Vienna

Centrally located with good public transport connections, just a few minutes to the city center. About €100 a night, very good value for money. Modern and stylish interior, good location with a fast connection to the center, easy self-service check-in via machine, ideal for flexible arrivals.

Central, only about a 5-minute walk from Vienna's main train station, ideal for arrival by train or a good connection to the airport. About €90 a night for a double room, okay to somewhat lacking value for money. Central location near the main station, adequate if rather basic breakfast, quick access to public transport. Downside: rooms with thin walls, very minimalist and plain, little charm.

Central, near the Stephansplatz subway station, a traditional Viennese Beisl with a cozy atmosphere and friendly service. Classic Austrian dishes like Wiener Schnitzel (also vegetarian), Käsespätzle and spinach dumplings, very good value for money especially given the central location.

In the first district, near the Hofburg, a coffeehouse steeped in tradition with an impressive historic atmosphere, high ceilings, marble columns and a stylish interior. We had breakfast here and ate Kaiserschmarrn, both very tasty and beautifully presented, attentive service despite the crowds.

Idyllically set in the Belvedere palace garden, a cozy tavern with a lovely terrace and traditional flair. We did a beer tasting with a starter platter of Obazda, pretzels, spreads and other Bavarian-Austrian specialties, a relaxed atmosphere, attentive and friendly service.

Central in the 1st district, not far from Schwedenplatz, a stylish, modern spot focused on authentic Neapolitan pizza. Fluffy dough, high-quality and authentic ingredients, friendly and attentive staff.

Right in the Burggarten between the Hofburg and the Albertina, tall glass ceilings, tropical plants and stylish interiors create a unique atmosphere. The coffee didn't quite win us over on taste, but the location is impressive.

Above Schönbrunn Palace with a wide view over the city, after our palace visit we enjoyed coffee and cake here, both really good, friendly staff and attentive service.

In the 6th district, a bit away from the crowds, a small, stylish café with a cozy vibe. Coffee, matcha and croissant, all delicious, simple, modern and welcoming decor.

In the 7th district, minimalist, modern and entirely focused on matcha and coffee, we ordered an iced matcha.

One of Vienna's most significant sights, an architectural gem with imperial history, the former summer residence of the Habsburgs. Grand rooms, sprawling gardens and a magnificent view over Vienna, a guided tour is especially worthwhile to learn more about Empress Sisi, Emperor Franz Joseph and the monarchy.

We had the Classic Pass for €40 per person, including the Grand Tour of the palace (with audio guide or guided tour), access to the Crown Prince Garden, admission to the maze/labyrinth, access to the Orangery Garden and admission to the Gloriette viewing terrace. In western Vienna, well connected by subway (Schönbrunn station, U4), open daily 8:30am to 5:30pm.

Included in the ticket were the historic maze with several paths and viewing platforms as well as the Crown Prince Garden and the Orangery Garden (the latter was unfortunately hard to find during our visit). The Gloriette, a classicist pavilion on a hill, is freely accessible, as is the café inside it, the rooftop viewing terrace is one of the paid areas.

One of Europe's most impressive baroque garden complexes, between the Upper and Lower Belvedere, with artfully designed landscapes and glorious views over Vienna's city center. Baroque garden art with sculptures, fountains and pergolas, panoramic view from the upper palace, botanical garden and alpine garden for an extra fee. Free, open daily approximately 6:30am to 8pm.

One of the country's oldest sparkling wine producers, a deep dive into the art of sparkling wine production. The Classic Tour for €18 per person includes admission to the cellar world, an audio guide for a self-guided tour, and a tasting of three sparkling wines (Sparkling Brut, Rosé Brut, Grüner Veltliner Brut). Thursday to Saturday noon to 8pm.

Around the 19th district several Heurigen and Buschenschanken wine taverns with their own vineyards, quiet, green courtyards among the vineyards and warm staff, including Stadtweingut und Heuriger Johannes Müller, Buschenschank Wanderer at the foot of the Nussberg, Esse Weinbau & Buschenschank, Weingut-Heuriger Alter Bach-Hengl and Mayer am Pfarrplatz. Good wines everywhere like Grüner Veltliner and Zweigelt, plus a hearty Jause snack platter with cheese and farmhouse bread.

Known for its amusement park that has been drawing visitors for over 250 years, the Vienna Giant Ferris Wheel is a genuine landmark with a great view over the city, plus many more rides from carousels to roller coasters.

Impressive architecture meets big names like Bruegel, Rubens and Velázquez, the exhibition is huge but well organized. Especially lovely is the café under the dome. Open daily 10am to 6pm, Thursdays until 9pm.

Not just a classic café but a genuine sight, the historic hall with high ceilings, marble columns and chandeliers is impressive, once a meeting place for figures like Freud, Trotsky and Zweig.

A beautiful, historic glass building with a wonderful view of the Burggarten, especially lovely on the terrace in nice weather.