transport:
Bus and walking
level:
Moderate

A stay in Vienna would not be complete without a visit to a Heuriger (traditional wine tavern). Located within the city limits but with rural character, the picturesque old winegrowing villages even win over the Viennese. On a private excursion for up to 5 people, we take you to a Heuriger. During a guided tour through the wine cellar, you will, of course, also get to taste some wines. Enjoy a relaxed stay, with a cosy atmosphere, delicious wine and typical specialities such as house bread with Liptauer, Grammelschmalz and cheese.

port:
Vienna
price:
€ 799.00
duration:

approx. 4.5 Hours

transport:
Private Minivan/car and walking
level:
Moderate
Hint:
This excursion is only bookable on request. We recommend that you make a reservation online.
Hint:
This excursion is only bookable on request. We recommend that you make a reservation online.

How did Empress Elisabeth, also known as Sisi, Emperor Franz Joseph and Maria Theresa actually live back then? Once a summer residence, later the year-round residence of the emperor, Schönbrunn Palace is an integral part of Vienna's history. It has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1996 and holds valuable insights for you.

port:
Vienna
price:
€ 89.00 per person
duration:

approx. 3.5 Hours

transport:
Bus and walking
level:
Moderate

Come with us on a journey of discovery - under as well as above ground!

An adventure for young and old awaits you in the unique underground world of the Hinterbühl lake cave and Lichtenstein Castle. The lake grotto has been designated a natural monument and is home to Europe's largest underground lake. During a boat trip across the lake, you will learn all about the extraordinary mining history and the mysterious labyrinth of galleries. After the boat tour, you will continue to Lichtenstein Castle, where the castle mascot "Lichti" will give you a warm welcome. Immerse yourself in the world of the Middle Ages and learn about life in a castle in a playful way.

port:
Vienna
price:
€ 79.00
duration:

approx. 5 Hours

transport:
Bus and walking
level:
Moderate
Hint:
Solid shoes required and a warm jacket recommended
Hint:
Solid shoes required and a warm jacket recommended

Explore Vienna together with us in comfort on an e-bike. We cycle along the Danube to the Freudenau lock and from here directly to the Danube Island, Vienna's favourite recreational area. You cycle back along quiet paths and enjoy a marvellous view of your A-ROSA cruise ship on the Reichsbrücke.

On board the A-ROSA DONNA and A-ROSA MIA, this excursion takes place on day 2. On board the A-ROSA BELLA and A-ROSA RIVA, the excursion takes place on day 3.

port:
Vienna
price:
€ 39.00 per person
duration:

approx. 1.5 Hours

transport:
depending on the weather, please contact reception in case of rain
level:
Sportlich
route length:
18
Hint:
Only takes place from March to October.

Experience Vienna in a different way: during this bike tour, you will get to know the metropolis and its surroundings from a completely different side. You cycle through the modern Danube city with its huge office buildings and the UN district in its heart. On Danube Island, you can enjoy the relaxing tranquility of this leisure paradise before we will soon reach lock Freudenau. Here, we cross the river and reach the world-famous Prater. The 4.4-kilometre-long main avenue lined with chestnut trees will take us to one of Vienna's famous landmark: the Ferris Wheel.

The excursion is offered on cruises in March and April 2026.

port:
Vienna
price:
€ 49.00 per person
duration:

approx. 3.5 Hours

transport:
depending on the weather, please contact reception in case of rain
level:
Sportlich
route length:
28
Hint:
Only takes place from March to October.

From mid-November to Christmas, some of Vienna’s loveliest plazas are transformed into magical Christmas markets. The fragrance of festive biscuits and hot punch never fails to put visitors in a festive mood. After a drive around the Ringstrasse – the city’s grand circular boulevard where you’ll see many of the best sights – you’ll take a stroll through Vienna’s centre and explore the Christmas markets. You’ll find one of the most attractive ones – the Christkindlmarkt – on the square in front of the Town Hall. There’ll be plenty of time to wander through the narrow passageways between the stalls and look for souvenirs and stocking-fillers before the bus takes you back to the ship.

port:
Vienna
price:
€ 59.00 per person
duration:

approx. 3.5 Hours

transport:
Bus and walking
level:
Moderate

Enjoy a nostalgic ride through the beautiful city of Vienna. Discover the city in comfort, protected from the elements in an electrically powered classic car that travels at a maximum speed of 10 km/h. Sit back and relax as you explore the city. After a short taxi ride into the city centre, your tour will begin and you’ll take in sights such as the Hofburg Palace, the Town Hall, the elegant street, Herrengasse and Stephansplatz Square. The classic cars are modelled on originals from the 1920s.

port:
Vienna
price:
€ 299.00 per Reservation for max. 4 people
duration:

approx. 1.5 Hours

transport:
Taxi, Oldtimer and walking
level:
Moderate
Hint:
This excursion is only bookable on request. We recommend that you make a reservation online.

Built according to plans of architect Otto Thienemann in the style of Palladian Classicism, the Palais Eschenbach was opened in 1872 by Emperor Franz Joseph I. Here you enjoy the concert of the Vienna Supreme Orchestra. The entire house is still preserved inside and outside in its original substance. The ballroom is the ceremonial room of the building due to its valuable wall and ceiling features.

port:
Vienna
price:
€ 79.00 per person
duration:

approx. 3.5 Hours

transport:
Bus and walking
level:
Easy
Hint:
Concert tickets only; transfer can be organised separately on board

Built according to plans of architect Otto Thienemann in the style of Palladian Classicism, the Palais Eschenbach was opened in 1872 by Emperor Franz Joseph I. Here you enjoy the concert of the Vienna Supreme Orchestra. The entire house is still preserved inside and outside in its original substance. The ballroom is the ceremonial room of the building due to its valuable wall and ceiling features.

port:
Vienna
price:
€ 65.00 per person
duration:

approx. 3.5 Hours

transport:
Bus and walking
level:
Easy
Hint:
Concert tickets only; transfer can be organised separately on board

Experience a very special experience in Vienna: a ride on a Viennese Fiaker (horse-drawn carriage) through the beautiful city centre. Let yourself be pampered with culinary delights during the trip and enjoy a three-course menu, served by your personal butler. The Viennese Fiaker have been specially rebuilt for this unique experience, so that you can comfortably enjoy the menu, champagne and wine during the ride. Listen to the horse's hooves on the cobblestone and watch many Viennese sights passing by.

port:
Vienna
price:
€ 799.00
duration:

approx. 1.5 Hours

transport:
Vienna Fiaker (Carriage) and walking
level:
Moderate
Hint:
This excursion is only bookable on request. We recommend that you make a reservation online.
Hint:
This excursion is only bookable on request. We recommend that you make a reservation online.

Get active and go on an exciting journey of discovery together with the whole family. What is this trail all about or why was a spy window actually needed back then? Almost 2,000 years of Viennese history are within reach. It's the details that reveal so much - sharpen your eye and experience Vienna as a history detective!

Only available on the following cruises, if the minimum number of participants is reached before departure:
Danube City Panorama 02.04. | 25.07. | 08.08. | 17.08.2026

port:
Vienna
price:
€ 35.00 per person
duration:

approx. 3.5 Hours

transport:
Bus and walking
level:
Moderate
Hint:
This excursion will only take place if the minimum number of participants is reached before departure.

Get straight off the ship and explore the city at your own pace on an e-bike! With electric assistance, you can easily reach the most beautiful sights. Enjoy the freedom to decide where to stop and what to discover—at your own pace. A relaxed excursion full of impressions and exercise!

port:
Vienna
price:
€ 19.00 per person
duration:

approx. 3 Hours

transport:
Bicycle
level:
Sportlich

Get straight off the ship and explore the city at your own pace on an e-bike! With electric assistance, you can easily reach the most beautiful sights. Enjoy the freedom to decide where to stop and what to discover—at your own pace. A relaxed excursion full of impressions and exercise!

port:
Vienna
price:
€ 39.00 per person
duration:

approx. 3 Hours

transport:
Bicycle
level:
Sportlich

In the evening, Vienna unfolds a very special magic. Just the artfully illuminated magnificent buildings that you pass on the Ringstrasse. And then this sea of lights! You can enjoy a breathtaking view of the thousands of twinkling lights from the Kahlenberg. At its foot you will find the wine-growing village of Grinzing. In a typical wine tavern you enjoy the evening with two glasses of wine, delicious snacks and traditional Schrammel music.

port:
Vienna
price:
€ 79.00 per person
duration:

approx. 3.5 Hours

transport:
Bus and walking
level:
Easy
Hint:
Meals and drinks: 2x 1/4l wine, small appetizers

Do you fancy spending the whole day following in the footsteps of Empress Elisabeth, also known as Sisi? Or would you prefer to sample a bit of Viennese coffee-house culture, do a spot of shopping, take a ride in a horse-drawn carriage and then maybe head over to Danube Island? You decide exactly what you’ll do, always confident that you’re in good hands. Your personal tour guide will help you to explore Vienna exactly as you wish.

port:
Vienna
price:
€ 399.00 per Reservation for max. 5 people
duration:

approx. 3 Hours

transport:
german tour guide only
level:
Moderate
Hint:
This excursion is only bookable on request. We recommend that you make a reservation online.

Would you like to explore Vienna by yourself? Your private car for up to two people will take you to the exact sights that you want to see. You can also book an expert tour guide at the same time if you wish.

port:
Vienna
price:
€ 459.00 per Reservation for max. 2 people
duration:

approx. 3 Hours

transport:
Private car
level:
Easy
Hint:
This excursion is only bookable on request. We recommend that you make a reservation online.

Had an idea for a special tour? Your private people carrier for up to five people will take you to the exact sights that you want to see. You can also book an expert tour guide at the same time if you wish.

port:
Vienna
price:
€ 479.00 per Reservation for max. 5 people
duration:

approx. 3 Hours

transport:
Private Minivan
level:
Easy
Hint:
This excursion is only bookable on request. We recommend that you make a reservation online.

We take you on a discovery trip to the unique underground world of the lake cave and to the princely ancestral castle of Lichtenstein. The lake grotto has been designated a natural monument and is home to Europe's largest underground lake. On a boat tour across the lake, you will learn all about the extraordinary mining history and the mysterious labyrinth of galleries. Afterwards, continue to Lichtenstein Castle, where 900 years of castle history await you. Take a journey through time into the world of castles and immerse yourself in the history of the House of Lichtenstein.

port:
Vienna
price:
€ 79.00
duration:

approx. 5 Hours

transport:
Bus and walking
level:
Moderate
Hint:
Solid shoes required and a warm jacket recommended

Today, take a trip to the southern part of the 'Wienerwald' (Vienna Woods) - the place of the Viennese to relax and unwind. Our way leads us to 'Heiligenkreuz', the seat of the Cistercian monastery Heiligenkreuz, founded in 1133, which is famous for its Gregorian choir. The bus will then take you on a panoramic trip through the Vienna Woods to Mayerling. The place has been world-famous since a tragedy in 1889, when Crown Prince Rudolf, the only son of Emperor Franz and Empress Sissi, committed suicide here. The events of that night are still unexplained today. But don't just stroll along the paths of history on this excursion, but also enjoy the beautiful nature of these foothills of the Alps.

port:
Vienna
price:
€ 69.00
duration:

approx. 3 Hours

transport:
Bus and walking
level:
Moderate

Follow in the footsteps of world-famous musicians and experience the unique atmosphere of the Vienna Central Cemetery. The Vienna Central Cemetery has many faces: On the one hand, it is the last resting place, not least of Ludwig van Beethoven or Udo Jürgens, and the most important cemetery of Vienna. On the other hand, it is an impressive park and recreation area as well as a place of contemplation. This diversity makes it a very special sight in the city.

port:
Vienna
price:
€ 59.00 per person
duration:

approx. 3.5 Hours

transport:
Bus and walking
level:
Moderate
Hint:
This excursion is only offered on cruise with the A-ROSA DONNA and A-ROSA MIA.

When visiting Vienna, the coffee houses should not be left out. On a private tour you will experience the Viennese coffeehouse culture and everything that goes with it. Where does the delicious coffee come from, what roasts and varieties are used, and what is the celebration of coffee making all about? Trace the spirit of the old literati and artists and send your sense of taste on a journey of pleasure through the world of coffee in three of Vienna's best-known and most popular coffee houses.

port:
Vienna
price:
€ 999.00 per Reservation for max. 5 people
duration:

approx. 4 Hours

transport:
Car and walking
level:
Moderate
Hint:
This excursion is only bookable on request. We recommend that you make a reservation online.

On this tour, you will get to know Vienna's most historically significant sights. We will begin with a drive along the Ringstrasse with its magnificent buildings, such as the State Opera, the Museum of Art History and the Museum of Natural History, the Hofburg Palace, the Parliament Building, the city hall, the university, the stock exchange and past numerous palaces and monuments to famous composers, poets and artists. We will then continue to travel along the Prater with its famous Ferris Wheel to St. Charles's Church and the Viennese Music Association. One of Vienna’s landmarks can only be reached by foot due to its location – St. Stephen's Cathedral. After a brief tour of the outside, you will be taken back to your cruise ship.

port:
Vienna
price:
€ 59.00 per person
duration:

approx. 3.5 Hours

transport:
Bus and walking
level:
Moderate

This walk through Vienna will take you to some of the most precious treasures from different eras. In St Stephen’s Cathedral you can see the city's history. And even away from the magnificent squares and buildings, you will discover romantic streets and idyllic backyards. Experience the finest coffee house culture in one of Vienna’s most famous coffee houses, the Central or the Café Hofburg. Here you can enjoy a typical Viennese Melange and delicious pastries.

port:
Vienna
price:
€ 89.00
duration:

approx. 3.5 Hours

transport:
Bus and walking
level:
Moderate
Hint:
Meals and drinks: typical Viennese coffee and cake
Hint:
Meals and drinks: typical Viennese coffee and cake

Explore the city centre individually without using public transport. Our bus will take you to the city centre and will pick you up there as well. You will have enough time to explore the city centre around St. Stephen's Cathedral.

port:
Vienna
price:
€ 20.00
duration:

approx. 2.5 Hours

transport:
Bus and walking
level:
Easy
Hint:
Transfer only

Where Heaven and Earth meet, there is much to experience and discover. The Augustinian Klosterneuburg Monastery has witnessed over 900 years of history. Our guide will take you on an exciting tour to gain insights into the monastery’s religious and secular diversity. See the famous Verdun Altar, considered unique worldwide due to its artistic importance, technical merit and substance and meaning. You’ll have the opportunity to round off your visit with a wine tasting session, since Klosterneuburg Monastery is also Austria’s oldest winegrowing estate.

port:
Vienna
price:
€ 62.00
duration:

approx. 3.5 Hours

transport:
Bus and walking
level:
Moderate

Experience the special magic and calmness that alpacas exude on people. After getting to know each other, halter your companion and set off in the direction of sky meadows. As you walk across country lanes and meadows, you can enjoy a wonderful panorama and discover that the sky meadows live up to their name. During a short rest, you can fortify yourself and your alpaca friends and watch them graze. Enjoy the tranquillity before walking along woods to the end of the hike. Say goodbye to your new friends before heading back to the ship.

port:
Vienna
price:
€ 499.00
duration:

approx. 3.5 Hours

transport:
Minivan and walking
level:
Demanding
Hint:
This excursion is only bookable on request. We recommend that you make a reservation online.
Hint:
This excursion is only bookable on request. We recommend that you make a reservation online.

Experience Vienna like never before - completely relaxed and from a new perspective with a rickshaw ride through the imperial city! Let yourself be chauffeured comfortably through the picturesque streets and world-famous sights and enjoy the charm of Vienna while your personal driver takes you to the city's highlights. From the imposing St. Stephen's Cathedral to the magnificent Ringstrasse with its historic buildings such as the State Opera House and the Burgtheater, to the romantic alleyways of the old town - in a rickshaw you will experience the city up close and completely stress-free. You will have plenty of time to marvel at the sights at your leisure and savour the atmosphere of Vienna.

port:
Vienna
price:
€ 259.00 per Reservation for max. 2 people
duration:

approx. 2 Hours

transport:
Rickshaw and walking
level:
Easy
Hint:
This excursion is only bookable on request. We recommend that you make a reservation online.

The best Sights and Destinations in Vienna

Schönbrunn Palace in Vienna at sunset with reflecting fountain and baroque architecture

SCHÖNBRUNN PALACE

The palace – the residence of the famous Empress Sisi – has not only historical significance, but also a magnificent location and an opulent interior. Leopold I had had it built as a hunting lodge in the late 17th century. Half a century later, Maria Theresa had it expanded into a true Baroque palace. The living spaces of Sisi and Emperor Franz Joseph I, which have been preserved in their entirety, are particularly impressive. The adjoining palace garden, the palace theatre, the Viennese Neptune Fountain and the zoological garden are also worth a visit.

A family enjoys a sunny day in Viennas Prater Park, surrounded by green trees. In the background, there is a Ferris wheel.

THE PRATER AND THE FERRIS WHEEL

The Prater invites you to take a relaxed walk in the river landscape of the Danube. The spacious area is made up of idyllic meadows and forests. You will find the Wiener Riesenrad, a Ferris wheel, in the north-western part of the Prater. Enjoy Vienna from above and treat yourself and your nearest and dearest to a romantic evening dinner in one of the Ferris wheel’s luxurious gondolas. Every quarter of an hour, you will be served with new delicacies on ground level before you are lifted into the air again. Perfect for wedding days, those newly in love or happy couples.

Panoramic view of Vienna in sunshine with a view of St. Stephens Cathedral and St. Peters Church with its distinctive domed roof.

ST. STEPHEN´S CATHEDRAL

The opulent St. Stephen’s Cathedral is one of the landmarks of Vienna. Admire the architecture of this building that was consecrated in 1147, or listen to the sound of its 13 bells. Even today, exhibitions, weddings and religious services are still held in the cathedral. The 136-metre-high southern tower, an architectural masterpiece, rises up majestically from Vienna’s city centre. Locals lovingly call the epic construction ‘Steffi’. The cathedral is named after Saint Stephen, the first martyr of Christianity.

The Hofburg in Vienna with its distinctive dome and many people on the square in front.

HELDENPLATZ

Heldenplatz, situated at the outer Burgplatz, was designed by Emperor Franz Joseph I as part of the Kaiserforum (an architectural project at the Hofburg that was never realised). The name Heldenplatz (‘Heroes’ Square’) comes from the two equestrian monuments, both of which were created by Anton Dominik Fernkorn. The older of the two served as militaristic glorification of the dynasty. Shortly before the monument was unveiled, however, Austria was defeated by Italy in the Battle of Solferino. The monument is remarkable because the horse is depicted jumping up, so that only the two back legs are touching the base.

MARIA-THERESIEN-PLATZ

Take a relaxed stroll across Maria-Theresien-Platz. The square is situated opposite the Hofburg Imperial Palace at the Ringstraße (Ring Road). Especially worth seeing is the Maria Theresa monument, which was built in honour of the empress of the same name. Maria Theresa was the head of the Habsburg monarchy from 1740 to 1780. The sovereign monument is considered the most significant of its kind in Vienna. The Kunsthistorisches Museum (Museum of Art History) and the Natural History Museum frame Maria-Theresien-Platz and invite visitors on a cultural journey of discovery.

Eine Allee mit herbstlichen Bäumen führt zu einer Kirche mit Dachkuppel und Kreuz auf dem Wiener Zentralfriedhof.

VIENNA CENTRAL CEMETRY

The Vienna Central Cemetery is one of the largest in Europe, with a surface area of around 2.5 km2. Magnificent gates and impressive monuments await visitors in the vast park, in addition to the well-maintained graves. The Art Nouveau structures create a special atmosphere. Numerous ‘Ehrengräber’ (a distinction for extraordinary services and achievements) and honorary graves also make the cemetery attractive for visitors. Many great composers and poets found their final resting place here. Those buried at the Vienna Central Cemetery include Ludwig von Beethoven and Johann Strauss.

Das Wiener Opernhaus bei Nacht, beleuchtet mit goldenen Lichtern, umgeben von historischen Gebäuden und einem klaren Nachthimmel.

VIENNA STATE OPERA

The Vienna State Opera has a long tradition and still offers an interesting programme today. Talented ensembles and international stars put on excellent performances of various ballets and operas, accompanied by the State Opera Orchestra. The Vienna Opera House opened on 25 May 1869 in the presence of Sisi and Emperor Franz Joseph I. The building’s façade, with its elegant Neo-Renaissance architecture, has been preserved in its original form. Large parts of the building were damaged by bombing during the Second World War, and were later reconstructed.

VIENNA STADTPARK

The Vienna Stadtpark (City Park) has been adding a touch of beauty to the Austrian capital since around 1860. With a surface area of around 65,000 m2, it presents an attractive recreational area. It stretches from the 1st to the 3rd district in Vienna. The area used to contain the water glacis, which served as a place for amusement and relaxation. As well as diverse plants that blossom almost all year round, the vast park is home to magnificent monuments, fountains, a light installation and an elegant administrative building, as well as a Kursalon (music hall). The salon has been maintained in the style of the Italian Renaissance.