Austria Hotel Collection
Winter City & Culture Breaks

Christmas market hopping, cultural break, foodie experiences or a mix of all – Austria’s cities are just made for maximising short stays, and their hotel options accommodate every type of winter city breaker – from connoisseurs looking for a little luxury in the centre of it all to those seeking a sophisticated downtown hideaway.

Get 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.

Almanac Palais 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 1^st 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: From November through February, guests can book the “A Night at the Ball“ package, including two hotel nights, ball tickets, a private dance class, pre-ball dinner, cocktails and champagne, and a soothing massage the day after. 

Ambassador Vienna

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 19^th 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: The Christmas market at St Stephan’s Cathedral is just a 5-minute-walk from the hotel. It has roughly 40 stalls and is a great place for traditional Austrian crafts, mulled wine and seasonal snacks.

Singerstrasse 21/15, Vienna

Looking for maximum independency rather than a hotel, plus the feeling of living like a local? 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: Climb the 343 steps of the South Tower of St Stephan’s Cathedral – or take the lift up the North Tower – and marvel at the Christmas lights and the market in front of the cathedral from above.

Steigenberger Hotel Herrenhof, Vienna

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: Celebrate Christmas or New Year’s Eve at their in-house Béla Béla restaurant and enjoy a 6-course dinner including aperitif, wine, and coffee/tea.

Harmonie Vienna

Tucked away in the trendy Servitenviertel, dotted with hip cafés and eateries, the Harmonie Vienna lies off the beaten path, 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 with the Jewish Museum and Sigmund Freud Museum. The hotel is housed in the former historic Harmonie Theater, and owner Sonja Wimmer has fittingly turned it into an artistic place inspired by the city’s dance tradition. A highlight is the “Signapura” project by Peruvian artist Luis Casanova Sorolla, whose works depict the dance movements of soloists from the Vienna State Opera. The hotel is committed to ensuring all guests have a relaxing stay and holds certificates for sustainability, allergy-friendliness and organic produce.

Insider tip:  The Altwiener Christkindlmarkt, one of Vienna’s oldest Christmas markets dating back to 1772, is only 800 m away. A local favourite, it is known for traditional crafts, nativity displays and a quieter atmosphere than the larger markets.

Sans Souci Vienna

The Sans Souci Vienna is a luxury haven around the corner from 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.

Arthotel Blaue Gans, Salzburg

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 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 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: Salzburg’s main Christmas market on Domplatz and Residenzplatz is only 500 m away. Heading there, you’ll pass famous Getreidegasse and Mozart’s birthplace.

NALA Individuellhotel, Innsbruck

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: NALA sits in the Wilten district, a hipster hotspot which has still managed to retain ist village character. It’s small Christmas market at Wiltener Platzl is a local favourite where you can find  everything from handmade gifts to regional and international food. 

Austria Hotel Collection at a glance

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