A Winter Getaway to Prague and Vienna
Prague and Vienna are the two most beautiful and musically rich cities in Europe. From some renowned opera houses to musical theater, you can find arrays of activities to indulge in these European getaways.
As long as you are dressed for the occasion, you can easily for go the European winter. You can also compensate with lots of mulled wine and hot chocolate on your trip!
Let us see how you can make the best out of your winter getaway in Prague and Vienna.
Getaway in Prague
Did you know Prague is known as the ‘City of Thousands Spires’ because of its beautiful cathedrals and pointy spires?
The Czech capital is home to many different historical and natural wonders. No doubt, the city is placed as an important UNESCO World Heritage Site.
One of the major attractions of Prague is the Gothic architecture, Baroque-style landmarks, and medieval churches and settlements. Millions of tourists visit Prague every year to witness its historical landmarks and taste the traditional cuisines such as Vepřo-knedlo-zelo, Chlebíčky (an open-faced sandwich, Smažený sýr, Trdelník (chimney cake), and local beer.
Visiting Prague during winter can be more fun because this place becomes more magical. Snowfall is relatively common throughout the winter, but everything will remain open, so do not worry about missing out on visiting sites.
One advantage of visiting Prague in winter is that you can avoid the crowd.
Reasons to Visit Prague
Here are few reasons why you should visit Prague.
1. Explore Old Town Square
The Old Town Square in the Old Town quarter of Prague remains the highlight of this trip.
This marketplace has been a significant hub of the city for millennia.
You would find the famous Astronomical Clock dating back to the 15th Century, Townhall, Rococo Kinsky Palace, Tyn Cathedral, and Church of St Nicholas.
If you want to admire the traditional architecture of Prague, this is your place!
2. Charles Bridge
Charles Bridge is probably the most famous landmark in the city of Prague.
The bridge was commissioned in 1357 by Charles IV. Today, the old stone-arch bridge attracts thousands of tourists every year.
Witness the grand Vitava River from the bridge while admiring the gothic skyline of the city.
Another attraction of the bridge is the 30 striking statues, of which the most famous one is of St John of Nepomuk.
Do not forget to touch the statue as a ritual to bring good luck.
3. Prague Castle
Pražský Hrad or Prague Castle is the 9th Century palaces that are currently the President’s official office.
The former castle of Bohemian Kings located on the left bank of Vitava River remains famous for its collection of Crown Jewels, relics of Bohemian kings, and Christian relics.
Prague Castle is also the largest coherent castle complex globally, with an area of almost 70,000 m².
4. Cruising at the Vltava
The river cruise down the Vltava is one of the biggest attractions of Prague.
The 60-min cruise takes you along some of the medieval buildings and monuments in the city.
Taking a single cruise may cost from €12 to €30 and includes either lunch or dinner, depending on what time you embark on the cruise.
Along the journey, you will also get to enjoy some light jazz music.
There is no wrong time to visit Prague, but a winter getaway can be a unique experience because there is no crowd at this time of the year.
Getaway in Vienna
Vienna is the most happening city in Austria because it is home to some of the most famous historical and cultural monuments, operas, shopping places, and Viennese cuisines.
The attractions, atmosphere, and culture are the best in Vienna. During the time of winter, this city turns into a mesmerizing wonderland.
Thanks to its concert halls, music festivals, and operas, this medieval European city is heaven for classical music lovers.
Reasons to Visit Prague
Here are few reasons why you should visit Vienna.
- Schönbrunn Palace
This 17th Century Baroque-style palace is the primary stop in the itinerary.
The former summer residence of Habsburg rulers, an imperial tour of the place will allow you to see the grand staterooms, private apartments, and the famed Hall of Mirrors.
The palace has over 1400 rooms, so visiting each room will not be possible in a short tour, but you can take a grand tour of few important places inside the palace complex.
2. Music Destinations
Vienna is the city of classical music. At one point in time, the town was hosting both Mozart and Beethoven.
This city has remained a place for great musicians for ages and continues to do so even today.
Vienna State Opera House, with its 1709 seat capacity, hosts some of the most sought-after performances every year.
If you’re lucky, you can catch one! Otherwise, look for other music getaways such as Porgy & Bess club that is popular for Jazz.
Jazzland, which opened in 1972, is another popular place for music lovers to hang out.
Do not forget to tour the Wien Museum Mozart apartment while staying in Vienna to take a peek at the life of a great Musical Maestro!
3. Belvedere Palaces
Belvedere Palaces is another major attraction in Vienna that consists of two Baroque palaces, the Orangery and the Palace of Stables.
The former summer residence of Prince Eugene of Savoy is the best place to catch the world’s most extensive collection of Klimt’s work.
It is also home to the most incredible collection of Austrian art dating from the Middle ages, including Claude Monet, Vincent van Gogh, and Max Beckmann.
A part of belvedere museums, 21er Haus Museum, displays contemporary art by artists like Elisabetta Benassi, Jean-Marc Bustamante, and Urs Fischer.
4. A Coffee Tour
You can find both traditional and modern coffee houses in the different parts of the city.
Cafe Central and Demel are two of the traditional coffee houses famous for their elegant decor and atmosphere.
Their menu mainly boasts of Melange (like a cappuccino) and Mozart Cafe (a double espresso with whipped cream and sherry brandy on the side).
Vienna remains popular for your favorite caffeinated drink. Having a delicious cup of coffee in a traditional Viennese coffee house is a part of the local lifestyle.
5. Sugary Cuisines
Vienna is heaven for sugary eateries. Along with a traditional cup of coffee, do not forget to relish a Viennese cake or dessert.
Each café will have a magnificent display of cakes and pastries that you can choose with your coffee.
Do not forget to try Sachertorte (a Viennese chocolate cake), an apple strudel, or a Kaiserschmarrn (a fluffy shredded pancake).
Conclusion
Visiting these two grand European cities in winter guarantees the best holiday ever. Along with witnessing the Christmas market, you could see some popular tourist destinations with a zero crowd.
Enjoy the sights, sounds, and tastes of the two most beautiful European cities at the most beautiful time of the year.
Get in touch with www.RickPerdian.com, your music travel consultant, to make this an upcoming trip.
Accommodations include the five-star Art Nouveau Palace Hotel in Prague, the four-star Royal Ricc Hotel in Brno, and the four-start Hotel Am Parkring in Vienna. This exclusive tour is limited to six travelers.
