Things to do in Vienna
Vienna's former importance as the heart of the 19th century's Austro-Hungarian empire means that the city is awash with cultural and historical things to do. Gothic, Roman and classical buildings are spread throughout the city, with the most famous and popular of these being St Stephen's Cathedral. Built in the 12th century, the beautiful gothic building houses a tall, lean medieval tower and many art treasures such as the 18th century tomb of Prince Eugene of Savoy and a gothic winged altar.
Theatre and music is integral to Vienna's past, with Mozart leaving his birthplace of Salzburg to spend the majority of his life in the capital. Those following in his footsteps, albeit for a short break, are spoilt for choice; opera lovers should head to the Staatsoper and Volksoper, famous in particular for its Viennese operettas. Theatre goers are advised to visit the Burgtheater which, together with its branch, the Akademietheater, is considered to be one of the best theatres in the German-speaking world, the Volkstheater Wien and the Theater in der Josefstadt.
Vienna is famous for its coffee culture and tourists will find numerous coffeehouses in which to sit and relax while enjoying traditional Viennese food and drink. Although the city itself houses many spectacular buildings to explore, beautiful green parks are located throughout the city offering tourists the chance to unwind. The Weinerwald's, or Viennese Forest, foothills reach to the outskirts of the city. Visitors unsure of which parks to visit could head for the city's most popular ones – including Belvedere Park which has a baroque-style castle. The city's principal park is the Prater, which is situated on an island created by the river Danube and the canal. A trip to the Schonbrunn, the breathtaking imperial palace, allows tourists the chance to explore an 18th century park and the world's oldest zoo.
A glimpse into Vienna's past is afforded from the city's museums, including the Sisi Museum which contains the imperial apartments and the silver cabinet. Art galleries provide an array of works from centuries ago to the present day.
One of the best and cheapest ways to explore Vienna is simply to wander around its streets. The Innere Stadt, or inner city, contains imposing buildings including the town house, parliament and the university. Romanesque, Baroque and Classical buildings help to make Vienna one of the most attractive cities in Europe to visit; the Haas House is a classic example of how the city incorporates different designs, with its modern-day glass structure rising dramatically next to St Stephen's Cathedral.
Tired and weary feet can rest on a ride on the Prater's giant ferris wheel, which provides a unique view of the city.
For those hoping to pick up a bargain there are plenty of flea markets to explore, while Vienna's shopping streets offer the chance to take home a memorable gift from the city.
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Things to do
