Graben, Vienna - A dirt road going through a field under a cloudy sky
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Graben Vienna

4.8
·578 reviews·Wien, Austria

Vienna's elegant pedestrian street, famed for its historic architecture, the Pestsäule, and upscale shopping.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
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Graben, Vienna - A dirt road going through a field under a cloudy sky

Graben Vienna

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Vienna's elegant pedestrian street, famed for its historic architecture, the Pestsäule, and upscale shopping.

4.8
(578 reviews)

"Graben is a must-see pedestrian street in Vienna, perfect for leisurely strolls and soaking in the city's grandeur."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚶‍♀️ Walk the Graben

This pedestrian street is best explored on foot. Enjoy the architecture and atmosphere without traffic noise.

☕ Coffee Break Bliss

Stop at a traditional Viennese cafe for coffee and cake. A quintessential experience!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Pestsäule (Plague Column)

Pestsäule (Plague Column)

Graben Street

An ornate Baroque monument commemorating the end of the Great Plague. A true centerpiece of the street.

Chic Boutiques and Cafes

Chic Boutiques and Cafes

Along Graben Street

Indulge in high-end shopping or enjoy a coffee break at one of the many elegant establishments.

Historic Architecture

Historic Architecture

Graben Street

Admire the stunning facades of 18th and 19th-century buildings, showcasing Vienna's imperial grandeur.

Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Stroll

Graben is a pedestrian-friendly street, perfect for leisurely walks. Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be doing a lot of exploring on foot. Many shops and cafes line the street, offering a chance to rest and soak in the atmosphere.

Timing is Key

While Graben is lively throughout the day, visiting in the early morning or late evening can offer a more serene experience, avoiding peak tourist crowds. Consider visiting during festive seasons for special decorations.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Evening strolls
Why
Beautifully lit, romantic ambiance
Crowd
Medium
When
Holiday seasons
Why
Magical decorations and festive spirit
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

These places in Vienna are SO underrated👇🏻 1. Palais Ferstel Once home to Vienna’s Stock Exchange and National Bank, Palais Ferstel now houses elegant cafés and boutiques, offering a nostalgic glimpse into the grandeur of 19th-century Vienna, perfect for those drawn to the atmospheric and scholarly essence of dark academia. 2. Griechenkirche zur Heiligen Dreifaltigkeit This historic Greek Orth...
@tobi.eulerrolle
268.2K likes • 2.5M views

🚶‍♀️ Walk the Graben

This pedestrian street is best explored on foot. Enjoy the architecture and atmosphere without traffic noise. Instagram

☕ Coffee Break Bliss

Stop at a traditional Viennese cafe for coffee and cake. A quintessential experience! Reddit

When Swiss meets Vienna 🫶🏽 @Sivitha Manjaly #stephansplatz #viennaphotospot #vienna #mallu #mallugirls
@c.roseee.m
71.5K likes • 1.1M views
Strolling through Vienna’s Inner City as the evening unfurls, with Strauss’s ‚Blue Danube Waltz‘ swirling in the air, creating a melody that dances with the shadows and light ✨🏛️🎶 The historic streets and baroque buildings come alive in a timeless waltz, echoing the city’s rich musical heritage, under a sky painted with the soft hues of twilight 🤍✨ ⬇️ Places in the Reel 🎞️ 📍Graben 📍Hofburg / Mi...
vienna_visitas
89.7K likes • 1.4M views

📸 Photo Opportunities

The Pestsäule and surrounding buildings offer fantastic photo ops, especially during golden hour. Instagram

💰 Cash is King

Some smaller shops might not accept cards, so carry some cash. TikTok

When you stroll on Graben Street, Vienna, and listen to Mozart💗 📍Column of Pest 🐎Horse carriages 📍St. Peter’s Catholic Church . . . #travelvienna #viennanow #vienna_city #viennapalace #viennatravel #viennatourism #viennacity #vienna2023 #viennaaustria #viennablogger #viennagram #viennabeauty #viennaflowers #austriagram #austriatravel #austriavacations #discoveraustria #discovervienna #summervien...
visitviennacity
626 likes • 13K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚶‍♀️ Walk the Graben

This pedestrian street is best explored on foot. Enjoy the architecture and atmosphere without traffic noise. Instagram

☕ Coffee Break Bliss

Stop at a traditional Viennese cafe for coffee and cake. A quintessential experience! Reddit

📸 Photo Opportunities

The Pestsäule and surrounding buildings offer fantastic photo ops, especially during golden hour. Instagram

💰 Cash is King

Some smaller shops might not accept cards, so carry some cash. TikTok

🚫 No Jaywalking!

Be mindful of traffic rules; jaywalking can result in fines. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.8
(578 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about Graben's central location and stunning architecture, calling it a must-see pedestrian street in Vienna. The Pestsäule is a highlight, and the abundance of shops and cafes makes it perfect for leisurely strolls. Some find it can get crowded during peak times.

"Graben is super busy but has everything you need—shops, cafes, and that lively city vibe! A must-visit spot for shopping lovers."

Alona Suarez

"First time in Vienna, very impressive but the place very crowded"

urszula piliszek (Ulalax)

"Such a lovely, lively and posh street right in the heart of Vienna. The buildings are absolutely beautiful - stunning architecture everywhere you look. The street is lined with high-end shops like Burberry, Louis Vuitton, Rolex, and Prada, and the Louis Vuitton building in particular is especially gorgeous.
When we visited, there was live street music playing, which really added to the atmosphere and made the whole experience even more enjoyable.
It’s the perfect place to stroll, take in the sights, do a bit of shopping, or simply relax at a café. And it’s just a short walk from St. Stephen’s Cathedral, so it fits easily into a day of exploring central Vienna."

Highway Video

What People Like

Beautiful architecture
Central location
Pedestrian-friendly

What People Dislike

Can be crowded

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Graben is centrally located in Vienna's first district and is easily accessible by public transport. The U1 and U3 subway lines stop at Stephansplatz, a short walk away. Numerous tram and bus lines also serve the area. TikTok+1

Yes, Graben is a pedestrian-friendly street, making it ideal for walking and exploring at your own pace. Instagram

While Graben itself is a pedestrian zone, there are parking garages nearby. However, walking is highly recommended to fully experience the street. Reddit

Instead of the CAT train, take the S7 train to the city center for a more budget-friendly option. TikTok+1

Absolutely! Graben is within walking distance of many major Vienna attractions like St. Stephen's Cathedral and Hofburg Palace. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Graben Street is a public thoroughfare and is free to access. You only need tickets for specific attractions or shops you choose to enter. TikTok

Graben is always open as it's a public street. Shops and cafes along the street have their own operating hours, typically from morning to evening. Instagram

The Pestsäule (Plague Column) is an outdoor monument and is free to view. Instagram

Yes, many walking tours of Vienna's city center include a stroll along Graben, offering historical insights. TikTok

Early weekday mornings are generally less crowded. Evenings can also be pleasant, especially when the street is lit up. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The Pestsäule is a must-capture landmark. The ornate building facades and charming side streets also offer great photographic opportunities. Instagram+1

Yes, photography is generally allowed on Graben Street for personal use. Be respectful of private businesses and individuals. Instagram

Golden hour (shortly after sunrise or before sunset) provides beautiful lighting for capturing the architecture. Evenings offer a romantic ambiance with the streetlights. Instagram

While generally permitted, avoid intrusive photography of individuals or private property without consent. TikTok

Drone usage is typically restricted in city centers due to privacy and safety regulations. It's best to check local ordinances before flying a drone. TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Graben and its surrounding streets offer a wide range of dining options, from traditional Viennese cafes to international cuisine. Look for 'Würstelstände' for quick, local sausages. TikTokReddit

Sausages (Würstel), Wiener Schnitzel, Sachertorte, and Apfelstrudel are classic Viennese treats. Enjoy them at a local cafe or restaurant. Reddit

Yes, look for 'Würstelstände' (sausage stands) for affordable and delicious local snacks. Bakeries also offer reasonably priced pastries. TikTokReddit

While many establishments accept cards, some smaller cafes or market stalls might prefer cash. It's wise to have some Euros on hand. TikTok

Eis Greissler is a popular ice cream shop known for its delicious, artisanal ice cream, often recommended for a sweet treat after exploring. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Graben is a wonderful place for families to explore, thanks to its pedestrian-friendly nature. Kids will enjoy the open space to walk around and the impressive Pestsäule monument. Consider stopping for ice cream at a place like 'Eis Greissler' for a sweet treat. Reddit The surrounding streets also offer opportunities for window shopping and people-watching, keeping younger visitors engaged. Remember to keep an eye on children, especially near busy areas, and always use designated crosswalks. TikTok

💰 Budget Travelers

Graben itself is free to explore, and you can enjoy its atmosphere without spending a fortune. Look for affordable snacks like sausages from 'Würstelstände' or pastries from local bakeries. TikTokReddit Opt for the S7 train from the airport instead of the CAT for significant savings on transport. TikTok+1 Many of Vienna's most impressive sights, including the Pestsäule, are visible from the street and require no admission fee. TikTok

📸 Photographers

Graben offers a wealth of photographic opportunities. The Pestsäule is a striking subject, especially during the golden hour. Instagram+1 The ornate facades of the historic buildings provide a beautiful backdrop, and the street's lively atmosphere can be captured in candid shots. Consider visiting in the early morning for fewer crowds and softer light, or in the evening when the street is beautifully illuminated. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Graben: A Historic Heartbeat

The Graben, meaning 'ditch' in German, has a history stretching back to Roman times when it was part of the Roman settlement Vindobona. Its transformation into a grand boulevard began in the 17th century, evolving into the elegant pedestrian street it is today. The street is renowned for its stunning architecture, a blend of Baroque and Art Nouveau styles, reflecting Vienna's imperial past. It's a place where history whispers from every ornate facade and cobblestone. Instagram+1

At the heart of Graben stands the Pestsäule (Plague Column), a magnificent Baroque monument erected in the late 17th century to commemorate the end of the Great Plague. This intricate sculpture is a testament to the artistry of the era and a significant landmark for visitors. The street also boasts high-end boutiques, luxury stores, and traditional Viennese cafes, making it a vibrant hub for both shopping and cultural immersion. Instagram+1

Many visitors find Graben to be a perfect starting point for exploring Vienna's city center. Its central location means it's easily connected to other major attractions like St. Stephen's Cathedral and the Hofburg Palace. The pedestrian-friendly nature of the street encourages leisurely exploration, allowing visitors to truly absorb the grandeur and atmosphere of Vienna. TikTokReddit

Navigating Vienna's Public Transport

Vienna boasts one of the world's most efficient public transportation systems, making it easy to get around the city and reach Graben. The U-Bahn (subway), trams, and buses are reliable and cover most areas. For visitors arriving at Vienna Airport, taking the S7 train is a more economical choice than the CAT train, offering similar travel times and direct access to the city center. TikTok+1

Tickets for public transport are generally affordable and can be purchased at stations or through the Wiener Linien app. A single ticket allows for travel on all modes of transport within the designated zones. Many travelers recommend purchasing a day pass or a multi-day pass if you plan on using public transport frequently. This saves money and the hassle of buying individual tickets. TikTok

When exploring Graben and its surroundings, remember that jaywalking is strictly prohibited and can lead to fines. Always use designated crosswalks to ensure your safety and avoid penalties. TikTok The ease of public transport means you can park further out or rely solely on it, making your visit to Graben and other central attractions seamless. TikTok+1

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