Majestic Vienna
The summer holidays had started and that same day we flew from the Emirates to Vienna, the city known for its imperial history, vibrant culture, and exquisite architecture. Here’s how our 2-days/3 nights adventure unfolded.
Travel itinerary
We stayed at Hilton Vienna Waterfront hotel, which was a good base for discovering the city (on foot and by metro). We traveled by metro; the Vienna metro system is very efficient and user-friendly, making it easy to navigate the city. We also covered a lot on foot in Vienna.
1. Stefanplatz
We arrived late in Vienna, so we went straight to the hotel. After a wonderful breakfast the next morning, it was time to explore Vienna and our first (metro) stop was Stefanplatz, home to the magnificent St. Stephen's Cathedral. The soaring Gothic spires captivated us as we explored the nearby streets, shops and cafés. We had lunch at the M ;-)
2. Augustinerkirche
After lunch, we made our way to the Augustinerkirche, a hidden gem located nearby. The church's beautiful Baroque interiors and serene atmosphere provided a lovely contrast to the bustling palace. We took a moment to enjoy the peaceful ambiance before moving on.
3. Hofburg Palace
In the afternoon, we visited Hofburg Palace, the former imperial palace of the Habsburg dynasty. As we walked through the majestic gates, we admired the grandeur of its architecture. The opulent rooms filled with history transported us back in time. We wandered through the Imperial Apartments, admiring the lavish furnishings and artwork that adorned every corner. The highlight was the Sissi Museum, where we learned about the enigmatic Empress Elisabeth, affectionately known as Sisi.
After this full day of cultural highlights, we decided to go back to our hotel. From the center, we walked back via the Danube Canal, the city park and the Wirtschaftsuniversität to Hilton Waterfront Hotel on the Danube.
4. In the spirit of Mozart 🎵
Vienna is the city of Mozart (and Beethoven & Strauss), it is vibrant with his musical legacy.
On every street corner, you will see an image of this great composer of beautiful classical symphonies.
It was here where Mozart once walked and composed his creative masterpieces.
The city boasts numerous museums, art galleries, and theaters, making it a vibrant hub for the arts.
5. Hundertwasser(haus)
On our second day, we set out to explore the vibrant Hundertwasserhaus, an apartment complex designed by the artist Friedensreich Hundertwasser.
Its whimsical design and colorful façade were unlike anything we had seen before.
We spent time snapping photos and appreciating the uniqueness of the architecture. It felt like stepping into a living painting!
We had Curry Wurst for lunch.
Not traditional in Vienna (original German), but very populair as street food in Vienna.
6. Schönbrunn Palace
Our next visit was reserved for the breathtaking Schönbrunn Palace, the summer residence of Empress Sissi, surrounded by beautifully maintained gardens. As we strolled past the extensive castle, we imagined what life must have been like for the royal family, enjoying summer picnics and leisurely walks in such an idyllic setting.
7. Naschmarkt
Finally we went to Naschmarkt, a bustling outdoor market known for its diverse array of fresh produce, gourmet foods, and international delicacies. Spanning about 1.5 kilometers, it features numerous stalls and restaurants offering everything from fruits and vegetables to spices, cheese, and baked goods. The market has a lively atmosphere and is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, making it a cultural hub where culinary delights and social interactions blend seamlessly.
Open year-round, the Naschmarkt also hosts various events and is a great place to experience Vienna’s food scene.
Until next time, Vienna!
Unfortunately, our time in Vienna was over, and the next morning we took the train to Germany (Nurnberg).
Vienna, with its enchanting blend of history and modernity, had truly captured our hearts. We left the city with a sense of fulfillment, knowing that this was just the beginning of our adventures in Europe. Until next time, Vienna!
Photo album Vienna
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