The Guesthouse Vienna
Build a trip to Vienna
About
Designed by the renowned British architect Sir Terence Conran, this boutique hotel offers a 'home away from home' vibe with a focus on understated luxury and high-quality design. It is located in a former student hostel, now transformed into a stylish haven with built-in libraries and leather sofas in the rooms. The atmosphere is cozy, intellectual, and effortlessly cool. Expert recommendation: The window seats in the rooms are designed like daybeds—perfect for watching the sunset over the Albertina Museum with a glass of local wine from the in-room bar. Practical pro tip: Their ground-floor bakery and brasserie are legendary for breakfast; guests can enjoy freshly baked bread and specialty coffee without the typical hotel-breakfast formality. Book a 'Deluxe' room for the best views of the opera district.
Highlights
- Sir Terence Conran design
- In-room wine cabinet
- Famous artisanal breakfast
- Next to Albertina Museum
Amenities
Nearby Attractions
Bitzinger Würstelstand (Albertina)
This is arguably the most famous sausage stand in the world, located right next to the Albertina Museum and the State Opera. Bitzinger has elevated street food to a cult status, serving high-quality sausages with premium condiments and even Moët & Chandon champagne. The contrast of eating a sausage on a silver tray while looking at the Opera is uniquely Viennese. Expert recommendation: Order a 'Käsekrainer' (cheese-filled sausage) 'a la dente' (sliced with mustard and horseradish) or in a 'Hot Dog' bun. Practical pro tip: Expect a line, especially after opera performances or late at night. It’s one of the few places in the center open until the early hours of the morning (4:00 AM).
Albertina Museum
Housed in a former Habsburg residential palace atop one of the last remaining stretches of Vienna's fortifications, the Albertina combines imperial state rooms with one of the world's most important print rooms. Its collection spans from Dürer to Picasso and contemporary art. The museum's exterior is marked by a striking modern wing (the Soravia Wing) that juxtaposes beautifully with the classical facade. Expert recommendation: Don't miss Dürer's 'Young Hare' if it's on display, though it's often kept in dark storage for preservation. Practical pro tip: Use the long escalator at the front for a great photo op of the State Opera. The museum is open daily, making it a great Monday option when others are closed.
Café Sacher
This is the birthplace of the world’s most famous chocolate cake, the Original Sacher Torte, created in 1832. The cafe is the height of imperial luxury, with red damask walls, crystal chandeliers, and white-gloved service. It offers a sensory plunge into the opulence of the Habsburg era. Expert recommendation: The Sacher Torte is best enjoyed with a generous dollop of 'Schlagobers' (unsweetened whipped cream) and a 'Wiener Melange' coffee. Practical pro tip: The main cafe line is usually very long, but the 'Sacher Eck' on the corner of the same building often has a shorter wait and serves the exact same cake. You can also buy whole cakes in beautiful wooden boxes as premium souvenirs.
Imperial Crypt (Kaisergruft)
Located beneath the Capuchin Church, the Imperial Crypt is the final resting place of 150 members of the Habsburg dynasty, including 12 emperors and 19 empresses. The sarcophagi range from the simple to the incredibly ornate, most notably the massive double sarcophagus of Maria Theresa and her husband. The atmosphere is somber, cold, and deeply moving. Expert recommendation: Pay attention to the sarcophagus of Empress Elisabeth (Sisi); it is always covered in fresh flowers from her admirers. Practical pro tip: It is a small space and can feel crowded; visit early in the morning for a more reflective experience. The entrance is a bit inconspicuous, so look for the small door next to the Capuchin Church.
Reviews
Visited this place? Share your experience and help other travelers.