Slightly outside the bounds of the Old City, to the northwest, lies the Ninth District. The buildings in this district are also impressive and ancient, and it is considered very popular among the young people living in the city. One of the reasons for this is that there is a very large campus of the University of Vienna right in the heart of the district. The campus is located in the old hospital complex (Allgemeines Krankenhaus), and is certainly large and beautiful.
Many tourists never enter this campus because one wouldn’t expect so much beauty to be hidden inside. Especially on spring days, it is worth walking there to enjoy the wonderful blooming of plants in the gardens between the campus buildings. During the Christmas season, the place transforms into a charming, hipster-style Christmas market. The campus is open 24/7 and the entrance is free.
Other Recommended Attractions in the Ninth District
1. Votivkirche (Votive Church)
The Votive Church is located close to the Ringstrasse. It’s hard to miss when passing through the Schottentor station area and near the old campus of the University of Vienna. The church was built by Archduke Ferdinand Maximilian as a gesture of gratitude to God for saving his brother, Emperor Franz Joseph, from an assassination attempt. The church began operating in 1879, the year the Emperor and his wife Sisi celebrated their silver wedding anniversary.
The Votive Church stands as a true architectural treasure of Vienna and ranks among the world’s most important churches thanks to its Neo-Gothic design. Despite its breathtaking beauty, it sometimes goes underappreciated, even though it was among the first structures built along the Ringstrasse. On Sundays, prayers take place inside, allowing visitors to step in and glimpse the magnificent interior. There is a lovely park surrounding the church, and in summer, there are comfortable chairs for visitors to relax. Because the park stands beside the main university, it is always lively with students. Read more information about the church in our detailed article.
Map: Rooseveltplatz, 1090 Wien
2. Altes AKH (The Old General Hospital Campus)
Once Vienna’s main hospital complex, this sprawling 17th-century site is now a peaceful university campus and a vibrant local hub. Thanks to the nearby university buildings, the leafy, car-free courtyards are filled with a bustling, youthful energy as students gather at the outdoor cafes and seating areas.
Pro Tip: In winter, the courtyards transform into one of the city’s most charming and popular Christmas markets, drawing locals looking for a cozy festive atmosphere away from the heavily touristed center.
Official Website
3. Pathological-Anatomical Collection in the Narrenturm
Located right on the grounds of the Altes AKH campus, the Pathological-anatomical collection in the Narrenturm (“Fool’s Tower”) is one of Vienna’s most unique and fascinating hidden gems. Built in 1784 as continental Europe’s first specialized psychiatric institution, this striking fortress-like circular building now houses an extensive medical collection. For travelers looking for something off the beaten path, it offers a gripping, unusual look at medical history, showcasing historical anatomical specimens and artifacts.
Official Website
4. Palais Liechtenstein (Liechtenstein Palace)
This palace building is one of two magnificent palaces belonging to the noble Liechtenstein family. The 18th-century palace showcases the Baroque style and divides into two buildings: the Upper and Lower Palaces. Between the buildings, there is a wonderful park. The palace rooms are strikingly beautiful, and the site regularly hosts important events. If you wish, you can also book a guided tour of the palace.
Official Website
Map: Fürstengasse 1, 1090 Wien
5. Sigmund Freud Museum
Just a few steps away from the Votive Church and the University of Vienna is the Sigmund Freud Museum. The museum is located in the home where Freud lived for 47 years, and focuses on the life and work of the founder of psychoanalysis. Read more about the Sigmund Freud Musum in our detailed article.
Official Website
