Visiting Vienna
Vienna is the capital of Austria and is located on the River Danube. The city was the political center of the Austrian Empire and is also home to ornate palaces and museums. Many were built for or by the Hapsburg family and trace the family history as well as the country's history.
Vienna has many hotels and other accommodations near the airport and in surrounding areas. You can find hotels in every price range. The inner city is home to monuments and parks that are popular tourist attractions. Old, ornate churches can be found here as well as other building such as Opera house, the University and Parliament.
When planning a trip to Vienna, please note that most attractions are closed on public holidays in the city. Austrian public holidays include: January 1, January 6, the Monday after Easter, May 1, Ascension Thursday, The Feast of Corpus Christi, August 15, November 1, December 8, December 25 and 26. Just about all museums, palaces and many shops are closed on these days.
Vienna Museums
Vienna is the home of Kuntshall Wien; a museum with a collection of modern and contemporary art. Featuring both Austrian and International artists. This museum is run by the city of Vienna.
The Sigmund Freud Museum is dedicated to the Father of Modern Psychology. It is run by the Sigmund Freud Society and traces the doctor's life and work.
The Austrian Gallery Belvedere was originally built for Prince Eugene of Savoy as a summer home. It is now open to the public for tours and contains art work and historical information. The gardens are spectacular and are also open for touring.
Palaces in Vienna
Several palaces built for the Hapsburg family in Vienna. The Imperial Palace is located in the inner city and it was from here that the Hapsburgs ruled for seven centuries. It was constructed in the early 13th century. The Gothic chapel on the site is still open on Sundays for services. The Vienna Boy's Choir sings here. The palace is open for tours during the week.
Near the Imperial Palace you will find The Gothic Cathedral of St. Stephens. Construction on this ornate cathedral was started in the thirteenth century and completed in the fifteenth century. The steeple of St. Stephens can be seen from all over the city.
Schonbrunn Palace was built as a summer residence for Empress Sisi. The grounds include a zoo, a park and large labyrinth that are open for tour as well as a Baroque style palace. Plan to spend a whole day here as there is so much to see at this palace.
The Belvedere Palace is another building in the Baroque style. Belveedere palace was the heart of the former Hapsburg empire. Currently The Austrian Gallery Belvedere is located here. In addition to viewing the artwork, you can tour the palace and gardens.
The Imperial Burial Vault is located below the Capuchin Church. This was the burial place for members of the Hapsburg family.
Author: Clinton Maxwell - writes for www.munich-to-vienna-via-salzburg.com.