The Imperial City

Vienna is a wonderful city that often tops the ranking for "quality of life" or "most livable city". Despite having 1.7 million inhabitants (making it the 7th largest city in Europe) many of the main attractions are in the central first district or positioned on the Ringstrasse which surrounds the inner city and therefore many attractions can be reached by foot. In 2001 the entire first district was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Vienna has a rich cultural history. Apart from being regarded as the City of Music because of its musical legacy, Vienna is also said to be "The City of Dreams" because it was home to the world's first psychoanalyst – Sigmund Freud.

The city's roots lie in early Celtic and Roman settlements that transformed into a Medieval and Baroque city, the capital of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. It is well known for having played an essential role as a leading European music centre, from the great age of Viennese Classicism through the early part of the 20th century.

The historic centre of Vienna is rich in architectural jewels, including baroque castles and gardens, and the late-19th-century Ringstrasse lined with grand buildings, monuments and parks.

Schönbrunn Palace, © WienTourismus / Peter Rigaud

 

Stepahnsdom

©WienTourismus / Lois Lammerhuber - Albertina

For some inspirations on what to see and do in Vienna click here.