Vienna, Austria
There are not many things better than to visit one of the great cities of the world in perfect weather conditions. That is how we spent our day in Wien (Vienna).
Exploring the Schönbrunn Palace and its grounds is to take a step or two back in time, back to a time when nobility had massive resources which were used, in part, to build magnificent monuments to themselves. This palace was a favorite of Maria Theresa and of Franz Joseph, the last of the Hapsburgs to rule. The gardens are beautifully laid out and painstakingly tended. From the palace, the gardens lead to Maria Theresa’s imposing Gloriette Monument.
Inside, rooms are cavernous and filled with fine art. Even the walls and ceilings inspire a sense of awe, just as they were designed to do.
A highlight of this full morning was the visit to the Marionette Theater where we were treated to a delightful performance of Mozart’s “Eine Kleine Nachtmusik”. After a brief look backstage, we headed to a demonstration of how to make one of Austria’s most beloved foods, apfelstrudel (apple strudel). Of course, it is impossible to watch this procedure without tasting the final product!
We followed our own interests in the afternoon walking around the city, enjoying the many platz (town squares), sipping coffee at a sidewalk café, taking in a museum or two… there are countless ways to experience Vienna.
An evening at the opera topped off a full and rewarding day.
