How to Learn German in Vienna

A Guide for Expats and Students

How to Learn
German in Vienna

Are you an expat or student in Vienna, eager to learn German but unsure where to begin? You’re not alone. Many newcomers to this beautiful city face the challenge of mastering the local language, and taking that first step can feel daunting. But with the right approach and resources, you can start your journey to fluency today.

At INNES Vienna, we understand the unique needs of expats and students, and we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Let me share a story that reflects the spirit of our school.

Mitar, the founder of INNES Vienna, was just 17 when he first read Siddhartha by Hermann Hesse. The book left such a profound impact on him that he felt compelled to read it in its original language – German. The very next day, he asked his neighbors if anyone had a German course book. One of them handed him a copy of “German in 100 Lessons.”

Do you know how this book started? With lesson one. When Mitar completed that first lesson-navigating unfamiliar letters, strange words, and sentences that seemed so foreign-he discovered a passion and curiosity that drove him to continue. This is how learning unfolds: step by step, with each lesson building on the last.

This could be your first lesson in German, your first small step into a language that might seem challenging but is deeply rewarding. German is known for its structure, rules, and logic. Is it demanding to learn? Yes, but no more than anything else worth pursuing. What you need is motivation, effort, and time.

Experience Vienna While Learning German

Imagine yourself taking a walk along the Donaukanal, just a short distance from Vienna’s first district. The sun is setting, and you’re strolling with a friend, practicing German as you go. You stop at one of the many cafes along the canal, or perhaps you pick up a bottle of Austrian wine from a nearby shop, find a spot by the water, and sit down to enjoy the evening-engaging in conversation and deepening your understanding of the language.

Living and studying in Vienna offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture while enhancing your language skills. To inspire you, here’s a passage from Siddhartha in German, where Siddhartha decides to leave his home and has a poignant conversation with his father:

Siddhartha: “Vater, ich bin gekommen, dir zu sagen, dass ich morgen dein Haus verlassen will und zu den Samanas gehen will. Es ist mein Wunsch, dass mein Vater dem zustimmt.”

Der Vater schwieg.

Siddhartha stand schweigend, mit verschränkten Armen, auf seinem Platz. Der Vater saß stumm auf seinem Platz, und stumm stand der Sohn, mit verschränkten Armen. Und in der Nacht, als es stiller und stiller wurde, in der Stunde, als alle anderen schliefen, erhob sich der Vater, fühlte das Herz seines Sohnes schlagen und sprach:

Der Vater:„Wirst du immer so stehen und warten, bis der Morgen kommt, bis der Tag anbricht?“

Siddhartha: „Ich werde stehen und warten.“

Der Vater:„Du wirst müde werden, Siddhartha.“

Siddhartha: „Ich werde müde werden.“

Der Vater: „Du wirst einschlafen, Siddhartha.“

Siddhartha: „Ich werde nicht einschlafen.“

Der Vater schwieg weiter.

Siddhartha: “Vater, ich weiß, dass du nicht zornig bist. Du wirst mich nicht gehen lassen ohne dein Wort, das mir die Freiheit gibt, aber ich werde warten.”

Der Vater schwieg eine Stunde lang, zwei Stunden lang, stumm saß der Vater auf seinem Platz, und stumm stand der Sohn mit verschränkten Armen, und der Vater fühlte, wie sein Herz zitterte vor Zorn und vor Unruhe, fühlte, wie in ihm die Knie zitterten. Da erhob sich der Vater, sagte:

Der Vater:”Du wirst gehen in den Wald und wirst ein Samana werden. Wenn du die Erlösung gefunden hast, dann komm und lehre mich. Wie auch immer, geh jetzt, geh zu den Samanas. Lerne, dasselbe wie sie, werde ein Samana, es sei dir gestattet, mein Sohn.”

(Siddhartha, Hermann Hesse)

This passage isn’t just a dialogue; it’s a reflection of the journey you’re about to begin. Just as Siddhartha took his first step into a new life, you’re taking your first step into learning German. The path may seem challenging at first, but with each lesson, you’ll find yourself increasingly immersed in the language and culture of Vienna.

Tailored German Courses for Expats and Students in Vienna

At INNES Vienna, we offer a variety of courses designed to meet the needs of expats and students:

– Self-Study: Our online courses and resources allow you to learn at your own pace – ideal for those who value flexibility and the ability to study anywhere in Vienna or beyond.

– Individual Lessons: Benefit from personalized one-on-one sessions with our experienced teachers, tailored to help you address specific challenges and make rapid progress. This option is particularly effective for students and professionals who need to quickly improve their German for academic or work-related purposes.

– Group Classes: If you enjoy a collaborative learning environment, our group classes offer the chance to improve your German skills while connecting with others and experiencing the rich culture of Vienna. These classes are perfect for expats who want to build a community while advancing their language proficiency.

To further support your learning, we recommend the following resources:

– Deutsch-Lernen.com: A comprehensive online platform offering valuable resources for learners at all levels. This site is an excellent complement to your formal lessons, providing exercises and explanations that reinforce what you’ve learned.

– ActiLingua YouTube Channel: Developed by ActiLingua and INNES, this YouTube channel features engaging videos that cover a wide range of topics, from basic vocabulary to advanced grammar, making it a great resource for visual learners

Ready to Start Your Journey?

Whether you’re an expat settling into life in Vienna, a student pursuing your studies in this vibrant city, or someone simply eager to learn a new language, INNES Vienna is here to support you every step of the way. Take the first step towards mastering German today.
Enroll now or contact us to learn more about how we can help you achieve your language learning goals. We look forward to guiding you on this journey.

INNES Team