Vienna

Austria’s cosmopolitan center of empire, culture, and history

Austria developed around Vienna into a mighty empire, but the Viennese character that formed during the long history of the country is a rich amalgam of the blending of cultures that have made the city what it still is today: a cosmopolitan center where people devote themselves to enjoyment of the good life. It is also one of Europe’s most visually striking capitals.

The Habsburgs, Austria’s rulers for 6 centuries, left a rich architectural legacy of magnificent baroque and rococo buildings and palaces, beautifully landscaped gardens, and fabulous art collections from the far corners of their empire. Music, art, literature, theater, architecture, education, food, and drink (perhaps wine from the same slopes where the Romans had vineyards in the 1st century AD)—all contribute to the warm congenial atmosphere, the Gemütlichkeit, of Vienna.

For the rail traveler exploring Austria, Vienna should, and likely will, be your introduction to the country. Most flights into Austria from North America land here, and the city is the center hub for the Austrian rail system. In addition, it’s a springboard for travel to or from Budapest, Prague, and other Eastern European destinations.

© 2009, Wiley Publishing, Inc.