Vienna has always been on my wish list and it was definitely worth the wait. Not only is it full of everything that one desires when going abroad - from exquisite architecture to delicious local food, but also our collection of hotels are some of the best I have seen during my time at Kirker Holidays.
Our arrival transfer went seamlessly; taking any stress away from the beginning of our journey. To then be enthusiastically greeted when arriving at our home for the next two days, the Grand Hotel Wien (5* Superior), made the perfect start to our trip. The Grand is ideally located on the Ring, just a short walk to the Staatsoper and within walking distance of the famous Leopold Musuem and the Kunsthistorisches museum - both of which are included on Kirker's complimentary Vienna Masterticket. The '1870' restaurant on the top floor has a wonderful roof-top terrace overlooking the Ring.
Another favourite of mine would have to be the Hotel Sacher (5* Deluxe), situated opposite the Staatsoper, Vienna's most famous opera house and home to almost nightly performances during the opera season (September - May). Also, the hotel's restaurant the Rote Bar is a perfect place to dine pre- or post- opera and I would strongly recommend reserving a table in advance. Let us not forget that you would not have the real Sacher experience without enjoying a delicious piece of their freshly made Sacher Torte
I would finally like to mention my favourite 4* hotel in Vienna, the Altstadt, situated in the artistic district of Spittelberg, similar to the vibrant and characterful Left Bank of Paris. This is an area full of authentic little Viennese restaurants, close to Vienna's largest shopping street and the Museum Quarter. This artistic hotel offers stylishly decorated rooms, each unique unto itself. If it is a special occasion then I would suggest booking the magnificent 'Suite L'. The complimentary afternoon tea and homemade cake served each day really is the 'icing on the cake'
During our stay we experienced a number of Vienna's many cultural attractions. Works by Egon Schiele and Gustav Klimt, along with a wonderful collection of postcards to Klint's long-life partner - Emilie Floge - are shown at the Leopold museum and the wonderful grandeur of the Kunsthistorisches Museum is a highlight in itself. On our final day I started with a two hour private walking tour of the city. I would strongly recommend you doing this at the beginning of your holiday, to help you get your bearings. I then continued on the local tram up to the Belvedere Palace, excited to see the iconic 'Kiss' by Klimt, which didn't disappoint. The Schönbrunn palace is a must as well, but I would strongly recommend arriving an hour or so before your designated time so that you can take the time to wander around its beautiful gardens, perhaps popping into the zoo or attempting to negotiate the maze. Again, it helps to book a private guide, as a building of such magnitude and splendour really does need to be deciphered by an expert.
