Frankfurt, Germany - Vienna, Austria 14 day trip

About Frankfurt

Frankfurt Am Main, less than 40 km from the Rhine, is first and foremost the financial center of Germany. The Frankfurt Stock Exchange, more than 400 years old, was established in 1585. Frankfurt’s modern skyline with its many skyscrapers is what gave it the moniker: "Mainhatten” which is obviously a portmanteau of the two words (Main, the river and New York’s Manhattan). These tall buildings makes for a most impressive modern “skyscraper skytline” with its own “twin towers” of the Deutsche Bank, the Eurotower etc.  Occasionally, there is a (free) Skyscraper Festival – so keep your eyes and ears open and perhaps there will be one this year or next year!

Frankfurt Am Main, less than 40 km from the Rhine, is first and foremost the financial center of Germany. The Frankfurt Stock Exchange, more than 400 years old, was established in 1585. Frankfurt’s modern skyline with its many skyscrapers is what gave it the moniker: "Mainhatten” which is obviously a portmanteau of the two words (Main, the river and New York’s Manhattan). These tall buildings makes for a most impressive modern “skyscraper skytline” with its own “twin towers” of the Deutsche Bank, the Eurotower etc.  Occasionally, there is a (free) Skyscraper Festival – so keep your eyes and ears open and perhaps there will be one this year or next year!

Messe The city is known for the Messe Frankfurt, (Messe is German for Industrial Fair) which is the world's largest trade fair, congress and event organizer with its own exhibition grounds. In 1240 the Emperor Frederick II launched the first “Autumn Fair” and they’ve never looked back! The Main Tower Like most major cities in the world, Frankfurt too has its Tower and observation deck  (Aussichtsplattform) on Neue Mainzer Str. 52–58. This is one of the best places to get an amazing view of this fascinating city and capture that “Kodak Moment” (there is a fee to pay in order to get to the roof).   Goethe House  Johan Wolfgang von Goethe was born in this house on Grosser Hirschgraben. As we all know he was a famous writer, poet, scientist, statesman – he was a real polymath. It was here that he wrote the first draft of what was his most famous book “Faust”. During WWII, the original Goethe House was bombed but was eventually rebuilt. The Goethe House and the Deutsches Romantik-Museum which has a permanent exhibition about Goethe’s early years are next to each other. St Paul's Church (Paulskirche Church)  Once the main Evangelical Lutheran Church of Frankfurt, stands St Paul's Church which was built in 1833 on Paulsplatz 11. However today it is an exhibition hall or a national assembly hall. A plaque on the outer wall commemorates the visit of the American President J.F. Kennedy to the church in 1963. It was on this visit, at the height of the Cold War, that he gave a speech in Berlin with the famous phrase "I am a Berliner" (Ich bin ein Berliner). City Hall (Römer) in the Old Town of Frankfurt on Römerberg plaza you can visit Römer, as the city hall is called. The Rathaus (city hall) was “put together” in the early 1400’s by combining two medieval houses, named "Römer" and "Goldener Schwan", to become one town hall.  Together with the covered bridge called the Seufzerbrücke (the "Bridge of Sighs"- mimicking the “real” Bridge of Sighs in Venice) they are definite, impressive landmarks. In front of these buildings, in the middle of the square is the Fountain of Justice (The Gerechtigkeitsbrunnen) from the mid 1500’s.  Don’t miss the Ostzeile area with six half-timbered houses which were restored to their former selves after being heavily bombed during WWII. Secret:  You can take time out for a meal in a restaurant called the Haus Wertheym  which is housed in one such half-timber house that remained intact and unscathed. The Frankfurt Cathedral, Roman Catholic - Imperial Cathedral of Saint Bartholomew (German: Kaiserdom Sankt Bartholomäus): A narrow pedestrian street leads you from the Town Hall towards the Dom Cathedral.  All these the buildings were also restored, having been totally ruined during WWII. The interior of the cathedral is impressive and if you can climb the to the top from the observation deck you will have your “Kodak Moment” – a spectacular view of the Old Town The Opera House The Frankfurt Opera’s impressive building is easily accessible by public transport and is located near the city's green ring. The original building was built in the late 1800’s and had the honor of Mozart’s Don Giovanni “opening” Frankfurt’s first major opera/concert hall. Unfortunately, this building as well as many treasured older buildings was destroyed in WWII and it took almost 40 years to reconstruct an updated, contemporary concert hall. Shopping and food: Finally, we can relax on Zeil Street along the pedestrian mall near the Old City where there is a wide selection of department stores, shops, restaurants and cafes. We recommend that you take this opportunity to taste and enjoy the well-known Wurstchen Sausage and for dessert to order the Bethmannchen marzipan cookies. Museums If it is icons that are of interest to you, then a visit the Ikonenmuseum Museum of Icons is a must! The high-quality exhibition is presented here for the Aficionado who will appreciate the exciting and extensive collection of diverse items.  This is one of several special and unique museums on the bank opposite the Old City. Frankfurt's old bridge takes you across and the museums are a short walk away on the Sachsenhauser street parallel to the River Main Money Museum of the Deutsche Bundesbank  Geldmuseum der Deutschen Bundesbank: Everybody loves money and here is an opportunity to find out everything you ever wanted to know about this currency. Explore the world of money! In this fascinating museum, you will find the answers to any questions you have about money. It is entertaining and educational! Exhibits, media stations, interactive games, answers to questions like: How is cash produced? How does monetary policy work and what exactly does a central bank do? What role does money play in a globalised world? You will get answers to your questions as well participate in exciting hands-on exhibits and media stations. Suitable for all ages, the exhibition is both in German and English. “It’s good to have money and the things that money can buy, but it’s good, too, to check up once in a while and make sure that you haven’t lost the things that money can’t buy.” George LorimerSecret: There is no fee, free entrance Note: During WWII hundreds of bombs were dropped on Frankfurt and as a result most of the “original” Old Town was wiped out and had to be rebuilt. 

About Bacharach

Bacharach is a town in the Mainz-Bingen district in Rhineland-Palatinate, Germany. Above the town looms Stahleck Castle (Burg Stahleck), nowadays a youth hostel. Today Bacharach thrives on tourism and wine from Bacharach is still enjoying international popularity

Bacharach is a town in the Mainz-Bingen district in Rhineland-Palatinate, Germany. Above the town looms Stahleck Castle (Burg Stahleck), nowadays a youth hostel. Today Bacharach thrives on tourism and wine from Bacharach is still enjoying international popularity

About Heidelberg

What does an Apothecary Museum, a world-renown wine cellar and an enormous jester statue have in common? We won’t leave you in suspense and tell you straight-forward – all this and more is what makes Heidelberg city an extremely popular tourist destination! Located on the Neckar River, it combines old-world charm with modernism. People are left in awe of The Old Town and the University and the ancient library, as well as the historic 14th century Heidelberg Castle which overlooks the city and are enthralled when they tour the Artillery Garden, surrounded by cannon posts. People are fascinated when they visit the wine cellar, known as the Heidelberg Tun, which has the world’s biggest wine barrel built in 1751 and are amused by the well-known statue Perkeo the Jester.  In addition to its historical and cultural attractions, Heidelberg offers an exciting cultural scene, with theatres, art galleries, numerous museums as well as incredible landscapes of hills, lakes and forests. Heidelberg has it all!

What does an Apothecary Museum, a world-renown wine cellar and an enormous jester statue have in common? We won’t leave you in suspense and tell you straight-forward – all this and more is what makes Heidelberg city an extremely popular tourist destination! Located on the Neckar River, it combines old-world charm with modernism. People are left in awe of The Old Town and the University and the ancient library, as well as the historic 14th century Heidelberg Castle which overlooks the city and are enthralled when they tour the Artillery Garden, surrounded by cannon posts. People are fascinated when they visit the wine cellar, known as the Heidelberg Tun, which has the world’s biggest wine barrel built in 1751 and are amused by the well-known statue Perkeo the Jester.  In addition to its historical and cultural attractions, Heidelberg offers an exciting cultural scene, with theatres, art galleries, numerous museums as well as incredible landscapes of hills, lakes and forests. Heidelberg has it all!

It was here that the prestigious, secular Heidelberg University aka Ruperto Carola, was established in 1386 under the auspices of Pope Urban VI, making it the oldest university in Germany.  It is known as being one of Europe’s leading comprehensive research universities, as well as being   renowned for its Faculty of Medicine. The impressive library, known as the Heidelberg University Library (Universitätsbibliothek Heidelberg), includes millions of manuscripts and books, many of them unique and ancient, as well as a collection of maps and other media such as videos and micro films. The history of the city is filled with fascinating events. It was a favorite city for counts and electors who were responsible for the construction of magnificent buildings – especially the famous Heidelberg Palace which sits on the northern part of The Königstuhl summit which allows for views of the city as well as the Neckar River. The construction started in 1200 AD but suffered much during the 500 years that passed until its destruction in 1693 by the army of “The Sun King” Louis XIV. Basically, it was due to the fact that he felt he was entitled to inherit the castle, as being Monsieur Philippe I, the older brother of Duke of Orleans.  A tour of the castle is actually a tour of a courtyard with a group of several buildings around it. TIP: If you’re not taking the funicular and plan on coming with a car, it is best to park in one of the lots and follow the signs to the castle.  On the other hand, if you are taking the funicular in the city then get off at the Schloss Station.  At the lower station you can buy a combined ticket for the train and entrance to the castle.  Suggested route: Walk straight past the ornate Elizabeth’s Gate into the Artillery Garden which is surrounded by cannon posts and which offer beautiful views of the palace façade. It is here that you can take a “Kodak Moment” from what was once a five-story tall turret but was later destroyed by an explosion from gunpowder that was stored within. Crossing over you’ll find ourselves in an impressive Renaissance style courtyard full of wall sculptures and then continue to the Heidelberg Tun - the wine cellar. It has the world’s biggest wine barrel built in 1751 and large barrels that most probably had never been filled with wine.You can climb the stairs to the top of the largest barrel (which can hold 220,000 liters) and dance on the dance floor.  The well-known statue Perkeho the jester (whose real name was Clemens Pankert) is waiting at the bottom of the stairs. Legend has it that he drank wine on a daily basis, until one day he accidently drank water – and died. He is the unofficial mascot of the city and area. Then from the winery you’ll ascend to the observation deck for an amazing view.   Upon returning to the courtyard go to the building on the left and don’t miss a visit to the German Apothecary Museum which is right there; included in the price. You will see this impressive collection with over 20,000 objects on display including different kinds of receptacles, instruments and raw materials that were used in the past and some of them to this day, for concocting medicines. As well, you will gain interesting insights into the history of pharmaceutics. Tip: Do use the audio guide so you will understand the history of the museum.Returning to the castle pass through a small beautifully designed gate that was constructed by Fredrick V, in honor of his marriage to Elizabeth Stewart in 1615. Legend has it that the gate was built in one night as a birthday present to his wife. Descending from here you’ll get back to the city by funicular, or by foot, to a route that will lead you from the town hall plaza and the Holy Ghost Church on Market Square (Marktplatz), one of the oldest squares in Heidelberg. Continue to the pedestrian area and then on to the university. Pay close attention to the gabled House of Knight St. George, architecturally typical of the styles of all the houses in Heidelberg before its destruction in 1688. It is opposite the Church of the Holy Spirit (Hauptstr.178), an exciting area for wandering between shops and the townhouses.  If you’re interested you can visit the university and the ancient library. Afterwards you’ll cross the old bridge, officially called Karl-Theodor Bridge, which was built in 1788. There is a great view from which to take your photos of Heidelberg’s skyline of church spires, the castle and the houses on the river front.  Located at the west end of the Bridge Gate is the “Bridge Monkey” and legend says if you touch the hand then you will return to the city and if you touch the mirror, you’ll become rich and if you touch the mice next to the monkey you will be blessed with many children!  Good Luck and may you get whatever you wish for! In the university quarter of Heidelberg, on the bend of the Neckar River you will find the Heidelberg Zoo (Zoologische Garten Heidelberg). You have an option to join an organized tour, an opportunity to feed some animals and take a break in one of the cafes or restaurants in this corner of paradise. The zoo is home to about 2000 animals including polar bears, giant turtles, gorillas, elephants, leopards, flamingos and many other diverse species. Easily accessible, you can visit about 2,000 animals including polar bears, giant turtles, gorillas, elephants, leopards, flamingos and many other diverse species. Easily accessible, it’s truly one of the most pleasant and charming zoos enjoyed not only by children but very much so by adults as well. Not too big – not too small, but just right! If you’d like to sate your appetite with an authentic regional dish, just try the Schweinshaxe, which is pork shank served with potato slices and includes, as per tradition, sauerkraut. Another typical dish for the region is: Spätzle; (pasta or dumpling made with eggs) typically served as a side dish with meat and gravy dishes which is very popular in the restaurants throughout the city. Typical wines of the region are red and white wines from the various grape varieties: Riesling, Pinot Noir, Gewurztraminer.Bon Appetit!

About Freiburg Im Breisgau

Freiburg im Breisgau is a university city in the Black Forest in southwest Germany. The name from the 14th century, comes from the German meaning “Free Town”. The Old City is “air-conditioned” by the Freiburg Bächle (water-filled channels, streamlets) fed by the Dreisam River which  rapidly  flow down the streets, making the Freiburg Bächle one of the city's best known landmarks. 

Freiburg im Breisgau is a university city in the Black Forest in southwest Germany. The name from the 14th century, comes from the German meaning “Free Town”. The Old City is “air-conditioned” by the Freiburg Bächle (water-filled channels, streamlets) fed by the Dreisam River which  rapidly  flow down the streets, making the Freiburg Bächle one of the city's best known landmarks. 

The Cathedral: They began building the Freiburg im Breisgau Cathedral (called the Freiburg Minster) at the beginning of the 13th century (Romanesque style) and completed the Cathedral Gothic style around 1230 with a 116-meter Gothic tower, which is a landmark and is considered by many experts as one of the most memorable and exclusive spires on this planet! As was the custom then, stonemasons were asked to add sculptures and gargoyles on the cathedral’s roof. If it is a chuckle you’re looking for then look up, way up and you will see the “mooning gargoyle” of Freiburg Minster. According to the legend that has been passed on over the decades, a resentful stonemason who wanted revenge for not getting his salary, created this grotesque and placed him so that water would be spilling onto the streets from the opposite end of his body facing the city council building. Note: Gargoyles were created as a means of making sure water did not collect on rooftops and would spill off through the gargoyle’s mouth onto the streets. Ahh – the bells of the Freiburg Minster! There are 16-19 bells on the tower including the “oldest bell” which weighs more than 3 tons. If you are feeling “athletic”, you can get to the top of the church for a magnificent view of the Old Town by going up 330 stairs.  Secret: The ringing of the bells are on specific days and times: Thursday evening; Friday at 11:00 am; Saturday evenings; on November 27- to commemorate the air raid of Freiburg on that day in 1944. The Historical Merchants' Hall (Historisches Kaufhaus) went through a few changes over the centuries, but today’s building is as it was back in the mid 1500’s - eye-catching with its bright reddish-brown  façade on the exterior and the opulent halls in the Merchants building, which are only open for special events. The most popular and famous is the Kaisersaal (Emperors' Hall). On the face of the building there are four statues of kings from the Habsburg house, with spires on each side, also draw your attention to the building. The halls are not open at all times, only when there are special events and the most popular one is the Kaisersaal (Emperors' Hall). Secret: The original statues are stored away for protection from the elements and the ones displayed on the walls are replicas. Once there were five –now there are two! We’re referring to the City Gates: The two medieval gates that survived are called the Martinstor and the Schwabentor. The latter is also a unique museum holding the Zinnfigurenklause (Tin Figure Cabinet) with about ten thousand small figures cast from tin in a setting of about 21 dioramas that tell the history of Baden and the area. When progress “reared its head”, there was need for more advance public transportation and the Martinstor Gate was to be removed in order to make room for an electric tram. The mayor of the time, Lord Mayor Otto Winterer of Freiburg, insisted on keeping it intact and actually built on top of it, thus tripling its height and eventually made a large opening for the tram to pass through.   The Rathausplatz is a lovely and charming square. The administrative center is located here, with the Old Town Hall and the New Town Hall next to it and the governing bodies housed in both buildings. There is a bridge which you can cross to get from one to the other. However, the New Town Hall is actually older than the Old Town Hall. Originally, the New Town Hall was not used as a Town Hall, so when they eventually decided to use this building as such, it became ‘the New Town Hall’!   A large fountain with a statue of Berthold Schwarz stands in front of the Town Halls. Who is Berthold Schwarz?  The Germans claimed he is an alchemist who invented gunpowder. However, according to our research, he probably never even existed and gunpowder was probably invented in China! Nevertheless, the Germans wanted to be known as the inventors of gunpowder, so they came up with this creative idea, perhaps because Schwarzpulver is German for gunpowder. So there it is and nobody seems to care! Muenstermarkt (The Farmers Market) – in the Old City, selling mostly flowers, produce and crafts. True to this day, the market is open daily except for Sunday and only in the mornings. Go, enjoy and buy! Alter Friedhof (Old Cemetery): This old cemetery from the 17th century is one of the oldest German cemeteries, preserved as a whole in a park-like atmosphere. There are fascinating, artistic and interesting tombstones of people from all types of lifestyles. Schlossberg Hill that is a part of the Black Forest just east of the Old Town is a wonderful area for small hikes and walks culminating with marvelous views for that “Kodak moment”.Moreover, you cannot leave Freiburg without eating the skinny, reddish-brownish, 35 cm long red sausage (Lange Rote Sausage) lovingly called by the locals “the Münsterplatzwurst, Queen of the Wurst”. Secret: If you don’t want to give yourself away as a tourist, do not fold the sausage in half. The locals eat their sausage with both ends hanging out of the roll! One more thing - don’t count your calories! Make sure you find time to relax in one of the lovely cafes and enjoy the famous Black Forest Cake (Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte) which is made up of layers of chocolate, cherries (and a little cherry liqueur)  with real, dairy whipped cream, decorated with chocolate shavings and cherries. Wicked!  Recipe available upon request. We cannot leave Freiburg without at least mentioning Europa-Park, which is second only to Disneyland in Paris. It is the biggest theme park in Germany, about 230 acres, and is about 40 km south-west of Freiburg Im Breisgau. You can imagine the wild and innovative rides and attractions you can find here! Besides all the attractions of an amusement park there is a fairly new water park known as Rulantica, a movie theatre and shows - entertainment for adults and children. One can also make arrangements for on-site transportation and accommodations, from five-star hotels to campgrounds.

About Lucerne

Since the city straddles the Reuss River, it has a number of bridges, the most famous is the Chapel Bridge. Old Town Lucerne is located north of the Reuss River, and has several fine half-timber structures with painted fronts. Remnants of the old town walls exist, complete with 8 tall watch towers. The twin needle towers of the Church of St. Leodegar sit on a hill above the lake. Bertel Thorvaldsen's famous carving of a dying lion is found in a park just off the Lowenplatz, commemorating the hundreds of Swiss Guards who were killed during the French Revolution. The Swiss Museum of Transport is beside the lake in the northern section of the city as well as the Culture and Convention Center.

Since the city straddles the Reuss River, it has a number of bridges, the most famous is the Chapel Bridge. Old Town Lucerne is located north of the Reuss River, and has several fine half-timber structures with painted fronts. Remnants of the old town walls exist, complete with 8 tall watch towers. The twin needle towers of the Church of St. Leodegar sit on a hill above the lake. Bertel Thorvaldsen's famous carving of a dying lion is found in a park just off the Lowenplatz, commemorating the hundreds of Swiss Guards who were killed during the French Revolution. The Swiss Museum of Transport is beside the lake in the northern section of the city as well as the Culture and Convention Center.

About Fussen

Füssen is a town in Bavaria, Germany. The town is known for its violinmaking industry. Attractions in Fussen: The High Castle houses a branch gallery of the Bavarian State Collections of Paintings, which focuses on late Gothic and Renaissance works of art. The oldest fresco in Germany can be found in the crypt of St Mang's Basilica, It dates back to about the year 980. St Mang's Feast Day (6 September) is commemorated with a Holy Mass followed by a procession by torchlight through the old part of the city. During the week of the Saint's Feast a special 'Magnus Wine' is sold, with only 500 bottles produced.

Füssen is a town in Bavaria, Germany. The town is known for its violinmaking industry. Attractions in Fussen: The High Castle houses a branch gallery of the Bavarian State Collections of Paintings, which focuses on late Gothic and Renaissance works of art. The oldest fresco in Germany can be found in the crypt of St Mang's Basilica, It dates back to about the year 980. St Mang's Feast Day (6 September) is commemorated with a Holy Mass followed by a procession by torchlight through the old part of the city. During the week of the Saint's Feast a special 'Magnus Wine' is sold, with only 500 bottles produced.

About Oberammergau

Oberammergau is a municipality in the district of Garmisch-Partenkirchen, in Bavaria, Germany. The town is famous for its production of a Passion Play, its woodcarvers, and the NATO School.

Oberammergau is a municipality in the district of Garmisch-Partenkirchen, in Bavaria, Germany. The town is famous for its production of a Passion Play, its woodcarvers, and the NATO School.

About Munich

Munich is the capital and largest city of the German state of Bavaria. It is located on the River Isar north of the Bavarian Alps. Munich is home to many national and international authorities, major universities, major museums and theaters. Its numerous architectural attractions, international sports events, exhibitions, conferences and Oktoberfest attract considerable tourism. Since 2006, the city's motto has been "Munich loves you".

Munich is the capital and largest city of the German state of Bavaria. It is located on the River Isar north of the Bavarian Alps. Munich is home to many national and international authorities, major universities, major museums and theaters. Its numerous architectural attractions, international sports events, exhibitions, conferences and Oktoberfest attract considerable tourism. Since 2006, the city's motto has been "Munich loves you".

About Salzburg

Salzburg is the fourth largest city in Austria and is considered a “must visit” city. The fact that it is not “the biggest” city is not important in this case - size doesn’t count! It is no wonder that UNESCO recognized the Alstadt (Old Town) as a World Heritage Site. Salzburg is situated on the banks of the Salzach river which is almost 300 km long. This precious town offers a wide range of tours with exciting experiences for the visitor.

Salzburg is the fourth largest city in Austria and is considered a “must visit” city. The fact that it is not “the biggest” city is not important in this case - size doesn’t count! It is no wonder that UNESCO recognized the Alstadt (Old Town) as a World Heritage Site. Salzburg is situated on the banks of the Salzach river which is almost 300 km long. This precious town offers a wide range of tours with exciting experiences for the visitor.

Secret: (Saltzburg, literally means Salt Castle) Saltz or salz, meaning salt, is in the name because the mining of salt was a major industry since the early 1500’s and is probably what helped to put Salzburg on the map!  Note: During the Holy Roman Empire, for more than ten centuries, Salzburg was a church city-state. The days are long gone since the leader of the church and the state was the prince-archbishop. With the mountains providing a theatrical backdrop, the city's skyline is alive with turrets and domes and a clear view of the HohenSalsburg fortress. The baroque style is evident in many buildings, both ecclesiastical and secular as they were all influenced by the style of Italian architects. In January 1756, the renowned composer Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart was born in this charming town He was born and raised on 9 Getreidegasse in the Old Town and his house is now a museum. This charming little street is one of many meandering between alley houses that are decorated with unique metal signs, advertising stores, jewelry, antiques and many other kinds of shops. The Salzburg Cathedral (Salzburger Dom), built in 774, is a Roman Catholic seventeenth-century Baroque cathedral that was dedicated to two, Saints Rupert and Saint Vergilius. It was ruined in a fire and then was rebuilt in various stages, yet once completed it was then bombed in WWII and had to be reconstructed once again. Although it was overly decorated and very elaborate the Cathedral nevertheless has a serene and peaceful atmosphere which welcomes people from all over the world, from all religions. Secret: Mozart was baptized in the Salzburg Cathedral, which still has the same  baptismal basin used for Mozart. The DomQuartier museum adjacent to the cathedral is a must-see, especially for those who fawn over the baroque style. A hodgepodge of decorative items in each and every corner and items that stretch from ceiling to floor, including furniture and magnificent candelabras, art and sculpture. One can become quite an affected when viewing the decorative arts of Salzburg of the 17th and 18th centuries In Europe, the Hohensalzburg Fortress is known as one of the biggest and most impressive castles from the 11th century. The imposing Salzburg Hohensalzburg Castle, has stood for 1000 years on a hill dominating the city. As the decades passed, the castle grew and its walls were thickened and fortified, allowing for full protection for the occupants within.  Today it serves as the archbishops' museum and has a spectacular vantage viewing point for the city and the Alps. Ascent is possible on foot or in a funicular carriage (festungsbahn). In the early 1600’s the Prince-Archbishop Wolf Dietrich gifted the Mirabell Palace to his mistress Salome Alt. The gardens, which were redesigned many times over the next decades were added about 80 years later. The fountain and statues which were also added later were forever “immortalized” in the movie Sound of Music (in the scene where Julie Andrews teaches the Van Trapp Children the “Doh Reh Mi” song).Today the palace belongs to the municipality of Salzburg. Note: Do not leave this country without stopping by a traditional Viennese café and enjoying a delicious cup of coffee with the typical, yet iconic, Austrian dessert “the apfelstrudel”, with its flaky (no yeast) crust and raisins and spicey apples and sprinkled with sugar (yes originally Austrian and not German). P.S. If it is the majestic Alps you want to visit then a good place to begin is in the southern part of the mountain and hike up to the Grossglockner Peak which is the highest in this mountain range, rising to an altitude of about 4000 meters. Salzburg is about 500 km from the Alps. You can go by car, train or bus. Hellbrunn Palace (Schloss Hellbrunn) is a 17th century villa the size of a palace, just 7.5 km south towards Salzburg. Beautiful elegant landscaped gardens and expansive parks surround the palace. But the drawing card is the water games from the various trick fountains that are unique and unmatched anywhere in the world. Built by Prince-Archbishop Markus Sittikus the palace was meant for joy and entertainment. He wanted to surprise his guests and so wherever they wandered about on the grounds, they would have a “water surprises!  Today you will pass by the various audio stations which will explain each one of the attractions.Note: Open only from April until the end of October..

About Hallstatt

Hallstatt, Upper Austria, is a village in the Salzkammergut, a region in Austria. It is located near the Hallstätter See (a lake). Hallstatt is known for its production of salt, dating back to prehistoric times, and gave its name to the Hallstatt culture, a culture often linked to Celtic, Proto-Celtic, and pre-Illyrian peoples in Early Iron Age Europe, c.800–450 BC. Some of the earliest archaeological evidence for the Celts was found in Hallstatt.

Hallstatt, Upper Austria, is a village in the Salzkammergut, a region in Austria. It is located near the Hallstätter See (a lake). Hallstatt is known for its production of salt, dating back to prehistoric times, and gave its name to the Hallstatt culture, a culture often linked to Celtic, Proto-Celtic, and pre-Illyrian peoples in Early Iron Age Europe, c.800–450 BC. Some of the earliest archaeological evidence for the Celts was found in Hallstatt.

About Vienna

Everybody wants to visit Vienna. Not only is it the capital city of Austria, it is an exciting metropolis with a rich background in history, art and especially music. The city is known for its grand Ring Road, lined with impressive buildings including museums such as the Museum of Art History and the Museum of Natural History. If you want to be witness to the opulence of the Habsburg dynasty then make sure to tour the former residences of the royal family at the Schönbrunn Palace and the magnificent gardens as well as the Hofburg Palace and the Belvedere Palace, with its baroque architecture.

Everybody wants to visit Vienna. Not only is it the capital city of Austria, it is an exciting metropolis with a rich background in history, art and especially music. The city is known for its grand Ring Road, lined with impressive buildings including museums such as the Museum of Art History and the Museum of Natural History. If you want to be witness to the opulence of the Habsburg dynasty then make sure to tour the former residences of the royal family at the Schönbrunn Palace and the magnificent gardens as well as the Hofburg Palace and the Belvedere Palace, with its baroque architecture.

Vienna (Wein) has 23 districts (Wiener Gemeindebezirkein) and each district offers diverse attractions including art galleries, café, museums, palaces, restaurants etc. each with its pros and cons. Starting in 1850, as the city kept growing and including the surrounding communities the city gave them numbers for easy clarification and reference.  The 1st District (Innere Stadt) is the old town and is encircled by the Ringstrasse (The Vienna Ring Road) which is about 5 km long. It is divided into nine sections; each has a ring extension. In 2001, it was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List. There is much to see in the inner circle including St. Stephan's Cathedral (Stephansdom), Hofburg Palace, the Natural History and Art History Museum, Wiener Rathaus (Vienna City Hall) the State Opera House and much more. Did you know that there are over 100 museums in Vienna! Besides the museums there are theatres, dance and music halls, restaurants, bars, exhibitions, restaurants, bars, cafes and lots of nature trails. Renowned artists whose works are hung in museums around the world and musicians whose music is played by international symphony orchestras were from Vienna. For example - Gustav Klimt (1862-1918) a symbolist painter and important influential member of the Vienna Secession movement (is there anyone who hasn’t seen his painting “Judith and the Head of Holofernes”; Egon Schiele (1890-1980) the Austrian expressionist who painted powerful personal paintings and Oskar Kokoschka the Expressionist, as well as Friedensreich Hundertwasser (1928-2000) whose startling works can be seen in what used to be his home in the 3rd district. Note: The family was Jewish, their original name was Stowasser and to save themselves during WWII they disguised themselves as Catholics and the young Friedrich even joined the Hitler Movement to avoid being targeted. It was only after the war that he then decided to change his name.  Just saying and just mentioning a few of the most renowned Austrian composers, in alphabetical order (feel free to add to this list): Anton Bruckner, Joseph Haydn, Franz Liszt, Joseph Haydn, Gustav Mahler, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Franz Schubert; their compositions can be heard around the world. in opera houses, theaters, concert halls and churches. Hofburg Imperial Palace which was built in the 13th century was the former main residence of the Habsburg monarchy. The palace contains 2600 rooms and some of them are spectacular museums on various themes and exhibitions. The various collections are housed in separate rooms and include musical instruments, weapons and armor, the ceremonial room (State Hall) in the Austrian National Library (Österreichische Nationalbibliothek) one of the most impressive in the world, with more than 12,000,000 books and item. The Imperial Treasury (Kaiserliche Schatzkammer) includes two imperial crowns as well as the Burgundian treasure and the treasure of the Order of the Golden Fleece, the Sisi museum in honor of Empress Elisabeth and so much more. On the outskirts of the palace is the famous Spanish Riding School where to this day they continue the training of Lipizzaner horses. Schönbrunn Palace (Schloss Schönbrunn) which was the summer “vacation” home for the Habsburgs is listed on the UNESCO World Heritage Site, and is considered Austria's most popular and most visited tourist attraction. It is of great importance for its architectural design and its spectacular neoclassical colonnade and manicured gardens which includes the palm house (Palmenhaus) from around 1880 is home to exotic plants growing in 3 pavilions in this huge greenhouse and the Maze (a terrific place for children as well). St. Stephen's Cathedral (Stephansdom) is the seat of the Archbishop of Vienna. It is also one of Austria’s most prevalent attractions with about one million visitors a year! Architecturally it is a very important building in the Gothic style, although it has been added to, altered and redecorated over the many decades or more accurately centuries! However, if it is that “Kodak Moment” you are yearning for, then you will have to climb up over 300 steps to the bell tower for a magnificent view of the city with its colorful tiled rooves. Belvedere is actually two palaces in the Baroque style - the Orangery and the Palace Stables. As well, the Belvedere is home to the Austrian Art Museum with works by leading Austrian artists such as Egon Schiele and Kokoschka Oskar, Gustav Klimt (“The Kiss” is on view, in the Lower Belvedere Museum). The Museum of Art History (Kunsthistorisches Museum), considered one of the top museums in the world, was built near the Imperial Palace in the late 1800’s. There just wasn’t enough room in the Imperial Palace for the incredible huge art collections of the royal family, as well as the most extensive collection of Bruegal art anywhere. Today they also exhibit the works of top artists from the Middle Ages to the 19th century including paintings by Johannes Vermeer, Raphael (Raffaello Sanzio) and Titian (Tiziano Vecelli).  The Opera House (Wiener Staatsoper) was one of the first of the monumental buildings to be built on the Ringstrasse and is renowned throughout the world. If you are a real opera buff you will be excited to know that the acoustics have been improved (with great difficulty because the building is under a preservation order). There are daily ballets and operas and visitors are welcome to view the impressive building. The Vienna Prater is a fantastic large public park in Leopoldstadt and the amusement park (The Wurstelprater) usually referred to as "Prater" is on one side of the park, with over 200 attractions including the iconic Ferris Wheel (Wiener Riesenrad) from the late 1800’s.Note: For easy access, an underground railway now stops near to the entrance of the Prater. Traditional dishes of the Viennese cuisine: Wiener schnitzel (veal coated in breadcrumbs and fried), Tafelspitz (boiled beef), Beuschel (a ragout containing veal lungs and heart), Selchfleisch (smoked meat) eaten with sauerkraut and dumplings and Knödel, a type of dumpling cooked in water- to be eaten as (a) a first course or maine or (b) a sweet type for dessert. Note: After the fall of Napolean in 1815, The Congress of Vienna took place. Celebrations and banquets were held for several months and the congress took on a moniker “The Dancing Congress". And thus for over 200 years the beginning of November signals the opening of “party time” and more than 450 banquets are held during the winter period.