<p>I’ve been to Vienna several times, but never to Budapest or Prague. Those cities are on our list for our next trip. My H has Austrian relatives, so we have never stayed in a hotel. It’s a lovely city, and October would be a great month to visit. Since your D is living there–I assume on a semester abroad?–she may already know here way around. It’s a very walkable city, and public transportation is excellent. Read a good guidebook before you go, because the history of the city is fascinating. Some random recommendations for places to visit:
–See the Ring (the Ringstrasse has some of Vienna’s most beautiful buildings) and the old part of Vienna. There’s also great art nouveau architecture in Vienna.
–Kunsthistorisches Museum (art)
–Holocaust memorial
–Schonbrunn Palace (it can be very crowded)
–Various parts of the Hofburg Palace, including the Spanish Riding School and the museums inside the palace grounds
–Stephansdom (cathedral)
–Mozart’s House
–Go to the Opera, the Volksoper, and/or a concert by the Vienna Philharmonic or Vienna Symphony. We’ve never heard the Vienna Boys Choir, but that’s another good option.
–Take an excursion to the Vienna Woods (Wienerwald), especially Heiligenkreuz, a 12th-century abbey
–Take an excursion to Kahlenberg, which has beautiful city and Wienerwald views.
–Drink coffee in one of the many cafes. We always bring home some Meinl coffee. It’s the popular Austrian grocery store brand, but not like our grocery store coffee at all.
–Eat well. I wish I had recommendations, but we have always gone with family and friends to wonderful restaurants that I no longer know the names of! </p>
<p>Outside Vienna: Our main destination has been Graz, where my H also has relatives. We’ve been to Innsbruck and spent time in Burgenland in the southwestern part of the country. My experience is slightly different than that of the average tourist, but I hope this is helpful. If I think of more, I’ll let you know. Have fun!</p>