Summary: Vienna, known for its elegance, its opera, and its schnitzel, is the capital of Austria and one of our favourite European cities. It was ranked first equal for quality of life in the Economist's 2005 report; it was the home of Mozart and Freud; and the Hapsburg empire, the Holy Roman Empire and Hitler were all based there at some point. Fact box Name: Vienna Place: Capital of Austria Population: 1.7 million Known for: The Third Man & Before Sunrise Average temperatures: summer 22-25 degrees / winter 0 Airports: Vienna-Schwechat Airport OR: Graz, Linz or Bratislava Price of a pint: €3-4 Price of a dorm bed: €20 Price of a public transport ticket: €1.70 single Layout It's easy to get lost in Vienna, since the street names change often, but then again it's also easy to get around. Most of the main attractions are in or around the multi-named ring roads, including the Rathaus, the Museumsquartier, the Opera and a variety of parks and squares. Mariahilfer Strasse heads west up to the Westbahnhof, the main train station, around which you'll find the backpacker mecca of hostels, supermarkets and cheap eateries. Accommodation There's a huge variety of beds to choose from. We like Hostel Ruthensteiner, near the Westbahnhof, and Wombat's nearby is also popular. Check Hostelbookers for a wider range Food You're spoilt for choice in Vienna. Have a sausage from a street vendor or sample one of the ubiquitous kebabs - they're cheaper near the Westbahnhof than at the other end of Mariahilfer Strasse. Definitely have a coffee in one of the Viennese coffee shops, but be aware that the coffee might taste different to what you expect! While you're at it, sample Sachertorte at Cafe Sacher. Yum. If you're on the cheap, buy rolls at the supermarket or eat at University mensas (eating halls). Making lunch your main meal will save you a packet due to the prevalence of meal deals at lunchtime. And visit a heurige for an authentic local experience, sampling local wines and locally produced food. We love the Naschmarkt for the variety of restaurants, especially the Japanese one where you can get a bento box for €7 even at dinnertime. Transport €1.70 for a single ticket will get you almost anywhere you want to go, but most of the attractions are walkable. The transport network is excellent though if you do use it. Attractions - free Vienna's a great city for just wandering around in. Visit Mariahilfer Strasse for shopping, or the banks of the Danube for a beer in a floating pub. See more at http://indietravelpodcast.com
