St. Stephen's Cathedral

The St. Stephen's Cathedral (Steffl, as the Viennese say) is Vienna's landmark and one of the most significant Gothic structures in Europe. It has stood in the heart of the city since the 12th century—the current building largely dates from the 14th and 15th centuries. The South Tower rises 136.4 meters into the sky and was the tallest building in Austria for centuries.

What is there to see?

• South Tower (Old Steffl): 343 steps—a narrow spiral staircase that narrows further as you ascend. The reward: a 360° panorama over Vienna—Ringstraße, Prater, Danube, Vienna Woods. On clear days, you can see the Alps. Admission: €6.
• North Tower (Pummerin): Accessible by elevator—here hangs the Pummerin, Austria's largest bell (21 tons). It rings only on special occasions—New Year's Eve, state events. Admission: €6.
• The Roof: 250,000 colored glazed tiles form the characteristic pattern—the double-headed eagle and the Vienna city coat of arms. Best viewed from the surrounding rooftop terraces.
• Catacombs: Beneath the cathedral stretch the catacombs with the remains of 11,000 Viennese and the entrails of the Habsburg emperors (the hearts lie in the Augustinian Church, the bodies in the Capuchin Crypt—the Habsburgs liked to distribute their mortal remains). Tour: €6.50, every 15–30 min.
• Interior: The Gothic nave with the Wiener Neustädter Altar (1447), the Baroque pulpit, and the tomb of Emperor Frederick III. Entrance to the nave: free.