Vienna Opera

One of the most famous opera houses in the world, the Vienna State Opera located at the Ringstraße, provides the absolute finest in first-class productions. This dynamic Vienna opera house puts on a different program each day. This includes over 50 operas and ballet productions tightly packed into 300 days over the course of the season and its repertoire covers the full range of operatic literature. For the 2011/2012 season, the Vienna State Opera will perform five new opera productions including Verdi’s La Traviata and Don Carlo, Mozart’s La clemenza di Tito,   Janáček’s Aus einem Totenhaus, and Weill’s Aufstieg und Fall der Stadt Mahagonny. Vienna tickets to this opera house however, do tend to be in the higher region but many concert halls also offer unforgettable performances at more modest rates.

A wonderful alternative to the State Opera is the Vienna Volksoper. Established since 1898, it offers an impressive range of stage related productions including Vienna opera, concerts, classical musicals, contemporary dance and operettas with an astounding 315 performances over the 2011/2012 season! This season, the Volksoper premiered Johann Strauss’ “Wiener Blut,” Richard Strauss’ opera “Salome,” Stephen Sondheim’s Broadway production “A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum,” a musical by Leonard Bernstein and the highly anticipated operetta, “Madame Pompadour.”

Vienna Concerts

If you are looking for wonderful music in a spectacular hall, try the Mozart House where the famed composer himself lived and played and the orchestra itself continues to relive his classics. Among Vienna concerts, this definitely ranks high and you can enjoy the marvelous acoustics of the Sala Terrena as Mozart himself had in what has eventually become the oldest concert hall in Vienna. The beautifully restored hall however, still holds unsurpassable beauty with paintings of a variety of natures, from the floral to the sensual and even the grotesque. The Mozart Ensemble – Wien offer a taste of the Viennese classical period and their repertoire includes the compositions of Schubert, Haydn, and of course, Mozart himself. Vienna tickets for this experience are fairly moderate starting at about 39 euro.

If you’re looking to add some dancing to your evening, visit the Vienna Residence Orchestra at the Auersperg Palace (yes, it really is a palace). The evening’s program will include waltzes, polkas, ballet and singing to the compositions of Mozart and Strauss. Tickets start at a very affordable 39 euro.

For a more luxurious experience, try a Concert and Dinner package offered by the Kursalon Wien. Enjoy the compositions of Mozart and Strauss in the Lanner Hall and fit in a 4 course gourmet dinner that features the likes of Carpaccio and roast filet! Vienna tickets to the Kursalon begin at 74 euro.

Whatever you’re musical taste or cultural experience that you choose to indulge in during your stay, it really would be something to miss out on if you don’t try the Vienna concerts or the famed Vienna opera while you’re there!

Recently remodeled in 2006, Hotel Stephanie Wien offers a luxury stay at a more affordable rate with some search engines offering up a room for less than a US $100 per night. This institution maintains its long established custom in the city, providing a sample of time honored Viennese Hospitality and exquisite local cuisine.

Hotel Stefanie’s 120 elegant rooms feature ornate Viennese furniture, delicately designed curtains and an atmosphere which adheres to a warmer color palate. The latest modern conveniences are carefully designed to integrate well with its posh, old world surroundings including free Wi-Fi, private bathrooms, adjustable air conditioning, and satellite TV. Some rooms offer delightful views of the hotel’s courtyard garden and guests have the opportunity to partake in the outstanding breakfast buffet that the Hotel Stefanie provides.

The hotel features its own Restaurant Kronprinz Rudolph which serves up Austrian and international cuisine in stately surroundings. With the ability to accommodate up to 200 people, the restaurant is a wonderful meeting point for large groups to enjoy each other’s company over a meal or even to hire to celebrate private parties. The hotel also offers a garden restaurant, café bar Stefanie, and a parking garage.

From its lavish reception area to the three conference rooms and the exceptional large ballroom, Hotel Stephanie Wien provides an astounding experience in noble Viennese customs to its guests and is a popular choice for seminars and conferences.

A popular choice for visitors, guests who have stayed at the hotel take to the internet to voice their opinion of Hotel Stefanie. “I was coming to Vienna on a business trip and looking for something in a moderate price range to save on expenses without giving up too much comfort,” said one reviewer. “Hotel Stefanie was a perfect fit – central location but absolutely quiet, very well run, extremely friendly and helpful staff, free Wifi and an almost overwhelming breakfast buffet”.

A mature couple on holiday from Latvia had this to say about their experience, “Very nice hotel! The location is perfect – within a few minutes walk to the city center. Eye-catching interior. Helpful staff. Comfortable room is spacious and clean. Very varied and delicious breakfast. If we return to Vienna, definitely choose this hotel!”

“The Hotel is 10 minutes from the central city, but only 5 from the metro and trains,” said a single traveler at the Hotel Stephanie Wien “The facility is well cared for and aesthetic. Service was given willingly. For what I paid, it was an extremely good value.”

History, Music, and Dancing

Vienna has a rich history in music, theatre, architecture, and even dancing (see Vienna balls), and these are reflected in the number of attractions around the city. Our earlier article on Vienna attractions highlighted some of the most popular and visited sights and sounds of the city, but the “City of Dreams,” established since as early as 500 BC could hardly be summed up into one article. When you’re done touring the city’s historic centre, and roaming through the breathtaking Schonbrunn and Belvedere palaces, try taking a bit of detour onto the less beaten path and discover the lesser known treasures hidden in the city.

Meet some famous ghosts and ghouls

While some may consider it a bit morbid, visiting the Central Cemetery (Zentralfriedhof) is a fascinating experience. As Europe’s second largest cemetery, this plot of land marks the final resting places for over 2.5 million people including Beethoven, Strauss, Schubert and Brahms.  If you enjoyed visiting the Central Cemetery, the Kapuzinerkirche is a great for Vienna sightseeing. Although not as impressive as the St. Stephen’s Cathedral or Karlskirche, this church houses the Kaisergruft (Imperial Crypt) which is the final resting place of the important members of the Habsburg Royal Family.  Elaborate tombs and crypts on display contain almost 150 aristocrats including 12 Emperors, 18 Empresses and the parents of Marie Antoinette.

Gardens

If you’re in the mood for something a bit livelier (pun intended), take a walk in the Botanischer Garten (Botanical Garden of the University of Vienna). Located near Belvedere, the gardens are one of the little publicized free Vienna attractions that welcome visitors to sit and enjoy the natural surroundings. For a more cultural experience, take some time to visit the Hofmobiliendepot (Imperial Furniture Collection) museum. Full of fascinating and beautiful old pieces, the museum is not as frequented by visitors thus allowing for a better view of the furniture. A sizeable collection of furniture, the museum offers fun time looking at some of the personal knick knacks of yesteryear’s royalty.

Votiv-Kino

And while we’re keeping with theme of travelling on the less beaten path, it might be a good time to check to out Votiv-Kino—a cinema dedicated to alternative movies ranging from Hollywood’s stranger pieces to the art house films played in their original languages. Built in 1912, it’s not an attraction that would be on any of the typical Vienna tours but the cinema is one of Vienna’s oldest and is considered one of the best in the city.

Keeping it simple

Feeling a bit famished after a long day of Vienna tours? Indulge in a coffee or one of the yummy night cakes served at the Café Landtmann. Open since 1873, feel the spirits of Sigmund Freud, Gustav Mahler, and Marlene Dietrich who found this café to be a favored spot. Well known figures like Hillary Rodham Clinton and Sir Paul Mc Cartney also like to frequent the spot whenever they’re in town.

When to visit

Visiting Vienna can be done at any time of the year. Summers in Vienna are very warm and hold the appeal of couples being able to walk down the streets holding hands without gloves. With highs at about 22 to 26˚C (72 to 79˚F) and low temperatures around 15˚C (59˚F) sandals and shorts are appropriate for touring the city. Attractions like the Tiergarten Schonbrunner, the world’s oldest zoo, are particularly lovely during the warmer months because the animals are out and about in the summer sun unhindered by the weather.

Are there times when things are just too busy?

Truthfully, however, the city becomes mobbed by tourists during the June to August months with students out of school and many taking their vacation time during this period. While this time is best for enjoying the Vienna Austria weather and the outdoor summer events, popular attractions like the Spanish Riding School, Vienna Boys’ Choir and some theatre houses go on hiatus in July and August.

So when is the BEST time to visit Vienna?

If you would still like to enjoy a beautiful and warm Vienna weather forecast, travelling to the romantic city in May, June or September may be the best time to go. These are outside the highest points of the tourist influx and many of the attractions outdoors or a candle light dinner on a restaurant terrace can still be enjoyed, so you can have an enjoy all the benefits of the warm weather without the hassle of the crowds.  The hotels are cheaper at this time of year too.

Winter

Winters are relatively cold in the Austrian capital with average temperatures dipping to about freezing point with snowfall visiting the city between December through March. If you’re travelling during the colder months but wish to avoid the wintery aspects of Vienna, then you’re in luck, as the city holds many of its cultural attractions indoors. Christmas with Vienna Austria weather, is particularly festive and for over two decades, one of the season’s most celebrated attractions is the Magic of Advent—an imaginative theme world constructed in and around Vienna’s intricate and imposing City Hall. Christmas markets are also in full swing in the December months and visitors should stop in at the Spittelberg market in the revitalized Biedermeier quarter to taste the delectable cuisine on offer alongside a hot punch. Walk among stalls which display endless rows of handicraft and ceramics as well as an attractive selection of silver, enamel and brass jewelry.

Spring and Autumn

The Vienna weather forecast offers up cool to mild spring and autumn months. While April is historically considered an unpredictable month in terms of weather, Austrians celebrate St. George’s Day on the 23^rd April. However, the month does signal that transition from the winter to the more tourist friendly summer and outdoor festivals such as concerts in the neo-Gothic Schloss Grafenegg and its new concert hall can be enjoyed. The Vienna Austria weather during this period also allows for the re-opening of palaces and parks that went into hibernation during the cold winter months.

Taking a family vacation to Vienna or a romantic weekend getaway is made convenient by the many budget airlines that serve Vienna International Airport. While it is possible to travel to Vienna via train, bus, or your personal vehicle (within the continent), it is common knowledge that travelling for cheap in Europe is widely available, and cheap flights to Vienna can be accessed from almost any European country.

Many airlines fly direct

Depending on the season, Easy Jet offers flights from as low as 30 euro (U.S. $38) one way from London Gatwick Airport to Vienna International. However, Lufthansa, KLM Royal Dutch, and German Wings are just a few of the alternatives that serve the same route. If you’re flying from Barcelona, Swiss Airlines can get you to your destination for as little as 78 euro (US $101). And if you’re on a tour of Europe’s most romantic cities, hopping from sweet accordion music and charmingly lit Parisian Eiffel Tower to the old world cobbled stone of Vienna can be done for as little as 60 euro (US $79).

However, finding a flight outside of the European continent can also be done so for sometimes extreme bargains that rival even the costs posted for travelling within the continent. Flying from the frenzied atmosphere of bustling New York City to the arguably romance capital of Europe could cost you as little as 283 euro (US $365). If you’re travelling from fun in the sun Cancun, Mexico cheap flights from Vienna can cost as little as 508 euro (U.S. $657) with Condor. Travelling from the East is equally affordable for a two way flight from Shanghai, China can take you to Vienna and back for as little as 568 euro (US $734) with Aeroflot and provide same service from Tokyo for the affordable price of 833 euro (US $1,077).

How to find cheap flights to Vienna

These airlines are just a small sample of the large number of options for Vienna flights that are readily available through search engines like Kayak, Expedia, or Travelocity. For the airlines that identify themselves as budget carriers, it may also be worthwhile to occasionally check their websites for deals and discounts that are available for a limited time. Of course, the prices of Vienna flights from any destination rely heavily upon season, demand, availability, and even the day of the week among other factors, so if you’re planning a visit into Vienna for business or pleasure you would be well advised to keep an eye out for the discounts.

What to do and where to stay in Vienna

Once you’ve arrived in Vienna you’ll need to know what you can do.  Check out things to do in vienna for a run down on all the different options available.  We also have details on places you can stay including the cheap hotels in Vienna.

While this article has focused on finding cheap flights to Vienna, passengers looking for a more luxurious journey are also well catered to so just find your flight, pick your seat, and sit back and enjoy the ride!

Vienna International Airport is located a comfortable 16 km away from the city centre. Built in 1908, the airport has a long and colorful history to match the beautiful city that it serves. Originally a military airport, Vienna International Airport has since received high profile guests such as Olympic teams and Pope John Paul II over the course of its lifetime.

Who flies to Vienna Airport?

Today, Vienna International Airport receives fights from a variety of airlines across Europe and internationally. Austrian Airlines, British Airways, Lufthansa, Emirates, Air Canada and China Airlines are just a few of the very long list of airlines to serve airport Vienna.

Duty free galore

The airport itself offers a wide selection of shops and restaurants. The duty free shops share space with the likes of generally more luxurious brands like Caviar House, Burberry, and Swarovski. There are two locations of the Mostly Mozart celebrating one of the city’s most famous sons and there is even an airport hairdresser open to the general public, so that you can get refreshed after a long flight. The restaurants, cafes and bars are more affordable and family friendly ranging from a Dubliner Pub to the well known McDonald’s.

How to get into Vienna from the airport

Transferring from Vienna International Airport to the city centre is very convenient and there is a variety of options to suit any budget. Before you leave the airport it might be worthwhile to pick up a Vienna Card. It provides over 210 discounts and unlimited free travel in the underground, bus and tram for 72 hours. The Vienna card also allows you discounts on some of the transportation from the airport to the city centre.

If you choose to travel by train, the airport offers the City Airport Train into Wien Mitte/Landstaβe which will get you into the city in 16 minutes. There is also the Express Train which makes a variety of stops around Vienna. Both trains leave every 30 minutes and are subject to discounts with the Vienna card.

Vienna International Airport also provides airport buses which travel into the city centre, the Westbahnhof and the Kaiserműhlen Vienna International Centre. There is also a range of taxis and limousines available as well as car rental services for those who choose to do their own driving during their stay. Five car parks serve the airport and offering short term parking to longer options and rates begin at about 3.50 euro.

Bratislava Airport is always an alternative

Vienna is also accessible via Bratislava Airport which is located 65 km from the city centre. Bratislava Airport offers train and bus connections which will take you into the city in as little as 1 hour and 15 minutes.

But before you start getting lost among the cobbled stone streets, you may want to figure out where you’re going to be spending the night.

 Accommodation Vienna

Accommodations range from Vienna luxury hotels to cheap hotels in Vienna. Not to mention, for the students and budget traveler, the city also offers a number of hostels. There are many hotels in Vienna Austria but finding a place to stay depends on a variety of things, for example, how close you want to be to the large attractions, what price range you are looking for, what kind of atmosphere you prefer and so on.

Vienna Luxury Hotels

If you would like to stay in the Vienna city centre, there is no hotel that can compare with the Hotel Imperial. Among the top tier in Vienna luxury hotels, the 5 Star Hotel Imperial’s old world traditions mingle with modern amenities. This luxurious accommodation has been listed on Conde Nast Traveler’s 2002 Gold List but its origins began in 1873. Originally, the Wuttemberg Palace, the hotel is an architectural landmark and is built in the city’s own Ringtrasse architectural style.

Another excellent choice among Vienna luxury hotels is the Grand Hotel Wien. As majestic as its name suggests, it has been the gathering point of Viennese social life since the turn of the century. Located just a hop, skip and jump from the Vienna State Opera and St. Stephen’s Cathedral, this hotel in Vienna fits neatly into its beautiful surroundings.

Moderately Priced Hotels in Vienna Austria

For those of us who don’t have a few hundred euros to drop on a night at a lavish spot, there are more modest options available in equally good locations. A great choice for a Vienna accommodation would be the ideally situated Mercure Josefshof Wien which is just a stone’s throw from a variety of attractions including Parliament, The Rathausplatz and Museumquartier.

A fantastic Vienna accommodation with some personality would be the Levante Parliament which is a member of design hotels TM. Built in 1911, the building’s design was meant to be an interpretation of the four elements thus fusing art and contemporary design.

Cheap Hotels in Vienna

For those of us on a budget, there are a number of cheap hotels in Vienna. The modest Hotel Pension Arpi provides you with a cheap, no-frills stay in a location well suited to sightseeing. Recently refurbished, the simple rooms are clean and adequate for a comfortable stay.

Cheap hotels Vienna also includes the 3 Star Hotel Ekazent. Though located a little away from Vienna city centre, this lovely place offers a wide range of amenities and a stunning view of the Wienerwald Vieannas forest from its breakfast room. Not too shabby for any hotel in Vienna!

Trying to figure out things to do in Vienna will result in a very, very long answer. Attractions range from the very touristy to the more cultured options, but just to get you oriented, here is a nice selection of what to do in the Austrian capital – one of the most magical cities in the world.

• Schonbrunn Palace is a top place to see in Vienna
• Spanish Riding School
• Spend the day on a river cruise – Vienna looks so different from the water
• There are so many art museums in Vienna.

What to see in Vienna

After you’ve covered the essential city centre, which has been deemed a UNESCO world heritage site in 2001 be sure to explore the more quietly captivating nuances of Vienna. A great way to start your day is to visit a few of the art museums in Vienna. There are over 100 art museums in Vienna but some of the most visited include the Albertina located in the Innere Stadt. Within the Albertina art museum resides one of the largest and most important print rooms in the world, including about one million old master prints. For the more modern art museums in Vienna, try the Museumsquartier, where the Leopold Museum features one of the largest collections of modern Austrian art.

For something a bit more unique, visit the Spanish Riding School. Founded in 1572, the Spanish Riding School in Vienna is the oldest and is the last riding school in the world to practice classic dressage. The Spanish Riding School has offered presentations of its classic dressage to the public since 1920. There are some amazing 360 degree photos of the Spanish Riding School here.

What to do in Vienna

Regarded as the world capital of music from the late 19^th to mid 20^th century, it has been home to the likes of Mozart, Beethoven and Brahms among many others. Experience a real Vienna concert at the Wiener Musikverein, home to the Philharmonic Orchestra, or at the Wiener Konzerthaus. Many Vienna concerts offer tourist oriented musical highlights from the city’s history.  This website has some good information on concerts.

Take in some more theatrical performances at a Vienna opera house particularly at the Vienna State Opera from which members of the Philharmonic are recruited from its orchestra. Regarded as the most important Vienna opera house, the opera house was built in the Neo-Renaissance style and has a colourful history. Damaged in World War II, the State Opera house has since been restored and this Vienna opera house is now one of the most prolific in the world, producing 50 to 60 operas across roughly 200 performances.

Events Wien

Get used to saying it, Wien. As your cultural immersion experience sinks you in a bit deeper say goodbye to the English “Vienna” and hallo to the German “Wien.” There are many interesting things to do in Vienna, ahem, sorry, Wien, but perhaps one of the most impressive activities is to take part in a 19^th century Viennese ball.

Among events Wien, the ball is certainly the most elaborate. With over 200 significant balls per year, and some with up to nine live orchestras, the balls are held in majestic locations such as the Hofburg Palace. If you had truly enjoyed the State Opera house, then you would be glad to know that it is also the host to the most well known Austrian ball, the Opera Ball. It’s a night of charming and dancing, true to the fairy tale nature of the Austrian capital.

Schonbrunn Palace

As captivating as this romantic metropolis is, her surroundings are also just as beautiful. On the outskirts of the urban centre, the Schonbrunn Palace is one of the highlights that visitors come to see. One of the most important cultural monuments in the country, the Rococo former summer residence holds an imperial 1,441 rooms. The Schonbrunn Palace grounds are just as impressive, particularly the Tiergarten which is the oldest zoo in the world.  See here for the opening hours.

If you get the opportunity, take a river cruise in Vienna along the Danube. It offers spectacular views unique from any other perspective that you will get on land. Many companies that offer a river cruise make it part of a larger package that tours several cities along the Danube including destinations like Prague and Budapest.