Introduction
Austria’s convenient, central position within mainland Europe makes it an excellent gateway for European travelers. Located in eastern Austria along the Danube, Vienna is Austria’s political, financial and administrative capital. For centuries it was the seat of the Habsburg Empire, and today’s Vienna (Wien) is a city full of tradition and rich in architectural, artistic and musical heritage.Vienna is split into twenty-three districts (Bezirke). The majority of the top tourist attractions lie within the first district, which was formally protected by the city walls, though nowadays it is circumvented by the Ringstrasse instead. Districts two through to nine are just as rich in treasures to discover, including some magnificent boutiques, galleries, theatres and palaces.
The Viennese are renowned for their impeccable taste in music and gourmet foods as well as a particular attachment to old-fashioned traditions and pride in their gorgeous surroundings. Vienna’s location means that a cruise along the Danube, a tour through the Vienna Woods or a train-ride to the Austrian Alps are all within reach for a magnificent day excursion.
