Here at The Travel Tortoise we value anything with real character and authenticity – whatever it is, just don’t be boring. So, if you share this mindset, and you’re ready to research the coolest hotels in Vienna, then welcome to our curated list. From art nouveau, art deco, to Falco – anybody who appreciates unique design, Austrian culture and art, and something a little different from the usual hotel chains will surely find something here.
This post is designed to help you find a hotel which matches your tastes and expectations, so whether you value boutique style, independent spirit, luxurious touches, or just something a little bit quirky, you’ll find your weird, wonderful, or downright decadent here. So go grab a sausage and some schnapps, and let’s dive in…
The Coolest Hotels in Vienna
How to choose where to stay?
When choosing where to stay in Vienna, it’s good to be aware that the city offers distinct neighborhoods that cater to different tastes and experiences.
If you want to be right in the middle of the action, the First District is the place to be. Here, you’ll find iconic landmarks like St. Stephen’s Cathedral and the Hofburg Palace, as well as high-end shopping and historic cafés. It’s perfect for first-time visitors who want to dive right in to the heart of Vienna’s culture.
For a more local, artistic vibe, the 6th to 9th Districts are your best bet. Areas like Neubau (7th) and Mariahilf (6th) offer a mix of quirky boutiques, art galleries, and trendy cafés, while Josefstadt (8th) and Alsergrund (9th) have a laid-back, bohemian feel. These neighborhoods are ideal for travelers seeking a more authentic and creative stay.
And if you’re visiting in the summer, I think the 2nd District (Leopoldstadt) is a great choice. Located just on the other side of the Danube Canal, it’s home to green spaces like Prater Park and riverside cafés, perfect for a relaxed vibe. The area combines easy access to the city center and the main Danube River, with a laid-back, outdoorsy atmosphere.
I’ve divided the hotels up into these three categories for ease of navigation, and you’ll also find my Vienna Hotels Map further down the page. Alright, let’s dive in…
Boutique Hotels in Vienna City Center
While Vienna’s wide boulevards and cobblestone streets make it super easy to explore on foot, for those of you that want to stay right in the buzz of the city’s first district, at the center of it all, these independent hotels put you right where the action is. So, if you’re ready to experience Vienna like a local, here are my picks for the coolest boutique hotels in the heart of the city…
Hollmann Beletage Hotel
for breakfast lovers & Wes Anderson movie fans, 1st district
Any hotel claiming to be ‘arguably the most charming 4* boutique hotel in the heart of Vienna’ and one that proclaims ‘the entire Hollmann breakfast is now 100% certified organic (with only very few exceptions)’ clearly has a good angle on parody and that is always appreciated here at TTT. For this is a hotel chock full of life and character, that will appeal to those who appreciate things being done a little differently. The eccentric style and personality of its owner, Robert Hollman, a man clearly in love with Vienna, gives this hotel an authenticity that cannot be imitated.
Stylistically, the Hollman Beletage (cliche alert, you’ve been warned!) blends old-world charm and modern elegance and its rooms are designed to make you feel like a well-to-do local with their grand chandeliers, antique furnishings and herringbone wooden floors. However, this quirky hotel is all about the little details, with unique touches like a small library stocked with books and board games, an in-house cinema serving free popcorn to guests, its wellness area with both a sauna and a steam bath, the hotel bar with self-serve pre-made cocktails and complimentary whiskey for house guests, and the outdoor guest garden (gardens are rare in Vienna, so treasure it). There’s a lot to like about this hotel, a hell of a lot.
But what really sets this hotel apart is its famous breakfast, which rotates every three days so there’s no chance of you being stuck with the typical muesli dispensers, stale pastries and rubbery eggs that you get from most other soul destroying hotels in the matrix. Breakfast here at the Hollman Beletage is really rather special. Aside from being served delicacies like frittata, and alpine cheeses from their other hotel locations in Trieste and the Austrian Alps, the hotel’s ‘breakfast chef’ will also cook up an egg dish of the day for you, unless of course you choose to go a little more off-piste and want something else. And for those of you with lighter appetites in the morning, they also provide a free afternoon ‘Altwiener Leberkase Snack Station’ – which, for you Vienna virgins, is basically organic meatloaf stuffed inside the archetypal Viennese bread roll i.e a Kaisersemmel. This sandwich is a culinary institution here, one that is undergoing somewhat of a renaissance in recent times, so let us reassure you, whenever you are offered a free Lebekase Semmel, take it. All things considered, I reckon if Bill Murray came to Vienna, this would probably be where he’d stay.
Boutique Hotel Am Stephansplatz
for people who like a room with a view cathedral, 1st district
Location, location, location, huh? Well, if you’re looking for a hotel where location and convenience come together like schnitzel and potato salad, then meet Boutique Hotel Am Stephansplatz. Directly across the square from the iconic St. Stephen’s Cathedral, this four star gem offers unbeatable views, modern comfort, and a sense of smug satisfaction knowing you’re staying in one of the most enviable spots in town. Seriously, you’re so close to the cathedral you might as well invite the bishop over for breakfast. Speaking of Frühstück, the breakfast buffet here is…comprehensive. Start your day with warm, flaky pastries, fresh fruit, eggs cooked your way, and locally sourced delicacies that make you question where the phrase ‘breakfast is for wimps’ ever came from. Wash it down with a strong Viennese coffee while gazing out the floor-to-ceiling windows at the cathedral.
When it comes to the rooms, expect a mix of modern chic and cozy comfort. From soundproof windows (you’ll appreciate this when those cathedral bells kick in) to plush beds that feel like sleeping on a cloud, this is a boutique hotel with high standards. And as you waltz your way around Boutique Hotel Am Stephansplatz, amenities abound with a 24-hour ‘little spa’ to burn off all the sausages and kaiserschmarrn, a sauna, free Wi-Fi, and a sleek business lounge for those who can’t (or aren’t allowed) to switch off. The hotel also boasts a lobby bar that’s perfect for unwinding with a cocktail or two after a day of sightseeing. The artistic among you will appreciate the plentiful wooden sculptures that adorn most communal areas, and the on-site Cafe Giacomo Aragall (named after a Spanish tenor who can’t enough of this place), is a great place to people watch the thousands who visit Stephansplatz each day. A solid choice for anyone who prioritizes location above all else.
Boutique Hotel Amauris
5 star luxury, super indulgent, 1st district
If luxury had a postcode in Vienna, it would be The Amauris 101. This boutique hotel, located on the prestigious Ringstrasse which encircles Vienna’s 1st district, feels less like booking a hotel and more like stepping into a period drama – except with Wi-Fi, plush robes, and an espresso machine in your room. The rooms and suites at The Amauris are a masterclass in indulgence. Think sleek design with a splash of old-world charm: sumptuous fabrics, intricate detailing, and beds so comfortable you’ll consider squatting as a full-time career choice. This hotel doesn’t do anything by half, as evidenced by the bathrooms alone, which come in marble with heated floors and rain showers as standard.
In terms of amenities, The Amauris has them in spades. First up is the luxurious indoor pool, which feels more like a private spa retreat than a hotel facility. Pair that with the state-of-the-art fitness center and a wellness area complete with saunas, and the chance to book yourself a massage, and you’ve got everything you need to pamper yourself silly. Foodies, rejoice too, as the hotel’s Michelin-starred restaurant, Glasswing, is a culinary destination in its own right. Here, every dish is a masterpiece, blending seasonal ingredients with innovative technique. And if you need to unwind with a drink, the bar and lounge is a great spot to sip a craft cocktail, a fine Austrian wine, or perhaps just pretend you’re a 19th-century aristocrat surveying the grandeur of your own little slice of Vienna Palais.
The location is within strolling distance of some of Vienna’s greatest hits, including the State Opera, St. Stephen’s Cathedral, and the Kunsthistorisches Museum, to name a few. Whether you’re here for culture, history, or just to strut your stuff on the Ringstrasse, you’re right in the thick of it here. The staff at The Amauris are the cherry on this luxurious cake. They’re attentive without being overbearing, helpful without hovering, and they are genuinely invested in making your stay unforgettable.
The Leo Grand Hotel
new, angular, a healthy dose of quirk, 1st district
If Vienna is a symphony of culture, The Leo Grand Hotel is one of its crescendos – luxurious, dramatic, and with just the right amount of fun. Tucked away in the heart of the city, this boutique hotel invites you to immerse yourself in history without compromising on modern creature comforts. The Leo Grand doesn’t just offer rooms; every detail is meticulously designed, from the plush, oversized beds (perfect for a Netflix binge or recovering from too much Sachertorte or Schnapps) to the opulent bathrooms that practically beg you to take a bubble bath. With a minibar so generously stocked, you’ll think it’s your birthday, and smart room controls that let you adjust lighting and temperature with a single tap, it’s a playground for the tech-savvy and the comfort-craving alike.
Expect rainfall showers, a complimentary minibar loaded with goodies you won’t feel guilty raiding, and USB ports galore – because in Vienna, even your gadgets deserve first-class treatment. Hungry? Good. The Leo Grand’s on-site restaurant (the Cosmo Kitchen) is what happens when Austrian tradition collides with cutting-edge culinary artistry. The cocktails are no slouch either – served with flair at the hotel’s stylish bar, they’ll have you raising a glass to both Vienna and your impeccable taste in accommodation. Oh, and do try their signature drink, Darling; “The Grand Spritz.” It’s bubbly, refreshing, and pairs perfectly with that smug feeling of staying in such a fab hotel.
The Leo Grand knows you didn’t come all the way to Vienna to stay in bed (although no judgment if you do). Here’s what else they bring to the table: courtyard hangouts: their inner courtyard is an oasis of calm, perfect for morning coffee or pretending you’re a 19th-century aristocrat plotting your next social conquest; complimentary bikes; in-room dining: because sometimes pants are optional, and room service doesn’t judge.
The hotel’s central location puts Vienna’s iconic attractions, high-end shopping streets, and cozy coffeehouses within easy reach. You can go from admiring Klimt’s masterpieces to eating a towering slice of Apfelstrudel in minutes. The Leo Grand is a hotel that doesn’t just meet expectations; it waltzes right past them. For travelers who appreciate can afford the finer things in life, The Leo Grand Hotel offers a seamless blend of historic charm and modern luxury, combined with exceptional service and a central location.
The Guesthouse Vienna
private apartment style, right behind the Opera, 1st district
Looking for a hotel in Vienna that’s more “I’d totally live here” than “I guess this is fine”? Meet The Guesthouse Vienna. It’s not your typical luxury hotel, and that’s exactly why it’s worth checking out. Tucked away in the city center, just a few minutes from the Vienna State Opera and the always-bustling Naschmarkt, this boutique hotel is smack in the middle of Vienna’s cultural scene. The design is minimal but totally welcoming, with just enough local art and quirky touches to make you feel like you’ve wandered into the home of an effortlessly stylish friend who has way better taste than you. Think warm wood, soft lighting, and tons of natural light. The kind of place that makes you want to kick off your shoes, plop down on the velvet sofa, and stay for a while.
The rooms are spacious and calm retreats from the city buzz. You’ve got plenty of light streaming through big windows, furniture that looks cool but is super comfy, and little details (like a rain shower) that make a big difference. Plus, there are no sterile hotel vibes here – every corner feels lived-in and has been thoughtfully designed. Bonus points for the Nespresso machine, because who really wants to leave the comfort of your room for a cup of coffee, anyway? The Guesthouse’s café is more like a secret local hangout than a hotel dining room. Locals sip coffee here, and people watch through the windows. With fresh pastries, and a seasonally changing menu, it’s a great spot to start the day, or just hang out.
The Guesthouse Vienna is not about the over-the-top opulence, but rather understated luxury. It’s one of those hotels that is effortlessly cool, without trying too hard. All the comforts you want without the fluff.
Boutique Hotels Just Outside of The City Center
Vienna’s 6th, 7th, 8th and 9th districts are full of independent shops, cafes and restaurants and they are still close to many of the city’s most famous sites, including the Ringstraße, City Hall, Museumsquartier, Naschmarkt, and Vienna’s main shopping street, Mariahilferstraße. All of the hotels I’ve selected on this list are within a 20 minute walk from the first district anyway, and all have great public transport links too, so unless you have severely impaired mobility, all are worth considering.
Hotel Josefine Vienna
1920’s art deco, somewhat surreal, 6th district
The third boutique hotel in Vienna on our list is called Hotel Josefine Vienna and is located in Vienna’s 6th district, close to all the action. The hotel has typically high ceiling(ed) rooms with herringbone wooden floors, just as you’d expect from a classic Viennese ‘Altbau’ (old i.e pre 1953 building). In terms of unique features, there’s an honesty bar where you can help yourself to an aperitif, before stepping into its Phonotheque, located next door, where a selection of 3000 classic vinyl records await your selection. The great Gatsby vibes continue as you enter into the basement of the hotel to its famous Barfly’s Club, one of Vienna’s most beloved hangouts. Green marble all over the walls and the sweet smell of American decadence and sophistication abounds here. Expect to lounge in a plush crimson or emerald green velvet upholstered chair, as you sip from a cocktail, long drink, or tumbler. With a little Sinatra playing in the background, you may even overhear a local poet, artist or actor reciting their work. This American bar is a local institution and was one of the early pioneers of this genre in Vienna. The Josefine is a place where the surreal blends with the real. The homemade á là carte breakfast is served daily from 07:00 – 11:00 and on Friday – Sunday from 07:00 – 14:00. After all, it wouldn’t be decadent if there wasn’t a late breakfast.
Hotel Josefine is pretty much like stepping into a time Machine that transports you right back to the roaring 20s. While perhaps lacking in quite as much hanging wall art as some of the other options on this list, we think that her art-deco inspired fittings and a liberal dose of surrealism, easily qualifies Josie into the top boutique hotels in Vienna.
Hotel Altstadt
the classy choice, very large art collection, 7th district.
They (Hotel Altstadt, of course) say that Hotel Altstadt is where ‘Warhol meets Prachensky’. This, however, may not be mere hyperbole, as this hotel was in fact originally opened as an art galley, just with accompanying rooms. Most of its vast collection of contemporary art is either on loan from museums or comes from privately owned collections. The hotel is so confident in its overall aesthetic that it offers guided tours for non-residents who come to see its diverse interpretation of Viennese style. In terms of room design, the hotel has worked with some of Vienna’s more renowned architects, designers and artists, as well as those from its up and coming generation. Each designer offers their own interpretation of Viennese hospitality or ‘gemutlichkeit’ in the hotel’s 62 individual rooms and suites. From a room that’s decked out in vibrant pink to one in inspired by Mozart’s music, each room is as individual as the guests it houses.
Breakfast at Hotel Altstadt is gratefully available until 11:00 on weekdays and 11:30 on weekends, allowing for a proper lie in. Afternoon tea is also a big deal here, with a range of teas, homemade cakes, as well as a sweet (candy) bar available for guests between 4-6pm every day in one of their salons. Between May-September the hotel’s rooftop terrace can also be enjoyed, while the hotel’s ‘Red Salon’ is home to its in-house bar. Hotel Altstadt is located in the trendy 7th district, in an area called Spittelberg (think narrow cobble-stoned streets, and cute low storey (1 or 2) houses). Spittelberg, by the way, is also home to one of Vienna’s more unique Christmas markets, popular with locals.
Das Tyrol Hotel Vienna
Viennese fin de siecle charm, if you like gold things, has a pillow menu, 6th district
If you’re looking for a boutique hotel in Vienna with a strong local influence, then Hotel Das Tyrol nails it. This place has an undeniably Viennese influenced design that will certainly make you feel all art nouveau. The rooms are spacious and for the most part tastefully decorated, with designer furnishings featuring plenty of gold leaf. There is luxurious bedding, including the aforementioned pillow menu – “ah yes, I’ll have the 95% goose down with a red wine jus, please”). The hotel’s wellness area and private spa is arguably its main highlight, with a sauna, steam bath, and fitness room, perfect for unwinding after a long day of exploring the city. The hotel owners believe that art ‘doesn’t belong in museums’ and is thus better displayed in their hotel. As such, you’ll find loads of contemporary artwork scattered liberally throughout the Small Luxury Hotel Das Tyrol, giving a further touch of flair and design to pair with its lavishly ornate furnishings. For some this may be a little too much, but for others Das Tyrol is a true feast for the senses, one which proudly pays homage to the mood of the Viennese secessionists of the early 20th century. Throw in a concierge service, a very cool hotel bar, and a great location close to the Naschmarkt between Vienna’s hip 6th and 4th districts, and the Small Luxury Hotel Das Tyrol ticks a lot of boxes for a lot of people.
Artist Boutique Hotel
quirky, celebrates Austrian cultural icons, 8th district
If you’re an art and culture lover, and you fall on the quirky side of normal (yuk…normal), then there’s a pretty good chance that you’re going to like the Artist Boutique Hotel. They say they have created a ‘world full of art, fantasy and daydreams’. Quite the claim for an establishment whose previous incarnation was as the somewhat industrially named ‘Hotel Alpha’, and whose primary objective is merely to separate its guests from consciousness for 8 hours each night. Yet, for the creative souls among you, Artist Boutique Hotel will likely be appreciated for its rather unique approach to hospitality. Located in Vienna’s 8th district, as you walk into the lobby, you’re immediately greeted by portraits depicting a who’s who of Austrian cultural big hitters. Each one of the hotel rooms is dedicated to these personalities, from Falco to Freud and everyone in between, and of course, there’s room for you in amongst all this. Breakfast is served as standard until 13:00, which will make Artist Boutique Hotel the favourite of all the late dozers. They also offer free afternoon pastries and coffee for guests. From 4pm the hotel’s cozy Artist Bar invites you to sit by the fire in an oversized velvety couch, listen to (or play) the piano, and indulge in conversation with a fellow traveler, a local artist or even the good old bartender. Cocktails are made on site and provide the ideal accompaniment with which to soak up and appreciate Austria’s cultural legacy.
The Harmonie Vienna
understated, great if you love dance, 9th district
In a city where elegance is the norm, The Harmonie Vienna stands out by adding a sprinkle of creativity and a whole lot of cozy charm. This boutique gem in Vienna’s serene Servitenviertel neighborhood (9th district) is the perfect escape for those who appreciate art, and understated style. Think plush bedding, calming color palettes, and artistic touches inspired by the hotel’s love affair with dance. Yes, dance. Every room features unique artwork celebrating movement and expression. I wonder if they have a line dancing room? Anyway, room highlights include hypoallergenic EVERYTHING – because even your sinuses deserve a holiday; Nespresso machines for the perfect caffeine kick without leaving your slippers; smart TVs and high-speed Wi-Fi.
The Harmonie Vienna doesn’t do cookie-cutter hospitality. From their honesty bar stocked with fine wines to their serene library lounge (complete with a crackling fireplace), every detail is crafted to make you feel at home – but better. And if you’re the kind of traveler who thrives on fitness, the small yet perfectly equipped gym is waiting for your morning workout. And forget your average hotel buffet – the Harmonie’s organic breakfast features locally sourced cheeses, fresh pastries, and eggs cooked exactly how you like them. The pièce de résistance? A juice bar and raw honeycombs that will have you feeling Bee-rilliant!
Set in the picturesque 9th district, The Harmonie is your gateway to both tranquility and adventure. Stroll through the charming Servitenviertel with its quaint cafes and boutique shops or take a 5 minute tram ride to Vienna’s bustling city center. It’s the best of both worlds: calm when you need it, action when you crave it. If you’re looking for a hotel that feels more like an artistic retreat, The Harmonie Vienna delivers in spades. With its warm service, stylish design, and emphasis on sustainability, it’s not just a place to stay, it’s a place to feel inspired.
Hotel Beethoven
themed by coffee, beethoven, secession, fin de siècle, 6th district
Hotel Beethoven Vienna isn’t just a place to rest your head – it’s an experience steeped in culture, creativity, and authenticity. What sets this boutique gem apart is how it weaves the story of Vienna into every aspect of your stay, from its design to its events, creating a connection to the city that feels deeply personal. Each floor of the hotel is a tribute to a distinct element of Viennese culture, from the world of classical music to the city’s café traditions. This thematic approach creates an immersive experience, giving guests more than just a room, but a taste of Vienna’s soul. The hotel’s Beethoven-inspired details, like framed scores and subtle musical motifs, pay homage to the composer in a way that feels elegant rather than overdone.
An especially unique highlight of Hotel Beethoven are its weekend classical concerts held in the cozy, chandelier-lit lounge. These intimate performances bring Vienna’s legendary musical heritage to life in the most authentic way possible. Imagine sipping a glass of Austrian wine while talented musicians play just a few feet away – this isn’t just a hotel perk, it’s an unforgettable highlight of your trip. Indeed, the Beethoven Lounge is not your average hotel common space. It’s a warm, inviting retreat where you can relax with a book, sip on complimentary tea or coffee, and indulge in homemade cake. This level of hospitality feels personal and thoughtful, setting the hotel apart from the more impersonal luxury options out there.
The building itself dates back to 1902 and exudes timeless charm, but inside, you’ll find an atmosphere that’s refreshingly modern. The interior design balances the historic with contemporary comforts, offering an aesthetic that appeals to both history lovers and design enthusiasts. While many hotels boast great locations, Hotel Beethoven’s spot near the Naschmarkt and Vienna’s cultural epicenter is very convenient to hit most of the city’s tourist hot spots within walking distance. Guests can wander from bustling market stalls to the Vienna State Opera in a few minutes, for example.
Hotel Motto
quirky as hell, recently restored, 6th district
If you’re the kind of traveler who likes a bit of attitude with your accommodation, Hotel Motto is here to deliver exactly that. This isn’t just a place to crash after a long day of sightseeing. Oh no. It’s a hotel with personality, and trust us, it’s not shy about showing it. The hotel is located on Vienna’s most famous shopping street, Mariahilferstrasse, right on the border between Mariahilf and Neubau – two of Vienna’s hippest districts, with museums, independent galleries, quirky shops, and cool cafes everywhere. It’s the ideal place to stay if you like exploring places that have a little more edge than your standard tourist spots. Plus, you’re only a short stroll away from all the usual sites ion the 1st district.
Hotel Motto is all about bold design. The lobby hits you with vibrant hues, funky furniture, and art that feels like a collision of retro and modern. It’s quirky in the best way—like someone took a deep breath, said “screw convention,” and created a space where every corner is its own person. It’s playful, but in a grown-up way, with pops of neon, geometric patterns, and cool lighting. The rooms follow the same playful vibe, but with a little more serenity for sleeping. They’re stylish but never overwhelming. The large windows let in plenty of light, and the beds have top-tier linens, soft mattresses, and plenty of pillows to make it feel like home. And if you’re a fan of creative cocktails, the hotel’s bar is a must-visit. The talented bartenders here are more than up for the challenge. Plus, the cozy atmosphere makes it an ideal spot to kick back after a day of exploring.
If you value character, bold colour, and something unique, Hotel Motto is the place to be. It’s stylish, fun, and very much not your typical hotel. Perfect for anyone who wants to experience the less staid side of Vienna.
Where to Stay in Summer in Vienna
The first district can get REALLY hot in summertime. And while Vienna is undeniably beautiful, back in the day when the town planners were at work, they didn’t leave many trees nor green spaces around to mitigate all the heat reflecting back off the concrete buildings. So with narrow streets, high buildings, and very few trees around, as well as regular temperatures of around 35 degrees centigrade in July and August, I would urge you to consider staying in one of Vienna’s greener neighbourhoods, like the 2nd…
Henriette Hotel
very sustainable, on a rare tree-lined street, 2nd district
Located in the up-and-coming already discovered Leopoldstadt district, Henriette Hotel offers a cozy, stylish stay with more of a local feel than most others on this list. It’s just a short walk from the iconic Prater Park and the Danube Canal, giving you a good balance of peaceful surroundings and easy access to Vienna’s top summer-time attractions. The street it’s located on is called Praterstrasse, and I think it is the closest thing Vienna has to La Rambla in Barcelona, with trees lining both sides of the street, bicycle lanes and loads of cool cafes and restaurants. The 2nd district in general is also full of cafés, bars, and traditional Austrian eateries, so the Henriette is ideally located to explore both the quieter, artsy side of Vienna and the central tourist spots. Nestroyplatz U-bahn station is literally right outside the hotel, and from there you’re only two stops from Stephansplatz in the center of Vienna.
The hotel’s design blends mid-century modern vibes with playful touches. Rooms are simple but stylish, with cozy beds, quirky furnishings, and bright colours. It’s warm and welcoming. Henriette Hotel takes sustainability seriously, with eco-friendly initiatives like energy-saving systems, water conservation practices, and a strong focus on local, organic produce for their breakfast offerings. What I love most though is their refusal to use any synthetic fibres in their bedding and their commitment to chemical free cleaning practices. These guys are legit when it comes to sustainability. If you are at all eco-conscious when you travel, then just stay here.
Superbude
cheapest option on this list, makes you feel old, 2nd district
The final option on our list of Boutique Hotels in Vienna may be stretching the remit somewhat, but we had to include it. Superbude is a relatively new addition to the Viennese hotel scene, having opened its doors in 2021 in the height of the pandemic. Part hotel, part hostel, the rooms here are fresh and different, and carry with them several unique design concepts that we like a lot! Many of its rooms and suites offer options for groups of friends or families traveling together, with either bunk beds or beds lined up in a row, perfect for just crashing on after a heavy night out. Superbude is also the cheapest hotel on this list by some distance, which inherently makes it more accessible to younger travelers than most other boutique hotels in Vienna. Superbude have taken great care to cultivate a strong connection to Viennese culture having designed many of their 178 rooms in collaboration with local luminaries, including the FM4 radio station, and the Falter news magazine with its reading rooms. Some of their other themed rooms include a bird’s nest, an ‘Austropop’ studio with a collection of Austrian vinyl (think “Amadeus, Amedeus, A-ma-deus…), a Game City Studio which includes a Nintendo switch + games, and a Cinema studio complete with a projector and a collection of classic Austrian movies (we assume they must be referring to the Schwarzenegger back catalogue here). For aspiring artists, they even offer an ‘Artist in Residence’ program, as they have decked out one of their larger rooms to also serve as a fully functioning artist’s workshop. Guests can stay for up to 6 weeks and at the end the management are keen to exhibit the produced work within the hotel itself.
On the hotel rooftop you’ll find Neni am Prater, a Viennese institution serving middle eastern food from Israel. This is where the breakfast buffet is to be attacked, if, of course, you decide to go for that option when booking. There’s also a bar up here and both have really cool views over the Prater theme park and across wider Vienna – some of the best views to be found of the city skyline in fact. On the ground floor there’s also Cafe Brenner, which serves as the hotel’s hub and meeting point.
Boutique Hotels in Vienna Map
Unique and Quirky Hotels in Vienna: FAQ
Is Vienna walkable?
You may have noticed that not all of the hotels I’ve listed are located in the city center. However, this needn’t worry anyone, as all are still centrally located thanks to how compact the city is. You can walk to all of the main tourist sites comfortably from all of these hotels (apart from Schönbrunn Palace which is a little further out of town), and by not staying in one of the 1st district hotels, you’ll usually find better value and a more authentic Vienna – not just hotels, but nearby restaurants and shops too.
Which district should I stay in while I'm in Vienna?
Here’s a brief rundown of Vienna’s inner districts (i.e 1-9): 1st: old money, expensive, touristy, particularly rude waiters, actually pretty quiet at night away from the tourist spots; 2nd: the other side of the canal, boho, good for Prater and the Danubes – great district to choose in summer; 3rd: embassy district, quite residential, good for the Belvedere and Wien Mitte train station; 4th: good for Karlsplatz and the Hauptbahnhof, ultra hip, good Asian food; 5th: a bit out of the way, better value but not much to see here; 6th: ultra hip yet also popular with families, good for Haus des Meeres aquarium and shopping on Mariahilferstrasse, LGBTQ+ friendly; 7th: ultra hip with loads of bars and independent shops, good for Museumsquartier and the Spittelberg Christmas market; 8th: old money, small and compact, postcard urban Vienna; 9th: university and medical district, young, vibrant, closer to the Viennese vineyards up in the 19th.
The Coolest Hotels in Vienna: Outro
So, there you have it, my run down of the coolest hotels in Vienna. There’s certainly no shortage of independent and unique establishments to lay one’s head down in, so I hope that at least one of these options has peaked your interest. If you liked this, then you’ll be glad to hear that my line in silly Vienna-related posts continues with a guide to which of Vienna’s art museums and galleries one should visit, if one was forced. Personally, I’d prioritize anything that exhibited all the terrible knock offs and copies from around the world, much like this revisionist Mona Lisa. Let’s call her ‘Mona Lara’ – I’d pay for that.
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