Vienna

Holidays in Vienna, Austria Vienna is the mother lode of all things cultural. The grandiose city was the showpiece of the all-conquering Habsburg dynasty, which controlled much of Europe for over 600 years. Despite the ravages of time, its cultural gems endure: monumental edifices line the city centre, world-class museums with historical and artistic treasures, and internationally established orchestras perform in lavish concert halls. Back   Visa and Foreign Office Information Health Information

Entertainment The most obvious and best known is the world famous Vienna Opera House, the city also boasts several renowned theatres not forgetting the Vienna Music Hall and a multitude of art galleries and museums. The nightlife is generally low key but the many bars and cafes do stay open until the early hours.  Spanish Riding School A Viennese institution with a difference, the prancing Lipizzaner stallions strut their stuff in the opulent surrounds of the Hofburgs Winter Riding School, complete with multi-tiered chandeliers and viewing balconies. The breed was first imported from Spain by Maximilian II in 1562, and in 1580 a stud was established at Lipizza, now in Slovenia. The stallions perform an equine ballet to a program of classical music, part of a long-established Viennese institution thats truly reminiscent of the old Habsburg era.  Food & Drink All types of cuisine are catered for and eating out is not generally expensive with the lunchtime menus being particularly good value. The cafes are famous for their extensive and varied selection of different types of coffee and cakes.  Public Transport Although Vienna has trams, buses and underground trains to cover the city and its suburbs, the centre is compact enough to walk round.  Excursions Full day to Budapest, Wachau and the Danube Valley and Puszta and Lake Neusied are popular choices. Half day visits to the Vienna Woods with Operatta, Vienna and its musicians and City Tours.