The ‘kilometer zero’ of the Austrian capital Stephansplatz is within easy walking distance from the Naschmarkt. A central shopping point in the city, the square is an important starting point for various other attractions. It was named after the St. Stephens Cathedral located in it.
The metro or U-Bahn station at Stephansplatz is one of the busiest in the world. It acts as a junction for many different metro lines and allows for easy access to popular tourist spots in the city. A witness to the changing times of the city, Stephansplatz is an integral part of Vienna’s history.
Located at a convenient distance from the mother church of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Vienna, the square is an essential spot during festivals and processions. The shopping district of Graben lies to the immediate South of Stephansplatz. Opposite to St. Stephens cathedral lies the Haas-Haus, a piece of striking modern architecture by Hans Hollein. Stephansplatz is easily the most happening area in the city of Vienna.
St. Stephen's Cathedral is the symbol of Vienna. Construction commenced in the 12th century. Today, it is one of the most important Gothic structures in Austria and is counted among the tallest churches in the world. It is the second-biggest free-swinging chimed church bell in Europe. On the roof of St. Stephen's Cathedral, colourful roof tiles were laid to create the Royal and Imperial double-headed eagle and the coat of arms of the city of Vienna.
The Diocesan Museum of Rottenburg-Stuttgart is among the oldest institutions of its kind, and houses one of the most important collections of medieval art in the state of Baden-Württemberg. It was founded in 1862 by Joseph von Lipp, the Bishop of Rottenburg at the time.
Timings
Monday : Closed
Tuesday - Friday: 2 PM to 5 PM
Saturday: 10 AM to 1 PM and 2 PM to 5 PM
Sunday + Public Holidays: 11 AM to 5 PM
Tickets
Adults - EUR 3,50
Concessions (pupils, students, seniors) - EUR 3,00
Children (up to 12 years) - free
The fascinating Coffee Museum in Vienna is situated just off of Stephansplatz. It is a modern work of art for all the senses and has been since 1899. The Kaffeemuseum walks you through Vienna’s journey of coffee making, which the nation of Austria is incredibly proud of. The place even has its own patisserie where you can grab a cup of coffee while learning about its origins.
The main shopping street in central Vienna, Karntnerstrasse houses all sorts of shops, ranging from Starbucks to Swarovski. The street especially comes alive during Christmas time when all the shops are brightly lit, and every corner serves up a brew of Glühwein along with roasted chestnuts.
A popular shopping street in the centre of Vienna, Graben is known for being one of the hottest fashion destinations in Europe. The origin of this street dates back to the old Romans, and it is surrounded by famous alleys, streets and places which stand for the typical flair, elegant tradition and gourmet pleasures.
Translating to Coal Market, this shopping street has now become home to some of Vienna’s most opulent shops. Traditional jewellers like Wagner, Bucherer and Schullin, as well as resonant international luxury brands can be found here. The Golden U street also houses the Dorotheum, the world’s most venerable auction house.
A stone’s throw from the Cathedral, the Haas und Haas is a beautiful little café with a covered terrace seating area. Despite its prime location and an incredible view of Stephansplatz, the cafe is surprisingly peaceful. On the slightly more expensive side, this fine dining restaurant has excellent service.
Demel, one of Vienna's most famous cafés, is located in this pedestrianized street of Kohlmarkt, off of Graben. This pastry shop and chocolaterie was established in 1786 and bears the title of a Purveyor to the Imperial and Royal Court. This busy café is known for its incredibly sumptuous looking array of cakes, pastries, and desserts and particularly the famous 'Sachertorte'.