The best hop-on/hop-off bus tours in Vienna 2026
Want to explore Vienna at your own pace without missing any highlights? Then a hop-on hop-off bus tour in Vienna is just what you need! From grand palaces and historic squares to modern architecture – a bus tour gives you the perfect overview of the city, and you can simply hop off wherever you want to dive deeper.
In this article, we’ll show you the best providers for city tours in Vienna in 2025 – including tips on routes, tickets, and special extras.
1. Vienna Sightseeing Tour with Big Bus Tours Vienna
Want to explore Vienna without the hassle of Google Maps, long walks, or stress? Just hop on the bright red double-decker from Big Bus Tours Vienna and let the imperial city roll past your window! Whether it’s your first time or you’re getting to know Vienna even better – this hop-on hop-off tour is the perfect way to discover the city’s highlights at your own pace.
The audio guide shares fascinating stories along the way – from St. Stephen’s Cathedral and the Hofburg to Schönbrunn Palace – in eight different languages. Opt for the 48-hour pass and you’ll also get a guided walking tour included. A great way to dive into Vienna’s imperial history!
There are two routes – one through the city center and another to the grand sights a bit further out. Best of all: you can hop on and off at 14 stops whenever you like. So grab your camera, plug in your headphones, and off you go!
Quick facts:
- 24- or 48-hour ticket
- 14 stops, e.g. Opera, City Park, Schönbrunn Palace
- Audio guide in 8 languages
- Walking tour included with 48h pass
2. Hop-On Hop-Off Vienna with Vienna Sightseeing
Want to discover Vienna but not just any tour will do? Then Vienna Sightseeing might be your perfect match. For over 50 years, they’ve been showing visitors the best of the city – relaxed, well-organized, and with loads of local know-how. Whether you join a guided tour through the old town or explore flexibly with the hop-on hop-off bus – here, you create your own experience.
This is the largest hop-on hop-off network in the city, with up to 50 stops across 4 different lines. From Schönbrunn Palace to the UNO City, from the Prater to Grinzing – hop on and off as often as you like. And with audio guides in 19 languages, you won’t miss a thing.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even book trips to Salzburg, Hallstatt, or Budapest – but maybe start with a coffeehouse in the city center and enjoy the view of St. Stephen’s Cathedral from the open-top deck.
Quick facts:
- Market leader for city tours in Vienna since 1972
- Up to 4 lines and 50 stops in and around Vienna
- 24h, 48h, or 72h tickets
- Audio guide in 19 languages & free app
- Optional: boat tours & day trips to Salzburg, Bratislava & more
Vienna City Tour – Frequently Asked Questions
How does a hop-on hop-off bus work in Vienna?
You buy a ticket for 24, 48, or 72 hours and can hop on and off at any stop as often as you like during that time. This allows you to explore the city flexibly and at your own pace.
Which providers are available in Vienna?
The two main providers are Vienna Sightseeing (with the largest route network) and Big Bus Tours Vienna (with open-top double-decker buses). Both offer similar services but differ in extras like walking tours or multilingual audio guides.
How much does a bus tour in Vienna cost?
Prices start at around €39 (Vienna Sightseeing) and €42 (Big Bus) for a 24-hour ticket. Multi-day passes with additional features like walking tours can cost up to €59.
What sights can I see with the hop-on hop-off bus?
Highlights include:
- Museum of Art History
- Grinzing (summer only)
- St. Stephen’s Cathedral
- Schönbrunn Palace
- Hofburg Palace
- Belvedere Palace
- Prater & Giant Ferris Wheel
- Danube Tower
- UNO City
In which languages are audio guides available?
Vienna Sightseeing offers up to 19 languages, including German, English, Spanish, Turkish, Korean, and Russian. Big Bus offers 8 languages, including German and English.
Are the buses wheelchair accessible?
Most buses from both providers are wheelchair-friendly. It’s best to check with the specific provider in advance.
Can I cancel my ticket for free?
Yes. Both providers usually offer free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start time.
Are there discounts for children?
Yes, both companies offer discounted tickets for children. Family tickets are also available in some cases.