Vienna Unwrapped Inspiration and Planning For Independent Travellers

NOTE: Austria has started to lift restrictions caused by Covid-19 as one of the first countries in Europe. Since 15th May, museums, attractions, restaurants and cafes are gradually re-opening, with hotels to follow from 29th May, if the rate of infections stays under control until then. From 1st July 2020, events such as cultural and sports performances are expected to take place again. (Follow Vienna Unwrapped on Facebook and Twitter for regular updates.) To kickstart your planning, use my insight and tools to find out what to see and experience in Vienna: In a week, three days, or in one day. Check out the best time to visit Vienna after Covid-19. And how you can safely book hotels, concert and opera tickets.

To get beyond the guidebooks use my up-to-date insight as a native Viennese, grown over decades. Either roam this site to your heart's content or get a no-sweat 1:2:1 solution. For classical sightseeing and hidden gems. For practical advice into local weather, dress codes, safety, tipping in Austria, concert and opera tickets, day trips from Vienna, and much more.

To prepare for your trip, learn about our Viennese UNESCO World Heritage sites, the Habsburg Emperors' Imperial Palace, the Giant Ferris Wheel, the Spanish Riding School, our amazing Baroque architecture and Gustav Klimt art. And get ready to experience things like Viennese cooking classes in locals' homes, boat trips on the Danube to Wachau Valley, a listed World War II Air Defence Tower, and a bunch of local grandmas' cakes far beyond Sachertorte.

In 2020, Beethoven and his 250-year-anniversary will take center stage. If you like Mozart, Strauss and other great classical music, too, you will find a rich program of concerts, piano recitals, operas, galas and operettas to choose from. My tips will help you to stay clear from tourist traps and get your money's worth.

To discover your ideal time for visiting Vienna explore these seasonal highlights. For example, in the summer people gather at various open-air food and music festivals, and take bike tours, Danube boat trips and walks in the vineyards. In the autumn and winter, that is when the most amazing classical music events, Christmas markets and elegant balls take place.

Where to stay in Vienna? Find out what are the best luxury hotels, boutique hotels and cheap hotels in Wien in 2020. Although many are in the city center, do also consider lovely central districts such as the 4th, 5th , 6th, 7th, 8th and 9th. And definitely the 2nd district - trendy Leopoldstadt. Essentially, all of them have great public transport connections to the city center.

Where to shop and what to buy in Vienna? Whether it has to be a porcelain Lipizzaner from Augarten, a quirky Austrian fashion accessory or a simple pack of Mannerschnitten wafers, do head for quality shops in town. What's more, shopping off the mainstream, for example, will lead you into charming neighborhoods you may otherwise have missed!

Which is the best Vienna city pass? Where to get the best metro maps and city maps? How to use your cell phone in Wien? And what are the best self-guided walks? To get around in Vienna on your own make a few preparations using my free planning tools and tips.