Vienna

return flights from Stansted using Air Berlin
(I travelled from Bratislava by coach using Slovak Lines).

Only an hour from Bratislava is the capital of Austria, Vienna (€12 return). You could take the train to Vienna, but the bus is cheaper, and you can get an open return ticket, so you can come back whenever you like during the day.

You will notice how erie the border between Slovakia and Austria is. This was one of the most dangerous places in Europe during the cold war. You will also notice the difference between the high residential skyscrapers of Slovakia and the "ski lodge" type houses of East Austria.

When you arrive at the bus station, head towards the U-Bahn station Reumannplatz (about 5 minute walk). From here, get a 24hour ticker (€5), and start exploring.

A good starting point is Stephanplatz, the centre of the city. Here is Vienna's main cathedral, Stephansdom.


Stephansdom.

Have a walk around Stephanplatz. You will enjoy hearing the works of Mozart and Beethoven coming from the cafés, or the horse & carts offering rides for overinflated prices.

Head back onto the U-Bahn towards Karlsplatz. Here is Vienna's finest example of a Baroque church, called Karls-kirche.


Karls-kirche.

From Karlsplatz, head back onto the U-Bahn towards Schönbrunn. You can find here Schlöss Schönbrunn, which is a former Palace during the days of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. During the winter months, there is a lovely market here, selling allsorts of gifts, wurst and mulled wine (entrance €9).


Schlöss Schönbrunn.

Once you've enjoyed the atmosphere of the Palace, and perhaps had a mug or two of mulled wine, head back onto the U-Bahm, heading towards Donauinsel. Walk through the modern UNO-city complex. You will arrive at Donauturm, the former TV tower of Vienna, which is now a 252m observation tower (tickets to top €5).


The Vienna Donauturm.

Once at the top, you will witness fantastic views over the city, including the Millennium Tower, the tallest enclosed building in Central Europe.


The View from Donauturm.

From here, head back onto the U-Bahn towards Pratersturn. A 5min walk from the station is Prater Park, Vienna's famous theme park. Also here is the main attraction of the park, the Riesenrad (ferris wheel). Tickets cost €7.50 for a 20min ride.


The Riesenrad at Prater Park.

A nice way to finish your Vienna trip is by heading back to Stephanplatz. Try one of the gorgeous Apfel Strüdels in one of the cafés, whilst enjoying the fine view of Stephansdom lit up at night.


Stephansdom at Night.

So if you're in Bratislava, and want to head West for the day, or if you just fancy a city trip deep in Central Europe, say Guten Tag to Vienna!