Why is Vienna the Perfect City to Begin Your International Trip?

You've just traveled a number of hours that are inconceivable to wrap your mind around. You're unsure what time it is, what day it is and you're more than likely hankering for some real food that hasn't been frozen, reheated and unsealed from a plastic wrap.

As you stumble through baggage claim surrounded by your cloud of travel, there's no better feeling than to be greeted by a city that presents the essence of the European vibe. You are looking for Vienna, Austria.

My very first recommendation when landing after international travel is to find your hotel immediately. Have your plan already set, regarding whether you will be taking public transportation, taxi or a shuttle. The less decisions you have to make when landing in a foreign country, the better. Once checked into your hotel, take a five minute shower to rinse off the grime of the trip. Without allowing yourself to think about even sitting on your hotel bed for a second that is calling your name, run out the door with one goal only; find Stephansplatz.

There you will be greeted by the monstrosity of the Cathedral, Stephansdom. There isn't a better way to be welcomed to Europe then by a 12th Century gothic style cathedral. If you are truly feeling revived by the fresh euro vibes that have permeated your being, head to the South tower to climb the 343 winding, narrow steps to the top for a view you won't regret.

After checking the real life stair master off your list, you are ready to conquer the city and lose track of all time; which shouldn't be too hard to accomplish considering you're still trying to grasp the concept of your new time zone.

Wienershcnitzel is a must have in this city, and will certainly have you leaving your memories of airplane food far behind. Even a hollowed out baguette stuffed with a sausage from a street vendor will do more than just satisfy your cravings.

Vienna By Fahhrad

What is the best way to explore cities? By bicycle. And Vienna makes this activity very doable. There are several bike stations around the city where the only requirement is a simple registration online or at the stations. Then, your first hour is free and only one euro after that! There is no denying German efficiency in this one.

By bike, you can buzz around the capital of Austria, well marked with bicycle lanes, in awe of all of the beautiful parks tucked in between extravagant historical buildings like the Town Hall (Rathaus), the National Library, Hofburg, Imperial Palace and the Opera House. Prepare to be continually amazed..

Check out this site for more information on bike rentals: Vienna by Bike

The tourist center is located by the Opera House and where you can find knowledgable tourist guides of all kinds, (free or by charge) if you desire to dive deep into the history of the city.

And make sure you don't leave out Schonnbrunn Palace, the Austrian Versaille of Paris. You can get lost in the gardens, hang out with the animals in the oldest zoo in the world and tour how the Hasburg's lived in a 1400 room palace with their 13 children.

Home to Sigmund Freud, known as "the city of dreams", and also known to be "the city of music"; the European Union's largest city is a great starting destination to jump into euro culture. You will be fulfilled wandering the streets with talented street performers, cobblestone lanes lined with shopping potential to meet all of your desires along with delicious schnitzel, sausages and apfelstrudel to fill your belly. You will be crawling into your bed at the end of the day full, exhausted, satisfied yet energized to embark on the rest of your European adventure that awaits you the following days.

Eat like a local:

Schnitzel, potatoes, and apfelstrudel..the staples of a good Austrian meal. A great place to satisfy each of these without having to wander far from the center is Lubella's. Equipped with a very friendly staff, this restaurant is a great first stop for your first taste of schnitzel for a reasonable price! Located a few streets over from the Opera House, Fuerichgasse 1, fill up here before going to catch a walking tour of the city!

If you're looking for a fresh vibe, great terrace and cool eats head to Neur Market 8A. There you will find Chestnut Restaurant. It's right in the heart of the city, one block from Stephansplatz. The food is fresh, perfectly prepared and delicious!