Where to Stay in Vienna in 2024: 6 Top Areas & Hotels

Heading to Austria’s capital city? Then, let’s start this guide on where to stay in Vienna! 

Vienna is definitely one of my favorite cities and I was happy to do a thorough research for you to showcase 6 best areas perfect for tourists to stay in. 

Long story short, Innere Stadt is the best area to stay in Vienna if you are traveling for the first time! 

I also compared virtually all accommodation options in the city and handpicked the best of the best for you for each price group – from budget to luxury. 

So you can go ahead and book your ideal place in literally a couple of clicks now, let’s go!

If you’re in a hurry…

Check out this short list of hotels in Innere Stadt (downtown):

• Top luxury hotel: Hotel Sacher Wien
• Top mid-range hotel: Hotel Am Parkring
• Top budget hotel: K+K Palais Hotel 

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Watch my video, it will give you a visual explanation of all the areas:

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Here is a map of Vienna and the areas I’ll be talking about in this article:

Vienna is a very organized city. It is divided into 23 districts (called “bezirke”), starting from the city center as the 1st district and going clockwise.

That’s a big number, but fear not, I’ve combined my knowledge from when I went to Vienna and all my research and came up with the top 6 areas: 

• Where to stay in Vienna for first-timers: Innere Stadt
• Best place for families: Leopoldstadt
• Top area for budget travelers: Landstrasse
• Where to stay for nightlife: Wieden
• Best placet to feel like a local: Mariahilf
• Best Vienna neighborhood for museums: Neubau

1. Innere Stadt (1st district) – for first-timers

You can’t go wrong with this area! 

Innere Stadt (literally translated from German as “inner-city”), or 1st District, is filled with incredible attractions like St. Stephen’s Cathedral, Albertina, Haus der Musik, and Hofburg (the old Habsburg residence, where you’ll see the Sisi Museum).

This is where the famous Christmas Market takes place, right in the Rathausplatz.

If you love a good historical drama about Sisi, watch The Empress on Netflix! It’s such an incredible show and one of my favorite TV series! 

Innere Stadt is so beautiful that the entire area is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site! You could spend hours exploring the narrow cobbled streets of the Old Town and admiring the gorgeous architecture! 

I remember when I visited Vienna, I was completely struck by how fast the atmosphere and historical buildings transport you to another era!

What also makes this area a great choice to stay in for the first time is the proximity to the Stephansplatz station from where you can easily access various parts of the city via the underground.

Luxury (€230 and up)

• The Ritz-Carlton, Vienna – a stunning 5-star hotel housed in 4 historic palaces that offers an indoor pool with underwater music, a fitness center, and a sauna! After a day of exploring the best district in town, grab a drink at their fabulous rooftop bar!
• Hotel Sacher Wien – feel like a duke or duchess in this boutique hotel housed in a historic building that has elegant furnishings, a famous collection of paintings, and a spa center!
• Palais Coburg Hotel Residenz – this hotel screams royalty! I mean, look at that majestic pool and that rooftop spa center! Wow! The hotel also has a restaurant that serves Austrian and international gourmet cuisine!

Mid-range (from €120 to €230)

• Appartement-Hotel an der Riemergasse – this beautiful apart-hotel is located near St. Stephen’s Cathedral and the English-style Stadtpark. It has rooms with a small kitchenette and a courtyard view.
• Hotel Am Parkring – if you’re wondering where to stay in Vienna for excellent value, this is the hotel. With stunning decor all over, a gourmet restaurant with views of Vienna, and other extras like a tablet in the room, you’re in for a treat!

Budget (up to €120)

• K+K Palais Hotel – set in a historic building that used to be Emperor Francis Joseph’s city residence, this chic yet affordable hotel offers comfy rooms and breakfast.
• Space Home Apartment – ever wanted to stay in a capsule hotel? Now it’s your chance! This accommodation offers some fab rooms with a wardrobe, a TV and a shared bathroom.

2. Leopoldstadt (2nd district) – best for families

Leopoldstadt is an island near Vienna’s city center, across the Danube Canal, and is connected on the east to downtown Vienna.

While this area will suit almost everyone, I can specifically recommend it for families as it has so many fun attractions like the Prater Theme Park with its beautiful Ferris Wheel, and Madame Tussaud’s Museum.

Leopoldstadt is by far the greenest area in town, so definitely head there if you’re in the mood for a good old walk out in nature! And don’t miss out on Augarten, a beautiful park where you can spend a fun day with the kids. 

It’s also home to the vibrant Karmelitermarkt, a market with fresh food and local goods, and it has a rich Jewish history, with historic sites like the Augarten and its Baroque park. 

For anyone looking to enrich their list of attractions, definitely check our post with the best things to do in Vienna.

Luxury (€200 and up)

• SO/ Vienna – this is one of the best luxury hotels in Vienna for families! It offers panoramic views, a gourmet restaurant, spacious rooms with a TV and even a free spa area. Art nouveau decor, anyone? Yes, sir!
• Superbude Wien Prater – your kids will love the design of this hotel, which has family rooms with bunk beds and a balcony! You’ll also find an on-site restaurant and

Mid-range (from €100 to €200)

• Hotel Stefanie – this is the oldest hotel in Vienna, which has renovated voguish rooms for families and a courtyard garden. Enjoy a delicious breakfast buffet and room service at the best family-run hotel you could find!
• Austria Classic Hotel Wien – all the rooms here are comfy and spacious, and each is uniquely decorated. The hotel is set near Prater Amusement Park and offers a sauna, a gym, and a rich breakfast.

Budget (up to €100)

• Bassena Wien Messe Prater – wondering where you can stay on a budget in Leopoldstadt? This awesome place is not far from the Danube Canal and has family rooms and 2 on-site restaurants.
• Motel One Wien-Prater – this hotel offers one of the best value for money in the whole of Vienna. It is everything you’ll ever need, from free Wi-Fi to free breakfast. The location is also pretty good, near the canal and not far from District 1!

3. Landstrasse (3rd district) – where to stay on a budget

Even though it’s not the city center, Landstrasse is still an excellent area and the best place to stay in a central area but at cheaper hotels (as cheap as it can get in Vienna)! 

Landstrasse is nestled between Leopoldstadt and the Innere Stadt, offering easy access to both areas and their attractions! But if you are looking for easy access to the underground, I recommend that you stay somewhere along the main street, Landstrasser Hauptstrasse.

While in Landstrasse, you can visit the lovely Schloss Belvedere (also known as Belvedere Palace and Gardens) and the Hundertwasserhaus.

This neighborhood is also home to the Austrian Gallery and the Kunst Haus Wien Art Museum.

I always like to start any day filled with museum visits with a cup of the best coffee in town. Since you’ll be doing a lot of that in this area, head over to Coffee & Friends for a quick espresso and a piece of cake.

Luxury (€220 and up)

• Hotel Am Konzerthaus Vienna – MGallery – this unique 5-star hotel offers its guests a gym, concierge and porter services, and a Michelin-rated restaurant. All the rooms are beautifully decorated and have modern details.
• HiLight Suites Hotel – feel at home in this hotel’s cozy rooms with a central location! The suites have wooden floors, modern designs, flat-screen TV, and extra-long beds. You’ll also find a sauna where you can relax after a day out!

Mid-range (from €150 to €220)

• Hotel Spiess & Spiess – the best feature of this eco-labeled hotel is their rooms, which are air-conditioned and with underfloor heating but still elegant and allergy-free. This accommodation has easy access to plenty of public transport options!
• Eurostars Embassy – this lovely hotel has a 24-hour front desk, modern rooms with large windows and a balcony overlooking the city, yummy breakfast, and free Wi-Fi.

Budget (up to €150)

• Rioca Vienna Posto 2 – this fabulous hotel has some unbeatable rates while offering everything you need, like a bar, a shared lounge, rooms with a kitchenette and artwork, and even a seating area.
• Best Western Plus Amedia Wien – every room at this hotel has adjustable air-conditioning, soundproofing, and a flat-screen TV. After a day out and about, you can relax in the sauna and take a steam bath! Ah, the good life!

4. Wieden (4th district) – best place in Vienna for nightlife

Are you a night owl looking to dance the night away? Then Wieden, which is rich in pubs, bars, and clubs, has to be the right place for you!

Located in the southern part of the city, Weiden is an exciting neighborhood where you’ll find many fashion boutiques, charming bookshops, and even vintage furniture! 

Because of the big student community near the area, there are many pubs and restaurants where you can enjoy a laid-back atmosphere in the city!

Another perk of staying in this area is that you’ll be super close to Innere Stadt and all the attractions there. If you choose to stay near Karlsplatz you’ll be able to effortlessly reach any part of the city via the subway.

Although the clubs and boutique shops will keep you busy, don’t forget to check out some of the attractions here, like the Karls Church (St. Charles Church) and Naschmarkt, a massive and cool flea market!

Luxury (€200 and up)

• Hotel Kaiserhof Wien – relax at the spa center of this hotel after a day of exploring the attractions in town! You can start your mornings here with a delicious Viennese breakfast and then head out!
• Moons Vienna – such a cool hotel! I love its design, the rooms that boast breathtaking city views, and the rooftop terrace with a bar where you can catch a scenic sunset!

Mid-range (from €130 to €200)

• Hotel Erzherzog Rainer – if you’re looking for a reasonably-priced hotel with premium features, this is the one. The individually designed rooms of the hotel have air conditioning, a TV, and a minibar.
• Saint SHERMIN Bed Breakfast & Champagne – this family-run hotel comes with spacious rooms and elegant decor. It’s within walking distance from the subway station, the State Opera, and the downtown area.

Budget (up to €130)

• Wombat’s The City Hostel Vienna Naschmarkt – one of the most fun budget accommodations around. There’s a shared lounge where you can meet other travelers. Inside the historic facade, you can find a modern-styled hostel, and it also has a nightclub, mostly limited to guests.
• Austria Trend Hotel beim Theresianum – an affordable hotel that comes with everything you need, from rooms with underfloor heating to a garden terrace and breakfast.

5. Mariahilf (6th district) – for the local vibe

Wondering where to stay in Vienna so you can live like a local? Marihilf is your answer!

Mariahilf is great for those who don’t want to stay near all that touristy haze and would prefer a quieter spot! 

However, it’ll take you no time to reach all the main attractions as Mariahilf is located near Wieden and the city center, allowing you to roam around very easily. It is also well connected to the rest of the city via public transportation.

You can find many cute restaurants, thrift stores, and nice cafés here that won’t be overcrowded.

Some of the highlights of this district include Mariahilfer Strasse Street, a shopping heaven where you will find anything your heart desires! Aqua Terra Zoo is also in the area!

Luxury (€250 and up)

• Boutiquehotel Das Tyrol – the interior design of this hotel was made by famous local designers like Wittman and Thonet, and the rooms also include a Nespresso coffee maker. Start your day with a quick sesh at the spa before heading out!
• Hotel Beethoven Wien – housed in a 1900 building that has a beautiful neo-Renaissance style, this hotel comes with elegantly furnished rooms, a terrace, and a great location! 

Mid-range (from €120 to €250)

• Austria Trend Hotel Anatol Wien – set on a quiet street but still very close to the main shopping area, this hotel offers a mix of modern and classic designs and rooms, which are super comfortable and spacious and include air-conditioning.
• Hotel Josefine – loving the Art Deco rooms of this hotel, which offers an airport shuttle! The daring colors and stylish furnishings will instantly drop you in a period drama series!

Budget (up to €120)

• Pension Mozart – are you looking for cheap hotels in Vienna? Then check out this cozy, family-owned boutique hotel that offers modern, fully-equipped rooms. You’ll find a kitchenette and a flat-screen TV. The location is excellent, near the heart of the city.
• Home Suites Home – such a great place to stay that is well-equipped and has a kitchen, a TV, a seating area, and so much space!

6. Neubau (7th district) – The Museum District of Vienna

Are you absolutely obsessed with museums? Then Neubau is the place for you!

Home to the Museums Quarter and many modern cafés, bars, restaurants, and yummy bakeries, this area has a fresh and welcoming vibe. 

Dare I say even a bit less touristy than the first 5 areas I just recommended! 

While here, you must check out all the museums! MUMOK is perfect for those who love modern and contemporary art, and Leopold Museum has artworks from Gustav Klimt, Oskar Kokoschka, and Richard Gerstl. 

Zoom Kindermuseum is pretty fun for families with kids! 

After visiting the museums, you can spend your days here exploring the small organic markets, drinking lots of coffee, and eating Viennese sweets (fondant fancies are a must)!

If you feel like this is the right area to stay for you, here is my selection of hotels in Neubau:

Luxury (€150 and up)

• Hotel Schani Salon – this hotel has a modern and young vibe! Their rooms are simple yet super chic, and they also offer a delicious breakfast and a happy hour!
• 25hours Hotel beim MuseumsQuartier – enjoy the panoramic views from the rooftop bar of this hotel that has rooms with a unique design: vintage and modern furniture mixed with a circus theme! Love it!

Mid-range (from €100 to €150)

• NH Collection Wien Zentrum – decorated with soft colors, all the rooms at this hotel come with a rain shower in the bathroom and free WiFi. You’ll also find a spa center where you can unwind in the sauna!
• Ruby Marie Hotel Vienna – wake up to a stunning view of the city while staying in this fab hotel, which has rooms with large windows, an outdoor terrace, and a bar.

Budget (up to €100)

• Flemings Conference Hotel Wien – all the rooms here are simply yet nicely decorated and offer stunning views over the city. The breakfast buffet is also incredible, and the location allows easy roaming around the museum district!
• Pension Pharmador – this cute and charming 3-star bed and breakfast is another great budget-friendly accommodation. The hotel offers free Wi-Fi, free private parking, and a great location near public transport!

👑 Luxury price:	€230
💵 Mid-range:	€130
🛏️ Budget:	€80
📍 Best neighborhood:	Innere Stadt – District 1
🛎️ Best luxury hotel:	Hotel Sacher Wien
💵 Mid-range hotel:	Hotel Am Parkring
👛 Best budget hotel:	K+K Palais Hotel

BONUS 1: best apartments in Vienna

Planning to spend more than a few days in Vienna and not spend a fortune on accommodation? Or maybe you’re bringing more friends with you? Well, then, this bonus is for you!

I’ve gathered the best apartments in Vienna that can fit more than 2 people and have splendid reviews! I also ordered them from most to least expensive, so you can quickly pick your favorite!

Luxury (€250 and up)

• easy flat Sankt Elisabeth – you’re going to love these apartments in Wieden that can fit up to 4 people! Not only do they have a fabulous design, but they come with a kitchenette and a TV!
• KH Opera Apartments – how cool are these super tall rooms for up to 5 people that come with a comfy bed, a sofa, and so much space! The apartment is set in Innere Stadt near all the main attractions!

Mid-range (from €150 to €250)

• Blackhome Wien – located in Landstrasse, this apartment has modern furnishings, rooms with balconies, and it also offers breakfast! It fits up to 5 people.
• Christian Apartments – a great place to stay in Wieden with everything you need for your holiday, including apartments with a lot of space for 4 people, a kitchen, and a living room area!

Budget (up to €150)

• Centre Apartments – looking for a fab place to stay in Vienna for a week? Then check out this place a 30-minute walk away from the city center. It has great apartments for up to 4 people with a kitchen and comfy beds!
• Bright&Cosy apartment by Belvedere – I bet you’ll fall in love with this apartment just like I did! It’s perfect for a couple, it’s bright and tastefully furnished.

BONUS 2: best hotels near Vienna airport

Whether you have a transfer or a super early flight, if you need a place to crash near the Vienna Airport, then you’re surely on the right page!

I’ve looked on the web and found the best hotels right near Vienna International Airport, which is around 30 min away by car from Innere Stadt. 

• Luxury (€250 and up)
  Moxy Vienna Airport – a short walk from the airport, this hotel has such cool decor! Its rooms come with comfy beds and they also offer breakfast and a fitness center.
• Mid-range (from €150 to €250)
  Das Reinisch Business Hotel – this hotel is located only a couple of miles from the airport and even offers a shuttle service if you need it. Besides the lovely staff, you will also find a fitness center, a sauna, and a breakfast buffet before taking your flight. 
• Budget (up to €150)
  NH Vienna Airport Conference Center – the airport is just a 5-minute walk away from the airport, literally right across from the arrivals hall! Among the facilities, they have a spa area with a sauna, a steam bath, and soundproof rooms!

FAQs about where to stay in Vienna

Conclusion

I absolutely loved my time in Vienna, especially because I came in December when the Christmas Markets were on, and I’m sure you’ll feel the same (no matter when you’re coming).

Just to recap, this post on where to stay in Vienna has the best areas with the top hotels in each, plus 2 bonuses with some amazing apartments in the city and hotels near the airport! 

Vienna is beautiful yet very crowded all year round, so I recommend you book your hotel as soon as possible to secure your room.

I know I gave many hotel options but if you need some help choosing, here are my top 2 favorites:

• Hotel Sacher Wien – opened in 1876, this gorgeous hotel is so elegant, and it boasts antique furnishings and a spa.
• Appartement-Hotel an der Riemergasse – stylish apartments in an Art-Nouveau hotel that offers breakfast.

As always, if you have any questions or recommendations, please leave them below in the comments.

I hope you will enjoy your stay in Vienna!

Victoria

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