Vienna is moderately expensive, but good value compared with other Western capitals. Coffee houses, excellent public transport and many free sights keep costs manageable.
Is Vienna expensive?
Expensive for most visitors. Vienna is moderately expensive, but good value compared with other Western capitals.
Money, cards and tipping
Currency: Euro (€). Cards are widely accepted, though some coffee houses and small shops prefer cash.
Tipping: Round up or add 5–10% in restaurants and cafés; say the total when you pay.
Where to save money
- Buy a 24, 48 or 72-hour public transport pass.
- Eat at a Würstelstand (sausage stand) or the Naschmarkt.
- Buy standing-room tickets for the State Opera on the day.
- Order a single coffee and linger in a traditional coffee house.
- Walk the Ringstrasse for free views of the palaces and the Parliament.
Where it is worth spending
- A performance at the State Opera or a concert.
- A guided Schönbrunn Palace tour.
- A Sachertorte at Hotel Sacher.
Free things to do in Vienna
- The Schönbrunn gardens
- St Stephen's Cathedral's interior (nave)
- The Naschmarkt and the Ringstrasse
- The Prater park
Prices, ticket rules and safety conditions change. Treat this as a starting point and check official sources and your government's travel advice before you go.
Vienna budget questions
What currency is used in Vienna?
Euro (€). Cards are widely accepted, though some coffee houses and small shops prefer cash.
Is tipping expected in Vienna?
Round up or add 5–10% in restaurants and cafés; say the total when you pay.
How can I save money in Vienna?
Buy a 24, 48 or 72-hour public transport pass. Eat at a Würstelstand (sausage stand) or the Naschmarkt. Buy standing-room tickets for the State Opera on the day.