13 December 2024

Five cool and sustainable tips for a city trip to Vienna

Vienna is not only known for its impressive architecture, world-famous coffee house culture and historical sights, but also for its efforts towards sustainability and climate friendliness. It is not without reason that the Austrian capital has been named the "most livable city in the world" for years.

Vienna is considered one of the greenest cities, thanks to numerous sustainable projects and innovative concepts. Over 50% of the city consists of green spaces, and with the Danube-Auen National Park within the city limits, Vienna has a unique natural oasis. The city focuses on environmentally friendly mobility with a well-developed network of 1.400 km of cycle paths and 162 public transport lines.

Austria's capital also promotes sustainable living through community housing and innovative construction projects such as the climate-friendly Seestadt Aspern. At the same time, the city preserves its traditions and cozy atmosphere, which is reflected in Viennese coffee houses and the relaxed lifestyle.

Below you will find five more sustainable tips for your next city trip to Vienna.

1. Bootik54: A second-hand dream in Vienna's Bobo district

Located in the middle of the hip 7th district, you can find some treasures in this absolutely brilliant second-hand store. Even though the shop is small, it has the best Levi's denim shorts, a fantastic selection of band shirts, denim jackets and unusual accessories. And don't forget: a box full of scrunchies in all colors and patterns.

2. The Green Prater: An Oasis with Endless Possibilities

The green Prater stretches over an impressive 6 million square meters and is a true oasis of relaxation in the middle of Vienna. Between meadows and forests, you can soak up the sun on the wide lawns, have a picnic or simply enjoy the fresh air. The Prater is also ideal for jogging, cycling or slacklining. The Prater forest is particularly beautiful, with its shady paths and streams offering a peaceful atmosphere - ideal for walks and nature observation. In the Prater you will also find the odd restaurant or ice cream shop, which provides additional cooling, especially in summer.

3. Museumsquartier (MQ): Concentrated art power in the center

Im Museumsquartier, also known as the MQ, is lined up with one museum after the other - perfect for culture enthusiasts who can't decide which one to visit first. Here you will find an impressive collection of art, history and culture, including the Leopold Museum, the mumok (Museum of Modern Art) and the Kunsthalle Wien. But the MQ not only offers a variety of exhibitions, but also a lively gastronomic offer: cozy cafes, stylish restaurants and bars invite you to linger and relax.

4. Top02: Homemade eclairs, ice cream and fabulous coffee

Top 02 is a charming, family-run patisserie in Vienna that is dedicated to the enjoyment of éclairs. The delicious, freshly prepared pastries with the finest ingredients are offered every day - only while stocks last. In addition to the éclairs, there is also homemade gelato (please try the pistachio and tahini ice cream!), which delights with intense, natural flavors, as well as really good coffee that goes perfectly with the sweet treats. Located not far from the university, the café is a great place to people watch and unwind with a cup of coffee and a delicious éclair.

5. Hotel Altstadt Vienna

None of the rooms or suites in the Hotel Altstadt Vienna is the same as the other - all are individually designed by renowned artists, architects and designers who interpret the art of Viennese hospitality here. The beautiful patrician house from 1902 also houses private apartments, so that guests live next door to Viennese people.

The hotel has been family-run for 30 years: Otto Ernst Wiesenthal was a manager and, as a career changer, fulfilled his dream of owning his own hotel - also to accommodate his extensive art exhibition there. Since then, the hotel has grown steadily, from originally 24 to now 62 rooms. Otto's daughters Lisa and Saskia also work in the hotel.

Lots of color meets lots of history. Authentically Viennese and with lots of charm, guests are treated as if they were visiting friends. In the cozy salons, homemade cakes and tea are served in the afternoons by invitation of the house.