The capital of Austria is considered one of the most popular European cities. The wealth and variety of historical monuments, many interesting architectural objects and modern sights, supplemented by the names of celebrities and their biographies, have always been an attractive goal for tourists.
Almost 2 million people live in Vienna . One day is not enough to see all the sights. Those who would like to take a risk can recommend one of the red or yellow tourist buses that ply in the center and successfully go around all the main sights in 2-3 hours. In this case, you can say with a clear conscience: “I saw the most interesting thing!”. But the most important thing will pass you by – namely, the indescribable atmosphere of the city. Maybe that’s why tourists prefer to take a ride on a cab , which is inseparable from the historical spirit of the city center.
For those thrifty people who diligently monitor their expenses, we recommend a tram tour – you can also see quite a lot of the most important things. The most efficient way to travel between far-flung areas of the city is the metro. The minus of this method of movement is familiar to everyone – you cannot see the city’s beauties in the subway…. The above-ground metro network works a little better in this sense. We will introduce you to several options for walking around the beautiful and famous city of Europe.
You can start your walk in the center, where many historical monuments are concentrated, which characterize the era of the highest prosperity of one of the most influential European monarchies.
We immediately warn pedantic historians – many medieval and older objects were carefully restored after the devastating wars with the Turks.
The dominant center is the Cathedral of St. Stefan – all tourist routes either start or end. A beautiful Gothic building with a colorful mosaic on the roof and two towers of different heights amazes the imagination. In the lower level there is an elevator that takes visitors to the largest Austrian bell. From a bird’s-eye view (approximately 60 m) on the second tower, a picturesque panorama of the city and its surroundings opens up. The entrance to this tower is cheaper, but it does not have a comfortable elevator – those who suffer to admire the city expect 300 steps up and the same number down.
If you go in any direction from the Cathedral along a noisy or a quieter street, you will be captivated by history. The eyes will be caught time and time again by magnificent houses and palaces, coffee shops or souvenir shops. The variety of architectural styles quickly confuses inexperienced tourists.
If you decide to walk along the Körtnerstrasse pedestrian zone , you will reach the Opera House and the hotel with a name that is inseparable from Vienna itself – Sacher . If you are not attracted by a piece of the famous cake, then you can go under the typical wing of one of the most famous galleries in Vienna – the Albertina . The complex of buildings of the former noble palace and Augustian monastery is located on the site of the former Roman military camp of Vindobon. Albertina is famous for its annual exclusive thematic exhibitions, made up of public and private collections from all over the world. Among the many Viennese galleries, the Albertina occupies a special place.
On the way from Albertina, on the right, we will see a large complex of the former imperial court, the Hofburg , part of which today serves the president. Of all the sights of the Hofburg, we will mention only a few. For example, the Spanish Riding School , the Empress Sisi Museum , the Treasury, the Silver Room, the Imperial Apartments, the National Library, the Museum of Lipizzaner horses, the Museum of Relics of Turkish Ephesus, etc. Concerts are held in the imperial chapel.
Through the majestic gate leading through the courtyard, you can go to the wide Geldenplatz square , where on the left side you will see the semicircular facade of the Hofburg (one of the parts of this wing has been converted into a fashionable hotel), and on the right you will reach the city park Narodniy . Right in front of the second palace gate, after passing through one of the sections of the city’s Ringstrasse transport district , we will come to Maria Theresa Square , where the almost symmetrical buildings of the Museum of Art, History and Natural History stand opposite each other , between which an impressive monument to the glorious Habsburg empress rises in the park.
Excursion tourist bus with the narration of a guide (in most cases through headphones in several languages to choose from) is a good solution for individual tourists who travel around world capitals with the aim of seeing as much as possible in the shortest possible time. In Vienna, you can choose one of several routes. One, for example, departs from St. Stephen’s Cathedral , the other from the Sacher Hotel .
In addition to the route along the monuments of the historical center, the inner transport district of the Ringstrasse is a traditional tourist route . It was built on the site of ancient fortifications. The district decorates the historical center on the right bank of the Danube. Here you will see all the main monuments: the Parliament in the style of an ancient temple, the Town Hall , the Opera House , the Theater , the Church of St. Karl Voromei, the University, the famous MAK Design Museum, the City Park with the famous gilded statue of Johann Strauss, which became one of the symbols of Vienna and many another
During the trip, guests of the capital can learn many interesting facts about the history of the city. For example, the prosperity of the city in the early Middle Ages was due to a rich ransom for the English king Richard the Lionheart , who was returning from the Crusades. In addition to the famous names of musical classics (Mozart, Haydn, Strauss, Beethoven, etc.), the tour guide will also mention the local native, fatal singer Johann Holzl , known under the pseudonym Falko. A lot of interesting information will also be heard about literature and art, with which many famous personalities who worked in Vienna at one time are connected .
Longer routes are laid out to Schönbrunn Castle and other distant landmarks.
Schönbrunn is considered the most beautiful European imperial residence. Once it was even called Viennese Versailles . The castle itself can be visited by following one of the proposed routes. A walk through the castle park, where no one will remain indifferent on the observation terrace of Glorietta, will leave an unforgettable impression . In the park you will find the oldest zoo in the world ), the Museum of carriages and sleighs , greenhouses, a garden labyrinth. Concerts are often held in the square behind the castle.
Many visitors to Vienna from our region enter the city through the South Station , which was recently practically demolished in order to quickly build a new Main Station in its place . Therefore, today we offer you some tips on how to start a tour of the city right from the station. Our first mention will be about tickets: Austrian Railways offers extended validity of a railway ticket in city transport for a small surcharge. If you are going to stay in Vienna longer, then it is advantageous to buy the Vienna Card , which includes free use of public transport for 3 days, in addition, it includes discounts on entrance tickets to most Viennese attractions, museums and galleries (and as well as discounts in some restaurants and parking lots).
Just a few steps from the Main Station is Belvedere Castle with the year-old Upper Belvedere Castle and a large French park with fountains, statues and a botanical garden. In the castle, which once belonged to the Savoy prince , today there is a gallery of applied arts with a collection of domestic authors (Gustav Klimt, Oskar Kokoschka). From the other end of the park, reach the ring road and the city center by hand.
The most visited modern facility in Vienna is the Boltushka amusement park , which can be reached by subway. After the Praterstern stop, the route continues to the exhibition complex of the Vienna Fair and to the stadium, where, in addition to sports events, musical ones are also often held. The trip involves not only close communication with the residents of the city, but it will also be an interesting way to look at the store signs along the way, which, with their colorfulness, remind of the Turkish, Arab and Balkan residents of the capital. The diverse architecture of the city, which changes its appearance from stop to stop, will not leave you indifferent.
Architecture lovers in Vienna will be pleasantly surprised, and maybe even impressed. The city is an example of many historical styles and eras of urban planning. Especially many objects are built in the style of late baroque or modern architecture of the 20th century. It is Vienna that is often associated by specialists with the birth and rapid development of the ornamental style of Art Nouveau, the progenitors of which were a group of young avant-garde artists and architects who thus expressed their separate position from their predecessors in art. Many people are attracted by the multi-colored and slightly “smeared” work of the artist Friedenschreich Gandertwasser (real name – Friedrich Stowasser). An example of unique modern architecture was the Gasholder complex near Prátr Park. The facility is unique in that former gas storage facilities have been converted into living quarters.
Entrance to the Prater amusement park is free, tickets are sold for each attraction, of which there are more than two hundred, separately. At the entrance to the park stands a statue of the court wizard Basiv Kalafati (1800 Trest – 1878 Vienna) – one of the founders of the Viennese park. One of the most popular attractions is undoubtedly the Ferris wheel , 65 m high. Lazily rising above the city, the wheel clearly does not fit into the general chorus of flashy and flashing super-modern amusement machines. If your head starts to spin from the entertainment, you can always find a quiet, cozy cafe or restaurant on the outskirts of the park, where you can relax from the hustle and bustle of the day. If you choose the route deep into the island, you will enter the kingdom of nature, untouched by human hands.
What else is worth seeing in Vienna ? The modern quarter of UNO-City on the left bank of the river is at the disposal of several international organizations. From here you can admire the opposite shore from the terrace of the restaurant at the top of the Donauturm (height 252 m). The recreation island Donauinsel between the two branches of the Danube is a place for leisurely walks, sports activities and cultural events in the fresh air. Museum quarter or suburban wine region Grinzing with numerous wine cellars. Shopping district in Mariahilfer Strasse , Christmas markets ….
In the city, where there are 27 castles, 150 museums, 35 bridges over the Danube and its branches, where a fifth of the square is given over to the riot of green parks and squares, everyone will find something for themselves that they want to return to. And more than once…
Vienna through the eyes of a contemporary
In the capital of this once great empire, it is a sin not to devote at least one evening to music. For example, from June to the beginning of September, a large-scale music festival is held annually on the square in front of Vienna’s town hall. Concert films are shown every evening on a huge screen installed right in front of the facade of the city administration. Opera, jazz, symphony concerts, ballet, rock and operetta alternate in the repertoire of shows. Admission to screenings in this, perhaps, the most beautiful cinema in the world is free.
Vienna strangely combines aristocratic classics with daring rock and high-tech gloss. Gothic churches here stand across the street from glass skyscrapers. Conservative classicism is perfectly complemented by metal and plastic structures. A hundred modern wind generators stand at the entrance to this city-museum. Ancient marble stairs go in time with escalators. An exquisite building in the art nouveau style opens the door to the newest subway. And the latest models of cars stand in traffic jams together with horses of the imperial color, which pull fiacrs behind them.
Among the many examples of such contrasting combinations, the ” Fat Hut ” by the artist Ervin Wurm stands out , installed right on the territory of the Belvedere . A few tens of meters from the legendary imperial palace, this product of modern art looks extremely defiant. Inside this white cloud-shaped house, a video is broadcast, in which this same house ponders aloud when structures like it will receive the status of works of art.
Visiting the Belvedere is best combined with the botanical garden – one of the most peaceful and quiet corners of the city.
Hundertwasser House – Kravyno is an unexpected flare in the strictly defined Viennese architecture . This building is like a creative mess frozen in stone. Its facade is colorfully decorated, the roof and terraces are planted with 250 trees and bushes, the apartments are not alike, and the floors jump in a hilly rhythm.
While in Vienna , you should not visit more than one museum per day. After all, each of these microcosms of history and art is organized as a separate universe. It is overflowing with information, unique objects and gives stunning discoveries. So, for the second museum in a day, there simply won’t be enough emotions.
Lovers of antiquity and classics should definitely visit the Museum of Art History . But even if there is not enough time for it – the absolute effect of being present in this cradle of beauty is given by Johannes Holzhausen’s documentary film “The Great Museum” .
Albertina gives a very comprehensive picture of European art over the last five hundred years . The Leopold Museum focuses on art from the last hundred years. And dedicated to modern art, MUMOK cynically wipes its feet on all that is shown in the above-mentioned museums.
It is there, for example, that one of the world’s most expensive sculptures by Henry Moore and Alberto Giacometti is disdainfully hung with clothes.
Next to the canvases of Jackson Pollock and Pablo Picasso hangs a storyboard from some porn. Individual exhibitions of MUMOK resemble a disordered dream.
Those who have had enough of art on the streets of Vienna should visit, for example, the amazing Museum of Technology . It provides an opportunity to examine in detail the first steam locomotives, airplanes, bathyscaphes, vintage engines and other fascinating artifacts of antiquity.
The Museum of Natural History , which will seem like a paradise for those who are fond of zoology, botany and everything related to natural history, can give no less emotions .
Or the Clock Museum , or the Imperial Treasury , or the Music Museum , or one of the hundreds of other luxurious museums in this cradle of sophistication.
For many tourists, the “Sacher” cake is an almost obligatory item on a trip to Vienna . The most popular place where you can try it is the cafe of the same name, which is located right behind the opera house. But in order to wait for your piece of cake, you will have to stand in one of two queues that extend from the counter, through the entire hall and, going out into the street, reach the roadway.
You can save time on this by ordering a cake in this cafe in advance through the official website. Or by visiting some other restaurant where “Sacher” is prepared no worse.
Vienna alone is enough to lose consciousness from the excess of aesthetics and sophistication.
Gourmets: restaurants and cafes in Vienna. Authentic dishes and delicacies
In the restaurants of Vienna, guests will be offered to try a lot of national dishes. One of the most popular dishes is Wienerschnitzel – Viennese schnitzel, which is usually prepared from veal. Juicy schnitzel is served in restaurants Backerstrasse and Figlmuller , it is prepared here according to a special recipe. Another popular canteen of national cuisine is called Tafelspitz , which can literally be translated as “the end of the table”. This is the most tender veal in a fragrant broth, which is often served to guests in a small pot.
It is worth noting that portions are quite large in Viennese restaurants. Waiters are already used to the fact that customers often order one portion for two, so you should not be ashamed to order additional cutlery for one selected dish. You can’t leave out the local beer, which will be an excellent addition to any dish. The most popular varieties are 7 Stern and Plutzer Brau . Young wines can also be recommended to guests of Viennese restaurants. In addition to luxurious meat dishes, the restaurant can offer guests a variety of vegetable salads, pates and other light snacks. Ginger red cabbage Ingwerrotkraut, grilled sturgeon Stor vom Bratrost and cheese casserole Kasspatzle are especially popular .
In the historical district of the city there is one of the most famous and popular restaurants – Griechenbeisl . A few centuries ago, it hosted famous people, the signature dish of the establishment is apple strudel, the special recipe of which is kept in strict secrecy. Piaristenkeller is an equally pleasant historical restaurant . In its menu you can find fish dishes, and national dishes of Austrian cuisine, and various possible vegetable salads. For dessert, visitors usually order a Waldheimat-Tommerl strawberry shortcake .
Lovers of sweets are in for a pleasant surprise in Vienna , here you can find attractive pastry shops and coffee shops at every turn. Their selection of sweets is simply huge, in addition to strudel, the “gugelhupf” cupcake , which is prepared with the addition of chocolate and raisins , is considered a classic Viennese dessert . Aromatic bagels with poppy seeds ” monoxpiller “, as well as puff pastry ” krapfen ” made from yeast dough are considered real classics . Many interesting desserts are also prepared from puff pastry here, the most common variant of which is ” kremischnitten “. This is the name of a pastry made of puff pastry with a softer cream.
For those who like heartier desserts, you should try the “Reruken” cake, which is prepared with the addition of chocolate and almonds. Chocolate cake “Sacher” , the recipe of which was invented in Vienna, is today considered a dessert with a world name. Its recipe is extremely complicated, it takes cooks several hours to prepare this cake. You can try the cake today in different countries of the world, but only in the historical homeland is it prepared according to the true recipe. The historic Demel pastry shop , which opened more than a hundred years ago at the imperial court, is perfect for tasting sweets .
Confectionery Altmann & Kühne specializes in the preparation of chocolate sugar cookies, they are made here in more than 50 varieties. Sweets tastings are often organized in this store, and you can also buy excellent sweet souvenirs for loved ones here. For those who want to try real Viennese waffles, in addition to numerous cafes, you can visit the Manner store , which sells classic versions of waffles in traditional pink packaging.
The most popular restaurants and cafes of Vienna are located in the historical district. Here is the famous Central cafe , which has long been a cult institution, its opening took place more than 50 years ago. Here you can try all popular national desserts, as well as coffee prepared in a special way.
Visitors who decide to visit the cafe in the evening will be able to try traditional pies.
The Kuchlmasterei restaurant is popular with those who like to try the most unusual culinary masterpieces. Absolutely all dishes in this restaurant are prepared according to unique author’s recipes, they differ in a very impressive design and way of serving. The menu of this restaurant includes popular dishes of Austrian cuisine, as well as interesting Mediterranean dishes. Among the most unusual restaurants in Vienna, it is worth highlighting Motto am Fluss , located at the shipping station on the Danube Canal. The location of the restaurant is a three-story building built in the shape of a ship. The popular restaurant is located on the second floor, and on the third floor there is a cafe where you can relax in a more relaxed atmosphere.
The main architectural sights of Vienna – what to see
Saint Stephen’s Cathedral
St. Stephen’s Cathedral is a Catholic cathedral that is the national symbol of Austria .
The cathedral is one of the most important religious buildings in the capital of Austria , because of which it has witnessed many important events in the history of this country and has become one of the most recognizable symbols of Vienna .
In 1741, the funeral of the Italian composer Antonio Vivaldi took place in St. Stephen’s Cathedral .
The church was built of limestone and was originally white in color, but over the centuries the facade of the building turned black due to soot and other air pollution. But recent restoration projects have returned some parts of the building to their original white color.
St. Stephen’s Cathedral is depicted on the Austrian ten-cent euro coin.
Saint Peter’s Church
St. Peter’s Church is a Roman Catholic parish church in Vienna , built in the Baroque style.
Everywhere in the temple you can see images and symbols of the Holy Trinity , as the temple is dedicated to her.
The magnificent emerald-colored dome of the church is decorated with beautiful frescoes from the inside.
The sumptuous details of the interior of St. Peter’s Church are complemented by a luxurious organ.
A glass coffin with the remains of St. Benedict is kept in the Church of St. Peter .
Church of Wiener Karlskirche
An outstanding architectural monument is the Wiener Karlskirche church, which today has lost its religious significance and is a museum. The architecture of the church is a unique combination of Italian, Greek and even Japanese construction traditions, it is a truly unique structure. Art fans should visit the exhibition of Salvador Dali , the museum is located in one of the historical buildings, not far from the Joseph Square . It is also worth visiting the Historical Museum , which presents ancient exhibits from the times of the Roman Empire , collections of modern art, as well as medieval sculptures.
Kunst Haus
Another building in Vienna is associated with the name of Hundertwasser – namely, the Kunst Haus, the so-called Hundertwasser Museum . This is just an incredible place – in everything, just like the architect himself. You probably won’t find a more colorful place in Roma Schneider’s hometown (the only thing that can compete with it is the mentioned Hundertwasser house and the “village” named after the architect).
Millennium Tower
The Millennium Tower is a skyscraper that is the tallest in Vienna after the Danube Tower.
The total area of the building is 47,200 square meters. m, of which 38,500 sq. m. m are office premises.
The construction of the tower proceeded at a very fast pace thanks to the latest technologies. Builders built 2.5 floors in one week.
The tower has ten elevators, one of which is freight.
The tower building houses a cinema and a large shopping center.
City Hall in Vienna
The Vienna City Hall is a monumental building, because nothing is in a hurry to fit into the frame either in width or height, so the amateur photographer will have to look for a good perspective. Before Christmas, the town hall turns into a fairy-tale palace, the largest Christmas market in Vienna opens on the square in front of it . In January, a huge skating rink is flooded here, on which you can ride absolutely free on the day of the official opening.
In the summer, you won’t have to be bored on Town Hall Square either: concerts, theatrical performances and the same fairs are held here – only summer ones: beer by the river, sausages by the kilo. Crowded in the evenings and on weekends, but always delicious and inexpensive.
Hofburg
The winter residence of the Austrian Habsburgs has 2,600 halls and rooms. Don’t expect to be able to get around them all, but it’s still worth taking a look inside. The Hofburg is the history of the Austrian state in paintings, interiors, tableware, books and jewelry. Visit the palace treasury: in addition to crowns and sceptres, household items belonging to members of the imperial family are stored here, which give a great insight into their lives in different eras.
Hofburg is surrounded by two parks: Burggarten and Volksgarten . In the summer, it’s nice to walk here, admiring the skillfully trimmed bushes, and in the winter it’s not a sin to drink a mug of mulled wine.
Vienna Opera
From the Hotel Stephansplatz along the street Karntnersrapsse takes you to the famous Vienna State Opera House. The exterior of the building looks grand, but everything is impressive hidden inside. If attending an evening performance is not part of your plans, you can join a day tour of the opera house. It lasts 50 minutes and is conducted by Austrians. In general, if you are okay with English, I will join a foreign group. As practice shows, English guides report more interesting facts.
Museum of Art History
The Art History Museum is the most famous art museum in Vienna , opened in 1891.
The Museum of Art History is almost identical in appearance to the Museum of Natural Science located opposite .
In fact, the museum represents the rich art collection of the Austrian imperial court.
The Museum of Art History presents collections of Egyptian and Middle Eastern art, a collection of Greek and Roman antiquities, a collection of sculpture and decorative arts. The museum also has a library.
The works presented in the museum belong to such famous masters as: Giorgione, Titian, Giovanni Bellini, Lorenzo Lotto, Bernardo Strozzi, and many others.
Prater Park
When they say “Prater”, they mean “party”. This is a huge park, home to the famous Viennese Ferris wheel, which gives a good view of the city, and many popular tourist attractions. In the summer, you can ride a bike and do sports, and in the winter, fairs and skating rinks are at your service.
Belvedere
Belvedere Palace is a historical museum that combines the architectural uniqueness of a complex consisting of 2 separate buildings. There is also one of the large galleries of works by various artists of the Middle Ages, as well as modern exhibition collections of young artists. Numerous sculptures will show you what some of the owners of the castle looked like, who used this beauty in everyday life, and thanks to whom all the masterpieces of the nation’s architectural and cultural heritage have been preserved.
Schönbrunn
Not every palace in Europe can boast such a history and such an aura of secrecy as Schönbrunn. Actually, the son of Napoleon Bonaparte , the Duke of Reichstadt , spent his short life here , earning the nickname “lion”. In the duke’s room, a cage was preserved, where his only friend – a lark, once lived.
You can walk around the palace in an hour, but do not rush to leave its territory: Schönbrunn is surrounded by a beautiful park, which you will definitely want to walk in good weather. The oldest zoo in Europe is located here. It will be interesting to visit not only children, but also adults. The animals here live in spacious enclosures, where conditions are created that are as close as possible to their natural habitat. Do not deny yourself the pleasure of watching clumsy pandas or impetuous cheetahs. Both the residents of the Vienna Zoo and its facilities deserve your attention!
Schönbrunn Castle is Vienna’s Versailles
Vienna , one of the most beautiful capitals of Europe, offers visitors a rich history, beautiful architecture and unusual gastronomic experiences. We will go to visit this imperial city to walk through what is probably the most beautiful castle in all of Austria , which, due to its magical appearance, has been compared to the French Versailles.
Schönbrunn Castle
After we learned how to get to one of the most impressive places in Vienna , we will get to know it in more detail. When you enter the magnificent castle complex, you are greeted by a gate distinguished by masterful blacksmith work, and in the yard, the gravel that has spilled out, at a distance of several tens of meters, the main part of Schönbrunn Castle rises in a typical yellow-golden color, which was a symbol of the empire. This originally hunting castle of the half of the 18th century was expanded and rebuilt until it acquired its real dimensions. Originally, the Baroque architectural style is now represented as the Rococo style. This work of art was used as a summer residence of the Habsburg imperial family and courtiers. Maria Theresia and her family lived in itEmperor Franz Joseph I with his wife Elizabeth of Bavaria , also known in society as Sissi. Its name comes from the combination “beautiful well – spring”, which aptly expresses its infinite beauty…
Visitors can admire the castle not only from the outside, but also from the inside. In the central part there are ticket offices and information about different types of tours around the castle. In most cases, excursions are divided based on districts and the number of premises visited. Despite the relatively high price of entrance tickets, a walk through wide corridors, mysterious rooms, presentable salons equipped with rare furniture, as well as the apartments of the emperor himself and his wife or Maria Theresa , leaves a unique impression. You will definitely like the so-called. ” Great gallery” (Mirror Hall), which belongs to the rare ceremonial halls in the Rococo style in the castle. Balls, official receptions and other court events were held in it. Six-year-old genius Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart even played here. Each visitor along with the excursion automatically receives a mobile electronic guide in different languages, so you can fully enjoy the excursion.
The territory of the castle
The castle is unique not only from the inside, because as soon as you get to its other side, another world literally opens before your eyes. The world of well-kept greenery in the park, large flower lawns and large fountains decorated with sculptures. On one side there is a labyrinth, on the other the oldest still existing zoo in the world, many benches, wells and paths, this is also Schönbrunn!
This kingdom of rest and silence is visited annually by hundreds of thousands of people, but thanks to the huge territory, everyone can enjoy a walk or rest here. Therefore, it is not surprising that in 1996 it was included in the UNESCO World Cultural Heritage List. At its opposite end is Glorietta . This is a “monument” of Austria’s victory in the Battle of Kolin . Today, there is a cafe here, which regularly hosts chamber music concerts.
In the back part of the castle territory there are greenhouses, of which the most interesting from the point of view of architecture is the so-called. Palmenhaus , or Palm House. In it, visitors can see plant samples from the forests of all continents. This is the last and largest exhibition of its kind in Europe. A little further on is the newly opened Desert House (Wüstenhaus), where you can see a unique collection of cacti.
Schönbrunn Castle is not only 1,440 rooms, 200 kitchens, a museum of hundreds of Wagenburg carriages , gold ornaments, beautiful colorful gardens, sculptures by masters, but also much more. It is also a meeting place for local residents, foreign visitors, or a home for rare plants and animals. Autumn or spring, Schönbrunn is probably the perfect place for a walk, but neither in winter nor in summer it is not idle and offers impressions that will stay with you for a very long time, so we strongly recommend you to visit it.
Vienna – a magical tour of the museum
The capital of Austria offers many tourist attractions. One of them is definitely a visit to the natural history museum, which is located in the former residence of the Habsburgs – the Hofburg Castle .
Explaining how to go to Vienna is probably useless, so let’s immediately go to one of the largest museums in Austria , which in its own way is also one of the largest natural history museums in the world. Just move to Maria Theresa Square .
Before entering the museum and starting to get acquainted with its secrets, it should be emphasized that the castle complex also includes the Art and History Museum (Kunsthistorisches Museum), which is located directly opposite, as well as the Austrian National Library (Prunksaal), the seat of the Austrian president, the imperial treasury (Schatzkammer), the National Theater (Burgtheater) and, last but not least, several residences and, for example, also stables or a riding school.
The wonderful building of the museum and its architectural twin – the Art and History Museum – date back to 1872-1891. Both buildings were built by order of Emperor Franz Joseph I. Their dominant element is a significant dome, 60 meters high, which, together with the facade, is richly decorated in the Neo-Renaissance style. A sculpture of the Greek god Helios rises on top of the dome of the natural history museum . In front of the museum is a well-kept park, decorated with one of the most beautiful sculptures in Austria – a sculpture of Empress Maria Theresa .
Having entered the museum, which was first opened in 1889, we bought tickets, and nothing prevented us from entering the world of the past. The core collection dates back to 1750, when a large collection of natural products – consisting of 30,000 items – was acquired. In the future, its expansion continued. One of the most expressive took place during the Second World War, when exhibitions were replenished with confiscated property of people of Jewish origin. Since the beginning of the 90s, these items have been gradually returned to their owners.
The Natural History Museum is divided into several departments, and it also hosts many temporary exhibitions. When visiting, be sure to visit the mineralogical and petrographic department. Here is the largest and oldest collection of meteorites in the world, which consists of more than 1,100 exhibits from the universe. You will also be interested in the collection of 150,000 unique rocks and minerals or works of art created from precious stones. The peculiarity of this part of the museum is that only about 15% of the objects are exhibited.
In the geological and paleontological department, you will be captivated by the hall of dinosaurs and their models. The botanical department will introduce you to the kingdom of plants, of which there are literally millions. Almost the same amount can also be found in three types of zoological departments. In the area of archeology, anthropology, science and ecology, you will find such unique items as, for example, the Venus of Willendof , which dates back to about 29,500 BC, or the largest collection of skulls in the world (about 43,000 pieces). There is also a digital planetarium. In general, the museum offers more than 20 million collection items.
These wonderful exhibits are a “living” demonstration of the history of our Earth. When you walk through individual rooms, in addition to the beauty of the shop windows, pay attention to the beautifully decorated ceilings and walls, where rare paintings often hang. You can spend many hours in the museum, so we recommend that you divide your visit over several days of the year and always focus on one of its parts. If you like to travel back in time, there is no better stop than the Natural History Museum in Vienna .
Where to stay in Vienna – a review of the most fashionable luxury hotels
Hotel Park Hyatt Vienna
The opening of the Park Hyatt Vienna hotel took place in 2014, in a few months it gained the status of one of the most prestigious and exclusive hotels in Austria. The fashionable hotel occupies a restored building with an age-old history that used to house a bank. For accommodation in one of the hotel’s luxury rooms, you need to pay at least 700 dollars per day, and for 1,500 dollars per day, guests are offered accommodation in the luxurious Park suite. In addition to elite rooms, the hotel is ready to offer clients a high-class health center and Arany spa salon , which offers a wide range of relaxing and cosmetic procedures.
Hotel Grand Hotel Wien
Grand Hotel Wien also has exclusive rooms for wealthy travelers. The most luxurious among them is the super suite with an area of 130 square meters. meters, spending the night in this room will cost hotel guests around UAH 3,000. The room is decorated in an aristocratic style, it is decorated with furniture made of valuable woods and fabrics of cream shades. The panoramic windows of the rooms offer a wonderful view of the busy Ringstrasse boulevard . The room has a fully equipped kitchen, as well as a spacious bathroom with a hydromassage bath. Gourmets will surely be impressed by the gastronomic establishments presented in the hotel salon, they will be able to relax in the charming Grand cafe or enjoy oriental delicacies in the sushi bar.
Hotel Sans Souci Wien
Hotel Sans Souci Wien is invariably associated by travelers with incomparable modern style and luxury. Its interior, made in snow-white tones, is simply impeccable, and in addition to the classic spa salon, an exclusive spa salon for women is available to the fair sex. Those who do not skimp on comfort will be offered to rent a wonderful suite with an area of 70 square meters for $1,000 per day. meters, which offers a panoramic view of the museum quarter. The room is decorated with original works by the artist Roy Lichtenstein , as well as unique antique furniture.
Hotel InterContinental Wien
The quality of service and luxurious atmosphere of the InterContinental Wien hotel is hard to find equals. Suitable rooms in one of the most prestigious hotels in Vienna can be found both for economical tourists and for travelers with wealth. On the top floors of the high-rise building, there are executive suites, the guests of which receive the right of free access to the exclusive InterContinental club . Throughout the day, the club serves exquisite dishes and signature cocktails, and in the afternoon there is always a “happy hour”. The real pride of the hotel is the MediterraNeo restaurant , which presents classic Viennese cuisine.
Hotel DO & CO Hotel Vienna
Opposite St. Stephen’s Cathedral is one of the most popular and original hotels in Vienna – DO & CO Hotel Vienna. It is located in a unique building known as Haas House , and offers tourists a large selection of original luxury rooms. On the top floor of the building is the most luxurious suite with a dome-shaped cover, a night in which will cost guests about 2,000 USD. This room has a beautiful patio and an original onyx bar with a spacious terrace.
The Bristol Hotel is a luxury collection
The fashionable Hotel Bristol – Luxury Collection is not left out of the attention of Vienna’s affluent guests. It has been welcoming guests since 1892, and the most prestigious rooms are those located on the upper floors of the hotel. For $1,500 per day, hotel clients can stay in the Opera suite , decorated with antique furniture, and about $800 for a night in one of the classic deluxe rooms.
Living in style in Vienna – a review of unique designer hotels in Vienna
Hotel Radisson BLU Style
One of the most spectacular and high-class designer hotels in Vienna is Radisson BLU Style, it is located near the Hofburg Palace. The design of the hotel is dedicated to modern culture and art, it is decorated with original black and white photographs and unusual designer glass accessories. In the rooms and public areas, elegant soft furniture in pastel colors is installed, and the interior is complemented by very unusual floor lamps. One of the most unique design elements is the parquet floor in the lounge. It has built-in multi-colored lamps and a glass panel, which when illuminated imitates rose petals scattered on the floor.
Hotel 25hours Hotel Beim MuseumsQuartier
In 2013, after another reconstruction, the hotel welcomes guests 25hours Hotel Beim MuseumsQuartier, its colorful interior is simply unique. The hotel is decorated in a circus theme and decorated with authentic antique furniture, the rooms are decorated in different styles. Their mandatory attribute is a bright wall painting, and in some rooms the wall is decorated with a masterful mosaic. The interior is complemented by bright rugs and designer furniture in rich shades, soft toys and poufs. In the public areas of the hotel, you can also see a lot of original decorations, including old circus posters, pasted on the walls.
Best Western Premier Hotel
Energetic and passionate natures will definitely like the Best Western Premier design hotel. This modern hotel has its own theme – it is dedicated to dancing. You can see beautiful themed paintings everywhere, and in the lounge, performances by world-famous dance groups are always broadcast on a large plasma screen. The interior of the rooms is made with a predominance of white color, and it is complemented by accessories with blue or dark cherry colors: designer rugs, curtains on the windows, table lamps and exquisite pastel linen.
Hotel Altstadt Vienna
Hotel Altstadt Vienna is characterized by a very progressive and calm interior design. The hotel occupies a beautiful historical building on the territory of Shpitalberg , all rooms are decorated in an individual style. Their interior is full of bright colors, and some rooms are distinguished by their non-standard layout. They are equipped with an unusual open bathroom, decorated in the style of past years. Hotel guests will have the opportunity to choose a luxurious room with a colonial-style bed or an elegant room decorated in black. The hotel houses an interesting collection of works of art collected by the owner of the historic building.
The 1060 Hotel Vienna
Hotel 1060 Vienna also impresses its guests with the strictest modern design, it is located in the immediate vicinity of the lively shopping streets in Vienna . The hotel rooms are decorated in strict black and white colors and are distinguished by elegant finishes made of natural wood. Each of them has its own special feature: unusual designer lamps, exquisite paintings on the walls or huge panoramic windows. In the public areas of the hotel, spectacular designer furniture in the Art Nouveau style is installed, and in the courtyard there is a very beautiful garden with areas for relaxation.
Hotel Der Wilhelmshof
Talented modern artists worked on the design of the family hotel Der Wilhelmshof, the main feature of its interior is a lot of unique works of art and original decorations. Walls and ceilings painted in bright colors, a very interesting system of artistic lighting, huge bright paintings in an abstract style – all these design luxuries are hidden behind the strict facade of the historic building. The inner courtyard of the hotel is also very nicely decorated, it has designer upholstered furniture.
The preserved history of Vienna – a review of old hotels with a rich past
Hotel Palais Hansen Kempinski Vienna
Among the historical hotels of Vienna, Palais Hansen Kempinski Vienna deserves primary attention. Built in 1873 specifically for the opening of the World Exhibition , the hotel is located on the busy Ringstrasse boulevard. After the last large-scale reconstruction, the hotel began to receive guests in 2013, it is distinguished by a very elegant interior with refined notes in the style of past years. One of the main innovations of the historic hotel is the stylish bar Henri Lou , which hosts interesting themed events every hour and famous DJs perform.
Hotel Hotel Stefanie
the oldest hotel in Vienna is Hotel Stefanie, it welcomed its first guests more than 400 years ago. The hotel occupies a beautiful building with miniature square windows, and its interior is full of priceless antique decorations. For several hundred years, the hotel has kept a collection of antique furniture, as well as works of art presented within its borders. The hotel has a famous Kronprinz Rudolph restaurant of Austrian cuisine , which is considered one of the best in its field for good reason. In the summer, several tables of the restaurant are served in the picturesque courtyard of the historic building.
Hotel Best Western Premier Schlosshotel Römischer Kaiser
For more than a hundred years, the Best Western Premier Schlosshotel Römischer Kaiser has remained faithful to historical traditions. It is located in a luxurious mansion of the second half of the 17th century, and has been owned by the same family for more than a hundred years. The cozy rooms recreate the unique atmosphere of past years, they have preserved their original decoration and are furnished with restored antique furniture. Decorated in cream tones, one of their distinctive features is high ceilings and tall, narrow windows.
Hotel Citadella Residence Vienna
The prestigious Citadella Residence Vienna hotel is located in a very beautiful historical building, which continues to attract supporters of the traditions of the past and art lovers. Pristine walls with rough brickwork, open terraces lined with marble tiles, antique wooden furniture decorated with artistic carvings – these are just a few unique elements of the hotel. It preserves an extensive collection of works of art, including not only paintings by prominent masters, but also ancient sculptures, vases, and interesting woodwork. On the roof of the historic building, guests can enjoy a beautiful terrace with a view of the nearby Prater Park .
Shopping in Vienna. For clothes and souvenirs – the best shops, outlets and boutiques
One of the most prestigious shopping areas in Vienna is the Ringstrasse galleries , where clothes and perfumes of the world’s leading brands are presented. In the shopping arcades, you can find branded items from the most popular brands, including Armani and Gucci , and many go here in search of unique Austrian suits that are sewn by hand. Despite the fact that literally all the shops presented here belong to the highest price category, the shopping arcade is very popular with tourists. Here you can find interesting souvenirs or go to a sale in one of the popular boutiques.
The most expensive shopping street in Austria , Karnetnerstrasse , is located in Vienna . Despite this status, even economical tourists will be able to spend time here with benefit and pleasure. The popular Shtefl department store is located here , which will appeal to lovers of stylish designer items and refined perfumery. Many visit it specifically to buy luxurious Austrian knitwear.
Also on this street is the famous Swarovski store , where exquisite jewelry and accessories can be purchased at the most attractive prices.
Lovers of sweets should visit the confectionery store “Mozart” , which sells dozens of types of candies, chocolates and other sweets. This shop is very tourist oriented and sells very interesting chocolate gift sets.
Those who care about modern youth style should go to Mariehilferstrasse . Here are several dozen shops with youth clothing, trade pavilions that meet, including for representatives of various subcultures. All shops have very attractive prices, a large selection of Austrian-made sewing products is presented here, and ladies will be interested in visiting underwear shops. Classic clothing stores are also present on this street, and cheap national restaurants are another attractive feature.
Among the most colorful and attractive markets in Vienna , it is worth noting the Naschmarkt , where local farmers offer the best products. Lovers of homemade cheese and culinary products will find it interesting to walk along the shopping streets, some meat delicacies can no longer be bought at any market in Vienna . In this market, you can try inexpensive street food, and many tourists go there in search of souvenirs. It is especially interesting to look at the Naschmarkt market on Saturday, on this day part of it is occupied by the flea market.
Among the shopping centers of Vienna, Ringstrassen Gallerien deserves special attention , it has more than 60 stores of various brands, including designer boutiques popular in Austria. Here you can buy not only clothes and shoes, in the center there are several chic pavilions with watches and jewelry. The shopping complex will definitely appeal to fans of the Burberry and Armani brands .
DonauZentrum is one of the largest shopping complexes in Vienna , it houses more than 170 stores of popular global companies. There is a large H & M store here , as well as a Tommy Nilfiger designer clothing pavilion . Considering the fact that literally all shops differ in affordable prices, this shopping complex is equally popular with both tourists and local residents.
SCS – Shopping Center Sud is a real mecca for shopping lovers , it is one of the largest shopping centers in Europe. More than 330 stores are opened within its walls, it is difficult to present a category of goods that cannot be purchased in this shopping center. Clothing and shoe stores of the most famous European brands are represented here, as well as many souvenir shops that offer unique products. Women will be delighted by the huge selection of cosmetics and perfumery stores, including pavilions selling exclusive organic cosmetics. You can comfortably spend the whole day in this shopping center, it has beautiful recreation areas, dozens of restaurants and cafes of various specialties.
