Can You Recognise Vienna From These Old Pictures?
Take a trip back in time with the following images of Vienna and for those that also have a more recent photo, compare them to the historical photographs. Not only do these amazing photographs depict how the Austrian capital has developed over the years, some of the more recent photos also illustrate how some areas have remained strikingly similar to the way they were decades—if not centuries—ago.
Karls Church c.1965
Erected in 1737, this iconic Baroque church has undergone various reconstructions in its lifetime. This photograph shows the area in the 1960s, before the addition of the Henry Moore sculpture in the fountain.
Karls Church today
Praterstrasse c. mid 20th century
This prominent street in the 2nd District is full of traffic and pedestrians today, in stark contrast how quiet it appears to have been many years ago.
Augarten c.1900
Margaretenstraße c.1966
Apollo Kino c.1950
This cinema opened its doors in the 1920s. One of the largest cinemas in all of Austria, it continues to be one of the most prominent landmarks on Gumpendorfer Straße.
Mariahilferstrasse c. early 20th century
One of Vienna’s busiest pedestrianised shopping strips, this photograph shows the area before World War II.
St. Stephen’s Cathedral c.1863
With countless architectural additions, St. Stephen’s Cathedral has changed dramatically over the years. Much of it was destroyed during World War II—including the iconic mosaic roof, which was later restored to its former glory.
St. Stephen’s Cathedral today
Palmenhaus in Schönbrunn c.1910
The Palmenhaus today
Donaupark c. mid 20th century
Belvedere Palace c.1875
As visible from these photographs from the past and present, this Imperial structure has remained largely unchanged since its construction.
Belvedere Palace today
The Vienna State Opera House c.1861
Now one of Vienna’s most iconic landmarks, these photographs show the mammoth construction site in 1861 and the magnificent building after its completion.
Vienna State Opera House today
A Bird’s Eye View of Vienna: then
A Bird’s Eye View of Vienna: today
Prater c.1950
Originally a hunting ground for the Viennese royals, the Emperor declared the park to be freely available to the public in 1766.
Prater Amusement Park today
Neubaugasse c. early 20th century
Now one of the city’s trendiest areas, this photo depicts the street of Neubaugasse in quainter times.
Haus Des Meeres c. mid 20th century
Constructed by Hitler during World War II, this Nazi Flak tower in the 6th District is now the city’s public aquarium.
Haus Des Meeres today
Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.
Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.
Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.
Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.
We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.
Culture Trip Spring Sale
Save up to $1,100 on our unique small-group trips! Limited spots.
- Post ID: 1528285
- Sponsored? No
- View Payload