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Stephansplatz

One of the most important squares in the city center of Vienna is Stephansplatz. Not only does this mark the official "kilometer zero" of the Austrian Capital but it has a place in the hearts and history of the people of the city that is not forgotten and always apparent.

Most important for visitors to the city it is a central stopping point on the U-Bahn both for changing lines and also for accessing so much of the city that is within walking distance.

History

Originally only half the size the square was expanded when a row of houses separating it from Stock-im-Eisen-Platz, today the two areas are considered one.

Outside the original city walls the platz became part of the city in around 1200 but it wasn't until 1978 with the opening of the U-Bahn station that the square became central to the city.

Getting there

Stephansplatz is in easy walking distance from the Naschmarkt, at a little over 1km it will take less than 20 minutes to walk and the route is an interesting one past many of the important buildings of the city.  First walk to the northen end of Naschmarkt beside Karlsplatz. Go to the right of the Novomatic Forum and take the pedestrian crossing into the Karlsplatz itself. Stay on the right side of the road, not so at the end of Karlsplatz it is simple to cross once, then turn left and cross again and again onto Opernpassage. Keep walking staright ahead and pass the Opera, Dorotheum, Hotel Astoria and continue on Karntne Strasse. Simply continue on this same road until it meets Stephansplatz, the spire of the Cathedral above you tells you when you have arrived.

Sights

As well as the square itself of course the main reason people come to the Stephansplatz is the St Stephan's Cathedral itself, this massive gothic.  Also don't miss out on the Diözesanmuseum which is the Cathedral Museum of the Archdiocese of Vienna, and also overlooking the square is the Kaffeemuseum Wien which tells the story of how Coffee became such as integral part of Vienna.

Shopping

The Kärntnerstrasse which was on the route from Naschmarkt to Stephansplatz is itself one of the main shopping roads of the city, but also leading out of the square are the important Graben which is the most upmarket street in the city. And beyond that it leads to the Kohlmarkt where all major brands both international and local can be found.

Staying

Of course the ultimate in staying near here is to stay overlooking the Cathedral itself by taking a room at Hotel am Stephansplatz, a modern business hotel in a traditional building in this perfect location it offers luxurious rooms with grand views from the upper floors. Well heated rooms keep you warm in the winter, while shower and bath in the room as well as a fitness center and small sauna in the building make for a luxurious stay.

Alternatively the DO & CO Hotel also in the square itself is a modern 43 room hotel in a piece of stunning modern arcitecture that contrasts and complements the historic buildings around it.

SHOPPING AND FOOD

Originally a fresh produce market the Naschmarkt today is a key open dining area. So whether you want to sit, eat, and people-watch, or buy ready-made dishes to take away, or fresh produce to create your own culinary masterpieces this is the place to visit

 
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