Austria Hotel Collection: City and Culture Breaks
From history-filled luxury hotel to artsy hideaway - These are Austria's best city break hotels.
Looking for that perfect break in an easy to reach destination bubbling with cultural treasures, urban experiences and local delights, no matter the season? Austria’s cities are just made for maximising short stays and their hotel options accommodate every type of city breaker – from connoisseurs looking for a little luxury in the centre of it all to those seeking a sophisticated downtown hideaway.
Unlock the Austrian “Lebensgefühl” and be inspired by the city edition of this year’s Austria Hotel Collection, a carefully selected group of premier accommodations that promise an unforgettable urban getaway.
LUXURY AND BOUTIQUE HOTELS IN THE HEART OF VIENNA
A charming symbiosis of architectural heritage and modern design, the 5-star luxury Almanac Palais Vienna sits on the Ringstrasse in the heart of Vienna's historic centre, making it a sumptuous starting point from which to explore the famous 1st district. Established in 1990 by Austrian entrepreneur and former basketball player Herbert Hasselbacher, the Almanac brand is renowned for crafting iconic hotels in historically significant locations, with curated design and personal touches. Guests at the Vienna hotel can start their day with a nourishing Austrian alpine-inspired “plant-forward” breakfast, then return to a spacious wellness area that includes a 14 m long indoor pool, sauna, gym and steam room after a long day exploring the capital.
Insider tip: Blindfold yoga, disco training or X-TREME PILATES anyone? The Almanac Palais Vienna offers a wealth of new experiences to enhance your stay.
Opened in 1898, the Ambassador Vienna is as classy as its name suggests. The hotel is one of the most history-filled buildings in the city, seamlessly blending traditional ambience with modern spirit and 19th century elements with the latest amenities. From Mozart to Mark Twain, many of the world’s greats have spent time here, and the hotel bar is a truly iconic place to unwind over a cocktail, cup of Viennese coffee or glass of Champagne to this day. Make the most of the Ambassador’s prime location on the exclusive Kärntner Strasse shopping street with St. Stephen’s Cathedral, the State Opera, Imperial Palace and Spanish Riding School in the immediate vicinity.
Insider tip: Bag yourself one of the spacious top floor apartments, which come with private terraces and unique views over the historic city centre.
The serviced apartments of Singerstrasse 21/15 are the epitome of urban living in the centre of Vienna, just 300 m from St Stephen’s Cathedral. The fully equipped, modern units with kitchen, bathroom, dining area and walk-in wardrobe feature Art Nouveau elements. Optional extras such as a generous breakfast buffet, laundry room and on-site garage make Singerstrasse a great choice for those looking for even more convenience throughout their stay.
Insider tip: Get to know the neighbours! Climb the 343 steps of the South Tower of St Stephan’s Cathedral for spectacular views across the rooftops of Vienna or take the lift up the North Tower before venturing down to visit the famous catacombs.
Trusted hospitality in the centre of Vienna – the Steigenberger Hotel Herrenhof does not disappoint. 196 elegant rooms and comfortable suites promise all the comforts of the Steigenberger brand, whilst the hotel restaurant takes care of the Austrian flavours, serving Viennese specialities made with produce sourced from local suppliers and excellent wines. With many of the city’s famous sights and the Kohlmarkt and Graben shopping streets within walking distance, the 250 m² hotel spa is a great place to unwind at the end of the day. Head to the sauna and then stretch out on a comfortable lounger in the elegant relaxation room or send that step count through the roof with a workout in the gym.
Insider tip: Be sure to make time for a cocktail or Viennese coffee under the 14 m high glass dome of the delightful Herrenhof bar, a homage to Béla Waldmann, the gastronomic founder of Herrengasse 10.
PAINTING THE PICTURE: ARTSY CITY HOTELS
Salzburg’s oldest guesthouse is now one of the historic city’s most stylish places to stay! Located close to Mozart's birthplace and opposite the Festival Hall, Arthotel Blaue Gans is lovingly decorated with no less than 120 original artworks. Being a building with a mediaeval structure, no one room is like the other, but all have been lovingly updated and furnished with natural materials and excellent craftsmanship. The historic restaurant sports vaulted ceilings and dark wooden beams, offering Austrian cuisine with a Mediterranean touch. Head chef Max Sampl combines top-notch products from the Alps with the lightness of the south, which makes his cuisine very Salzburg-esque. And then there’s Campari: celebrating the centuries-old trade routes between the Mozart town and Venice, it is served all day long at the hotel bar.
Insider tip: Cycling is a great way to explore the city of Salzburg and its surroundings. Bikes are included in the room price and are available from reception throughout spring, summer and autumn. Hotel staff are on hand to point you towards the main sights or the latest hotspots away from the tourist trail.
Tucked away in the trendy Servitenviertel, dotted with some of the city’s hippest cafés and restaurants, the Harmonie Vienna lies off the beaten path and yet just a few minutes’ walk from the Ringstrasse, home to many of the capital’s most famous sights and museums, and the Jewish quarter, where you will find the Jewish Museum and Sigmund Freud Museum. Located in the historic building of the former Harmonie Theater, hotel owner Sonja Wimmer’s artistic concept was inspired by art and dance, with a highlight being the unique “Signapura” project by Peruvian artist Luis Casanova Sorolla, whose works depict the dance movements of soloists from the Vienna State Opera. The Harmonie Vienna is committed to ensuring all guests can enjoy a relaxing stay and holds certificates for sustainability, allergy-friendliness and organic produce.
Insider tip: From theatre and ballet to exhibitions and food festivals, experience all that Vienna has to offer throughout the year and take advantage of the hotel’s ongoing cooperations with major partners from the city’s arts scene.
Innsbruck has no shortage of accommodation options, but trendy NALA individuellhotel stands out from the crowd. It has been transformed from a 1950s establishment into a modern city escape with colourful rooms and apartments, all individually designed in line with their quirky names and mountain views. Both the city centre and the nearest cable car are within walking distance. NALA is dedicated to sustainability, running on 90% green energy and using eco-friendly cleaning products, cosmetics and pillows as well as organic ingredients for the breakfast buffet.
Insider tip: No centrally-located Innsbruck hotel enjoys a quieter neighbourhood. NALA lies in the Wilten district, known as “the village in the city”, which has become a bit of a hipster spot whilst retaining its warm village character.
The Sans Souci Wien is a luxury haven around the corner from the trendy MuseumsQuartier, housing a private collection of world-famous Roy Lichtenstein artworks and an impressive 20 m pool lit by crystal chandeliers! Champagne fans will love the complimentary glass for breakfast, the more than 100 different types to choose from at the hotel bar and the private tasting opportunities. All rooms and suites were individually designed by Philippe Starck’s studio YOO with unique character and maximum comfort in mind. The same charming spirit adds a special touch to the Veranda Bar & Brasserie and the gorgeous Sans Souci Spa.
Insider tip: Sans Souci guests are offered an exclusive tour of hotel owner and pop art collector Norbert Winkelmayer’s private collection of Roy Lichtenstein works, which extends throughout the entire building.
AUSTRIA HOTEL COLLECTION 2026 AT A GLANCE
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