As the largest city and the capital of Austria, Vienna was once home to the Holy Roman Empire, the Austrian Empire and the Austro-Hungarian Empire. This imperial history has shaped modern day Vienna to become a traditional yet metropolitan city. The city landscape is made up of Baroque and Art Nouveau buildings and wide spread parklands. Though most of the city centre is listed as a UNESCO world heritage site, Vienna still continues to develop into a modern and dynamic city with a distinct personality.
Vienna cruises disembark at the Reichsbrücke Schiffahrtszentrum (Navigation Center), near the Vorgartenstrasse U-Bahn station. From the station take the U1 underground train to Stephansplatz in the city centre.
Sights to See
After disembarking, take the U-Bahn to the Stephansdom cathedral or Little Stephen as most locals call it. Not only is the cathedral a spectacular example of gothic architecture, but it also has an incredible view of the city. Back to the city, explore the extravagant Hofburg Palace where some of Austria's most powerful have resided, and feast your eyes on the crown jewels and treasure once owned by Holy Roman and Austrian empires at Schatzkammer, the imperial treasury.
What's for Lunch
By pass lunch and go straight to dessert at Hotel Sacher. The hotel is said to be the home of the Sachertorte, Vienna's world famous chocolate cake.
If you see only one thing...
Take a tour of one of the most famous opera houses in the world and stay for a performance at the Vienna State Opera.
Local speak
If you need to ask a local for help simply say Konnen Si emir bitte helfen?
Memento
Pick up some shiny souvenirs at Swarovski Wien, one of Swarovski's biggest stores in the world.