Expert: Claire Symons - 1/22/2007

Question
Hello,
Me and my wife are going to visit Vienna in April. Please give us some advice on art museums (especially 19th and 20th century painting), modern architecture, nice cafes, and budget dining.

Than you very much in advance!
Thank you

Answer
         The Kunsthistorisches Museum and The Upper Belvedere both have excellent collections in the art department. If you want more modern art, look for the Museum of Modern Art. The original Gustave Klimt 'Kiss' is painted on the wall in the Secession building, which is very close to one of the larger open air markets - an experience even if you aren't shopping. The market is called the Naschtmarkt and I think the Ubahn stop is Kettenbruchengasse.
             Hundertwasser Haus and the gallery of his work are both very interesting as both art and architechture. The gallery is called Kunst Haus Wien. The Postsparkasse is a very famous modern building - located in the first district. There is also a modern building directly across from Stephansdom, the central Cathedral of the city.
         Vienna is a fairly small city and simply walking is often the best way to see all the city has to offer and find a nice cafe. Cafe's are everywhere. Do not be drawn into the famous cafes though. The Sacher hotel cafe is horribly overpriced and the fare is not worth it. Find a small cafe and order whatever coffee you enjoy and an apple strudel. Another thing to be aware of; the Viennese really enjoy carbonated water. They will often serve it with coffee and it can be a rude surprise for those who dont enjoy it.
         Budget dining can be difficult for the not-great German speaker. If you ask for water with your meal, you'll get the extra pricy bottled water. Sadly, I can't remember how to request tap water. Sorry. If you can, find a grocery store and put your own breakfast and lunch together. "Spar" is a grocery store chain that should be easy to find. There are also Kabab shops all over the city and they generally offer interesting yet cheap Greekish food. If you order a Kabab, you'll get some sort of seasoned meat with tomato, lettuce, onions and a mysterious dressing on a bun. Sounds a little dicey, but they are wonderful. For dinner, go broke and enjoy some of the typical Viennese fare. Try the Wienerschnitzel (it comes in Chicken and Turkey, as well as Veal, if Veal makes you uncomfortable). Try the beer. The food is good. The service is not, but it isnt personal, it's just a cultural thing.
        I know this is probably overwhelming at this point, but I am wrapping it up. See the Hofburg. See Schonbrunn. The public transportation system in Vienna is fantastic. If you buy a daily or weekly pass, you can use all 4 kinds. They have a subway, street cars, faster street cars with fewer stops (Strassenbahn), and buses. All of these operate on the honor system so you could risk it and just hop on because tickets are not checked to get on or off. But be warned, there are plainclothes employees that will sometimes ask all passengers for their pass and fine those without.
       Vienna is a very very safe city. Your only worry in that department might be petty theft if you dont keep an eye on your wallet or purse. As you can probably tell, I absolutely love the city. If there is anything else I can help you with, please just ask!