The 10 best hotels in Vienna

What is it? A converted apartment building in the super-cool seventh district that’s been turned into a characterful boutique hotel. Each of the 45 bedrooms has been designed by a Viennese artist, and everyone gets together for coffee and homemade cake by the fire in the afternoons.

Why go? Although you’re a short walk from the city’s cultural centre, it feels like a real home from home. From the generous Austrian breakfast to the honesty bar, guests are treated like family.

What is it? One of the city’s coolest hotels (it’s hosted its fair share of bands on tour), this is a peaceful, palm-fringed courtyard oasis in the middle of the buzzy seventh district. Vintage furniture, a friendly crowd and homecooked food add up to a stay with real personality.

Why go? You’ll have galleries, shops and gorgeous squares on your doorstep, but if you’re planning the kind of weekend where you barely go outside, this is the place to spend it. The rooms are pure Wes Anderson, and the restaurant (run by the owner’s mum) serves fab Filipino food.

What is it? Right on the Ringstrasse, this upscale option has serious wow factor – think chandeliers, plush carpets and fabulous modern Austrian food (there’s a dedicated schnitzel station).

Why go? With a rooftop pool, swanky cars for hire and multiple bars and restaurants, the Grand Ferdinand is as glam as it gets. But a stay here needn’t melt your credit card – there’s an Orient Express-a-like dorm where you can get a bed for just €30.

What is it? Affordable charm with a conscience – this hotel-meets-social-enterprise near the Prater is committed to creating opportunities for those from under-represented groups, and is run and staffed by a young and enthusiastic team of former refugees.

Why go? Lots of hotels talk the green-and-sustainable talk, but Magdas puts its money where its mouth is. Upcycled retro furnishings, artworks from students at the Academy of Fine Arts and eco-friendly toiletries complete the picture. The food’s great, too.

What is it? Its entrance is tucked between two shops just around the corner from St Stephen’s cathedral, but this boutique hotel’s rooms are mega spacious, with high ceilings and vast, comfy beds.

Why go? It’s incredibly comfy and there are loads of extras included in the room rate, from coffee and cake to pre-dinner aperitifs and snacks for guests. Make sure you’re up in time for a huge, organic breakfast in the courtyard.

What is it? A riotously colourful design boutique with stunning views over the Austrian Parliament and the Museum Quarter.

Why go? With a photobooth in the lobby and a drum kit hanging above the bar, this place is guaranteed to make you smile. Rooms are all individually designed, and there’s a gym and spa in the basement. Before you check out, buy some honey from the hotel’s rooftop hives to take home.

What is it? Don’t be fooled by the folksy name – this luxe boutique rubs shoulders with the Opera House and the Hotel Sacher in the Albertinaplatz, one of Vienna’s grandest squares. A former hostel, it’s had a Mad Men makeover courtesy of Conran & Partners.

Why go? With its own brasserie and bakery serving homemade waffles, filled organic bagels and cheeses from local farmers, this is one for foodies as well as design aficionados. Every room comes with four bottles of top-quality wine, too.

What is it? In its former life, this collection of super-hip suites in the up-and-coming second district was a huddle of empty shops. Today it’s an architect-masterminded gem, with very reasonable rates for the amount of space you get. The Grätzl micro-chain has three other properties dotted around the city, all well worth investigating.

Why go? You feel like you’re really living in the city, rather than just passing through – the rooms are more like serviced apartments, although there’s always someone on hand if you need any help or advice. Hire a bike and pedal around the farmer’s market, or plan the next day’s adventure in the cafe with a perfectly made coffee and some homemade cake.

What is it? For a luxurious, grown-up getaway, this converted stable block is hard to beat. The rooms are an elegant symphony in navy blue and cream, and the food is outstanding.

Why go? Want a city break that’ll also let you unwind? It’s incredibly quiet in the gardens here, but the city centre is an easy walk away. Nothing is too much trouble for the attentive, thoughtful staff.

What is it? In an imposing townhouse that's been a monastery and a post office at various points, Ruby Lissi has chic, minimalist rooms from just €89‎ a night – “lean luxury” is their motto. (Sister hotel Ruby Sofie is a great choice too, with the same budget-glam philosophy).

Why go? It’s ideal if you’re counting the pennies but don’t want to compromise on creature comforts: think oversized beds, rain showers and silent air conditioning. There’s no room service, but the bar’s open 24 hours and day, serving Italian-inspired cocktails and aperitivi.