Lifestyle in Vienna

Many expats notice that the lifestyle in Vienna has a distinctly laid-back feel to it. Rather than live to work, the Viennese tend to work to live – and the vast array of things to see and do here reflects that.

Although known as the classical music capital of the world, Vienna also has a lot to offer in terms of food and entertainment. There is always time to linger and enjoy a good cup of coffee or spend an afternoon browsing a street market.

Shopping in Vienna

If you enjoy shopping, you will be pleased to learn that Vienna has plenty of places to indulge in a bit of retail therapy. Mariahilfer Strasse is one of the longest shopping streets in the city. You can find all sorts of department stores there, with smaller shops and quaint street cafés tucked away in between.

Another must-see shopping street is Kärntner Strasse, which has the notable distinction of hosting the flagship store of Swarovski, which was founded in Austria. Fashionistas will feel right at home in Kärntner Strasse, which has everything from designer labels to high-street fashion close at hand.

Markets in Vienna

Vienna is known for its food markets, most notably the Naschmarkt and Brunnenmarkt. The Naschmarkt is filled with unusual and tasty foods from every corner of the world and has plenty to offer expats and tourists alike.

The Brunnenmarkt is located in a trendy art district and offers a wide selection of goods, including plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables, fish, exotic spices, and much else. Somewhat less touristy than the Naschmarkt, you are more likely to meet and mingle with locals at the Brunnenmarkt.

Eating out in Vienna

You will find it difficult to choose between the many international dishes and restaurants on offer when you’re looking to eat out in Vienna. From classic Viennese fare to teppanyaki or modern vegan cuisine, you will have access to a variety of global flavours.

Austria’s chefs often focus on sustainable cooking practices, with an emphasis on farm-to-table dining experiences, so you’re sure to enjoy many fresh and delicious meals in Vienna.

The coffee house culture is an integral part of Vienna’s cultural identity. Visit a local coffee house to enjoy some Kaiserschmarrn or Apfelstrudel with your coffee while reading a book or catching up with a friend.

Arts and culture in Vienna

Vienna is a lovely city to stroll through and is full of cultural pursuits. The Museumsquartier is a great place to start. It’s home to several museums, including the Leopold Museum, which is a great introduction to some of Austria’s well-known artists. For those with kids, the whole family is sure to have a fun day out filled with activities at the ZOOM Kindermuseum.

Living up to its nickname of the City of Music, Vienna is, of course, bursting with high-class performance venues where you can find a wide variety of musical talent. The Wiener Staatsoper (Vienna State Opera) is a must-see, and with an average of 50 operas a year, it’s easy to find a performance that fits your schedule.

See and do in Vienna

Vienna is a spectacular and vibrant city with countless things to see and do on any day of the week. It is also a cultural and historical paradise, with many museums, architectural landmarks, and entertainment possibilities throughout the city.

You can purchase a Vienna City Card for discounts to some of these sites and public transport access. Below are some sights worth visiting in Vienna.

St Stephen’s Cathedral

Located in Stephansplatz, St Stephen’s Cathedral is an impressive Catholic Church right in the heart of Vienna. It is the most important and recognisable church in the Austrian capital. Thanks to its distinctly colourful roof, it can easily be spotted from just about anywhere in Vienna.

Schönbrunn Palace

One of the most popular tourist attractions in Vienna, Schönbrunn is a Rococo-style building which was once the summer palace of the Habsburg monarchy. The palace has more than 1,400 rooms and lovely gardens, which visitors can enjoy during the summer months.

Das Schmetterlinghaus (The Butterfly House)

Situated in the gardens of the Hofburg Palace, this special tropical butterfly house displays and breeds hundreds of live, free-flying butterflies from all over the world. Be aware that it is quite humid inside, as they have tried to replicate a natural rainforest environment for the butterflies.

Kunsthistorisches Museum Wien (Museum of Art History Vienna)

This is regarded as one of the best art museums in the world, and the scope of the works found here comes close to the collections of the Louvre or the Prado. The museum is housed in a magnificent building located close to Hofburg Palace and holds an impressive collection of Egyptian and Greek art and many European pieces.

Useful links

• Vienna City Card

Where to meet people and make friends in Vienna

Making friends in a new city can be one of the most challenging aspects of moving, but building a community is a surefire way to ensure you feel at home. One of the best ways to start meeting people is to join a local club or meet-up group.

Vienna is a diverse city, so it’s easy to find a group or social club that perfectly aligns with your interests. Sports enthusiasts can find a few fair hiking and mountain biking, clubs while giving back through volunteering is another excellent way to meet people and make friends in Vienna.

Useful links

• Vienna International Jiu Jitsu Club
• Vienna Expats
• Vienna International Centre (VIC) Hiking Club