Finest cities to go to in Austria provides a wealth of cultural, historic, and pure magnificence. From the grand palaces and church buildings of Vienna to the picturesque lakes and mountains of Salzburg, every metropolis has its personal distinctive character that’s ready to be explored.
The Austrians have a wealthy historical past that spans hundreds of years, with varied civilizations and empires leaving their mark on the nation. Because of this, the cities of Austria are full of beautiful structure, world-class museums, and vibrant cultural scenes that make for an unforgettable expertise.
Austria’s Wealthy Cultural Heritage: Exploring Vienna, Salzburg, and Innsbruck
Nestled within the coronary heart of Central Europe, Austria is a land of breathtaking magnificence, with a wealthy cultural heritage that spans hundreds of years. From the grand palaces and opera homes of Vienna to the picturesque Alpine landscapes of Salzburg and Innsbruck, every metropolis in Austria tells a novel story of artwork, music, and historical past. The nation’s strategic location on the crossroads of Europe has made it a melting pot of cultures, with influences from the Romans, the Holy Roman Empire, and the Habsburg dynasty contributing to its distinctive character.
The Cultural Significance of Vienna
Vienna, the capital metropolis of Austria, is a treasure trove of cultural and historic significance. As the previous capital of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, Vienna was a significant heart of politics, artwork, and music from the sixteenth to the twentieth centuries. Town’s grand palaces, opera homes, and museums are testaments to its wonderful previous.
- Among the notable landmarks and museums embody:
- The Schönbrunn Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Web site and former imperial summer time residence, providing beautiful gardens and structure.
- The Vienna State Opera, one of many world’s main opera homes, internet hosting performances of classical and up to date opera, ballet, and live performance.
- The Kunsthistorisches Museum, residence to an intensive assortment of artwork and artifacts from the Habsburg dynasty, together with works by Rubens, Velázquez, and Rembrandt.
Vienna’s cultural significance extends to its espresso tradition, with grand cafes and coffeehouses serving as well-liked gathering locations for artists, intellectuals, and politicians.
The Musical Heritage of Salzburg
Salzburg, birthplace of the famend Mozart household, is a metropolis steeped in musical heritage. Town’s picturesque streets and squares are full of the sound of music, from the majestic domes of the Cathedral of Salzburg to the charming streets of the Getreidegasse purchasing district.
- Among the notable music-related landmarks embody:
- The Hohensalzburg Fortress, an impressive medieval fortress perched atop a hill, providing breathtaking views of the town and surrounding countryside.
- The Mirabell Palace and Gardens, a shocking Baroque palace and gardens that impressed the settings of a number of Mozart operas.
- The Salzburg Competition, a premier cultural occasion held yearly since 1920, showcasing classical music, opera, and theater performances.
Salzburg’s musical heritage extends to its reference to well-known composers, together with Mozart, Haydn, and Leopold Mozart, whose lives and works are remembered and celebrated all through the town.
The Winter Sports activities Resort of Innsbruck
Innsbruck, the capital of the Tyrol area, is a well-liked winter sports activities resort and a UNESCO World Heritage Web site. Town’s beautiful location within the coronary heart of the Alps provides unparalleled alternatives for snowboarding, snowboarding, and different winter sports activities.
- Among the notable landmarks and points of interest embody:
- The Nordkette mountain vary, providing breathtaking views and difficult snowboarding and snowboarding slopes.
- The Innsbruck Olympisches Dorf, a posh of buildings constructed for the 1964 Winter Olympics, now housing a museum and exhibition heart.
- The Golden Roof (Goldenes Dachl), a ornate Gothic balcony adorned with gilded particulars and overlooking the historic city heart.
Innsbruck’s winter sports activities heritage extends to its reference to the Olympic Video games, having hosted the Winter Olympics in 1964 and 1976.
Should-Go to Cities in Austria
Austria is a rustic that seamlessly blends custom and modernity, making it a dream vacation spot for vacationers. From the grand palaces and opera homes to the picturesque lakes and mountains, Austria has one thing to supply for each sort of traveler. Listed below are the highest 5 must-visit cities in Austria that you just can’t miss.
Prime 5 Should-Go to Cities in Austria
Along with the beforehand talked about cities like Vienna, Salzburg, and Innsbruck, there are quite a few different lovely cities to discover in Austria, every with its personal distinctive appeal and points of interest.
Vienna – The Music Capital of the World
Vienna, the capital metropolis of Austria, is known for its wealthy musical heritage and beautiful structure. Town is residence to the celebrated Vienna State Opera, the place a few of the world’s most well-known operas are carried out. Guests can even discover the grand palaces and gardens, such because the Schönbrunn Palace and the Belvedere Palace, that are a testomony to the town’s wealthy historical past and cultural heritage. Town’s vibrant cultural scene can also be mirrored in its many museums, galleries, and festivals.
- The Vienna State Opera is among the world’s most well-known opera homes, with a repertoire that features works by Mozart, Strauss, and Verdi.
- The Schönbrunn Palace is a UNESCO World Heritage Web site and one among Austria’s hottest vacationer points of interest, with over 1,500 rooms and a shocking Baroque backyard.
- The Belvedere Palace is a Baroque palace that’s residence to an intensive assortment of Austrian and European artwork, together with works by Monet, Van Gogh, and Rubens.
- The Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra is among the world’s main classical music ensembles, with a repertoire that features performances by a few of the world’s most well-known composers.
Salzburg – The Birthplace of Mozart
Salzburg, a picturesque metropolis within the Austrian state of Salzburgerland, is known for being the birthplace of the world-renowned composer Mozart. Town is a treasure trove of Baroque structure, with lovely palaces, church buildings, and gardens. Guests can discover the Salzburg Cathedral, a shocking Baroque church that’s residence to the Tomb of St. Virgil, and the Hohensalzburg Fortress, a medieval fortress that gives breathtaking views of the town.
- The Salzburg Cathedral is a shocking instance of Baroque structure, with a particular dome and a wonderful inside.
- The Hohensalzburg Fortress is a medieval fortress that has been rebuilt a number of occasions over the centuries and provides breathtaking views of the town.
- Salzburg is the birthplace of Mozart and is residence to quite a few museums and exhibitions devoted to the life and work of the well-known composer.
- Town’s picturesque Outdated City is a treasure trove of Baroque structure, with lovely palaces, church buildings, and gardens.
Innsbruck – The Capital of the Alps
Innsbruck, a captivating metropolis within the Austrian state of Tyrol, is nestled within the coronary heart of the Alps and is a well-liked vacation spot for skiers and snowboarders. Town can also be recognized for its wealthy historical past and cultural heritage, with quite a few museums, galleries, and festivals. Guests can discover the historic metropolis heart, a UNESCO World Heritage Web site, and the Nordkette mountains, which provide breathtaking views of the town.
- The historic metropolis heart is a UNESCO World Heritage Web site and options lovely Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque structure.
- The Nordkette mountains supply breathtaking views of the town and are a well-liked vacation spot for hikers and mountain climbers.
- The Altes Landhaus is a wonderful Gothic palace that’s now residence to the Tyrolean State Museum.
- The Innsbruck Cathedral is a wonderful Baroque church that’s residence to the tomb of Emperor Maximilian I.
Graz – The Cultural Capital of Austria
Graz, a captivating metropolis within the Austrian state of Styria, is thought for its wealthy cultural heritage and vibrant arts scene. Town is residence to quite a few museums, galleries, and festivals, together with the Styrian Autumn, a well-liked competition that celebrates music, theater, and dance. Guests can discover the historic metropolis heart, a UNESCO World Heritage Web site, and the picturesque Schlossberg, a hill that gives breathtaking views of the town.
- The historic metropolis heart is a UNESCO World Heritage Web site and options lovely Baroque structure.
- The Styrian Autumn is a well-liked competition that celebrates music, theater, and dance.
- The Schlossberg is a picturesque hill that gives breathtaking views of the town.
- The Kunsthaus Graz is a contemporary artwork museum that includes a placing design and a group of up to date artwork.
Linz – The Metropolis of Tradition
Linz, a captivating metropolis within the Austrian state of Higher Austria, is thought for its wealthy cultural heritage and vibrant arts scene. Town is residence to quite a few museums, galleries, and festivals, together with the Linz Competition, a well-liked occasion that celebrates music, theater, and dance. Guests can discover the historic metropolis heart, a UNESCO World Heritage Web site, and the picturesque River Danube, which runs by the guts of the town.
- The historic metropolis heart is a UNESCO World Heritage Web site and options lovely Baroque structure.
- The Linz Competition is a well-liked occasion that celebrates music, theater, and dance.
- The River Danube runs by the guts of the town and provides lovely views and leisure actions.
- The Lentos Artwork Museum is a contemporary artwork museum that includes a placing design and a group of up to date artwork.
Hidden Gems in Austrian Cities
Past the well-known cities of Vienna, Salzburg, and Innsbruck, Austria’s panorama provides a mess of lesser-known cities ready to be explored. These hidden gems, whereas maybe much less crowded than their well-known counterparts, possess an plain appeal and authenticity that can go away guests captivated.
Uncover the Renaissance Fantastic thing about Graz
Tucked away in southern Austria lies the historic metropolis of Graz, a treasure trove of Renaissance structure and hidden alleys. Because the capital of the state and a UNESCO World Heritage Web site, Graz boasts a formidable array of grand buildings, museums, and cultural establishments. Town’s picturesque outdated city is residence to the enduring Graz Cathedral, a powerful instance of Gothic structure that dominates the town’s skyline. Guests can discover the encircling neighborhoods, admiring the richly adorned facades and tranquil courtyards that give Graz its distinctive character.
- Graz’s historic heart, a testomony to the town’s wealthy historical past, is full of picturesque squares, grand palaces, and imposing church buildings.
- Do not miss the beautiful Mausoleum of Emperor Ferdinand II, an imposing monument nestled inside the picturesque Eggenberg Palace grounds.
- Town’s quite a few festivals and occasions, together with the Graz Competition and the Steirischer Herbst, supply a glimpse into the town’s vibrant cultural scene.
Linz: Industrial Heritage Meets Creative Aptitude, Finest cities to go to in austria
Situated in Higher Austria, Linz has undergone important transformation over time, rising as a thriving cultural heart with an progressive spirit. Town’s historic core is dominated by the imposing Linz Cathedral, a 14th-century development showcasing placing Romanesque and Gothic influences. Guests can discover the Linz Outdated City, taking within the picturesque riverbank and energetic pedestrian zones.
- The Linz Ars Electronica Centre is a must-visit attraction, that includes beautiful digital artwork installations, interactive media exhibitions, and an array of workshops and occasions.
- Linz’s vibrant music scene is represented by the Linz Symphony Orchestra, which performs on the spectacular Brucknerhaus live performance corridor.
- For a glimpse into the area’s industrial previous, do not miss the Linz Railway Museum, showcasing a formidable assortment of historic locomotives and trains.
Krems: The Hidden Treasure of the Wachau Valley
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Krems: The Hidden Treasure of the Wachau Valley
Perched alongside the picturesque Danube River within the Wachau Valley lies the charming city of Krems, a real gem ready to be found. This historical city boasts a wealthy historical past, as evidenced by the well-preserved medieval structure and picturesque streetscapes. Guests can meander by the slim alleys, taking within the sights, sounds, and fragrances of this charming city.
- The historic heart, a labyrinth of cobblestone streets and half-timbered homes, is a deal with for photographers and historical past buffs alike.
- Do not miss the spectacular Krems Cathedral, a shocking instance of Gothic structure with intricate stone carvings and a hovering roof.
- The city’s charming marketplaces supply contemporary produce, native handicrafts, and an opportunity to pattern a few of the area’s famend delicacies.
Uncover the Hidden Charming Metropolis of Hallstatt
Situated within the Salzkammergut area, Hallstatt is a tiny village with a inhabitants of lower than 800 inhabitants, but it boasts an unparalleled pure magnificence and wealthy cultural heritage. This picturesque village sits on the shores of Hallstätter See Lake, providing breathtaking views and tranquil environment. The long-lasting Hallstatt Museum showcases the area’s historical salt mining historical past and gives perception into the lives of the village’s residents.
- The Hallstatt village is a testomony to conventional Austrian structure, with completely preserved salt miners’ homes and an historical cemetery.
- The beautiful St. Michael’s Church, perched on a hill overlooking the village, provides panoramic views of the encircling panorama.
- A ship journey on Hallstätter See Lake gives a novel perspective on the village, highlighting its appeal and wonder from the water.
Out of doors Actions in Austrian Cities
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Austria’s cities are cradled within the lap of nature, surrounded by majestic mountains, serene lakes, and picturesque forests. The nation’s distinctive geography has created a treasure trove of out of doors leisure alternatives, excellent for adventure-seekers and nature lovers. From leisurely strolls to adrenaline-pumping actions, Austrian cities supply an unforgettable expertise for all.
Climbing Trails
Austria is famend for its intensive mountain climbing trails, which wind by its picturesque mountains, valleys, and lakes. The nation’s distinctive topography has created a various vary of mountain climbing trails, catering to all ranges of hikers. From leisurely strolls by the Tyrolean Alps to difficult treks by the Salzkammergut mountains, Austria’s mountain climbing trails supply breathtaking views, pristine landscapes, and an opportunity to immerse oneself within the nation’s untouched magnificence.
- Niederalplbahn: A scenic cable automotive journey by the Dachstein Mountains, providing breathtaking views of glaciers, waterfalls, and alpine lakes.
- Lech Zürs Ski Resort: A world-renowned ski resort, providing difficult slopes, serene surroundings, and an opportunity to ski by the rolling hills of the Alps.
- Wachau Valley: A picturesque valley alongside the Danube River, providing leisurely hikes, biking routes, and beautiful views of the encircling mountains and vineyards.
Biking Routes
Austria’s cities supply a plethora of biking routes, catering to all ranges of cyclists. From leisurely rides by the countryside to difficult mountain trails, Austrian cities present an unforgettable biking expertise. The nation’s scenic roads, rolling hills, and mountainous terrain have created a various vary of biking routes, excellent for adventure-seekers, households, and nature lovers.
- Wienerwald Path: A scenic bike path that winds by the Wienerwald Forest, providing a glimpse into Austria’s pure magnificence and historic landmarks.
- Salzkammergut Circuit: A difficult bike tour that takes riders by the picturesque Salzkammergut area, providing breathtaking views of lakes, mountains, and valleys.
- Vorarlberg Cycle Path: A leisurely bike route that takes riders by the picturesque Vorarlberg area, providing beautiful views of the encircling mountains and countryside.
Water Sports activities
Austria’s lakes and rivers supply a variety of water sports activities, excellent for adventure-seekers, households, and nature lovers. From crusing and kayaking to paddleboarding and rafting, Austrian cities present an unforgettable water sports activities expertise.
| Metropolis | Climbing Trails | Biking Routes | Water Sports activities |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vienna | Niederalplbahn | Wienerwald Path | Crusing and Kayaking on the Danube River |
| Salzburg | Salzkammergut Circuit | Salzburg Path | Paddleboarding and Rafting on the Salzach River |
| Innsbruck | Lech Zürs Ski Resort | Vorarlberg Cycle Path | Mountain Tubing and Whitewater Rafting on the Inn River |
Cultural Experiences in Austrian Cities

Austria is residence to a wealthy cultural heritage, with a deep appreciation for the humanities, music, and conventional festivals. The nation’s cultural experiences are formed by its historical past, geography, and the distinctive traditions of its individuals. From the grand opera homes to the comfy people music taverns, Austrian cities supply a various vary of cultural experiences that cater to completely different tastes and pursuits.
The Significance of Music in Austrian Tradition
Music has all the time performed a big position in Austrian tradition, with the nation boasting an extended custom of manufacturing world-renowned composers, musicians, and opera homes. The likes of Mozart, Strauss, and Mahler have left an indelible mark on the nation’s musical panorama, with their works persevering with to encourage and uplift audiences to this present day. Austrian music is characterised by its distinctive mix of classical, people, and opera traditions, making it a captivating and enriching expertise for music lovers.
Festivals and Occasions in Austrian Cities
Austria is thought for its vibrant competition scene, with every metropolis internet hosting its personal distinctive occasions and celebrations. The Salzburg Competition, as an example, is among the most well-known cultural occasions on this planet, attracting guests from far and vast to expertise the nation’s wealthy musical heritage. The competition, which takes place in July and August, includes a program of operas, concert events, and drama performances, showcasing the work of a few of the world’s most famed artists.
Distinctive Cultural Experiences in Austrian Cities
- Vienna: Expertise the grandeur of the Vienna State Opera, the place you possibly can watch a efficiency of one of many world’s most well-known operas. Or, go to the Mozart Museum to be taught extra concerning the life and works of this musical genius.
- Salzburg: Discover the historic metropolis heart, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Web site. Go to the beautiful Hohensalzburg Fortress, which provides breathtaking views of the town and the encircling mountains.
- Innsbruck: Uncover the distinctive Alpine tradition of the Tyrolean area, the place you possibly can expertise conventional people music, dance, and delicacies. Go to the Hofburg Palace, the previous residence of the Habsburg emperors, which now homes a spread of museums and cultural points of interest.
People Music and Dance in Austrian Cities
Austria’s people music and dance traditions are an integral a part of the nation’s cultural id. From the energetic polkas and waltzes of the Viennese operetta to the extra subdued, rustic melodies of the Alpine people music, every area has its personal distinctive musical heritage. Within the evenings, many Austrian cities come alive with conventional people music and dance performances, providing guests an opportunity to expertise the nation’s genuine cultural traditions.
Theatre and Efficiency in Austrian Cities
Austria is residence to a thriving theatrical scene, with many cities that includes a spread of efficiency venues and festivals. From the grand opera homes to the extra intimate, experimental theaters, there’s all the time one thing to see and expertise in Austrian cities. Whether or not you are a fan of classical drama or up to date efficiency artwork, Austria has one thing for everybody.
Conventional Festivals and Celebrations in Austrian Cities
Austria’s conventional festivals and celebrations are an integral a part of the nation’s cultural calendar. From the colourful Carnival processions to the extra solemn, reverent Easter festivals, every metropolis has its personal distinctive customs and traditions. Guests can expertise these festivals firsthand, immersing themselves within the sights, sounds, and flavors of Austria’s wealthy cultural heritage.
Austrian Delicacies: Savoring the Flavors of Tradition
Austria’s culinary scene is a mirrored image of its wealthy historical past and numerous cultural influences. From hearty meat dishes to candy pastries, Austrian delicacies provides a pleasant journey for the style buds. The nation’s strategic location on the intersection of European commerce routes has contributed to the adoption of varied culinary traditions, leading to a novel fusion of flavors.
Conventional Austrian Dishes
Austrian delicacies is thought for its emphasis on native and seasonal components, which are sometimes mixed with inventive twists to create dishes which can be each comforting and progressive. Some conventional Austrian dishes embody:
- Viennese Schnitzel: A basic Austrian dish, schnitzel consists of breaded and fried veal or pork cutlets which can be usually served with a facet of fried eggs or salad.
- Goulash: A hearty beef stew originating from Hungary, goulash has develop into a staple in Austrian delicacies, usually served with bread or noodles.
- Tafelspitz: A standard Austrian boiled beef dish that is sometimes served with apple and horseradish sauce.
- Kaiserschmarrn: A candy dessert made out of shredded pancake batter, sugar, and raisins, usually served with powdered sugar and a facet of fruit or jam.
The Significance of Espresso Tradition in Austrian Cities
Espresso has an extended historical past in Austria, relationship again to the seventeenth century when the nation’s coffeehouses turned well-liked gathering locations for intellectuals, artists, and politicians. At present, coffeehouses proceed to play an necessary position in Austrian tradition, providing a heat and welcoming environment for individuals to socialize and luxuriate in their espresso.
Should-Attempt Native Meals and Drinks
Austria is known for its scrumptious desserts like apple strudel and Sacher torte, however there’s extra to the nation’s meals scene than simply candy treats. Listed below are some native meals and drinks you need to attempt when visiting Austria:
- Apple Cider: Austria is thought for its high-quality apple cider, usually produced within the nation’s picturesque orchards.
- Schwarze Katze: A standard Austrian black cat cake made out of chocolate, espresso, and whipped cream.
- Zopf: A candy bread roll sometimes served on Sundays, usually flavored with raisins or nuts.
- Glühwein: A heat mulled wine made out of pink wine, sugar, and spices, usually served throughout the winter months.
Conventional Austrian delicacies is usually described as a mirrored image of the nation’s wealthy historical past and cultural influences. From hearty meat dishes to candy pastries, Austrian delicacies provides a pleasant journey for the style buds.
Day Journeys from Austrian Cities

Austria’s picturesque countryside and charming cities beckon guests to discover past its city hubs. Uncover the hidden gems and wealthy historical past of smaller cities and villages that dot the Austrian panorama. From fairytale-like villages to historical castles, the probabilities for day journeys from Austrian cities are huge and various.
Planning a profitable day journey requires some thought and preparation. Take into account the time of 12 months, climate situations, and transportation choices when choosing a vacation spot. Analysis the native transportation community, together with buses, trains, and automotive rental providers. E book lodging prematurely to make sure availability, particularly throughout peak journey seasons. With cautious planning, you will be free to benefit from the scenic magnificence and cultural points of interest of your chosen vacation spot.
Should-Go to Cities close to Main Cities
Lots of Austria’s most charming cities are inside day-trip distance from main cities like Vienna, Salzburg, and Innsbruck.
- Kitzbühel close to Innsbruck: Recognized for its ski resorts, Kitzbühel can also be a picturesque summer time vacation spot. Go to the historic city heart, discover the Kitzbühel Fort, and benefit from the scenic views of the encircling mountains.
- St. Gilgen close to Salzburg: This charming lakeside city boasts beautiful views of the Wolfgangsee Lake and the encircling Alps. Take a ship journey, go to the picturesque village, and luxuriate in conventional Austrian delicacies.
- Linz close to Vienna: The birthplace of famend composer Anton Bruckner, Linz provides a wealthy cultural heritage and beautiful structure. Go to the Linz Cathedral, discover the Outdated City, and luxuriate in a efficiency on the Brucknerhaus live performance corridor.
Scenic Drives and Climbing Trails
Austria’s picturesque countryside is dotted with scenic drives and mountain climbing trails that provide breathtaking views and alternatives to attach with nature.
- Wachau Valley: A UNESCO World Heritage Web site, the Wachau Valley provides beautiful views of the Danube River and surrounding vineyards. Take a scenic drive or hike by the valley, discover the traditional castles, and pattern native wines.
- Gastein Mountains: Situated close to Salzburg, the Gastein Mountains supply a spread of mountain climbing trails and scenic drives. Go to the beautiful waterfalls, discover the Gastein Valley, and chill out within the pure sizzling springs.
Villages and Small Cities
Austria’s villages and small cities are sometimes neglected however supply a glimpse into conventional Austrian life.
- Hütten: A picturesque village close to Salzburg, Hütten is known for its conventional wood homes and beautiful views of the encircling Alps. Go to the native farmers’ market, discover the village, and luxuriate in conventional Austrian delicacies.
- Krems an der Donau: An enthralling city close to Vienna, Krems is known for its wine manufacturing and beautiful structure. Go to the Krems Cathedral, discover the Outdated City, and pattern native wines.
Exploring Hidden Gems
Lots of Austria’s hidden gems are off the crushed path and require some exploration to find.
- The Salzkammergut area: Referred to as the “Austrian Switzerland,” the Salzkammergut area provides beautiful pure magnificence, picturesque villages, and a spread of out of doors actions.
- The Austrian Danube Valley: A scenic drive or hike by the Danube Valley provides breathtaking views of the encircling countryside and historical castles.
Ultimate Evaluation: Finest Cities To Go to In Austria
In conclusion, the most effective cities to go to in Austria are a real treasure trove of historical past, tradition, and pure magnificence. Whether or not you have an interest in exploring the grandeur of Vienna, the tranquility of Salzburg, or the appeal of Innsbruck, every metropolis has one thing to supply that can go away you with lifelong reminiscences.
Clarifying Questions
What are the must-visit cities in Austria?
Vienna, Salzburg, Innsbruck, Graz, and Linz are a few of the must-visit cities in Austria.
How can I plan a day journey from Austrian cities?
You possibly can plan a day journey from Austrian cities by researching close by cities and villages, checking the opening hours of points of interest, and reserving lodging prematurely.
What’s one of the best ways to expertise Austrian tradition?
One of the best ways to expertise Austrian tradition is by attending festivals and occasions, visiting museums and galleries, and making an attempt conventional Austrian delicacies.
Can I hike and bike in Austrian cities?