Known for its opulent architecture and impressive cultural past, Vienna’s visitors are sure to find new experiences at every turn. But with so much on offer, what are the best ways to make the most of a stay in the city, whether as part of a longer trip or a short break?
Tourists walking around the centre of the city will be impressed by the lavish gothic architecture of St Stephan’s Cathedral, which features some 12th- and 13th-century stonework that should not be missed. Alternatively, wander the museum quarter and see everything from Picasso to Warhol at Museum Moderner Kunst (MUMOK ).
Slightly outside the centre, the Belvedere Palace, once home to Austria’s ruling dynasty, now houses a stunning classical art collection and offers serene gardens through which to stroll on a sunny morning.
If you have a week or so staying in the city, why not learn the local language and practise your skills during your stay? You could take daily German lessons in Vienna, or if you are broadening your visit to other areas of Europe, you could even pick up a range of languages.
Of course, you may prefer to take the German or Spanish lessons London language schools offer before you actually get there. At London language school St Georges Spanish courses and German courses are run on a flexible schedule so anyone can brush up on the essentials before their next trip, whether it’s to Madrid or Vienna.
You may not think that Vienna is a top choice for international shopping, but when it comes to markets, it rivals Amsterdam’s flea markets or London’s Brick Lane!
The daily Naschmarkt takes browsers on a culinary journey through local and exotic foods and is situated on the Wien river. Each Saturday, the Flohmarkt (flea market) is a chance to get stuck in with a range of treasures and trash – from clothes to antiques, you never know what you could find.
After a busy day of walking, shopping or even studying, you’ll deserve a tasty treat. Whether a savoury snack will fill a hole or you have more of a sweet tooth, you’re sure to find something great to eat in Vienna.
Some of the savoury delicacies include Wiener Schnitzel, veal with breadcrumbs, with Erdäpfelsalat, a potato-based salad. Or who could refuse a delicious Apfelstrudel for dessert? Alternatively, if you don’t feel like a full meal, why not while away the hours in one of Vienna’s famous cafes in the tradition of writers and poets throughout history?
Vienna is not just famous for its literary past. Any visitor to the city would be hard pressed to find a more authentic experience than attending a classical concert featuring music by one of the many composers who have called Vienna home over the centuries. For a classical experience, why not listen to some Joseph Haydn (1732-1809) who lived in the city from the age of eight? Or go to hear the music of the most famously tragic composer of all, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart (1756-1791), whose prolific career was cut short at a relatively young age.
Between marvelling at the sights and snapping up the cultural offerings, you can enjoy some unique experiences you’ll never forget in Vienna.