THINGS TO DO IN VIENNA

At Forward Festival, it’s never just about what happens on stage. We're here to create immersive experiences, not only during the talks and panels, but all around the cities we gather in. Vienna is where everything began and where Forward returns to every year for a decade. The city is a creative playground for curious minds, blending tradition and innovation.

So if you’re planning to extend your stay in Vienna before or after the festival this October, here’s your curated guide to make the most of your time in the city.

Food & Drinks: Where Flavors and Atmosphere Meet

Vienna’s culinary landscape is a dance between heritage and reinvention. Start with a classic: Glacislbeisl, one of the oldest restaurants in the city, or sip Wiener Melange with old-school charm at the traditional Viennese cafés Sperl and Hawelka.

If you're leaning modern, head to Mochi for Japanese fusion or Skopik & Lohn, where Viennese cuisine meets artful interiors. Craving a casual bite? Try Pizza Mari or Alles Wurscht.

In the mood for something special? Reserve a table at Mraz & Sohn, a Michelin-starred gem that’s all about bold, creative dishes. For drinks, the hidden Krypt Bar, Top Kino, or the historic Loos American Bar are perfect for winding down – or starting the night. And don’t skip Heuriger 10er Mari or Wieninger am Nussberg for a classic Viennese wine tavern experience with stunning views over the vineyards.

Parks & Outdoor Vibes – Slow Down and Soak It In

Between talks and parties, take a moment to exhale. Vienna’s parks and public spaces are an open invitation to pause and reset. Burggarten and Stadtpark offer calm in the city center – Stadtpark is right across from Gartenbaukino, perfect for a sunny intermission.

Wander along the Donaukanal or head to Augarten and Donauinsel if you’re craving more space and fresh air. And of course, the MuseumsQuartier Wien is not only home to some of the city’s top cultural institutions, but also a favorite local hangout.

Art & Culture: Fuel Your Inner Creative

It wouldn’t be a Forward city guide without some art. From the contemporary collection at Albertina Modern to the design focus at MAK, Vienna offers inspiration at every corner. Snap analog photos at Westlicht, dive into Vienna’s imperial past at Belvedere Museum, or explore the architectural gem that is the Otto Wagner Pavillon. For a taste of the city’s thriving gallery scene, swing by Galerie Kandlhofer for cutting-edge contemporary shows, discover bold curatorial voices at Kunsthalle Wien, and don’t miss Galerie Krinzinger – one of Vienna’s most renowned spaces championing international contemporary art.

Nightlife & Entertainment – From Indie Cinema to Dancefloors

When the sun sets, Vienna’s creative spirit takes on a different rhythm. Catch an arthouse film at Schikaneder or Gartenbaukino, grab a late-night bite at Hermann’s Würstelstand, or dance your way through Grelle Forelle, Praterstrasse, and Tanzcafé Jenseits.

Shops & Boutiques: Thoughtful Finds and Local Design

Looking to bring a bit of Vienna home? Browse the fanciest plant shop at Calienna or dig through fashion finds at Burggasse24. For books, design, and good vibes, Walther König and Apartment 8 are well worth a visit.