With its woodland surrounds, historic Biedermeier architecture and sulphurous mineral springs, it’s easy to see why Baden bei Wien has been enchanting visitors for centuries. The settlement is one of Austria’s most coveted spa towns and offers visitors a first-hand glimpse at how well-heeled Europeans like to unwind.
The spas of Baden bei Wien are renowned for their therapeutic properties, with ancient Romans flocking to bathe in the medicinal waters. Austria’s royal House of Habsburg family favoured Baden bei Wien as a summer retreat during the 19th century, with Beethoven himself even visiting the town in search of a cure for his deafness.
Baden bei Wien is perched on the eastern fringes of the Wienerwald, a forested highland region also known as the Vienna Woods. The Süd Autobahn links Baden bei Wien with wider Austria, and its own railway station also services the town. From Vienna, the journey by car or public transport takes just half an hour. Once in town, the walk from the station to the town centre is around 15-minutes.
Some traces of Roman settlement remain, with ruins of Heiligenkreuz Abbey dating back to the 11th century. However, the Germanic influence is far more profound, with much of the town centre constructed in traditional Biedermeier style. Combined with the town’s forested backdrop, the landscape of Baden bei Wien is enchanting and picturesque.