Why Vienna in winter is a very good idea
Who thought that Austria was only meant for winter sports (and preferably in a of these piste-proof outfits), is mistaken. Last week, I got into the car heading towards the capital of Austria: Vienna, Wien, or Wenen to do anything but ski. What did I do there? Buying gifts, soaking up Christmas, looking a bit too deeply into the glühwein glass while enjoying a piece of sachertorte, visiting the palace of Empress Sissi, a ride on the Ferris wheel, and (window) shopping in the Goldenes Quartier. Vienna is the best idea of this winter. And if you still doubt that, I’m going to change that in 3,2,1….
The best sleep is at The Guesthouse Vienna
An over-the-top marble bathroom with a dream of a shower, the Christmas decorations, the cozy outdoor terrace, the friendliest hotel staff, the view over the city, the perfect location, and a really delicious breakfast make The Guesthouse Vienna a must-recommend hotel when in Vienna.
You can still celebrate Christmas for a while
For over 700 (!) years, Vienna has been known for its Christmas markets, or better said: Christkindlmarkten, because the Austrians don’t get a Santa Claus, but a Christkind visiting. From Schloss Schönbrunn, which is mainly known for its location, namely for the Schloß Schönbrunn (you know: the famous palace of Empress Sissi) and the Wiener Christkindlmarkt at the town hall to the Wintermarkt am Riesenradplatz including Ferris wheel and the Weihnachtsmarkt Belvedere in a beautifully decorated garden between the Upper and Lower Belvedere.
The pride of Vienna: sachertorte
With seriously a huge line all day around the Hotel Sacher, a piece of sachertorte (chocolate cake filled with apricot jam and covered with a thick layer of chocolate glaze since 1832) including a generous dollop of cream is a must-try in combination with a visit to Vienna.
You’ll never run out of shopping here, made possible by…
The Mariahilferstrasse or, as the locals call it, the Mahü, where you want to buy out all the big fashion brands and boutiques. In the mood for a chic (window) shopping spree? Then the Goldenes Quartier and the Kohlmarkt are where you need to be. From Louis Vuitton and Prada to Chanel and Saint Laurent: here you’ll find all your designer dreams in one street. Oh, and if you still have time (and money) left after the above spots, then the department stores Steffl including SKY Bar with an amazing view over the city and Gerngross are definitely worth a visit too.
You have the best (and most fun) lunch at:
Ulrich and Palmenhaus. Just check both Instagram accounts and let yourself be tempted by the tastiest avocado situations, fluffy pancakes, lots of fruit, healthy juices, coffee, eggs, pizzas, beautiful bowls, and a very Instagrammable atmosphere.
You sip cocktails at Krypt.
And that’s quite a funny story. During a renovation, an architectural firm discovered a secret cellar. And guess what? The underground space turned out to be a ’speakeasy’ bar from the 1950s or 60s, after which it was quickly decided to turn it into a (very stylish) cocktail bar with the biggest eye-catcher being the eight-meter-long marble bar. A case of ’you want to sit there as soon as possible’.
Or maybe… Mmm: Mochi
And I know, I know, there’s nothing wintery or wonderful about it, but as a sushi monster, I want to share this with you. The best sushi and sashimi can be found at a local favorite: Mochi.
And you dine on board at Motto am Fluss
For a lovely evening, you join at Motto am Fluss, a restaurant on a boat on the Danube Canal that is surrounded by lots of cozy lights in winter. They not only have a top-notch wine and cocktail menu, but also the best Wiener schnitzel in a culinary jacket.
