Hello, my darling tutu enthusiasts! It’s Wednesday, which means it’s time for another delightful dance through the wonders of Vienna with your favourite pink tutu-clad travel companion – yours truly! This week, I’m buzzing with excitement, having just spent the weekend lost in a waltz of culture, colour, and… you guessed it… tutus!
For those of you new to my #PinkTutuVienna adventures, I’m Emma, a Derbyshire lass with a penchant for pink, an obsession with tutus, and a heart overflowing with a love for the world of ballet. My journey through Europe, funded by my performances (oh yes, I’m not just a pretty face!), sees me discovering new cities and spreading the glorious gospel of tutu-wearing wherever I go. It's my mission to make the world a more fabulous place, one pink tutu at a time!
Now, back to Vienna! This captivating city truly captured my heart from the very moment I stepped off the train, a vision of stately elegance in shades of ochre and golden sunlight. As I glided through the city centre in my favourite blush pink tutu (a new purchase from a rather fabulous antique shop – more on that later!), I couldn't help but feel like I was in a fairytale. The ornate buildings, the air of graceful history, the sounds of waltz music filtering out from cafes – it's enough to make any tutu-clad ballerina's head spin!
My Vienna adventure kicked off with a ballet performance that I just had to see. The Vienna State Opera is a veritable palace of the performing arts, its opulent grandeur matched only by the exquisite talent showcased on stage. I felt a thrill of inspiration seeing the dancers' fluidity and the captivating artistry. The evening’s ballet, “La Sylphide,” with its intricate steps, romantic story, and ethereal choreography, truly took my breath away. Afterwards, I simply had to find a fitting post-performance treat – a perfect blend of Vienna's historical charm and modern sweet-tooth-satisfying delights! So I popped into the Cafe Sacher for a slice of their legendary chocolate cake (and yes, a generous helping of whipped cream). Talk about the perfect after-ballet indulgence!
Thursday found me in a blissful state of ballerina-induced relaxation, sipping cappuccino at one of Vienna’s iconic coffee houses. What I love about Vienna is the relaxed pace of life - a delightful contrast to my hectic London schedule! There’s a sense of calm appreciation for the finer things, a time to simply enjoy the beautiful surroundings. This mood sparked my inspiration for the afternoon – a little shopping adventure!
Shopping in Vienna is a sheer delight! I particularly adore the Kärtner Straße – a cobblestone haven of designer boutiques and vintage gems. The elegant window displays and the atmosphere of quiet luxury are a feast for my fashionista soul. And while I may have a penchant for the grand designer pieces, let's face it, a girl needs her bargain finds too. I spent the afternoon hunting through some lovely little boutiques on the side streets, finding a collection of vintage blouses (oh, I’ve found my new spring wardrobe staples!) and a perfect addition to my tutu collection – a pale rose pink silk creation with exquisite embellishments, fit for a Viennese ballerina, of course!
But my Viennese ballet pilgrimage wouldn’t be complete without delving into its rich history! On Friday, I found myself strolling through the Schönbrunn Palace Gardens. While the Palace itself is undoubtedly grand and stunning, it was the garden that truly took my breath away. It's an exquisite oasis of serenity amidst the vibrant cityscape, and I imagine how magical it must have been when Mozart himself would have strolled its paths!
Of course, the heart of ballet's history lies within the magnificent Vienna State Opera House. On Saturday, I had the incredible experience of taking a backstage tour, getting a glimpse of the inner workings of this legendary institution. It was simply awe-inspiring to walk the corridors that legendary ballerinas have graced and peek into the rehearsal rooms, filled with echoes of elegant pirouettes and graceful leaps.
As I bid farewell to Vienna on Sunday evening, I felt an immense sense of fulfilment. The city’s history, beauty, and enchanting ambiance have deeply enriched my heart and soul. The vibrant performances, the delightful shopping experiences, the beautiful architecture – it was a whirlwind of captivating moments, and I left with a promise to myself to return.
So, my fellow tutudists, what are your favourite things about Vienna? And where should I travel to next? I’d love to hear from you! Leave a comment on the website or find me on Instagram, #PinkTutuVienna – your comments are my fuel for finding new adventures, and maybe, just maybe, I’ll see you out there in your own pink tutu.
Until next week, darling tutudists!
XOXO, Emma
P.S. If you’re in Vienna and looking for a truly special place to indulge your inner fashionista, check out the Salon Zur Oper boutique. They have an extraordinary selection of vintage couture and handmade items – I discovered a divine pearl necklace that’s now my newest treasure!
