Since collapse of the Austro-Hungarian Empire in 1918, one of the largest powers in Europe in the beginning of 20th century, Vienna lost its political significance but none of its imperial grandeur. Vienna’s attractions are on par with London and Paris and most of the attractions are conveniently concentrated within 5 km circle of Vienna’s Innerstadt. You can spend three full days in the Innerstadt without taking any form of public transport or taxi.
Day 1.
Start your walk from St. Stephen’s Cathedral (Stephansdom).
Your next station is the Hofburg Palace. If you had a week, you could spent it easily only in Hofburg Palace.
Imperial Treasury is a must.
The Spanish Riding School might be entertaining if you are into equestrian performances.
Personally I prefer Austrian National Library, it’s absolutely magnificent.
Day 2.
Spend the entire day in the Museum Quarter.
The first stop is Kunsthistorisches Museum, my personal favorite is collection of Pieter Brueghel the Elder.
The Naturhistorisches Museum, which looks like a twin brother of Kunsthistorisches Museum, is on the opposite side of Maria-Theresien-Platz.
Spend the rest of the day in Leopold Museum.
If you can’t endure too much art in the same day, try Imperial Armoury in the Hofburg Palace instead of Leopold Museum. The Imperial Armoury collection is second only to collection of arms in Les Invalides in Paris.
Day 3.
Visit Hundertwasserhaus. What Gaudi did for Barcelona, Hundertwasser did for Vienna.
Well, I guess that I lied – three days do not cut it. What about Albertina Museum, Schönbrunn Palace and Belvedere? Next time.
