The Danube Canal: Beach bars, cocktails and sun loungers

The Danube Canal is the arm of the Danube River which lies closest to the city centre. It was previously known as the “Wiener Wasser” (Vienna Water”) or the “Wiener Arm”. In the summer, the Danube Canal is transformed into a popular meeting place for young and old, with a beach-side ambience: Many pubs, clubs and outdoor bars wait for sun-loving guests. Here, they can stick their toes in the sand, get comfy on a sun-lounger and enjoy some colourful cocktails. And the best thing about it? The Danube Canal is just a ten-minute walk from the IMLAUER Hotel Vienna.

The Hirschstetten flower gardens: Blossoming in the 22nd District

At Quadenstrasse 15, you’ll find a colourful paradise over an area of 70,000 square metres. Immerse yourself in the various themed gardens, where you can admire a variety of flowers and plants. The Hirschstetten Zoo, with its numerous four-legged residents – many of which are endangered species – is a highlight not only for small visitors. The same is true of the historical farm, where you will feel as if transported back in time. Take a look at the tropical palm house! A perfect culinary stop is offered by the Garden Café and the “Enclosure at the Water Lily Pond”. You’ll get a touch of France and a breezy beach feeling!

The Brunnenmarkt:  One of Europe’s largest permanent street markets

With over 160 stalls, the Brunnenmarkt – located in Vienna’s 16th District – is a colourful melting pot of cultures. Due to its multicultural atmosphere, it is also known as the “Orient around the corner”. Here you can buy regional food and souvenirs, and enjoy the scenery from the comfort of one of the cafés and bars. A small market was held on Thaliastrasse as far back as 1830. The street was extended over the years in the direction of the Brunnengasse. The former Yppenmarkt finally merged with the Brunnenmarkt in 2009. And guess what? Today the Brunnenmarkt is one of Europe’s largest permanent street markets.

Josefstädter Strasse: On a foray to the 8th District

The Josefstädter Strasse in Vienna’s 8th District is considered a top tip for a shopping spree by Viennese insiders. Here you’ll find many small, individual boutiques – some with an exceptional range of products. Whether it’s fancy fashion you want or vegan ice cream: you’ll find what you want here! And here’s another tip for taking a little break whilst window-shopping: Café Eiles at the lower end of Josefstädter Strasse is a Viennese tradition away from the usual tourist trail.

Cemetery of the Nameless: The South Cemetery and its ghosts

The forest cemetery in South Vienna is a place of unknown spirits. It is here, right at Alberner Hafen, that those nameless dead who had perished in the Danube were laid to rest. With its beautiful chapel and the numerous wrought-iron crosses on the graves, and surrounded by trees, plants and vines: this is a mythical, silent place. Maybe you’re familiar with the Cemetery of the Nameless from the Hollywood film “Before Sunrise”? In any case, the South Cemetery is well worth a visit!

The Otto Wagner Villa: The private museum of Ernst Fuchs

Villa Wagner, at Hüttelbergstrasse 26, was built between 1886 and 1888 according to the plans of Otto Wagner. Today, the beautiful villa is owned by the heirs of Ernst Fuchs. Behind the historic walls, art lovers will find the private museum of the famous Austrian painter.

Neubaugasse: The “street of the specialists”

Neubaugasse is mainly known by the people of Vienna as the “street of the specialists”. Here, outside of the mainstream, in many small shops (some run by the owners themselves) you’ll get an intense urge to do some shopping – thanks to everything from the colourful hippie shops to the juice bars.

The Observatory Park: Stargazing in the 18th District

Hidden trails and a fairy-tale atmosphere: The Observatory Park, of the Department of Astronomy and Astrophysics at Edmund-Weiss-Gasse 2 is a special kind of place. As you wander through the park, you can almost feel as though you’re in another world. Both the interior of the building, which belongs to the University of Vienna, and the extensive park have a magical, almost mystical charm. A top tip, and not just for stargazers.

The Wotruba Church: A church built from concrete blocks

Right here: It doesn’t look like a typical church. Between 1974 and 1976, the Roman Catholic Wotruba Church was built at Ottillingerplatz 1, from concrete blocks. It is also known as the “Church of the Most Holy Trinity” and stands out even from afar due to its unique design. Amazing patterns of light are produced inside the church, as the light passes through the 152 bare concrete blocks. But please come and see for yourself!

Cobenzl Petting Zoo: A trip to the children’s farm

A special treat, and not just for townie children: The petting zoo at the Cobenzl Children’s Farm Estate is a wonderful destination for families. Here you can still find things as they used to be: Rabbits hop over the meadows, geese chatter excitedly, cats wander over the courtyard and, with a bit of luck, the kids can stroke a fluffy lamb. About 100 animals live in a total of seven stables. But it’s not just kids who will experience the sheer joy of Cobenzl. The wonderful location with breathtaking views over Vienna also enchant bigger “kids”. You can stroll along the butterfly path, visit the bee hive on the Bee Nature Trail, or bake fresh bread with your children. No matter where you decide on: You will definitely not get bored with your children here!