Where to Stay in Vienna, Austria: 5 Best Areas & Hotels

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Planning a trip to Vienna and not sure where to stay? We’ve got you covered!

Vienna is a grand, elegant city known for its palaces, classical music, and world-class museums. It’s compact, clean, and incredibly easy to get around, so you never feel far from the city’s best sights. Whether you want to wander the historic streets of the Innere Stadt or soak up cool, creative energy in Neubau, choosing the right neighborhood will help set the tone for your trip.

After several visits, we’ve put together this guide to the five best areas to stay in Vienna. You’ll find a mix of historic hotspots and trendy districts, along with our top hotel picks for every budget. Let’s go!

Where to Stay in Vienna Map

Overview of the Best Areas to Stay in Vienna, Austria

Vienna is a compact and well-connected city, so once you’ve picked a neighborhood, it’s really easy to get around. Most locals and visitors use the excellent public transport network, which includes five U-Bahn lines, 20-plus tram routes, and a dense bus system that all sit inside the same core zone for ticketing, known as Zone 100. 

Trains and trams usually run from around 5 am until midnight, with the U-Bahn running through the night on Fridays, Saturdays, and the nights before public holidays. This makes evening concerts or dinners in another district very straightforward!

Taxis are easy to find at signed taxi ranks outside major sights, big hotels, and stations. You can also hail them on the street or ask a restaurant or bar to call ahead. They all run on meters and are generally very reliable, although they do cost more than public transport.

• Innere Stadt (Downtown/1st District) – Best for first-time visitors – Vienna’s historic center is the most central and atmospheric place to stay, although it is also the busiest and most expensive area. Hotel Capricorno is easily our top choice in this area!

• Leopoldstadt (2nd District) – Best for families and outdoor space – A green, family-friendly district between the Danube and the city centre, with big parks and quieter streets. It’s still just a short ride from the main sights. Superbude Wien Prater is a vibrant hotel, close to the park and not far from the city center.

• Landstraße (3rd District) – Best for culture lovers – Landstraße feels elegant and residential, with highlights like Belvedere Palace and Hundertwasserhaus. We think it suits families or couples who want somewhere quieter but still very central. Austria Trend Hotel Savoyen Vienna is a 4-star hotel at a moderate price, located close to the palace!

• Neubau (7th District) – Best for creative culture – Neubau is Vienna’s trendy, creative hub around the MuseumsQuartier, full of galleries, indie boutiques, and cool cafes – it’s lively and less traditional. The Weekend Hotel is a sleek mid-range option that we recommend.

• Wieden (4th District) – Best for food lovers – Wieden mixes is a fun and lived-in neighborhood close to the centre. It has a big student scene, with lots of food stalls, local bars, and great-value hotels. We love Suite Hotel 900 m zur Oper, the location is fantastic, and it’s a comfortable option!

Where to Stay in Vienna

Innere Stadt

BEST FOR FIRST-TIME VISITORS

Pros

• Beautiful historic atmosphere
• Walkable and close to major sights

Cons

• Most crowded and expensive district in Vienna
• Can feel very touristy

The Innere Stadt is Vienna’s historic heart and the most iconic place to stay. This is where you’ll find the grand architecture that the city is famous for, like Hofburg Palace and St. Stephen’s Cathedral. The entire district feels like a living museum!

We love exploring the hidden courtyards and cobblestone streets here, and popping into the elegant cafes when we’re in need of refreshments. Trust me, you haven’t lived until you’ve had Viennese hot chocolate.

If it’s your first time in Vienna, staying in Innere Stadt puts you steps from the city’s top sights and creates a magical backdrop for your visit. It’s a really walkable area, so sightseeing is an absolute breeze. You can explore the Ringstrasse, browse the boutiques along Kärntner Strasse, or visit world-class museums like the Albertina without ever hopping on the metro. 

Innere Stadt is also packed with restaurants and classical music venues, so evenings here are just as memorable as the days spent exploring. It is pricier than other areas, but you get what you pay for in terms of beauty and convenience. If it’s your first time in Vienna and you really want to get the most out of its cultural and historical highlights, we think that this is the best place to stay. 

Steigenberger Hotel Herrenhof – $$$

Steigenberger Hotel Herrenhof is a polished and elegant stay that feels very authentically “Vienna”. It’s located in the heart of Innere Stadt, and the rooms have a refined and comfortable feel that perfectly matches the building’s historic character. 

We love the location because you’re just a short stroll from Hofburg Palace, the Graben, and the city’s best shopping streets. The hotel also has a wellness area with a sauna and steam room, which is a wonderful treat after a day of exploring! 

Prices here range between €200 and €1,000 per night, depending on the room or suite category you opt for.

Don’t miss out – check availability and book your stay here!

The Leo Grand is another one of my top luxury picks in Vienna, set just steps from St. Peter’s Church and the Graben. The rooms feel upscale and stylish, with thoughtful touches like walk-in showers, plush robes, and soundproofing.

Hotel Sacher Wien is another unforgettable luxury option, located directly across from the State Opera and right beside Kärntner Straße. A perfect pick if you want historic charm, exceptional service, and one of the most iconic addresses in the city.

Hotel Capricorno – $$

Hotel Capricorno is a bright and cheerful hotel set right by the Danube Canal. Many rooms come with balconies, which is a rare treat in this district! The location is fantastic for sightseeing since you can walk to St. Stephen’s Cathedral in minutes, and the Schwedenplatz U-Bahn is right outside the door. 

The hotel feels friendly and relaxed, with a complimentary breakfast and warm service – what more could you want? The jewel-toned decor adds a plush touch, and the entire place is spotlessly clean. We think this is one of Innere Stadt’s best value stays! Rates range between €160 and €250 per night.

Check availability and book our favorite stay here!

Hotel Domizil is another super popular mid-range option in Vienna’s Old Town, with St. Stephen’s Cathedral just steps from the door. It’s comfortable, well-priced, and incredibly convenient—with cozy rooms, great service, and one of the best locations for sightseeing.

And if you want guaranteed views and a standout location on the Ringstraße, Hotel Am Parkring is a fantastic pick. The panoramic city vistas alone make it feel like an upgrade without the luxury price tag.

Aparthotel Adagio Vienna City – $

Aparthotel Adagio Vienna City is a smart budget option located along the Danube Canal. The studios and apartments come with simple kitchenettes, which are handy if you plan on staying a bit longer or enjoy preparing a few meals at home. The rooms are practical and modern, and the building has a clean, contemporary feel. 

You’re close to Schwedenplatz and within an easy walk of the Innere Stadt, so sightseeing is straightforward, and transport connections are excellent. It’s a great choice for budget travelers or families who want some extra space for their stay. 

Prices range between €100 and €180, with a 3-night minimum during the busy summer period.

You can find the best deals at Booking.com!

If you’re looking for another great-value stay in the center, Adagio Vienna City is a fantastic budget-friendly pick on the Ringstraße, just a 10-minute walk from St. Stephen’s Cathedral. The studios come with kitchenettes, making it ideal for longer stays or travelers wanting to save on meals.

Hotel Am Schubertring is also an excellent option nearby, offering stylish rooms at a friendly price point, and it’s only a 5-minute walk from the State Opera and Kärntner Straße.

Leopoldstadt

BEST FOR FAMILIES AND OUTDOOR SPACE

Pros

• Quiet, leafy streets and big parks
• Good value for money
• Short ride to main sights
  

Cons

• Less historic charm than central districts
• Quiet with no major landmarks in the area itself

Leopoldstadt is a spacious, leafy district just across the canal from Vienna’s old town. It’s known for its calm residential streets and large parks, but it still offers easy access to the city centre. This is a great place to stay if you want a bit more breathing room during your trip or if you’re traveling with kids.

The famous Prater Park is here, home to the iconic Riesenrad Ferris wheel and miles of walking paths where locals come to relax. You also have quick transport links to the Innere Stadt, which means you get the best of both worlds.

The district has a mix of historic buildings and modern developments, along with plenty of cafes, bakeries, and casual restaurants. To us, it feels safe and welcoming, and the quieter atmosphere offers a nice contrast to the busy tourist areas across the water. If you like greenery, this is one of the best districts in Vienna. Still, we enjoyed coming here whenever we needed a reprieve from the touristy atmosphere of the Innere Stadt, and we think that the area offers good value for money. 

Hilton Vienna Waterfront – $$$

Hilton Vienna Waterfront sits right along the Danube, and the river views alone make this hotel feel special! The rooms are bright and modern, with a chic and contemporary design. There’s also a seasonal outdoor pool overlooking the water, which is pretty rare in Vienna. 

You get quick access to the U-Bahn, so getting into the city center is easy. We think this hotel offers a peaceful base away from the crowds while still enjoying comfort and a unique waterfront setting. 

Rooms here typically range between €175 and €700 per night.

Check prices and reserve your stay here!

SO Vienna is a show-stopping luxury stay designed by architect Jean Nouvel, offering panoramic city views, a huge spa, and one of the most impressive rooftop restaurants in Vienna.

For a slightly more affordable upscale option, Courtyard by Marriott Vienna Prater/Messe is a fantastic pick, with spacious rooms, a top-floor spa, and quick metro access that gets you into the city center in minutes.

Superbude Wien Prater – $$

We think that Superbude Wien Prater is one of the coolest mid-range hotels in the city. It has a youthful, creative vibe with fun decor, sociable common spaces, and friendly staff. The rooms are modern and comfortable, and the on-site cafe is a great spot to start your day. 

You’re close to Prater Park, and just a few stops from the city centre, which makes sightseeing simple. It’s a fantastic pick if you want something stylish but reasonably priced, especially if you enjoy unique hotels with personality. Prices typically range between €100 and €350 per night.

Check availability and book your stay here!

If you’re after a comfortable mid-range stay with modern touches, Radisson Red Vienna is a great pick along the Danube Canal. Rooms come with air-conditioning, soundproofing, and tea-and-coffee makers, and you can even choose river-view options.

For something with more historic charm, Hotel Stefanie—Vienna’s oldest hotel—offers classic rooms, a beautiful courtyard restaurant, and one of the best locations in the city. Breakfast is included and highly praised, and you’re only a short walk from St. Stephen’s Cathedral and the Danube Canal.

Best Western Plus Hotel Arcadia – $

Best Western Plus Hotel Arcadia is a practical and affordable base near the Prater. The rooms are clean and straightforward, with everything you need for a comfortable stay. The hotel has a small fitness area and a breakfast room, and the staff are very helpful.

Location-wise, the Best Western is close to the Messe Prater U-Bahn station, so you can reach Innere Stadt quickly. It’s a solid choice for travelers who want to keep costs down while still staying in a well-connected and pleasant neighborhood. Rates range between €80 and €250 per night.

Get the best rates by booking in advance!

For an affordable stay near the Prater, ibis Styles Wien Messe Prater is a great pick with bright rooms, fun design, and easy access to the Danube Canal and the city center. You’re just a short walk from the Giant Ferris Wheel and two metro lines, making it super convenient for sightseeing on a budget.

Hotel Kunsthof is another excellent choice nearby, offering simple, clean rooms and a relaxed, artsy vibe just a 10-minute walk from the Prater and well-connected to the rest of Vienna.

Landstraße

BEST FOR CULTURE LOVERS

Pros

• Elegant and quiet
• Close to major sights
• Great transport links via Wien Mitte
• Surprisingly affordable 

Cons

• Not the best area for nightlife

Landstraße is an elegant district just southeast of the Innere Stadt. It has a calm, refined feel that makes it a lovely place to stay, especially if you’re not fussed about nightlife. As you explore the area’s wide boulevards, you’ll see that they’re lined with embassy buildings and grand mansions. 

The star attraction is Belvedere Palace, which sits within a beautiful baroque garden and holds one of the country’s best art collections. In Austria, that’s really saying something! You’ll also find the Hundertwasserhaus here, a quirky and colorful building that feels completely different from the city’s trademark classical style.

We think that this district suits travelers who want convenience without the crowds. You’re close to the historic center, and there are cultural attractions here, but the streets are very peaceful in the evenings. Landstraße also has excellent transport connections thanks to the Wien Mitte station. It links directly to the airport and gives you quick access to the U-Bahn and several tram routes.

I guess the main downside of this area is that there’s less nightlife compared to the center or Wieden. Still, you’ll find plenty of good restaurants and cafes in the daytime and early evening. For couples and families wanting somewhere classy and central, Landstraße is a fantastic pick!

InterContinental Wien by IHG – $$$

InterContinental Wien is a classic luxury hotel set right by the Stadtpark. The rooms feel polished and comfortable, and the communal areas feel very grand, with chandeliers and mahogany furniture. We especially love the refined lobby because it really sets the tone the moment you walk in! 

The hotel has several restaurants on site and a wellness area. With its old-world charm and excellent amenities, we think that this is a great choice for travelers who want a spacious, sophisticated base near both Landstraße and the Innere Stadt. Rates usually range between €150 and €750 per night.

See all options and book your stay here!

Landstraße has some standout luxury stays, and Hilton Vienna Park is another top choice with spacious rooms, park views, and unbeatable access to the airport train at Wien Mitte. It’s ideal if you want convenience and full hotel amenities in a central, elegant district.

Austria Trend Hotel Savoyen Vienna – $$

Austria Trend Hotel Savoyen Vienna is a modern 4-star hotel near Belvedere Palace. The rooms are large, with standard contemporary hotel decor. It’s not flashy, but it’s pleasant, current, and comfortable. 

The hotel has a great breakfast buffet, along with a bar and fitness area. You’re close to tram and metro connections, so exploring Vienna is simple. This is an excellent option if you want something polished without splurging on an all-out luxury stay. Expect to pay between €130 and €600 per night.

You can book your stay here with free cancellation!

If you’re looking for another solid mid-range option in Landstraße, Austria Trend Hotel Doppio Wien is a great pick with modern rooms, a fitness area, and easy tram access to Belvedere Palace and the city center.

For something a bit cozier, Hotel Spiess & Spiess offers elegant rooms, organic breakfast, and a quiet residential feel just steps from the U3 line. It’s perfect if you want comfort and charm without being far from the action.

Ruby Sofie Hotel Vienna – $

Ruby Sofie Hotel Vienna offers a fun and budget-friendly stay inside a beautifully restored historic building. The design is cool and contemporary, with bright communal spaces and lots of art. However, the rooms themselves actually feel quite refined and understated, with lots of natural light. It’s a nice mash-up between personality and classic hotel comfort.

The hotel has a relaxed bar, and we think that the welcoming atmosphere would appeal to younger travelers and digital nomads. You’re also near Wien Mitte, which gives you quick access to the airport and the rest of the city. Rooms range between €100 and €300 per night.

Get the best prices by booking in advance!

For another affordable stay with plenty of space, Rioca Vienna Posto 2 is a fun option with studio-style rooms, kitchenettes, balconies, and a relaxed Brazilian-inspired vibe. It’s great for longer stays thanks to the fitness room, garden, and plenty of cozy common areas.

For a more classic hotel setup, BEST WESTERN PLUS Amedia Wien offers modern rooms, a spa area with a sauna and steam bath, and quick metro access to the city center. It’s a solid budget-friendly choice if you prefer a traditional hotel feel with reliable amenities.

Related Read: Now that you’ve picked out a place to stay, see our 3-day Vienna Itinerary for a fully planned guide, including our favorite activities, hidden gems, and more!

Neubau

BEST FOR CREATIVE CULTURE

Pros

• Trendy area with great cafes and galleries
• Quick access to the MuseumsQuartier

Cons

• Less traditional than other districts
• Can be noisy at night

Neubau is the creative heart of Vienna! We find it to be one of the most exciting districts to stay in. It’s centered around the MuseumsQuartier, and it’s packed with galleries and uber-cool, independent boutiques. This area has a lively, youthful vibe and lots of local culture to check out. 

And not only does Neubau have an edgy, arty vibe and lots of low-key bars, it also boasts an excellent location. It’s very close to the historic center, while still displaying a more contemporary side of Vienna. You can get to Innere Stadt in just a few minutes using the U-Bahn, so it’s really easy to go sightseeing and then retreat to a more local area when you’ve had enough of the tourist hotspots.

Neubau is kind of the opposite of Landstraße in that it’s quieter during the day and can be busy in the evenings. That may suit you, or it may not! It also doesn’t have the classical Viennese charm of the Innere Stadt, but its creative atmosphere makes it an exciting place to stay. 

Hotel Sans Souci Wien – $$$

“Sans souci” means “no worries”, so we think it’s a pretty apt name for this luxurious boutique hotel! Hotel Sans Souci Wien delivers the full five-star experience right next to the MuseumsQuartier. The rooms are elegant and spacious, and we love how they blend sleek, modern design with classical touches. 

The highlight here is the hotel’s beautiful wellness area, which boasts a large indoor pool, sauna, and spa treatments. It feels like a city resort tucked inside one of Vienna’s most cultural districts.

The location is unbeatable if you want to explore both Neubau and the historic center, as you’ve got museums and galleries just a few steps away. 

Rooms here start at around €330 per night and can reach €1,500 for the legendary master suite.

Check availability and book your stay here!

For a boutique stay with real character, Altstadt Vienna is a standout pick in the charming Spittelberg quarter. This historic townhouse hotel feels like a private art-filled residence, with uniquely designed rooms, a legendary breakfast, and complimentary afternoon cake by the fireplace—it’s as cozy as luxury gets in Vienna. 

If you prefer something more contemporary, Hotel Gilbert delivers sleek modern rooms, an award-winning restaurant, and an unbeatable location steps from the MuseumsQuartier and the Ringstrasse. It’s a stylish, design-forward choice with all the comforts of a high-end urban stay.

The Weekend Hotel – $$

The Weekend Hotel is a fresh and contemporary hotel that doesn’t take itself too seriously. I think it fits Neubau’s creative spirit perfectly! It has bright, modern rooms and a cozy breakfast area, while you’ve got lots of cafes and indie shops right on your doorstep.

The location is excellent for exploring the MuseumsQuartier and surrounding streets, and public transport is close enough to make sightseeing effortless. It’s easy to settle into, and the perfect base for adventures around the city. Rooms here typically range from €85 to €450 per night.

Check all room categories and book your stay here!

If you’d like another mid-range option in Neubau, ARCOTEL Wimberger Wien is a great pick with spacious rooms, a full wellness area, and easy access to trams and the metro — perfect if you want comfort and convenience near Mariahilfer Straße. 

For something with a bit more personality, 25hours Hotel beim MuseumsQuartier brings bold, eclectic design, a fantastic rooftop bar, and one of the best locations for museum hopping. It’s a fun, stylish choice that makes exploring the 7th district effortless.

Ruby Marie Hotel Vienna – $

Ruby Marie Hotel Vienna is a fun and funky hotel set inside a former department store. It has the kind of bold design that you’d only find in Neubau, and I love the way the hotel makes such clever use of the space. There’s also a rooftop bar with great city views, plus plenty of relaxed social spaces where guests can hang out.

The hotel sits right by major shopping streets and is only a quick tram or metro ride from the historic center. If you’re looking for a lively, modern base that won’t stretch your budget, we think that Ruby Marie is a fantastic choice. Plus, it’s a super unique stay, so staying here is a bit of an experience in itself. Rooms usually cost between €95 and €350 per night.

Find the best prices and book your stay here!

If Ruby Marie Hotel Vienna is all booked up, Max Brown Hotel 7th District is another affordable and fun option with cozy rooms, a leafy courtyard, and an unbeatable location near the MuseumsQuartier. It has a relaxed, creative vibe, and the billiards table and terrace make it feel more like a hangout than a hotel. 

Flemings Hotel Wien-Stadthalle is another great choice just steps from Westbahnhof, offering modern rooms, a sauna, and easy access to Mariahilfer Straße. It’s a solid pick if you want comfort, good transport connections, and excellent value.

Wieden

BEST FOR FOOD LOVERS

Pros

• Great value and lively local vibe
• Close to Naschmarkt and major sights

Cons

• Limited luxury hotel options
• Can be busy, especially during the summer months

Wieden is a vibrant district just south of the Innere Stadt. It’s home to an interesting mixture of students, artists, and long-time locals, so it definitely has a lot of character. Wieden is celebrated for its youthful energy and great value hotels, and the famous Naschmarkt, which sits along the edge of the district! 

This area is our favorite part of the city to come and sample street food. We love to eat our way through Wieden, so make sure to try Austrian classics like käsespätzle or a warm apfelstrudel! There’s a huge variety of international food here too, especially Middle Eastern cuisine.

Wieden feels lived-in and has a more edgy, authentic feel than more polished parts of the city, like Innere Stadt and Landstraße. There are relaxed cafes and friendly bars scattered throughout. We think it’s an excellent pick for anyone looking for a fun, central neighborhood without Innere Stadt’s hefty price tag. Plus, it’s still close to major attractions like Karlskirche and the Vienna State Opera, and transport links make it easy to reach any other part of the city. 

We also like Wieden’s rich architectural mix, including colorful Jugendstil buildings and historic apartment blocks. The district can feel busy at times and has fewer luxury hotels than other areas, but for atmosphere, convenience, and value, it’s a fantastic pick.

Hotel Kaiserhof Wien – $$$

Hotel Kaiserhof Wien is a refined and elegant stay located on a quiet street near Karlskirche. The rooms feel warm and inviting, with traditional decor that gives the whole place a timeless charm. The service is exceptional, and the breakfast spread is a real highlight, packed with local specialties and fresh pastries. It’s also in a great location: you can walk to the opera house, the Naschmarkt, and several tram and metro stops in just a few minutes.

There’s a small wellness area on site, and the calm residential surroundings make it easy to unwind after a day of sightseeing. If you’re looking for a polished, classic Viennese stay with genuine hospitality, this hotel really delivers!

Rooms here start at €200 per night for doubles, and suites can reach €650 depending on the season.

Check availability and book your stay here!

For another great upscale stay in Wieden, Hotel Johann Strauss is a charming choice with its Art Nouveau building, soundproofed rooms, and easy access to Karlskirche and the Opera. It’s elegant without being formal, and the location by the U1 line makes exploring the city effortless. 

If you want something more modern, the Radisson Blu nearby offers sleek rooms, a sauna and fitness center, and an on-site Italian restaurant—an excellent pick for travelers who want extra comfort while staying close to Naschmarkt and the Secession.

Suite Hotel 900 m zur Oper – $$

Suite Hotel 900 m zur Oper is a fantastic mid-range option with big, comfortable rooms that feel more like small apartments. The suites are practical and spacious, which makes them great for families, longer stays, or anyone who wants extra elbow room. The location is excellent, just south of the opera house and close to the Naschmarkt.

Everything is walkable, and public transport links are nearby if you want to explore farther afield. It’s the perfect pick for travelers who want value, comfort, and convenience.

Rooms here typically range from €140 to €300 per night, with suites going up to around €600.

Check all the room options and book your stay here!

Hotel Erzherzog Rainer is a classic Wieden stay, especially if you love old-school Viennese charm with modern comforts. It’s just a short walk from Karlsplatz and the State Opera, and the on-site restaurant is a cozy spot to try traditional dishes after a day exploring the Naschmarkt. 

For something more contemporary, MOOONS Vienna is a stylish pick near the main train station and Belvedere Palace. The sleek rooms, rooftop vibe, and excellent transport connections make it ideal for anyone wanting a modern, design-forward stay that’s still close to Wieden’s cafés and relaxed markets. 

Four Points Flex – $

Four Points Flex is a simple, budget-friendly hotel with clean, modern rooms that give you everything you need for a comfortable stay. The design is minimalist and uncluttered, and the beds are surprisingly comfy for the price. You’re close to several metro stations, which makes getting around Vienna quick and easy, and Wieden’s lively food scene is right on your doorstep.

There’s no fuss here, but the staff are friendly, and the atmosphere is relaxed, which makes it ideal for travelers who plan on spending most of their time out exploring. It’s a dependable base that keeps costs down and doesn’t compromise on location. Rooms usually cost between €95 and €250 per night.

Find the best prices and book your stay here!

Hotel Attaché is a great budget-friendly pick in Wieden, especially if you want quick access to both the Belvedere and Karlskirche without paying city-center prices. The rooms are simple but comfortable, and the contactless check-in makes arrival easy. 

Another solid option nearby, myNext – Hotel Rudy offers bright rooms, a friendly breakfast spread, and surprisingly spacious common areas for the price point. It’s close to the main station, which makes getting around Vienna (and beyond) effortless. 

Top Activities to do in Vienna

Now that you’ve found your favorite area to stay in and the best hotel for your travel style, you can start filling in your itinerary! There is a lot to do in Vienna, so let us help you narrow down your options. Here are our personal favorite activities we did, and you can easily book them too!

• Visit the Schönbrunn Palace – As one of Austria’s most important sights, and a UNESCO site, this guided tour of the Schönbrunn Palace is a must. It includes skip-the-line entry (a true time saver) and comes with a guide who is basically a walking encyclopedia!

• Bicycle around Vienna – We love bike tours because they allow us to see more of the city, while saving our feet. This bicycle tour was excellent, and we cruised along the Danube River, found hidden gems, and local favorite spots!

• Visit the Alps – Escape the city on this full-day trip to the Alps! You’ll explore the scenic Salzkammergut region, visit Schloss Ort Castle and Hallstatt, and take in the amazing views from the Skywalk viewing platform for an ideal Austrian day.

• Take a food tour – Discover Vienna’s culinary staples on this food tour. This is a great way to dive into Austrian culture and find some of the city’s best hidden gems. We loved tasting the classic combo of apple strudel and Viennese coffee – so good!

• Learn about Vienna on a history tour – The best way to learn all about Vienna is on this history walking tour! It includes centuries of history, an architecture over, WWII history, and some local culture. By the end, you’ll know the ins and outs of Vienna!

Related Read: Looking for more can’t-miss activities? See our list of top things to do in Vienna here for the full scoop!

Renting a Car in Europe

Exploring Europe by car is a fantastic way to uncover hidden gems—think charming villages, scenic countryside, and off-the-beaten-path spots that trains and buses might miss. Driving here is generally straightforward, but it’s good to be prepared for some regional quirks.

We always use Discover Cars to book our rentals and can’t recommend them enough. It’s super easy to compare prices, check company ratings, find automatic cars (which can be tricky in Europe!), and add affordable full coverage insurance. If you want a full breakdown, check out our Discover Cars review here.

Tips for Renting a Car in Europe

• Know the local rules: Most countries drive on the right, except the UK, Ireland, Cyprus, and Malta. Road signs and driving laws can vary, so do a quick check before you go.
• Practice defensive driving: In parts of Europe, especially in the south, driving can feel fast-paced and a little unpredictable. Make sure you stay alert and keep a safe following distance.
• Insurance is essential: I highly recommend adding full coverage insurance to your rental. Whether it’s a parking lot ding or a chipped windshield on a mountain road, full protection gives you peace of mind. Plus, it’s super affordable through Discover Cars!
• Pick the right vehicle: Most rentals in Europe are manual, and automatic cars are limited, so book early if that’s what you need. A compact car is also ideal for narrow roads and tight parking. On Discover Cars, you can easily filter for everything you need.
• Watch for restricted zones: Many cities have low-emission or restricted traffic zones. Driving into these without a permit can result in fines, so always check local rules if you’re heading into a city center.
• Be prepared for border crossings: While crossing borders is usually easy within the Schengen Zone, some rental companies require you to declare your travel plans in advance. Always check with Discover Cars if you’re planning to drive into another country.

What You Need to Rent a Car in Europe

• A valid driver’s license from your home country.
• If you’re from outside the EU, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended—and in some countries, it’s legally required.
• A credit card in the driver’s name is typically needed for the security deposit.
• Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old. If you’re under 25, expect a young driver surcharge—and in some countries, the minimum age may be higher.

Ready to hit the road? Book your car with Discover Cars here and discover the freedom of exploring Europe on your own terms!

Thanks for reading!

Planning a trip to Vienna should be exciting, not stressful! So we are glad you found our where to stay guide, and hopefully by the end, you’ve found your ideal area and hotel to book. That way, you can enjoy your days wandering through the city, then have the perfect place to rest and recharge!

Need help planning the rest of your trip? See all of our Europe blogs here! Whether you’re looking for city itineraries, top things to do, or more where to stay guides – we’ve got you covered. Here are a few related blogs that will help you plan an unforgettable vacation. Cheers!

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