September 18, 2024
Another sunny day in Vienna!!
We are off to explore Schönbrunn Palace which was the main summer residence of the Habsburg rulers, located in Hietzing. The name Schönbrunn has its roots in an artesian well from which water was consumed by the court. What started as a hunting lodge grew into one of the largest palaces in Europe with 1441 rooms and over 180 acres of gardens and the first zoo in Europe.
As you walk into the grounds of the palace you can envision what it was like in the 1700’s with horse drawn carriages entering the enormous courtyard and pulling up to the majestic staircases. The inside is even more impressive with the mural painted ceilings in the incredible ballroom. Imagine what it was like when filled with people in their festive attire.
The gardens are incredible!!! Looking out from the balcony over the gardens to the spectacular fountain and the sculptures lining the walkway is unbelievably beautiful!!
Enough with history time for a little fun!!!! We headed to Prater which is Vienna’s version of Magic Mountain with lots of crazy rides and the Giant Ferris Wheel. The Giant Ferris Wheel was built in 1897 to celebrate the Golden Jubilee of Emperor Franz Josef I. It provides a 360 degree view of Vienna and the park. I loved the ride and the spectacular view. All too soon we headed back to the hotel to pack as this adventure is about to end. We have a 4:00 am pickup to head to the airport to return home.
Thanks for following along on this fun adventure.
India is up next in just 30 days!!!!
