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Vienna and Berlin--Does Appeal Depend (At Least A Tad) On Age?

This question probably concerns not a trip in the next few months, but a future trip to Europe. However, two cities that we considered visiting--and probably cannot because of distance--are Berlin and Vienna.

But my sense is that Vienna with its cleanliness and classical music and slower pace appeals to the older travelers whereas Berlin with its more diverse nightlife and social and economic vigor appeals to the younger travelers.

Perhaps the question is unfairly simplistic or the answer rather obvious, but am I correct in saying that the extent of the appeal of these two different cities is--as a general statement--dependent on traveler age. That is, younger people will gravitate to Berlin and the older will appreciate more Vienna.

Posted by
521 posts

Hi Richard,

I think that although it may be true that people of certain ages will progress towards one city or another, I think it is more true to say that people will choose different activities within each city based on their personal preferences rather than simply age. I was backpacking in Vienna this summer and there were a number of us younger people there. It is true that not all of us went out to see opera in the evening, but everyone of all ages went to see the palaces and Saint Stephen's Cathedral during the day. There were plenty of other places for a more party-interested crowd to go in the evening.

Cities like Vienna - and certainly a city the size of Berlin - are robust enough to offer activities for everyone. People of all ages enjoy the major sites, it is usually just the nightlife that varies more by age.

Posted by
12040 posts

... and Berlin is no slouch in the classical music department either. It probably has less concerts aimed at tourists, but as far as serious music, few cities in the world can compare.

Posted by
9220 posts

I am 53 and I think Berlin is fantastic and cannot wait to go back. I have not been to Vienna, so cannot compare, but there are wonderful things for all ages in every city.

Posted by
3262 posts

My husband and I are 56+ and we went to Berlin for the first time last March. We had a great time--we loved the museums, the restaurants, the shopping, and the ease of getting around the city on the excellent transportation system. We also like Vienna but Berlin just seemed more fun to us--more to see, more to do and more lively!

Posted by
881 posts

I'd say that is "generally" true Richard (as far as in general goes.. hehe), but Vienna does have a vibrant and wild night life if one looks for it. I stayed at 1 particular hostel, and had a great time - most of which I don't remember if you catch my drift... LOL That being said, I do also think older folks would "generally" like Vienna more: the Opera, the Waltz show, the symphonies, cafe dining, the palaces, Vienna Boys Choir, etc, etc I know it appeals to my 70 yr old parents.

Posted by
1358 posts

Berlin has the Berlin Philharmonic, which, as a classical musician myself, just the mention of it will make any classical musicians' mouth water. But it doesn't cater to the tourist scene, so many tourists won't even know about it.

Posted by
1358 posts

After traveling 3,000 miles to get to Europe what is 326 miles from Berlin to Vienna? That is comparable to driving from Lafayette to Dallas.

Those two cities are so much different that you almost HAVE TO visit both to appreciate each. You are right the answer is obvious. Age should not even be considered and I am 84.

Visit both cities and a month after you get home, ask yourself why you ever questioned not doing that.

Posted by
3262 posts

Carl makes an excellent point!

You're my hero Carl--I hope that I'll still be traveling when I'm 84!

Posted by
239 posts

Richard,

I think Vienna is great for all ages. My husband and I loved it! We are in our early 40's. We aren't even big fans of classical music:) It has a great cafe scene, heuringers and is a beautiful city. We are headed back this year and to Berlin as well. I think Berlin could appeal to old or young because of the history. Just my two-cents!

Posted by
17 posts

BTW, in May I will be flying into Vienna and out of Berlin. If you don't have plane tickets already, look into "open jaw" tickets.