This is to give you an idea of what this story might be about. Hopefully you’ve become curious enough to learn more.
6 LAST MINUTE GETAWAY-SPOTS IN THE CITY
The beautiful Christmas markets are closed and the streets of Vienna have once again become empty. The snowy streets in the old town and sparkling lights that initially attracted many visitors to the little Austrian capital won’t be seen on your Instagram feed for at least the next 9 months. The surge of tourists that arrived weeks ago are ready to pack their bags and head back home. Unfortunately, what they won’t be taking with them are the minus temperatures. Sure, we’re left with less foot-traffic – but I’ll take a crowded but warm subway station over this frosty weather any day. Until the weather increases to double-digits you can find me anywhere but outside. If you’re also in need of a spontaneous holiday getaway, I’ve got just the right list for you.
With a limited budget at your disposal a jet-set trip to a tropical island isn’t the most responsible decision to make. But even with little money (and little planning), you can enjoy a warm and cozy winter. These 6 spots will surely warm you up and give you some energy to carry you throughout the colder periods.
1. Arany Spa
It’s no coincidence that the luxurious day spa at the Park Hyatt is modeled after the concept of gold and imperial heritage. “Arany” itself translates to the Hungarian word for gold, and its interior is a nod to the former Austro-Hungarian empire. Stepping into the thermal waters of this grandiose spa, you will not only have you feeling as if you’re in another country, but also a whole other timeline.
- Arany Spa
- Mon - Sun: 7 AM - 9 PM
- Park Hyatt Vienna - Am Hof 2, 1010 Vienna
2. Café Little Britain
With a warm cup of coffee and a good book in your hand, you can transport yourself anywhere. – More so transport your mind, but you get the general idea.
A good read in a cozy café is all you need, and in Vienna’s second district, the quaint “Little Britain” can help with your longing for a change of pace. Go ahead and grab your favorite read to enjoy in this charming spot (and while you’re there, help yourself to an authentic English breakfast).
- little-britain.at
- Wed - Sun: 9 AM - 6 PM
- Engerthstrasse 249/Stiege 9, 1020 Vienna
3. Schmetterlinghaus
The Schmetterlinghaus in Vienna (House of Butterflies) is the closest thing to a tropical island you’ll get in the city. Not just the large and overgrown plants add to the jungle vibes and flair, but also the misty air that is sprayed to keep its flying inhabitants warm and protected. If peaceful and calming is what you’re looking for, buy a ticket and carefully step into the world of these delicate insects.
- schmetterlinghaus.at
- April - Oct: Mon - Sun & Public holiday 10 AM - 5:45 PM ⸻ Nov - March: Mon - Sun & Public holiday 10 AM - 3:45 PM
- Schmetterlinghaus, 1010 Vienna
4. Palmenhaus Schönbrunn
In the Palm House at Schönbrunn Palace you can escape to a botanical paradise. What’s great about this historical garden house is that you get to experience more than just warm temperatures. The “Warm Palm House” provides a regulated 18°C for its greenery, and in the other two houses you’re met with temperatures ranging down to 12°C and 6°C. If you’re extremely eager for a getaway trip, go ahead and book the bundle-ticket which also includes a tour through the Desert House.
- Palmenhaus Schönbrunn
- Mon - Sun: 10 AM - 4:30 PM
- Schönbrunn Palace Park, 1130 Vienna
5. Flower Café Lederleitner
At first, this Vienna flower shop seems perfectly normal. Inside, you will find beautiful flower arrangements and all the right gardening tools. But further down the floral and colorful rabbit hole, you will find an even more astonishing sight. Past the delicate flowers, you’ll wander into “Hansen”, an indoor café located at the far end of the Lederleitner flower shop. Hard to believe such a calm garden-like space exists in the city, right? Head over to the eatery and treat yourself to a little bit of luxury, far away from the city noise.
- hansen.co.at
- Mon - Fri: 9 AM - 11 PM ⸻ Sat: 9 AM - 4 PM Sun: Closed
- Wipplingerstraße 34, 1010 Vienna
6. Vienna Planetarium
Lastly, you can add an intergalactic trip to your list of getaway destinations. If you haven’t already done so, it’s about time you had a look at what the Zeiss Planetarium has to offer. Step foot into this little universe located in Vienna’s second district, and experience a day-vacation on an astronomical scale.
Where you choose to take a much-needed break is vital and will set the tone for the remainder of your year. Take your time to escape and regroup, at least before the real hustle and bustle of the New Year begins.