Solo-exploring Vienna, Austria's capital city, in November, uncovering hidden gems, trying culinary delights and witnessing the city's remarkable contrasts between modernity and tradition.
I spent three days in this enchanting city, people-watching from aesthetic cafes, attending a live performance, discovering the famous Christmas market, wandering around impressive palaces and admiring other stunning elements.
Three days is enough time to appreciate everything the city has to offer, making it an ideal city-break in Europe. The festivities begin in November with the countdown to Christmas, enhancing the city's already picturesque charm and creating a cosy and mystical ambiance that captures the essence of the season.
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Rathausplatz Christmas Market
Rathausplatz transforms into a festive wonderland with dazzling lights, charming stalls, and the imposing backdrop of Rathaus, the town hall. Make your way around the arts and crafts stalls and choose from the wide selection of festive and traditional Viennese delicacies, while savouring the delightful scents of mulled wine in the air. To really get the most out of the experience, make sure to wear lots of layers and drink warming beverages.
Belvedere Palace
A palace built in the 18th century, a symbol of Baroque architecture, which is set amidst beautiful gardens. Not only is it visually pleasing from the outside, but it's also home to a collection of Austrian art, making it a cultural gem.
Cafe Culture
The city is known for its aesthetic cafes, which lure customers in with their aromas of coffee and pastries. Whilst you sip your coffee, you can observe the tourists and locals as they walk by. Coffee and Friends is located near to Belvedere Palace, and it's the perfect place to people-watch, while the modern trams and traditional horse carriages pass you by.
Mozarthaus Concert
Attending a classical concert at Mozarthaus, a place where Mozart once wrote 'Le Nozze Di Figaro', is a mesmerising experience. Ticket prices range from £28-60, depending on where you'd like to be seated and whether you're an adult, senior, or student. The experience is intimate and unforgettable, as you witness the enchanting melodies of Mozart, just floors below where he used to live. But not only this, you are also taken through the city's rich and intricate musical history by one of the lead musicians.
Schönbrunn Palace & Gardens
The palace is another baroque masterpiece, which was once the residence of the Habsburg monarchs, and is classified as a World Cultural Heritage Site. The surrounding gardens add an exquisite touch with the fountains and the manicured greenery, making it a serene escape within the city. If you're looking to indulge in a cultural and gastronomical experience, then you must attend the amusing, yet informative, Viennese Strudel Show in the court bakery of the Café Residenz.
Stephansplatz square
A bustling and iconic place at the heart of the city, which seamlessly blends the old and the new. It is named after Stephansdom, the gothic and iconic church. Surrounding the square, you can find a blend of architectural styles, where the intricate details of the buildings reflect the city's rich history and cultural heritage. Local people and tourists constantly flow in and out of the area, exploring the shops, cafes, boutiques and eateries that exist within its perimeters. Whether you're sipping a coffee in a cafe in the morning, or eating in one of the many restaurants in the streets in the evening, Stephansplatz square is always alive with activity.
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