Where to Stay in Vienna: Guide to Best Areas, Top Hotels, and Must-See Sights

Wonder where to stay in Vienna, Austria? Discover the best areas, top hotels, and must-see main sights in this historic and romantic European capital city.

Vienna’s best neighborhoods combine extraordinary ambiance, elegant hotels, exclusive experiences, and exceptional sights – both world-famous major attractions and wondrous hidden gems.

Let’s wander together through the most wonderful neighborhoods in Vienna, which The Economist awarded the title of World’s Most Livable City five times.

You’ll find a custom interactive map and other need-to-know travel information. As well as firsthand observations and recommendations from our meaningful travel experiences.

Whether you’re planning to visit Vienna in winter, spring, summer, or fall, there’s surely a perfect place to stay for your memorable trip.

Ready? Let’s go!

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Districts of Vienna: A Quick Introduction

Expanding over centuries, the Austrian capital encompasses 23 numbered and named municipal districts – 23 different neighborhoods of diverse delights, sights, and personalities.

These 23 districts begin with the awe-inspiring historic city center, the heart of Vienna and Austria since the imperial age: the First District of Innere Stadt.

The First District of Innere Stadt is the Vienna Inner City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site of “substantially authentic” Central Vienna.

Where once stout medieval walls protected the original city, now the 19th-century Ring Road delineates Old Town. Even more, Ringstrasse defines Old Town.

Then, Vienna expands beyond Ringstrasse to 22 additional districts, ending with the 23rd District of Liesing.

Some districts are a short walk to First District. Other neighborhoods are a quick ride on Vienna’s excellent and efficient public transport network.

We’ll cover how to get around Vienna later in the article.

Best Areas to Stay in Vienna: 1st District, Innere Stadt

The First District of Innere Stadt is the best area in Vienna to:

• Explore historic landmarks in ample abundance.
• Experience aristocratic pomp and circumstance to the utmost.
• Be inspired by Baroque architecture at its most grand and glorious.

Given that, the First District is the best area to stay in Vienna for first-time visitors.

Because many locations of spectacular imperial monuments, famous coffee houses, and other top tourist attractions are located in the historic center.

The best luxury hotels, both beautiful boutique hotels and global hotel brands, line its elegant avenues and cobblestone streets.

Accordingly, none of these premier properties would win the “cheap hotels” award. “Posh” and “palatial” are the operative words in accommodations throughout the city center.

During the holiday season, the First District hosts several famous Advent markets. For instance, City Hall Square (Rathausplatz) holds the biggest Christmas market in Vienna, the Viennese Christmas Dream (Wiener Christkindlmarket).

Afterward, from January to March, City Hall Square (Rathausplatz) transforms into an enchanting environment of outdoor skating rinks, ice skating trails, specialty lighting, and entertainment.

The Viennese Ice Dream (Wienereistraum) is one of the uniquely great things that make wintertime here so special – and, yes, easily accessible in walking distance from your First District hotel.

Best Places to Stay in Vienna: 1st District

Established in 1746, Hotel König von Ungarn is a heritage 4-star hotel in the most central location, mere steps from St. Stephen’s Cathedral.

The handsome public spaces and hotel rooms feature elegant decor, wallpaper, and paneling, as well as rich colors. Historic though it is, Hotel Konig von Ungarn has an elevator and free WiFi, too.

Mar Suite Apartments are luxury vacation apartments in a lively First District location near St. Charles Church (Karlskirche).

This modern aparthotel offers two-story duplex residences – yes, the building has an elevator, with a staircase in each duplex. Light, airy, and stylish, each Mar Suite features a fully outfitted kitchenette, dining, and seating areas for that home-away-from-home feeling.

Grand Hotel Wien

Since 1870, the Grand Hotel Wien ranks among the foremost 5-star luxury hotel properties of the 1st District.

The Grand Hotel presides over a perfect location on the Ringstrasse, mere steps from the Vienna State Opera. In 1894, Waltz King Johann Strauss the Younger specifically chose the hotel for his 50-year jubilee extravaganza.

Besides 200+ sumptuous guest rooms and suites, the Grand Hotel boasts the Grand Spa No. 605 with pampering services.

The hotel also offers a direct connection to the Ringstrassen Galerien shopping center.

Lastly, the Grand Hotel features both a highly acclaimed Japanese restaurant and also a Michelin-starred French restaurant.

Check available dates and the best rates at Grand Hotel Wien and book your stay.

Address: Grand Hotel Wien | Kärtner Ring 9 | 1010 Vienna Austria

Hotel Sacher Wien

Sometimes the understudy steps onstage, and surprisingly becomes the star.

That’s what happened in 1832: A Chef’s teenage apprentice stepped in to create a dessert for Prince Klemens Wenzel von Metternich.

Young Franz Sacher pleased the prince with his delectable invention, the Original Sacher-Torte. Et voilà! A star was born.

Franz’s legacy lives on today at the 5-star Hotel Sacher Wien and in the most famous cafe in Vienna: the Café Sacher.

Join the public queue for Cafe Sacher, richly designed in red velvet, marble tables, and crystal chandeliers.

Once seated, relish a slice of Original Sacher-Torte with unsweetened whipped cream (Schlag), of course, on the side.

However, let’s consider this luxurious alternative: As a hotel guest in one of the superbly appointed spacious rooms and suites, you may certainly skip the cafe queue.

Thanks to room service, you can then indulge in Original Sacher-Torte and Schlag amidst ornate comfort and complete privacy.

Check the available dates and best rates at Hotel Sacher Wien and book your stay.

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

Top Vienna Attractions: 1st District

St. Stephen’s Cathedral (Stephansdom)

The true heart of Vienna is unquestionably its spiritual and geographic center: St. Stephen’s Cathedral, the Gothic landmark Domkirche St. Stephan.

The stalwart stone walls of Stephansdom enfold Austria’s epic sweep through the ages.

In the same way, the panoramic views from Stephandom’s North Tower and South Tower unfold Vienna’s epic vistas over the centuries.

Address: St. Stephen’s Cathedral (Stephansdom) | Stephansplatz 3 | 1010 Vienna Austria

Hofburg Palace (Hofburg Wien)

From Vienna’s earliest days, Hofburg Palace (Hofburg Wien) has formed the administrative center of government:

Firstly, as the castle of the royal court and imperial palace since 1279. Following that epoch, for the Austrian President and federal government today.

For more than 600 years, the imperial family ruled from and resided at the Hofburg all year long. Starting in the 18th century, they wintered at the Hofburg and summered at Schönbrunn Palace.

The Imperial Apartments (Kaiserapparmentes) and Empress Sisi Museum are perennial favorite places to peek into the imperial lifestyle.

The Spanish Riding School (Spanische Hofreitschule) and its superb Lippizaner stallions train and perform in the 18th-century Winter Riding School at the Hofburg.

Address: Hofburg Palace (Hofburg Wien) | Heldenplatz | 1010 Vienna Austria

Vienna State Opera (Staatsoper)

The Vienna State Opera (Wiener Staatsoper) hosts the internationally acclaimed Vienna State Opera, State Opera for Children, and Vienna State Ballet.

Opened in 1869, the Vienna Opera House impresses with its massive size and majestic interior. Take a behind-the-scenes guided tour of this unrivaled operation.

Address: Vienna State Opera (Wiener Staatsoper) | Opernring 2 | 1010 Vienna Austria

Kaerntner Strasse Shopping Street (Kärtnerstrasse)

Alongside the majestic landmarks of the First District, Vienna’s most upscale shopping street is also here: the Kaertner Strasse Shopping Street (Kärtnerstrasse).

This pedestrian zone runs from St. Stephen’s Cathedral on Stephansplatz to the Vienna State Opera House on Karlsplatz along the Ringstrasse.

Goldenes Quartier, Graben, and Kohlmarkt chiefly comprise the luxury sections.

In Goldenes Quartier, the flagship stores of global luxury brands cluster together – think Louis Vuitton, Chanel, Prada, Cartier, etc.

The fabulous flagship of Swarovski, the Austrian crystal company, beckons you into its multi-faceted world of shimmering crystal, art exhibitions, and a Champagne bar.

Though chic may reign supreme, the array of stores and cafés along Kaerntner Strasse and on side streets cater to everyone: High-end shoppers, fashion mavens, souvenir seekers, and people watchers alike.

Address: Kaerntner Strasse Shopping Street | Kärntnerstrasse | 1010 Vienna Austria
1010 Vienna

Best Areas to Stay in Vienna: 2nd District, Leopoldstadt

The Danube River and the Danube Canal (Donaukanal) surround Vienna’s Second District, Leopoldstadt.

This family-friendly residential area is a short walk or swift public transport to all the imperial awe of Old Town Vienna.

In 1766, the imperial hunting grounds here opened as a public park, the Prater. This vast oasis includes green meadows, woods, and the beloved Prater amusement park.

Home to the formerly thriving and presently re-emerging Jewish community, Leopoldstadt counts the Jewish Museum Vienna among its several significant museums.

In 2007, the new Praterstern railway station opened in the Second District. The transportation and train hub bustles with Viennese locals, suburban commuters, and visitors.

Best Places to Stay in Vienna: 2nd District

Hotel Stefanie

Vienna’s many historic hotels are, of course, a source of pride. But only Hotel Stefanie Wien earns the official title of “Vienna’s Oldest Hotel.”

Indeed, documents prove this exact address has hosted guests since the year 1600!

The boutique Hotel Stefanie is a proud member of the prestigious Historic Hotels of Europe.

Its convenient location in Leopoldstadt affords proximity to everything in Vienna city center. And also to destinations farther afield, thanks to the nearby Schwedenplatz Underground Station.

Fine antiques, precious porcelains, and traditional decor highlight the 100+ guest rooms, suites, and public spaces of this classic 4-star hotel.

Quiet guest rooms feature soundproofing, air conditioning, and free WiFi throughout the hotel.

When free breakfast is included, Hotel Stefanie fully completes the good value checklist.

Since there’s no fitness center on-site, the front desk can arrange passes to a local gym.

Given that Hotel Stefanie carries a centuries-old tradition of history and formality, it’s a surprisingly family-friendly hotel. The hotel staff conveys warm, welcoming smiles to guests of all ages.

Young families with children will further appreciate small neighborhood parks and playgrounds, such as Manès Sperber Park only 306 yards (280 m) away.

Check availability and best prices at Hotel Stefanie and book your stay.

Address: Hotel Stefanie | Taborstrasse 12 | 1020 Vienna Austria

Top Vienna Attractions: 2nd District

Prater Vienna (Prater Wien)

The adored Prater amusement park (Würstlprater) and the natural oasis of Prater Vienna park (Prater Wien), are year-round favorites of Vienna locals and visitors alike.

In essence, the Prater is the ultimate destination for Fun with a capital “F.”

Since 1897, the Prater’s iconic symbol has been the Giant Ferris Wheel, Riesenrad.

Fully enclosed and temperature-controlled, the Riesenrad wagons display panoramic views during the circular rotation. The Giant Ferris Wheel reaches a height of 212 feet (64.7 m).

Additionally, the Prater abounds 250 other attractions, restaurants, and shops. Rides range from high-tech thrills and chills to old-fashioned nostalgia.

Particularly fun for little ones, the circa 1928 Prater Liliputbahn miniature railway loops roughly 2.5 miles (4 km) around the park perimeter.

Address: Prater Vienna (Prater Wien) | Riesenradplatz 2 | 1020 Vienna Austria

Best Areas to Stay in Vienna: 3rd District, Landstrasse

The Third District is another refined yet approachable Viennese residential neighborhood, Landstrasse.

Landstrasse features stately homes, international embassies, and essential institutions. As well as one markedly magnificent Baroque landmark, Belvedere Palace.

The Third District is also home to the vibrant environment of MuseumsQuartier. The Museum Quarter brings a lively artistic energy to this delightful historic district.

Best Places to Stay in Vienna: 3rd District

Parks 73 The Townhouse Hotel is a top-rated urban aparthotel with 24-hour reception. Belvedere Palace is about a 15-minute walk from its Landstrasse location.

The modern architecture centers on an inner garden courtyard, creating tranquil vibes. A rooftop terrace opens in the summer season.

Floor plans vary, but all 49 suites boast an equipped kitchenette, a dining table, a seating area, heating, and air conditioning. And, of course, free WiFi.

InterContinental Vienna

Opened in 1964, the 5-star hotel InterContinental Vienna gained renown both as Vienna’s first international hotel brand and its first skyscraper.

When he designed the property, Austrian architect Carl Appel sought to bridge “Gestern und Morgen,” that is, “Yesterday and Tomorrow.”

Stadtpark and its charming Metro station are directly across the street, as well as tram stops close by.

Under the crystal chandeliers of the Intermezzo Bar, both locals and guests alike linger over coffee and pastries during the day, then swank cocktails and light bites till late at night.

Classic decor and polished woods accentuate the 450+ guest rooms, suites, numerous meeting and event spaces, as well as the Grand Ballroom.

This hotel is among the top choices for meetings and conventions. As a result of group business demand, the price range obviously fluctuates. Still, the central location and service make the InterContinental Vienna a good option.

We’ve stayed at the InterContinental Vienna on multiple occasions, and highly commend the outstanding staff.

At this time, hotel management advises considerable changes are coming, with major renovations planned to begin in 2025.

Check the dates and best prices at InterContinental Vienna and book your stay.

Address: InterContinental Vienna | Johannesgasse 28 | 1030 Vienna Austria

Belvedere Palace (Schloss Belvedere)

Baroque architecture, terraced gardens, and Austrian art dazzle at Belvedere Palace (Schloss Belvedere).

The princely estate includes two separate palaces – Upper Belvedere and Lower Belvedere – plus the Park, Orangery, and Palace Stables.

Discover 800 years of worthy art from Medieval to Viennese Modernism. Upper Belvedere holds the largest Gustav Klimt collection anywhere.

Yes, the Klimt collection includes his most famous painting, The Kiss.

Next, it’s a short stroll across the street to Arsenalstrasse 1 and the Belvedere 21 Museum of Contemporary Art.

The Belvedere 21 Museum of Contemporary Art displays 20th and 21st-century works in a sleek Mid-Century Modernist cultural center.

Address: Belvedere Palace (Schloss Belvedere) | Prinz-Eugen-Strasse 27 | 1030 Vienna Austria

City Park (Stadtpark)

In a great location linking the Third District and First District, City Park (Stadtpark) has been the quintessential Viennese municipal park, playground, and urban haven since 1862.

Monuments, sculptures, floral plantings, and verdant green spaces fill its 23.7 acres (95,931 m2).

In 1921, Vienna unveiled its monument to Johann Strauss the Younger.

A century later, the gilded Waltz King and his gleaming violin, set against a marble Arte Nouveau arch, is the most photographed subject in all of Vienna.

Find the Strauss monument at Stadtpark’s southern end, along the Wienfluss-Promenade.

You may also find a movable hidden gem: one of the best Viennese roast coffee shops on wheels inside Stadtpark.

Espressomobil, a small full-service espresso cart, is generally parked by the flower clock, Blumenuhr.

Address: City Park (Stadtpark) | Parkring | 1010 Vienna Austria and 1030 Vienna Austria

Best Areas to Stay in Vienna: 7th District, Neubau

A great option for artsy, hip, and happening vibes is the Seventh District, Neubau.

Neubau offers not only dynamic arts, culture, and festivals – but also authentic local life.

Cool cafes, lively restaurants, and popular shopping areas welcome locals. As well as visitors who travel like locals.

Art lovers, festival goers, scene makers, and shoppers flock to this exciting area. And coffee connoisseurs, too.

Yes, despite the prevalence of historic cafes throughout Vienna, there are several modern coffee shops in hip residential districts like Niebau.

So if you’re craving an artisanal espresso, you’ll find a small and thriving Third Wave Coffee scene here.

Best Places to Stay in Vienna: 7th District

The 4-star Hotel Gilbert blooms in vibrant Neubau, adjacent to MuseumsQuartier.

Cosmopolitan and sustainable, the boutique hotel presents its green focus upfront with a building facade of living plants. Then, Hotel Gilbert welcomes guests into a soaring atrium.

The bar, restaurant, and other public spaces reverberate with energy. Meanwhile, the guest rooms are chic, sleek, and serene. Hotel Gilbert strives to be “truly your hotel.”

Altstadt Vienna

Sophisticated and sustainable, the luxury boutique hotel Altstadt Vienna is part of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World.

The hotel’s philosophy of sustainability is forward-looking: It’s the first Viennese hotel to earn the Austrian Ecolabel Green Hotel award.

An original spirit of artistic inspiration infuses the property. And its contemporary art collections connect with MuseumsQuartier’s creative mood.

Individually designed guest rooms and suites surprise and satisfy the senses. The style spectrum flows from Baroque to Mid-Century Modern rooms, each interspersed with theatrical flourishes.

Check availability and best prices at Altstadt Vienna and book your stay.

Address: Alstadt Vienna | Kirchengasse 41 | 1070 Vienna Austria

Top Vienna Attractions: 7th District

Museums Quarter (MuseumsQuartier Wien)

Let’s envision the conversion of former court stables into a contemporary cultural district.

Well, that vision is a reality due to the international cultural phenomenon of MuseumsQuartier Wien, also known by its acronym MQ.

MQ makes art and artistry available and accessible to everyone of all ages.

Whether you’re looking for important art museums, an interactive children’s museum, art galleries, or working artist studios – you’ll surely find it in the Museums Quartier.

Address: Museums Quarter (MuseumsQuartier Wien) | Museumsplatz 1 | 1070 Vienna Austria

Mariahilferstrasse Shopping Street

Vienna’s longest shopping street, Mariahilfer Strasse runs approximately one mile (1.8 km). It connects the Sixth District of Mariahilf and the Seventh District of Neubau.

Locals overall frequent the department stores, global clothing brands, and fast fashions flanking the car-free main shopping street.

Make sure to wander down side streets to discover unique boutiques, original stores, and eateries.

Address: Mariahilferstrasse Shopping Street | Mariahilferstrasse | 1060 Vienna to 1070 Vienna Austria

Flea Market at Naschmarket (Flohmarkt am Naschmarkt)

Since the 16th century, the landmark Naschmarkt has been a timeless tradition in Vienna.

Open Monday through Saturday, the Naschmarkt landmark building encloses over 100 stalls of food, fresh produce, flowers, meat, and numerous eateries.

But a good choice for a great place to be on Saturday is outdoors. Specifically, outdoors at the Flea Market at Naschmarkt (Flohmarkt am Naschmarkt).

This outdoor market runs every Saturday, and only on Saturday. Rain or shine, or snow, throughout the year.

Antiques, books, keepsakes, tchotchkes, record albums, music and musical instruments, and miscellaneous treasures overflow the streets.

Meanwhile, many market stalls and food vendors sell a wide array of ready-made delicacies and fresh produce.

Address: Flea Market at Naschmarkt (Flohmarkt am Naschmarkt) | Kettenbrückengasse | 1060 Vienna Austria

Best Areas to Stay in Vienna: 13th District, Heitzing

There is one must-not-miss major attraction in Vienna’s 13th District, Heitzing.

Or rather, one must-not-miss blockbuster attraction. To clarify, it’s the spectacular Schönnbrunn Palace (Schloss Schönbrunn).

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Schoenbrunn Palace is the former imperial summer residence. It’s rather like a rare and remarkable resort for the sovereigns and their children.

The impressively intact imperial estate – including palaces, gardens, a maze, the children’s museum, and the world’s oldest zoo – is open year-round.

Schönbrunn furthermore hosts one of the finest Christmas markets in Vienna, as well as an exquisite Easter Market. Both of these holiday celebrations are family-friendly.

Although Schoenbrunn Palace is an easy ride on Vienna public transportation, some visitors prefer to stay in the area.

Staying near Schoenbrunn Palace specifically allows the opportunity for immediate access. For example, when the entrance gates open early in the morning. Or in the evening for a palatial dinner and classical music concert.

Address: Schönbrunn Palace (Schloss Schönbrunn) | Schönbrunner Schloss-strasse 47 | 1130 Vienna Austria

Best Places to Stay in Vienna: 13th District

The Austria Trend Hotel Maximilian is a small boutique hotel near Schönnbrunn Palace. The hotel entrance is steps from the Hietzinger Tor entrance and a 15-minute walk to the main Palace entrance.

Austria Trend Hotel Maximilian is a new building with an elevator, gym, and sauna. The decor in the public spaces and guest rooms is fresh and modern. Free WiFi is available throughout the property.

Schloss Schönbrunn Palace Grand Suite

Schönbrunn Palace itself holds a hidden gem of imperial-inspired hospitality: A luxury suite fit for a royally romantic couple or family.

The Schloss Schönbrunn Grand Suite covers a stunning 1,798 square feet (167 m2) within the Palace’s East Wing.

The suite layout comprises a fully equipped kitchen, elegant corridors, and a formal living room.

Soaring ceilings, sparkling chandeliers, splendid artwork, and sumptuous fabrics envelop you in splendor and comfort.

Floor-to-ceiling drapes frame huge windows overlooking the Baroque gardens, with spectacular views in every season.

Two opulent bedrooms provide resplendent respite: a primary bedroom with a silken-swathed canopy bed, and a brocade-bedecked second bedroom.

Two marble bathrooms with a walk-in shower and a separate soaking tub complete the unparalleled one-of-a-kind environment.

Finally, the suite features free WiFi, heating, air conditioning, and 24-hour reception on call.

Check available dates and best prices at Schönbrunn Palace Grand Suite and book your stay.

Address: Schloss Schönbrunn Palace Grand Suite | Schönbrunner Schloss-strasse 47 | 1130 Vienna Austria

Where to Drink Coffee in Vienna

Whether 19th-century coffee houses or 21st-century coffee shops, Vienna’s cafes set the scene for warmth and welcome.

UNESCO declared the Viennese coffeehouse culture to be part of Austria’s Intangible Cultural Heritage.

Viennese coffee houses are ideal locations, to quote UNESCO, “in which time and space are consumed, but only coffee is listed on the bill.”

In other words, cafes are among the best places to be and favorite things to do in Vienna.

So, settle in for a good conversation or a good book. Sip a classic melange, a specialty coffee, or a tea. Savor a hearty meal if you’re hungry, and always a palate-pleasing dessert.

This guide to the best cafes in Vienna will help you choose the perfect places for your next trip to Vienna.

How to Get Around Vienna

Vienna International Airport (Wien Flughafen)

The Flughafen Wien Schwechat (VIE) is Austria’s largest and busiest airport serving regional and international airlines.

The driving distance between Vienna International Airport and the First District of Innere Stadt is approximately 12 miles (19.2 km).

Transportation between Vienna International Airport and the city center includes private transfers, taxis, buses, and car rentals.

However, in truth, rental cars aren’t an ideal option in a metropolitan city due to traffic and parking concerns. Especially when public transport is readily and easily available across Vienna.

The Vienna Airport also has its own railway station, with direct trains to Vienna Central Station and multiple rapid transit runs.

Address: Vienna International Airport (VIE) | Flughafen Wien Schwechat | 1300 Schwechat Austria

Vienna Main Train Station (Wien Hauptbahnhof)

Ultra modern and ultra busy, Vienna Main Train Station Wien Hauptbahnhof (Vienna Hbf) was completed in 2015 in the 10th District of Favoriten.

Hauptbahnhof hums with vital transportation around the clock.

Firstly, Vienna Main Train Station is the central station for the Austrian Federal Railways (ÖBB). Accordingly, Vienna Hbf is the hub for domestic, international, and OBB Nightjet trains.

Secondly, the Stadtbahn (S-Bahn) and Untergrundbahn (U-Bahn) rapid transit railways serve commuters throughout the Vienna metropolitan area.

Thirdly, the BahnhofCity Haputbahnhof Mall offers numerous shops, dining outlets, and a supermarket.

Address: Vienna Main Train Station (Wien Hauptbahnhof) | Favoritenstrasse 51, Am Hauptbahnhof | 1100 Vienna Austria

Vienna Public Transportation

Vienna is undeniably delightful to explore. Firstly, the Viennese streets are walkable and enjoyable.

Secondly, Vienna’s far-reaching public transport network runs on time. It’s reliable, easy, efficient, safe, and clean. And also cooled in summer and heated during winter – hooray!

The excellent Vienna public transportation system includes: 

• Untergrundbahn (U-Bahn), the subway.
• Schnellbahn (S-Bahn), the local train.
• Stassenbahn, the tram.
• Autobus, the bus.

The award-winning Vienna City Card makes taking Vienna public transportation even easier, more efficient, and affordable.

In short, it’s how to get around Vienna like a local.

Vienna City Card

When visiting Vienna, we use and recommend the award-winning Vienna City Card to travel anywhere and everywhere in the city.

The Vienna City Card provides unlimited free public transportation in a 24-hour, 48-hour, or 72-hour window upon activation.

It also includes discounts on certain souvenirs, attractions, and other enhancements.

ivie app

The ivie app is the Vienna Tourist Board’s free digital city guide. Packed with maps, essential info, self-guided walks, and insider anecdotes, it’s a helpful companion.

You can download the free ivie app either via the App Store (“ivie – Vienna Guide”), or the Vienna Tourist Board website.

Where to Stay in Vienna: In Conclusion

Where are the best places to stay in Vienna? What are the best neighborhoods in the World’s Most Livable City?

Each of Vienna’s districts conveys certain atmospheres, star attractions, and unique hidden gems. Likewise, each of Vienna’s neighborhoods tells its own individual story.

The closer you get to the heart of the city, then the closer you get to the history of Vienna.

On one hand, each district becomes significantly more desirable – and on the other hand, subsequently more expensive – the closer its proximity to Innere Stadt.

The best choice, in short, is the one that works well for you overall; for example, your travel goals, budget, and itinerary.

For instance, the royal ambiance and regal hotels of the First District may be the perfect place for first-time visitors.

Another time, the best district could be either the Second or the Third District, with relaxed rhythms yet swift access to Innere Stadt.

Or instead the trendy and truly local vibe of the Seventh District would be an ideal place for your travel style.

In any case, regardless of where you choose to stay when you’re visiting Vienna for the first time or on return trips – the elegant and ever-alluring Austrian capital city awaits you.

So, come explore, experience, and be inspired by historic and romantic Vienna.

Because any time is the perfect time to visit Vienna now.

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Where to Stay in Vienna: Map

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Vienna Sources and Recommendations

Cockett, Richard, Vienna: How the City of Ideas Created the Modern World. Yale University Press, 2024.

Goldstone, Nancy, The Rebel Empresses: Elisabeth of Austria and Eugénie of France, Power and Glamour in the Struggle for Europe. Little, Brown, and Company, 2025.

Hamann, Brigitte, The Reluctant Empress: A Biography of Empress Elisabeth of Austria. Faber and Faber, 2011.

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

Rady, Martyn, The Habsburgs: The Rise and Fall of a World Power. Penguin Books Ltd., 2022.

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

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FAQs

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