VIENNA-DAY 3 Part 1

This trip took place June 2026.

After fueling up with a hearty breakfast, my first stop was to make my way up to St. Stephen’s Cathedral. But first, let’s take in some of the local store fronts along the way.

There was no shortage of small, local and independently run shops and also what felt like an endless supply of sweet shops along the away where you could easily sample the local treats.

There is so much to take in as St. Stephen’s Cathedral is both massive and majestic. Be sure to walk around out side and see all the architectural inlaid sculptures. I’ll add those in the gallery below.

Being one who doesn’t like crowds I wanted to make sure that I was there early and one of the first in line. I had seen lots of pictures online, but as I have said before, nothing compares to experiencing it in real time.

The walk from our hotel was about 20-25 mins but seeing how I stopped to take pictures of store fronts, It may have taken me a little longer but I arrived at St. Stephen”s with about 10 mins to spare before the ticket desk was open.

You are allowed to roam about the main interior but I wanted the full experience so I paid the $29 euros for the all inclusive ticket which was absolutely worth it for me if you enjoy taking lots of pictures, enjoy a guided audio tour on your phone.

The all inclusive includes, the 25-30 minute crypt tour which was really cool. Literally “cool” I don’t remember what the temps were but I was a bit chilly. But being warmer and humid yesterday it was a delightful break.

Here’s the first round of interior shots…

The inclusive ticket also includes both the north and south tower access. The north tower has a tiny little elevator and I opted for that one as I just didn’t have the energy for the 250+ stairs to manually climb the south tower. Also my left foot might be bruised so I am taking things slower this trip.

Lastly, your ticket includes admission to the Dom Museum which has a mix of church artifacts from as early as the 15th century as well as some modern works as well.

Here’s another grouping of images. There are so many beautiful details here I just didnt want to miss anything.

We weren’t allowed to take pix in the CAtacomb’s tour and I decided to be respectful so sadly I don’t have any. But just imagine white arched caverns at the entry way below, lined with wooden caskets from the the 17th century filled with the bishops from this area.

There were also some all brick walled/lined catacombs as we went deeper with the screened off vaults filled with bones and skulls. Creepy but cool ! Our guide for the catacombs was great.

After that part was over I went to the north tower to check out the views.

This little gem is on the right hand side, in the back as you exit the building. I almost missed it had the doors not been open. I would have loved to have just sat in there for 15 mins to take it all in.

The inclusive ticket also includes both the north and south tower access. The north tower has a tiny little elevator and I opted for that one as I just didn’t have the energy for the 250+ stairs to manually climbed the south tower. Also my left foot might be bruised so I am taking things slower this trip.

Lastly, your ticket includes admission to the Dom Museum which has a mix of church artifacts from as early as the 15th century as well as some modern works as well.

I’ve tried to keep these in order as well as not overwhelm you with all the pictures I took. Like some 90+ frames shot.

Anyway, what a treat and a blessing to be able to spend time in a place that dates back to 1142.

Oh, they have daily mass that are open to the public. I may go back today or tomorrow and take one in.

Ok, first off, St Stephen’s Cathedral was amazing. I highly recommend to carve out three hours to really take it all in.

The Dom Museum Wien right next door to St. Stephen’s Cathedral shows precious church treasures and contemporary art.

The Dom Museum Wien houses the historic treasures of Vienna’s St. Stephen’s Cathedral and the archdiocese of Vienna as well as avant-garde classics from the collection of Otto Mauer. A highlight of the collection is the world-famous portrait of Duke Rudolf IV “the Founder” from the House of Habsburg (1339-1365): It is considered to the oldest, most realistic portrait in Western World and was probably created in around 1360. The painting is on permanent display in the Dom Museum Wien. Rudolf IV himself was buried in the catacombs of St. Stephen’s Cathedral, right next door to the museum.

Here are a few of the sculptural architectural pieces  that surround the exterior of St. Stephen’s Cathedral.

Well, this has been renovated and updated since we were here four years ago but man was the food delicious. Hard to beat fresh seafood and a great view. 

I would love to go back some day and enjoy an evening meal while the sun goes down.

Well this takes care of the daily activities while out on my own. Later this evening a special group dinner at a Michelin starred steak restaurant before we take in a private organ concert at St. Stephen’s Cathedral.