The beautiful city of Vienna, or as the Austrians call it, Wien, straddles the famous Danube River. The city itself is composed of 23 areas, or Bezirke as they are called in Vienna. Each is named and has a number, similar to Paris, so you should be able to find your way around quite easily. These 23 areas can be categorized into four parts. District one is the center where youll find the famous Ringstrasse. District two is separated from district one by the Donaukanal, a small river. Districts three to nine are situated between the Ringstrasse and the Grtel boulevards. 10 to 20 lie around district one and 21 and 22, known locally as the Transdanubien, are across the Danube. The final district, number 23 is located at the south side of the city center. As confusing as it may seem, youll be able to find your way around. Its important to note that Vienna is quite spread out. It would be difficult to explore everything on foot. You dont have to rent a car either though. Theres an impressive tram network that is one of the largest in the world as well as many bus routes that can take you around the city.
Whats worth exploring in Vienna? Lots. Its a wonderful city filled with amazing sites and fantastic restaurants eager to offer the local delicacies. Viennas famous Ringstrass, a beautiful boulevard that circles the city center, was established in 1857. To date, the only structure that reflects its medieval roots is the Burgkapelle, a chapel where the Viennas Boys Choir still performs. This famous street also houses the Vienna Opera House. This fantastic building commands your attention and inside youll be treated to world-class opera performances. Another prominent building is the Museum of Fine Arts. Built in the late 1800s, it stands today as an impressive establishment that houses a fantastic collection of art. Some of the works featured here come from Rembrandt, Drer, Raphael, and Titian.
There are many beautiful churches located throughout the city. The oldest church in Vienna is the St. Ruprecht's Church. Established between 796 and 829, youll also find the oldest bells in Vienna, which can be found at the very top of the tower, that date back to 1280. Interestingly enough the yoke that holds them together doesnt have a single screw. The citys two oldest glass windowpanes date back to 1370. The Cathedral of St. Stephen, known as Stephansdom, is a beautiful building comprising of four stunning towers. Youll also find a world-famous bell here. Its the largest in Austria and second largest in all of Europe. Close to St. Stephen is the Modern Haas House. This fascinating buildings design is a complete opposite to the historical buildings that surround it. Its interesting though to look at the glass faade and see the reflection of St. Stephen, a perfect reflection of past and present. If you make your way to the top, you can enjoy a great meal while looking down at the church.
Vienna is well known for classical music and the composers that have lived in this fascinating city. There are many museums and historical sites that showcase the achievements of composers such as Ludwig van Beethoven. But Vienna is also well known for its Spanish Riding School. Founded in 1572, its the oldest and last Riding School in the world where classic dressage is still practiced. The public has been able to watch these fascinating performances since 1920. If youre interested, get your tickets early since shows tend to be booked up months in advance.
The Schnbrunn Palace is a beautiful building with a large courtyard at its front and a maze that fills the backyard. Take a tour of the residence of Maria Theresia where youll see beautifully decorated rooms, filled with ornate touches that tell a story of a different era. And when youve finished touring the beautiful palace you can enjoy a fantastic dessert, or meal, at the caf thats off to the side of the palace. Not in the mood for a big meal? They serve a great cup of coffee as well.
Eating in Vienna is a wonderful experience. Whether you choose the local Wiener Schnitzel with a side dish of Erdapfel Salat or one of the many other delicious dishes youll love eating here. Vienna also has a fantastic array of delicious desserts with one of its most famous creations being the Apfelstrudel. Mozart Kugeln are also legendary in Vienna. These dark chocolate covered balls of enjoyment are filled with an almond paste and are wrapped in foil with the face of Mozart as its design. Dont think that youll only be able to enjoy one though. Best bet is to buy a bag full. Hey, if you dont finish them, which you will, you can always take them back home. Vienna also offers a unique way to enjoy a cup of coffee. Unlike most coffeehouses, theres no need to rush out or get your coffee to go. The cafs here are perfect for relaxing and truly enjoying that fresh cup of java. And if you dont think you can handle the caffeine, ask for Kaffee Hag, decaffeinated coffee.
Spend your days exploring the fascinating sites or stroll through the many beautiful parks. Spend your nights enjoying a concert at many of the great theatres that provide fantastic entertainment. There are also many pubs, discos, and nightclubs if youre in the mood to groove. Vienna is a great place to learn about history, enjoy world-class music and taste some of the best meals Europe has to offer. Just dont forget your map youll want to make sure you see everything Vienna has to offer.
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