Vienna

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Vienna

Art and culture are embedded in the soul of Vienna: imperial splendour, world-class museums, opera and classical music heritage. Modernist legacy and a cosmopolitan flair add delicious contrast to the old-world charm. Walk down the parks and grand palace-lined Ringstrasse, experience the centuries-old cafe tradition and admire the astonishing architecture of a buzzing modern capital filled with history.

The City

Vienna is located on the Danube, just at the centre of Europe and near the north-eastern extension of the Alps, largely surrounded by the Vienna Woods. The city is world-famous for its magnificent imperial heritage, with the Schönbrunn Palace, the Belvedere and the Imperial Palace. The city is also appreciated around the world for its top-notch music and cultural offer with many renowned concert halls, museums and institutions — from the large Musikverein Hall to the prestigious Museum of Fine Arts and the Vienna State Opera. And let’s not forget that Vienna is considered one of the world's most liveable cities and has been awarded this distinction eighth times in a row, confirming the city's status as a metropolis for bon vivants and art lovers, offering its guests an abundance of unique attractions at any time of the year.

Top 7

Vienna is old, Vienna is new — and so varied: from the magnificent Baroque buildings and Art Nouveau masterpieces to the latest architectural achievements. Vienna is a city of beauty and art far beyond its imperial legacy: the city draws tourists with its dynamic mix of an imperial-nostalgic flair and an extremely creative cultural scene.

Unique Spots

Besides the many sights sought after by tourists, Vienna has something more to offer: there are many hidden gems in the city that often provide a deeper understanding of its history and a real insight into its current daily life. Here are a few tips to check out for an off-the-beaten-track trip to Vienna.

Sound of Music

Every evening thousands of enthusiasts gather in concert halls, big and small, to experience live classical music in Vienna. The city has a reputation as the “capital of classical music” largely owing to the immensely popular composers who lived and worked here in the late 18th and 19th centuries. During this period, numerous performance halls were built to accommodate the overwhelming boom of musical talent. Major music venues in Vienna include the State Opera House, the People's Opera House, the Burgtheater, and the Theater an der Wien. Pick a venue that suits your liking and schedule and let the art vibrate through you.

Do & See

Vienna has over 100 museums and countless examples of great architecture seamlessly combining old and new designs. When you've got enough sightseeing for the day, rest in one of the 280 parks and gardens scattered around the city.

Dining

The Austrian capital has a rich choice of great restaurants: from gourmet dining establishments perfect before (or after) a night at the opera to down-to-earth local eateries. First time visitors simply must try a hearty Kaisersemmel, traditional Viennese bread, or a Kaiserschmarrn, Austrian chopped pancakes dusted with powdered sugar. Vienna is the only metropolis in the world that grows a significant enough amount of wine within city limits, so prepare to find plenty of good local wines to match your Viennese dinners. The most popular time for dinner in Vienna is around 7 or 8 pm, so if that's when you plan to sit down for your dinner meal — book a table in advance.

Cafes

Since 2011, the traditional Viennese coffee house culture has been regarded as part of the intangible cultural heritage of UNESCO. Legend has it Vienna's café culture had its beginning back in 1683 when a sack of coffee beans was left behind by the retreating Ottomans. In the late 19th and 20th centuries, coffee houses became the go-to places for intellectuals and creatives, including the likes of Sigmund Freud, Gustav Klimt, James Joyce, and Leon Trotsky. Traditional cafes entice visitors with a wide variety of coffee-based specialities, heavenly pastry creations, and a unique cosy and friendly: Austrian gemütlichkeit. If you are in the mood for something more modern, there are hundreds of third-wave coffee places in Vienna.

Bars & Nightlife

A world-famous electronic scene, live music, relaxed cocktail bars and a top-notch cultural offer. A young scene of microbreweries, waterside bars along the Danube sides and retro bars populates the bohemian neighbourhoods and are the perfect places to spend a more relaxed evening. During the weekend, head towards one of the famous underground clubs.

Shopping

An original souvenir for friends at home or a pretty memento for yourself: shopping is an essential part of any stay in Vienna. From the many colourful markets and shops filled with countless mouth-watering Viennese specialties to design boutiques and luxury shopping experiences: whatever is your budget you'll find a sweet gift to bring back with you.

Tourist Information