"Grand Old Europe" Vienna by Andrew_W_K
Vienna Travel Guide: 7,173 reviews and 17,491 photos
Vienna is a grand old city for sure. Once one of the most powerful cities in the world at the hieght of the Austro-Hungarian empire there are reminders of those halcyon days everywhere. The Hofburg with it's Spanish riding school, the palaces of Belvedere and Schonnbrun, the Rathaus, the Opera, the list is seemingly endless. There is much to see and do in Vienna and it doesn't disappoint. The city can also be very quiet in the evenings and its possible to walk many empty streets.
If there's one slight criticism to all this it can be a bit kitsch at times with the horse and carriages and people dressed up as Mozart trying to sell you a concert ticket but to be honest if that's the worst thing you can say about a place then it can't be too bad can it?
The cathedral in Vienna is Stephansdom (or St. Stephen's Cathedral) and considering the granduer that is so prevalent elsewhere in the city it seems a bit austere by comparison. Severely damaged in 1945 the cathedral is a shining example to the dilligence of the Austrians in it's restoration. Dating back to the 12th century it seems hard to imagine that the building standing here today is thanks to the restoration after so much was lost. My favorite sight was the roof though. So steep that the rain alone washes it clean.
There are plenty of examples of the Secession art movement all over Vienna (and in Budapest too for that matter) but my favourite are the twin station entrances at Karlsplatz. Designed by architect Otto Wagner they are more reminiscent of Paris than Vienna.
Reviews (8)
Karlsplatz Pavilions
Things to Do
(3)
If you are remotely interested in art and architecture then you should check out the twin U-Bahn station entrances at... more travel advice
The Karlskirche
Things to Do
(3)
A wonderful baroque church that is situated on Karlsplatz. The church was built in the first part of the 18th century by... more travel advice
Cafe Mozart
Restaurants
(1)
Just off Albertina Platz is the Cafe Mozart. A very grand cafe where the waiters wear full dinner jackets and bow ties.... more travel advice
Vienna by night
Things to Do
(3)
Vienna is a great place to explore at night. Some of the streets and squares are deserted and the only sound is your own... more travel advice
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Andrew_W_K
“Enjoy this trip and it is a trip. Countdown is progressing. Uno, Dos, Uno, Dos, Trez, Quatro”
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Comments (10)
Great opening photo!
I agree with you, Andy! ><><>< Thanks for your page!<><><><> It's time to revisit Vienna!
yes, vienna is incredible by night, especially autum. i'll be going there soon and i can't wait to hang out on the streets and squares:))
nice picture of the hofburg. vienna is indeed a remarkable city. looks like you made it to a few places we didn't - so much to see, so little time.
Vienna is fantastic. The Karlskirche is so beautiful. Enjoyed the tour!
Very informative and nice tips you have. photos are great ;-)
A beautiful Hofburg picture Andrew. That choc ckae an latte's are rather expensive.
Would you say its worth it to get the card that covers museum visits or just the transportation card. I am also going to Vienna next year.
i won't drink beer on the bus LOL
Excellent Vienna tips Andrew and I loved your nighttime photos of this beautiful city.