Highlights of a visit to Vienna, Austria

When you visit Vienna Austria you are visiting the capital city of the country. It is located on the River Danube and you will find a collection of palaces and museums that are unrivaled anywhere else.

The Hapsburg family is responsible for the building of many of these places and the family history can be traced through the history of Vienna itself, and the buildings that you visit as you explore.

First admire the fabulous architecture in the churches and Parliament building, not to be missed during a visit. then turn your mind to museums and palaces, for which Vienna is most famous.

The Sigmund Freud Museum is something everyone should see. It is an entire museum dedicated to the great doctor’s work and his life. It is run by the Sigmund Freud Society and is an intriguing look at a great man.

When it comes to art make sure you take a tour of the Kuntshall Wien. It has both contemporary and modern art, in an important collection featuring artisit from around the world (not just those native to Austria).

Another art museum not to be missed is the Austrian Gallery Belvedere, which was originally built as a summer home for Prince Eugene of Savoy. There is a interesting collection of art and history contained in this museum.

The palaces of the Hapsburg family make a great day of tours on your Vienna vacation. The Imperial Palace is the location that this historic family ruled Vienna from, during their seven centuries of rule.

The famous Vienna Boy’s Choir sing at the Gothic chapel that is located on the site of the Imperial Palace. Check out the tours that are available during the week.

The Schonbrunn Palace has a zoo, park and labyrinth that offer tours to the public. Built as a summer home for the Empress Sisi it is a palace in the Baroque style, and a tour of the palace makes for a complete day trip.

Don’t forget to also visit the Imperial Burial Vault which is found under the Capuchin Church. It is the burial location for the Hapsburg family, and there are twelve emperors, nineteen empresses and one hundred and forty six aristocrats buried in the vault. Bit overcrowded for my liking!

Remember that a great many attractions are closed for public holidays. The holidays may be a bit different than you are used to. For instance, January 1 and January 6 are both holidays that are observed. A good travel agent can fill you in on the other holidays that you may not be aware of in Vienna.

You will find in Vienna that there are hotels to accommodate every type of traveler. If you are on a budget you will still be able to find a hotel that is within your budget.