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 and the warm sun, just like the turtles in the above picture!

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 a scenic pond and bridge across Wien Fluss.

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