Experience in Vienna, Austria, by Jóhanna

What is it like to live in Vienna? Would you recommend it? What is the city like?

Vienna is not a very big city, although it is Austria's capital. It is smaller than Munich, for sure. Its transport system is fabulous though and it is definitely a vibrant student city. There are many parks and restaurants of literally all tastes and diets (incl. vegan).

The people are generally very friendly, but it is difficult to find friends in the big study programs. The city is clean, but there are many beggars. There are also many international students, so you'll always hear foreign languages.

Vienna is great because of its beautiful buildings, multiple museums, foreign language cinemas, many cultural festivities in the summer (i. e. Life Ball, Wiener Festwochen etc. ), lots of musicians and bands come to Vienna to perform in bars and cafés, numerous farmer's markets (i. e. Naschmarkt, Bauernmarkt Freyung etc. ) and so forth. It really can offer something for every person's heart and keeps growing and evolving everyday. We even do have several vegan restaurants, cafés and ice cream shops.

How much does it cost to live in Vienna?

In the inner districts it is certainly expensive, but a great tip is the Albert-Schweitzer Haus, which is a student's dormitory (also single rooms) which has a great deal. Food and restaurants tend to be more expensive, but it is okay.

Is it difficult to find accommodation in Vienna? Is there any advice you can give?

It is fairly easy. Albert-Schweitezr Haus is a great deal, and Pfeilheim as well. They are both near the first district and offer a fair price. But living together with other students is also easy to find. Just google and you'll find the websites that post those looking for flatmates.

What is the food like? What are your favourite dishes?

Food is great. However, there are many international restaurants. Many very Viennese as well, though. Those are generally more expensive, but there are cheaper ones too. Viennese food is very meaty or desserts which are very delicious (Kaiserschmarn, Sachertorte, Kardinale, Mozartkugeln, etc. )

There are many indian and vegan restaurants, of course many asian ones too. Vegetasia is one of the best!

What places would you recommend visiting in Vienna?

1. Schönbrunn.
2. All gardens and parks.
3. Kahlenberg.
4. Donauinsel.
5. Karlskirche.
6. Stephansdom.

Buy yourself a tourist's guide!

Is it good to eat out in Vienna? Can you tell us your favourite spots?

Yes, perfect! Some of my favourite places are:

1. Vegetasia.
2. Yamm.
3. Teehaus.
4. Vegan Maran.
5. Weltcafé.
6. Tunnel.
7. Xu's Kitchen.
8. Home made.
9. Simply Raw Bakery.

Most of those listed are vegan or vegetarian.

Is the nightlife good in Vienna? Where is good to go?

1. Flexx.
2. Highlander's (scottish pub).
3. Charlie P's (irish pub).

What advice would you give future students heading to Vienna?

Run fast, be prepared for heavy rain in may and june (just showers), don't let yourself become stressed out by stressed car drivers, enjoy your erasmus or whatever it is and explore the city as much as you can!