Go beyond Vienna's musical heritage to explore these little known gems

Vienna is a beautiful city – rich in history, architecture and natural beauty. That aside, it has a fantastic public transport system, food and coffee. More often than not, people visiting this city “do” the regular things like visiting Palaces and cathedrals, eating schnitzel or watching an opera…

But besides the old favourites, there is so much to do and see in Vienna.

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Grinzing

Once upon a time considered to be Vienna’s outskirts, today this is a very popular spot for day trippers eager for a different view of Vienna. Well connected (Bus 38A from Heiligenstadt on U4) and full of adventure opportunities. You can get off at Grinzing and walk up to Kahlenberg for brilliant views of the city of Vienna. Visit the old church, have a cup of coffee and generally enjoy the spectacular scenery. Better still, walk through one of the many vineyards covering the hill.

Zentralfriedof (Central Cemetery)

One of the largest cemeteries in the world, covering over 2.5 sq kilometer area, this uniquely wooded area has some of Austria’s renowned residents including Beethoven, Strauss, Brahma, Mozart… It’s so huge that you might be required to ride a horse cart or take the bus inside it! Yes, there is a bus that runs inside the cemetery! The tombstones are unique and very interesting. None of that creepy -graveyard things here. Interestingly, locals who come to pay their visits, often end up having a picnic inside the cemetery.

Cafe Central

Some greats, including Sigmund Freud, Adolf Hitler, Vladimir Lenin have visited this spot. Cafe Central is about 140 years old. A good way to spend time drinking coffee. Viennese coffee culture is vibrant, so why a cuppa in a spectacular setting? Remember this place is always full – so you might have to wait a bit before being seated…but its worth it.

Hundertwasser House

This uniquely coloured and shaped house is a huge tourist draw. People live within these walls – although you are not allowed entry into this establishment. Can be easily done in half a day. Get on Tram No 1 from in front of the Opera House, get off at Radetzkyplatz and follow the brown boards to the House.

Stadtpark

Popular for its many statues, especially busts of composers like Franz Schubert and Anton Bruckner and Johann Strauss Memorial, this pretty park even has a little river running through it. Plenty of restaurants in the park and large green spaces to relax.