Vienna
Vienna is a city of imperial splendour, of art nouveau, of waltzes and coffee houses, magnificent buildings, classical music and fine art. It is filled with fine architecture and elegant buildings from the 700 years of the Hapsburg Empire. Medieval streets and squares contrast with grand boulevards and beautiful gardens.
A true city of culture, Vienna is the music capital of the world. A guided walk follows a route that is star-studded in the true sense of the word for many stars have been inset into the pavement to mark the achievements of such luminaries of the music world as Mozart, Beethoven and many other composers, musicians and singers who have in the past been closely associated with the city.
The Museums Quartier, with its baroque facade, is home to a major cultural district containing 3 opera houses, 50 theatres and 100 museums. After absorbing the culture that permeates the air in Vienna, why not stroll through the flea markets and the boutiques of the main shopping streets before pausing for a well-deserved break in one of Vienna's renowned, elegant coffee shops.
A grand classical 'Ring' of 19th century palaces surrounds the medieval city, with its narrow streets, hospitable inns, cafés and shops. Why not take a walk or ride around the Ringstrasse boulevard to see these classical old buildings including the opera, parliament, fine arts museum, town hall and Burgtheater. At every corner you will discover another palace, church, statue or beautiful town house.
Imperial Vienna is home to The Belvedere, St Stephen's Cathedral - a truly Gothic splendour, the UNESCO World Heritage Site Schönbrunn Palace - a masterpiece of classic Baroque design. The "Riesenrad" - a giant Ferris wheel which shapes the skyline - was built in 1896 by English engineer Walter Basset. Besides being a landmark and an antique, it offers fabulous views across the city. And where better to see proof that the city of Vienna is fifty percent green spaces. Themed gardens (the Shakespeare Garden and Japanese garden) are interspersed with the formerly Imperial parks, now under municipal or state control.
