Stephansplatz, Vienna Overview

The ‘kilometer zero’ of the Austrian capital Stephansplatz is within easy walking distance from the Naschmarkt. A central shopping point in the city, the square is an important starting point for various other attractions. It was named after the St. Stephens Cathedral located in it.

The metro or U-Bahn station at Stephansplatz is one of the busiest in the world. It acts as a junction for many different metro lines and allows for easy access to popular tourist spots in the city. A witness to the changing times of the city, Stephansplatz is an integral part of Vienna’s history.

Located at a convenient distance from the mother church of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Vienna, the square is an essential spot during festivals and processions. The shopping district of Graben lies to the immediate South of Stephansplatz. Opposite to St. Stephens cathedral lies the Haas-Haus, a piece of striking modern architecture by Hans Hollein. Stephansplatz is easily the most happening area in the city of Vienna.

History of Stephansplatz

Originally only half the size, the square was expanded when a row of houses separating it from Stock-im-Eisen-Platz, today the two areas are considered one. Outside the original city walls the platz became part of the city in around 1200 but it wasn't until 1978 with the opening of the U-Bahn station that the square became central to the city.

Things to Do at Stephansplatz

1. St Stephan's Cathedral

st. stephan's cathedral, stephansplatz vienna — Source

St. Stephen's Cathedral is the symbol of Vienna. Construction commenced in the 12th century. Today, it is one of the most important Gothic structures in Austria and is counted among the tallest churches in the world. It is the second-biggest free-swinging chimed church bell in Europe. On the roof of St. Stephen's Cathedral, colourful roof tiles were laid to create the Royal and Imperial double-headed eagle and the coat of arms of the city of Vienna.

2. Diozesanmuseum

The Diocesan Museum of Rottenburg-Stuttgart is among the oldest institutions of its kind, and houses one of the most important collections of medieval art in the state of Baden-Württemberg. It was founded in 1862 by Joseph von Lipp, the Bishop of Rottenburg at the time.

Timings

Monday : Closed
Tuesday - Friday: 2 PM to 5 PM
Saturday: 10 AM to 1 PM and 2 PM to 5 PM
Sunday + Public Holidays: 11 AM to 5 PM

Tickets

Adults - EUR 3,50
Concessions (pupils, students, seniors) - EUR 3,00
Children (up to 12 years) - free

3. Kaffeemuseum Wien

coffee museum, stephansplatz vienna — Source

The fascinating Coffee Museum in Vienna is situated just off of Stephansplatz. It is a modern work of art for all the senses and has been since 1899. The Kaffeemuseum walks you through Vienna’s journey of coffee making, which the nation of Austria is incredibly proud of. The place even has its own patisserie where you can grab a cup of coffee while learning about its origins.

4. Karntnerstrasse

The main shopping street in central Vienna, Karntnerstrasse houses all sorts of shops, ranging from Starbucks to Swarovski. The street especially comes alive during Christmas time when all the shops are brightly lit, and every corner serves up a brew of Glühwein along with roasted chestnuts.

6. Graben

graben, shopping street, crowds, stephansplatz vienna — Source

A popular shopping street in the centre of Vienna, Graben is known for being one of the hottest fashion destinations in Europe. The origin of this street dates back to the old Romans, and it is surrounded by famous alleys, streets and places which stand for the typical flair, elegant tradition and gourmet pleasures.

7. Kohlmarkt

kohlmarkt, shopping street, crowds, stephansplatz vienna — Source

Translating to Coal Market, this shopping street has now become home to some of Vienna’s most opulent shops. Traditional jewellers like Wagner, Bucherer and Schullin, as well as resonant international luxury brands can be found here. The Golden U street also houses the Dorotheum, the world’s most venerable auction house.

Places to Eat at Stephansplatz

1. Haas & Haas

haas und haas, stephansplatz vienna — Source

A stone’s throw from the Cathedral, the Haas und Haas is a beautiful little café with a covered terrace seating area. Despite its prime location and an incredible view of Stephansplatz, the cafe is surprisingly peaceful. On the slightly more expensive side, this fine dining restaurant has excellent service.

2. Miznon

Serving primarily Israeli cuisine, the Miznon offers several vegetarian, vegan and gluten free options. Its central location makes the restaurant a busy place at nearly all hours of the day. A chef recommend is Miznon’s popular cauliflower dish.

3. Chamaleon

A fine dining restaurant located on the block behind St. Stephen’s Cathedral, Chamaleon does not disappoint. Specialising in Swiss, European and Central European cuisines, this vegetarian friendly restaurant is particularly known for its cheese fondue and its appelstrudel.

4. Do & Co Stephansplatz

do und co hotel, stephasplatz vienna — Source

Located on the top floor of the Do & Co hotel, there is no place more beautiful to relish Austrian cuisine. With the backdrop of Vienna's St. Stephen's cathedral and the culinary presentation of their dishes, this restaurant is one of Vienna’s finest. Among other flavours, Do & Co specialise in the savoury spices of Asia, the best of Sushi and Sashimi made from freshly caught fish.

5. Rinderwahn

A restaurant specialising in burgers, located 0.3 km from Vienna’s centre, Rinderwahn has become a local favourite. Prepared with a Viennese twist, even American classics feels like a whole new delicacy. With amazing service Rinderwahn has a quiet setting and a simple outdoor terrace on the pedestrian street.

6. Settimo Cielo

The roof top restaurant not only offers an incredible view over the city of Vienna but excellent service and a great menu of well prepared dishes. The location is in the very heart of Vienna, just around the corner of the St. Stephens cathedral. You have a choice of dining in the open air terrace or inside the air conditioned restaurant.

7. Demel Cafe

Demel, one of Vienna's most famous cafés, is located in this pedestrianized street of Kohlmarkt, off of Graben. This pastry shop and chocolaterie was established in 1786 and bears the title of a Purveyor to the Imperial and Royal Court. This busy café is known for its incredibly sumptuous looking array of cakes, pastries, and desserts and particularly the famous 'Sachertorte'.

Where to Stay at Stephansplatz

1. Drei Kronen Hotel City

drei kronen hotel, stephansplatz vienna — Source

Renovated only 5 years ago this is a historic building first constructed in 1897 by the Art Nouveau architect Ignaz Drapala.. Now run by the small local chain Adler, it is the closest to the actual square.

2. Carlton Opera

A modern, basic hotel in a historic building, the hotel is situated close to the Opera house, hence the name.

3. Kolping Wien Zentral

kopling wien, hotel, modern, stephansplatz — Source

An interesting hotel in a modern building if you are tired of 19th century architecture. The Kolping Wien Zentral is known for hosting lectures and seminars for art connoisseurs.

4. Hotel Beethoven Wien

hotel beethoven, stephansplatz vienna — Source

Just north of Stephansplatz, this hotel is dedicated to maestro Beethoven. Designed to give a historic Viennese experience this hotel is built in a Neo-renaissance style, and was constructed in 1902.

5. Wombats City Hostel

wombats hostel, stephansplatz vienna — Source

The only true hostel on the square itself is Wombats. Note they have three branches in the city so ensure you are booking the Naschmarkt branch. A low cost yet comfortable options, suited for students and young travellers.

How to Reach Stephansplatz

Metro: U1 and U3; station Stephansplatz

Bus: Stephansplatz U, Vienna Airport Bus Lines Stop, Hop on Hop off Vienna Sightseeing Bus

By Foot: Stephansplatz is in easy walking distance from the Naschmarkt, at a little over 1km it will take less than 20 minutes.