Rick Steves Says This City With Something For Every Traveler Is Europe's Most Elegant

Whether you're into coffeehouse conversations, fascinating museums, grand palaces, or classical music concerts, one European city has something for everyone — and it delivers it in style. As Rick Steves shares on his website: "Vienna ranks right at the top of my list of elegant European cities." Elegance can sometimes feel exclusive, but not in Vienna. Steves says the city is "an expert in good living. People stroll the streets here as if every day were Sunday."

Until the end of World War I, Vienna was one of the capitals of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, a sprawling land that encompassed parts of far-flung countries like Italy, Ukraine, and Serbia. After a turbulent 20th century, Vienna has settled into a quieter role as one of the world's most liveable cities and capital of Austria. But it's not just an incredible place to live. It's one of Europe's top tourist destinations, as Steves explains on his blog. "The city center is skyscraper-free, pedestrian-friendly, speckled with leafy parks and cozy cafés, and a joy to bike through."

Many parts of Vienna have changed little in looks since its heyday as an imperial capital. For a glimpse of some of its most elegant buildings, Rick Steves says hopping on a tram around the Ringstrasse is a must. This circular road encloses the Innere Stadt (the inner city where most of the main sights are found) and is lined with some of Vienna's most beautiful buildings. You'll get a glimpse of the magnificent façade of the Vienna State Opera, the neoclassical Austrian Parliament, and the Gothic spires of the Votivkirche (Votive Church). To travel the entire ring, you'll need to take trams 1 and 2, switching lines halfway through. It costs just around $3 and is the perfect introduction to Vienna.

Vienna is a must-visit destination for classical music lovers. Steves' pick to learn about the history of music in Vienna is the Haus der Musik, an interactive museum where you can try your hand at virtually conducting the Viennese Philharmonic Orchestra. Be sure to attend a classical concert while you're there, too. Vienna's concerts are a far cry from the stuffy, upper-crust image some people associate with the genre. As Steves says: "This city's devotion to the musical arts and its democratic embrace of culture are inspirational."

There are many venues to choose from, including the Mozarthaus and the world-renowned Musikverein. You can also attend certain performances at the State Opera House for less than $10, as long as you don't mind less-than-ideal seats. This is classical music for the masses, and it's something you don't want to miss!

No visit to Vienna is complete without exploring its two most iconic palaces: Schönbrunn and the Hofburg. Once the summer residence of the Habsburgs, Schönbrunn Palace features opulent rooms and vast formal gardens with stunning views over Vienna. The Hofburg in the city center is home to the famous Spanish Riding School and is a maze of grand courtyards and elegant apartments. A short walk from the Hofburg, you'll find one of the world's greatest art collections at the Kunsthistorisches Museum. Housed in a palatial building, the museum's exhibits include sculptures from Ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome, and paintings by European masters like Vermeer, Caravaggio, and Bruegel.

When you've had your fill of culture, it's time to fill your belly. Rick Steves recommends going to a café on Michaelerplatz (St. Michael's Square), where you'll find faded grandeur and mouthwatering pastries. These cozy, historic establishments allow you to experience café culture while taking a break from the crowds. Don't miss apple strudel and Sachertorte (a rich chocolate cake), as they're two of Vienna's most famous sweets. If you're after something more savory, you can't beat the Wiener schnitzel for a sit-down meal. But as Steves says, "the city is a hot-dog capital," so grab one from one of the many sausage stands around the city for a quick bite.

Located in the heart of Europe, Vienna is easily reachable by plane and train. There are some direct flights from the U.S., including New York and Los Angeles, as well as budget airline connections from all over Europe. The airport is a speedy 16-minute train ride from the city. Many other travelers arrive by long-distance train, and this is a fantastic option for those exploring more of Central Europe (and beyond). There are far too many international train connections to mention, but Germany, Switzerland, Italy, Czechia, and Hungary are all easily reachable. Overnight trains run frequently from the Austrian capital, too, saving you a hotel bill.

Vienna thrives year-round, and there's no bad time to be there, from the smaller crowds during spring to amazing outdoor concerts in summer to exploring museum culture in the fall. It's also a great place to visit on a winter trip to Europe. There are Christmas markets and outdoor ice-skating rinks, and it's the perfect time to take in a concert by the famous Vienna Boys Choir. Whatever the season, it's always a good time to follow Rick Steves' advice and "enjoy the good life Viennese style: masterful music, wonderful pastries, and awe-inspiring art."