Secession Building
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About
Built in 1897 as the exhibition hall for the Secessionist art movement, this building is a manifesto of 'Jugendstil' (Art Nouveau). Its iconic golden dome of laurel leaves is affectionately called 'the golden cabbage' by locals. The motto above the entrance, 'To every age its art, to every art its freedom,' still guides its mission. Expert recommendation: The basement houses Gustav Klimt's 'Beethoven Frieze,' a monumental 34-meter long cycle of paintings that is a cornerstone of Viennese Modernism. Practical pro tip: The main hall features rotating contemporary exhibitions that can be quite avant-garde. If you are only there for the Klimt, check the website to ensure that section is open during your visit.
Highlights
- Golden leaf 'cabbage' dome
- Klimt's Beethoven Frieze
- Art Nouveau masterpiece
- Contemporary avant-garde exhibitions
Amenities
Nearby Attractions
Vollpension
Vollpension is a unique social enterprise where 'grandmas' and 'grandpas' bake traditional cakes and serve guests in a cozy, vintage-styled living room atmosphere. The goal is to bridge the generational gap and combat old-age poverty. The sensory experience is like visiting your grandmother’s house—smelling of cinnamon and fresh sponge cake. Expert recommendation: Their 'Bananenschnitte' or the classic Cheesecake are must-tries. Practical pro tip: They have a unique 'pay-by-time' or 'pay-per-piece' system for coffee and cake; clarify your choice when you sit down. It is extremely popular for weekend brunch, so booking a table online is a smart move to avoid disappointment.
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Burggarten (Mozart Statue)
The Burggarten was originally the private garden of the Emperor, laid out in the English style. Today, its most visited attraction is the Mozart Monument, fronted by a flowerbed in the shape of a treble clef. The park also contains the Palmenhaus, a beautiful Art Nouveau glasshouse. The atmosphere is more intimate and refined than the neighboring Volksgarten. Expert recommendation: The Palmenhaus houses a butterfly house (Schmetterlinghaus) where you can walk through a tropical environment with hundreds of exotic butterflies. Practical pro tip: The terrace of the Palmenhaus cafe is one of the best spots in the city for an afternoon coffee, offering a perfect view over the park's greenery.
Kärntner Straße
This is Vienna’s primary pedestrian shopping artery, connecting the State Opera to Stephansplatz. While now dominated by international brands, it still retains several traditional Viennese establishments, such as J. & L. Lobmeyr glassware. The street is always bustling with street performers and tourists. Expert recommendation: Duck into the small side streets (like Annagasse) to find quieter, more authentic medieval architecture and charming coffee houses. Practical pro tip: Avoid the tourist-trap souvenir shops on the main drag; for more authentic Viennese crafts, visit the Dorotheum auction house nearby. The street is best visited in the early evening when the shops are still open and the streetlights come on.
Café Sperl
Opened in 1880, Café Sperl is one of the most authentic and least 'touristy' of the great historic cafes. It has preserved its original interior with billiard tables, bentwood chairs, and sun-faded parquet floors. The atmosphere is quiet and intellectual, perfect for reading a newspaper for hours. Expert recommendation: The 'Sperl Torte' is a delicious milk chocolate and almond creation that rivals the Sacher. Practical pro tip: Note that Sperl is one of the few cafes that is closed on Sundays during the summer months (July and August). It is located near the MuseumsQuartier, making it a great escape from the busier museum cafes.
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