Small-Group Ringstrasse Walking Tour

Small-Group Ringstrasse Walking Tour

On a half-day history tour, embark Vienna’s most famous boulevard, the Ringstasse, which was meant to dramatically prove the city’s cosmopolitanism and modernity. In the company of a scholar guide, learn about the controversies of the boulevard’s construction, it’s brilliant architectural completion, and how the Ring became the social hub of Vienna city life.

In the company of an historian, walk along the Ringstrasse and and get an in­-depth introduction to the political and philosophical motivations behind the project. In addition, learn about the social and geographical impact it had on the city in the years to come. We start off in front of the impressive Rathaus, or City Hall, one of the landmarks along the Ring and a beloved meeting point.

When the project was introduced, it was proclaimed that a large number of public buildings were to be placed along Ringstrasse. With your guide, consider the historical style in which these public institutions were built and why certain styles where chosen for certain buildings. You will also become familiar with the most influential architects along the Ringstrasse. For each of those architects, winning a commission in this prestigious project meant a completely new status for their future careers. The story of the community who ended up living along the Ringstrasse will add another dimension to the discussion while you walk along the Ring.

Of course, a boulevard functions as a kind of public catwalk and The Ring was most definitely the place of places in Vienna to see, be seen and meet with people from the moment of its completion. Therefore several cafes and restaurants were established along the boulevard. At the end of our tour, visit Cafe Schwarzenberg, established in 1861, to get an insight into the thriving Vienna café culture at the latter half of the 19th Century.