Vienna, Austria

Compiled by FatPassport's travel experts

Fantastic city of palaces and culture
Vienna, Austria

Many Travelers? Some
Likes: Very atmospheric city
Dislikes: Can be a little pricey

Being the seat of power for various empires has given Vienna a royal sort of air. The city is clean, gorgeous, and has a cultured but relaxed feel. Travelers come here to gaze at palaces, art, and architecture; and to soak in the great travelers vibe of Old Vienna. It's a wonderful place!

The main attractions include the huge and impressive onetime summer palace of Schonbrunn; dozens of museums including the large and well-stocked Kunsthistoriches (art) Museum; the Spanish Riding School and its famed stallions; and the Vienna Boys Choir. If you're into opera, then you know that Vienna is one of the world's best places to see it.

If that's not enough, there are of course several interesting churches, including Stephansdom, which is the iconic heart of Old Vienna. Adjoining Stephansdom is the liely pedestrian mall of Karntner Strasse, chock full of outdoor cafes and street performers. There are even a few small casinos in town, if you'd like to try your hand at blackjack, roulette, or slots.

For a delicious break, there are coffee houses everywhere and you might want to try the famed sachertorte (a chocolate cake), invented here and made with a still-secret recipe. For something more simple try Zanoni & Zanoni Gelateria, which has some of the best gelato in Europe. For the shopper there are plenty of higher end stores, or at the other extreme, visit one of the many flea markets. For something different make a visit to Prater Island, home to the enormous Riesenrad Ferris wheel.

Vienna is not cheap, and attractions, lodging, and food can all cost a bit more than you might expect. However, most find that the town is well worth the price, and Vienna is a great stop for at least three days. If you have a slightly bigger budget and wish to stay longer there will be no shortage of things to keep you busy for a week or longer.

Winter tends to be a bit overcast and chilly, while summer is crowded and a bit hot. Late spring and fall are the best times to go for reasonable weather and for avoiding the heaviest tourist crowds. July and August get good enough weather, but the crowds roll-in and some key attractions (the Spanish Riding School, Vienna Boys Choir and the Opera) are shut during this period. December is a magical time here, with the city beautifully adorned for the Christmas holidays.

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