Why Vienna? Well, that’s a question I had in mind before I visited the place and if you ask me now, I’d ask you back, “Come on! Why not Vienna?!”. The capital city of Austria certainly cast a spell that’s hard to forget. With its rich palaces, cobblestone lanes and classy Kaffeehausers (coffee houses), Vienna is imbued in history. Now that doesn’t mean it is old school. It serves to be a cutting edge of contemporary art, design, architecture and a rising scene of dining and drinking culture. What I love the most is the way it stays rooted to its past but also accommodates the neo-modern things that come pouring in. So this time when I was in Vienna with my family, we did explore a handful of things and here are the ones that stay on the top of my delight filled memory tank.
WOW! The Imperial architecture:
How I wish I could have studied architecture in Vienna? That’s how I felt at just the glimpse of this city’s imperial architecture. I was astounded when I walked by the cobblestone paths, partly because I am a big fan of old architecture and mostly because of the colourful vibes they hold. Most of the buildings are painted yellow with green windows. It is fascinating to realise that many of these were rebuilt after WWII and reflects the Viennese renaissance.
Music and Museums:
Almost every house in Vienna knows how to waltz and yes, the mesmerising museums are a part of their culture. There are a lot of operas, theatrical performances and concerts happening around the year here to check out with music a vital ingredient of their culture. And Museums, my god the museums! They are just everywhere and it is amazing to see the way they have preserved their heritage over the years. Beautiful art in beautiful buildings! I spent an entire day in the art history museum.
In this line, the most visited place is the Schonbrunn Palace – a former royal summer residence that boasts of1,441-rooms inside. Though not a museum literally, this Baroque palace is one of the most significant monuments in the history of the country. They reflect the changing times, curiosities, and aspirations of the Habsburg monarchs in Vienna.
Cafes with character:
The dining was definitely the best slice of the Vienna cake we indulged in. The cafes were amazing and constructed with character. The Central cafe is the most admired one for breakfast and naturally crowded given its reputation. another exciting place was Figlmuller, a place that we had to go back 3 times to get a seat. It had the best local menu and the select Viennese wines. And, of course, the authentic rendition of the schnitzel. (Made from veal, this characteristic Viennese item is thin, breaded and pan fried). Not only does it hold a personal taste, it is also one of the national dishes of Austria. The next best thing that happened was the mouth-watering Krapfens. These are basically fried stuffed donuts, filled with marmalade, chocolate or vanilla, sprinkled with powdered sugar and lots of fun. And the Sachertorte is easily the best chocolate cake I’ve had in the world.
There is so much more to ponder and explore. From the small name boards that are unique and purpose-driven, to the grand metro stations that serve as the wheels of Vienna, everything about this city sparkles with energy and life. To put it shortly, Vienna is a city whose past is alive in the present, and extend itself into the future.
Get. Set. VIENNA!
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