Which is the best area to stay in Vienna?

Vienna has a long history, dating back to Roman times when it was a military camp known as Vindobona. Today the capital of Austria is renowned for its historical significance, and modern vibrancy. Vienna consistently ranks high in global quality of life surveys due to its excellent public services, safety, and overall livability, and attracts millions of visitors each year. Here is our guide to finding the best area to stay in Vienna for your next trip.

An introduction to Vienna's districts

Vienna, the capital of Austria, is divided into 23 districts, each with its own unique character.  Known as "Bezirke" in German, these districts each have their own name and number and range from the bustling heart of the city to the more serene and suburban outskirts. 

The Innere Stadt is the historic core, home to St. Stephen's Cathedral, the Hofburg Palace, and a maze of medieval streets. Moving outwards, the 2nd District, Leopoldstadt, is a lively area with the famous Prater park and its iconic Ferris wheel. The 3rd District, Landstraße, hosts the magnificent Belvedere Palace and the Hundertwasserhaus, a quirky apartment complex. 

In the 7th District, Neubau, you'll find a trendy area brimming with indie boutiques and the MuseumsQuartier, one of the world's largest cultural complexes. Each district from the 1st to the 23rd, like the wine-growing Döbling in the 19th or the industrial Simmering in the 11th,  offers a different slice of Viennese life.

Best for first-time visitors: Innere Stadt (1st District)

• My recommendation: Pertschy Palais Hotel
• Location: Close to Vienna State Opera and Kärntner Straße
• Pros: Central location with easy access to major attractions, rich in history and architectural beauty. With a high concentration of museums, restaurants, and shops and with an excellent public transportation connections
• Cons: Can be crowded, especially during peak tourist season, with higher prices for accommodation and dining. Less authentic local feel compared to other districts

The Innere Stadt, Vienna's 1st District, is the historic centre of the city and a UNESCO World Heritage site. This district is encircled by the Ringstrasse, a grand boulevard lined with impressive 19th-century buildings. During the day, the streets are filled with a mix of tourists admiring the architecture and locals going about their business.

Here you'll find the iconic St. Stephen's Cathedral (Stephansdom), a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. The district is home to numerous palaces, including the Hofburg, the former imperial residence, which now houses museums and the Spanish Riding School. 

Art enthusiasts will appreciate the Albertina and Kunsthistorisches Museum, both housing world-class collections. The pedestrian-friendly streets of Kärntner Straße and Graben offer high-end shopping and glimpses of beautiful baroque architecture. For a taste of Viennese cafe culture, the historic Cafe Central and Demel are must-visits. The district also boasts beautiful squares like the Michaelerplatz and Judenplatz, each with its own historical significance, that are great for people watching.

Why I love it:  Walking down its cobblestone streets feels like stepping into a fairy tale, with baroque palaces, hidden courtyards, and grand squares

Best hotels in Innere Stadt

• Best boutique stay: Boutique Hotel Das Tigra. This elegant hotel offers a blend of modern design and Viennese charm in a historic building. Located in the heart of Innere Stadt, it provides easy access to major attractions while offering a cozy, personalized experience.
• Best for history lovers: Pertschy Palais Hotel. Housed in a baroque palace, this hotel immerses guests in Vienna's imperial past. With antique furnishings and spacious rooms, it's perfect for those seeking an authentic historical Viennese experience in a central location.
• Best for business travelers: Mercure Vienna.  This contemporary hotel offers comfortable rooms and modern amenities ideal for business guests. Its central location provides easy access to both business districts and tourist attractions, making it suitable for work and leisure.

Browse hundreds of accommodations in Innere Stadt at any budget.

Best area to stay in Vienna for families: Leopoldstadt

• My recommendation: Superbude Wien Prater
• Location: Close to Prater Amusement Park and Messe Wien Exhibition Center
• Pros: Family-friendly attractions like Prater and large green spaces, good public transportation connections and less crowded and more affordable than the city center.
• Cons: Not as centrally located as the 1st District, yet some parts can be busy due to events at Messe Wien. Fewer historical attractions compared to central Vienna

Leopoldstadt, Vienna's 2nd District, is an island surrounded by the Danube Canal and the Danube River.

The district is most famous for the Prater, a public park with vast green spaces perfect for spending a relaxing day. Within the park you’ll find the iconic Wurstelprater amusement park with its giant Ferris wheel, the Riesenrad. 

Needing a breather, you can then head to the lush Augarten. This baroque park is a perfect spot for a family picnic. While the little ones burn off energy in the playgrounds, you can bask in the serene atmosphere, occasionally catching glimpses of the Vienna Boys' Choir rehearsing nearby.

This district is home to the Karmelitermarkt, a bustling local market. Here you can sample your way through various food stalls, introducing your kids to Viennese delicacies. The Kaiserschmarrn (shredded pancake) is sure to be an instant hit!

If you’re planning your visit in the Summer, Schwedenplatz is lively area along the Danube Canal with food stalls and urban beaches. Those coming in the winter will want to stop at the Planetarium.

Why I love it: What I love most about this area is that it provides a more relaxed, local atmosphere.

Best hotels in Leopoldstadt

• Best boutique stay: Superbude Wien Prater. This trendy, design-focused hotel offers a unique blend of hostel-style community and hotel comfort. Located near the Prater amusement park, it's perfect for young travelers seeking a vibrant atmosphere and creative spaces.
• Best for extended stays: Zoku Vienna. Designed for long-term guests, Zoku offers innovative loft-style apartments with flexible living and working spaces. It's ideal for digital nomads or business travelers needing a home-like environment with communal areas for networking.
• Best for budget-conscious travelers: Hotel Nestroy Wien. This affordable hotel provides comfortable accommodations without compromising on location. Situated near the city center and public transport links, it offers good value for those wanting to explore Vienna without breaking the bank.

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Best area to stay for couples: Neubau

• My recommendation: Hotel Gilbert
• Location: Close to MuseumsQuartier and Spittelberg
• Pros: Trendy and artistic atmosphere, numerous boutique shops, cafes, and restaurants. Close to major museums and cultural institutions.
• Cons: Slightly further from main historical sites in the 1st District, can be busy and noisy, especially on weekends. Limited green spaces compared to other districts.

Neubau is known for its charming cobblestone streets and historic architecture, and is the perfect district for a romantic stroll. The vibe here is trendy and cosmopolitan, but in a relaxed, unpretentious way.

You'll find the area filled with cozy cafes, intimate restaurants, and stylish bars, making it ideal for romantic dinners or casual date nights. Neubau is the type of place where you might stumble upon a cutting-edge art gallery in a centuries-old building (like the Kunsthalle) or a traditional Viennese cafe next to a trendy cocktail bar.

On the eastern edge, you’ll find the MuseumsQuartier, one of the world's largest cultural complexes. It houses institutions like the Leopold Museum and MUMOK (Museum of Modern Art).

Neubau is also home to the charming Spittelberg quarter, known for its well-preserved Biedermeier architecture and boutique-filled alleyways. Mariahilfer Straße, Vienna's longest shopping street, forms the district's southern border.

For green spaces, the small but lovely Weghuberpark provides a quiet retreat. The district is dotted with independent galleries, vintage shops, and trendy cafes, especially along Neubaugasse and Kirchengasse.

Why I love it: Neubau's central location makes it easy to explore other parts of Vienna while offering a more relaxed, less touristy environment than the city center.

Best hotels in Neubau

• Best boutique stay: Hotel Gilbert. This stylish boutique hotel offers a unique blend of contemporary design and Viennese charm. With its rooftop terrace, cozy library, and individually decorated rooms, it provides a personalized experience for discerning travelers seeking a home-away-from-home atmosphere.
• Best for hipsters: Max Brown Hotel 7th District. Located in Vienna's trendy 7th district, this hotel caters to the artsy crowd with its eclectic décor and laid-back vibe. It's perfect for those who want to experience Vienna's creative scene, with easy access to cool cafes, boutiques, and galleries.
• Best for convenience: IntercityHotel Wien. Situated right next to Vienna's main train station, this modern hotel is ideal for travelers prioritizing easy transportation access. It offers comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and even includes a public transport ticket in the room rate for seamless city exploration.

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Best area to stay for culture enthusiasts: Wieden

• My recommendation: MOOONS Vienna
• Location: Close to Karlsplatz and Naschmarkt
• Pros: Rich in cultural institutions and historical sites, less touristy than the city center. Great dining scene and vibrant local markets.
• Cons: Some parts can be busy due to traffic and fewer luxury accommodation options compared to the 1st District

Wieden is Vienna's cultural heartbeat, a district that effortlessly blends high art with everyday Viennese life. There’s a great balance between touristy spots and authentic local hangouts.

Its most famous landmark is Karlsplatz, a grand square that’s home to the stunning Karlskirche, a Baroque masterpiece. Art lovers will appreciate the Belvedere Palace, which houses an impressive collection of Austrian art, including Klimt's famous "The Kiss." For contemporary art, the Kunsthalle Wien at Karlsplatz showcases cutting-edge exhibitions.

The charming Freihausviertel area is dotted with independent boutiques, galleries, and cafes. Check out the concept store Samstag Shop for a curated selection of fashion and design items, and Galerie Hilger NEXT for works by emerging artists.

For a caffeine fix, Café Goldegg provides a traditional Viennese coffee house experience, while Vollpension offers a unique intergenerational concept where older Viennese bake cakes for guests. The trendy Café Anzengruber is known for its local crowd and hearty Austrian cuisine.

The district is also home to the Naschmarkt, Vienna's largest open-air market, which offers both local and international cuisines. Here, you can sample local delicacies or enjoy a meal at popular spots like Neni am Naschmarkt or Tewa.

Why I love it: Wieden maintains an authentic, local feel despite its wealth of attractions. 

Best hotels in Wieden

• Best boutique stay: Saint SHERMIN bed breakfast & champagne. This intimate boutique hotel offers a unique concept combining stylish rooms with a focus on champagne. Its central location, personalized service, and elegant design make it perfect for couples or solo travelers seeking a luxurious yet cozy atmosphere.
• Best for design enthusiasts: MOOONS Vienna. This modern hotel boasts sleek, contemporary design throughout its rooms and public spaces. With its rooftop bar offering panoramic city views and its location near Belvedere Palace, it's ideal for travelers who appreciate cutting-edge aesthetics and urban vibes.
• Best for local experience: grätzlhotel beim Belvedere. This innovative concept spreads individual rooms across various buildings in the neighborhood, allowing guests to live like locals. Each uniquely designed room offers an authentic Viennese experience, perfect for those seeking an immersive stay in the city's culture.

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Best area to stay for budget travelers: Favoriten

• My recommendation: Hotel Schani Wien
• Location: Close to Hauptbahnhof (Main Railway Station) and Belvedere Palace
• Pros: More affordable accommodation and dining options with good public transport connections. Close to Hauptbahnhof for easy access to other parts of Austria.
• Cons: Further from main tourist attractions and less picturesque than central districts

If you want to experience Vienna beyond the postcard views, Favoriten provides an exciting and budget-friendly base.

The district is anchored by the impressive Hauptbahnhof, Vienna's main railway station, which serves as a modern transport hub and shopping center. For a cool hangout spot nearby, check out the Bahnorama observation tower for panoramic views of the city.

 The district is also home to the Ernst-Happel-Stadion, Austria's largest stadium, and the Amalienbad, an impressive Art Deco swimming pool. After a swim, head to nearby Cafe Kremser for a traditional Viennese coffee experience.

For a taste of local culture, the Viktor-Adler-Markt is a vibrant street market reflecting the district's multicultural character. Here, you can sample diverse cuisines at stands like Brunnenmarkt's Turkish gözleme or enjoy a beer at the market's Biergartl.

Cool hangout spots include the Weltcafe, a fair-trade coffee shop with a relaxed atmosphere, and the Sapore restaurant, known for its fusion of Austrian and Italian cuisines. For a unique experience, visit the F23.wir.fabriken, a former coffin factory turned into a cultural space hosting events and workshops.

Why I love it: Favoriten allows you to stretch your budget without compromising on experiences. 

Best hotels in Favoriten

• Best boutique stay: Hotel Schani Wien. This modern, tech-savvy hotel combines innovative design with smart features. Its self-check-in system, co-working spaces, and trendy bar make it ideal for digital nomads and tech-enthusiastic travelers seeking a contemporary Viennese experience.
• Best for families: Adina Apartment Hotel Vienna Belvedere. These spacious apartment-style accommodations offer the perfect blend of hotel amenities and home comforts. With fully equipped kitchens, separate living areas, and a pool, it's excellent for families or groups wanting extra space and self-catering options.
• Best for long-term stays: PhilsPlace Full-Service Apartments Vienna. These well-appointed apartments cater to extended visits, offering a home-away-from-home experience. With modern furnishings, full kitchens, and hotel-like services, they're ideal for anyone planning a longer stay in Vienna.

Browse hundreds of accommodations in Favoriten at any budget.

For a quiet and charming stay: Josefstadt

• My recommendation: Skyflats Vienna - Belle View
• Location: Close to Vienna City Hall (Rathaus) and Josefstädter Straße
• Pros: Quiet, residential atmosphere with charming historical architecture. Close to city center but less touristy.
• Cons: Limited nightlife options and fewer tourist destinations compared to central districts.

Josefstadt, Vienna's smallest district, is a hidden gem known for its tranquil streets and elegant 18th and 19th-century architecture. It's Vienna's best-kept secret—a peaceful urban village that offers a glimpse into the city's more intimate side. This predominantly residential area offers a retreat just steps away from the bustling city center.

In Josefstadt, you can experience Vienna at a slower pace. Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at Cafe Eiles, a traditional Viennese coffeehouse with a history dating back to 1840. For a more modern twist, try the hip Cafe Der Dommayer. From there, explore hidden courtyards and small museums, like the quirky Phonomuseum, dedicated to the history of sound recording.

The district is home to the Theater in der Josefstadt, Vienna's oldest theater still in use, and the Palais Auersperg, a baroque palace that hosts classical concerts. The picturesque Josefstädter Straße, the main thoroughfare, is lined with charming cafes, boutiques, and local shops. 

Why I love it:  Its ability to transport you to a quieter, more elegant Vienna of the past, while still keeping you close to the heart of the modern city. 

Best hotels in Josefstadt

• Best boutique stay: ARTIST Boutique Hotel. This unique hotel celebrates Vienna's artistic heritage with each room designed to honor a different Austrian artist.
• Best for independent travelers: The Levante Rathaus Apartments. These well-equipped apartments offer the flexibility of self-catering with the comfort of hotel amenities. Located near the Rathaus, they're ideal for travelers who prefer more space and independence during their Vienna visit.
• Best for panoramic views: Skyflats Vienna - Belle View. These modern, high-rise apartments offer breathtaking views of Vienna's skyline. With sleek interiors, full kitchens, and floor-to-ceiling windows, they're perfect for those who want to enjoy luxurious accommodations with spectacular city vistas.

Browse hundreds of accommodations in Josefstadt at any budget.

Practical tips for choosing the right neighborhood

Start by considering your interests and priorities — whether that be nightlife, cultural and historical sights, or budget. 

Timing your visit

Weather-wise, Vienna is lovely in spring (April-May) and fall (September-October), with mild temperatures and fewer crowds. Summer (June-August) can be warm and busy with tourists, while winter (November-March) brings chilly temperatures but also magical Christmas markets.

Opening hours

Many shops close early (around 6 PM), so plan your shopping accordingly. Stores are likely to be closed on Sundays as well, with the exception of restaurants. 

Safety

Vienna is generally considered one of the safest major cities in Europe, with low crime rates and a high standard of living. While it's always wise to exercise standard precautions such as being aware of your surroundings and safeguarding your belongings in crowded tourist areas, visitors can typically explore the city with confidence both day and night.

How to get around Vienna easily

• U-Bahn (subway): The U-Bahn is Vienna's fastest and most efficient mode of transport, with 5 lines covering most of the city. Trains run frequently, especially during peak hours, and connect major landmarks and neighborhoods.
• Straßenbahn (trams): Trams are an iconic part of Vienna's transport system, offering a more scenic way to travel. They cover areas not served by the U-Bahn and are particularly useful for shorter trips within districts.
• Buses: Buses in Vienna complement the rail network, reaching areas not covered by U-Bahn or trams. They're especially useful in outer districts and for night travel when other services are less frequent.
• S-Bahn (mostly above ground train): The S-Bahn is ideal for traveling to Vienna's suburbs and surrounding areas. It's also useful for getting to and from the airport, with the S7 line providing direct airport connections.

You’ll want to consider purchasing a Vienna City Card for unlimited public transport and discounts on attractions.