What to do in Vienna for 12 hours.?

I will have a layover in Vienna For 12 hours, in July. How should I fill my time and get the most out of my short stay? (I will be with my 13-year-old daughter.) Thank you. I am not sure we want to spend our time following tours so any other suggestions would be appreciated.

There are trains going from the airport to the inner city (they're called CAT trains and the fare is 5 euros per person...just ask about them at the airport). Once in the city, find your way to the Ringstrasse. It surrounds the old part of the town, and in that area, there's lots of shopping and sightseeing (buildings, gardens, etc). Ask your way around for St. Stephen's Dome. In that area, there is so much to see. Just strolling around the city in the old part of town is enough by itself. There's always street performers there and tons of cafes and ice cream parlors. Make sure to bring your camera. you'll regret it otherwise!

Generally, everyone speaks English. The people there like American tourists unless they're too loud or obnoxious. Everyone will be happy to give you advice on where to find places or where to go. Pickpocketing is not a problem in Vienna. Expect to spend around 50-70 Euros on necessities like transportation, food, entrance fees, etc. Using the bathroom in restaurants, cafes, etc is usually free (but you have to order something). Tap water is also free (excellent water quality in Vienna!). I think you'll really enjoy your stay. Don't stress about seeing as much as possible in 12 hours. I think you'll enjoy just soaking in the atmosphere and following your own interests instead of doing some lame museum tour.

Another thing: there are a couple of English movie theaters in vienna. They are called "Artis" and "English cinema Haydn".

You can take a walk through downtown by the old museums, fountains and libraries; then catch a train to the 'Schloss Schonbrunn'. Leupold I had it built back in 1695 and it contained 1441 rooms when it was constructed and was later expanded by Empress Maria Theresa in 1744-49. The grounds are gorgeous this time of year and there's a restaurant on top of the hill overlooking the palace grounds and a huge fountain...eat lunch(very inexpensive!) have fun, I love Vienna!!!

enjoy ur stay in there.roam around and just enjoyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyy

Lena has given you very good information. Just a few tips on riding the metro. After buying your ticket remember to validate it at the automatic machine before getting on. Further these days Vienna isnt that safe from pickpockets. My friend, carrying dollars cash in her handbag, got neatly pickpocketed on the metro and didnt even know the handbag had been opened and the cash taken out. So watch out. That said, Vienna is one of the safest cities if you compare it to others. I have gone on the metros and just about anywhere in the city even around midnight and never had to worry about personal safety.