WHAT TRULY 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 somewhat proud of it, yet they never miss an opportunity to complain. About the tourists, delayed public transport, the wind. Especially the wind. There's always something. People here just like to grumble. Let’s take a moment to appreciate the beautiful sides of Vienna. Let’s take a closer look. What makes Vienna so livable? How do we differ from other cities? (Aside from the complaining.)

SOUP

Food brings people together, they say. Whether it’s Sachertorte in a coffee house, blood sausage in a tavern, or the typical Wiener schnitzel in a restaurant. Of course, with soup beforehand. Preferably pancake soup. Hardly any other cuisine is as influenced by so many factors as Viennese cuisine. The city was once referred to as "the largest tavern of the Holy Roman Empire." And we have our own unique interpretation of street food: sausage stands! What would Vienna be without them? Even Bruno Kreisky wouldn't miss his weekly sausage at Leo’s sausage stand. Vienna really has a lot to offer culinary-wise. We're delighted!

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. However one prefers to do it. If that's not enough, you just need to take the tram – it’s not far to the nearest forest.

& PARTY

For those who don’t want to go into the woods or simply can’t sit still, there’s also plenty to do in Vienna. Danube Island Festival, City Festival, Vienna Festival Weeks, Film Festival. And then there are also countless venues, 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 amen in prayer: For example, the locals are drawn to the Heurigen in autumn. The centuries-old tradition of celebrating a new wine vintage is a hallmark of Viennese culture and cannot be imagined without. And it's even an (intangible) UNESCO World Heritage! The Heurige makes the end of summer a little less dreadful and life in Vienna simply more beautiful. And if you don’t meet the Viennese at the Heurigen, they are sitting in a coffee house celebrating the world-famous coffee house culture. By the way, also a World Heritage. Let’s be honest. Isn’t it really beautiful here? As the former mayor once said: "My Vienna is not stupid!" He is right.