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DestinationsDestinationsOther |
Vienna, AustriaINTRODUCTION Vienna is the capital and largest city in Austria, as well as its cultural, economic, and political home. Part of western Europe, Vienna is located in the far eastern portion of the country and is in very close proximity to Slovakia (its capital, Bratislava, is a mere 30 minutes by train) the Czech Republic, Hungary and other Eastern European nations. The city is home to world-class museums, the famous Vienna Boys' Choir, a variety of famous orchestras and ornate concert halls. Vienna is an amazing city filled with Baroque palaces and numerous architectural adornments that will leave your mind wandering and wishing for times past. HISTORY The city was founded around 500 B.C. by the Celts. During the Roman Empire it was a frontier city guarding against Germanic tribes. In the 1400s the city became the residence of the Hapsburg Dynasty and eventually became the secret capital of the Holy Roman Empire. In 1805 the city became the capital of the Austrian Empire and in 1918 the capital of the First Austrian Republic. The Germans were eventually driven out of the city in 1945 by the Soviets. After the war the city became important in East vs. West espionage activity. KNOW BEFORE YOU GO Climate: Vienna experiences all four seasons – warm summers and cold winters, with a mild autumn and spring. Currency: Euro Time zone: Central European Time (CET) Power: 223V, 50Hz Language: German There is almost always something happening in Vienna, making it a year-round destination. An especially beautiful time to visit Vienna is Christmastime, when the city attracts locals as well as worldwide travelers with its well-known Christmas fair. ATTRACTIONS Augustinerkirche (Church of the Augustinians) Kunsthistorisches Museum (Museum of Fine Arts) Botanischer Garten (Botanical Garden of the University of Vienna)
RESTAURANTS Anna Sacher - A fancy restaurant in Jugenstil design, decorated with a collection of paintings from that era. You can choose between a number of exquisite Austrian specialties, such as a glazed saddle of rabbit with tarragon or essence of oxtail with goose liver bread. Palais Coburg - This is a hotel and restaurant located in a newly-restored 19th century palace. Palais Coburg is one of Vienna’s finest restaurants, offering international cuisine suited to the season. It includes a wine bar with a view of the richly-stocked cellar. Wienerwald Restaurant - A restaurant chain that serves typical Austrian food, such as Wiener Schnitzel with potato salad. Gasthaus Am Nordpol – This bohemian tavern is located off the typical tourist path. It serves up traditional Viennese favorites like homemade sauerkraut and roast pork. Fadinger – Fadinger is an intimate restaurant with soft lighting, classic white tablecloths, and fresh flowers on tables. It is famous for its spicy meat with rice and cucumber salad. Vestibül - Seasonally fresh dishes ranging from traditional schnitzel to fried monkfish with saffron puree are offered at this classy establishment, housed in the former Burgtheater drive-in for the Austrian emperor’s coaches. The interior is magnificent, with tall marble columns, towering ceilings and chandeliers. LODGINGS Wombats Hostel – The Wombat is a model of how a hostel should be run, with a friendly atmosphere, spotless rooms, free laundry and a bar. The free "welcome drink" is also a nice touch. Hotel Wandl - This quiet, family-run hotel, opposite St Peter's church, is reasonably priced for such a central location. Some rooms overlook the 18th-century dome, modeled on St Peter's Basilica in Rome. Hotel Sacher Cafe - Originally founded in 1876, the Hotel Sacher Cafe is still run and owned by the founding Sacher family and has come to be known as one of the more fashionable places to stay while in Vienna. The family are also the originators of the more widely known Sachertorte chocolate cake (something unique to Austria), which can be enjoyed with a cup of great coffee in the attached cafe. Hotel Orient - Who'd have thought it - Vienna, with its hushed galleries and traditional coffee shops, has a naughty side. Then again, it's most famous painting is Klimt's The Kiss. If the 20-room Hotel Orient's Kaiser suite sounds a bit too full on for your liking, try the more romantic sounding 1001 Nights. Austria Trend Astoria Hotel – This charming hotel has an unbeatable location in the centre of Vienna. Its breakfast spreads are legendary. Apartments Kreiner – Housed in a traditional Viennese style building, these cozy apartments have been fully renovated and are a good option for travelers who prefer the flexibility to self-catering. PERSONAL STORIES 
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