Vienna has been a site of continuous habitation for more than 2,500 years, with changing architectural standards and styles creating a unique and eclectic atmosphere. The city proudly boasts some of the world’s foremost examples of Baroque, Rococo, Romanesque, Classicist and Modern architecture – creating one of Europe’s most beautiful and captivating capitals.
Ahead of your Danube river cruise, discover Vienna’s must-sees and mainstays in our in-depth guide to the city.
Hailing from Vienna, the Wiener schnitzel is a large, breaded piece of meat, traditionally served with a side of roast potatoes, lemon and occasionally, sauerkraut. While schnitzel is enjoyed across Austria, Germany and elsewhere, the Viennese version is different in that it’s made exclusively from veal, opposed to the customary pork. This makes the dish richer and more flavour intense, and it’s delicious enjoyed with a refreshing glass of Austrian Sekt.
Where to try it: Skopik & Lohn – Leopoldsgasse 17, 1020 Wien, Austria
Symbolic of Vienna’s thriving café culture, the sachertorte is a dense, rich chocolate sponge cake, elevated by delicate layers of apricot jam and topped with a firm chocolate icing. The sweet was created at the Sacher Hotel, one of the most luxurious hotels of Imperial Vienna, but it is now served in many of the city’s famed coffeeshops. Make sure you leave room for a slither.#
Where to try it: Café Central – Herrengasse 14, 1010 Wien, Austria
Did you know that Vienna is one of the few cities in the world where Old World grape vines continue to grow within the city limits? The Austrian capital is home to some 700 hectares of vineyards, and the city’s winemaking heritage dates back to Roman times. The city is best known for its white wines, with the signature Wiener Gemischter Satz being one of the best-loved vintages produced in the city. There’s nowhere better to enjoy a glass of local Viennese wine than at one of the city’s heuriger – a historic wine tavern.
Where to try it: Heuriger Sirbu – Kahlenberger Str. 210, 1190 Wien, Austria