Day 4 – Another Day of Adventure in Vienna

This morning we got up super early to make our way to Schönbrunn Palace for our 8:30 entrance time. We. Were. Dragging. But we made it in time to get breakfast at the cafe first.

Schönbrunn Palace

Our ticket included a self-guided tour of the state rooms and personal rooms of the Habsburg family. Evan pointed out how much it reminded him of Versailles. I felt the same way – gaudy decorations and a gross display of wealth. We talked a bit about why people of power often lavish themselves in riches. We also learned quite a few interesting facts about the former rulers of the Austrian Empire – a lot of cousins marrying cousins.

I was happy to get outside to the gardens where the sun was reflecting off the water fountains and pools. We climbed to the Gloriette, and treated ourselves to Viennese desserts and fancy drinks. The view of the palace and surrounding city of Vienna was breathtaking.

We meandered through the gardens on the way back to the entrance and then hopped on the U-Bahn to head back to the Airbnb for a rest.

After a combination of napping and reading, we headed out for lunch, stopping first at The Zuckerlwerkstatt (Sugar Workshop) where we learned how handmade candy is created. There are only 15 people who practice candy making left in Austria! The kids already know about most of the steps (thanks YouTube!) but it was still very fun to watch.

Lunch was at AugustinerKeller, a restaurant underneath the Albertina Modern museum where Kendra’s grandfather Felix often frequented. The food was incredible – I had a mushroom goulash and Hugo spritz that left me wanting more. (Kendra and I ate here in 2006 on our first trip Europe trip together.)

Wurstprater

We spent the rest of the day at the Prater – an amusement park dating back to 1776.

Our first stop was the historic ferris wheel, built in 1897, followed by lots fun playing games and going on rides. Evan and Kate were shockingly good at a sniper shooting range. Addison and Kendra braved what looked like a terrifying ride, while I took Kate on a much more tame one. Our day ended with ice cream and U-Bahn ride back to the Airbnb.