Where to Stay in Vienna – The 5 Best Areas (With Hotel Picks)
Vienna, the enchanting capital of my native country, Austria, holds a special place in my heart.
I can’t even count the times I’ve visited and stayed in this city where imperial history meets contemporary culture.
With its stunning architecture, rich artistic heritage, and vibrant neighborhoods, choosing the right area to stay can enhance your experience in this remarkable city – and I’m speaking from experience.
Whether you’re seeking the historic charm of the Innere Stadt, the trendy vibe of Neubau, or the local flair of Leopoldstadt, each district offers its unique allure.
In this post, I’ll guide you through the best areas to stay in Vienna, highlighting their distinct characteristics, attractions, pros and cons, and accommodation options.
Get ready to discover the perfect base for your Vienna adventure!
(This post contains affiliate links, which means I receive a certain percentage of a sale if you purchase after clicking.)
1. Innere Stadt (1st District)
The Innere Stadt is Vienna’s historic core and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, making it an ideal area for first-time visitors.
This vibrant district is home to Austria’s most iconic landmarks such as St. Stephen’s Cathedral, the Hofburg Palace, and the Vienna State Opera.
You can stroll through its picturesque streets such as the famous Graben, lined with baroque architecture and elegant shops.
Staying in the Innere Stadt provides easy access to the city’s cultural highlights, dining options, and vibrant nightlife. The area is very pedestrian-friendly, allowing you to explore charming squares, cafés, and boutiques almost entirely on foot.
The numerous museums, such as the Albertina and the Museum of National History (one of my favorites), make it a perfect area for art and culture lovers.
For luxury travelers, the Innere Stadt boasts exquisite hotels, including the renowned Hotel Sacher, famous for its Sachertorte, and the historic Palais Coburg.
Whether you’re enjoying a concert at the opera or sipping coffee in a traditional Viennese café, the Innere Stadt offers an unparalleled combination of history and elegance.
Pros of Staying in Innere Stadt
- Proximity to the city’s main attractions
- Easily walkable
- Excellent luxury shopping options
- Wide selection of bars & restaurants
Cons of Staying in Innere Stadt
- Very touristy
- High accommodation prices
- Few budget options
🛏️ 5 Great Hotels to Stay in Innere Stadt (1st District)
2. Leopoldstadt (2nd District)
If you want to stay away from the main tourist crowds, yet in a central location, Leopoldstadt is the perfect area for you.
Leopoldstadt is famous for the Wiener Prater, a large public park in Vienna, best known for its amusement park which hosts the iconic Giant Ferris Wheel (Wiener Riesenrad).
The 2nd district has a rich Jewish heritage, once serving as Vienna’s Jewish quarter, with synagogues and the Jewish Museum. Plus, it’s also home to the beautiful Augarten, an elaborate park with a renowned porcelain manufacturer.
Pros of Staying in Leopoldstadt
- More peaceful compared to the 1st district
- Good metro connections
- More affordable accommodation options
Cons of Staying in Leopoldstadt
- Fewer cultural attractions
- Limited nightlife options
- Larger, spread-out area
🛏️ 5 Great Hotels to Stay in Leopoldstadt (2nd District)
3. Wieden (4th District)
Staying in Wieden means being close to Vienna’s city center but in a quieter, more relaxed neighborhood.
Wieden is known for its trendy cafés, boutiques, and restaurants, especially around the Schleifmühlgasse and Margaretenstraße areas.
Other must-sees in this district include Belvedere Palace, one of Vienna’s most famous landmarks, featuring an impressive art collection with works by Gustav Klimt, and Karlsplatz square with the Karlskirche, a breathtaking Baroque church.
Pros of Staying in Wieden
- A vibrant area filled with cafés & restaurants
- Close proximity to the city center
- Lively nightlife scene
Cons of Staying in Wieden
- Fewer major attractions
🛏️ 5 Great Hotels to Stay in Wieden (4th District)
4. Mariahilf (6th District)
If you’re a shopping lover, Mariahilf, Vienna’s 6th district, is the place to be.
Forming the border between the 6th and 7th districts, Mariahilfer Straße is Vienna’s longest shopping street, packed with boutiques, international stores, and local shops offering everything from fashion to home goods.
In high school, Mariahilfer Straße was THE shopping street for me and my friends and we came here at least two weekends a month, spending hours browsing stores and enjoying the lively atmosphere.
Something else you’ll find in the 6th district is the Vienna Naschmarkt – the city’s most famous open-air market. It’s been a bustling hub for food and culture since the 16th century and features a wide variety of stalls offering local and exotic delights.
Moreover, Mariahilf is filled with trendy cafés and restaurants, offering both local Austrian cuisine and international options.
Pros of Staying in Mariahilf
- Good for shopping
- Many restaurants & bars
- Great nightlife options
Cons of Staying in Mariahilf
- Less local charm
- Very touristy
🛏️ 5 Great Hotels to Stay in Mariahilf (6th District)
5. Neubau (7th District)
Last but not least, the 7th district is another excellent choice for staying in Vienna.
Neubau is a trendy, creative hub known for its vibrant arts scene and unique atmosphere. It’s home to the MuseumsQuartier (MQ), one of the largest cultural complexes in Europe, featuring renowned museums like the Leopold Museum and MUMOK (Museum of Modern Art).
Like the 6th district, the streets in Neubau are lined with independent boutiques, artisan shops, and vintage stores, particularly around Neubaugasse and Kirchengasse, making it a great spot for unique shopping experiences.
Staying in Neubau means you’re just a short walk or tram ride from the city center, making it an ideal base for exploring Vienna’s historic sights while enjoying the district’s modern charm.
Pros of Staying in Neubau
- Centrally located and easily accessible
- Close to attractions and museums
- Nice shopping areas
Cons of Staying in Neubau
- Higher accommodation costs
- Can get crowded
🛏️ 5 Great Hotels to Stay in Neubau (7th District)
Check out:
12 Most Beautiful Towns & Villages in Austria (by a Local)
The 16 Coolest Day Trips From Vienna, Austria
16 Best & Most Famous Landmarks in Austria
50 Interesting Facts About Austria You Didn’t Know
A Visit to The Palais Niederösterreich in Vienna
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Do you want to travel like me?
Here are some of my favorite travel tips and resources:
Flights: I prefer using CheapOair to book flights. I often search for “Anywhere” to uncover the best flight deals!
Accommodation: Booking.com is my favorite site to find some great hotel deals.
Travel Insurance: There are many reasons why travel insurance is important and I never travel without one. I use the simple and flexible one from SafetyWing that protects me against unforeseen events.
Tours: I love taking tours to explore destinations like a local. My favorite website to book them in advance is GetYourGuide.
Camera Gear: I use a Nikon D5300 camera with an 18-105 mm and a 10-20 mm wide-angle lens to take my photos.
