Demel
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About
Formerly the 'Purveyor to the Imperial and Royal Court,' Demel is a temple of sugar and chocolate. The interior is a masterpiece of dark wood and glass cases filled with intricate pastries. A unique feature is the glass-walled kitchen where you can watch the pastry chefs hand-pull strudel dough. The staff traditionally speaks in the third person, a relic of courtly etiquette. Expert recommendation: Their 'Kaiserschmarrn' (shredded pancakes) is widely considered the best in the city. Practical pro tip: Don't wait in the long sit-down line if you're in a hurry; the front counter offers 'to-go' versions of their most famous treats, including the Kaiserschmarrn in a box, which you can enjoy while walking to the Hofburg.
Highlights
- Former Imperial Court Confectionery
- Open kitchen pastry viewing
- Royal purple decor
- Famous candied violets
Amenities
Nearby Attractions
Kohlmarkt
Known as the 'Golden Quarter,' Kohlmarkt is the most expensive and prestigious shopping street in Vienna. Historically the market for charcoal (Kohle), it now hosts flagship stores for brands like Chanel, Gucci, and Cartier. The street offers a direct view of the Hofburg’s Michaelertor, creating a grand architectural backdrop for luxury browsing. Expert recommendation: Visit the legendary Demel pastry shop located right on the street to see their window displays of sugar art. Practical pro tip: Even if you aren't shopping for luxury goods, the street is worth a walk for the window displays and the view toward the palace. It is particularly magical during the Christmas season when it is draped in 'cascading' light displays.
Spanish Riding School
This 450-year-old institution preserves the classical art of Haute Ecole horsemanship in the Baroque setting of the Winter Riding School. The famous Lipizzaner stallions perform intricate 'dances' that were originally military maneuvers. The experience is one of regal elegance, characterized by the white uniforms of the riders and the synchronized movements of the horses. Expert recommendation: If full performance tickets are too expensive, attend the 'Morning Exercise' (Morgenarbeit) to see the training process with musical accompaniment. Practical pro tip: Photography and video are strictly prohibited during all performances and training sessions. Book months ahead for gala performances as they sell out globally.
Esterhazykeller
Deep beneath the streets near the Graben, this historic wine cellar dates back to the 17th century. It was once frequented by Joseph Haydn. The atmosphere is rustic and cavernous, with brick vaults and wooden benches. It serves wine from the Esterházy estates and simple, hearty Austrian snacks and platters. Expert recommendation: Try the 'Heurigen' style cold platters (Brettljause) with a glass of their signature Grüner Veltliner. Practical pro tip: It’s a great 'hidden' spot to escape the summer heat, as the deep cellar remains naturally cool. It’s also very budget-friendly for the first district. Access is through a small courtyard that feels like stepping back in time.
Café Central
Café Central is Vienna's most celebrated grand café, housed in a palatial neo-Gothic building in the heart of the first district. Opening in 1876, it became the meeting place of Vienna's intelligentsia — Lenin, Freud, Trotsky, and the young Adolf Hitler all frequented these marble-topped tables. Today, expertly dressed waiters in bow ties serve an extensive menu of coffees, from melange to einspänner, alongside elaborate Viennese pastries and light meals. The towering vaulted ceilings, marble columns, and grand piano accompaniment transport visitors to the golden age of Viennese café society.
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