Vienna is the capital of Austria and the second-largest German-speaking city in the European Union. The metropolitan area is home to about 2.4 million people, which is one quarter of the Austrian population. Vienna has been culturally characterized by the Imperial Area of Austria, which can be seen by the Schönbrunn Palace, the Belvedere and the Hofburg. The Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra was elected the best European orchestra in 2006. The evenings can be spent in the Burgtheater or the Vienna State Opera or in one of the relaxing coffeehouses. While having a cup of coffee and enjoying some snacks, guests can take their time reading the newspaper.