The increasingly international city has much more to offer than just its imperial heritage. In spring, the famous Sachertorte isn't the only thing that's especially sweet about the Austrian capital.

Pulsating Vienna

Of course, it's always nice to immerse yourself in the imposing history of the Austrian capital, elegantly stroll along the Ring in the center and follow in Sisi's footsteps - after all, the garden of Schönbrunn Palace, for example, is a picturesque highlight, especially during spring, that you can never get enough of. But the Vienna of today is far more than its storied past: from cool pubs in the hip seventh district to lively nights on the popular Danube Canal to glamorous events in the city's chicest hotels, Vienna is now ruled by a young, cosmopolitan spirit.

© Michael Koenigshofer

It is noticeable that the number of inhabitants is on a steady rise and that the city is already close to the two-million mark. Today, Vienna is more vibrant, younger and more relaxed than ever before. The cliché of unfriendly Vienna is largely passé; the new generation of Viennese favors cordiality and accessibility. Culturally, the city continues to shine with its multitude of top-notch museums, concerts and plays, but casual activities such as a movie night at the iconic Gartenbaukino or festivals like the Wiener Festwochen or "Impulstanz" are always an experience.

© Getty Images

However, in recent years the Austrian capital has probably had its greatest transformation in culinary terms. A multitude of new restaurants can easily compete with the best establishments in Paris and the like - and offers a veritable smorgasbord of international cuisine that attracts gourmets from all over the world and convinces with top quality and creativity.

Where to stay

Grand Ferdinand

© provided

With its skillful blend of pomp and contemporary playfulness, probably the most unconventional hotel on Vienna's Ringstrasse precisely reflects the city's young spirit. The restaurant "Meissl & Schadn" serves one of the best Schnitzels in town. 

Grand Ferdinand
Schubert ring 10-12
Tel.: +43 1 91880
Web: grandferdinand.com
Price: doubles from €179

Hotel Motto

© Oliver Jiszda

Parisian elegance, modern luxury and an excellent restaurant meet shopping and fun in the sixth district. 

Hotel Motto
Mariahilfer Street 71A
Tel.: +43 1 5814500
Web: hotelmotto.com
Price: doubles from €216

Where to eat

&flora

©Michael Koenigshofer

The in-house restaurant of the new "Hotel Gilbert" is a relaxed brasserie, where high-quality international cuisine invites to family style meals. Top: the extensive breakfast offer for late risers on weekends.

&flora
Breite G. 9
Tel.:  +43 1 5231345100
Web: undflora.at

Restaurant Apron

©Lukas-Kirchgasser

With an open show kitchen and modern interior, the gourmet restaurant in the "Hotel am Konzerthaus" presents its upscale (and award-winning) interpretation of Austrian classics made from seasonal ingredients not far from Vienna's Stadtpark. 

Restaurant Apron
Am Heumarkt 35,
Tel.: +43 1 9074747
Web: restaurant-apron.at