Austria · City Guide
Vienna
Vienna is one of Europe's most magnificent and culturally profound capitals, a city of extraordinary imperial heritage, world class art museums, the finest coffeehouses in the world, outstanding opera and classical music, beautiful Baroque and Jugendstil architecture and an extraordinary food and wine culture. From the Kunsthistorisches Museum and the Schönbrunn Palace to the Naschmarkt and the Vienna State Opera, Vienna rewards every day of exploration with something genuinely exceptional.
Elect's take
"Vienna operates at a level of cultural refinement that I find genuinely inspiring. The combination of the imperial heritage, world class art, the coffeehouse tradition and a contemporary food scene that has evolved while respecting its traditions creates a destination I return to with great pleasure."
The Kunsthistorisches Museum is one of the world's great art museums, housing the extraordinary Habsburg imperial art collection with outstanding Vermeer, Raphael, Bruegel and Velázquez among hundreds of masterworks. The Belvedere houses the finest Klimt collection in the world including The Kiss. The Vienna State Opera is one of the world's premier opera houses. The coffeehouse tradition — UNESCO recognised as an Intangible Cultural Heritage — is experienced at its finest at Café Central, Café Hawelka and Café Landtmann. Schönbrunn Palace with its extraordinary gardens provides a magnificent day out. The Naschmarkt is one of Europe's finest outdoor food markets.
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What to expect
Kunsthistorisches Museum
One of the world's great art museums housing the extraordinary Habsburg imperial collection.
Belvedere
Home to the world's finest Klimt collection including the iconic The Kiss.
Vienna State Opera
One of the world's premier opera houses with outstanding productions year round.
Viennese Coffeehouses
A UNESCO recognised tradition of café life, cake and intellectual conversation.
Schönbrunn Palace
A magnificent Baroque imperial palace with outstanding gardens and rooms.
Naschmarkt
One of Europe's finest outdoor food markets with outstanding international produce.
