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Vienna: Know Before You Go Part of the Places of a Lifetime series from Traveler magazine

Local experts recommend books, music, and films that give you a feel for the city. Also: travel basics, the best websites and local media, cultural tips, recipes, advice on shopping for local handicrafts, and walking tours of the city.

Photo: Stadtpark
In Vienna’s central park, Stadtpark, a statue honors Austrian composer Johann Strauss the Younger, known as the "Waltz King."
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The Basics
Nuts-and-bolts information to plan your trip, plus a checklist of essentials to include when you pack.
Get the Basics

Cultural Tips
Cultural dos and don’ts, plus a handy phrase book that introduces you to the language and local argot.
Learn Vienna Cultural Tips

Books
Great reading that provides a sense of the city, from the Traveler online Ultimate Travel Library.
Get a Reading List

Music
Compilations and classic songs that put you in mind of the city, from our city playlist.
Experience the Sounds of Vienna

Movies and TV Shows
Movies and television programs that capture the atmosphere of the city.
Get Movie and TV Show List

Recipes
A sampling of signature regional dishes, with complete instructions for preparation.

Links and Media
Our favorite Web links and the best local media.
Get Links

Authentic Shopping Guide
The best local handicrafts and artisanal items, from our online worldwide Authentic Shopping Guide.
View Shopping List

Walking Tours
Three select walks that reveal the best of the city.

Vienna Multimedia

Know Before You Go: Vienna

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My Vienna

Read how an interest in Sigmund Freud first brought writer Frank Tallis to Vienna—and how the city’s unique brew of coffeehouses and intellectual excitement brings him back.

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Best of Vienna: Hotels

Vienna offers rooms for both the budget traveler and those who want to feel decadent. If you want history to surround your stay, choose a former monastery or palace.

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Country Profile: Austria

Bordering eight countries in Europe's center, Austria is mountainous in the south and west. Fertile lowlands in the east are part of the Danube River basin.

All About Vienna

All Places of a Lifetime

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