Vienna, Austria's capital, is one of Europe's most historic cities. Sitting on the banks of the Danube, it is bursting with beautiful buildings, parks and fountains. Vienna isn't just a living museum though, it's a vibrant 21st-century metropolis with plenty going on in the fields of contemporary art, food and culture. City breaks in Vienna mean spending time in elegant surroundings, taking a horsedrawn carriage ride along tree-lined avenues and feasting on some famous Vienna cakes.
Vienna uses Central European Time, meaning it is one hour ahead of the UK and Ireland. The currency is the euro, and the official language is German, although most people understand some English. Flights to Vienna usually arrive at the city's airport just southeast of town. Another option for flights to Vienna from Dublin would be flying to Bratislava, around 40km to the east of Vienna, across the border in Slovakia. When flying from Cork to Vienna, a connection will be needed, most often through Dublin or London Gatwick.
Vienna's climate is Alpine, with warm sunshine in the summer months and cold winters with plenty of snow. April and May are great times to visit the city, with temperatures climbing to between 15°C and 20°C, and fewer average days of rainfall than in July or August. December or January bring the snowy, frosty festive season, with temperatures hovering around freezing and snow staying on the ground around 40 days per year.
Whereas there's something for everyone in Vienna, history buffs will particularly enjoy the city for its sumptuous palaces and museums. If you prefer to take things easy, cruises along the Danube offer the chance to sit back and watch the scenery pass by.
If you haven't already tried iconic Viennese wiener schnitzel, apple strudel or Sachertorte, you're in for a treat. Schnitzel – breaded and fried veal cutlet – is a staple of most restaurant menus and often served with a mountain of fries. If you've got a sweet tooth, try the city's most famous treat, Sachertorte. This rich chocolate tart was invented in 1832 at Café Sacher in Philharmonikerstrasse, where you can still enjoy a slice with coffee. For casual food on the go, the Nachsmarkt is hard to beat – it sells fresh produce and delicious street food from around the world.
Most people booking a flight and hotel in Vienna will want to bring something home to remind themselves of their trip. If you can resist the temptation to start eating it before you get on the plane, a beautifully boxed Sachertorte is a lovely gift. As snow globes were invented in Vienna, they also make perfect souvenirs of your time in the city. If you're visiting in December, head to the area around Town Hall, where you'll find a Christmas market offering everything from candles to handcrafted wooden ornaments.