Where to Stay in Vienna – Neighborhoods & Area Guide

The capital city of Austria, Vienna is a phenomenal destination for travelers who have a love of fine art. Once home to some of the most influential artists, composers, and authors of the past three centuries, Vienna is a cultural overload.

There is a strong coffee house culture in Vienna and it is possible to spend the entirety of a trip hopping from one to the next. In fact, food culture as a whole is strong in Vienna. With influences from all across Europe meeting in Vienna, there is so much to feast upon.

As with so many ancient European cities, Vienna is awash with exquisite architecture from some of the world’s finest architects. St Stephen’s Cathedral dates back to the medieval era, whereas the iconic Hofburg palace is built in Baroque style.

It would be unfair to assume that because Vienna is a historical city that it is a destination catering to the older traveler. Nothing could be further from the truth. Vienna is a popular stop off along the European internal route and there are a number of family-friendly attractions too. The House of Music and the Hop-On-Hop-Off Bus Tour are a great starting point.

Let’s explore where to stay in Vienna.

Innere Stadt

Innere Stadt is the most popular neighborhood to stay in Vienna and the most central too. Innere Stadt translates to ‘inner city’ and this central neighborhood is the most iconic area of Vienna.

For the first-time travelers to Vienna or those who are on a whistle-stop tour, staying in Innere Stadt is the best choice. Many of the must-visit attractions sit within Innere Stadt – Opera House, Hofburg Wien and Museum Judenplatz to name but a few.

Innere Stadt is well geared-up for tourists and there are countless tourist information centers, tour operators, and souvenir shops to explore. Vienna is an easy city to navigate but there is always someone nearby who can lend a hand with directions.

While in Innere Stadt, visitors have the opportunity to learn about the rich and varied history of Vienna. St Stephen’s Cathedral is one of the most famous landmarks in the neighborhood. St Peter’s Catholic Church features ornate art of the Baroque era.

Good For: Active Travelers, Art Lovers, Architecture Enthusiasts, Budding Historians, City Slickers, Couples, Culture Vultures, First Time Visitors, Families, Foodies, Luxury Travelers, Sightseers, Shopaholics, Whistle-Stop Travelers

Neighborhood Highlights: Opera House, Hofburg Wien, Museum Judenplatz, St Stephen’s Cathedral, St Peter’s Catholic Church, Mozarthaus Vienna, Imperial Treasury Vienna, Albertina, Wien Museum Beethoven Pasqualatihaus, Anchor Clock, Stadtpark, Kaisergruft, Museum of Applied Arts, Johann Strauß Monument, Winter Palace of Prince Eugene

Hotel Recommendations:

DO&CO Hotel Vienna – DO&CO Hotel Vienna is a modern and stylish hotel in the heart of Vienna. Offering the full 5-stars, DO&CO is one of the best hotels in the city. There are multiple dining options within the hotel and the ONYX Bar is a firm favorite hangout spot for guests.
Hotel Lamée – Hotel Lamée has an impressive rooftop terrace that offers amazing panoramic views over Vienna. Set just a 200-meter walk from St Stephen’s Cathedral, Hotel Lamée could not be in a better location if it tried. There is an urban, modern feel to Hotel Lamée that fits with the stylish nature of Vienna.
Vienna Marriott Hotel – Vienna Marriott Hotel is a top pick in Innere Stadt. The bedrooms are generously sized, as are the luxurious ensuite bathrooms. There are spacious suites available too. The whole hotel was renovated in 2017 and the place is spotlessly clean. There is an indoor swimming pool, a luxurious spa, and a fitness center.

Alsergrund

Sitting just to the north of Innere Stadt is the elegant neighborhood of Alsergrund. Now home to a strong LGBT community, students, and artists, there is a thriving indie music scene and Alsergrund is one of the most trendy neighborhoods in all of Vienna.

Alsergrund is home to one of the most famous landmarks in Vienna, the Freud Museum. Set within a gorgeous 19^th Century building, the Freud Museum is one of the most enlightening places to explore in Vienna.

For travelers keen to enjoy the arts and the city’s history during the day and to experience the nightlife scene after dark, Alsergrund is a great place to stay. That said, day-drinking is a popular pastime in Vienna; there are dozens of shaded beer gardens in Alsergrund serving up perfectly chilled European beers and ales.

One of the most famous landmarks in Alsergrund is Votivkirche. Built in 1879, Votivkirche was constructed out of gratitude for the Emperor’s survival of an assassination attempt.

Good For: Active Travelers, Art Lovers, Architecture Enthusiasts, Budding Historians, City Slickers, Couples, Culture Vultures, Foodies, Music Lovers, LGBT Travelers, Sightseers, Shopaholics, Party People, Young Travelers

Neighborhood Highlights: Sigmund Freud Museum, Votivkirche Church, Gartenpalais Liechtenstein, Wien Museum Schubert’s Birthplace, Bezirksmuseum Alsergrund, Galerie Agora, Strauss Museum Wien, Sigmund-Freud Park, Botanical Garden Bar, Strudlhofstiege, Beaver Brewing Company, Lichtentaler Pfarrmuseum. Lichtenthal Brau – Brew Pub, Arne-Carlsson-Park, Maria Verkündigung – Servitenkirche, Kloster Church, Österreichisches Pharma- und Drogistenmuseum

Hotel Recommendations:

Hotel & Palais Strudlhof – Hotel & Palais Strudlhof is a fabulous hotel in Vienna. Set in the heart of Alsergrund, the hotel is surrounded by 2,000 m² parks. There is a breakfast buffet served each day featuring homemade yogurt. All rooms feature a flat-screen TV and a mini bar. There is free WiFi.
The Harmonie Vienna – The Harmonie Vienna is one of the most popular hotels in the Alsergrund neighborhood. The whole hotel was redesigned and renovated in 2013 and retains its shiny newness well. The spacious rooms each include a work desk and a laptop safe. There is an ensuite bathroom with luxury bathrobes too.
MyPlace – Premium Apartments Riverside – For travelers who want their own space in Vienna, MyPlace – Premium Apartments Riverside is a great choice. Each large apartment offers a living room space complete with a flat-screen TV. There is a kitchen area with enough equipment to create light meals. There is a fitness center and a sauna for complimentary use.

Weiden

Weiden is also known as the 4th District of Vienna. The focal landmark of Weiden is the elaborate Baroque church of Karlskirche. Built in the 18^th Century, Karlskirche is an elegant, domed cathedral. There is a 32.5-meter long platform from which visitors can enjoy views of the exquisite frescos.

Karlskirche is set within Karlsplatz and Resselpark park and garden. This is a popular relaxation spot for students and worn-out travelers. This is one of the most iconic landmarks in Vienna and is well worth a visit. The architecture is some of the finest in the city and the garden complex is gorgeous.

Another must-visit gems in Wieden neighborhood is the Wien Museum Karlsplatz. This too sits within the Karlsplatz complex and showcases artifacts from Vienna’s Roman past.

The Palais Schwarzenberg is another iconic landmark in Weiden. Built in 1907 as a summertime residence, Palais Schwarzenberg features a casino, a restaurant, and an expansive garden complex. The water fountain is beautiful and is colorfully lit up at night.

Good For: Active Travelers, Art Lovers, Architecture Enthusiasts, Budding Historians, City Slickers, Couples, Culture Vultures, Foodies, Music Lovers, Travelers, Sightseers, Shopaholics, Whistle-Stop Travelers

Neighborhood Highlights: Karlskirche, Karlsplatz , Wien Museum Karlsplatz, Palais Schwarzenberg, Belvedere Palace, Lower Belvedere, University of Vienna Botanical Garden, Belvedere Superiore, Mozartbrunnen, Wien Museum Schubert’s last residence, Miniatur Tirolerland Amusement Park, Heumühle, Margaretenhof, Dritte Mann Museum, Rauchfangkehrermuseum, Paulanerkirche Church

Hotel Recommendations:

Hotel Johann Strauss – Hotel Johann Strauss is a very good hotel in Weiden. Just 100-meters from the nearest underground station Hotel Johann Strauss is an ideally located hotel that makes exploring Vienna very easy indeed. There is air conditioning in every room and free WiFi too. There is a champagne breakfast available.
Suite Hotel 900 m zur Oper – Suite Hotel 900 m zur Oper can be found within the Weiden neighborhood in the Naschmarkt quarter. A lavish breakfast buffet is included in the room rate, as is WiFi. There are both rooms and studio apartments available. The studios come equipped with a kitchenette. There is an in-house coffee bar too.
Das Triest Hotel – Das Triest Hotel is in a great location in the heart of Weiden. Boasting 5-star service, guests rave about their time at Das Triest Hotel. There is a modern and stylish feel and the property was once a stable complex. The stable has been converted into suites and relaxed hotel lounges.

Josefstadt

Bordering both Alsergrund and Innere Stadt, the neighborhood of Josefstadt gives travelers the chance to experience modern Vienna within easy reach of the city’s historic quarters.

Trendy and upmarket Josefstadt is Vienna’s main shopping district. There are dozens of high street stores dotted throughout the neighborhood but it is the quirky boutiques and independent fashion stores that really pique the interest of international visitors.

Josefstadt is a popular area for the students of Vienna to hang out in, and as such, the coffee culture in Josefstadt is as strong as it is in the rest of the city. The arts scene in Josefstadt is prevalent. There are a number of hidden playhouses showcasing some of Austria’s hottest undiscovered talent.

Being a popular student hangout, it will come as no surprise to learn that the nightlife scene in Josefstadt is thriving too. The neighborhood is home to some of the best clubs in the city. Chelsea is a firm favorite, as is iconic Rhiz.

Neighborhood Highlights: Rhiz Club, Chelsea Club, Rathaus Town Hall, Stefan-Zweig-Haus, Palais Damian, Kaiser Franz Joseph Hutmuseum, Pfarre Maria Treu, Bäckermuseum, Volkskundemuseum Wien, Schönbornpark, Gerhard Herinek Archeological Museum, Biedermeierhaus, Silent Cinema on the campus of the University of Vienna, Isisbrunnen, Palais Strozzi

Hotel Recommendations:

Hotel Korotan – Hotel Korotan is a very good hotel in Josefstadt. The rooms are compact and cozy and there are family rooms available. The hotel offers a breakfast buffet on a daily basis that features soft, homemade bread and kefir. The staff are very helpful and have a good knowledge of the local area.
Hotel-Pension Wild – Hotel Pension Wild is set within a period building constructed in 1904. Having been recently renovated, Hotel Pension Wild blends the old Vienna with the new. Hotel Pension Wild is a bestselling hotel in Vienna that gets booked up long in advance. Both rooms and apartments are available.
Hotel Pension Baronesse – Hotel Pension Baronesse is a 4-star hotel in the center of Josefstadt. Run by a local family, Hotel Pension Baronesse is a top pick in Josefstadt. The rooms are just the right size and all feature free WiFi. The front reception is open 24-hours a day.

Leopoldstadt

Leopoldstadt is a largely residential area of Vienna that borders Innere Stadt. Although residential and tourism don’t usually go together, for intrepid explorers keen to experience authentic Vienna, Leopoldstadt makes for a great base.

With just over 100,000 people packed into the neighborhood, Leopoldstadt is a happening spot in Vienna. The historical landmarks of Innere Stadt are just a stone’s throw away, so a stay in Leopoldstadt means that travelers don’t miss a beat. Sitting along the banks of the Danube River, Leopoldstadt is one of the most photogenic neighborhoods in Vienna.

Must visit spots in Leopoldstadt include Kunst Haus Wein and the colorful Hundertwasser House. Jesuitenwiese is a gorgeous spot for some inner-city summer sunbathing. The Prater amusement park sits within Jesuitenwiese and features vintage fairground rides and a giant Ferris wheel.

Leopoldstadt is home to the Ernst Happel Stadium. For travelers heading to Vienna to watch a Europa League football match, Leopoldstadt is the best place to stay.

Good For: Active Travelers, Art Lovers, Architecture Enthusiasts, Budget Backpackers, Budding Historians, City Slickers, Couples, Culture Vultures, Sightseers, Like a Local Travelers, Off the Beaten Track Travelers, Young Travelers

Neighborhood Highlights: Jesuitenwiese Park, Hundertwasser House, Kunst Haus Wein, Messe Wien Exhibition Congress Center, Ernst Happel Stadium, Huma Eleven Shopping Mall, River Danube, Schweizerhaus Beer Garden, Viennese Giant Ferris Wheel, Prater Amusement Park, Augarten Park, Wiener Stadionbad Outdoor Swimming Pool

Hotel Recommendations:

Motel One Wien-Prater – Motel One Wien-Prater is a superb hotel in Leopoldstadt within a 200-meter walk of the Messe-Prater Underground Station. The rooms are modern and bright. All feature air-conditioning and are well sound-proofed. Guests are welcome to enjoy a drink at the bar or a lite bite at the snack bar.
Austria Trend Hotel Messe Wien Prater – Austria Trend Hotel Messe Wien Prater is a fabulous hotel in Leopoldstadt. Just a few steps away from the Giant Ferris wheel, this hotel is perfect for families. Spacious family rooms are available. Set within a modern and eye-catching building, Austria Trend Hotel is a top pick in Vienna.
Courtyard by Marriott Vienna Prater/Messe – Courtyard by Marriott Vienna Prater/Messe is a very well equipped hotel in Leopoldstadt. They have an in-house spa complex with an extensive treatment menu, in addition to a superb fitness center. All rooms are air-conditioned and have tea and coffee making facilities. Breakfast is included in some room rates.

Landstrasse

High-class and rather affluent, the neighborhood of Landstrasse can be found within the inner sphere of Vienna’s city center. The district in which the embassies from other nations can be found, Landstrasse is a refined neighborhood that is exciting to explore.

There are dozens of palaces to be discovered in Landstrasse, many of which have been renovated into the aforementioned embassies. There is a great deal of French design influence in Landstrasse. The gardens set within the neighborhood are some of the most immaculately kept in all of the city.

Landstrasse offers travelers easy access to the Belvedere museum and gallery complex – it borders the neighborhood of Wieden. The Belvedere 21 gallery is home to a contemporary collection of art and a cinema too.

The Remise – Transport Museum Vienna Lines is a bit of a novelty but is very informative. It is one of the most popular attractions in the neighborhood. A particular favorite with young families.

Neighborhood Highlights: Belvedere 21 Contemporary Art Gallery, Belvedere Palace, Lower Belvedere, Schweizergarten Park, University of Vienna Botanical Garden, Museum of Military History, Mak Tower, Arenbergpark, Palais des Beaux-Arts, Galleria Shopping Mall, Stadtpark, Hundertwasser House, Kunst Haus Wien, The Remise – Transport Museum Vienna Lines, Modena Park

Hotel Recommendations:

Hotel Spiess & Spiess – Hotel Spiess & Spiess is an excellent hotel in Landstrasse. They serve an impressive breakfast and cater to all dietary types. All the rooms have air conditioning and are well soundproofed. The rooms are modern, bright and minimalist, offering guests plenty of space to totally unpack and feel right at home.
Mercure Grand Hotel Beidermeier Wien – Mercure Grand Hotel Biedermeier Wien is a very good hotel in Landstrasse. Set on a quiet street close to the city park, Mercure Grand Hotel is perfect for couples on a romantic retreat to Vienna. This is a popular choice, especially in high season. Premium rooms get booked up quickly.
Eurostars Embassy – Eurostars Embassy is a top pick hotel in Vienna. There is a 24-hour front desk and WiFi is available throughout the hotel. The rooms are modern with a chic finish and very comfortable beds. Premium services such as laundry, tours and airport shuttles are available for an additional cost.

Kaisermühlen

For long-term travelers seeking an off the beaten track destination in Vienna, Kaisermühlen is an ideal place to stay. Far enough away from the busy city center to be affordable but close enough to feel involved, Kaisermühlen is a hidden gem.

Set on the opposite side of the river to Innere Stadt, Weiden, and Alsergrund, Kaisermühlen offers travelers the opportunity to experience an alternative side to Vienna. Kaisermühlen is, in fact, an island on the Danube, connected by a series of bridges to the mainland.

Kaisermühlen is home to the Vienna International Center. This complex is one of the largest United Nations offices. The building itself is impressive in terms of architecture.

Donau Park covers a large area of Kaisermühlen and is one of the quiet and more spacious parklands within Vienna. There is a public swimming pool, an outdoor stage, and a sports complex. Donau Park is popular with locals and travelers alike. The focal point of the park is the iconic Danube Tower.

Neighborhood Highlights: Danube Tower, Donau Park, Vienna International Centre, Sportscenter Donaucity, Strandbad Alte Donau Public Swimming Pool, Korea Kulturhaus Österreich, Sparefroh-Spielplatz Playground, Donauparkbahn Novelty Train Line

Hotel Recommendations:

Melia Vienna – Melia Vienna is an up-market hotel in Kaisermühlen. Many rooms offer gorgeous views of the fast-flowing Danube Rover from the floor-to-ceiling windows. Each room features a luxury Nespresso machine that comes with two complimentary coffee capsules each day of the stay.
NH Danube City – NH Danube City is a wonderful hotel in Kaisermühlen. The rooms are spacious and feature elegant design features. Guests have access to free WiFi throughout the hotel and breakfast is included in most room rates. The in-house restaurant serves excellent Spanish tapas and other international cuisines.
Lenas Donau Hotel – Lenas Donau Hotel is a good choice for travelers keen to stay in Kaisermühlen. The river beach is a 7-minute walk away and the nearest underground station just 5-minutes. There is a wonderful breakfast buffet included in the room rate, included sweet treats like pop cakes and frozen yogurt.

Innere Stadt

Alsergrund

Weiden

Josefstadt

Leopoldstadt

Landstrasse

Kaisermühlen

Where to Stay in Vienna – Neighborhoods & Area Guide: