Europe Travel Guide bliss list

Vienna

1. Stift Klosterneuburg: Located just outside the city center is Austria’s oldest winery and one of the countries most beautiful abbeys. With its foundation stone laid in the 12^th century, the abbey and the vineyards have been an important part of Viennese life for centuries and well worth a visit. There’s a wonderful museum, a grand wine cellar, wine tasting, orchard, café.

2. Hotel Sacher Wien: Opened in 1876, the ultimate hotel is the ultimate in traditional Viennese style. A visit here is to step back in time and experience the elegance of a bygone era that’s attracted the likes of  John F. Kennedy, Anna Netrebko, Queen Elizabeth II and Sharon Stone. In addition to impeccably designed rooms and suites, the public areas offer visitors the opportunity to dine and drink in style. Check out the Blaue Bar for cocktails and of course, you can’t miss the Café Sacher Wien, home to the famous Sacher Torte cake.

3. Café Central: Let’s get one thing out of the way. It’s crowded. But for a good reason.  It’s the most famous café in the city with the best apfelstrudel anywhere. The café also features a full menu of tasty dishes and other delicious deserts and patisseries beyond apple strudel. To avoid the biggest crowds, visit in the morning for coffee and cake or later in the evening – and make a reservation.

4. Sisi Museum: Located inside the Hofburg is a very special museum dedicated to the life of Empress Elisabeth. Unconventional, elegant, beautiful and independent, the Empress was a point of fascination for her contemporaries (she was so obsessed with her health that each of her castles had a gym built in!). And, after her assassination in 1898, she became a legend. The museum is very unique, set in a time and space from her own life and containing over 300 of her personal belongings.

5. Spanish Riding School. There are many places to see the famous Lipizzaner horses, but The Spanish Riding School is by far the most impressive. For over 450 the school has been in the forefront of classical equitation and a demonstration of their skill and talent is something you’ll never forget. If you’re up for something a little different, book tickets to “A Tribute to Vienna” that combines Viennese riders, music, and songs. 

6. Kutschkemarkt: Located in the 18^th district and one of the only two street markets in Vienna, this market is a great place to add to your itinerary. Featuring exclusive local delicacies, organic products, cafes and coffeehouses. There are bigger and busier markets around town, but the charm of the Kutschkermarkt makes it a great choice to see Vienna like a local.

7. Shakespeare & Company Bookstore: Located in the oldest part of the city, this English language bookstore, inspired by the famous shop in Paris, this charming shop is a wonderful place for booklovers in a great neighborhood.

8. Palace of Justice: Most people never step inside the Justizpalast and they’re missing out on of the most impressive interiors in the city. After entering the building and clear a quick security check, you’ll find yourself in one of the most beautiful neo-renaissance buildings in the country. It’s still home to the Supreme Court of Austria and make sure to look up at the stunning glass ceiling. While there, check out the Justizcafe, a rooftop cafeteria style restaurant with amazing views of the city – and very few tourists!

9. Concert at Capuchin Church: Vienna is a city of music, so it’s hard to pin down just one for The Bliss List, but we’ve done it. Held at the Capuchin Church on Friday and Saturday evenings, these classical music concerts are intimate, set in a beautiful 16^th century church. The church is also the burial place of the Habsburg Emperors and the crypt is visit worthy on its own.

10. Lamee Rooftop: With one of the most beautiful cities in the world before you, you’ll want to kick back and enjoy the view. One of the best places to see the city and enjy a cocktail is Lamee Rooftop. You’re so close to St. Stephen’s Cathedral, you’ll think you can touch it!