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, yet they never miss an opportunity to complain. About the tourists, delayed public transport, the wind. Especially the wind. There’s always something. People just enjoy grumbling here. 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? How do we differ from other cities? (Aside from grumbling.)

SOUP

When it comes to food, people come together, they say. Whether it's the Sachertorte in the coffeehouse, the Blunzn in the Buschenschank, or the typical Wiener Schnitzel in the tavern. Of course, with soup beforehand. Preferably Frittaten. Hardly any other cuisine is influenced by as many factors as Viennese cuisine. The city was once even referred to as 'the largest tavern of the Holy Roman Empire.' And when it comes to street food, we have our own interpretation: sausage stands! What would Vienna be without them? Even Bruno Kreisky never missed his weekly sausage at Leo's sausage stand. Vienna truly has a lot to offer in terms of culinary delights. We're happy about it!

GREEN

It is so green when Viennese flowers bloom. Or something like that. Yes, Vienna is not only super urban but also super green. Namely, a whole 49.6% of the total area. So two-thirds, as a Viennese would say. In reality, it’s fifty-fifty. In a thousand minus ten parks, the Viennese have the opportunity to relax. Or to engage in sports activities. However one prefers to approach it. If that’s not enough, one only needs to take a 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 is also plenty to do in Vienna. Danube Island Festival, city festival, Vienna Festival Weeks, film festival. And then there are 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 Amen in prayer: For example, the locals flock to the heuriger in autumn. The centuries-old tradition of celebrating a new wine vintage is a hallmark and integral to Viennese culture. It is even recognized as an (intangible) UNESCO World Heritage! The heuriger makes the end of summer a little less painful and life in Vienna simply more beautiful. And if you don’t meet a Viennese at the heuriger, they are sitting in a coffeehouse celebrating the world-famous coffeehouse culture. By the way, also a World Heritage. Let’s be honest. Don’t we have it really nice? As the former mayor said: “My Vienna is not stupid!” He is right.