I have an interesting relationship with Vienna. It takes only a few hours to get there, and I have been there many times over the years. I adore its architecture and historical heritage. But, there is one big but
Did you know that Vienna gets the title of the most comfortable city to live in the world almost every year now? Let`s think why
One day Billy Joel wrote a song called “Vienna”, where he sang about the rush of the people, the constant chasing of goals and other topics that anyone can relate to. The song is amazing by the way, so make sure to check it out if you haven`t heard it before. He also sang, that when you slow down, Vienna would wait for you. And for me, that is what I can associate Vienna with. I have been there many times, and it is great to take a walk in this very clean and very beautiful city. But I never felt like I am in love with Vienna. It is a place I would go on a day trip, but won`t spend my vacation at. This is a place I would visit when I want to slow down, but not push myself to something.
It may sound strange, but sometimes I think this can be because the city is too good. Yes, sounds ridiculous, but hear me out. It is great, that wherever you go, everything looks clean and representative. However, sometimes it feels fake. Don`t know, it is like Disneyland, you love the way it looks, but you know that the pink walls are fake. Like a rich relative, who invites you once in a while for an amazing experience, but with which you have really strange relationships. Sorry Vienna lovers, that is just the way I feel. However, I need to admit how many good things are in this city and that I really like it. If this wasn`t true, I wouldn`t be going there that many times.
I love travelling in winter, and I couldn`t miss the opportunity to see Vienna during the Christmas season. All those decorations and Christmas markets truly looked amazing. On the way from the main railway station to the center, in the middle of the big Christmas market there were even real animals, which is a nice touch I haven`t met in a while. However the main attraction, undoubtedly, is the Christmas market at the Rathaus. In addition to beautiful shops, there is a big skating rink and a Christmas tree. And crowds. Really, so many people, even late in the evening. But the experience is worth it, and if I would have to recommend visiting Vienna, the Christmas season would be a preferable time.
Always nice to see real animals (except for humans)
When I come to Vienna, I always try to take the most from my visit, and since there is so much history in it, I try to connect with it as much as possible. Every building, every street, every church oftentimes have some sculpture, or writing, or memorial, or whatever else that helds history in itself, and paying attention to those details is something I enjoy doing.
Vienna is also a city of classical music, and there are a lot of things you may find in connection to it. I would highly recommend Beethoven`s museum, really a great place to visit for both, young and old. If you are more of a Mozart fan, you can also visit his house, but, you better go to Salzburg to experience the true birthplace of a genius. There are plenty of others, but it really comes to personal preferences and musicians you enjoy listening to. And the elephant in the room I just can`t help to mention is Vienna State Opera. One of the most well-known operas in the world, amazingly beautiful and very expensive. But even on a budget, you may visit it if you are prepared to spend some time waiting. The thing is, certain standing tickets on the balcony are not sold generally, but only on the day of the performance at a special ticket office. The queue is usually long, but a few hours of waiting may provide you with a Vienna Opera experience for as little as a few euros.
And since we are talking about musicians, in Vienna you feel that Mozart’s face is staring at you from every window. And not metaphorically, but quite literally. Mozartkugeln, sweets named after the genius are being sold everywhere, every gift shop will have a giant Mozart print, some windows just display Mozart as an advertisement for something. Don`t know about you, but every time I get an overdose of Mozart. Mozartkugeln is great sweet nevertheless, highly recommend them. You can find articles about who makes the original, who have a license to make round ones, and so on, but, rather just enjoy the sweets. Just make sure you buy them at a regular shop, not a souvenir one. They are really sold everywhere.
Vienna is a great city that has tons of things one may love it for. For many it truly is the best city in the world. It is very gorgeous, but I was never able to feel the true life in it
Make sure to pay attention to the sculptures
Always nice to see real animals (except for humans)
Finding interesting things everywhere
