WHAT REALLY MAKES VIENNA THE MOST LIVABLE CITY IN THE WORLD

Vienna is the most livable city in the world. At least that's what Mercer and The Economist say. The Viennese are somehow proud of it, but still, no opportunity is missed to grumble. About the tourists, delayed public transport, the wind. Especially the wind. There's always something. People here just like to complain. Let's take a moment to appreciate the beautiful sides of Vienna. Let's take a close look at it. What makes Vienna so livable? What distinguishes us from other cities? (Besides the complaining.)

SOUP

When it comes to food, people come together, they say. Whether it's the Sachertorte in a café, the blood sausage in a Buschenschank, or the typical Wiener Schnitzel in a tavern. Of course, with soup beforehand. Preferably pancake soup. Hardly any other cuisine is shaped by so many influences as Viennese cuisine. The city was once referred to as 'the largest tavern of the Holy Roman Empire.' And we have our own interpretation of street food: sausage stands! What would Vienna be without them? Even Bruno Kreisky never missed his weekly sausage at Leo's sausage stand. So Vienna truly has a lot to offer culinarily. We are pleased!

GREEN

It’s so green when Vienna’s flowers bloom. Or something like that. Yes, Vienna is not only super urban but also super green. In fact, a whole 49.6% of the total area. So two-thirds, as a Viennese would say. Fifty-fifty in reality. In a thousand minus ten parks, the Viennese have the opportunity to relax. Or to engage in sports. Whatever one prefers. If that’s not enough, you just need to hop on the tram – it’s not far to the next forest.

& PARTY

For those who do not want to go to the forest or simply cannot sit still, there is also plenty to do in Vienna. Danube Island Festival, City Festival, Vienna Festival Weeks, Film Festival. And then there are the countless bars, clubs, and events. You really won't get bored in Vienna. And the best part: Much of it is also free! Anyone looking for inspiration for activities should definitely check out our district series.

ONE MORE THING: TRADITIONS

Some things in Vienna are as certain as the Amen in the prayer: For example, the locals flock to the wine taverns in autumn. The centuries-old tradition of celebrating a new wine vintage is a peculiarity that is indispensable to Viennese culture. And it is even an (intangible) UNESCO World Cultural Heritage! The wine tavern makes the end of summer a little less harsh and life in Vienna simply more beautiful. And if you don’t find a Viennese at the wine tavern, he will be sitting in a coffee house, celebrating the world-famous coffee house culture. By the way, also a World Heritage. Let’s be honest. Don’t we really have it nice? As the former mayor once said: “My Vienna is not stupid!” He is right.