 Vienna
has long been renowned as one of the most beautiful cities in
Europe, with
good reason. The architecture is magnificent, there are abundant gardens,
and it’s a pedestrian’s paradise. Getting out on foot with a good map is the
best way to view its charms.
The Habsburg family ruled Austria for over 6 centuries, and Vienna was
their base. The Hofburg Palace was begun in the 13th century, then expanded
and altered for centuries, incorporating numerous architectural styles.
Nowadays it houses the Austrian President. Sunday mass provides an
opportunity to hear the Vienna Boys’ Choir. Various parts of the palace are
open to visitors, and it’s worth allowing plenty of time to go exploring.
Like all good European royalty, the Habsburgs also had their summer
palace – the Schloss Schönbrunn. An overwhelming experience of gilding and
stucco, it’s worth the U-bahn journey to visit, just for the pure
magnificence of it all. The gardens are very beautiful, and well suited to a
peaceful stroll.
Back in the centre of Vienna, St Stephen’s Cathedral (Stephansdom) has
long been regarded as a landmark, with its magnificent tiled roof and
spindly spires. It’s possible to climb up the south tower and enjoy the
view. The nearby Haas Haus, completed in 1990, is more recent, and a source
of controversy. Some say the beautiful old cathedral is crowded and degraded
by its silver curves and glass. Others say it makes some very interesting
reflections.
Close by is Kärntner Strasse, a pedestrian only mall which provides hours
of fascination for the visitor, with cafes, shops and street entertainers. A
stroll here is a great way to get a real feel for the human heart of Vienna.
If you follow Kärntner Strasse south, you reach the Staatsoper (State
Opera House), built in the 1860s. This opulent building was badly damaged in
the 2nd world war, and was only reopened in 1955. The interior is best
enjoyed attending a performance, but you can also go on a guided tour during
the day. Nearby is the Burggarten, a lovely garden containing many statues
of Mozart. There’s also the Butterfly House, if you want to see something a
little different.
Although the list of places to visit in Vienna is very long, you
certainly don’t want to miss Maria Theresa Platz. Flanked on two sides by
the identical museums of Fine Art and of Natural History, it’s an excellent
place to sit and contemplate the beauty of Vienna. Both museums are also
worth losing yourself in for a while.
As a final touch to the day, the Prater Amusement Park is full of
traditional delights. The huge ferris wheel in the centre of the park
provides a great view of the city at night, and may provide a sense of déjà
vu for those who enjoy James Bond movies.
Many people pass through Vienna in a hurry on their whistlestop tour of
Europe, and miss out on this city’s many beauties and
attractions. Do
yourself a favour and make sure you allow plenty of time to sample its
delights.
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