The Viennese Café is a hallmark of the cityscape and is even logged in the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage list since 2011. Represented most often by heavy-weights like Café Central and Café Sperl, they are as iconic as their coffee is strong and delicious. However, there are two main drawbacks to the Viennese coffee house: they are overly crowded and their service is famously unfriendly.
If these things are a turn-off, Cafe Weimar in the 9th district is a good way to get the best of both worlds. Built in the late 1880s and housing a café since 1900 ("Café Weimar" since just after World War I), this traditional hot spot has all the charm (German 'Gemütlichkeit') of the classic coffee house, but with very few of the tourists and a much friendlier waiting staff.
The interior renovations make it feel as it must have felt back in its heyday; its decoration remains faithful to history without being run-down or decrepit. The ambience is enhanced by a live piano player every day of the week. And in summer, there's plenty of seating on the pleasant Alsergrund sidewalks (hint: it's better on the Wilhelm-Exner-Gasse side, away from the noise of Währingerstrasse).
To top it off, the WUK cultural center and concert hall is directly across the street and the lively, creative Volksoper is about 100 meters up the street. This all makes a strong argument for the Weimar Cafe being one of the best combinations of traditional style, friendliness, and local flavor.
Find your way with 162 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
"Donaukanal" in Vienna is a centrally located hotspot by the water. I, like many others, love to hang out here by the water or at one of these bars...
by
"Yak & Yeti" has been around for 17 years yet it is the only Nepalese eating spot in Vienna. The best time to enjoy an authentic style dinner is Tuesday.
by
The Vienna government supports the summer concerts and cultural spots popping up, so we can enjoy tons of activities for free. Lucky us, and lucky you!
by
While lifts are a basic feature of modern apartment buildings today, 120 years ago, they were still considered luxury amenities...
by
"Zuckero" is a real gem in Vienna for everyone sticking to a vegan, sugar and gluten-free diet! Their cakes and ice cream are just stunning...
by
Wotruba Church is a wonderful, brutalist architectural miracle made of 152 concrete blocks, located just outside Vienna. Definitely worth the travel...
by
L'Orient in Vienna satisfies both my heart and my stomach. This Moroccan restaurant pays attention to detail, and the hummus is some of the best ever...
by
Türkenschanzpark is what many call the most beautiful park in the city. It has it all: small pathways, ponds, rolling hills, and rare botanical plants.
by
Vienna has a rich outdoor cinema scene; check out the most comprehensive, up-to-date guide with my tips and recommendations for a complete experience here!
by
Flakturm in Vienna has a very interesting history. You can explore it from the outside climbing and enjoy the view, or go inside and visit Haus des Meeres
by
162 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 162 Insider Tips