VIENNA
Travelling to Austria’s capital for a slice of old-world glamour? Here’s what you shouldn’t miss.
Restaurant: Steirereck im Stadtpark
Steirereck im Stadtpark is a family restaurant with two Michelin stars. It describes its food as ‘Austrian cuisine beyond its boundaries’. Set in the peaceful Stadtpark, its sleek contemporary architecture and adventurous cooking make it the perfect setting for dinner.
Bar: Kleinod
Vienna has no shortage of elegant bars, but Kleinod stands out with its 1930s inspired décor and a loving dedication to mixology. The dark wood paneling and moodily lit chandeliers give it an old-world glamour. Check out the rooftop terrace in summer for people watching.
Live Venue: Café Bellaria
Located just off the MuseumsQuartier, Café Bellaria is a unique venue combining Viennese elegance and live performances. Classically trained singers come to practice their repertoire before performing at the opera. Enjoy your free show with an accompaniment of coffee and pastries.
Hotel: Hotel Sans Souci Wien
This boutique hotel presents an updated twist on classic Viennese luxury comfort. Ideal for art lovers, each room at Hotel Sans Souci Wien has its own uniquely individual design and the hotel itself houses an impressive collection of modern art.
Gallery: Belvedere 21
Belvedere 21 is the go-to for contemporary art (both Austrian and international), film and music. Take in the post war modernist architecture and rolling exhibits, before heading to the in-house Lucy Bar for a drink.
Public Space: Fritz Wieninger’s Vineyard
For an escape from the city, head to the outskirts for a walk in the vineyards; Vienna is the only metropolis in Europe that has vineyards within the city limits. Take advantage of it. For the best views on the city, stop by Fritz Wieninger’s vineyard on Nussberg hill.
Neighbourhood: Mariahilf
If you feel like stepping outside the city’s opulent grandeur, head west to the multicultural and eminently cool Mariahilf neighbourhood. Wander around the Naschmarkt for food, antiques and a bit of everything else, or discover some of Vienna’s best vibrant street art.
Film Festival: Vienna International Film Festival (the Viennale)
Held annually in the late autumn since 1960, the Viennala projects a range of international and Austrian film in Vienna’s many vintage cinemas. Traditional cinema venues are Gartenbaukino, Urania, Metro-Kino, Filmmuseum and Stadtkino, and the coveted Vienna Film Prize is awarded at the end of the festival.
Music Festival: Donauinselfest
Donauinselfest, Europe’s largest free open-air festival, is annually held on Danube Island in September. The unforgettable three-day experience combines pop, rock, EDM and indie rock, alongside free swimming and outdoor parties. Like Coachella, but inexpensive and European.
