Ya Mule! Backpacking in Siena, Italy
Ah, the glamour of backpacking through Europe. Of course, the glamour comes with a price as I found in Siena, Italy.
Siena
Siena is located an hour or so outside of Florence, Italy. My handy dandy guidebook suggested it was a side trip that just had to be made. A medieval structure located behind protective walls on the top of a hill. The central area was generally closed off to cars and it was a taste of true Italy. Who was I to argue?
As I sat on the train, I check my backpack for any excess weight. I had already discarded or sent home unnecessary items and was feeling pretty light on my feet. Next thing I knew, the train had stopped and I was standing on flat road next to a rolling hill covered in trees and homes. Siena proper was at the top.
The thing about rolling hills with lots of foliage is they are simply evil. You can never get a grasp on how far it is to the top. You keep thinking the top appears to be a few hundred feet in front of you until you reach it. Then you discover it is just a dip before another upward section. The hill up to Siena is just such a rolling hill. Throw in a road that twists all over the hill like a drunken sailor on leave, and youll never scoff at a moped again.
Getting in touch with my inner mule, I began to climb and tame the great beast. As I trudged along, I thought of all the great people that must of walked up the same hill throughout history. As I stood in the shade panting, I thought all of those great people probably hitched a ride instead of walking like me.
After thirty-five minutes or so, I was seriously starting to think about hitching a ride. Of course, this would mean admitting defeat. The battle between my genetic male stubbornness and this sucks attitude was intense. Like a mule, I kept going. Five bends, three dips that I could have sworn were the top.
Just as I was giving ina wall. A really big wall. I passed it and suddenly was in a large parking lot area with tourist buses. Hands on knees, shirt soaking, I tried to maintain my dignity as the tourist looked at me like I was insane. Did that moron walk up here? One even took a picture!
After composing myselferr, getting my breath back, I booked a room in a little hotel. The young lady working the desk seemed hesitant, but I made some comment about it being a long way up from the valley. She started giggling and I had the room.
I showered and went looking for trouble. Well, trouble that was on a flat surface. In the town centre, I stumbled upon a small caf selling Mexican beer. Being from San Diego, this was nirvana. My inner mule was quickly appeased and the hill of death forgotten.
Reflecting on my climb from a historical perspective, I learned a good lesson. It is far better to be behind the wall than trying to attack it!
Why The British Love To Holiday In Spain
Have you ever been to Spain for a holiday? Are you thinking of travelling to Spain for a holiday in the near future? Do you always return to Spain each year for your annual holiday? Many British people continue to travel to Spain each year despite there being many more destinations available around the world at affordable prices. In this article, I write about why the British love and continue to travel to Spain for their holidays.
A recent report highlighted the fact that many British people do not just return to Spain once, but in fact return to Spain most years for their holiday. One lady who was around fifty years of age was asked by the reporter how many times she had chosen Spain for her holiday destination, twelve she answered. A man who was probably in his forties was asked the same question, he replied, eight times.
With the birth of the budget airline you would have thought that people may choose other destinations to visit, some of course do, but what is the reason behind all of these other people travelling back to Spain, year in, year out?
Many of these people will only be able to afford one holiday abroad per year and if they have really enjoyed travelling to Spain in the past and all what it has to offer, they may not be willing to take a risk with a new resort or country.
A lot of these people see Spain as quite similar to the UK, apart from the fact that it is a lot warmer. This sun is of course is why most of them are taking their holiday abroad, how many times have we taken a holiday in Britain, in August for example, and the weather has been poor?
The food in these Spanish resorts is very much catered for us Brits and there are many British themed bars where people are able to drink British beer and watch the English Premiership in football.
This is no doubt true of many other resorts around the world but people may be of the mindset of why fix it, if it is not broken.
To travel to Spain is very cheap and the flights are also quite short, this suits a family taking their children as well as members of an older generation.
With the internet now available in most households, people are able to plan and book their holidays for even cheaper than before, this is by booking the flights and hotels well in advance.
I personally like to travel to different destinations when I go abroad but can fully understand why other people would choose to return to the same place, for example Spain.
Why Romania is a Holiday Must This Summer
Planning a vacation? Well Romania is the place to beit is the most diverse country in terms of climate, terrain, flora and fauna; snow capped mountains and a sultry coastline- you can ski on snow or on water!
It is located in southeastern Europe. Romania is surrounded by Ukraine to the north, Hungary to its north west, Moldova to the north east and Bulgaria in the south. The famous river Danube flows through Romania from the northwest to the east into the equally famous black sea after forming a picturesque delta- the famous Danube delta!
Romanians are known to be very friendly and hospitable people. The national language is Romanian and others include Hungarian and German. Most Romanians can also communicate fluently in English.
How to get to Romania?
If you are in Europe you can get to Romania by train, road or a sea cruise!
If you are in another part of the world then the most convenient airline is the AUSTRIAN. For the flight details, you can either visit an international travel agent in your area or book your tickets online the latter is preferable if you want to move about and discover the place on your own and of course if you have done it on previous vacations to other places. You can opt for a tour package if you are not too sure of going on your own.
Places to stay once you are there:
Why not try the 4 Star Hotel Europa in Eforie Nord. Situated in a dramatic setting overlooking the bay in the scenic Efories Nord.
Or perhaps spend your holiday at the 3 Star Vox Maris Club Resort Hotel an ideal short haul summer destination. In Costinesti the Vox Maris is a self-contained club resort and is a perfect location to enjoy the Black Sea.
Or finally why not stay at the excellent value Raluca Hotel in the beautiful Black sea beach resort of Venus.
Places to Visit
Looking for leisure?
The beaches along the black sea coast of Romania are your best bet. Romania has a 225 miles stretch of the most beautiful pristine white sandy beaches dotted with hotels and natural spas. The lakes and rivers of the Danube delta are another place for leisure and for the romantic at heart!
For the history enthusiast
There are a number of ancient castles and fortresses and still intact medieval towns for the history buff to visit. The most famous castles are Peles castle, Bran castle, Corvinesti castle and the Royal Palace Bucharest. Among the best preserved medieval towns are Brasov, Sibiu and Sighisoara. One of Sighisoaras most famous attractions is the Clock Tower also known as Council Tower built in the 14th Century; another famous attraction is Vlad the Impaler or Dracula House. The painted monasteries are another very interesting must see place in Romania!
Looking for Natural Therapeutic Remedies?
Spas are said to have been started by the Romans and Romania is home to a third of Europes mineral and thermal springs. Romania’s main spas are located at Mangalia, Neptun, Eforie Nord, Covasna, Slanic Moldova, Vatra Dornei, Borsec, Sovata, Tusnad, Calimanesti, Govora, Herculane, Buzias and Baile Felix.
Activities:
Given Romanias diverse terrain, climate, flora, and fauna you can choose from a number of activities such as Bird watching, camping, cycling tours, fishing, golf, hiking, horseback riding, rafting, skiing.
Visitors Guide to Venice, Veneto, Italy
One of the jewels of Italy, Venice is known throughout the world for its stunning architecture and miles of canals. Consisting of 117 separate islands linked by a series of historic bridges, canals and pavements, Venice is visited each year by many thousands of tourists. Home to some of the world most stunning buildings, impressive museums and art galleries, and a large selection of top restaurants, Venice has much to offer and rarely disappoints.
Central Venice consists of six main regions, Cannaregio, Castello, Dorsoduro, Santa Croce, San Polo and San Marco, each full of local charm and appeal. One of the most famous landmarks in the city, San Marco Square is the only public square in Venice and offers a rich heritage, with the magnificent buildings of Doge’s Palace and the Basilica San Marco nearby. Castello is the most historical area of the city and is known for its Arsenale ship-building yard.
On the northern side of Venice, Cannaregio contains the Santa Lucia Railway Station, with nearby Santa Croce linking the city to Italy’s mainland. The smallest area of the city is the San Polo district, which offers many local eateries and inns. On Venice’s southern side you will find the district of Dorsoduro, which contains the notable 17th-century Dogana da Mar.
Transport in Venice:
Central Venice is easy to traverse on food, being generally well pedestrianized. Popular methods of transport include inexpensive water buses and more pricey motorboat taxis, both of which offer a convenient and extremely scenic way to travel around the canals. Connected by rail to many large cities in both Italy and Europe, Venice stands on the A4 Autostrada.
The city is home to a large and busy airport, which is located around 8 miles / 13 km from the centre and caters for many international airlines. Venice’s Marco Polo International Airport is easy to reach by a range of transportation, such as buses, cars, taxis, boats and rail.
Venice Tourism:
No trip to Venice would be complete without a trip in a traditional gondola and the city is geared up towards the tourist trade, with many must-see sights and attractions. Some of the most popular things to see in Venice include the numerous palaces and historic structures, such as the Rialto Bridge (Ponte di Rialto), the Palazzo Mocenigo, the Palazzo Ducale (Doge’s Palace), the Scuola Grande di San Rocco and a host of churches. The city is also home to countless trendy shopping areas, which are lined with local boutiques and specialist shops, together with a number of colourful markets.
Some of the most outstanding art galleries and museums in the city include the Marciano Museum, the Archaeological Museum (Museo Archeologico), the Accademia Gallery and the Contini Gallery. The watery city of Venice is also home to a surprising number of green spaces and parklands, such as the Royal Gardens (Giardinetti Reali) and the Giardino Giusti. Nearby Venice you will find a many interesting and appealing towns worth a visit, such as Burano, which is just a short trip by ferry and is known for its lace making.
Throughout the year, many major events are held in the Venice area and consist of religious festivals, cultural events and sports. Events not to be missed include seasonal carnivals, the Festa di San Marco at the end of April, the Festa Medioevale del Vino Soave Bianco Soave each May, the Vogalonga rowing regatta in May, the Venice International Film Festival at the end of August, and also the New Year’s Eve masses in the city’s Catholic churches.
Venice Shopping:
Full of elegant and trendy boutiques, independent shops and vibrant markets, the city could be called a ’shopper’s paradise’ and offers plenty of genuine bargains. The best shopping areas in Venice are around the San Marco region, the Mercerie and also close to the Calle dei Fabbri. Also, regular fish markets are held alongside the Grand Canal and are popular with both locals and visitors to the city.
Venice Restaurants:
With a vast selection of restaurants, cafes and eateries, Venice offers many traditional Italian dishes, which include freshly made pizzas, pastas, paninis, cheeses and salads. Many other types of cuisine are also available aimed at tourists visiting the city, such as fast-food outlets and bars. Al fresco dining is particularly popular in the city and around the San Marco area, known locally as the ‘Piazza San Marco’.
Visitors Guide to Rome, Lazio, Italy
One of the world’s most historic and fascinating cities, Rome is famous for its rich heritage and important buildings. Many magnificent monuments and truly ancient ruins reside in Rome, together with numerous vibrant shopping areas, restaurants and sightseeing opportunities. The city has much to offer tourists and also offers a selection of nearby beaches.
Standing alongside the scenic River Tiber, Rome has a population of almost 3 million and experiences hot summer weather and particularly mild, pleasant winters. With year-round attractions, many people choose to visit Rome between November to February, when the city is at its quietest.
Rome Hotels:
Being one of Italy’s most popular tourist destinations, it is hardly surprising that Rome is full of hotels, catering for all tastes and budgets. Ranging from impressive hotels in the Centro Storico (historic centre), to more modern accommodation around the Campo dei Fiori, hotels in Rome quickly become fully booked, and so be sure to reserve your room in advance. Bed and breakfasts in Rome are known as ‘pensioni’ and often provide particularly good value for money, with a number being located close to the ‘Stazione Termini’ railway station and Trastevere area.
Rome Tourism:
Rome has long been a major tourist destination and its historical attractions and important ruins are known throughout the world. However, the city is also an exciting and vibrant place to visit, with many impressive shops, restaurants, entertainment venues and seasonal festivals. Some of the most popular places to visit in Rome include the Circus Maximus, the Coliseum, the Forum, the Pantheon, Janiculum Hill, the Trevi Fountain, the Spanish Steps, and the vast Vatican City, the official residence of the Pope, head of the Roman Catholic faith. The Sistine Chapel at the Vatican City is particularly awe-inspiring, together with the city’s numerous art galleries and museums.
Popular events in the city include many operas, ballets and concerts at Rome’s numerous theatres. Other seasonal highlights include regular football matches at the Stadio Olimpico, the Rome Marathon each March, religious events throughout Easter, concerts at the Teatro Olimpico, June’s Pesaro Film Festival, and also the Festa della Madonna della Neve, held every August.
Rome Transport:
With good rail connections to a number of major cities, including Florence and Venice, Rome is well-connected by highways, which provide easy access to nearby towns. Rome’s Metro subway network, public buses and trams all provide inexpensive ways to travel throughout the city. Car rental is one of the most popular ways to travel out of the city and is perfect for day trips and excursions.
Located around 18 miles / 29 km from the city centre, Leonardo da Vinci Airport, also known as Fiumicino, is an important air transport hub. Dealing with large numbers of domestic and international flights each day, ground transportation at the airport includes buses, trains and car hire.
Rome Shopping:
Known for its chic fashion boutiques and expensive department stores, shopping in Rome is a major attraction. With many bustling shops clustered around the Piazza Di Spagna, other popular stores can be found around the city’s Via Del Governo Vecchio area, close to the Spanish Steps, along the Via Sistina, and on Via Borgognona. Also, the pedestrianized Via Frattina is the perfect place for some serious window shopping.
Rome Restaurants:
Home to one of the greatest cuisines in the world, Italian restaurants are known for their superb local specialities, which include freshly made pizzas, pasta dishes, paninis, salads, a selection of cheeses and many other types of food. Al fresco dining is particularly popular in Rome, with an array of cafes, bars and superb ice cream shops clustered around the piazzas.
Visitors Guide to Florence, Italy
The city of Florence is actually the capital of Italy’s Tuscany area and stands alongside the scenic banks of the Arno River, close to the Tyrrhenian and Adriatic Seas. Bustling with local industry, which includes arts and crafts, commerce and tourism; Florence is a particularly historic location, steeped in heritage.
One of the most desirable places to visit in Italy, Florence was originally founded by Romans during the first century and grew dramatically between the 1200s and 1600s. Of particular importance, the Medici family, who ruled over Florence during the 15th century, were responsible for many of the city’s most spectacular landmarks, buildings and monuments, most of which remain in excellent condition.
Florence Travel:
The Florence area features a well-structured public transport network, comprising of main railway lines, orange ATAF buses and local taxis that congregate at various taxi ranks and around the piazzas. Renting a car is one of the most popular ways to travel around the Tuscany area and the A1 Motorway connects Florence to many major Italian cities, such as Bologna, Milan, Naples and Rome. Also the A11 Motorway links Florence to Lucca, Pisa and a number of coastal resorts.
Florence is easy to reach from around the world and the city’s Amerigo Vespucci Airport is nearby. Just 5 km / 3 miles from the city center, the Florence Vespucci Airport offers modern facilities and is home to a number of important international and Italian airlines
Florence Commerce:
With a thriving commercial city centre and many businesses supporting the services and financial sector, Florence is a wealthy city. Nowadays, with tourism being an equally important industry in the city, many local crafts boost the economy, such as jewellery, leatherwork and ceramics, together with hotels. Florence contains a number of notable, medium-sized companies, including engineering firms, publishing and textile businesses.
Florence Hotels:
Hotels in Florence are often fairly expensive throughout the year and many are centrally located, although a number of popular cheaper alternatives are available. Accommodation during the peak season quickly becomes fully booked in the most popular hotels and it can be advisable to book at least two weeks ahead. If you decide to rent a car, ensure that the hotel has car parking space available before booking. Hotels can be found all around the city centre, in the green Viale dei Colli area, close to the Santa Maria Novella train station, alongside the Arno River and on the city outskirts.
Florence Tourism:
Tourism in the Florence area is important and thousands of people choose to visit this part of Tuscany each year, to enjoy the scenic views, historical buildings, stunning architecture and famous works of art. Must-see attractions in Florence include a number of magnificent palaces, such as the Palazzo Vecchio, Palazzo Medici-Riccardi and Palazzo Strozzi. Other attractions include the Piazza del Signoria, the Teatro Comunale (theatre), the arched Ponte Vecchio bridge, the historic Campanile di Giotto and the world-famous Duomo / Santa Maria del Fiore also known as the ‘Cathedral of Florence’.
Top museums in Florence contain many important art exhibitions and outstanding exhibits. Worth a visit are the National Archeological Museum, the Uffizi Gallery and the Academy Gallery, amongst many others. Also, the Chianti area, which is situated between the city of Florence and nearby Siena, features one of Italy’s most stunning countryside landscapes and is also home to a number of famous vineyards.
Florence Restaurants:
Restaurants in Italy are known as ‘Ristoranti’ or ‘Trattories’ and are widespread in Florence, with many different kinds of cuisine readily available. Menu prices do not usually include service charges and these are added to the bill, together with any further cover charges (‘coperto’). Therefore, tipping in Florence restaurants is not strictly necessary, although always very much appreciated. Lunch in the city is generally taken around 13:00 and is the main meal of the day, with dinner being eaten between 20:00 and 21:00.
Florence Weather:
The city of Florence features fairly temperature weather, with notable hot, sunny summer months and cooler, breezy winters. Temperatures between the months of July and August are at their hottest and reach highs of up to 32C / 90F. January tends to be Florence’s coldest month with daytime temperatures only reaching 9C / 48F, although lows of 1C / 34F may be experienced.
Visiting Vienna Austria
Vienna Austria is the countrys capital and is located on the scenic River Danube. This city was the political center of the Austrian Empire and is home to ornate palaces and museums. Many of these were built for or by the Hapsburg family and trace the family history as well as the countrys history.
Visiting Vienna
The city has many hotels and other accommodations near the airport and in surrounding areas. There are hotels in every price range. The inner city is home to monuments and parks that are popular tourist attractions. Old, ornate churches can be found here as well as other building such as Parliament, the University and Opera house.
When planning your trip, be aware that most attractions are closed on public holidays in the city. Public holidays include: January 1, January 6, the Monday after Easter, May 1, Ascension Thursday, The Feast of Corpus Christi, August 15, November 1, December 8, December 25 and 26. Just about all museums, palaces and many shops are closed on these days.
Museums
o Kuntshall Wien is a museum with a collection of modern and contemporary art. The artists are both Austrian and International artists. This museum is run by the city of Vienna.
o The Sigmund Freud Museum is dedicated to the Father of Modern Psychology. It is run by the Sigmund Freud Society and traces the doctors life and work.
o Austrian Gallery Belvedere was built for Prince Eugene of Savoy as a summer home. It is now open for tours and contains art work and historical information. The gardens are spectacular and are also open for touring.
Palaces in Vienna
Vienna is home to several palaces built for the Hapsburg family. The Imperial Palace is located in the inner city and it was from here that the Hapsburgs ruled for seven centuries. It was constructed in the early 13th century. The Gothic chapel on the site is still open on Sundays for services. The Vienna Boys Choir sings here. The palace is open for tours during the week.
The Gothic Cathedral of St. Stephens is located near the Imperial Palace. Construction on this ornate cathedral was started in the thirteenth century and completed in the fifteenth century. The steeple of St. Stephens can be seen from all over the city.
Schonbrunn Palace was built as a summer residence for Empress Sisi. The grounds include a park, zoo and large labyrinth that are open for tour as well as an ornate, Baroque style palace. There is so much to see at this palace that you should plan an entire day here.
The Belvedere Palace is also built in the Baroque style. This palace was the heart of the former Hapsburg empire. The Austrian Gallery Belvedere is located here. In addition to viewing the artwork, you can tour the palace and gardens.
The Imperial Burial Vault is located below the Capuchin Church and is open for tours. This was the burial place for members of the Hapsburg family. The vault contains 146 aristocrats, 12 emperors and 19 empresses.
Visiting France: Paris and Nice
For a holiday you will always treasure, be sure to visit France. With so much to offer within one country, France hosts the most tourists than any other country in the world. From romantic, cultural Paris to the heights of the snowcapped French Alps to the southern sizzling beaches. France hotels can add to the splendor of your trip with an amazing selection that can be found with ease on the internet.
Paris: fashion capital of Europe
Surrounded by style and romance you just cant help fall in love with Paris. Notre Dame, the Eiffel Tower, street cafs and fashion boulevards, a boat trip on the River Seine there is so much to see and experience.
Transport: how to get there and around:
The main airport which greets most visitors to Paris is Charles de Gaulle. Paris can also be reached with ease by train from surrounding countries and many destinations within France. If traveling from the UK the ferry is also an option.
Getting around Paris is best on foot, its a great place for walking and sightseeing. If your not feeling so energetic there is a metro system.
Accommodation: Luxury to budget stays
The internet can offer some of the best information on the cost, range and location of hotels in Paris.
Weather
Paris is fortunate to be situated in a basin so has little rain compared with the rest of the country. Generally the weather in the capital is temperate.
Attractions & Events
Parisians love to celebrate, here are just a few events you should look out for.
* The glamorous Paris Fashion Week showcases the latest designer spring collections in March.
*Bastille Day is a special day for the whole country. The French National Day is celebrated in Paris with style on the 14th July with parades, parties and fireworks.
*The International Photo Fair is also worth a visit and takes place in November.
Nice: treasure of the Cte dAzur
Nice has a special ambiance and charm that attracts a great number of visitors to walk through its old cobblestone streets. Nice offers history, culture as well as the modern delights of shopping and night life. Add to this the long stretch of beach and you have a great holiday combination.
The temperature in Nice makes the pebble beach a great spot to relax. The waters are warm, clear and inviting and are just a pebbles throw away from neighboring St Tropez and Cannes.
Transport: how to get there and around:
Traveling around France is easy using the impressive, fast rail system. You can get to Nice by train and bus or if traveling from further a field, the International Airport is just 6 kms from town. Ferries are also an option, they run to Corsica.
Getting around Nice is easy on foot, it is pleasant to walk around and explore the sights.
Accommodation: Luxury to budget stays
The internet can offer some of the best information on the cost, range and location of Nice hotels
Weather
Summertime in Nice can be scorching up to 40 C. Typical climate however can be described as Mild, averaging 15 C. Winter is also mild with lowest temperatures being around 5 C.
Attractions & Events
*Nice holds an annual carnival during the latter half of February. The lavish street parades end with a fabulous fireworks show.
*During June, the city hold religious processions and prayers for patron saints St John and St Peter.
*July is for music lovers as the worlds finest Jazz players meet in the city for the Nice Jazz Festival.
Visit Italy: Rome and Milan
Beautifully historic yet so fashionably up to date, Italy has all the components of the Dolce Vita in good measure – good food, good wine and beautiful people impeccably attired in the latest fashions.
Weather
Italy is a long country running from the mountainous north down to the sunny south kissed by the Mediterranean. So there are wide regional differences in climate. Generally the most pleasant time to visit Italy is during autumn and spring.
Accommodation: Luxury to budget stays
The internet can offer some of the best information on the cost, range and location of Italy hotels.
Rome: the home of renaissance
Rome, the capital city of Italy, is world famous for its history and monuments – the Colosseum, the Vatican City to name a few. With so much art, culture, history and religion, Rome is an unforgettable destination.
Transport: how to get there and around
The international airport is situated 16 miles out of the city centre and is served by a regular train service which runs every hour into town. Many of the bus services run from the main station near Stazione Termini. The Metro service also connects with Termini.
Weather
The weather does vary according to the time of year. The summer can be extremely hot and the Winter brings a chill. During the rest of the year temperatures are pleasant with a mild climate.
Accommodation: Luxury to budget stays
The internet can offer some of the best information on the cost, range and location of Hotels in Rome.
Attractions & Events
*During the Holy Week at Easter time, the city is crowded with Catholic pilgrims visiting the churches and the Vatican to see the Pope. There is also a procession on Good Friday from the Colosseum to Capitoline Hill.
*The streets come alive from June to September when the Romans celebrate Estate Romana (Roman Summer) with outdoor theatre, concerts and cinema
*Late night shoppers should head to Rome during September for Notte Bianca (white night). Stores, galleries and museums stay open through the night until 8am in the morning!
Milan: city of design and innovation
Milan is all about lifestyle. Who needs beautiful buildings if you’re going to shop all day or spend you hours in a theatre, cinema, night club or restaurant?
Transport: how to get there and around
There are two airports serving Milan, for international flights there is Malpensa airport and domestic is Linate airport. You can also get to Linate airport from some European destinations.
The train station known as Stazione Central connects to an extensive network to get you in and around Milan. The city also boasts underground trains, trams and buses.
Weather
The weather in Milan can be described as temperate most of the time, with the exception of the occasion heat wave.
Accommodation: Luxury to budget stays
The internet can offer some of the best information on the cost, range and location of Hotels in Milan.
Attractions & Events
*The Festa del Naviglio starts at the beginning of June and brings ten days of performances, music and parades.
*Enjoy live music in November with The Milan Jazz Festival.
*There are celebrations on 7 December with the Festa di Sant’Ambrogio. Milans La Scala opera house also opens its season on this day.
Vienna: City Of The Arts
On the banks of the Danube, Vienna and its population of over 2 million people bask proudly in their cultural heritage. Viennas love affair with the arts stretches back centuries and helped make it today, Austrias number one tourist attraction.
A romantic imperial city, Vienna bears the hallmarks of a capital steeped in history, beautifully contrasted by its modern infrastructure.
A city of music, Vienna was home to some of historys greatest composers. Mozart, Beethoven, Schubert and Strauss were all proud to call Vienna their home.
Viennas musical heritage has been preserved to the present day. The Vienna Boys Choir is ever popular and the Wiener Philharmoniker remains a world class orchestra.
But its not all about classical music. Vienna boasts a vibrant nightlife that compares with the best, catering for folks of all ages, young and old.
Historically a city of culture, Vienna boasts many talents amongst its repertoire. Whatever the time of year, you can be certain the city has plenty to offer.
A theatre break is always a rewarding experience; witness the latest film and dance productions or just sit back and soak up the best of classical opera. A vast array of concerts and exhibitions are held throughout the year.
If you just want to relax and idly watch the world go by then make a beeline for one of Viennas many coffee houses. Take the weight off your feet and exchange thoughts of the day with your fellow coffee connoisseurs.
For those in need of something a little stronger, a visit to one of the citys wine taverns will have you unwinding in no time.
Right through history, Vienna has embraced the world of art and proudly boasts many of its own world famous artists. Through the centuries, kings and queens of Austria were passionate art collectors, rendering Austria and Vienna in particular a treasure trove of fine art.
Many of these masterpieces can be seen at the Museum of Fine Arts; a magnificent building exhibiting works from across the world, in particular that of its favourite sons.
Indeed, art and literature feature predominately during Viennas history. Underground railway stations designed by Otto Wagner are listed properties; coffee house literature is digested by both young and old.
Wherever you stay in Vienna, historical landmarks are never far, many dating back to medieval times.
Set in beautiful grounds, Belvedere Palace is a magnificent example of Viennese architecture. Designed by the famous Baroque architect Von Hildebrandt, the fabulous palace was originally built for Prince Eugene of Savoy.
Besides their love of the arts, the Viennese love to shop. Markets are scattered throughout Vienna but most popular is the Naschmarkt. Dating back to the 16th century, everything from childrens shoes to apples can be purchased. If you can endure the crowds, bargains are aplenty.
Indulge in the fun and games at the Prater, Viennas biggest funfair. If the noise and crowds become too much, escape to the open fields or take a stroll through the adjacent forest and chill out with the wildlife.
For spectacular views of the city head for the Danube Tower, known locally as the Concrete Needle. The tower is over 350 meters high; with your head in the clouds, Vienna never looked so good.
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