On the western side of the capital, stretching over seven districts, the Vienna Woods are considered the green lung of Vienna. Easily reached with public transportation and perfect for a daytime excursion, the area offers great hiking trails, old castles and monasteries, a rich fauna and plenty of picturesque vineyard villages. Whether you decide to explore the area with one of the guided tours or by yourself, make sure you don't miss the exquisite regional gastronomy and the overwhelming views over the city and the last foothills of the Alps.

The Onze-Lieve-Vrouwekerk (Church of Our Lady), with its imposing 115.5-metre high brick tower, is not only a fine testimony to the skill of the Bruges master builders of yesteryear, but is also the second tallest brick church spire in the world. Inside the church visitors will be moved by the magnificence of Michelangelo’s white marble Madonna and Child.

The embankment walls of the Danube Canal form a single, giant canvas. The area is open to graffiti artists who have turned the concrete walls into their very own art gallery in Vienna. From generic scribbles to political messages and intricate artworks: stroll along the banks and explore this tangible example of Viennese cultural life. For the most interesting works, walk down the track between Schwedenplatz and Schottenring.

The Jervis Bay area features several lakes, inlets and calm surf beaches from where you can begin a stand-up paddleboarding adventure. Most locations have nearby parking if you're bringing your own paddleboard, or there are several operators along the coast offering rental, tours and private or group lessons. Paddleboarding in the Jervis Bay Marine Park gives you the chance to be surrounded by colourful sea life including dolphins, eagle rays, penguins, fish and birds.