Arrival in Vienna and an afternoon exploring the Old City and the Ringstrasse
Landed in Vienna and walked out of the airport. Was not aware of the Schengen Agreement and that I would not have to clear passport control again coming into Austria so was wondering where I had missed the line as I headed out of the airport. Took the CAT (City Airport Train) from the Airport to Wein Mitte Station in Vienna. Walked to the Vienna Marriott, my hotel for the next two nights before the biking trip proper was to start. Of course coming out from the train station I went the wrong way up the road towards my hotel, and went about 400 meters before I realized my mistake. Oh well, a 1/2 mile walk became a mile walk instead.
Settled in at the hotel and then went out to wander the Old City. Since I was staying right on the Ringstrasse there was no problems just wandering into the Old City. Walked to Stephansplatz and St Stephens cathedral. Then just wandered around a bit more to experience the flavor of Vienna. Went back to the hotel and decided to get in a quick run. Ran the complete Ringstrasse around the Old City of Vienna. Got a quick glance of sights such as the Vienna State Opera House, parts of the Hofburg Palace, Parliament, Danube Canal, and the Stadtpark before ending up back at the hotel. Showered, changed, went out for a quick dinner, and then back to the hotel to catch up on some sleep and try to avoid any potential lingering jetlag.
The hotel blends a mix of Viennese flair and American traditionalism. As a Marriott the hotel seemed to cater more to business travllers than to tourists. The hotel has three restaurants and a bar, but I highly recommend looking for dining options elsewhere. A drink at the bar in the evening however is a different proposition and sitting in the elegant lobby with a drink and talking to fellow travellers is enjoyable.
I had a regular king bed room. The room was spacious and stately and about what one would expect from an upscale property. Large, comfortable bed, an upright chair, large desk, and of course the obligatory mini-bar (of which I did not partake). As a platinum rewards member (too many Marriott nights over the past few years), I had access to the club floor and lounge which allowed me to take advantage of a free breakfast and snacks and appertizers throughout the day.
The hotel has one of the few indoor swimming pools in the downtown Vienna area (per the hotel website) and a fitness center. I walked downstairs to see these but did not use them during my short stay.
As the hotel caters towards business travellers and other upscale patrons it is relatively expensive. Rooms run just under €200 per night as of 2006 at the time of this stay. For this reason I utilized Marriott Reward Points for the particular stay reviewed with this blog.
In summary, a very nice hotel, but pricey for many of the TravBuddy members who may be looking at this review. At the same time if the cost doesn't bother you, there are probably classier hotels with more European flair that you can find in the area. But the location is second to none and the services were great.
