Vienna is such an easy weekend escape that it has become the perfect destination for a long break, and finding the right Vienna hotels is half the fun. Few capitals in Europe pull off such an amazing mix of imperial grandeur, immaculately kept parks and a coffee-house culture where you can happily lose an entire afternoon. Lukáš and I come here often, because whether you arrive by train or by car the journey takes only a couple of hours, and we always discover something new.
When planning your trip you might be scratching your head over where to rest your head and how much it will cost. The Austrian capital is huge, and at first glance it can seem like staying right next to St. Stephen’s Cathedral is an absolute must. The opposite is true, because the city has a brilliant public transport system that gets you from the outer districts into the centre in just a few minutes.
I’ve put together a detailed accommodation guide based on careful research into real traveller experiences. You’ll find tips on iconic palaces for special occasions, family-run guesthouses and budget-friendly hostels that won’t ruin your wallet. Together we’ll look at the individual Vienna districts so you know exactly which area suits your travel style best.
TL;DR
- Best value for location: If you want a genuinely local vibe, look for accommodation in the Neubau district — you can walk to the main museums but pay a fraction of the city-centre price.
- For luxury lovers: An unforgettable, history-packed experience awaits at the legendary Hotel Sacher Vienna or the former palace Hotel Imperial, which satisfy even the most demanding guests.
- Best boutique experience: By far the top-rated is HOTEL KAISERHOF WIEN, though the one-of-a-kind Altstadt Vienna with its fantastic breakfasts is well worth a look too.
- Accommodation with a story: Support a good cause and stay at magdas HOTEL Vienna City, which employs people with a refugee background, or try the former monastery Hotel am Brillantengrund.
- For families with kids: A great choice is the peaceful Hotel Zipser in the quiet Josefstadt district, or the hotels near the green Prater in Leopoldstadt.
- Best for a tight budget: Backpackers and students will love Vienna Hostel Ruthensteiner, which offers a friendly atmosphere and great facilities for very little money.
- Practical for arriving by car: Choose hotels around Westbahnhof or Hauptbahnhof stations, such as Hotel Schani, to avoid the hassle of navigating the historic centre.
💡 Vienna’s public transport is so good that you can be in the centre in ten minutes from the outer districts — so it pays to compare accommodation outside the Ring too. This map shows the whole range at a glance, including just how much cheaper the seventh or eighth district can be.
Which area to choose
Vienna is administratively split into twenty-three numbered districts, which locals call Bezirke. Knowing these numbers is absolutely key, because you’ll see them on every street sign and they make choosing a hotel far easier. If you’re weighing up your options, remember that Vienna is one of the few big European cities where there’s simply no point paying over the odds for the historic centre. The local metro and tram network is so incredibly dense and precise that you can get from the outer districts straight to Stephansplatz in just ten minutes. That means you can treat yourself to a far better, more interesting room in the seventh or eighth district for the price of average accommodation on the famous Ring.
1. Innere Stadt (First district) is the absolute historic heart of the city, home to the majestic Hofburg, the opera house and the renowned Graben shopping street. It’s a great choice for a first-ever visit if you have very limited time and don’t mind paying extra for exclusivity. Just bear in mind that accommodation and restaurant prices here are by far the highest in the city, and you’ll run into crowds of tourists everywhere.
7. Neubau is, according to many travellers and independent reviews, the district with the best balance of overall atmosphere and price. This is where Viennese themselves come to spend their free time, and you’ll find dozens of independent cafés and design shops. Another big plus is that the huge MuseumsQuartier cultural district is literally around the corner.
6. Mariahilf borders Neubau, and its main artery is the long Mariahilfer Straße. It’s the longest and by far best-known shopping street in all of Austria. If the main goal of your trip is topping up your wardrobe and you want to be close to the famous Naschmarkt, you’ll be absolutely delighted here.
8. Josefstadt is Vienna’s smallest district, yet for the attentive visitor it offers incredible calm and quiet lanes full of traditional literary cafés. From this lovely residential district you can take a very pleasant walk straight to the gorgeous neo-Gothic city hall.
4. Wieden, on the other hand, is guaranteed to delight foodies and lovers of good eating. It sits right next to the famous Naschmarkt and is literally peppered with great modern restaurants and cosy bistros. In terms of city transport it’s also a very strategic spot with excellent metro connections.
2. Leopoldstadt spreads out just across the canal from the historic centre, and its absolutely enormous advantage is proximity to the sprawling green Prater park. That makes it a fantastic and much-sought-after choice for families with children. You’ll find plenty of much-needed greenery, wide boulevards and a very calm mood in the evenings.
15. The district around Westbahnhof is an ideal base for travellers on a tighter budget. It also serves anyone who arrives in the Austrian capital by their own car very well. Hotels in this area tend to be markedly cheaper across the board, often offer safe on-site parking, and thanks to the nearby station you’re in the centre by metro within minutes.
When to go and when to book
The timing of your visit plays a huge role in the final accommodation prices you can expect to see in the booking systems. The Austrian capital is a very popular year-round destination, but some months are extremely busy in tourist terms and therefore call for careful planning well in advance.
The absolute peak is the Advent period from late November to the end of December, when the whole city magically transforms into a fairy-tale winter wonderland full of lights. The renowned Christmas markets draw enthusiastic visitors from all over Central Europe. That’s why hotels are understandably at their priciest during this period and the best rooms can sell out several months ahead.
The spring months of April to June and the autumn of September and October are probably the most pleasant of all for discovering the city’s beauty. The temperatures outside are ideal for long walks between the landmarks and relaxed lounging in the outdoor seating of local cafés. Hotel prices still stay fairly high, but the sight of parks in full bloom more than makes up for it.
If you want to save significantly on your trip, head out in chilly January or February. Prices for all accommodation drop to their annual low and you can enjoy emptier streets. You do have to reckon with freezing weather and very early dusk, but this winter period is also the peak of the famous ball season, which has a truly unique social charm.
Do watch out for long weekends and public holidays. Vienna is simply one of the easiest short breaks out there, and plenty of people love to make the most of their time off. On these dates available rooms vanish at rocket speed and prices soar, so definitely don’t put off your final booking.
26 best hotels in Vienna
Which specific hotel you go for always depends on your budget and preferences, so I’ve ordered the accommodation from the most luxurious icons down to the cheaper hostels. All ratings and review counts reflect real traveller experiences and will help you make the best possible decision.
1. Hotel Sacher Vienna
This legendary five-star hotel dates all the way back to 1876 and you’ll find it right in the first district, Innere Stadt, directly opposite the state opera house. With an absolutely outstanding rating of 4.5 from more than 14,088 reviews, it holds the all-time record for review count in Vienna and embodies traditional Austrian luxury.
In reviews, travellers most appreciate the utterly flawless personal service, the opulent interiors full of rare antiques and the unique old-world atmosphere. Naturally, you can taste the world-famous original Sachertorte right at the source, a sweet culinary experience the two of us absolutely love.
The building sits in the absolute historic centre, so you can comfortably walk to all the most important landmarks along beautiful streets. Classical music fans will also appreciate being right next to the opera, so they can head back after an evening performance without any awkward night-time travel.
💡 Tip: Choose this hotel if you’re after the absolute best for a once-in-a-lifetime occasion, such as a milestone anniversary or a luxury honeymoon. The price naturally matches the exclusivity, but a stay in such an iconic institution is something you’ll remember forever. check prices and availability
2. Hotel Imperial
This stunning former aristocratic palace on the famous Ringstraße boasts a very prestigious rating of 4.7 from 1,877 reviews and rightly ranks among the grandest things the Austrian capital offers its guests. The moment you step into the majestic lobby with its marble columns and giant crystal chandeliers, you’ll feel like a distinguished member of the imperial family.
All the rooms are furnished with an incredible eye for historic detail, and the walls are often adorned with luxurious silk wallpaper. In reviews guests very often single out the above-and-beyond personal butler service, who will see to every conceivable wish with a smile throughout your entire stay.
This unique building breathes centuries of history at every turn, and a stay here feels more like visiting a working museum than an ordinary hotel. The service is polished to sheer perfection and the staff do everything they can to make every guest feel truly special.
💡 Tip: Stay here if you truly love rich history and classic palace architecture. The hotel sits right in the first district, so you’re just a few romantic steps down Vienna’s beautiful streets from the very best-known landmarks. check prices and availability
3. Park Hyatt Vienna
In the very heart of the first district, inside a beautifully restored former bank building, sits this modern luxury hotel with an excellent rating of 4.7 from 2,846 reviews. The architects have masterfully blended the protected historic façade with a very elegant, thoroughly contemporary interior design.
The biggest draw for guests is without doubt the fifteen-metre swimming pool set inside a former giant bank vault, an architectural detail that reviews say is literally breathtaking. The spa and sprawling wellness zone here rank among the best-rated relaxation spots in the whole city.
Travellers rave about the spaciousness of the rooms and the perfect soundproofing of the windows, which guarantees a peaceful sleep even in the busy centre. The surrounding streets are full of the most luxurious global boutiques, so if you plan to combine sightseeing with shopping, you’ll struggle to find a better base.
💡 Tip: This fantastic hotel is ideal for travellers who prefer a more modern take on luxury over heavy historic drapes and carpets. It sits right in the renowned shopping district, so keen fashion lovers will be in seventh heaven here. check prices and availability
4. The Ritz-Carlton Vienna
Four precisely restored nineteenth-century palaces today make up this luxury accommodation complex with an excellent rating of 4.6 from 2,624 reviews. It stands on the prestigious Schubertring and offers an amazing blend of historic heritage with a first-class international standard of service.
In reviews, guests are hugely complimentary about the exceptionally spacious rooms, the perfect sound insulation and above all the very comfortable beds that guarantee the best possible rest. According to traveller experiences, the staff are always maximally discreet and professional in every situation.
The real sensation here, though, is the stylish rooftop bar with panoramic views over the whole city, which visitors say is an absolutely perfect spot for an evening drink at a romantic sunset over the rooftops of Vienna. The experience of this place is among the most frequently mentioned highlights.
💡 Tip: If you’re after the perfect combination of first-class service and stunning views, this is the right choice for you. The excellent central location lets you explore the heart of the city comfortably on foot and then unwind in maximum luxury in the evening. check prices and availability
5. Hotel Bristol
This gorgeous historic building with a very solid rating of 4.6 from 1,104 reviews stands right opposite the famous State Opera, which lends it incredible prestige from the outset. The interiors here, styled in wonderful Art Deco, breathe the elegance of the first half of the twentieth century and keep their original charm.
In reviews, guests most often highlight the unique view from some rooms straight onto the magnificent opera house, a cultural experience that few Vienna hotels can match. The evening atmosphere in these rooms is said to be absolutely unbeatable.
The staff here are said to be exceptionally polite, helpful and always ready to assist with booking tickets or picking a good restaurant. The hotel restaurant and stylish bar also enjoy an excellent reputation even among Viennese locals, who love to drop in for an afternoon coffee.
💡 Tip: Book a room here if the main event of your planned itinerary is attending an opera performance or a classical concert. The location simply can’t get any better for that purpose. check prices and availability
6. Rosewood Vienna
As one of the very newest additions to Vienna’s luxury scene, this hotel has quickly won guests’ hearts and boasts a lovely rating of 4.6 from 513 reviews. It sits on the picturesque Petersplatz square, literally just a few dozen metres from the famous Graben shopping street, and offers a very intimate, boutique atmosphere.
The seasoned designers here deliberately went for lightness, soft pastel colours and ever-present modern art. In doing so they created a very fresh, pleasant contrast to the traditional dark Vienna hotels, which can sometimes feel a touch heavy. This approach is especially appreciated by younger travellers.
Guests from all over the world praise above all the complete quiet and perfect privacy the hotel surprisingly provides despite its location in the very pulsing centre of the metropolis. There’s also an excellent restaurant with a summer terrace.
💡 Tip: This is an absolutely perfect spot for travellers who demand the most modern facilities and flawless bright design combined with the intimate, calm atmosphere of a smaller luxury property. check prices and availability
7. Eurostars Grand Hotel Wien
This very popular hotel on the prestigious Kärntner Ring achieves an excellent rating of 4.6 from 1,986 reviews and offers classic Viennese style at a slightly more affordable price than the best-known palace icons. The building cleverly combines preserved historic charm with all the modern comfort you could ask for.
In reviews, travellers very often and happily praise the extremely generous buffet breakfasts and unexpectedly spacious bathrooms, which are often a real problem in the historic buildings of central Vienna. Here you certainly won’t be complaining about a lack of space.
A huge logistical advantage is also the immediate proximity of the important Karlsplatz metro station. This major transport hub gives you great, fast connections to absolutely every corner of the city, including a direct route to Schönbrunn Palace.
💡 Tip: If you’re set on staying on the prestigious Ring but don’t need pricey personal butler services, this hotel gives you an excellent, sensible compromise between genuine luxury and an acceptable price. check prices and availability
8. HOTEL KAISERHOF WIEN
With an absolutely fantastic and rare rating of 4.8 from 1,364 reviews, this is the very top-rated hotel in our whole extensive selection. This traditional family-run boutique hotel sits near the busy Karlsplatz and wins guests over above all with the incredibly warm, personal approach of the entire staff.
In enthusiastic reviews the same huge praise keeps coming up for the fabulous morning breakfasts, the impeccable cleanliness of every space and the very cosy furnishing of the rooms, which effortlessly mix tradition with modern touches. Every detail here is carefully thought out for maximum guest comfort.
The location itself is very calm, yet it’s still just a few minutes’ comfortable walk from the opera house and the historic centre. Guests also have access to a pleasant wellness centre, which comes in handy after a long day of walking the city.
💡 Tip: This is absolutely the ideal choice for travellers who prefer a family atmosphere and a personal touch over the cold anonymity of huge hotel chains. Here you’ll get genuine care that’s very hard to find these days. check prices and availability
9. Cocoon Wien Westbahnhof — Boutiquehotel Stadthalle
This intriguing eco-focused hotel occupies a lovely house from the early twentieth century. You’ll find it near the important Westbahnhof station and it rightly boasts a great rating of 4.8 from 1,369 reviews. The whole concept is built on a deep respect for nature and sustainable travel.
The unique feature of the whole property is the gorgeous inner courtyard and carefully tended lavender garden in bloom. It gives guests an amazing oasis of green calm in the middle of the city, where you can happily retreat after a day of running around the sights. Guests have also fallen for the breakfasts made from local organic ingredients.
⚠️ Warning from the reviews: Before you book a room here, you should know one important thing. If you deliberately choose the rooms with a garden view, bear in mind they’re in a historic building with no lift, which can be a big problem for anyone with limited mobility or heavy suitcases.
💡 Tip: Choose this hotel if you’re arriving in the city by train at Westbahnhof and will genuinely appreciate an eco-friendly approach combined with the calm of the inner garden. You can also easily reach the very centre from here on a direct metro line in no time. check prices and availability
10. Hotel MOTTO
Right in the Mariahilf district on the famous busy shopping street, you’ll find this incredibly stylish boutique hotel with an excellent rating of 4.7 from 1,154 reviews. The interiors here are strongly inspired by the Parisian bohème of the 1920s, and every corner genuinely looks like it’s been cut out of a luxury design magazine.
Guests love not only the very originally furnished rooms, but above all the renowned hotel restaurant with its own bakery, where locals happily pop in for fresh baked goods. The quality of the food on offer reaches a genuinely very high level.
A great bonus for staying guests is also the gorgeous relaxation zone with a heated sauna, where you can fully unwind after a demanding day of shopping and sightseeing in cooler weather.
💡 Tip: Stay at Hotel MOTTO if you love bold visual design, great local gastronomy and want the best shops right on your doorstep. It’s an absolutely brilliant place for couples looking for a romantic, stylish weekend. check prices and availability
11. Altstadt Vienna, an SLH Hotel
This unique boutique hotel in the popular seventh district of Neubau has an impressive rating of 4.7 from 715 reviews and is widely known for the fact that each of its rooms is furnished in a completely different style. Famous architects and acclaimed fashion designers all had a hand in the design, so a stay here is a genuine visual work of art.
The biggest praise in the flood of reviews, though, goes to the fantastic breakfasts, which are included in the base room price. The hotel bends over backwards to accommodate every dietary requirement, and guests enthusiastically single out the great gluten-free, vegan and lactose-free options.
Thanks to this generous culinary approach, the property has become a real paradise for all travellers with food restrictions, who elsewhere have to laboriously hunt for meals outside the hotel. The morning buffet offering is said to be second to none.
💡 Tip: Book a room here if you’re simply after accommodation with soul, a one-of-a-kind artistic concept and set great store by rich, safe breakfasts. The Neubau district itself is also an absolutely brilliant area for aimless evening wanders and café-hopping. check prices and availability
12. Hotel Beethoven Wien
This very elegant family-run hotel with a lovely rating of 4.7 from 776 reviews sits just a few steps from the bustling Naschmarkt and the Theater an der Wien. The six-storey historic building is very cleverly themed, and each of its floors tells a slightly different story from Vienna’s rich history.
In reviews, visitors greatly praise the complimentary afternoon tea and the excellent coffee served in the lovely hotel lounge. They also mention the unexpectedly great soundproofing of the rooms, which guarantees guests an undisturbed sleep even near the centre.
The atmosphere here is altogether very intimate and friendly. The staff know the area well and are happy to advise you on the best restaurants, so you’ll steer clear of the classic tourist traps.
💡 Tip: It’s an absolutely brilliant spot for all lovers of culture and good food. The location right by the Naschmarkt reliably guarantees a daily supply of the best culinary experiences just around the corner. check prices and availability
13. magdas HOTEL Vienna City
This extraordinary hotel isn’t just an ordinary place to sleep — it’s a working project with an enormous heart. With its rating of 4.7 from 578 reviews, it’s a truly exceptional social enterprise that purposefully employs people with a refugee background and actively helps them integrate into society.
The hotel is housed in a beautiful retro building from the 1960s, which architects very sensitively and modernly renovated. Seasoned travellers love the cleverly upcycled furniture, the gorgeous quiet garden and the overall laid-back visual style of the whole space.
What guests mention most often, though, is the incredibly warm, authentic atmosphere created here by a diverse team from literally all over the world. Every team member has their own story, which gives your stay a whole new depth and human dimension.
💡 Tip: Pick magdas if you genuinely want your holiday money to directly support a meaningful, good cause. You’ll get not only a great clean room, but also a lovely feeling from tangibly backing a project that really changes people’s lives for the better. check prices and availability
14. Hotel am Brillantengrund
In the very heart of the bohemian Neubau district you’ll find this absolutely unique hotel with a lovely rating of 4.5 from 863 reviews, which unusually occupies the spacious premises of a former monastery. Inside hides a truly magical courtyard lined with old galleries, which in the warmer months serves as a perfect oasis of calm.
What makes this place so exceptional and beloved is the excellent Filipino restaurant and regular live music. The evening concerts and events here draw not just curious tourists but plenty of locals too, so cultures mix here naturally.
The whole space simply lives a life of its own and offers something you won’t find in classic hotels. It’s a place full of unbridled energy, creativity and a very informal mood, where every guest feels welcome straight away.
💡 Tip: This is an absolutely ideal choice for travellers deliberately seeking a hipster vibe and offbeat local experiences. You won’t feel stiff here as in a classic hotel, but rather like you’re on a fun visit to very creative friends. check prices and availability
15. 25hours Hotel Vienna at MuseumsQuartier
Fun, colourful and at first glance a little crazy — that’s exactly what this large hotel with a very solid rating of 4.5 from an impressive 4,906 reviews is like. Its interiors are entirely inspired by the playful theme of an old circus, and it sits in the seventh district right next to the huge MuseumsQuartier cultural centre.
In reviews, guests have fallen for the witty, unexpected details in the rooms, as well as the great option of free city bike hire for exploring Vienna more easily. The circus design filters into every conceivable detail and you certainly won’t be bored here.
The biggest hit of this place, though, is the great Dachboden rooftop bar, which opens up a gorgeous view over the whole evening city and where stylish young Viennese regularly gather for a drink.
💡 Tip: Stay here with a clear conscience if you’re already bored of the classic grey hotel chains and want modern accommodation with a big dose of humour and original visual design. The location is also absolutely ideal for exploring the city. check prices and availability
16. Hotel Am Konzerthaus — MGallery
This very elegant hotel with a lovely rating of 4.5 from 2,396 reviews is just a short walk from the famous Belvedere Palace and directly borders the well-known Konzerthaus concert hall. The interiors are strongly inspired by the Art Nouveau period and the famous works of painter Gustav Klimt, which lends the whole hotel a very sophisticated, artistic atmosphere.
In positive reviews, guests very often mention the surprisingly comfortable beds, top-notch cleanliness of every space and a very varied breakfast that reliably pleases every demanding foodie. The emphasis here is on classic elegance without needless frills.
The location in the third district guarantees overnight guests plenty of night-time calm. The historic centre, however, is still very easily reachable on foot or with a short tram ride, so you won’t miss any of the main attractions.
💡 Tip: This is a really great choice for travellers who prefer a more classic style of accommodation with a clear artistic touch and at the same time greatly appreciate a quieter location with excellent access to cultural landmarks. check prices and availability
17. Hotel Gilbert
This modern, visually very fresh hotel near the cultural MuseumsQuartier boasts a rating of 4.5 from 1,073 reviews. Its main trademark and draw is the huge number of live plants that richly decorate both the exterior and all the interior spaces. The whole concept is firmly built on sustainability and a connection with nature.
In numerous reviews, guests praise the modern, purposefully furnished rooms in a clean Scandinavian style. The excellent local café on the ground floor makes a great spot to kick-start a new day and serves great specialty coffee.
Huge praise also goes to the very friendly, young staff, who help create a relaxed and utterly informal mood throughout your stay. Nobody puts on airs here and the atmosphere is wonderfully laid-back.
💡 Tip: This green hotel is made for anyone who genuinely loves minimalist clean design, living greenery and wants to stay in a modern district full of great venues, without paying the premium prices of the first district. check prices and availability
18. Hotel Schani
If you’re arriving in Vienna comfortably by train, this smart hotel with a rating of 4.5 from 1,690 reviews sits right by the Main Station (Hauptbahnhof) and represents technologically very advanced accommodation. You can handle the whole tedious process from initial check-in to unlocking your room purely through an app on your smartphone.
In reviews, travellers greatly appreciate the cleverly designed, comfortable work zones in the spacious lobby, which make the hotel a great spot for digital nomads. The modern rooms are on the smaller side, but perfectly and very logically laid out.
A huge plus is of course the excellent transport access, since the neighbouring station is also a major metro and tram hub. From this starting point you can get literally anywhere in the city in a flash.
💡 Tip: I definitely recommend trying this hotel for business trips or short weekend stays when you’re travelling by train and don’t want to waste precious time lugging heavy suitcases across the whole city. The station is right opposite, so you can check in the moment you arrive and head straight out to discover the beauty of the Austrian capital. check prices and availability
19. Ruby Marie Hotel Vienna
This huge and hugely popular hotel sits right on the renowned Mariahilfer Straße shopping street and has an absolutely great rating of 4.6 from 3,579 reviews. The whole concept of the very successful Ruby brand rests on the interesting idea of so-called “lean luxury”. In practice that means you pay for a fantastic comfy bed, a powerful shower and an absolutely great location, but you don’t pay for any needless extra hotel services you won’t use anyway.
From the many available reviews it’s clear there’s huge enthusiasm for the gorgeous rooftop terrace and stylish bar with round-the-clock service. This bar isn’t just for morning breakfasts — it doubles as an absolutely great spot for a relaxed evening with a cocktail in hand. The modern rooms are on the smaller side, but very cleverly and practically designed.
Thanks to its location in the sixth district of Mariahilf, you have the best shops literally right outside the front door. The metro station is just a few steps from reception, so after a demanding day of shopping you don’t have to drag your bags far.
💡 Tip: This is an absolutely perfect, strategic base for keen shopping lovers and younger couples who want to stay in a modern, very lively setting with excellent access to all the evening action. check prices and availability
20. Hotel Josefshof am Rathaus
In the lovely and incredibly calm eighth district of Josefstadt sits this very traditional hotel with a rating of 4.5 from 2,310 reviews. The spacious building offers beautiful rooms furnished either in the style of classic Viennese historic elegance or in a very fresh, modern Art Nouveau design. The majestic city hall and famous Burgtheater are just a few minutes’ very pleasant walk away.
In reviews, visitors most of all praise the gorgeous, perfectly quiet inner courtyard, where breakfast is regularly served in summer. Another huge benefit is the very generous opening hours of the excellent breakfast buffet, which runs here until noon — something every tired late sleeper will appreciate.
This district is known for its small independent cafés and generally very slow pace of life. The hotel staff are renowned for their traditional Austrian hospitality and will always happily point you to a quiet local venue for a good evening drink.
💡 Tip: Stay here without hesitation if you’re after absolute calm in a gorgeous residential district while still having the city centre constantly within reach. The eighth district is absolutely perfect and very authentic for this purpose. check prices and availability
21. Hotel Rathauspark Wien — Handwritten Collection
This very pleasant, reliable mid-range hotel with a lovely rating of 4.4 from 1,300 reviews occupies a carefully restored nineteenth-century town palace. You’ll find it just a short walk from the majestic city hall and the main university building. All the rooms tastefully combine original historic features with a thoroughly modern, clean design.
According to many independent guest reviews, the hotel’s biggest strengths are the excellent value for money, very spacious rooms and surprisingly calm atmosphere. This calm makes a sharp and very pleasant contrast to the constant bustle of the nearby historic centre, where you go to admire the landmarks during the day.
Thanks to the proximity of the university campus, the surrounding streets are full of great, affordable bistros and cafés popular with local students. The tram connections here are an absolute showcase, so you can easily reach any more distant attraction.
💡 Tip: Choose this tried-and-tested hotel if you’re simply after solid, highly reliable accommodation in a beautiful historic building, from which you can comfortably walk to the main museums and landmarks on the famous Ring. check prices and availability
22. Ruby Lissi Hotel Vienna
This other popular representative of the so-called “lean luxury” concept sits right in the first district near Stephansdom cathedral and holds a very solid rating of 4.3 from 1,600 reviews. The interiors here are strongly inspired by nineteenth-century travel and the beloved Empress Sissi, which gives the whole hotel a really distinctive, unforgettable character.
Guests from all over the world appreciate above all the fantastic, absolutely unbeatable location in the very historic heart of the city and the stylish 24/7 bar, which also serves great healthy breakfasts from local organic ingredients. The rooms themselves are very purposefully and cleverly furnished with a huge emphasis on the quality of your night’s sleep.
Although some rooms are on the smaller side layout-wise, you’ll find everything you need in them, including excellent toiletries and top-notch sound. The combination of the empress’s historic legacy and modern technology works, according to reviews, absolutely perfectly and creates a very fun environment.
💡 Tip: If you’re determined to stay right in the historic centre for a reasonable price and don’t necessarily need a huge spacious room, this hotel gives you an absolutely great, stylish base for exploring the city every day. check prices and availability
23. Hotel Zipser
This at-first-glance very traditional family-run hotel with a nice rating of 4.3 from 713 reviews is in the incredibly quiet Josefstadt district. For several decades now it has reliably kept its reputation as very cosy accommodation, once favoured by a number of famous Austrian artists and writers.
In written reviews, travellers most often single out the perfectly calm atmosphere, the very friendly family staff and the gorgeous quiet inner courtyard. It’s not the most modern design statement off the front pages of magazines, but the building offers genuine Viennese hospitality at really good prices.
The staff treat guests very warmly and create the feeling that you’ve come to spend the summer with good friends. Breakfasts here run at a very relaxed pace and the whole building breathes a pleasant old-world nostalgia that simply belongs to Vienna.
💡 Tip: It’s an absolutely great, safe choice for families with children or older couples who want a quiet setting in a beautiful district full of local cafés and want to stay a little away from the busiest main tourist routes. check prices and availability
24. Vienna Hostel Ruthensteiner
With an absolutely excellent and very rare rating of 4.7 from 1,932 reviews, this is the top-rated hostel in our whole extensive selection. It’s just a short walk from Westbahnhof station and has run successfully for many decades now as an independent family business that takes enormous pride in its incredibly friendly community atmosphere.
Guests absolutely love the lovely outdoor garden with plenty of spots for an evening sit-down, the various musical instruments free to borrow and the perfectly equipped huge shared kitchen. The cleanliness of every space here is, according to many reviews, on par with far pricier classic hotels, which is certainly not a given with this type of accommodation.
It’s an absolutely ideal place for meeting people from every corner of the planet. The hostel staff regularly organise shared events and barbecues, so it’s very easy to get to know people and pick up valuable tips on interesting places straight from other well-travelled backpackers.
💡 Tip: If you’re travelling light with just a backpack, after high-quality affordable accommodation and want to meet other like-minded travellers from all over the world, this place will completely win you over with its laid-back, informal mood. check prices and availability
25. Wombat’s City Hostel Vienna Naschmarkt
This huge, hugely popular modern hostel with young people has a great rating of 4.4 from 4,227 reviews. You’ll find it in an absolutely fantastic strategic spot right by the renowned, forever-lively Naschmarkt. It offers very clean modern shared dorms, but surprisingly also spacious private rooms with their own bathroom.
In thousands of reviews, visitors praise above all the huge, very lively bar on the ground floor, the excellent security of the whole property and the amazing location. From here you can easily walk to most of the main landmarks, and at the same time it’s just a few minutes’ walk to the very best nightclubs in the city.
Thanks to its huge capacity, there’s always a very cosmopolitan, buzzing mood here, so you’ll never feel lonely. The nearby market also gives you unlimited options for cheap and incredibly varied dining from early morning until late in the evening.
💡 Tip: This accommodation is an absolutely ideal base for young travellers and keen students who want to be constantly in the thick of it, love nightlife and want the best Vienna bars literally under their windows. check prices and availability
26. MEININGER Hotel Wien Downtown Sissi
This well-known, very affordable cross between a classic hotel and a larger hostel sits in the popular, green second district of Leopoldstadt. With an average rating of 4.1 from 3,169 reviews it does have the very lowest rating in our whole selection, but thanks to its very attractive low price it still consistently draws plenty of thrifty travellers and larger organised groups.
⚠️ Warning from the reviews: Before you firmly book your cheap room here, you should know a few very important things. The hotel recently underwent extensive renovation while still operating, which caused guests unpleasant noise. Critical reviews also very often and firmly mention the narrower double beds, only 160 centimetres wide, which logically may not be comfortable for every adult traveller.
On the other hand, the green location near the popular Prater amusement park is absolutely excellent and the connection to the city’s historic centre by metro works flawlessly.
💡 Tip: Only seriously consider staying here if you have a really tight travel budget and are after a private room within walking distance of the centre, but are willing to make a clear compromise on bed size and overall comfort for a good price.
How to choose the right hotel
When making the final decision on where to rest your head in Vienna, think above all about how you’re travelling to the city and exactly who you’re going with. That will greatly help you narrow down the choice from these twenty-six great options. Since we usually only come here for a short long weekend, transport plays a key role in how happy you are with the whole trip.
If you set out in your own car, definitely give the historic Innere Stadt a wide berth, where on-street parking is extremely expensive and navigating the narrow one-way streets is needless stress. Look instead for accommodation in the outer districts, such as the area around Westbahnhof or in the green Leopoldstadt. Ideally pick the hotels that offer their own secure parking garage. Leave the car there once you arrive and get around the city by the excellent metro instead — you’ll save yourself a lot of frustration.
Travellers who decide to arrive comfortably by a direct train from abroad do best to stay right by the Main Station (Hauptbahnhof) or possibly near Meidling station. That way you skip the tedious lugging of heavy suitcases up metro escalators, and you can quickly check in and head into the city light the moment you arrive.
For families with small children, on the other hand, plenty of space and proximity to greenery are absolutely key. The best choice tends to be the aforementioned Leopoldstadt district, because the huge Prater park offers endless activities for kids of all ages. Avoid the busy shopping streets and noisy districts with a rowdy nightlife.
If you’re planning a relaxed romantic weekend for two, head straight to the beautiful boutique hotels in the seventh district of Neubau or the eighth, Josefstadt. These districts have an incredible local charm and are literally packed with small bistros, interesting design shops and old cafés. The two of us love lounging in the outdoor seating where they make an absolutely brilliant Kaiserschmarrn (imperial pancake) and other delicious meat-free treats. By the way, traditional meaty specialities like the famous Wiener schnitzel, Tafelspitz or local sausages are of course on every corner here, since they’re a renowned local speciality you’ll find in most traditional restaurants across Austria. In short, these districts offer exactly the kind of wonderfully relaxed atmosphere that people come to Vienna for.
Where to next
If you’ve already picked your accommodation and are looking forward to the trip, some extra information will definitely come in handy. We’ve put together a comprehensive article with tips on what to see in Vienna, where you’ll find the best landmarks as well as hidden spots without the tourist crowds.
If you’re planning a visit in the winter months, don’t miss our guide to the Vienna Christmas markets, where we advise which markets are worth it and which to steer clear of.
If Vienna is just a stop on a longer road trip, be sure to read up in advance on how the Austria motorway vignette works so you avoid needless fines. For more travel inspiration, check out our article on a 7-day Austria road trip, or take a look at the most beautiful Austrian lakes and our tips on top Austria wellness hotels. check prices and availability
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to stay right in Vienna’s city center?
It’s definitely not necessary. Vienna has an absolutely reliable, clean and very dense network of metro and tram lines. If you stay in adjacent districts like the popular Neubau, Mariahilf or Wieden, you’ll pay significantly less for a beautiful hotel and reliably reach the historic center by public transport in under ten minutes.
Where should I stay when visiting the Christmas markets?
The biggest and most famous Christmas markets are located in front of the City Hall building and at the majestic Schönbrunn Palace. The most strategic option is to stay in the Innere Stadt, Josefstadt or Neubau districts, from where you can easily reach the most beautiful markets on foot through beautifully decorated streets and soak up the true festive atmosphere.
What’s parking like at hotels in Vienna?
Street parking in Vienna is strictly regulated and very disadvantageous for regular tourists. Always check in advance whether your chosen hotel offers its own secure parking spaces, and expect fees in the range of tens of euros per night. A great and cheaper alternative are the Park & Ride lots on the outskirts of the city.
Are hotels in Vienna expensive?
The overall price range is truly enormous. While in the first district you’ll find luxury historic palaces where a night literally costs a fortune, in the neighborhoods around the train stations and near the Naschmarkt food market you’ll discover plenty of very affordable boutique hotels and modern hostels. These offer an absolutely excellent price-to-quality ratio.
Which Vienna neighborhood is best for food lovers?
If you’re traveling primarily for great food, look for accommodation in the Wieden or Mariahilf district near the famous Naschmarkt food market. You’ll find a huge number of modern bistros, stalls with fresh local produce, excellent vegetarian eateries and authentic little cafés with the very best coffee.
When is the best time to book a hotel?
For beautiful spring and autumn dates, I recommend booking a room at least two months in advance. However, if you’re planning to visit Vienna in December for the famous Advent weekends, ideally arrange accommodation by the end of summer. The very best and most affordable hotels sell out very quickly.
Where should I stay in Vienna with children?
For families with younger children, the Leopoldstadt district (number two) is an absolutely fantastic choice. It’s a very quiet area that offers plenty of green space to relax. Most importantly, you have the huge Prater amusement park right at hand, where children can have an absolutely great time on dozens of attractions.
Tips and Tricks for Your Vacation
Don’t Overpay for Flights
Search for flights on Kayak. It’s our favorite search engine because it scans the websites of all airlines and always finds the cheapest connection.
Book Your Accommodation Smartly
The best experiences we’ve had when looking for accommodation (from Alaska to Morocco) are with Booking.com, where hotels, apartments, and entire houses are usually the cheapest and most widely available.
🚗 Car rental on the roadVerified rental cars in AustriaSearch with the DiscoverCars comparison engine — it compares prices from dozens of local and international rental companies, and most bookings come with free cancellation.
Compare car prices in Austria →Don’t Forget Travel Insurance
Good travel insurance will protect you against illness, accidents, theft, or flight cancellations. We’ve had a few hospital visits abroad, so we know how important it is to have proper insurance arranged.
Where we insure ourselves: SafetyWing (best for everyone) and TrueTraveller (for extra-long trips).
Why don’t we recommend any Czech insurance company? Because they have too many restrictions. They set limits on the number of days abroad, travel insurance via a credit card often requires you to pay medical expenses only with that card, and they frequently limit the number of returns to the Czech Republic.
Find the Best Experiences
Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace where you can book guided walks, trips, skip-the-line tickets, tours, and much more. We always find some extra fun there!
