The Werkbundsiedlung in Vienna is one of those places where you can study how people (aka famous architects) in the past imagined the “modern way of living”. While walking through this housing estate you can soak up the unique atmosphere of something that is both historic and thought-provoking for the future at the same time. (Photo: Bwag/Wikimedia)

Sous bois doubles up as a graphic designer’s office for its owner and is a candy-coloured materialisation of her playful aesthetics and enthusiasm for all things stationary. In summer, the parking place in front of the shop becomes a tropical-themed paradise for bookbinding and typographic workshops.

A newcomer to the Vienna art scene, GOMO bravely takes on a relatively art-unpopulated area near the main train station. Exhibition and performance program revolves around a distinctive aesthetics of the space (an old garage) and a large yard with plenty of greenery is used extensively and with gusto in all seasons.

Minimalist Bar with a pleasantly dark atmosphere in the 5th district. Exceptionally good espresso and equally good cocktails. Drinks are made with love and passion. In addition, smaller, freshly prepared Italian snacks such as tramezzini are also served. Nice music. Family atmosphere.

Tenderly covered in snow is oskar kokoschka, the artist that gives name to the square from which you enter the university, it is not out of patriotisme or for promotion that I list this institution here, but for viennas art and creative scene this is a center in its own rights. You can come and visit one of the many different applied art classes, with a little self esteem use most of the facilities, drink a coffe that is cheap and surprisingly good in the mensa or get yourself the cheapest automat-can beer for 90 cents. There are various talks in english if you look for them and in summer there is a good chance you will find a barbecue party in the garden or a film screening. If none of this is the case, there is always a chance to meet people, find a gallery to go to at night, or a room to rent. the library and the magazine reading room are free and well equipped with a great selection of avantgarde cinema, that can be watched on computers.