As the capital of Austria, it should come as no surprise that Vienna is packed with attractions and monuments that are of huge historical and cultural significance. If you’re heading there soon and want a few tips on the best places to go to experience true Vienna, here are our suggestions for the gems you can’t afford to miss out on…
Michaelerplatz
The oldest to behold in Vienna, this attraction takes you right back to Roman times where their first settlement would have been built. The excavated ruins are on display for the public to view, and you can even walk around the ancient wall and trace the steps of Vienna’s past.
Mozarthaus Vienna
If you live for classical music then you couldn’t be in a better city, because Vienna is home to the former residence of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart himself. Although he lived in just one of the apartments from 1784 to 1787, the entire building has now been renovated and redesigned as a museum, dedicated to educating visitors on his work and personal life.
Haus der Musik
Although a stroll down to the Museumsquartier will show you contemporary art and baroque museums, Haus der Musik is the first museum of sound and music in the whole of Austria. This was a huge project, worked on by everyone from University staff and students to architects, technicians and music academics. These days, there’s a range of hi-tech exhibitions and interactive areas, telling the story of the earliest human instruments through to present day.
Vienna State Opera
With opera being such a big part of every local resident’s life, the Viennese population have gone to great lengths to make opera appealing to all. Why not go and see some world-class performances, classical concerts or famous arias performed in truly opulent surroundings, by picking up some Vienna opera tickets?
Stephen’s Cathedral
This is such an iconic point of reference for the Viennese population that it would be wrong to not drop by and take in this magnificent building. From its multi-coloured tiled roof to the daunting 446ft height, it’s a classic example of medieval architecture that dates back to 1160. Make sure you explore the spooky crypts and catacombs while you have the chance.
Sigmund Freud Museum
If you fancy yourself as an amateur psychologist, you’d better head over to the Sigmund Freud Museum. You’ll find this place tucked away on a sophisticated street in the Alsergrund district, housing a comprehensive collection of artefacts that tell his life story.
Naschtmarkt
Finally, if you want a true snapshot in time of what every-day Viennese life is like, you must visit the Naschtmarkt at the Wienzeile. Not only is it Vienna’s biggest food market where you can buy the freshest ingredients or try out some traditional recipes, but there are over a hundred market stalls selling everything from vintage jewellery to artwork and much more.
When are you next heading to Vienna?