Emerald Sky – Part 4: Vienna

As we ‘waltzed’ into the City of Music, so called because of all the magnificent musicians and composers of our time, Vienna even its name conjurers up romance and elegance of a past era, the splendor of the city is a reminder of what draws of thousands of visitors per year from all over the world.  The banks of the River Danube have attracted Strauss, Mozart, Beethoven and Schubert are some of the ‘greats’ that have graced  the shores and took up residency in this amazing city. 

The Kursalon Wein Concert Hall The Emerald Sky was docked just outside the city.  The coach shuttle (all included) gave us a ‘taster’ of the city that was explained to us by our excellent English speaking guides.  We were taken along the Ringstrasse past the world famous Opera House Burgtheatre, the Town Hall and the Hofburg Imperial Palace. Then we were taken on a walking tour of this vibrant city a fusion of old and new.  

One of the highlights of the tour was the world famous Spanish Riding School, the Lipizzaner horses training in the Court Riding School.  The magnificent hall with it chandeliers and fabulous architecture, with classical music playing it set the scene for the horses to practice their moves and train.  It cost 10 Euros entrance for seniors for the two hour session starting at 10am to 12 noon.  Time did not allow us to have two hours but this does depend on your visit as there there is so much to do and see. 

Vienna is a very cosmopolitan city with lots of fabulous cafes and restaurants.  Try the world famous Demel’s cafe and cake shop and watch the staff at the back of the shop making these fascinating cakes and pastries.  Visit the Sacher Hotel for lunch and people watch, it is well known to have many celebrities dropping in for lunch or dinner, you may have to queue as it is very popular.  Try the Sachertorte or an Apfelstrudel with vanilla sauce and whipped cream, or the Wiener Schnitzel, (breaded veal or pork cutlet) or the Tafelspitz ( tender boiled beef) – excellent. 

Glynis at the Cathedral A must on your tour is the magnificent Gothic Cathedral of St Stephen, a city landmark, it is a breath taking building and for more ‘breath taking’ climb up the north tower to see excellent view of the city.  Vienna caters for all, its expensive, exclusive shops are interspersed by the tourist shops, it is a ‘easy’ walking city with pedestrian areas throughout the centre.  

A day – oh dear not enough time to enjoy this beautiful city, but what an evening.  An optional tour organised by Emerald Sky was a trip to the Kursalon Wein concert hall, to hear the sounds of Vienna.  Our approach was fabulous, beautiful sparkling lights lit up this iconic building, the grand staircase lead us up to our seats and the orchestra began, ballet dancers, singers and fun – yes, it was classical and fun.  The orchestra leader was a ‘mature’ leader with wicked sense of humor and a very good violin player.  Of course the Blue Danube was played and it was the finale, and what a night to remember. 

Vienna is a place to return to, it has a wealth of history, classic architecture, magnificent fountains and grand buildings.  Our dance teacher would be proud of us as we ‘waltzed’ and sailed the night away!

Glynis Sullivan travelled with Emerald Waterways.  Read more information

•  Read Emerald Sky – Part 1: What’s On Board
•  Read Emerald Sky – Part 2: Cologne
•  Read Emerald Sky – Part 3: Salzburg
•  Read Emerald Sky – Part 5: Budapest

•  Read Emerald Sky – Part 6: The perfect Christmas River Cruise

301 people found this helpful
17872

Share Article:

Glynis Sullivan

Traveller and writer for Silver Travel Advisor

Leave a comment

*

Sign up to our newsletter to receive the latest travel tips on top destinations.

Join the club

Become a member to receive exclusive benefits

Our community is the heart of Silver Travel Advisor, we love nothing more than sharing ideas, inspiration, hints and tips between us.

Most Recent Articles

There’s something refreshingly nostalgic about the quintessential British coach holiday….

Come feel the love on a Princess cruise. You’ll enjoy the MedallionClass experience others simply can’t, and it’s exclusively for everyone. Visit incredible destinations and be involved in the best experiences around each one of them.

Experience more with Princess and connect effortlessly with the world around you, spend time away with loved ones, take a moment for yourself, and fall in love with your holiday of a lifetime, every time.

With over 20 years of experience, Wendy Wu Tours has mastered the art of creating exceptional, fully inclusive tours which showcase the very best of each destination.

Each tour is led by a world-class guide, who will highlight the very best of their homeland, and includes authentic cultural experiences so you are not just seeing the sights, but truly immersing yourself in local life.

Say hello to ease at sea. Ambassador’s purpose is simple: they want to inspire every guest to experience authentic cruising, effortlessly and sustainably. Passionate about protecting our oceans and destinations, their ships comply with the highest industry emission standards and there is no single-use plastic on board.

On your voyage, you will receive the warmest of welcomes from the Ambassador community as you sail upon the friendliest ships afloat.

This is a global co-operative co-owned by local partners using real local experts and guides, which supports local communities, environments and wildlife. It offers travellers quirky places to stay, activity holidays and learning experiences. Not In The Guidebooks gets travellers off the beaten track into local culture with day experiences and longer, immersive adventures.

From wild wellness breaks in Wales to painting in Portugal, sustainable adventures in Mauritius to food safaris in Brazil, this is immersive, exciting travel.

Seabourn’s five intimate ships carry guests to the heart of great cities, exclusive yacht harbours and secluded coves around the world, while two new purpose-built expedition ships will combine exhilarating adventures in remote destinations with the sophisticated amenities of the world’s finest resorts at sea.

From the luxury of all suite accommodations to complimentary fine wines and spirits, and a no tipping policy, Seabourn exemplifies the definition of travelling well.