Here’s where you can slow things down, get away from all the bustling activity of the streets of Vienna and take a deep breath. Enjoy the colorful spring in the green surroundings!

Türkenschanzpark is what many call the most beautiful park in the city. It has it all: small pathways, ponds, rolling hills, and rare botanical plants. In terms of area, the most significant recreational zones in the city are Donauinsel and Prater. Danube Island is perfect for endless walks (with your dog), an extended bike ride, a swim, or BBQ sessions. Prater, more centrally located, is to Viennese what Central Park is to New Yorkers.

Stadtpark is another big garden with not only the tourist-attracting statue of Johann Strauss but also grass you’re actually allowed to lie down on, and a scenic pond.

Setagaya Park, a quiet little Japanese garden, is a bit out of the way. Can you spot the turtles in the above photo? The town twinning between Vienna’s 19th district and Tokyo’s suburb Setagaya has existed now for many years. Come here to find inner peace.