Located in the east of Austria, on the Danube River, Vienna is considered one of the most beautiful cities in Europe. Known for its exquisite baroque architecture and incredible museums, it is the perfect destination for travellers looking for art and culture. But Vienna has more to offer. The Austrian capital is also a creative hub with a flourishing startup scene and fantastic and vibrant nightlife. If you’re looking for the best areas to stay in Vienna, you have stumbled upon the right article.
Founded around 500 B.C.E. by the Celts, it became a Roman city in the 1st century C.E. During the Middle Ages, it grew into the defacto capital of the Holy Roman Empire and residence of the powerful Habsburg dynasties. The Austrian and later Austro-Hungarian empires saw the city become a truly imperial capital, with many aristocratic families building palaces and residences. By the 18th century, Vienna became a centre of culture and learning. Vienna is also famous as the home of many notable musicians, artists and philosophers, including Ludwig van Beethoven, Sigmund Freud, Gustav Klimt, Franz Schubert, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and Johann Strauss.
Today, Vienna is a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site. It is famous for its many tourist attractions, including Schönbrunn Palace, St. Stephen’s Cathedral, Hofburg Imperial Palace, Albertina Museum and Belvedere Palace. Thanks to its booming tourist industry, Vienna has a wide array of places to stay, from the most luxurious hotels to hostels and budget accommodations.
Whether you’re travelling to Vienna for a cultural trip or as a business traveller, keep reading this article to learn more about the best areas to stay in Vienna, Austria.
Accommodation Options in Vienna
If you don’t have time to read the full article, this is a summary of our recommended areas in Vienna. Keep on reading to find out more information about each of these neighbourhoods.
- Best area for sightseeing: Innere Stadt (Old Town)
- Most central area to stay: Near St. Stephen’s Cathedral
- Area with the best transport connections: Near Karlplatz station | Hauptbahnhof area
- Cheapest central area to stay: Favoriten
- Best area for business travellers: Near Messe Wien (Congress Fair) | Donaustadt
- Best Location for families: Leopoldstadt
- Best area for hipsters: Neubau
- Best area for LGBT travellers: Near Naschmarkt
What’s the Best Area to Stay in Vienna?
The best area to stay in Vienna is the City Centre, especially if you’re a first-time visitor. Vienna’s centremost neighbourhoods are home to many attractions, including the Hofburg, St. Stephen’s Cathedral and the Belvedere Palace. This district is also where some of the best-rated hotels in Vienna are located.
Find available accommodation in Vienna City Centre.
Best Hotels in Vienna City Centre
- Best five-star hotel: Hotel Sacher Wien
- Best four-star hotel: Boutiquehotel Das Tyrol
- Best three-star hotel: Hotel Austria – Wien
- Best budget hotel: Hotel Graf Stadion
- Best B&B: Benediktushaus im Schottenstift
- Best hostel: CH-Hostel
- Best tourist apartments: REMA Fehrienwohnung Schwedenplatz
Where to Stay in Vienna for Sightseeing
As mentioned above, Vienna City Centre is the best location for tourists in the Austrian capital. That said, each Viennese neighbourhood has a distinct atmosphere and different attractions. These are some of the nicest quarters to stay in Vienna:
- Surrounded by the grand Ringstrasse boulevard, Vienna’s Innere Stadt is the city’s historic heart. It is home to most of the Austrian capital’s attractions, including St. Stephen’s Cathedral, Michaelerplatz and the Spanish Riding School, and important museums like the Albertina and Kunsthistorisches Museum. The Historic City Centre is also where many of the city’s top-rated hotels, like Hotel Sacher Wien and Rosewood Vienna, are located.
- Located west of the city centre, Neubau is the city’s hipster district and Museum Quarter. Home to the mumok Modern Art Museum, Leopold Museum and Museum of Natural History, this vibrant area is within walking distance from the Old Town and packed with alternative nightlife and lovely coffee houses. Our favourite hotels include the Small Luxury Hotel Altstadt Vienna and the Boutique Hotel Kugel.
- Home to the Belvedere Palace, Landstraße is one of the most elegant districts in Vienna. It is dotted with foreign embassies and stately buildings. As expected, this upscale district is also where many top-notch luxury properties, including Parks 73 The Townhouse Hotel and Hotel Am Konzerthaus Vienna, are located.
- Home to the famous Naschmarkt, edgy Mariahilf is one of the best districts to stay in Vienna. Some of the best-rated hotels here include Boutiquehotel Das Tyrol and Hotel Josephine.
- Centred around Karlskirche, about 10 minutes walking from the Old Town, Wieden is an upscale area with lovely hotels such as the Hotel Erzherzog Rainer.
- Separated from the city centre by the Danube Canal, Leopoldstadt is the traditionally Jewish neighbourhood in Vienna. It is home to the famous Riesenrad Ferris wheel, Prater and the Wien Messe fairgrounds. A great hotel in this area is the BASSENA Wien Messe Prater.
The Best Areas for Tourists in Vienna: District by District
Vienna is divided into 23 numbered Gemeindebezirke (municipal districts), further subdivided into dozens of smaller quarters. From a tourist’s standpoint, these are some of the districts to keep in mind when trying to find out the most convenient location to stay in Vienna:
1. Innere Stadt: Best Location in Vienna for Sightseeing
Located in Vienna’s heart and packed with attractions, the Innere Stadt is the Austrian capital’s historic, political and commercial epicentre.
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Why is this the best area to stay in Vienna:
- Heart of the city
- Best area for sightseeing
- Near the main attractions of the city
- Pedestrian-friendly
- Best area for luxury shopping
- St. Stephen’s Cathedral
- Museums and art centres
- Baroque architecture
- Connected by metro
- Luxury hotels
Innere Stadt is the best area to stay in Vienna to experience its magic. It is the 1st District of the city.
The Innere Stadt (Inner City or Historical City Centre) is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it extends over three square kilometres.
It is an area full of history, palaces, classical music venues, coffee shops, restaurants and high-end stores.
Innere Stadt attractions include the Graben promenade, the Stephansplatz, the Karlsplatz, the Rathausplatz or the Kohlmarkt.
When it comes to architecture, here, you will find a mix of medieval, baroque, historicist, art nouveau, modernist and contemporary buildings.
The Old Town is mainly pedestrian and occupies the area bounded by the Ringstrasse, which also houses many metro stops (U-Bahn) to make your transfer to other areas more accessible.
The main square in this area is Stephansplatz, where the old Gothic cathedral is located. Its north tower offers excellent views of the city.
Right next to the square is the wonderful Graben pedestrian boulevard, the most beautiful promenade in Vienna, lined with palaces and designer shops.
The accommodation options in the Innere Stadt are very varied, with a majority of elegant luxury hotels. While accommodation costs in this area are usually higher, it is worth staying here to be close to the city’s main attractions.
Innere Stadt is the best area to stay in Vienna if you are looking for comfort, excellent transport connections, and budget is not a problem.
Best Hotels in Innere Stadt, Vienna
Rosewood Vienna
Set in Vienna, a few steps from St. Peter’s Catholic Church, Rosewood Vienna offers accommodation with a fitness centre, private parking, a terrace and a restaurant. With free WiFi, this 5-star hotel offers room service and a 24-hour front desk.
Hotel Domizil
Located in the heart of Vienna’s Old Town, Hotel Domizil is only steps away from St. Stephen’s Cathedral. Free WiFi is available throughout the property.
Hotel Kärntnerhof
Decorated in a blend of the Viennese Art Nouveau and Italian elegance, the Kärntnerhof is set in a quiet location in Vienna’s city centre, only a 5-minute walk from Saint Stephen’s Cathedral. It offers free in-room WiFi.
Gästehaus Deutscher Orden Wien
Located in Vienna and with the House of Music reachable within 600 metres, Gästehaus Deutscher Orden Wien provides concierge services, allergy-free rooms, a garden, free WiFi throughout the property and a terrace.
Singerstrasse 21/25 Apartments
The Singerstrasse 21/25 Apartments enjoy a quiet location in the centre of Vienna, just 300 m from the Stephansplatz Underground Station and Saint Stephen’s Cathedral. Each of the spacious apartments is air-conditioned and offers free WiFi access.
Pension Suzanne
Located in the heart of Vienna, only a 5-minute walk from Saint Stephen’s Cathedral, Pension Suzanne offers units with antique furniture and free Wi-Fi. The family-run guest house is just a 1-minute walk from the Karlsplatz Underground Station.
CH-Hostel
Well located in Vienna, CH-Hostel provides a buffet breakfast and free WiFi. Featuring a shared lounge, the hostel is close to several noted attractions.
2. Neubau & Museum Quarter: Best Location for Hipsters & Young Travellers
Home to the Museum District, Neubau is one of the top areas to stay in Vienna, Austria.
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Why is this the best area to stay in Vienna:
- Museum Quarter
- Great metro connections
- Cheaper accommodation than in Innere Stadt
- Pedestrian-friendly
- Alternative area
- Galleries and vintage shops
- Hipster bars
Neubau, the 7th district of Vienna, is located west of the Historic Centre. It includes the famous Museum District and the city’s alternative and hipster hangouts.
Although not far from the Old Town, Neubau offers a different vision of Vienna than the palatial and baroque Innere Stadt.
Neubau was born as an agricultural area on the city’s outskirts that later became an industrial area.
Today, this neighbourhood is home to a large student population, young families and artists. Neubau has been compared to East London or East Berlin.
Despite being the official Museum District of Vienna, Neubau’s appeal has less to do with classical architecture and art and more with its alternative and quirky shops specialising in everything from vintage clothing and furniture to records or board games.
Neubaugasse, the area’s main thoroughfare, combines vintage stores and high-end clothing boutiques. This area also has a hot restaurant and café scene, with new venues constantly appearing.
Neubau is connected to the rest of the city through the U3 metro stations Museumsquartier, Neubaugasse, Zieglergasse and Westbahnhof.
Best Hotels in Neubau, Vienna
Hotel Sans Souci Wien
Hotel Sans Souci Wien is situated directly opposite the Museum Quarter and a 5-minute walk from the Ringstraße Boulevard in the centre of Vienna. The large Sans Souci Spa includes an indoor pool. Free WiFi is available.
Small Luxury Hotel Altstadt Vienna
Located in a renovated historic building in the popular Spittelberg quarter, this elegant 4-star boutique hotel is just a 5-minute walk from the Museum Quarter. It offers free WiFi and air-conditioned rooms.
Boutique Hotel Kugel Wien
Located in a historic building from 1850 in Vienna’s lively 7th district, Boutique Hotel Kugel Wien is only a 5-minute walk from the charming Spittelberg area.
Flemings Conference Hotel Wien
Flemings Conference Hotel Wien is only a 5-minute walk from Westbahnhof station and Vienna’s most prominent shopping street Mariahilferstraße.
HeyMi Apartments Mondschein
HeyMi Apartments Mondschein in Vienna is less than 1 km from Leopold Museum and provides air-conditioned accommodation with free WiFi and access to a terrace.
Continental Hotel-Pension
Just around the corner from the Mariahilfer Straße shopping street, this family-run hotel is only 30 m from the Neubaugasse underground station. Free Wi-Fi is available in public areas.
Vienna Boutique Hostel
Located in Vienna and within 1 km of Wiener Stadthalle, the Vienna Boutique Hostel features a shared lounge, allergy-free rooms, and free WiFi throughout the property.
3. Landstraße: Best Location for a Luxury Holiday in Vienna
With the impressive Belvedere Palace as its main attraction, Landstraße is one of Vienna’s most unique areas to stay.
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Why is this the best area to stay in Vienna:
- Belvedere Palace
- Great metro & train connections
- Rochusmarkt
- Upscale district
- Quiet & charming area
Landstraße is Vienna’s 3rd District. It is one of the best areas to stay in the Austrian capital.
For the most part, Landstraße is a high and upper-middle-class neighbourhood.
However, Landstraße is a large district with many faces: densely populated residential streets, quiet gardens around the Belvedere palace, and renovated industrial areas in the south.
Schloß Belvedere is, without a doubt, the district’s main attraction. It was intended as a summer residence for Prince Eugene of Savoy. Today, it is an art gallery that houses the most extensive collection of Gustav Klimt’s paintings worldwide.
Landstraßer Haupstraße is the main shopping street in the neighbourhood, with a wide variety of businesses, from pubs and clubs to organic shops and thrift stores.
The Rochus Market, or Rochusmarkt, is located in a charming, open, sunny square and is another one of the top attractions in Landstraße.
This Vienna district is one of the best-connected areas of the city. Not only is the U3 one of the most convenient metro lines, but the Wien Mitte train station also has U4 and Schnellbahn (city commuter trains) connections.
Best Hotels in Landstraße, Vienna
InterContinental Wien, an IHG Hotel
Located in the heart of Vienna, facing the Stadtpark, the InterContinental Wien is close to all the city’s sights and only a few steps away from the Stadtpark Underground Station.
Parks 73 The Townhouse Hotel
Parks73 The Townhouse Hotel is in Vienna, less than 1 km from the Belvedere Palace and a 10-minute tram ride from the city centre. Boasting a garden and a terrace, this aparthotel features parking and complimentary WiFi.
Garten und Kunsthotel Gabriel City
A 15-minute bus or underground ride from the Ringstraße Boulevard and Saint Stephen’s Cathedral, Garten und Kunsthotel Gabriel City offers free WiFi access and a quiet, lush garden.
Ibis budget Wien Sankt Marx
Located a 2-minute walk from the Erdberg Bus and Underground Station in Vienna’s 3rd district, Ibis budget Wien Sankt Marx offers modern rooms with free air-conditioning and a flat-screen satellite TV.
Parkview Boutique Apartments
Parkview Boutique Apartments offers stylish accommodation units in a historic 19th-century building in Vienna. Stadtpark is right across the street.
KIBI Rooms
Vienna’s KIBI Rooms lies opposite a Billa supermarket and is within 400 m of the Rochus market, public garage parking, the U3 metro station Rochusgasse, a bus station, the Akakiko Japanese restaurant and the Das Rochus cocktail bar.
4. Mariahilf: Best Location for Shopping, Nightlife and LGBTQ+ Travellers
Home to the Naschmarkt, Mariahilf is an upbeat and alternative district in Vienna.
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Why is this the best area to stay in Vienna:
- Best area for nightlife
- Great metro connections
- Vienna’s gay area
- Hipster area
- Quiet & charming area
- Amazing restaurants
- Naschmarkt
Mariahilf is Vienna’s 6th municipal district. It is located southwest of the Historic City Centre.
On its northern end, bordering Neubau, lies Mariahilfer Straße, Vienna’s most important shopping street. With the neighbouring Neubau area, Mariahilf is considered one of Vienna’s hipster areas.
The Mariahilf neighbourhood is home to some of the best restaurants in the city.
Naschmarkt, Mariahilf’s big market, contains more than 120 stalls and sells everything, from antiques and produce to kebabs.
Mariahilf is also one of the best areas to stay in Vienna for nightlife. Club Titanic, founded in the 80s, is a nightclub and Viennese institution.
Mariahilf is also considered one of Vienna’s LGBT neighbourhoods. Many of the city’s gay-friendly nightlife venues are located around Naschmarkt.
To get around, Mariahilf offers U3 and U4 stations. connecting to the City Centre at Kettenbrückengasse, Pilgramgasse Margaretengürtel, as well as U6 connections at Gumpendorfer Straße.
Thanks to its proximity to the Old Town, vibrant nightlife, and colourful atmosphere, Mariahilf is a recommended area to stay in Vienna, especially for young travellers and the LGBTQ+ crowd.
Best Hotels in Mariahilf
Boutiquehotel Das Tyrol
Combining exclusive design with modern Viennese art, this 4-star boutique hotel is located right on the Mariahilfer Straße shopping street and directly opposite the Museum Quarter. A sauna and steam bath can be used free of charge. Free WiFi is available.
Hotel Mocca
Hotel Mocca is located a 5-minute walk from the Neubaugasse and Pilgramgasse Underground Stations and the Mariahilferstraße Shopping Street. The modern rooms are fitted with a flat-screen satellite TV and a safe.
Hotel Terminus
Situated in a quiet side street near the Mariahilfer Straße shopping street, Hotel Terminus offers free Wi-Fi and rooms with satellite TV and a private bathroom.
Oliver Apartments | contactless check-in
Oliver Apartments provides accommodation situated in Vienna’s 6th district. Free WiFi is available for free throughout the property. The Mariahilfer Shopping Street can be accessed 900 m away. The Gumpendorfer Straße Metro Stop (line U6) is 270 m away.
Pension Hotel Mariahilf
Pension Hotel Mariahilf is located directly on the Mariahilfer Straße shopping street, with the Neubaugasse Underground Station (Kirchengasse exit) right outside. Free WiFi is available.
Westend City Hostel
In a renovated historic building dating from 1876, this modern hostel is just 50 m from the Mariahilfer Straße shopping street and a 5-minute walk from the U3 and U6 Westbahnhof Underground Station. It offers free WiFi.
5. Wieden: Best-Connected Area for Tourists in Vienna
With the lovely Karlskirche as its main feature, Wieden is Vienna’s 4th District and is packed with all kinds of accommodation options.
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Why is this the best area to stay in Vienna:
- Karlsplatz & Karlskirche
- Best public transport connections in Vienna
- Cheaper accommodation than in Innere Stadt
- Alternative area
- Near Belvedere Palace
- Near the Central Station
- Musikverein & Kunsthalle
- Naschmarkt
Vienna’s 4th District is located at the site of the former royal summer residence, which was completed during the reign of Ferdinand II and expanded many times until Maria Theresa sold it to the Jesuits. Today it is known as Theresianum.
The development of this district dates back to the beginning of the 18th century. Many palaces and other important buildings were built during that time.
The area is also home to the Kunsthalle and the Musikverein, Vienna’s most famous concert hall.
Wieden is home to an important student population, thanks partly to the Vienna University of Technology, located on Karlsplatz, one of the most beautiful squares in Vienna and its busiest transport hub (lines U1 and U4 converge here).
The Wieden District has a younger and more alternative atmosphere than the elegant Historic City Centre.
The Wieden border in the east is the garden of Belvedere Palace, one of the most recognizable Viennese landmarks. Vienna’s Central Train station lies directly south of the district, making Wieden a very convenient area to stay if you plan to travel to other cities in Austria.
Best Hotels in Wieden, Vienna
Hotel Erzherzog Rainer
Opened in 1913, this traditional Viennese hotel is only a 10-minute walk from the State Opera and the Karlsplatz Underground Station. It offers an Austrian restaurant and free WiFi.
Hotel Attaché
Hotel Attaché offers free Wi-Fi and a daily breakfast buffet. A bus and tram stop is right outside.
Drei Kronen Hotel Wien City
Built in 1894 by the Art Nouveau architect Ignaz Drapala, this 3-star hotel offers a central location near the Vienna State Opera, the Museum Quarter, and the Naschmarkt (open-air market). Free Wi-Fi is available.
Karl Suites Palais Wessely
Situated 400 m from Karlskirche, Karl Suites Palais Wessely offers accommodation with a patio. Complimentary WiFi is available throughout the property, and private parking is available on-site.
Saint Shermin
The stylish, family-run Saint SHERMIN bed, breakfast & champagne offers modern accommodation in the centre of Vienna, just a 5-minute walk from the Karlsplatz Underground Station.
Wombat’s City Hostel Vienna Naschmarkt
This Viennese hostel is located at the Naschmarkt within a 5-minute walk from the U4 metro stop Kettenbrückengasse. Behind a historic façade, guests can find a modern and stylish property with free WiFi and a 24-hour front desk.
6. Leopoldstadt: Best Location for Families
Separated from the Old Town by the Danube Canal, Leopoldstadt is a lovely Vienna district packed with attractions.
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Why is this the best area to stay in Vienna:
- Messe Wien Exhibition & Congress Centre
- Old Jewish quarter
- Lots of green areas
- Riesenrand Ferris wheel
Multicultural Leopoldstadt is Vienna’s 2nd District. It is separated from the Old Town by the Danube Canal.
Due to its relatively high percentage of Jewish inhabitants (which was about 40% of the population before World War II), Leopoldstadt earned the nickname Mazzesinsel (“Matzo Island”).
Karmelitermarkt Kosher food stalls are the centre of this traditionally Jewish neighbourhood’s rich culinary and artistic scene.
The beach bars on the canal are a trendy hangout place in the summer. Meanwhile, the iconic Riesenrad Ferris wheel dominates the Wurstelprater amusement park, and Prater is a vast park packed with recreation spaces.
Leopoldstadt is also one of the best areas to stay in Vienna for business travellers, as it is home to the Messe Wien Exhibition & Congress Centre, Austria’s largest fairground.
Metro lines U1 and U2 connect the neighbourhood with the rest of the city.
Best Hotels in Leopoldstadt, Vienna
SO/ Vienna
Designed by the famous architect Jean Nouvel, this stylish hotel offers panoramic views over Vienna, a gourmet restaurant, a gym, and a 750 m² spa area where guests can relax free of charge. SO Vienna is located only a short walk from all major attractions.
BASSENA Wien Messe Prater
BASSENA Wien Messe Prater lies between parkland and the city in Vienna’s vibrant 2nd district with its Prater amusement park and the exhibition centre. The U2 underground line allows you to reach the historical city centre within 4 minutes.
Hampton By Hilton Vienna Messe
Situated 300 m from Messe Wien, Hampton By Hilton Vienna Messe offers 3-star accommodation in Vienna and has a bar. This 3-star hotel offers a tour desk and luggage storage space. The accommodation features free WiFi throughout the property.
ibis Styles Wien Messe Prater
The ibis Styles Wien Messe Prater hotel lies just a few hundred meters from Prater park, the exhibition centre and Old Town. Right on the doorstep is the Danube Canal.
Zoku Vienna
An innovative apartment hotel designed for living, working and socializing. Located within 4.7 km of Vienna Central Station, Zoku Vienna is designed for professionals, business travellers and remote workers looking for a high-design apartment hotel.
Space Home Apartment – Prater
Space Home Apartment – Prater is situated in Vienna and offers free WiFi and express check-in and check-out.
7. Favoriten: Cheapest Area to Stay in Central Vienna
Located south of the Hauptbahnhof, Favoriten is packed with budget hotels & pensions.
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Why is this the best area to stay in Vienna:
- Cheapest area to stay in Vienna
- Multicultural atmosphere
- International food
- Hauptbahnhof
- Connected by metro
Favoriten is Vienna’s 10th District and is located south of the City Centre.
Favoriten is a densely populated urban area with many residential buildings, large recreational areas, and parks.
Vienna’s Central Railway Station (Wien Hauptbahnhof) is located in Favoriten. Nearby lies Favoritenstraße, one of the busiest commercial pedestrian streets in the city. It runs parallel to metro line U1.
Favoriten is the most populous of the districts of Vienna. The area has a multicultural atmosphere as almost a quarter of its inhabitants are from outside Austria (mainly from Serbia, Turkey, Bosnia, Croatia and Poland). It is packed with international cuisine restaurants and bars.
Being a little further than the neighbourhoods mentioned above, Favoriten is also one of the cheapest areas to stay in Vienna. However, its proximity to the U1 and the Hauptbahnhof makes it very convenient for moving around the city.
Best Hotels in Favoriten
Novotel Wien Hauptbahnhof
Located in Vienna, 800 m from Belvedere Palace, Novotel Wien Hauptbahnhof features a sauna and fitness centre. Guests can enjoy the on-site restaurant.
Motel One Wien-Hauptbahnhof
Motel One Wien-Hauptbahnhof is located right next to Vienna’s Main Train Station. Guests can enjoy the on-site bar and benefit from free WiFi and a 24-hour reception.
ibis Wien Hauptbahnhof
Ibis Wien Hauptbahnhof is located in Vienna, 800 m from Belvedere Palace and 2 km from Vienna State Opera. Guests can enjoy the on-site bar.
Vienna Living Apartments – Senefeldergasse
Located in Vienna, near Vienna Main Railway Station and Museum of Military History, Vienna Living Apartments – Senefeldergasse features free WiFi, and guests can enjoy a terrace.
Pension Kasper
In a quiet location on the southern outskirts of Vienna, this Viennese-style self-check-in guest house offers free WiFi and in-room wired internet. The city centre can be reached by public transport in 25 minutes and by car in 15 minutes.
St Christopher’s Vienna
Located in Vienna and with Vienna Main Railway Station reachable within less than 1 km, St Christopher’s Vienna provides a restaurant, non-smoking rooms, free WiFi throughout the property and a bar.
8. Margareten: A Convenient Area Close to the City Centre
Located west of Wieden, Margareten is a diverse and exciting area to stay in Vienna.
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Why is this the best area to stay in Vienna:
- Cheap area to stay in Vienna
- Multicultural & upbeat
- International food
- Near the city centre
- Connected by metro & tram
Margareten, Vienna’s 5th Municipal District and one of its most densely populated neighbourhoods, is a diverse mix of hipster, multicultural and working-class environments.
It is located south of Mariahilf and Wieden.
The neighbourhood around Margaretenhof is full of cafés, restaurants and fancy shops, while the busy Reinprechtsdorfer Strasse offers Turkish restaurants, Asian noodle bars and thrift stores.
This area is mainly connected by trams and the U1 metro line, which runs along its western border (Pilgramgasse and Margaretengürtel stations).
Margareten is a more relaxed and cheaper alternative to the Old Town. It also offers access to the vibrant neighbourhoods of Mariahilf and Wieden, making it a great area to stay in Vienna.
Best Hotels in Margareten, Vienna
Hotel Indigo Vienna – Naschmarkt, an IHG Hotel
Hotel Indigo Vienna – Naschmarkt, an IHG Hotel, offers accommodation with a fitness centre, private parking, a terrace and a restaurant. This 4-star hotel offers room service, a 24-hour front desk and free WiFi.
Art Hotel Vienna
Located on a quiet street in Vienna’s Margareten district, this elegant design hotel is only a 10-minute bus ride from the city centre. Free Wi-Fi is also available.
ibis Wien City
This smoke-free hotel is located in Vienna’s 5th district, only 2 km from the city centre and a 5-minute walk from the Pilgramgasse and Margaretengürtel U4 Underground Stations. Wi-Fi and wired internet are available free of charge.
HeyMi Apartments Zentagasse
Featuring city views and free WiFi, HeyMi Apartments Zentagasse features accommodation ideally situated in Vienna, within a short distance of Vienna Main Railway Station, Karlskirche and Belvedere Palace.
Room 55
Situated conveniently in the Margareten district of Vienna, Room 55 is non-smoking and is set 2 km from Vienna Main Railway Station.
7brunnen Hostel
7brunnen Hostel has a shared lounge, non-smoking rooms, and free WiFi and offers guests a shared kitchen and luggage storage.
9. Donaustadt: Best Location for Business Travellers
Located northeast of the city centre & Leopoldstadt, Donaustadt is Vienna’s new business hub.
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Why is this the best area to stay in Vienna:
- Luxury & business hotels
- Modern architecture
- Best area for business travellers
- Near the exhibitions centre
- Connected by metro line U1
Donaustadt (Danube City) is the 22nd district of Vienna.
It is a massive and mainly residential neighbourhood. However, this area is home to the brand new Donau City, a modern urban development of office skyscrapers designed to become the commercial and business hub of the city built on an island on the Danube.
Donaustadt is located in the northeast of Vienna, on the east bank of the Danube River.
International companies such as PWC, IBM, Sanofi-aventis and Bauholding Strabag SE have offices in Donau City. There are also several high-tech companies and scientific institutions in Vienna’s first science and technology park, Tech Gate Vienna.
In addition to the institutions mentioned, Donau City is complete with fashion retailers, restaurants, coffee shops and commercial developments.
This Danube district has recreation areas, including Donaupark. Donau City has connections to metro U1, access to the motorway network, and Vienna International Airport is about 20 minutes away.
Donaustadt is known for its many modern-style business hotels and abundant self-catering accommodations.
Best Hotels in Donaustadt
Melia Vienna
Located in Austria’s highest skyscraper, the DC Tower, the Melia Vienna features luxurious and modern rooms and a rooftop terrace with a cocktail bar offering stunning views of the Danube River and the city of Vienna. Free WiFi is provided throughout the entire property.
BASSENA Wien Donaustadt
Located in Vienna, BASSENA Wien Donaustadt provides accommodation with a fitness centre, private parking, a shared lounge and a terrace. Each accommodation at the 4-star hotel has city views, and guests can enjoy access to a restaurant and a bar.
Lenas Donau Hotel
The Lenas Donau Hotel enjoys a quiet location directly at the Alte Donau waterfront, a 5-minute walk from the Alte Donau Underground Station. It offers free WiFi in all areas, a 24-hour front desk, a restaurant and a terrace.
Hotel Donaustadt Kagran
The Hotel Donaustadt Kagran is only a 3-minute walk from the underground station U1 Kagraner Platz. You can reach Vienna’s city centre in 9 minutes.
Residenz Donaucity
Offering a garden, Residenz Donaucity is set in Vienna. Danube Island is 900 m from the property.
10. West Vienna: Best Location for Schönbrunn Palace
Schönbrunn Palace is probably Vienna’s most famous landmark.
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Why is this the best area to stay in Vienna:
- Schönbrunn Palace
- Quiet upscale area
- Lots of self-catering accommodations & tourist apartments
Schloss Schönbrunn, or Schönbrunn Palace, is located on the city’s western outskirts, on the eastern edge of Hietzing, Vienna’s affluent 13th District.
This architectural masterpiece is a stunning example of the Baroque style and holds a rich history dating back to the 16th century. It was the primary summer residence of the Habsburg rulers. Its most famous residents include Emperor Franz Joseph, Empress Elisabeth, best known as Empress Sissi, as well as Empress Maria Theresa and her daughter, Marie Antoinette.
Its distinctive architecture, lush gardens, and intriguing past make it a must-see attraction in Vienna and a symbol of the city’s rich cultural heritage.
The Palace is connected to the city centre by the Schönnbrun railway station and metro line U4, which stops at Hietzing, Schönnbrun and Meidling Hauptstraße.
Best Hotels near Schönbrunn Palace
Quality Hotel Vienna
Quality Hotel Vienna in Vienna provides air-conditioned rooms with free WiFi. It features a 24-hour desk, on-site paid parking and a bar.
Seminarhotel Springer Schlössl
Seminarhotel Springer Schlößl enjoys a quiet location in a scenic, protected park a 12-minute walk from Schönbrunn Palace. Free in-room WiFi and free private parking are available.
HB1 Schönbrunn Budget & Design
HB1 Schönbrunn Budget & Design is a 10-minute walk from Schönbrunn Palace and 200 m from the Technical Museum. Free WiFi is available.
Schloß Schönbrunn Grand Suite
Located in the eastern wing of Schönbrunn Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this exclusive, sumptuously decorated suite lets you enjoy the imperial ambience of the Habsburgs’ former summer residence.
11. Around Vienna Airport: Best Location for a Stopover
Vienna International Airport, or Flughafen Wien-Schwechat (VIE), is the main airport serving the city of Vienna.
It is located in Schwechat, 18 km southeast of Vienna’s Old Town and 57 kilometres west of Bratislava.
It is the largest airport in the country and serves as a hub for Austrian Airlines and Eurowings Europe, as well as a base for low-cost airlines EasyJet Europe, Lauda, Level and Wizz Air.
The airport operates a dense network of European routes and long-distance flights to Asia, North America and Africa.
Three transport options are available when travelling from Vienna International Airport to the Old Town: Taxi, train and bus. Hiring a taxi at the Vienna airport will cost approximately €40 and will only take 20 minutes to reach the centre of Vienna. Regarding trains, travellers have two options: The City Airport Train (CAT) or the Schnellbahn S7 train.
Best Hotels near Vienna Airport
NH Vienna Airport Conference Center
NH Vienna Airport Conference Center is conveniently located directly across from the arrivals hall at Vienna International Airport, making it an ideal choice for late arrivals or early departures. Free WiFi is available.
MOXY Vienna Airport
MOXY Vienna Airport is set in Schwechat, 200 m from Vienna International Airport’s terminals, offering stylish, air-conditioned rooms. The Now 24/7 bar provides snacks and beverages, available 24 hours a day. Free WiFi is available.
Hotel Bauer
A ten-minute drive from Vienna’s city limits, Hotel Bauer offers free in-room Wi-Fi. Rooms at Hotel Bauer feature satellite TV, a desk, and a bathroom with a hairdryer.
Where to Look for Accommodation in Vienna: Useful Info
Vienna is one of the great European cities. As the capital of Austria, Vienna is the centre of the political and economic power of the Alpine country and one of the most sought-after tourist destinations on the continent.
The Austrian capital, located in the northeast of the country, on the banks of the Danube River, is considered one of the most beautiful cities in Europe.
Vienna is famous for its palatial appearance, beautiful baroque architecture, and hosting of some of the most important cultural institutions in the world, particularly in the arts and classical music field.
The history of Vienna is vibrant. The first reports of Vienna (Vindobona) date back to the Romans in the first century BC. In the Middle Ages, Vienna was ruled by the Babenberg dynasty and then, for six hundred years, by Habsburg emperors.
Vienna is famous worldwide for its architecture and importance in the arts and music. Its most prominent and oldest cultural institutions are the Spanish Riding School and the Vienna Children’s Choir. The Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra performs the Vienna New Year concert every year. This concert is broadcast to millions of homes worldwide.
The most emblematic buildings in the city are the former summer residence of the Habsburgs, the Schonbrunn Palace, Stephansdom and the Belvedere Palace. The latter houses the most extensive collection of Gustav Klimt’s works worldwide.
When choosing the best areas to stay in Vienna, the Historical Centre or Innere Stadt is the best alternative, as it is where a good part of its attractions are located. See accommodation in Innere Stadt. If you’re looking for cheap hotels in Vienna, the area south of the train station (Hauptbahnhof), Favoriten, is probably the best option. See hotels in Favoriten.
A handful of cities claim to be “the heart of Europe“. However, Vienna is probably the capital that best meets the requirements to take the title.
The Austrian capital is located in Western Europe but within 50 kilometres of Eastern European countries such as Slovakia or Hungary and is considered the northernmost city of the Balkan Peninsula.
Since medieval times, Vienna has been one of the most prosperous cities in Europe. Its architecture and historical influence in arts, music and science nowadays.
You have to walk through its Old Town (Innere Stadt) to get an idea of the economic power enjoyed by the city, particularly in the Baroque era, when the Austrian monarchs squandered their wealth in luxury palaces.
When we talk about accommodation, the best area to stay in Vienna will always be the Innere Stadt. However, the luxurious character we described earlier is also reflected in the cost of hotels in the area, comparable to those in Paris or Rome. See accommodation in Innere Stadt. Fortunately, somewhat less elegant neighbourhoods offer cheap accommodation in Vienna. Among these areas, we recommend Favoriten. See accommodation in Favoriten.
More good news: Vienna has countless hostels and backpacking options for all budgets. See accommodation in Vienna sorted by price.
Moving through Vienna is very easy. Vienna’s unified public transport network is one of the most efficient in Europe. Flat fare tickets are valid for trains, trams, buses, the metro (U-Bahn) and the S-Bahn regional trains. Services are frequent, and you rarely have to wait more than 10 minutes. For this reason, deciding which area to stay in Vienna will depend more on your taste and not so much on the location. After all, getting from one end of the city to the other can take 20 minutes or less.
Much of the Old Town is pedestrian. Flughafen Vienna is about 18 km from the City Centre. Some trains connect the Old Town with the airport in 25 minutes or less (depending on whether it is the express or the S-Bahn). See accommodation near Vienna’s airport.
All trains that pass through the city stop at Wien Hauptbahnhof, about 25 minutes walk from the Innere Stadt (Old Town). In front of the train station are the main bus terminal and a taxi rank. See accommodation near Wien Hbf.
