Third Field Trip – Vienna and Venice

Luxurious Vienna

Statue in the city center

What is the first thing that comes to your mind when you think about Vienna? For me, it’s classical music. Mozart, Schubert, Beethoven, Strauss, Liszt, and many other great composers and musicians were born in Vienna. No wonder why it is considered as the most musical city in the world. As I was walking through the Vienna’s streets, gardens, palaces, museums, and galleries I could almost hear Mozart’s minuets playing in my head. And as a music lover I immediately started soaking the atmosphere of this magnificent city. On our trip to Vienna, we walked through the city center and went to the Art History Museum, which was so big that I only could walk though half of it!

Sacher torte

The first thing I did when I had free time in Vienna is I tried the original Sacher torte, which is the world’s most famous chocolate cake originated in Vienna. This cake has a pretty interesting history. In 1832, Austrian Prince challenged his chef to create a unique dessert for his guests. However, the chef got sick and he let his young assistant, Franz Sacher, to complete this task. Sacher’s cake delighted the guests. Prince of Austria liked it so much, he ordered Sacher to make this cake for him every day. Soon Franz Sacher opened his own bakery, where he made his chocolate cake, which became very popular in Vienna as it was prince’s favorite dessert. I was very excited to try this cake and, to be honest, I was quite disappointed. I expected so much from the “most famous cake in the world”, and it turned out to be a regular chocolate cake.

Fountain in one of the parks

During my free time I also went to the Schloss Schönbrunn palace and Schönbrunn garden. This place was absolutely amazing. Vienna has a very rich imperial history which you could read about from the books, but when you actually walk thought the real palace which belonged to Austrian royalty once, it is quite an experience!

Schönbrunn Palace

 Magical Venice

Waking up in Venice is like waking up in a fairy tale. When you are there it feels as you are still dreaming and walking in your sleep. There is something special about Venice, I would even say magical; it does not look like any other places in the world. Venice is located on the water, so there many canals that go through the city. Therefore, locals do not use cars to get around the city, instead they use boats. How fascinating is that! During our three days stay I have not seen even one car, which is actually kind of nice if you think about it. 

Gondola Ride

The atmosphere in Venice is so relaxing; it is sunny and warm, all people are friendly and enthusiastic, and, of course, Italian food is incredible! In order to completely feel the atmosphere of this city, you need to take a gondola ride. It is unforgettable experience! You also need to try a glass of Italian wine with spaghetti or pizza, preferably outside with a good view; and have a casual conversation with a local. I feel like it is the best way to enjoy your stay in Venice.  

Grand Canal