If it hadn’t been for the appalling weather and the unlucky choice of hostel I think Vienna could have been a contender for one of my favourite European cities. Definitely one I plan to re-explore.

The remains of the Hapsburg Empire play a significant role in this city’s attraction. Elegance and extravagance are in abundance and nowhere is this more apparent than at their out of town residence – [insert name]. A day can be spent meandering around the gardens, getting lost in the maze and being enthralled by the pandas in the palace’s very own zoo. We didn’t even have time to enter the palace but were still wowed by its magnificence. On returning to the city if your appetite for extraordinary architecture hasn’t been quelled there is plenty more to see. Along with all the usual museums and galleries this city has got a lot to offer. There is a certain amount of smugness in this somewhat overlooked European capital. The Austrians do not need (or want) hoards of tourists to convince them their city is magical. And although I would definitely recommend a visit, it is with much trepidation because once this city is fully appreciated by the tourist crowds it may lose its attraction forever.