Where to Find Happiness, Dreams and Music — All in One Place
Travel to this low-key European city around Christmas
Ever felt like you landed in a magical place straight out of a fairy tale? That’s how I felt when I first visited Vienna on a solo trip back in 2012.
This trip happened ten years ago but I remember it vividly, like it was only yesterday. I rubbed my eyes and Voila; I was in a dreamland for a weekend to experience a journey that would stay with me forever.
I was excited yet nervous about my first solo trip to Europe. What I didn’t know was how much I will relish it. I also didn’t know I will be lucky to live in Europe later on in my life. And I will get to make the most of the low-cost and yet decent service airlines by visiting over 20 countries.
Vienna is the dazzling gem that offers an unrivaled blend of historical grandeur and contemporary sophistication.
Prepare to immerse yourself in the city’s rich cultural heritage, stroll along the majestic boulevards, and marvel at the breathtaking architecture.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, know that Vienna will captivate and inspire you.
How I Ended up Here
Back when I lived in India, travel was the best way to explore the world for me.
I was in Paris on a business trip in November 2012, and I chose Vienna for a personal trip. I was curious about the city and my gut told me it would not be a decision I regret.
I remember my flight from Paris got delayed by four hours, so I had some anxious moments on the flight. The plane would not take-off because of the sudden snowfall.
Thankfully, I arrived in Vienna around noon and the delay didn’t affect my plans a lot. No matter how you end up here, keep at least two days to a week to experience it.
The Weekend Begins
The capital of Austria is the confluence of four different cultural influences — German, French, Italian and English. The Gothic, Baroque and Modern architecture reflect its cultural heritage beautifully.
The language most spoken is German. The city has a heavy German and French influence.
The streets of Vienna are paved with culture, the streets of other cities with asphalt. ~Karl Kraus
I started by looking for my hotel to get fresh. It was in the city centre and felt more like a guest house. I walked in to see a warm, cozy place decorated with antiques. It impressed me.
When inside, the hot coffee and the freshly baked cakes were irresistible. My room was so cozy that I had a powerful urge to drop my plans and take a nap instead.
Reminding myself how precious the little time I had in the city was helpful in stepping out.
The First Impression
First impressions can be strong.
Right from the moment I arrived in the city, I could sense the Vienna air oozing with romance. Oh, the sounds of River Danube, the serene breeze and the lively music! Combined with the aroma of freshly roasted coffee in the charming coffeehouses that dot the city’s streets.
Radiant smiles all around. People gearing up for the Christmas ball decorating their beloved city. I could have serenaded with a skip in my step literally. That’s how I will always remember Vienna.
Apparently 450 balls that take place in Vienna each year, mostly between January to March. You can experience it for about a 100 euros.
Something truly enchanting about this city that gripped me from the moment I arrived was the music I heard everywhere I went. No doubt I was in the city of Beethoven and Mozart. It was like a scene from a Christmas movie, only more magical.
What further added to its charm was the old tram chugging through the glowing city centre. I stepped out when I saw enticing landmarks and rushed back in when I felt cold outside. I recommend taking the day-pass for the tram to cover the famous sights, which was 2 euros. Dirt cheap by European standards.
The Adventure Continues
When you are a tourist in Europe, there is little that you want to miss.
I covered the central areas of Ringstrasse, exploring Vienna’s countless museums, galleries, and concert halls, where you can witness some of the greatest works of art and music in human history. Notable museums are Museumsquartier and The House of Music.
In Vienna, every corner reveals a new wonder, whether it’s the Baroque splendor of St. Stephen’s Cathedral or the breathtaking views from the Danube Tower.
By the time I reached Schonbrunn, it was 4 in the evening and I had it snowed. These magnificent palace and gardens once served as the imperial residences of the Habsburg dynasty. There were over 1440 rooms in the palace!
I came outside to enjoy the Christmas market in the huge palace gardens. The hot gluhwein, also called the hot mulled wine and the kartoffelpuffer or the potato pancakes, were delightful.
Vienna has more vineyards than any other city and also goes by ‘The Wine City’. So many specialities! Personally, I call it ‘The city of endless charms’.
Keep the Food and the Music Coming
My next stop at Belvedere palace was a perfect Christmas shopping spot. I found some cool souvenirs to take back. The ball gowns and the accessories were a sight to behold.
When I returned to the city centre, I could hear the Christmas choir singing at the Raffles Hall. Curiosity caught the best of me. The hall was beautiful and had one of the largest Christmas markets.
The decorations, the snow, the melody were mesmerizing. Even though I was alone, I felt like I belonged here.
Once the thrill subsided, I realized how ravenous I was. Exploring the world -renowned culinary delights seemed like a great idea. I chose the famous weiner schnitzel or the Viennese schnitzel made of veal for my main course and the sacher torte for my dessert. I loved the dessert, but I wasn’t much into veal being a preferable vegetarian.
Sacher Torte is one of the most famous cakes in the world, made by someone called Franz Sacher in 1832. You can try it at Cafe Sacher.
Dream on, but don’t imagine they’ll all come true. When will you realize Vienna waits for you. ~Billy Joel
The Last Day And the Next Trip
By the time I returned to my hotel, it was late. Was I dreamy in the ‘city of dreams’, the home to Sigmund Freud? Not at all. Tired and yet content with my day, I drifted off into a deep sleep. I had a slow start the next day.
I reserved my last day in Vienna to admire the architecture of well-known churches and revisit my favorite city’s central spots a second time. This is the only time in my travels to over 50 countries I didn’t mind visiting the same place again the next day.
I came to Vienna a second time with my husband in 2016 during Christmas, when we lived in Belgium.
I showed him Vienna through my eyes, and he equally loved it. The highlights of the trip were two opera performances in the Vienna Opera House, a classical musical performance and, of course, the fabulous Christmas markets.
For the opera, we were lucky to get good seats one time, and the other time we were in a corner. Both times we became enthralled by the sensual performances. You typically pay 100 to 150 euros for a good seat if you buy in advance.
You can experience the amazing musical concerts for as low as 20 to 30 euros.
In Conclusion: What Makes It Special
There are only a few places you want to go back because they make you feel you are home. In a few years, I plan to return to Vienna for a third time, this time to let my daughter experience it.
Anyone who enjoys culture and music will have a good time here. Vienna isn’t just a destination, it’s an experience that will leave an indelible mark on your soul.
- From the opulent balls that offer a glimpse into its rich cultural heritage to the symphonies of classical music concerts and museums, this city will seduce you with its musical prowess.
- If you’re visiting during the holiday season, be prepared to be spellbound by one of the best Christmas markets in Europe.
- If that’s not enough, the grand Opera House experience will transport you to another world altogether.
- But what truly sets Vienna apart are its people, whose warm hospitality will make you feel right at home. And don’t even get me started on the mouth-watering desserts!
Travel to Vienna and let it take your breath away.
In Vienna, it’s impossible to be overlooked. You can only be ignored. ~Alexander Löwen
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