Let’s be honest—we’ve all heard the usual suspects when it comes to European summer hot spots: Italy, the South of France, Greece… you know the drill. And hey, we love them too (as long as they’ll keep tolerating us loud-talking Americans).
But this year, we’re switching it up. It’s time to start your Euro Summer in a city that blends Old World charm with fresh, modern energy: Vienna, Austria. (Hello, Tirolean ‘Coolcation.’ So long, sweltering Mediterranean beach mobs.)
Walking through Vienna feels like stepping into a living history book—except with better coffee and a thriving cultural pulse. Yes, you’ll find grand imperial palaces, classical music halls, and cobblestone streets steeped in Habsburg-era grandeur. But you’ll also discover hip cafés, stylish boutiques, inventive restaurants, and contemporary art galleries that prove Vienna is anything but stuck in the past.
Ahead, we’re breaking down where to stay, what to eat, and how to soak up the very best of this dynamic capital. 🇦🇹
Where to Stay in Style
This family-run boutique hotel in the Spittelberg district feels more like a stylish home than a hotel. It boasts 62 unique rooms, each designed by distinct artists and designers. The whole place is packed with over 350 art pieces, giving it a creative, one-of-a-kind feel. Throw in a rooftop garden, a laid-back atmosphere, and some of Vienna’s best restaurants just around the corner, and you’ve got the perfect mix of culture and comfort.
Just steps away from the city’s historic center, Almanac Palais Vienna is the perfect spot to be. The rooms and suites are big and uniquely designed, with some even featuring private in-room saunas. Plus, it has a restaurant that serves creative, locally inspired cuisine and a coffee shop filled with fresh local snacks. Not to mention, the wellness area has an indoor pool, sauna, and steam room.
Where to Wine & Dine
Tian is changing the game when it comes to vegetarian cuisine. Led by Michelin-starred chef Paul Ivic, this award-winning spot serves up organic, seasonal dishes that go beyond just vegetables. They use everything from root to leaf, experimenting with fermentation and unique cooking techniques to make mouthwatering dishes.
Motto am Fluss might look like a ship, but it’s actually a restaurant right on the Danube Canal. With a laid-back vibe and great views of the water, it’s the perfect spot to grab a bite. The menu mixes international flavors with a local Austrian twist, meaning there’s sure to be something you haven’t tried before.
Das Loft is a hidden gem on the 18th floor of the SO/ Vienna. The menu features a mix of classic Viennese cuisine paired with global flavors, served from breakfast all the way through to dinner. If you’re just looking for a drink, no worries—grab a spot at the bar and enjoy a cocktail while watching the sunset over Vienna.
Vienna’s Must-See Spots
The Kunsthistorisches Museum is a must-visit for art lovers. It’s one of the world’s premier museums, boasting a vast collection that spans from Ancient Egypt to the Renaissance and beyond. The museum itself is a work of art, decorated with stunning architecture and an interior that’ll make you feel as though you’ve stepped into a palace. Whether you’re into art, history, or culture, this place delivers.
Home to the world’s largest collection of works by Austrian Expressionist Egon Schiele, The Leopold Museum is a must-visit in Vienna’s MuseumsQuartier. Founded by art collectors Rudolf and Elisabeth Leopold, the museum also showcases key pieces by Gustav Klimt and other Viennese Modernists. Housed in a striking minimalist cube, it’s a treasure trove of moody portraits, bold brushstrokes, and fin-de-siècle flair.
Schönbrunn Palace is one of Vienna’s top landmarks, and it’s easy to see why. This Baroque palace was once the summer residence of the Habsburgs, and it’s packed with history and beauty. The palace is fun to explore, thanks to its grand rooms that take you back to imperial times. But it’s not just the inside that’s worth a visit—the gardens are massive and perfect for strolling, with a maze, fountains, and even a gloriette with picture-perfect views of the city.
Did we hook you on booking your Euro Summer getaway to Austria? Good—then click the button below to explore our Austria Hub, a curated medley of stories. From Salzburg escapes and wellness stays galore, consider this your guide to Europe’s eastern gem. (Someone cue The Sound of Music.)