A Weekend in Vienna Timeless Charm and Gastronomic Gems

It’s difficult to put your finger on what’s special about Vienna, but it’s easy to feel the city’s magic. You can feel it in the grandeur of Schonbrunn Palace, the ambience of the city’s classical music concerts, the celebrated legacy of Empress Sisi and the intricate architecture of Wagner.

In the century since the Austrian royal family walked these streets, Vienna has developed a certifiably hip status. This is largely thanks to the nightclubs that have taken over the old metro stations, creating a literal underworld of youth culture. Fun fact: the Gurtel (a prominent ring road on the outskirts of the city) now moonlights as a major nightlife hub.

Of course, Vienna also houses classical charms and traditional gems, many of which can be found in the MuseumsQuartier (or MQ, if you’re short on time). Here, there are around 50 cultural attractions, featuring everything from restaurants and shops to museums and art galleries. In fact, the MQ holds the coveted title of Europe’s largest art centre – quite the honour given the well-heeled competition.

Your hotel: 
Located in Neubau (the 7th District), near the iconic Mariahilferstrasse shopping street, your hotel sits between the MuseumsQuartier and Westbahnhof railway station. Boasting such a central location – not to mention excellent access to public transport – this is the ideal push-off point for your adventures in and around the city. And at the end of a busy day, it serves as an equally welcoming place to retreat for a well-earned cocktail.

Your itinerary: 
After a speedy flight from the UK to Vienna and a cushy private transfer to your hotel, you’ll be ready to hit the streets and start exploring. And with only four days at your disposal, there’s no time to waste. So, to add some structure to your cavorting around the capital, we’ve set up three focal points.  

The first is a private tour of ‘Red Vienna’ (the nickname given to the capital in the early 20th century). After the Second World War, the city implemented a host of social initiatives, including free access to healthcare, promotion of culture and the construction of tens of thousands of social housing units. Designed by the students of Wagner, these units are a mix of Art Deco and Bauhaus styles – the most famous unit being Karl Marx-Hof. Cameras at the ready...

Of course, you’ll also need fuel for your Viennese wanderings. So, for your second activity, head to one of the capital’s culinary showstoppers for a mouth-watering meal prepared by a (two) Michelin-starred chef. Safe to say: you’ll be in good hands. Savour an array of flavours while nursing a sumptuous string of wine pairings. It doesn’t come much better than this.

To round out your romp in Vienna, step out after dark for a nighttime stroll accompanied by another friendly local guide. Brimming with curiosity, venture out of the city centre to delve down a series of alleys in search of the secret spots frequented by those in the know. In our humble opinion, this will also be the perfect setting for a toast to a trip well spent. Prost (cheers)!