Issue link: https://viewer.e-digitaleditions.com/i/1527274
O N E D AY I N V I E N N A Vienna's musical history is matched by the elegant, graceful architecture that lines the Ringstrasse, the wide boulevard encircling the Inner City. Baroque, neo-Renaissance, Gothic-Romanesque and other splendidly styled structures, from the Hofburg Palace to the Vienna State Opera, take the breath away with their grand facades. 4 8 . 2 0 8 1 ° N , 1 6 . 3 7 1 3 ° E Vienna, Austria's elegant capital, is a city where imperial history, classical music, and modern culture harmoniously coexist. As your Viking Longship docks on the banks of the Danube, prepare to embark on a journey through time, exploring the grandeur and charm of this remarkable city. With just one day to experience Vienna, this itinerary ensures you capture the essence of its beauty, history, and culture. 48 | Viking Explorer Society News Begin your day with a visit to Schönbrunn Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the former summer residence of the Habsburg emperors. Arriving early allows you to explore the palace's opulent rooms, including the Great Gallery and the Hall of Mirrors, without the crowds. The palace's 1,441 rooms are filled with baroque splendor, telling the stories of Empress Maria Theresa and Emperor Franz Joseph. After touring the interior, stroll through the expansive Schönbrunn Gardens, a perfect example of formal baroque landscaping. Don't miss the Gloriette, a grand arch offering panoramic views of the palace and Vienna's skyline. The gardens are also home to the world's oldest zoo, the Tiergarten Schönbrunn, if time allows for a quick visit. Head back to the city center for a taste of Vienna's culinary delights. Start with a visit to Naschmarkt, Vienna's most famous food market. Here, you can sample local delicacies such as Viennese sausages, freshly baked pastries, and perhaps a glass of local wine. The market's vibrant atmosphere, with its mix of food stalls and small eateries, is a feast for the senses. Next, step into St. Stephen's Cathedral (Stephansdom), the city's iconic Gothic masterpiece. As you admire the cathedral's intricate architecture, consider climbing the 343 steps of the South Tower for a breathtaking view of Vienna. The cathedral's Images Clockwise: Schönbrunn Palace Garden; Evening State Opera House; St. Stephen's Wiener Schnitzel; Mozart Monument Burggarten; Naschmark Antwerp