Vienna, Austria’s elegant capital, is known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture. With just one day in the city, we embarked on a whirlwind adventure to visit famous landmarks like the Naschmarkt, Schönbrunn Palace, and St. Stephen’s Cathedral, before boarding an overnight train to Venice. Here’s how our day unfolded.
Morning: Capsule Hostel and Breakfast at The Breakfast Club
Unique Stay in a Capsule Hostel
We started our day after a restful night in a capsule hostel located near Vienna’s city center. Surprisingly spacious, our double capsule came with amenities like a TV, safe, and ventilation system. It provided privacy while still being budget-friendly and conveniently located close to the metro.
Retro Breakfast at The Breakfast Club
For breakfast, we headed to The Breakfast Club, a cozy cafe with a retro vibe. Over cappuccinos, French toast with bacon, and a hearty omelet with a bread basket, we fueled up for the day ahead. The meal cost €26 (around $40 CAD), offering a delicious start to our adventure.
Exploring the Naschmarkt and St. Charles Church
Naschmarkt: Vienna’s Iconic Open-Air Market
Just a short walk from breakfast, we explored the Naschmarkt, Vienna’s oldest open-air market dating back to the 16th century. With two main alleyways dedicated to restaurants and food stalls, it offered a sensory overload of smells, sights, and vibrant colors.
St. Charles Church (Karlskirche)
Next, we visited St. Charles Church, a Baroque masterpiece with its distinctive dome and ancient Roman-inspired columns. Built in the early 18th century, it’s one of Vienna’s most striking landmarks.
Midday: Schönbrunn Palace
Imperial Grandeur at Schönbrunn
Taking the metro, we arrived at Schönbrunn Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that once served as the summer residence of the Habsburg monarchs. While we opted not to tour the interior or gardens due to time constraints, walking the palace grounds provided breathtaking views of this 1,400-room marvel.
Convenient Metro System
Vienna’s efficient metro system made it easy to travel between attractions. We purchased 24-hour passes for €8 per person, allowing unlimited rides and saving time compared to single tickets.
Afternoon: Hofburg Palace and St. Stephen’s Cathedral
Hofburg Palace
Back in the city center, we visited the Hofburg Palace, the former winter residence of the Habsburgs. This sprawling complex now houses museums and the Spanish Riding School, home to the famous Lipizzaner horses.
Climbing St. Stephen’s Cathedral
At St. Stephen’s Cathedral, a Gothic masterpiece, we admired its intricate design and colorful tiled roof. Choosing the South Tower climb, we ascended 343 narrow, winding steps to enjoy panoramic views of Vienna. The climb was challenging but worth it for the incredible vistas.
Evening: Wiener Schnitzel and Oktoberfest at Prater Park
Dinner at Prater Park
Before catching our train, we stopped at Prater Park, where we stumbled upon an Oktoberfest celebration. Amidst lively tents and stalls, we enjoyed a traditional Wiener schnitzel—a must-try dish in Vienna.
Night: Boarding the Nightjet Train to Venice
Packing Up and Lockers
After dinner, we returned to the main train station to store our luggage in coin-operated lockers (€3.50 for 24 hours). With some time to spare, we explored the station’s amenities, including clean restrooms (€0.50 fee).
Overnight Train Comforts
Our Nightjet train to Venice featured cozy seats, pillows, and blankets, ensuring a comfortable journey. Departing slightly behind schedule at 9:35 p.m., we settled in for a restful ride to the floating city.
Final Thoughts on Vienna
In just one day, Vienna left a lasting impression with its mix of historic charm, architectural grandeur, and efficient public transit. While a longer stay would allow for a deeper dive into the city’s museums and palaces, our whirlwind tour captured its essence.
Next stop: Venice, where we’ll explore the canals, gondolas, and timeless beauty of this iconic Italian city. Stay tuned!
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