Best Cafes in Vienna: Guide to Famous Coffee Houses and Hidden Gems

The best cafes in Vienna blend traditional coffee culture, style, and taste with a dose of rich history and a dash of modern hospitality.

For more than two centuries, Viennese coffee house culture has played an essential role in Austrian life and across the European continent.

It’s always been an invaluable, indispensable, and authentic part of life in Vienna. And continues to be a vital, vibrant, and relevant cultural touchstone today.

That’s why UNESCO officially registered Vienna coffee house culture in the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Austria.

So let’s discover together the best coffee shops in Vienna – including the most popular, beautiful, and famous coffee houses and, of course, the oldest cafe in Vienna.

We’ll also explore some distinctive and delightful cafes off the beaten path. And, oh yes, we won’t forget modern coffee shops and the craft of specialty coffee.

You’ll further find a custom interactive map of the best cafes in Vienna for planning your meaningful travels to the ancient yet ever-new capital of Austria.

As well as firsthand observations and candid recommendations from our own travel experiences and coffee journeys.

Ready? Let’s go!

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Best Cafes in Vienna: Famous Coffee Houses

Innere Stadt, the First District, is the beautiful and romantic heart of Vienna. The First District is the seat of ancient imperial power and the modern Austrian state.

The awe-inspiring Inner City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the premier location of mighty imperial palaces, magnificent monuments, and major tourist attractions.

This fabled and famous Vienna City Centre is correspondingly the prime location of the most fabled and famous Viennese coffee houses.

So our coffee journey begins here in Innere Stadt, starting with the oldest coffee house in Vienna.

Cafe Frauenhuber, the Oldest Cafe in Vienna

With an opening day of October 24, 1824, Cafe Frauenhuber is the oldest cafe in Vienna still in existence – surviving and thriving an astonishing 200 years later.

Still, its origins reach back to the 14th century, when this handsome building was a medieval bathhouse.

In the late 18th century, the venue hosted gala evening events with entertainment by none other than two towering legends of classical music: Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and Ludwig van Beethoven.

These two classical superstars performed on separate occasions decades before the Cafe Frauenhuber opened. Notwithstanding, no other Vienna coffee house can claim the dynamic duo of Mozart and Beethoven under its roof.

Through subsequent centuries to the present day, Cafe Frauenhuber continues its cultural events with chess games, author readings, artist exhibitions, and live piano music.

Address: Café Frauenhuber | Himmelpfortgasse 6 | 1010 Vienna Austria

Cafe Sacher, the Most Famous Cafe in Vienna

Opened in 1876, the 5-star Hotel Sacher Wien ranks among the most luxurious hotels in Vienna.

Additionally, the Hotel Sacher Wien is home to the most famous cafe in Vienna: Cafe Sacher. With the most famous version of the ultimate Viennese cake: Sachertorte.

The origin story behind this quintessential Austrian dessert goes a little something like this:

In 1832, a teenager named Franz Sacher created a special new dessert for Prince Klemens Wenzel von Metternich.

Suddenly, due to the royal sweet tooth of this royally satisfied client, Chef Chambellier’s young apprentice became a pastry star.

Two centuries later, Franz Sacher’s star still shines at Cafe Sacher Wien.

The Original Sacher-Torte features layered chocolate cake and apricot jam, enrobed in dark chocolate, and served with Schlag (unsweetened whipped cream).

Not surprisingly, the Original Sacher-Torte recipe remains a carefully guarded secret.

Because Cafe Sacher Wien is a top destination on countless bucket lists, both for dessert lovers and instagrammable photo seekers, the queue can be quite long to enter.

But once inside, you may revel in the richness at your leisure. Sumptuous velvet and brocade. Gilt ornamentation. And elegant gifts in the boutique.

Address: Café Sacher Wien | Hotel Sacher Wien | Philharmonikerstrasse 4 | 1010 Vienna Austria

Cafe Central

Opened in 1876, Cafe Central is considered by many to be the most beautiful cafe in Vienna.

Located on the street level of the 19th-century Palais Ferstel, Cafe Central and its lofty vaulted interior have been featured in movies, books, and many travel guides to Vienna.

Around its marble-topped tables gathered brilliant minds and infamous individuals of the 19th and 20th centuries. Sigmund Freud, Adolf Loos, Stefan Zweig, Leon Trotsky, Josef Stalin, and Josip Tito are but a few names on a lengthy list.

These days, long lines of visitors wait patiently in long lines for their turn to enter its front door of wrought iron and paned glass.

However, you may or may not need to wait in line at Cafe Central. Because there’s the opportunity to make online reservations for five or fewer guests.

If you have six or more guests in your group, call the group relations number at (43) 1-533-37-6361 Monday through Friday daytime.

Address: Café Central | Herrengasse 14 and Strauchgasse | 1010 Vienna Austria

Cafe Landtmann

Since 1873, Cafe Landtmann has been the consummate choice both for chic locals and travelers alike.

Tuxedo-clad waiters, gleaming woods, white linen tablecloths, and fresh florals imbue the atmosphere with elegance.

The Landtmann Apfelstrudel (apple strudel) is a light and lovely rendition of this venerable Austrian pastry. A pool of delicate vanilla sauce finishes the dessert to perfection.

The Landtmann staff service is unfailingly polished yet personable. Even during the peak summer months. And again during the madcap yet magical season of Vienna Christmas Markets.

Address: Café Landtmann | Universaitätsring 4 | 1010 Vienna Austria

Best Cafes in Vienna: Traditional Coffee Houses

Cafe Hawelka

First opened in 1939, and then re-opened in 1945, Cafe Hawelka may be the “new kid on the block” of traditional Viennese coffee houses.

Still, its family-owned and operated heritage imparts the attentive service and leisurely pace of an earlier age.

In 1939, Leopold and Josefine Hawelka found a quiet side street in the busy Vienna city center to open their eponymous cafe.

Artists, authors, poets, politicians, workers, and wanderers flocked to its warm welcome.

The cafe closed during wartime. But afterward, old friends and new patrons alike returned in droves.

Now, the next generation carries on the hospitable family traditions – and also the tasty tradition of Frau Hawelka’s sweet rolls that she baked daily for over 60 years.

We recommend the Frische Buchteln (freshly baked sweet rolls) as an ideal accompaniment to your Viennese coffee, hot chocolate, or tea.

Address: Café Hawelka | Dorotheergasse 6 | 1010 Vienna Austria

Cafe Schwarzenberg

Opened in 1861, Cafe Schwarzenberg is the oldest existing Viennese cafe on the Ringstrasse.

Wrapped in wood paneling, Cafe Schwarzenberg evokes a classic charm. Unique touches remain from different decades, such as in the ladies’ room with original 1920s marble details.

In warm weather, the patio is a perfect spot for people-watching on the Ringstrasse.

Among delectable choices in the pastry case, the Walnusstorte (walnut cake) coupled with Schlag (whipped cream) plays a starring role.

Yes, the service can be rather brusque – or at least, that’s been our experience on several occasions. But let’s just chalk that up to the traditional character of this old-school establishment.

Address: Café Schwarzenberg | Kärntner Ring 17 | 1010 Vienna Austria

Best Cafes in Vienna: Cute Cafes and Coffee Houses

Cafe Diglas

Since 1923, Cafe Diglas stands at the intersection of history, modernity, and whimsy.

Lively conversation floats through the door, welcoming you to enter. Inside, red leather covers the chairs and cozy banquettes.

In a wonderfully whimsical highlight, tulle petticoats adorn the pendant lights – so cute and very instagrammable!

A live pianist performs at the upright piano during most evenings.

Ensure to order the Scheiterhaufen, a signature house dessert. In the Diglas interpretation, a veritable tower of meringue tops house-made bread pudding in a rich vanilla sauce.

Address: Cafe Diglas | Wollzeile 10 | 1010 Vienna Austria

Cafe Tirolerhof

Opened in 1882, Cafe Tirolerhof is a pretty, elegant, yet unpretentious Viennese coffee house on a quiet little plaza.

Natural light pours in through black-framed arched windows. Classic in design, the cool cream interior feels fresh and contemporary.

Crystal chandeliers amplify the sunlight and add extra sparkle.

Conversations in German and English flow easily among cafe patrons of all ages, from young children to the young at heart.

The vibe is local and neighborly. So you, too, feel like a local at Cafe Tirolerhof.

The Hausgemachter Apfelstrudel (house-made apple strudel) comes with your choice of either vanilla sauce or fresh Schlag (whipped cream).

Or, as the waiter may ask with a twinkle, “Why not both?”

“Why not both, indeed!” is obviously the correct – although undeniably indulgent – answer, which we happily learned.

Address: Café Tirolerhof | Führichgasse 8 | 1010 Vienna Austria

Best Cafes in Vienna: Coffee Houses Off the Beaten Path

The Austrian capital city encompasses much more than the legendary Inner Stadt, the First District.

Indeed, beyond the imperial heart bordered by the Ringstrasse, Vienna today encompasses a total of 23 distinctive districts.

Cafe Sperl

Since 1880, Cafe Sperl has welcomed patrons to Mariahilf, the Sixth District. Authentic patina, cozy atmosphere, and billiard tables highlight this handsome and historic cafe.

Arched windows flood the 19th-century space with natural light during the day. At night, the cozy mood increases with live piano music.

Cafe Sperl offers a variety of newspapers and other reading materials for your on-site enjoyment.

A garden courtyard provides a perfect place to relax and read –– or work remotely – in the warm months.

If you’re craving one slice of sweetness to accompany your Viennese coffee, then the Sperl Schokoschnitte (sliced chocolate cake) is a nice choice.

However, for ultimate decadence, consider the exclusive Sperltorte (Sperl whole chocolate cake).

The Sperltorte secret recipe is known only to a few, passed down from generation to generation. The lovely cake comes in its own special box – quite an instagrammable photo on its own.

Address: Café Sperl | Gumpendorferstrasse 11 | 1060 Vienna Austria

Kunsthistorisches Museum Cafe, Art History Museum Cafe

The monumental Kunst Historisches Museum Wien, the Art History Museum Vienna, is certainly not off the beaten path.

The majestic Art History Museum Vienna is located on Maria-Theresien-Platz of Innere Stadt, the First District.

However, the Museum Cafe does require a ticket to this extraordinary art museum and a short trek off the beaten path within the museum.

Exceptional art collections aside, the cafe alone is worth the admission ticket and the trek up the breathtakingly beautiful grand staircase.

Although there’s an elevator, too, of course.

Because the Art History Museum ranks among the most glamorous and glorious cafes in Vienna.

Settle into the posh velvet seating under the soaring dome of the Cupola Hall.

Sip a coffee and savor a snack or a decadent pastry.

Feast your eyes on the spectacular marble detailing around you.

Then gaze through immense windows and celebrate another spectacle: The matching Naturhistoriches Museum (Natural History Museum) across the plaza.

Address: Kunsthistoriches Museum Wien Cafe | Maria-Theresien-Platz | 1010 Vienna Austria

Best Cafes in Vienna: Viennese Roast Coffee

If you’re a Third Wave Coffee connoisseur, rest assured:

Despite the preference and prevalence of historic Vienna coffee houses, the Austrian capital additionally offers a contemporary Viennese roast coffee scene.

Espresso Mobil

For locals, the statue of Johann Strauss II in Stadtpark is a beloved figure.

For visitors, The Waltz King is a must-see sight. Because the gilded maestro and his golden violin are, after all, the most photographed monument in the entire capital.

All year round, weather permitting, the Espresso Mobil barista is ready to serve from a small yet fully equipped mobile espresso cart.

The barista crafts and pours a full menu of premium espresso drinks, hot chocolate, teas, and other beverages for your al fresco enjoyment.

When visiting Vienna in winter, we’re especially thrilled to see the super cute Espresso Mobil cart.

Regardless of the season, stay on the lookout for the Espressomobil cart. It’s likely parked near the Blumenuhr (flower clock).

By the way, the excellent Espressomobil espresso is roasted in small batches by the company’s own master roaster.

Address: Espressomobil Stadtpark | Johannesgasse 33 | 1010 Vienna Austria

Alt Wien Kaffee

If you’re on a specialty coffee journey, then make the markedly easy journey to Alt Wien Kaffee in Wieden, the Fourth District.

A true leader in the specialty coffee community since 2000, Alt Wien Kaffee respects Viennese coffee house traditions. While revealing a new approach through Third Wave Coffee craftsmanship in the cup, in the cafe, and in the community.

On one hand, as a coffee roaster, Alt Wien sources coffee beans through direct fair-trade relationships with coffee farmers around the world.

They roast the beans locally, with delicious results available via online subscription plans. And, of course, for sale in the Third Wave Coffee shop itself.

On the other hand, as one of the best coffee shops in Vienna, Alt Wien crafts specialty coffee by day. And then beer and wine and by night.

Showcasing the craft of Viennese roast coffee, the Alt Wien menu on your visit will likely include brewed coffee and espresso options, for example:

• French press
• Pour overs
• Flat whites
• Lattes
• Cortados

Latte art by the Alt Wien barista and a food menu finish your Third Wave Coffee journey with flair.

Address: Alt Wien Kaffee | Schleifmühlgasse 23 | 1040 Vienna Austria

Coffee Pirates

Flying the Third Wave Coffee flag in the Vienna roast coffee community since 2012, the Coffee Pirates crew aligns quality, values, and craft.

As Vienna’s first certified organic specialty coffee roaster, Coffee Pirates sustains well-established fair-trade relationships with coffee farmers in global coffee regions.

Coffee Pirates locally roasts and grinds ethically sourced and sustainable coffee beans in Alsergund, the Ninth District.

Their coffee subscription plans are booming for whole beans and ground coffee.

Options include espresso and filter coffee, different roasts such as medium roasts or dark roasts, and at-home coffee equipment. Coffee Pirates will ship orders to Austria, Germany, and other European Union countries.

The lively and stylish Coffee Pirates coffee shop is booming, too.

The industrial-chic space is popular with local university students and also with specialty coffee connoisseurs on coffee journeys.

Address: CoffeePirates | Spitalgasse 17 | 1090 Vienna Austria

Best Cafes in Vienna Map

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Best Cafes in Vienna: Sources and Recommendations

Ellis, Markman, The Coffee House: A Cultural History. Weidelfeld and Nicolson, 2011.

Fercher, Dietmar and Andrea Karrer, Austrian Desserts and Pastries: Over 100 Classic Recipes. Skyhorse, 2016.

Morwald, Toni and Christoph Wagner, Austrian Desserts: More Than 400 Recipes for Cakes, Pastries, Strudels, Tortes, and Candies. Skyhorse, 2016.

Michelin, Streetwise Vienna Map: Laminated City Center Street Map of Vienna, Austria. Michelin Streetwise Maps, 2023.

Rosetta Stone, German Language Instruction Software: Learn Unlimited Languages with Lifetime Access. Rosetta Stone, 2019.

Weinberg, Bennett Alan and Bealer, Bonnie K., The World of Caffeine: The Science and Culture of the World’s Most Popular Drug. Taylor & Francis, 2000.

Wild, Antony, Coffee: A Dark History. W. W. Norton & Company, Inc., 2005.

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