Jenny's experience in Vienna, Austria

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

Vienna is on of the most livable cities in the world. I have become a fan of the suburbs and I still live here with my partner. We want to buy a house for us here within the next 2 years. I have already lived in Helsinki and Barcelona for a short period of time but my heart remains in Vienna!

What is the student life like in Vienna?

As a student, you have many opportunities to reside in Vienna or to live in a shared flat. Since I am a girl from Vienna, I do not know what it is like for foreign students who come here to study. Many of my peers came from other federal states of Austria in order to study in Vienna. I know that they enjoyed their time here in Vienna very much. For example, some stayed in Vienna after studies.

How much are the living costs in Vienna?

In comparison to Helsinki, the cost of living in Vienna is reasonable but is more expensive in comparison to Barcelona. If you know where to do your shopping, then you can have a well filled shopping trolley for a small price.

How is the food? What are your favourite dishes?

I love Austrian cuisine. Nowhere else in the world has better dishes and above all such a variety. From sweets to traditional Viennese cakes, there is something for everyone. I love "Kaiserschmarrn" and Viennese Schnitzel with Vogerl- and Erdäpfelsalat. However, the vegetarian dishes from Austria can also be simple as well as delicious. Take for example, egg noodles with green salad. No kitchen in the world can keep up with our dishes. I have been living in Spain for 3 months now and I miss Viennese cuisine greatly. I am no fan of Spanish food and everyday I look forward to going home.

Which places in Vienna should you definitely visit?

The "Schlosspark" in Schönbrunn as well as "Gloriett" are indescribably beautiful in Summer and in Autumn.

If you have the time and opportunity, then a walk in Laxenburger castle park is also worth it. For lovers, a Sunday walk between forests and a wonderful lake is a must.

Can you eat well in Vienna? Do you want to tell us some of your favourite local places?

I really like going to the so-called "Centimeter", there are several of them in Vienna. The portions are huge compared to the prices. Good traditional cuisine! Simply amazing!

For all Burger and Schnitzel fans, "Figls" is an absolute must! It is outside the city but extremely delicious.

If you would like something different, then at "Crossfields" you can enjoy very good Australian dishes.

What advice would you like to give to future students of Vienna?

Enjoy your time in Vienna, the most livable city in the world! Vienna has so much to offer, from culture and theater to museums and architecture!

You can experience so much in Vienna but also escape the stress in the city. By having a cozy picnic in the Volksgarten or simply by taking a city bike along the Danube or staying over the Danube in the Donaupark and to enjoy the nature. Vienna has such an interesting culture and history. In the 13th district of Vienna, Schönbrunn Palace is the oldest animal park in the world. I was already in some cities in animal parks but in no animal park can you see so many different animals and spend so many hours without getting bored as in Schönbrunn.

The nightlife in Vienna is also so versatile, there is something for everyone. In Vienna, there are so many possibilities in order to amuse yourself and to culturally build yourself.

Enjoy your time in Vienna! Cheers!