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If you ask us, there is hardly a reason to venture far from the Inner Ring in Vienna – especially if you are only planning to spend a few days. Despite the fact that it is one of the largest European cities, Vienna can be “done right” in a much smaller vicinity. Explore the Inner ring by foot – forget about the U-bon and only take a cab if you are too tired after dinner or are wearing those fabulous heels that just won’t permit the hike. It will become obvious that you can guide yourself through the city using specific landmarks, be it a palace, platz, or a cute coffee place, and of course your Carnet map.
Quick profile on the Viennese: they love their desserts, their meat, and their imperial traditions. Vienna is the birthplace of several of our favorite pastries – the croissant (yes, as the legend has it, it does not belong to the French), Apfelstrudel (apple strudel), and the Sachertorte (much more on that later). The chocolate in Vienna is divine! You just have to try it to understand. Read more in “Where to Eat.”
Veal, beef, and sausage are prepared a million and one ways by the Austrians. Breaded, boiled, baked, or fried (to name a few) these people can make it. Just be sure to know what you are getting yourself into before you order. Preparation is key.
Vienna is as modern and industrialized as just about anywhere is Europe, but they have done a careful job of integrating these conveniences into their imperial history. You will experience a harmonious tune to the city that is set by the buzz about the opera, classical music concerts and symphony that ring through the streets. See what events and vienna concerts are playing before your trip .
If you are not careful, the magnificent palaces and gardens will become too commonplace. Vienna was once an imperial city that made sure to spare nothing in the name of ornamentation and bravura. Some are now museums, some are still palaces, but all of those in the Inner Ring are worth exploring as well as the Belvedere a little further outside the Ring.
In terms of fitting clothes, Austrian women got it right a long time ago, and some still sport the traditional Viennese outfits today. Small waisted, full skirted, smock-like dresses in a plethora of fabrics do a fantastic job showing off – and hiding - what you’ve got. These dresses may look a little out of place in other cities in the world, but in terms of the style they may be right on target. These getups are not cheap and only the affluent Viennese women have the occasion and the cash to uphold the traditions. For men, the classic looks of the loden coats and suits are sure to make any man presentable. An ingeniously designed outwear made of a lightweight woven felt-wool-cashmere cloth offers the perfect protection from wind, rain and biting cold. Lodens are an investment, but with attention comfort, function, and style, they should be well worth the money.
One of the most proclaimed movies of the 1950s was based on a story of an American writer in Vienna who gets involved in a twisted mystery and a love affair with a Czech beauty. Watch The Third Man to get in the right mind-set for your travel to Vienna.
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