Everything Else Except Nothing

The once glimmering capital of a vast empire, Vienna, should be on every traveller’s itinerary. Under the Viennese blue sky, this city boasts an abundance of beauty, making it a worthwhile destination for a visit.

Mozart once wrote to his father of his “irrational affection” for Vienna, and I know exactly why. I find it embarrassing not to have visited this splendour sooner. There is no better birthday gift than a ticket to a memorable journey. In my opinion, at least. Every June of my life is marked by a trip to a wonderful destination. It was time for Vienna this year. A weeklong trip to this unique city led me to visit the following attractions:

1. The Schönbrunn Palace

The 18th-century Rococo-style building was once the summer residence of the Habsburgs. It stands graciously among its magnificent gardens and the spectacular Neptune Fountain and The Gloriette on the hill in the back side, from where you can simply scoop out Vienna in your palm and admire the amazing view.

2. St.Stephen’s Cathedral

It is without doubt that all roads in the city will lead you to Stephansplatz. In this vibrant and lively square, you will be dazzled by the beauty of St. Stephen’s Cathedral. With its majestic towers, this Gothic structure is the city’s icon. You cannot miss the multi-coloured roof made out of glazed tiles and the distinctive double-headed eagle, a symbol of the Habsburg Dynasty.

In the morning, I recommend you sit in one of the nearby cafes, indulge in a Viennese breakfast, and admire the historic Stephansdom.

3. The Karlskirche

The majestic grandeur of Baroque architecture has never failed to leave me breathless. 

St. Charles Church is considered one of Vienna’s greatest Baroque buildings, dedicated to Saint Charles Borromeo, a key counter-reformer in the sixteenth century.

Karlskirche is a place of great beauty and splendour that reflects itself in the front fountain with its dome flanked by two columns. One of the best places to observe its beauty is from the benches around the church.

4. The Hofburg

The Hofburg is a collection of buildings dating from various periods and styles, as well as open spaces in the spirit of imperial times. 

It is the site of The Hofburg Palace, which was one of the principal imperial palaces of the Habsburg dynasty. This isn’t a particular building, rather it’s a series of interconnected opulent buildings that once made up the Habsburg monarch’s former townhouse in which he resided.

Among its highlights is the Sisi Museum, which embodies the spirit of the most enigmatic of all Habsburg Empresses.

The saga of this free-spirited woman sparked my fascination with the Empress and her life, and the legend of her enchanted me. In modern Vienna, her name and face are everywhere. A Bavarian princess who became an Austrian empress at the age of 16 before being assassinated by a German anarchist in Geneva, Sisi became an icon of beauty and glamor.

Even for just a short while, this museum is a wonderful place to get a glimpse into the life of this legendary heroine.

5. Belvedere and ‘The Kiss’

The Belvedere is a historic building complex that sits in a lavish Baroque park. There are two palaces that make up this baroque architectural gem. Upper Belvedere and Lower Belvedere.

The Orangery and The Palace Stables are also part of the complex which was built as a summer residence for Prince Eugene of Savoy.  

The Upper Belvedere Palace, a Museum today, hosts art exhibitions and it is here where you can see the world-leading collection of Klimt paintings.

The impressive interior architecture keeps you awestruck as you walk through the rooms adorned with fine paintings until you reach the last and most famous stop: ‘The Kiss’ by Klimt. Its view is as satisfying as the passion between the lovers. 

Visiting Lower Belvedere is another great way to experience top temporary exhibitions and to discover a fascinating place for art lovers.

In between the two palaces is the astonishing Belvedere Garden, an incredibly beautiful spot to sit and admire the scenery of the flowers, the fountains, the sculptures, as well as the stunning architecture of the baroque era.

6. Maria Theresien Platz

The city of Vienna is home to numerous impressive monuments. In the midst of the beautiful square that was named after Maria Theresa, you will find an impressive monument in honour of the only female ruler of the Habsburg Dynasty. The Maria Theresa square is located between two identical museums and is one of the most popular tourist spots in Vienna. 

If you want to spend a quality afternoon outside of this historical city, a visit to the Art and Natural History Museums is worth the time.

7. Prater

Vienna’s Sundays are known for being quite lazy. Shops are closed, people are home, streets are empty. When you’ve had enough of lounging in the deep shade of the very relaxing numerous parks, you might want to try a whirlwind roller coaster ride at the Prater. 

Among the attractions at this park are the city’s iconic Giant Ferris Wheel and the Madame Tussauds museum.

8. The Schönbrunn Zoo

It would be a shame not to spend your day at the Vienna Zoo if you are an animal lover like me. The Schönbrunn Zoo was built in the park of Schönbrunn Palace by the Habsburgs and is the oldest zoo in the world. 

You will certainly get lots of fun and entertainment from snoozing koalas, giant giraffes, cheeky monkeys, and kissing birds as you explore this maze of fun.

After all that walking around this beautiful animal land, take a break at the Emperor’s Pavilion Restaurant. Enjoy a traditional Viennese meal and a cup of coffee in an imperial atmosphere. Your legs will thank you for this, as well as your heart!

9. The Hundertwasser House

If you think all about Vienna is imperial and Baroque screams from every street, The Hundertwasserhaus will prove you wrong. 

A true masterpiece of design, created based on the idea, concept and design of Austrian artist Friedensreich Hundertwasser, this structure leaves one in awe of its unique aesthetics and striking design.

10. The State Opera and The Musikverein

As you stroll around Vienna’s centre, stop to admire the beautiful Renaissance-style arches adorning the facades of the Vienna State Opera.

Don’t miss this opportunity to see world-class artists performing with The Wiener Staatsoper orchestra.

As one of Vienna’s most traditional and aesthetically pleasing concert halls, the Vienna Musikverein is one of the most popular concert venues in the city. A special feature of the Musikverein is its golden hall, which is renowned for its grand acoustics.

On the morning of New Year’s Day, the Vienna Philharmonic performs the Vienna New Year’s Concert here. 

It is a moment of high excitement every new year’s day, as I eagerly await the Radetzky March to begin. It is only then that I mark the beginning of a new year! With a toast to Strauss I !

11. The Monuments

It is impossible not to be overwhelmed by the monuments in Vienna. As if they are popping out of every corner, they are literally everywhere. A picture of these gorgeous memorials will surely make your photo album. 

Here is a list of the monuments I visited during my stay:

1. Mozart Monument

Situated in Burggarten, standing tall in front of a giant floral clef, the Mozart Monument is never to be missed when visiting Vienna.

Take a seat on a chair surrounding the memorial and pay tribute to the genius composer.

As you go through your day, you might keep hearing ‘Eine Kleine Nachtmusik’ playing in your head. I kept humming it cheerfully over and over again.

2. Johann Strauss Monument

It is located in the Stadtpark and is dedicated to one of the world’s most popular waltz composers.

‘An der schönen, blauen Donau’ is a masterpiece of music that I deeply admire. 

3. Schubert Monument

As a city with a vibrant classical music heritage, Vienna is not one to shy away from showcasing its arts and culture. 

The Vienna-native composer Franz Schubert has his own memorial sharing the Stadtpark with Strauss.

4. Beethoven Monument

As grand as this statue is, it represents this musical genius in all the brilliance that he possessed.

Maybe it was the summer sun that hit my head, but I almost heard Beethoven himself play ‘Für Elise’ for no one else but me.

5.  Goethe Monument

Goethe Monument is a monument in honour of the German poet and writer Johann Wolfgang von Goethe.

An image of myself tucked under a blanket carefully reading ‘The Sorrows of Young Werther’ came back to me while standing in front of this impressive bronze statue of the great Goethe.

6. The Schiller Monument

Just on the opposite side of the Goethe Monument, in front of the Academy of Fine Arts, stands the Schiller Monument. 

Around Schiller’s bronze statue is a small, peaceful, and beautiful park, making it the perfect place to relax and soak up the moment. You will find this little quiet gem the perfect setting for writing your own ‘Ode to Joy’.

7. The Plague Column

The Plague Column was built following the Great Plague epidemic of 1679, which killed thousands of people.

The Baroque memorial was erected to commemorate this tragic event, and is now one of the most famous sights in the city’s Graben Street.

 

 

12. Stadtpark

Certainly, Vienna is one of the greenest cities in the world! A great deal of green space can be found in the city, and there are a number of extraordinary parks and gardens. 

In the heart of Vienna, you’ll find Stadtpark. The most picturesque green spot to escape the summer heat. The park is home to a number of statues and monuments, including the golden plated bronze statue of Johann Strauss II. 

It is divided into two parts by the Wien River, which flows through the park.

Visiting Stadtpark would not be complete without a coffee at Kursalon’s Terrace. This is a Renaissance-style music hall where Strauss II performed with his orchestra in the late 19th century.

Conclusion

Traveling but not sure where to go? Then, this amazing city is the right place to visit. Vienna won’t disappoint you! It is truly breath-taking, absolutely impressive and strikingly beautiful! My word is your bond!

P.S.

Try the traditional Wiener Schnitzel while you’re there. I did not (by the way, I’m vegetarian) so I cannot tell you whether or not it’s a must. But, they say its one of a kind.

Nevertheless, you will never go wrong with the Wiener Melange along with the famous Sacher Torte.

Thanks for reading!