For a fun afternoon in Vienna, nothing will beat the Haus Der Musik. For those with and without musical prowess, this music museum-cum-musical playground allows you to explore the science and history of music without the need for a PhD.

See the colour and shape of your voice, play giant instruments or even conduct a virtual orchestra - a museum with a difference, definitely.

Seilerstätte 30, A-1010, Vienna
www.hdm.at/en/2.htm

Google map: tinyurl.com/ly8cdo

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A trip to Vienna is not complete without visiting the Prater and riding on the Riesenrad (ferris wheel). When you are up there in the rustic red carriages you can look down and see all the rides and people, and on a dark night you can almost hear the Harry Lime tune cranking away in the background . . .

Google map: tinyurl.com/lhnx8a

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Large butterfly house situated in a lovely old greenhouse in the Burggarten. Recommended especially for children and on a cold day.

In the Burggarten; tel: 533 8570, U-Bahn Karlsplatz; www.schmetterlinghaus.at

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A couple of the trams follow the Ringstrasse around central Vienna. I remember doing this on an early Sunday morning (whilst most good Viennese are still in bed or at early Mass). It's the best way to see the huge changes to the city made in the 19th-century, including the Opera House, the Rauthaus and other institutions built as part of Frank Josef II's reimagining of his imperial city. Also a good place to flirt and smile at the Viennese.

Any tram stop on the Ringstrasse

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Spectacular palace and gardens. The journey to the top of the hill is rewarded by a fine cafe. The world's oldest zoo is here too, a great place to take the kids.

U-Bahn Schönbrunn

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The palace is the former home of the emperor of the Austrian empire, and is open to the public for guided tours. It is the grandest palace that I have ever seen, and a fine example of how Vienna used to be. In contrast to the faded grandeur of much of Vienna city centre, this palace has been restored to its full glory, and is a must on any visit to the city. The gardens by themselves are worth making the trip for and, unlike the guided tours, are free.

Take the U4 (green) underground line towards Hutteldorf. Alight at Schonbrunn station and follow the signs
Schloß Schönbrunn, 1130 Wien; Tel: +43-1-81113 0; www.schoenbrunn.at

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We enjoyed the children's museum at the Schonbrunn Palace - even our terminally bored 12-year old thought it was cool - dressing up opportunities and lots of things to touch (and smell!). Lunch in the cafe was good, too - vegetarian options and the "Hapsburger" for the kids.

On a snowy day, the palm house was wonderfully warm.

13, Schönbrunner Schlossstrasse;
www.schoenbrunn.at/en/site/publicdir/

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Vast and stimulating museum about the world of technology, housed in a beautiful 19th-century building. There is a brilliant section (the "Mini") for small children.

Mariahilferstrasse 212; tel: 899 98, U-Bahn Schönbrunn; www.tmw.at

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If you have young kids, they'll love this park, with little train, zoo, trampolines, the best ever adventure playground and acres of trees. The view from the 250m-high tower is amazing, including the bungee jumpers.

www.wien.gv.at/english/parks/donaupen.htm
Metro U1 Alte Donau

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A new exhibition has opened in the Stadthalle. It shows us how the world is experienced by blind people every day. By entering an absolutely dark room with usual every-day equipment, you "see" through the eyes of a blind person. It's amazing how important all our other sins are, when we can't rely on our eyes anymore.

Vogelweidplatz 14
A-1150 Wien
Telefon (+43 1) 98 100/0
www.stadthalle.at
underground station: U6 Burggasse/Stadthalle

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What a contrast to the stuffy reputation of this city's music life.

Only a small exhibition about the history of the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra perpetuates the traditional image. The rest is hi-tech, interactive fun around all aspects of music, guaranteed to inform and amuse all ages. Adults may like to exploit the late opening times, when the place is often free of kids and you can indulge your wish to play with all the sound sources.

Haus der Musik, Seilerstätte 30, A-1010, Wien; tel: 43 1 516 48; www.hdm.at

OPENING HOURS
Daily, 10 a.m. – 10 p.m.

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