subject: VERSATILE VIENNA [print this page] Also referred to as the Europe's cultural capital, Vienna scores a perfect ten when it comes to an exciting vacation destination. A metropolis with a unique vibrancy, charm and flair, the capital city of Austria is the place to be for anyone with a romantic streak and an interest in history. With so many cheap flights to Vienna doing the rounds these days, one ought not to miss this highly romantically imperial city. Boasting the best of infrastructure, the perfect verdant expanses and the cleanest and the safest of roads and lanes, not for nothing does it receive an influx of visitors from all over the world. Captivating the hearts of some of the most discerning tourists as well, the sheer variety of contrasts that the city possesses is rather overwhelming. When it comes to things like heritage, culture and art, Vienna is a treasure trove hands down. Looking around one can witness the sweet amalgamation of the old and the new through magnificent Baroque buildings, Art Nouveau and the latest architecture. Art-aficionados and history buffs, discerning tourists or inquisitive travelers, Vienna appeals to one and all, courtesy the multitude of great sees and dos. The one aspect that defines the city perfectly is all things creative. No matter where you are in Vienna, creativity follows. You'll come across celebrated works of global and local art at the numerous galleries and exhibition houses, witness it through various opera performances, and classical and experimental theater, hear it at one of the music concerts, experience it at any of the dance festivals, and even see it at the city's underground stations, given their high elegance and ornamental quotient. Zestful and dynamic, even a lazy stroll across the winding alleyways and lanes of the city is enough to perk up. Enjoy a horse-drawn carriage with your loved one, explore the city's glorious ring boulevard, marvel at the State Opera House, admire the Imperial Palace, or be awe-struck looking at Vienna's Parliament building. Even with all its great ancient attractions, romantic places and arty-dos, Vienna is also a city that appeals to the young, and we mean really young. The entertainment metropolis of Central Europe is laden with an extensive range of programs, events and attractions that can be enjoyed by the entire family. Leisure time in the Prater Park, coming up, close and personal with nature at the Lainzer Tiergarten zoo, touring the city on a river cruise, or relaxing by an indoor or outdoor pool, there are choices galore here. Luxurious accommodations, bed and breakfasts, cheap hotels, villas, holiday homes and apartments, when it comes to choice of lodgings, they are aplenty in Vienna. Shopaholics, gourmands and nighttime revelers, you could be all, or one or none, no matter what you are, the vibrant retail scene, party time and an elaborate wining and dining scene is sure to thrill everyone. The next you think of a vacation in Europe, start with Vienna, it's fun, adventure, relaxation and total rejuvenation all rolled into one.