Vienna is a city of music, palaces and grand traditions. Wander the narrow streets of the Innere Stadt, the historic center, and you can almost imagine running into Mozart or Sigmund Freud, both of whom lived here. The Habsburg emperors ruled from Vienna for centuries, leaving behind magnificent palaces and an elegant cityscape that's a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Tour the Hofburg Palace and the Schonbrunn Palace, the imperial summer residence with its sprawling gardens, and see Gustav Klimt's The Kiss at the Belvedere. Step inside St. Stephen's Cathedral, catch a performance at the Vienna State Opera or a classical concert, and visit the Spanish Riding School to see the famous Lipizzaner horses. Linger in a classic Viennese coffeehouse over Sachertorte and apple strudel. Families will enjoy the giant Ferris wheel at the Prater amusement park and the Schonbrunn Zoo, one of the oldest in the world. In the evening, sample local wine at a heuriger, a traditional wine tavern on the edge of the Vienna Woods, or head to the bars of the Bermuda Triangle district.

Vienna is a highlight of Danube river cruises and connects by train to Salzburg, Prague and Budapest. In winter, its Christmas markets are magical. I'll plan your stay, concert tickets and rail connections.