Power of the Hapsburgs

After a quick boat ride up the Danube from Bratislava, we arrived in Vienna. Our only stop during the trip in what could be considered Western Europe, we had a great time just scratching the surface of what Vienna has. The biggest distinction was that in Vienna – unlike any city in Eastern Europe we have been – it was clear that the city had been the seat of a great power for a long time. It had huge, beautiful palaces that housed famous royal dynasties, gorgeous streets lined with romantic old buildings, countless museums, and lots of history, including the locations and settings for a number of historical events in the music and opera worlds.

The huge Schönbrunn Palace.

Palace gardens

Part of the Hofsburg Palace

But at the same time it was very livable, with open air markets, fun pedestrian streets, and lively coffee ships. You know it’s a good city when the tour guide includes as highlights of the city the two most famous pastry cafes, with instruction to not miss trying both. Our conclusion: Hotel Sacher over Demel.

Vienna streets

Cakes at Demel

Sampling Hotel Sacher

We also were able to get in a quick classical music performance, which while completely hokey with the musicians performing in outfits (costumes?) from Mozart’s era, did let us hear Mozart’s pieces in one of Vienna’s best venues for music.

Mozart concert

We also made it to the famous (as we were told) red Ferris wheel of Vienna, which is located in an amusement park near the city center, in an area Mozart used to visit to calm his nerves. Although with all the high-altitude and velocity rides of the current park, it’s not so calming anymore.

In front of the Ferris wheel.

Above Vienna

A more modern ride

And a few quirks:

The translation from “Purchase ticket” was a little garbled.

Jami was amused with the tight shorts Austrian runners used…