Vienna is known for its imperial architecture and world-class art museums, so it’s been on my list for a long time. After spending a few days museum hopping and exploring the what I could of the city, I really liked Vienna and can’t recommend a trip enough for art lovers.

A Brief History of Vienna

Ironically, Vienna started as a Roman settlement named Vindobona or “white base/white city.” When I think of Vienna today, I think of all the white Baroque buildings that give the city its personality.

The city grew with ties (and animosity) to surrounding Celtic and Germanic … Continue reading

Sometimes touristy places are famous for a reason, so Hallstatt was a place I wanted to see for myself. It’s definitely a crowded little place but I definitely thought it was pretty and liked my visit.

A Quick History of Hallstatt

The salt mines of Hallstatt have been worked for millennia, and it’s believed there was a settlement in the area around 2500 years ago. Interestingly enough, the area wasn’t largely inhabited for centuries after that, probably because it’s difficult to reach, but Hallstatt became a market town in the early 14th century. The economy for centuries revolved around salt … Continue reading

When I was in Vienna, visiting Kreuzenstein Castle was an easy option since it’s so close to the city. I absolutely fell in love with it, a medieval gem with charming influences from all around Europe. It was exactly what I was hoping to see in a medieval castle and I can’t recommend a visit enough.

Kreuzenstein Castle’s History

Kreuzenstein Castle dates back to the early 12th century when the original name “Grizanstein” was first documented in 1115, and the Habsburgs came into possession of the castle in the mid 13th century. During the Thirty Years’ War (1618-1648), it became … Continue reading

A visit to Salzburg made sense for my trip to Austria. There are lots of places to see in the country but Salzburg had a lot to do and had that historic charm I always look for in a city, so I decided to make a stop there for a few days. Unfortunately there was some flooding for a day when I was there but I was still able to see a lot the city has to offer. It’s a cute place in a stunning setting.

A Short History of Salzburg

The area where Salzburg currently stands has been inhabited … Continue reading