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 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 closer look. What makes Vienna so livable? How do we differ from other cities? (Aside from the grumbling.)

SOUP

When it comes to food, people come together, they say. Whether it's Sachertorte in a coffee house, blood sausage in a wine tavern, or the typical Wiener Schnitzel in an inn. Of course, with soup beforehand. Preferably pancake soup. Hardly any other cuisine is shaped by as many influences as Viennese cuisine. The city was once referred to as 'the largest inn of the Holy Roman Empire.' And we have our very own interpretation of street food: sausage stands! What would Vienna be without them? Even Bruno Kreisky didn't miss his weekly sausage at Leo's sausage stand. Culinary-wise, Vienna has a lot to offer. We're happy about it!

GREEN

It greens so green when Viennese blooms 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. Fifty-fifty in reality. In a thousand minus ten parks, the Viennese have the opportunity to relax. Or to be active in sports. However one prefers to handle that. If that is not enough, one only needs to take a tram – it's not far to the next forest.

& PARTY

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

ANOTHER THING: TRADITIONS

Some things in Vienna are as certain as the amen in prayer: For example, the locals flock to the Heurigen in autumn. The centuries-old tradition of celebrating a new wine vintage is a peculiarity that cannot be imagined without Viennese culture. And it is even (intangible) UNESCO World Heritage! The Heurige makes the end of summer a little less harsh, and life in Vienna simply more beautiful. And if you don't meet a Viennese at the Heurigen, he is 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 beautiful? As the former mayor said: "My Vienna is not stupid!" He is right.