Hotels near St. Stephen's Cathedral

St. Stephen's Cathedral (Stephansdom) has anchored Vienna's skyline since the 12th century. Its south tower rises 136.4 metres above Stephansplatz - climb the 343 steps for a panorama that stretches from the Wienerwald hills to the Danube. The cathedral's multi-coloured chevron-patterned roof, made of 230,000 glazed tiles, is one of the most recognisable features of the city. Inside, the Gothic nave shelters the Wiener Neustadt Altar (1447), the carved stone pulpit by Anton Pilgram, and the catacombs where Habsburg organs are stored in copper urns.

Entry to the main nave is free, making this one of the best things to do in Vienna on any budget. The south tower climb costs EUR 6, the catacombs tour EUR 6.50 (guided only, runs every 15-30 minutes), and the north tower elevator EUR 7. The cathedral is open Monday to Saturday from 06:00 to 22:00 and Sunday from 07:00 to 22:00, though tourist visits are restricted during services. Stephansplatz station (U1/U3) exits directly onto the square - you cannot miss it.

Pro Tip: Climb the south tower between 08:00 and 09:00 before tour groups arrive. The staircase is narrow and passing oncoming traffic midway up is no fun. For a less strenuous alternative, the north tower elevator reaches a viewing platform at 68 metres with equally impressive rooftop views.