| Less well known as a romantic destination than the | | | | Vienna is great to visit in winter when the streets are |
| somewhat clichéd Paris - the Austrian capital of | | | | covered in soft snow: the city becomes a glorious |
| Vienna is one of the most beautiful, sophisticated and | | | | Yuletide parade of colour and music in which you can |
| vibrant cities of the world. Its blend of historical and | | | | enjoy Gluwein from the Christmas markets stalls and |
| cultural heritage mixed with majestic boulevards, | | | | take in the festive street spirit. And if you get cold, |
| medieval streets and ornate courtyards, radiates old | | | | step into the Schmetterlinghaus (Butterfly house) - a |
| world charm and magic. | | | | dreamy enclave containing more than 150 different |
| But it's not just architecture that makes Vienna a prime | | | | species of butterflies, which maintains a cosy |
| spot for a romantic getaway; the cobbled streets are | | | | temperature of 26C throughout the year. |
| lined with superb Viennese coffee houses, from where | | | | To inject some real romance into your stay, why not |
| you can try an Austrian fruit tea and the city's famous | | | | take a room in one of Vienna's grand hotels such as |
| pastries. Wander onwards and you'll find cosmopolitan | | | | Hotel Sacher, with its blissfully romantic décor |
| shops, museums and fantastic restaurants to wine and | | | | such as white and gold rococo furniture, pink marble |
| dine in. Try the traditional Wiener schnitzel or beef | | | | bathrooms and views of the opera house? Or, how |
| goulash, both staple dishes in Vienna, or perhaps grab | | | | about a stay in Vienna's first boutique hotel - the Hotel |
| a Wiener from a Wustelstand as you walk past. | | | | Das Treist - with its laid back élan, colourful |
| For the evenings, why not sample an opera, ballet or | | | | interior and chic Italian restaurant? |
| concert? Vienna boasts a proud musical heritage and | | | | Getting to this romantic Austrian paradise is quick and |
| has produced a number of renowned artistic geniuses, | | | | easy with cheap flights to Vienna from London taking |
| such as Schubert, Brahms and Mozart. There are | | | | just over two hours. So if you're looking for a romantic |
| hundreds of bars, clubs and music venues across the | | | | destination to woo your partner, Vienna - the city of |
| city offering countless opportunities to enjoy classical | | | | high culture and old world charm - is the perfect place |
| concerts - but make sure you book in advance, as | | | | to visit. |
| performances at major venues sell out fast! | | | | |