Save the date: in a month or so, Europavox is coming back to Austria ! The sixth edition of Europavox Festival Vienna will see the amazing venue WUK filled with bands from all over Europe: Lucy Kruger & The Lost Boys (Germany), MNNQNS (France), shame (UK), KOIKOI (Serbia), Pom Poko (Norway) and The Haunted Youth and Ada Oda, both from Belgium. Bipolar Feminin won’t have to travel too far though: the four-piece rock band, who seamlessly combine the introspective allure of The Cure with thought-provoking lyrics reminiscent of Tocotronic, are living in Vienna !
We asked them to share with us their favorite places in their city, in short, everything you need to keep busy before going to WUK and enjoy the shows, including cafés, parks and even mini-golf !
Café Erdgeschoss
Schottenfeldgasse 95, 1070 Vienna
When you walk through a curtain into Café Erdgeschoss, you already smell the typical smell of a bar that begs to be called your favourite. On the one hand, Café Erdgeschoss invites you to drink beer or tea in a relaxed way, and on the other, it has great potential for escalating evenings. Maybe the Schnaps offer has something to do with it. We recommend Zirbe, Ingwerer or Kalaschnikow. That’s mixed with good music and dark, moody lighting. Astrid, the owner of the bar, could be described as an original of the Viennese bar scene.
Kongreßbad
Julius-Meinl-Gasse 7A, 1160 Vienna
Kongreßbad is a true diamond of the socialist golden age in Vienna. This public outdoor pool was built in 1928 and still invites you to swim and wile away your summer days. You don‘t have to bring any food, as you can find great fries and other snacks at the highest point of the estate. It is wise to bring some bathing slippers, because the sunbathing area is densely overgrown with clover, which invites a lot of bees.
Donauinsel
Donauinsel is a long, artificial island between the river Danube and the “new Danube” which was constructed between 1972 and 1988. In summer it can get really hot in Vienna, and when this is the case, Donauinsel is the place to be. There are people all over the place – swimming, drinking, playing Frisbee, listening to music, dancing or just hanging out. Some people walk around and sell cold beer and other drinks. It is always worth a visit, especially in summer – giving Vienna a lively, livable feel.
Brunnenmarkt / Yppenplatz
The Brunnenmarkt, one of the longest-standing permanent markets in Europe, is located in Vienna’s 16th district, and is our top tip for great street food. Our recommendations are Halis Börek (spinach!), Achraf King of the Beans Fatteh and Fallafel, Garbanzo, and Cafe C.I. At the end of the Brunnenmarkt is the Yppenplatz, a good place to eat the treats you have acquired. The whole place invites you to meet friends, play a game of table tennis or just have a beer. In general, the Yppenplatz is a central point of our band, as our rehearsal room is also located here.
Minigolf Kerschner
Roggendorfgasse 2, 1170 Vienna
If you have some time and desire for a fun activity a bit away from the hustle and bustle of the city, our tip is the Kerschner miniature golf course. You can easily reach it from Gürtel (U6) by taking tram 2 or 43. It is located at the Post Sportverein Anlage. There is a competitive 18-hole miniature golf course on the site, which is available to every amateur and competitive athlete from Tuesday to Sunday. A round with 4-5 people can take up to 2 hours, so you should take your time or form smaller groups.
Filmcasino
Margaretenstraße 78, 1050 Vienna
Filmcasino Vienna is a cinematic gem nestled in the heart of Austria’s capital. This iconic venue, steeped in history, has been enchanting moviegoers since its inception in 1955. With its art deco architecture and intimate ambiance, Filmcasino offers a unique and timeless cinematic experience. Film enthusiasts flock to this venue not only for its carefully curated selection of films, but also for its commitment to fostering cinematic culture. It hosts film festivals, retrospectives, and special screenings, making it a hub for cinephiles. Whether you’re savoring a classic film or indulging in avant-garde cinema, Filmcasino Vienna is the quintessential destination for those who appreciate the magic of the silver screen.
Venster99
Stadtbahnbögen 99 1090 Vienna
Venster99 is a renowned underground Vienna cultural hub. This avant-garde venue serves as a thriving epicenter for artistic expression, music, and community engagement. Located in the heart of Vienna’s vibrant 9th district, Venster99 exudes an authentic, DIY spirit that has captivated both locals and international visitors for years. This intimate space hosts an eclectic array of events, from punk rock concerts to experimental art exhibitions and thought-provoking discussions. It’s a hub where creativity flourishes, fostering a sense of unity and belonging among like-minded individuals. Venster99 is more than just a venue; it’s a testament to Vienna’s dynamic cultural scene, celebrating diversity and pushing boundaries in every artistic endeavor.
Café Weidinger
Lerchenfelder Gürtel 1, 1160 Vienna
Café Weidinger, nestled in the heart of Vienna, is a charming oasis where history and gastronomy unite. Established in 1904, this iconic café exudes Viennese charm and tradition. Its ornate Art Nouveau interior, adorned with vintage mirrors and elegant chandeliers, creates a nostalgic ambiance. Locals and tourists alike flock to Weidinger for its delectable Viennese coffee and mouthwatering pastries. Sip on a rich Melange while savoring a slice of Sachertorte or Apfelstrudel, and you’ll feel transported to a bygone era. Whether you’re seeking a leisurely breakfast or a cozy afternoon respite, Café Weidinger invites you to relish Vienna’s timeless coffee culture.
Böhmischer Prater
Laaer Wald 216, 1100 Vienna
Böhmischer Prater in Vienna exudes a unique and modest charm. Unlike its more famous counterpart, the Prater, it offers a quieter, less commercialized experience. The park features modest rides and simple stalls, giving it an authentic, unpretentious atmosphere. What sets it apart is its genuine, community-driven vibe, where locals gather to enjoy affordable amusements and local delicacies. Böhmischer Prater’s charm lies in its unassuming, down-to-earth character, making it a hidden gem for those seeking an unfiltered glimpse into Vienna’s everyday life and culture. It’s a place where the ordinary becomes extraordinary, making it an understated but captivating destination.
