While destinations further east continue to draw the masses looking for cheap thrills behind the former Iron Curtain, Vienna will remain one of the most refined cities in Europe.

The selection of exclusive luxury hotels in Vienna is excellent. The presence of the UN, IAEA and OSCE in the city means that it is used to catering for high ranking international delegations. Visitors can choose between the refined and elegant Old Masters or the chic and stylish modern additions. Either way, visitors are guaranteed an indulgent stay with masterful service.

The cuisine in Vienna is different to that in other Austrian towns, primarily because of the large migrant population in the city. Excellent restaurants are dotted around the city in almost every culinary style imaginable. The famous Weiner Schnitzel is part of traditional Austrian cooking or visitors could try something a little more exotic.

Vienna is particularly well known for its cultural attractions. These include world class theatre and opera, exquisite museums based on the former Royal collections and magical architecture. Depending on your tastes you could spend days or weeks here, lost in the world of fantasy that produced Mozart, Klimt and so many other artistic greats.

But Vienna is not just about culture, it is about exploring the finer things in life in many different ways. A number of quality private spas are located in and around the city, many building on Austrian tradition but giving them satisfyingly modern twists. Many are also built to run on renewable energy sources so a day of pampering need not come at a cost to the environment.

Just forty-five minutes from Vienna is the Neusidler-See, an inland lake that is a haven for sailing and boating of all kinds. The lake is also situated in the middle of Burgenland, the wine centre of Austria. A string of top restaurants around the lake shore mean that visitors can call in to taste the freshest fish pulled from the lake and sample the local wines.

Vienna International Airport hosts direct flights from all over the world, especially North America and the Middle East. Easyjet flies from the UK but most other budget carriers prefer to use other airports in the region, which makes them inconvenient for getting to Vienna.

For one hundred and fifty years as the capital of an empire Vienna honed the skills of providing luxury, pleasure and indulgence to those that mattered. Nowadays these skills are available to discerning guests as well as Royalty. While the travel herds head west to the coast of Spain or east to the emerging tourist markets, Vienna knows that it will always be able to attract those with suitable taste and sophistication.

Top 5 Luxury Hotels in Vienna

• Ambassador Hotel – Double room from €216
• Hotel Bristol – Double room from €275
• The Ring, Vienna’s Casual Luxury Hotel – Double room from €259
• Grand Hotel Wien – Double room from €209
• Hotel The Levante Parliament - Double room from €160

Photo courtesy of  The Ring, Vienna’s Casual Luxury Hotel

Many people affected by the economic crisis will be willing to bid what will probably in a few decades become known as the year of the recession goodbye, with a hope for a brighter tomorrow. While a great many of the world’s cities have fantastic New Year’s parties, we’re focusing on specifically the best ones in Europe. Enjoy!

1. London

There are multiple ways to have a great New Year’s in London this year, with something to suit all ages. The London Parade is held on New Year’s day, full-on with circus performers and marching bands and much more, and on the Eve there will be an epic fireworks display over the Thames to properly usher in the new year. However, it’s likely the viewing areas by the waterfront will fill up fast (often by as early as 9pm), so it’s probably worth getting there early. Also worth mentioning is the famous Ministry of Sound Nightclub and Record Label hosting a massive party at the O2 Arena (Formerly known as the Millennium Dome). The tickets aren’t too expensive either but book as soon as possible as they will sell out!

Top London Hotel for a New Year Break : Hotel Club Quarters Grace Church

2. Paris

Paris’s shortage of accommodation can grow particularly acute during the New Year, so book well in advance. Some of the most notable celebrations include the Fireworks Display most visible from the Champs- Elysees. A quieter place to visit on the Eve is the Sacre Coeur Cathedral Plaza in Montmartre (close to where Amélie lived in the 2001 hit Le Fabuleux Destin d’Amélie Poulain ,film buffs!). A highly expensive but also extremely romantic way to while away the final hours of 2009 is a dinner cruise on the Seine which sets off from the Eiffel Tower at 8pm, with a menu featuring Champagne Cocktail and Duck foie gras, among other delicacies. Not to niggle about the ticket price, but let’s just say that you shouldn’t expect much change from €500 a table!

Top Paris Hotel for a New Year Break:  Hôtel Résidence Lord Byron

3. Amsterdam

Amsterdam’s really jazzing it up this year with countless parties and events. The Dutch are famous for their love of partying and DJ’s, so there’s no exception this year at the amount of clubs and bars holding celebrations. Firework displays are promised all over the city, particularly in areas such as Nieuwmarkt and Dam Square. The quietest places to view them are said to be the bridges overlooking the Amstel River. Also, look out for strangers hurling firecrackers around to shock the more gullible bystanders!

Top Amsterdam Hotel for a New Year Break: Rho Hotel

4. Rome

The former capital of what was arguably the greatest Empire ever seen has got entertaining events happening this year, with many of the New Year’s activities taking place in the traditional squares. The Piazza del Popolo will feature attractions such as a firework display and musical concerts. Rome is a particularly attractive destination for families, as on New Year’s Day the attractions shift more to suit children. It goes without saying that Rome’s also a great city for those on “gastro holidays” as there are a great deal of restaurants serving New Year feasts.

Top Rome Hotel for a New Year Break: BB Corso 22

5. Vienna

Long established as one of the worlds’s most cultured cities, Vienna has no shortage of things to do, particularly around the New Year. On December 30th there is a tour, dinner, and concert at the Schloss Schönbrunn, which can only be described as totally majestic. The Palace has a fascinating history, from the reign of the early Habsburg Monarchs (the last of which died in 1922), to Franz Josef’s I occupation and death in Schönbrunn. The evening concludes with the dinner and the concert featuring classical works from the likes of Mozart and Strauss. Additionally, from midday onwards, there are a massive series of street parties, with tents and marquees lining the street and passageways of the old city, hosting parties with DJ’s and other live music where hedonists can dance from New Year’s Eve through to the dawn of New Year’s Day. Exciting, eh?

Top Vienna Hotel for a New Year Break: Hotel Kaiserpark Schönbrunn

Every year inter-railers, backpackers and travellers of all kinds pass through this wonderful city and spend their days seeing the sights, visiting the museums and taking in the culture. However, when the sun goes down the party starts, so here is a brief guide of the good bars and clubs.

1. Flex

Flex is the granddaddy of Vienna clubs as evidenced by its longevity and prominent listing in the Lonely Planet guidebooks. It is also one of the most mainstream clubs in the city and so while it guarantees a good night out surrounded by beautiful people, anyone looking for a more underground experience may want to look elsewhere. The location is pretty central, near Schottenring U-Bahn station and right beside the Donau canal. Easy to find, hard to leave, it’s easy to see why this club has lasted so long.

2. Passage

Located in a subterranean passageway, the owners clearly went for the literal option when naming Passage. This bar cum club therefore allows visitors to party directly under one of the main roads of Vienna, the Ringstrasse. This place has a more underground feel (excuse the pun) than Flex, music ranges from funk and soul to advanced but obscure techno music that reminds people Germany is only next door.

3. Fledermaus

‘Fledermaus’ means bat in German and this may seem like a strange name for a club, but when you remember that the ancient cellars of the city where the club is located would have been infested with the animals until not so long ago it begins to make sense. This is one of the more unconventional clubs, they have regular events and imaginative themed evenings most nights where locals and visitors alike party into the small hours in a variety of outlandish ways.

4. American Bar

For those hankering for a less extensive party there are of course more sedate options than the above. I particularly enjoyed the American Bar due to a penchant for design chic and classic cocktails which make for a classy combination. Rumours persist about tourists being thrown out by irate staff after trying to take pictures without buying any drinks but this is unconfirmed. If you don’t want to take any chances then order a cocktail or two before attempting any photography.

5. Heaven Vienna

Finally, Heaven Vienna caters to ‘gays and friends of gays’ and puts on parties like only gay Europeans can. Based on the London super-club of the same name, this is the place for no holes barred night long fun (again, excuse the pun) with decadence and outrage assured. Anyone with social hang ups or an aversion to the exotic will want to stay as far away from this place as possible.

Top 5 Apartments in Vienna

• ViennApart – €81 per night
• Appartement zur Zahnradbahn- €59 per night
• Apartment Vienna Comfort – €77 per night
• Apartment Ferchergasse – €70 per night
• City Apartment Stuwerstraße- €80 per night

Photo of Flex night club, Vienna, Austria, by Andreika

Not only is the travel infrastructure slightly more expensive than elsewhere, especially anywhere to the East, but most activities come with a high price as well. This is a short guide of some things to do that are either free or very cheap.

• A visit to Hofburg

The Hofburg is the magnificent former Imperial Palace in the centre of Vienna. There are various museums contained within but these will be of little interest to the budget traveller since they are quite expensive for mediocre experiences, even the National Library charges admission. However, on the inside many of the buildings have been refurbished so that there is little left of their Imperial splendour meaning visitors get more of a feel for the buildings as a palace by remaining outside. The architecture is impressive and the Volksgarten is a gorgeous place to sit back and relax.

• A visit to Zentralfriedhof

Some of the most famous composers in history lived in and around Vienna, which means many of them are still about, buried in the city’s graveyards. The Zentralfriedhof contains the graves of such luminaries as Beethoven, Schubert and both the older and younger Strauss. There are also many more Austrian celebrities whose lives are an enigma to us visitors but learning about their exploits is mostly interesting. Finally, there are two Jewish parts of the cemetery. The older part was systematically trashed by the Nazis but the other one remains in use by the Jewish community of the city.

• The Vienna Prater

Any visitor to Vienna should see the Orson Wells classic The Third Man. Anyone who has will remember the iconic scene in which the Wells character delivers some of the greatest lines in movie history. ‘In Italy for 30 years under the Borgias they had warfare, terror, murder, and bloodshed, but they produced Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci, and the Renaissance. In Switzerland they had brotherly love – they had 500 years of democracy and peace, and what did that produce? The cuckoo clock.’ These lines were delivered aboard the Riesenrad, a Ferris wheel type ride in the Prater, a park on the eastern side of the city centre. Riding the wheel itself is still possible although for a fee, while wondering in the park is completely free.

• A stroll around the Ringstrasse

A good way to see Vienna is to take a stroll around the Ringstrasse. This route will take you past most of the impressive sights as well as along a part of the Danube canal. Brief sidetracks will take you to the Stadtpark or to cafes or bars for refreshments. If you happen to be unlucky with the weather tram routes cover the complete circle so you can finish the journey without getting too wet.

Top 5 Budget Accommodation in Vienna

• Pension Carantania – 3-Star – Double Room Price: from €41
• Suite Hotel 200m zum Prater – 3-Star -Double Room Price: from €52
• Austria Trend Hotel – 3-Star – Double Room Price: from €50
• Hotel Hadrigan – 3-Star – Double Room Price: from €59
• Pension Dr. Geissler – 3-Star – Double Room Price: from €64

Photo of Euro coins and bank notes by Donaldtownsend

This article ignores almost all of them, however, and explains where you can find the best, or at least most authentic, Viennese food going.

1. Korso Bei Der Oper

According to reports from people who can afford to eat there, the Korso Bei Der Oper is one of the best restaurants in Vienna. This is comforting as it is certainly one of the most expensive as my short and unhappy visit demonstrated. The food is reported to be simple but refined and worth the price if you can afford it. The restaurant is part of the Hotel Bristol which lends it even more elegance and, as the name suggests, is very convenient for the Staatsoper. Reservations are essential.

2. Schweizerhaus

About as far in tone as you can imagine from the Korso Bei Der Oper is the Schweizerhaus.

Set in the middle of the Prater and with its own very large garden, Schweizerhaus provides good food at lowish prices to a lot of people. This is the place to come and relax with friends in summer, drink a few beers and wash them down with a Weiner Schnitzel. Off season visitors should be aware, however, the Schweizerhaus closes for the winter in October.

3. Figlmüller

If Weiner Schnitzel is what you’re after then you will not be dissatisfied with Figlmüller. This restaurant is well known for both the quality of their schnitzel and the size. Dinner plate filling slabs of meat have been reported and thoroughly enjoyed as well. As is the case with any good restaurant visitors and locals alike are can be seen at the informal tables. Figlmüller is to be found at Wollzeile 5 near Stephansplatz U-Bahn station.

4. Steirereck

Back at the more formal end of the market is the formidable Steirereck. Located in the Stadtpark the restaurant actually gives you the choice of two experiences, one slightly less formal than the other. As well as the Viennese traditional dishes on offer are some more unusual ones that change regularly. Steirereck is also very well known for its selection of cheeses. For the main restaurant reservations are vital, head to Stadtpark station on the U-Bahn.

5. Sacher

For decades many guides have suggested that Sacher, the restaurant from which the Sacher cake took its name, is the place to eat in Vienna. I have not had the pleasure of trying it yet, however, my Viennese friends assure me that these days the place relies more on hype and tourist money than real quality. This is something to bear in mind if it is recommended by your hotel or other tourist handlers.

Top rated Vienna hotels with a restaurant

• Hotel Bristol
• Hotel Sophienalpe
• Hotel Bergwirt

Photo of traditional Austrian food and beer at Schweizerhaus, Vienna, Austria by ViZZual.com

The airport already handles an enormous number of passengers, 18.7 million in 2007, and this is set to grow even further. As with all airports though, arriving passengers still have to negotiate their way into the city centre of Vienna. This is a brief guide.

There are three main options for getting from the airport to Vienna city centre if you are not being met by hotel services: the bus, the train or a taxi.

Schwechat Airport – Vienna by taxi

For those with large suitcases and deep pockets there is no doubt that the simplest way into town is by taxi. Visitors are warned, however, to ensure that they hire an official taxi and that the driver uses the meter. There have been instances of unlicensed drivers quoting very low prices to unsuspecting tourists and then adding extortionate extras on at the destination. There are booking desks in the arrival halls and the contact information of licensed companies is available as well.

Schwechat Airport – Vienna by train

After the taxi the next most useful way into town is the train. The City Airport Train (CAT) runs into Wien Mitte every half an hour during the day. This takes just 16 minutes, a quick journey time, and visitors can then link up to the metro system to finish their journey to disparate parts of the city. The S-bahn also links the airport to Wien Nord which can be useful. These trains run much more slowly that the CAT but are also much cheaper.

Schwechat Airport – Vienna by bus

The bus links from the airport to Vienna are the best value option but also take the longest. Depending on the level of traffic it usually takes about forty five minutes to the Sudbanhof and an hour to the Westbanhof. Vienna Airport Lines, one of the bus companies running services from the airport, also has services straight from the airport to Bratislava which run throughout the day. Services to Budapest and Hungarian destinations are less frequent.

The costs of taking the bus or trains are not that different so I would advise you to make the decision of how you make the journey from the airport into the city based on where in Vienna you want to go. The bus link to the Westbanhof will get you into the west of the city quicker than taking the train and then switching to the metro but the 16 minutes to Wien Mitte is a very good time to the south east of the city.

Visitors to Vienna are unlikely to encounter any problems getting from the airport to the city or, indeed, vice versa. The most important point to remember is if getting a taxi, make sure it is official and the driver used the meter.

Vienna Airport Hotels

• Eurohotel Vienna Airport, Fischamend
• Hotel NH Vienna Airport,  Schwechat
• Hotel Raststation, Schwechat

Photo of Vienna Airport Train by Gregorius Mundus

They are so close in fact that Ryanair flies into an airport known only to itself as Bratislava-Vienna. Anyway, this proximity means that visitors to one city can easily spend a day in the other and make it back in time for tea. I have written this post from the point of view of travelling from Vienna to Bratislava since that is the way I did it but it can be done vice versa.

Vienna – Bratislava by bus

As with everything when you are travelling, the first consideration is most likely to be cost if you don’t have much money and comfort if you do. Bearing this in mind the budget means of transport is, as always, the bus. There are several companies running buses along the short route, Eurolines is probably the most well known although their Austrian site is a pain to use. The Slovak one is useful though. The bus takes about an hour and a half and should cost up to twenty Euros depending on the time and season of travel. The bus means that the emphasis is firmly on the destination and not the journey which, while not unpleasant, is never anything more than bland.

Vienna – Bratislava by bus

The train is quicker than the bus, more comfortable and the journey more scenic. It can also be cheaper, advance tickets costing as little at nine Euros. That price goes up substantially if you cannot buy ahead, however. Both the buses and trains run regularly meaning that if you can’t plan ahead you aren’t going to be left hanging around for ages at the station.

Vienna – Bratislava by boat

The top end of the market is not, as is usually the case these days, taken by the plane. Flying between the two cities would in fact be completely pointless; you could walk the distance in the time it takes to go through security. The most pleasant means of transport is in fact the boat.

Both cities lie along the course of the river Danube as it winds its way through Europe and out into the Black Sea. Boats ply the course regularly, much more so in summer, and although it takes considerably longer the views and experience make up for it. The boats are generally full of contented looking people hanging over the railing and humming ‘Blue Danube’ to themselves. The price of the boat tickets is high since they are a tourist commodity and this puts many people off, one way to get around it is to take the boat in one direction and either the bus or train in the other.

“The Danube Toward Vienna” picture by Bill Barber 

However, when it comes to dining, the city is second to none and offers some of the finest local and international cuisine that you will find anywhere in the world. There is also a vast choice of vegetarian restaurants in the city as well, so if that is a culinary necessity, you will have plenty to choose from. Here’s a list of some of the more popular vegetarian eateries in Vienna. Enjoy the savory delights which might make the trip even more memorable.

• Bio Bar von Antun

Bio Bar von Antun restaurant features a very extensive menu that is roughly 90% organic and Vegan alike, as well as being a non-smoking facility. Lunches run about €7-8 ($9.50-11.00), there is a beer and wine list, and the restaurant is open for business from 11:30 a.m. until 11:00 p.m. 7 days a week.

• Café Kafka

Café Kafka is a vegetarian café that permits smoking, however it has no Vegan options. The restaurant is open Monday through Saturday from 8:00 a.m. until 11:00 p.m.

• Formosa Foods

Formosa Foods is a lacto and Vegan-friendly restaurant which also features Asian, Austrian, and Chinese cuisine. The restaurant also has a small shop attached that sells a variety of Vegan and vegetarian meat substitutes, as well as Vegan desserts.

• Gasthaus Schillinger

Gasthaus Schillinger is a vegan-friendly restaurant featuring an array of international cuisine as well as a lengthy beer and wine menu. There are only a few items that use eggs and milk in the ingredients, and they also offer Vegan cocktails with or without alcohol in the mixes.

• Gesundes

Gesundes is an organic and Vegan-friendly restaurant with lunches that are part Vegan and part vegetarian. The restaurant is open Monday through Friday only from 9:00 a.m. until 10:00 p.m. with lunches starting at 11:30 a.m.

• Go Veg Diner

Vegan-friendly catering, fast-food, and take-out menus available at Go Veg Diner. Asian and Western cuisine as well as other international faire is available. The hours of business Monday through Saturday are 11:00 a.m until 11:00 p.m and noon until 11:00 p.m. on Sundays.

• Hollerei

Hollerei offers organic Vegan-friendly Austrian cuisine with some vegetables grown in the restaurants own garden, and is open for lunch only, except on Sunday when they open for the dinner hour only. Asian and Mediterranean menus are available. The restaurant is open Monday through Saturday from 11:30 a.m. until 3:00 p.m. and Sundays from 6:00 p.m. until 11:00 p.m.

• Kostlich

Kostlich features organic and Vegan-friendly take-out format. This is a smoke-free vegetarian restaurant and serves no alcoholic beverages. Hours of operation are Monday through Thursday from 8:30 a.m. until 6:30 p.m. and on Fridays from 8:30 a.m. until 3:00 p.m.

• Mondscheinstuberl

Mondscheinstuberl Restaurant offers organic and Vegan friendly cuisine featuring some international faire. The prime focus is on Austrian cuisine with a Viennese emphasis. The restaurant is open for business Mondays through Fridays from 11.00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m.

Photo by chotda 

Relax in Salzburg at the Hotel Vogelweiderhof

Book a “Shaolin Package” at the lovely Hotel Vogelweiderhof in Salzburg for 210 euros per night. Special Offer including stay in a double room, breakfast, lunch, WOK dinner and 1 Shaolin treatment.

Visit Vienna and stay at the Hotel Am Brillantengrund

Book a 4-night stay at the 3-star Am Brillantengrund Hotel in Vienna city center and get a special price: Double room for 77 euros per night.

More Special Rates on Austria Hotels

Double room at the 4-star Hotel Mercure in Vienna for 139 euros per night (prepaid, not refundable).

Double Room at the 4-star Goldener Alder Hotel in Innsbruck for 119 euros per night (prepaid, not refundable).

Double Room at the 4-star AktivHotel Veronika in Seefeld mountain resort, Tyrol, for 140 euros per night (prepaid, not refundable).

• Wanderluster gives away free copies of Wanderlust and Lipstick.

• Visit_Rimini invites us to attend the Tiki 26 Beach Festival (April 1st – May 10th).

• ItalyTravelista recommends a visit to the Roman Houses in Rome’s Celio area.

• Madtravelmad invites us to check out its new look.

• Travelwriticus recommends a visit to the Museum of Technology in Vienna.

No expense is spared in the style category when it comes to ringing in the New Year. When starting the New Year in style is your aim look no further than the Vienna New Years ball. This ball means to bedazzle you into the New Years Celebrations with elegance. The annual ball is held at the Imperial Palace. The ticket to this year end ball celebration is considered one of the hottest tickets in Vienna.

Vienna Imperial Ball

The Imperial Ball is the high society event of the year. Tickets for this event are the hardest tickets to come by. The New Year’s Eve Ball event transforms into the largest and grandest celebration the city has seen. The event commences at 2pm promptly on December 31st and concludes at approximately 2am January 1st. Dancing, popping corks and fireworks best describe the highlights of this evening event.

New Year Concert of the Vienna Philharmonic

Traditionally the Vienna Symphony performs Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony on the eve of New Year’s Day as well as New Year’s Day before a live audience. While on New Year’s Day concert goers will be treated to a timeless medley of waltzes, polkas and operetta tunes performed by the Vienna Philharmonic. It should come as no surprising to know how hard it is to come by tickets to this most miraculous social event. Tickets for this concert are snatched up by those who seek to secure their place at Vienna’s second most social event of the year well in advance.

More popular events in Vienna

For those who are not so fortunate to acquire the coveted tickets to the Vienna social events of the year there are several other orchestras, concerts and social events to partake of for New Year Celebrations. It is noticeable throughout the city of Vienna that New Year’s Day Celebrations are well on the way with street lights and fireworks continuing to be a wondrous sight to behold. The festivities of the New Years Celebration fill the air with the sweetness and sounds of fanfare well into the evening. Parades are a specific component to experience during the New Year Celebrations. Innsbruck features brass band parades and evening fanfares in the Old Town for the year end occasion.

Concluding the final days of the year can be done with the utmost of foresight and planning or with last minute flare of a procrastinator. Either way, the city of Vienna will provide the perfect backdrop for the countdown to New Years end and the heralding in of the next year 2009. As the finally days of 2008 are upon us you still have plenty of time to participate in Vienna New Year’s Day Celebrations. Popular events such as the State Opera and the Volksoper presented for your listening and viewing pleasure Vienna will make this an end of year celebration to remember. These gala performances of Johann Strauss’ Die Fledermaus are not to be missed. Toast in the New Year in Vienna and in style.

Photo of Vienna town hall at night originally posted by ahisgett

1.  Vienna Christmas Market

Traveling to Austria during the festive season and want to know how to celebrate Christmas in Vienna? Check out this article on Christmas markets in Vienna to know where to buy Christmas decorations, traditional Austrian treats and gifts

2. Top Things to do in Tokyo

Planning a holiday in Japan and looking for the best things to do in Tokyo? Check out this “Top 5″ tourist attractions in Tokyo including Tsukiji Fish Market,  the Tanabata festival, the Imperial Palace, the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Office and Akihabara Electric Town.

3.  Best Christmas Markets in Europe

Looking for a destination for a winter vacation or wondering what are the best places for Christmas shopping in Europe? The Venere Travel Blog reviews five of the best Christmas fairs in Europe: Nuremberg, Munich, Strasbourg, Vienna and Bolzano.

4. Vienna for kids

If you’re planning a family vacation in Austria check out this “Top 10″ things to do in Vienna with kids : 10 family-friendly places and attractions in Vienna including the ZOOM Children’s Museum, Demel pastry shop,  carriage rides through Vienna, Zanoni & Zanoni ice cream shop,  the Spanish Riding School,…

5. Best Opera Houses in Europe

An article for classical music enthusiasts and opera fans traveling to Europe. This “Top 5″ opera houses in Europe include the Naples Teatro di San Carlo, Barcelona Gran Teatre del Liceu, Stuttgart Wurttemberg State Theater, Prague Estates Theater, and East Sussex opera theater.
Picture of Christmas ball originally posted by krisdecurtis

Aside from the traditional German Christmas markets or Weihnachtsmärkte, there are many other European destinations where you can spend the magical Advent time. Europe reveals its most atmospheric side in this season and strolling through festively decorated streets and booths can be an unique experience: you will find not only lovely and inexpensive gifts, but also a true Christmas spirit that has nearly been lost.

1. Nuremberg Christmas Market

Nuremberg hosts one of Germany’s most famous and oldest Christmas markets which draws well over a million visitors each year. At the Christkindlesmarkt you will smell delicious aromas of spicy gingerbread, Bratwurst, cinnamon and mulled wine. The Christmas Market is located in the city center of Nuremberg and is magically transformed by evening into an enchanted fairytale village.

2. Munich Christmas Market

At Munich’s traditional Christmas market you can discover fine handcrafted items, warm yourself with roasted chestnuts and taste delicious Lebkuchen and Glühwein. Nearby, you can visit the popular Kripperlmarkt, one of the largest markets in Germany specialized in cribs and Nativity accessories.

3. Strasbourg Christmas Market

It is the oldest Christmas market in France and there are seven different locations in Strasbourg where the Marché de Noël is situated. The two largest ones are located in front of the beautiful 15th century Cathedral. But If you are looking for something more intimate, the Alsace region presents some of the most enchanting Christmas markets in all of France.

4. Vienna Christmas Market

A Christmas market tour or cruise in Austria cannot leave out Vienna, one of Europe’s most elegant and romantic cities. The Rathausplatz, site of Vienna’s Christkindlmarkt, is often snow covered and you will find traditional vanilla-flavored croissants (Vanillekipferl) and walnut balls with rum (Rumkugeln). Music events, pony-riding, fairytale scenes and more than 100 wooden market stalls await visitors from all over the world. Vienna Christmas Markets is held from mid November to Christmas Eve.

5. Bolzano  Christmas Market

Though in Italy the Mercatini di Natale are not as popular as Christmas markets in Northern Europe, some small markets are really worth a visit.  Located in Trentino-Alto Adige, Bolzano  is home to Italy’s best-known Christmas fair. The main city square hosts 80 little wood houses where you can buy handcraft Nativity ornaments and delicious Christmas treats including the famous Bolzano Zelten.  After shopping at Bolzano’s Christmas stands, visit the Enchanted Wood in the nearby Palais Campofranco.

Picture of Christmas decoration originally posted by krisdecurtis

Vienna is an amazing city full of culture, history and music. No matter what the age of your children you can find fun things to do for the entire group. This list is my families “top 10”.

1. ZOOM Children’s Museum

ZOOM is the hands on place to take your kids in Vienna. ZOOM has a changing schedule but will include 4 or 5 different choices depending on your child’s interest and age. This is totally kid powered fun that they can really sink their teeth into. You are encouraged to make a reservation ahead of time. We have experienced the art class first hand. They begin by donning appropriately sized coveralls for this painting extravaganza, the class is taught by professionals and really encourage the kids to get their hands dirty. This included color shading, mixing and even spraying paint on to the paper covered walls! Anything goes here to let your little ones express themselves with color and at the end of the session you can take your masterpieces home to decorate your walls or even use as wrapping paper.

2. Schönbrunn Palace

There are so many things to do at Schönbrunn you will only have a problem choosing which one! There is a Kinder program to the right of the main entrance of the Palace; this includes setting the imperial table and dressing up as a royal child. Kids will learn the differences between royal and middle class children as well as what kids ate and played with from the time period. Located within the palace gardens are the Maze and Labyrinth. Both are geared towards a range of ages in children and you can let them run free trying out all the hands on fun and activities, like the amazing playground and climbing equipment.

3. Demel

Need a break from the walking and can’t get your kids to stop? Try grabbing a table in the back of Demel (one of the most famous Konditorei in Vienna). You view the glass enclosed kitchen and your little one can watch till their hearts content of huge rollers pressing out dough, or cakes being iced right before their eyes… you will actually have time to enjoy your Melange and torte.

4. Natural History Museum

The building alone will stop you in your tracks but the sheer volume of the collections inside will knock you out. Start at the insects and work your way through to the mammals. If your child has a special interest in a particular species you are sure to find it here either in formaldehyde or behind glass. They even have a special hands on section just for kids. For a special treat stop in the café, you can order up a chocolate fondue for the table. This will revive everyone!

5. Schmetterling Haus

Located between the Albertina and the Burg Garten, the Schmetterling haus is a small conservatory that even the littlest in your group will enjoy. As you walk through be ready for butterflies of all colors to land on you and come along for a ride. You can even see them hatching out of their cocoons! After walking through you can sit and enjoy a short film on a variety of butterflies and moths.

6. Carriage Ride through Vienna

No trip to Vienna will be complete without a fiaker ride through the city. The kids absolutely love it! After all the walking you do in Vienna, everyone needs a break while having someone point out all the “must sees”. Start at either Stephansdom or Michaeler Platz, you can opt for a shorter ride (less expensive) or take the longer route along the ring.

7. Zanoni & Zanoni

Ice cream is king in Vienna! Zanoni has two locations in the first district and open year round. They have the largest selection of amazing flavors that will be sure to please everyone in your family.

8. Prater

The Prater is one of the most amazing and oldest amusement parks in Europe. Take the entire family on the ReisenRad to see over all of Vienna. Rides here range from frightening to the easy bumper cars of yesteryear. Perfect for the entire family.

9. Schönbrunn Zoo

Located on the Palace grounds is the oldest zoo in Vienna. The zoo has been updated since the imperial days and has some really great exhibits throughout. If your little ones love a certain animal check the feeding times and get an up close and personal view.

10. Spanish Riding School

Watching the Lipizzans dance will amaze kids of all ages! A good deal for families is to buy tickets to view the morning exercises and take a guided tour of the barns. Take some time afterwards to stop in the café for cake and coffee.

Photo of the Spanish Riding School show, Vienna originally posted by BrianScott

In the winter, the city exudes excitement with opera, dance, theater, concerts and lights. In particular the traditional Christmas markets bring the city to life and high activity. From the end of November and until Christmas, one can find, ‘Christkindlmarkt’ or Christmas market on every corner of Vienna. Small huts provide you with hand crafted or other Christmas presents, plenty of food, and hot punch and especially Gluhwein, sweet and heated mulled wine. The aroma of candied goodies and roasted chestnuts waft around the small market stalls.

Viennese Christmas markets – a brief history

Vienna’s Christmas markets are steeped in tradition. They go back seven centuries to 1298, when Albrecht-1 granted the Viennese the privilege of holding a December market or Dezembermarkt.. In the 18th century it assumed the name of Krippenmarkt (crib market) reserved for small traders. In 1814 around the time of the Wiener Kongress, the practice of giving Christmas presents was started and the market was located at Am Hof which started selling Christmas goodies. Since then the nature and scale of these markets has changed extraordinarily. Since 1975 a market has been held at the Wiener Rathausplatz, and it has not lost any of its charm – quite on the contrary it attracts more and more visitors each year. More than 3 million people visit the market each year. Last year there were 21 official Advent markets in Vienna selling a vast array of Christmas gifts and delicious treats.

Favorite things to eat

The Christmas Market is most famous for its special Christmas treats. Taste the hot punch, which is a traditional favorite with some 200 booths serving 10,000 liters of the delicious beverage everyday. Flavors range from berry, apple and orange to coconut, chocolate and tropical. Mulled wine, grilled sausages, roasted chestnuts and caramelized sugared almonds are other treats that you can try.

Vienna has many markets throughout the city. The most colorful is the one held in front of the town hall (Rathausplatz). In Spittelberg, and Karlsplatz there are art and crafts markets, Freyung has the Old Vienna Market and there is a market at the Schönbrunn palace.

Here are some memorable markets that you could visit:

Rathaus

It is the most famous of Vienna’s Christmas markets. Rathaus is set outside the Gothic-styled Town Hall and is very beautiful. During market time the surrounding garden is dressed up magically with lanterns, snowmen and fairytale huts. Children especially will enjoy Rathaus. The Town Hall, which is decorated as a giant advent calendar also hosts a Christmas workshop where the kids can try their hand at making Christmas gifts.

Children also have pony rides and a motorized train that takes them to carousel rides. The market is at the center and offers the Gluhwein (hot, mulled wine), punch and hot snacks. Also available are a wide range of gifts and Christmas decorations. The tree with seals, the “Kasperl tree“, the “Herzerlbaum” (Hearts tree) as well as the “Post office in the clouds” offer a perfect setting for souvenir photos.

Karlsplatz market

This market is on from November 23 to December 23. Karlsplatz market is situated in a square at the front of the church of St. Charles Borromea in the Belvedere quarter of the city. It is a warm and exciting place to celebrate the Christmas spirit and pick up some souvenirs. A central area full of straw offers playing space for children. But the market is most notable for its excellent craft stalls. The stalls are open by midday but are in their element at night, all lit up and smelling of roasted chestnuts. Craftsmen exhibit examples of their wood and leather working. Some attractive Christmas baubles are available like painted glass candle holders, and also handmade silver jewelery.

Schonbrunn Market

This is a market located outside the Schonbrunn palace, the summer retreat of the royal family. It may be small in size but exhibits a wonderful collection of crafts from all over Austria and Germany. It is open from 24th November to 26th December. The palace provides a spectacular backdrop of an idyllic Christmas village.

Spittleberg

This is a lovely historical quarter, where both traditional and modern handicrafts are sold on narrow, granite stoned paved alleyways, niches and courtyards. It is considered Vienna’s most authentic Christmas market.

Maria Theresien Platz

It is one of Vienna’s newest markets and not as spectacular as the others perhaps. But you will find an enchantingly wide range of products like handmade silver rings and honey based candle and beauty products.

Once you have tasted the atmosphere of Christmas in these lovely Christmas Markets, the memories will beckon you every year. Vienna’s Christmas market attracts millions of visitors and helps celebrate Christmas in a joyous, festive spirit that stays with you long after December.

Photo of Vienna Christmas Market, Austria originally posted by Edi Weissmann

Legend has it that when the Turks fled they left behind several bags of coffee which were at first mistaken for horse or camel feed. Why anyone would mix supposed animal feed with hot water, sugar and milk to prepare a refreshing beverage has never been explained. What is certain is that in 1685 the drink was popular enough to support the opening of a dedicated coffee shop and a Vienna institution was born.

What endears the coffee houses of Vienna to me over, for example, Parisian street cafes, is the ability to take my time without some overbearing waiter trying to rush me onward. The provision of newspapers (including some in English) complements this relaxed, ruminative atmosphere and it’s easy to see why the coffee houses became the favourite haunts of writers and artists. Gustav Klimt in particular was a permanent feature on the coffee house scene. Another regular visitor, where he would discuss his ever more perverse view of the world, was one Adolf Hitler. But I’m confident that this is an unfortunate coincidence and does not reflect on the coffee house culture anymore than the Beer Hall putsch reflects on beer halls.

Traditionally, coffee in Vienna is served with a glass of water although more modern places are disregarding this. I am rather fond of the sausages served as light snacks although some may prefer the pastries and cakes available. If you do not want coffee itself most establishments serve wine or beer and some go as far as whole meals. The selection of refreshments available depends on the type of coffee house with most shops falling into two categories: the rough and ready Kaffeehaus, where working men gather, and the more refined salon. However, the more modern coffee houses do not fit easily into either of these categories.

For those, like me, with minimal German almost all waiters have very good English and are more than happy to talk you through the menu (which is another glaring contrast to Paris). Many of the options will be recognisable to any who have consumed coffee in other parts of the world although there are some irregularities such as a Mozart coffee, which is coffee with a shot of Mozart liqueur, and a Maria Theresa which is with orange liqueur. While each individual will have their favourite specific caf’ two of note are Café Hawelka on Dorotheergasse and Café Central on Herrengasse, which neatly illustrate the differences between Kaffehauses and salons.

Photo of pendant lamp in Café Demel, Vienna, Austria originally posted by nicholas mcgowan

• Morning walk at Schönbrunn Palace

Originally a hunting lodge/grounds turned summer palace of the Hapsburg’s – the ruling family of Austria for almost 700 years – Schönbrunn is a spectacular sight. The sunny-yellow Baroque style palace holds over 1,400 rooms within, including an opera theater, café, and kid’s museum. Only 40 of the Rococo style palace rooms are open to the public and with two different tours you can opt to see half or all of the 40 rooms. But don’t be fooled, while the palace within is interesting enough, if the weather is nice, take advantage of the sights to behold in the Baroque gardens and Schönbrunn park. The park is acres and acres of woods, perfectly trimmed tree-lined dirt paths, hidden fountains, statues, labyrinths, gardens and flowers, and the world-class Schönbrunn zoo – the oldest zoo in Europe. Take a moderate hike up to the Gloriette and get a royal view of Vienna.

• Naschmarkt Picnic at Volksgarten

When the Vienna River was covered up in 1898, the Naschmarkt – a world class market filled with reasonable eateries, exotic far-away foods, and off-the-market goods – was born. Be adventurous and make a picnic out of the wide variety of meats and cheeses, wines and chocolates, fruits and vinegars – then take it all to the lovely Volksgarten. Literally the “People’s garden”, the beautiful, rose-filled imperial garden sits in the middle of six must-see architecturally unique buildings in Vienna – the impressive Rathaus (City Hall) built in the Neo-Gothic style; the Classical Burgtheater; the Neo-Greek Parliament with statue of Athena, the Greek goddess of wisdom; the Museum’s Quarter comprised of the twin Natural History and Art History Museums, and the Museum of Modern Art; and the Hofburg, the Imperial central palace and government building of Vienna. If you don’t have time to make the trip out to Schönbrunn, the Hofburg is an equal substitution.

• An afternoon on the Kohlmarkt and Graben leading to Stephansdom

Walk towards the Hofburg from the Volksgarten and hang a left when you get to the horse and carriage-lined street. Pass through to In der Burg Square and out to Michaeler Platz – which holds a tiny portion of the original Roman foundations of Vienna – and crossover to the Kohlmarkt. With designer shops such as Louis Vuitton, Ralph Lauren, Demel (the ultimate Viennese chocolate shop) and Tiffany it’s a nice place to dream about the over-priced niceties displayed in the windows. At the end of the Kohlmarkt take a right and you are now in the Graben, or “ditch” – formerly the moat for the Roman military camp. In the middle of the ditch is the rather tall Trinity Column, a memorial of the plague that took hold of Vienna in the Middle Ages. Beyond the Graben is the most well known attraction of Vienna, St. Stephen’s Church. This massive Gothic cathedral still stands as a proud symbol of Vienna after numerous wars and struggles. Mozart died here in 1791 and it is the national church of Austria, most recently visited by his Holiness, the Pope in 2007.

• Evening on Kärtnerstrasse, Dinner and an Opera

Kärtnerstrasse is “main street” Vienna. A “foot zone” (no cars allowed here), this street is a haven for tourist and ritzy shopping, Viennese cafes, and street performers. Any of the side streets will provide you with a great dining or coffee house experience. A short walk down this famous street will lead you to the world-class National Opera which boasts over 300 productions per year and is one of the most important opera houses in Europe. The building seems to have a haunted past – not only did Allied bombs destroy the opera house during WWII, but it was so criticized after being built that the two architects responsible for the building both died in the same year (one from heart attack and one committed suicide) from the stress. Such illustrious singers and conductors as Gustav Mahler, Placido Domingo, Luciano Pavarotti, and Richard Strauss performed and made the Vienna State Opera a shimmering example of great opera. Wind up your visit in a truly Viennese style by seeing a production and going for Sachertorte at the world famous Sacher Hotel directly behind the opera.

Sounding more like the latest Disney attraction, than a huge forest, Wienerwald is incredible. It offers plenty of scenic open spaces, as well as four different types of forest. Whether you are in Vienna for 48 hours or 72 hours, a side trip to this nature lover’s paradise is well worth the effort. After a trip to Wienerwald, you will never view Vienna in the same way again. Why not take advantage of the off-season hotel/pension rates, and come visit during the fall? The show is free, and you can capture it in all it’s glory on film to show the folks back home.

Located west of Vienna, and bounded by the Danube, Traisen and Triesting rivers, Wienerwald is a relaxing and tranquil place, with many different types of trees, including pines, firs, oaks and beeches. There is plenty of wildlife, much of it having disappeared from other parts of Europe, where civilization encroaches upon the natural environment all too frequently. Wienerwald acts as the ‘lungs’ of Austria’s capital city of Vienna. Hiking through Wienerwald, one comes upon cute ‘lumberjack’ villages, ideal spots to stop and enjoy the local food and hospitality of the friendly local people.

The Vienna woods have very unique flora and fauna. Many leisure pursuits are available, including fishing, trekking, biking, horse riding and climbing. One of the most popular leisure pursuits in Wienerwald is mountain biking. It is paradise for those who enjoy this activity, with more than 250 kilometers of very well signposted mountain bike trails, offering trails to suit all levels of competence.

It is easy to forget you are just a stone’s throw from Vienna. Just when you are thinking that you are lost in the back end of beyond, you are bound to stumble upon one of the Austrian Gasthäuser and Pensionen, offering an authentic taste of Austrian food. There are plenty of mountain bike hire companies in Vienna, and if you want more information, the concierge at your hotel, or hotel reception, are sure to have details.

The Vienna forest was designated a Biosphere Reserve in 2005 and includes the area between the Northern Alps, and the Pannonic Basin. The eastern slopes of Wienerwald offers hot springs and marine terraces of what used to be a sea, thanks to a geological ‘rupture zone’. Part of the forest is limestone, and it has the typical formations of rock, with sharply defined gullies. For flora and fauna spotters, the geological differences and various climatic areas have resulted in an unusual variety of habitats. A very important beech forest and the largest European area of ‘downy oak forest’ plus sub-Mediterranean pine forests, along with endemic Austrian pines, all co-habit peacefully in this rural forest idyll.

The central part of the Vienna woods has many large meadows, and plenty of extensively farmed open land, formed by traditional farming practices extending back over the last hundred years.

The Wienerwald Biosphere Reserve has 36 areas; a total area of almost 6000 hectares and the coveted status of Biosphere Reserve guarantees the area long-term protection from development. But don’t think that because this area is a nature reserve that it is uninhabited. There are more than 100,000 people who live permanently in the Biosphere Reserve zone, which includes many rural communities, and even parts of the Western Viennese districts. Needless to say, these communities enjoy an extremely high quality of life. The woods are considered to be one of the most important local recreation areas for the Viennese, particularly as an escape from the often congested urban parts of Vienna.

So next time you take a trip to Austria, and stay in Vienna, make sure you take advantage of what is without a doubt one of the most splendid natural areas left in Europe.

Hotels in the Vienna forest available on venere.com:

Hotel Sophienalpe

Located in the peaceful and picturesque Wienerwald area, about 7 miles from Vienna’s city center, the Hotel Sophienalpe is the perfect place for a relaxing family holiday in Austria. Hotel amenities include a restaurant serving both delicious local specialties and international cuisine, a bar, an indoor swimming pool, and a conference room. An abudant breakfast is served in the morning to get you started on a beautiful day in the Viena forest.

Hotel Schild

Set in a quiet residential area next to Wienerwald, the Hotel Schild enjoys an outstanding location, 25 minutes away from the hustle and the bustle of Vienna. This comfortable 4-star hotel offers an Internet point, a cafeteria, a bar, a breakfast room, as well as wellness and spa amenities including steam baths, sauna and relaxation room.

Photo of Wienerwald originally posted by xell42

Declared world heritage site by UNESCO in 1996, the palace and gardens of Schönbrunn are a must-see for lovers of princely Baroque and Gesamtkunstwerk – a German word for a unified work of art. The impressive palace was the residence of the Habsburg emperors from the 18th century to 1918. Emperor Franz Josef I, known in popular culture films and books as the husband of Sissi, lived most of his life here. The Schönbrunn gardens are also home to the world’s first zoo, dating back to 1752. The palace offers several fun tours, including an Imperial Tour, a Grand Tour and a Children’s Tour, that can be booked online.

2. The Semmering Railway

Built between 1848 and 1854, the Semmering Railway runs 41 km (25 miles) between Gloggnitz (Lower Austria) and Semmering (Styria) in a spectacular high mountain landscape. A must for railway enthusiasts, this great work of civil engineering and a masterpiece in the combination of technology and nature is internationally recognised as the first true mountain railway. With its 100 stone bridges, 11 iron bridges, 16 viaducts and 14 tunnels, it is the true prototype of mountain railway lines and is still in use today. You can ride this piece of train track on the train from Vienna to Graz (in itself a world heritage site since 1999). Sit on the left, for the best views. On the way back from Graz to Vienna, sit on the right.

3. Hallstatt-Dachstein Salzkammergut

This great alpine region in Upper Austria, Styria and Salzburg is of extraordinary natural beauty. As far back as the 2nd millennium BC, salt deposits were exploited here, hence the region’s name Salzkammergut, which translates to Chamber of Salt Estate. A must-see for nature and architecture lovers. Popular towns in the Salzkammergut include Hallstatt, Altmünster, Fuschl am See, Ebenau, Traunkirchen and Obertraun. The region is also known for its culinary delicacies, including a kind of sugared pancake with raisins called Kaiserschmarrn, award-winning wines and famous fish restaurants.

4. Historic Center of Salzburg

The Old Town of Salzburg is a splendid example of baroque architecture and in 1996 it was deservedly added to Unesco’s list of world heritage sites. It is one of the best preserved city centers in Austria and presents a dramatic Alpine setting. Salzburg has of course been a long time favorite for music lovers as well. Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart was born here, and his birth house and residence are now open to the public. Most of the scenes from the film The Sound of Music starring Julie Andrews were filmed here. In July and August Salzburg becomes the setting for the famous Salzburg Festival, a summer opera event that attracts hundreds of thousands of international visitors each year.

Photo of Schönbrunn Gardens originally posted by 29cm