VIENNA, AUSTRIA
Vienna is one of my favorite places to visit. Most think of Paris, Rome, and London when they think of European cities to explore, but Vienna is worth adding to your travel list when in that part of the world.
Austria has deep, deep roots in music. The country was once known as a hub for classical musicians, and was the birthplace of composers like Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and Johann Strauss II. Austria was also home to the Trapp Family Singers, whose story became a Rodgers and Hammerstein play and later the film we all know as The Sound of Music. To visit the locations of the film, visit nearby Salzburg and book a Sound of Music Tour.
The most famous attraction in Vienna itself is the Vienna State Opera House, home to the Vienna Philharmonic. Opening in 1869 with Mozart’s Don Giovanni, the Opera House has seen nearly 150 years of history, and even survived a bombing during World War II. Peak ball season is during the Vienna Opera Ball, where Viennese elite populate the opera house. Even if you don’t have a ticket to the opera, you can watch the performance on a big screen just outside. Best part–it’s free to watch from the big screen!
Vienna also features the Hofmobiliendepot, also known as the Imperial Furniture Collection. Established almost 300 years ago, the museum mainly features an extensive collection of furniture from the House of Habsburg, whose final ruler was Empress Maria Theresa. She ruled over 11 countries, including Austria, Bohemia, and Transylvania, and ruled additional lands by marriage, including the Holy Roman Empire. The museum also features modern-day furniture to show a progression of Viennese décor post-monarchy.
Biking throughout the city is second nature, which explains why people are super healthy here. Bikes and bike stands are everywhere. If you want to get out of the hustle and bustle of the city, take a boat ride down the river. Beautiful landmarks and small towns line the river’s edge allowing you to get off and explore.
