Still wondering what to do in Vienna? Opodo has the top must-see plans so you won't miss a thing. Find everything you need to know before picking your stay in Vienna and book your hotel today!
Vienna, the elegant capital of Austria, is a city synonymous with imperial grandeur, classical music, and a refined café culture. The historic centre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, defined by grand buildings from the Habsburg era. You can stroll along the famous Ringstrasse boulevard, lined with architectural masterpieces like the Vienna State Opera House, the Parliament, and the Museums of Art History.
The city's imperial past is best explored at the magnificent Schönbrunn Palace, with its vast gardens and iconic Gloriette, and the central Hofburg Palace complex. The iconic spire of St. Stephen's Cathedral dominates the skyline, standing proudly in the heart of the pedestrianised old town. Whether attending a performance at the Musikverein or savouring a slice of Sacher Torte, Vienna is a timeless European jewel.
The key to booking your Vienna hotel is to secure a location that offers excellent access to the main historical and cultural loop of the Ringstrasse and the inner city centre.
The Innere Stadt (First District) is the undisputed best location for first-time visitors. This entire area is highly walkable and contains the majority of the major sights, including St. Stephen's Cathedral, the Hofburg Palace, and the elegant shopping streets of Graben. Staying here puts you right in the heart of the city’s imperial atmosphere.
For a quieter stay with a cultural focus, consider the area near the MuseumsQuartier and the Belvedere Palace (in the third or fourth district). This positions you perfectly for art museums and the magnificent Baroque gardens, while still being only a short walk or tram ride from the main Ringstrasse.
Vienna International Airport (VIE) is efficiently connected to the city centre via the City Airport Train (CAT) and express rail services. The city's public transport system, including the U-Bahn (metro), trams, and buses, is renowned for its speed and efficiency. A hotel near a major U-Bahn station on the Ringstrasse makes it simple to access all corners of the city, including Schönbrunn Palace and the Prater amusement park.
Hotel prices in Vienna are highest during the peak summer tourist season, from June to August, and surge dramatically in December due to the immensely popular Christmas Markets. Prices are also heavily affected by major conventions and large classical music events.
The best value is found during the quiet months of January and February, although Vienna remains charming even in the cold. The shoulder seasons of March to May and September to November offer a better balance of comfortable sightseeing weather and manageable prices. A unique tip for Vienna is to look for accommodation just outside the Ringstrasse, particularly in the third, fourth, or seventh districts. These areas are incredibly well-connected by the tram system and often offer significantly better rates than the properties located directly in the premium first district.