Embark on a journey from Auckland, New Zealand, to the captivating city of Vienna, Austria. Vienna, a city steeped in history and culture, offers a unique blend of imperial grandeur, artistic masterpieces, and vibrant modern life. Its iconic landmarks, such as the Schönbrunn Palace and St. Stephen's Cathedral, beckon travellers, while its rich musical heritage, including the Vienna State Opera and the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra, enchants music lovers. For nature enthusiasts, the Danube River offers scenic landscapes and opportunities for relaxation. A trip to Vienna provides an unforgettable experience, combining historical exploration with contemporary delights.

Direct flights from Auckland to Vienna are not typically available, so you will need to have at least one stopover. The average flight duration with one stopover ranges from 24-28 hours, depending on your choice of airlines and stopover location. The actual flight time will also be influenced by factors such as weather conditions, air traffic, and potential delays. Popular airlines that offer routes including Auckland-Vienna are usually Singapore Airlines and Air New Zealand, sometimes with one or more stopovers.

Many travellers opt for stopover cities like Singapore, Doha or Dubai, offering a chance to explore another location. This adds to the overall travel time but can make the long journey more enjoyable. You might also explore different flight paths through various stopover hubs such as Hong Kong, Tokyo or London, all depending on flight availability. The best time to book your flights for the most cost-effective deals depends on your travel flexibility. Generally, booking in advance, particularly during the off-peak months of November to March, can help secure more budget-friendly options. Airfares tend to fluctuate based on factors such as seasonal demand and holidays, with peak travel times such as July and August usually more expensive.

While Vienna is a year-round destination, the peak travel season falls during the summer months (June to August) and during the Christmas market period in December. During these periods, you may find higher prices for flights and accommodation, and larger crowds at tourist attractions. The quieter months are typically from November to March, when the weather is colder but the city retains its charm with festive markets and fewer crowds. It's ideal to consider these factors to select the cheapest time that best suits your travel style and budget.

Vienna experiences a continental climate with four distinct seasons. Summers (June-August) are warm, with average temperatures around 21°C, but can reach highs of 30°C or more. Evenings tend to remain pleasant, cooling down to around 20°C. Winters (December-February) are cold, with average temperatures near 0°C, and snow is possible. Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) offer mild and pleasant temperatures, making them ideal times to visit for sightseeing, as they often strike a good balance between pleasant weather and moderate tourist crowds. Rain is possible at any time of the year but is slightly more frequent in the summer months, and there is less rainfall in the autumn and winter periods. Expect sunny days in the summer, with sunshine hours reaching 9 hours on average during the month of July. The air humidity will be higher in the summer, reaching around 71%. The average wind speed remains relatively consistent throughout the year, around 14km/h.

Auckland has two major airports that are currently operational and serve commercial flights: Auckland Airport and Ardmore Airport.

Auckland Airport

Auckland Airport (AKL) is the largest airport in New Zealand, a major international hub and serves as the main gateway for flights to and from Vienna. It's a modern facility with multiple terminals, serving numerous international and domestic airlines. Opened in 1966, it has undergone continuous expansion and renovations to meet the growing demands of air travel, including most recently the completion of a major upgrade to the international terminal in 2017. The airport has hosted numerous airlines and provides flights to a large number of destinations worldwide.

Ardmore Airport

Ardmore Airport (ACM) is a smaller, general aviation airport located south of Auckland. While it primarily handles domestic flights and general aviation traffic, it also provides access to some smaller airlines and serves private and charter flights. It may also provide easier access to your chosen airline and destination, depending on the time and the airline you have chosen to fly with.

Main airlines for this route

• Singapore Airlines
• Air New Zealand
• Lufthansa

Vienna boasts one major international airport that serves commercial flights: Vienna International Airport.

Vienna International Airport

Vienna International Airport (VIE), also known as Schwechat Airport, is the primary airport serving Vienna and Austria. It's a modern and efficient airport with two terminals, handling a high volume of international and domestic flights. Opened in 1938, this major international hub has gone through multiple expansions, with new facilities such as the recently built Terminal 3. It's located around 18km from the city centre. From the airport, you can reach the city centre conveniently using various options such as the City Airport Train (CAT), which is a direct rail link, the S7 rapid transit train, taxis, or private car hire. These choices offer various levels of speed and comfort, depending on your travel preference.

Vienna, a city of imperial elegance and vibrant culture, offers a wealth of experiences for every traveller. From its historic palaces to its world-class museums, Vienna has something to captivate everyone.

• Schönbrunn Palace: Explore the opulent summer residence of the Habsburg emperors, admiring its stunning architecture, vast gardens, and rich history.
• Hofburg Palace: Discover the winter residence of the Habsburgs, a sprawling complex housing museums, chapels, and state apartments, showcasing centuries of Austrian history and royal life.
• St. Stephen's Cathedral: Marvel at the iconic Gothic architecture of St. Stephen's Cathedral, climbing its south tower for panoramic views of the city and visiting the catacombs beneath.