Wondering where to stay in Vienna for families? Here’s our recommendations on the best areas to stay in Vienna, plus suggestions for the best hotels in those areas.

Deciding where to stay in Vienna with your family is important and can transform a good vacation into an unforgettable adventure. In this guide, we’ll explore the different districts and accommodations that are best for families, ensuring your trip is both enjoyable and convenient. 

Before visiting Vienna with my kids, I was a little overwhelmed with accommodation options. There were so many different districts and areas to stay, and I wasn’t sure which was best for us. 

Ultimately, we ended up visiting Vienna twice and stayed in different areas each time. Here’s my suggestions on the best areas to stay in Vienna with kids, as well as some great family-friendly hotels in each area. 

Understanding Vienna’s Layout

Vienna’s unique layout is organized into a series of concentric districts, spiralling out from the historic centre. While it sounds confusing, it’s actually pretty easy to navigate. 

There’s 23 districts, with the Innere Stadt, or 1st District, at its heart. Surrounding this is the Ringstrasse, a large boulevard where many of the city’s historic sights are located. As the numbers increase, the districts fan outwards, and each has its own distinct character and attractions. 

Understanding the districts is helpful when deciding where to stay in Vienna, as well as when planning visits to various attractions.

The Innere Stadt is where you’ll find many of Vienna’s historical and cultural attractions, including the Hofburg Palace, St. Stephen’s Cathedral and the State Opera House.

As you move into the outer districts, you’ll find a blend of residential areas, parks and local gems that offer great family-friendly accommodations. 

The Best Areas to Stay in Vienna with Kids

Vienna has 23 different districts, but you will want to stay close to the center for easy access to Vienna’s sights and attractions. Our top recommendations for families are:

Innere Stadt: The Heart of the City
Leopoldstadt: Parks & the Prater
Landstrasse: Quiet streets & Belevedere Castle
Neubau: the Museum District
Mariahilf: Shopping, Cafes & Haus des Meeres

Where to Stay in Vienna for Families: Map of Districts and Top Hotels

1. Innere Stadt (1st District): The Heart of Vienna

The Innere Stadt, or Vienna’s 1st District, is the historic core of the city and a great place to stay if you’re looking to be close to attractions and things to do. It’s an ideal base for families wanting to explore Vienna’s rich history and top sights without having to travel far, but with that convenience, does come higher prices and limited availability in peak seasons. 

Why it’s perfect for families:

  • Central location, within walking distance to many major attractions
  • Rich cultural experience, with centuries-old landmarks bringing history to life
  • Safe and convenient, with pedestrian-friendly streets and squares and plenty of cafes and restaurants to grab a snack or meal

What to see and do in the Innere Stadt:

  • Explore the Imperial Hofburg Palace complex
  • Walk down the Graben
  • Stroll through the Burggarten
  • Visit the Butterfly House
  • Visit the Vienna State Opera
grand imperial palace in vienna - the hofburg palace is white with ornate windows and green domes on top
Hofburg Palace

Where to Stay in Vienna’s Innere Stadt

Luxury: Hotel Sacher Wien

Opposite the impressive State Opera and the Albertina Museum, Hotel Sacher Wien offers an iconic Viennese experience. This is where the famous Sacher-torte was created, a delicious chocolate sponge cake that you can still sample in the restaurant on-site. 

The hotel is set in a 150-year-old building, and features rooms that are individually decorated with elegant furniture and chandeliers. While rooms may not be the most child-friendly, the hotel does offer family rooms and babysitting or child-minding services are available. It’s a great location for families, within a short walk to most attractions in the historic center 

Mid-Range: Vienna Marriott Hotel

Situated directly on the Ringstrasse and opposite the Stadtpark, the Vienna Marriott Hotel is a great choice for families. The historic center, with attractions such as St.Stephens Cathedral and the State Opera, is only a 5-10 minute walk away, and the Stadtpark across the street is a perfect spot for kids to play after (or before) a day of sightseeing. Family rooms, an on-site restaurant and an indoor pool are added bonuses for families travelling with kids. 

Mid-range: Austria Trend Hotel Europa Wien

This 4-star hotel, located on the iconic Karntner Strasse shopping street, is within easy walking distance from many attractions and its location makes it a top pick for families.

The Austria Trend Hotel Europa Wien is only a 5 minute walk to St. Stephens Cathedral and the State Opera, and the metro is easily accessible for venturing outside of the historic centre. The hotel offers family rooms, and an excellent breakfast, making it a great choice when considering where to stay in Vienna for families. 

Apartments: KH Opera Apartments

Located a block from the State Opera, and right across from Karlsplatz metro, the KH Opera Apartments are in a great location to explore Vienna. We stayed here and really enjoyed how convenient these apartments were to access everything in Vienna. The metro station is right across the road, and made it easy to reach the apartments from the airport.

the outside of the building where KH opera apartments are located - it's a large white 5 story building with tall windows on every floor
the couch and wall decroation (blue cirlces) above the couch in KH Opera apartments

The apartments were extremely clean and all feature a separate sleeping area, which is great when kids have an early bedtime. The kitchen facilities meant we could cook some of our own meals, which is great for picky eaters or those trying to visit Vienna on a budget. And with a SPAR supermarket just around the corner, it was easy to pick up necessities and snacks for exploring. 

KH Apartments Stephansplatz is also a great choice. These excellent apartments are similar to the ones we stayed in, but located a block from Stephansplatz metro and easily within walking distance to most attractions in the historic centre. 

the Karlskirche, directly across from KH Opera Apartments

2. Leopoldstadt (2nd District): Parks and the Prater

Leopoldstadt, Vienna’s 2nd District, is located just across the Danube Canal, and while it’s not in the very heart of Vienna’s historic centre, it’s only a short walk away. Known for its sprawling parks and the famous Prater amusement park, this district is quieter than the Innere Stadt and is perfect for families to relax after a day of exploring Vienna. 

Why it’s perfect for families:

  • Plenty of green spaces and beautiful parks, including the Prater and Augarten
  • Quieter neighbourhoods and more affordable
  • Easy to access the rest of the city, and only a short walk from the Innere Stadt

Things to do in Leopoldstadt:

  • Have fun at Prater Amusement Park 
  • Ride the Wiener Riesenrad, the iconic Ferris wheel
  • Take a boat ride on the Danube
  • Relax or have a picnic at the Augarten
the riesenrad, vienna's iconic ferris wheel as seen over the prater, the large amusement park which is in leopoldstadt, one of the best areas to stay in vienna for families

Where to Stay in Leopoldstadt:

Luxury: Sofitel Vienna Stephansdom

The Sofitel Vienna Stephansdom is a stylish hotel that not only offers luxurious accommodations but also boasts stunning panoramic views of Vienna, including the Prater.

The hotel’s spacious suites are great for families, and its proximity to both the historic center and other attractions, such as Danube Island and the Prater, make it a top choice for those looking to stay near the heart of Vienna. Child minding services are also available. 

Mid-range: Novotel Wien City

Overlooking the Ringstrasse Boulevard, Novotel Wien City offers spacious family rooms at an affordable price. Within walking distance from St. Stephens’ Cathedral as well as the Danube River and the Prater, Novotel Wien City is conveniently located close to many of Vienna’s top attractions. There’s also a kids playground on site, or a fantastic playground at the nearby Prater Park. 

Apartments: Vienna Stay Apartments Castellez 1020

For families looking for the space and comfort that apartments provide, these apartments at Vienna Stay Castellez are ideal. Located right next to the Augarten, and only a short walk to the tram and metro, which provide easy access to the city centre and Prater, these apartments are a great choice for families. A fully equipped kitchen makes it ideal for preparing meals or snacks, or there are restaurants and shops nearby. The apartment has a separate sleeping area, as well as a sofa bed in the living room, and cots are available on request.

3. Neubau (7th District): The Museum District

Neubau, the 7th District, is known as the heart of art and culture, with a mix of modern art, historic architecture and trendy boutiques. The streets are filled with cafes, galleries and shops, and while it’s a busy area during the day, it’s quiet at night, making it a perfect area to stay for families.

Neubau is also home to some of the most important museums in the city, and just across from Museumsquartier is the Hofburg Palace and Innere Stadt. 

Why Neubau is perfect for families: 

  • A variety of cultural experiences, including art galleries and kid-friendly museums
  • Affordable accommodations and easy access to historic centre
  • Quiet area in the evenings

What to see and do in Neubau:

  • Explore MuseumsQuartier
  • Wander through the narrow, cobblestone streets of Spittelberg Quarter
  • Visit the ZOOM Kindermuseum, an interactive museum perfect for kids of all ages
outside view of the zoom kindermuseum in vienna - the letter "zoom" are displayed between arched windows on the first level and two large yellow seats in a w shape are in front of the building

Where to Stay in Neubau

Luxury: Hotel Sans Souci Wien

Situated directly across from the MuseumsQuartier, Hotel Sans Souci Wien is a great choice if you’re looking for a luxurious stay in Neubau. The hotel is not only known for its spacious rooms and elegant design, but also for its family-friendly amenities, including family suites with separate bedrooms, childminding services, and an indoor swimming pool. 

Mid-range: NH Wien City

Offering a blend of comfort and convenience, NH Wien City is an excellent choice for families exploring Vienna. Located on the well-known shopping street, Mariahilfer Strasse, the hotel provides easy access to a variety of shopping and dining options.

The rooms are spacious and most offer a separate sleeping and living area, and some include a kitchenette. The charming Spittelberg Quarter is close by, and it’s only a short walk to the MuseumsQuartier or the Haus des Meeres, which is one of the best things to do in Vienna with kids.

4. Landstrasse (3rd District): Quiet Charm Near the Center

Landstrasse, Vienna’s 3rd District, is known for its art and culture, including the impressive Belvedere Castle. Its central location and budget-friendly accommodations make it a great choice for families. While it’s a short walk from the historic centre, there are plenty of attractions nearby, and the metro provides easy access to other attractions. 

Why it’s perfect for families: 

  • Safe and quiet neighbourhood
  • Plenty of cultural attractions and historical sites to visit
  • Convenient public transportation options, making it easy to explore the rest of Vienna

What to see and do in Landstrasse:

  • Visit Belvedere Palace
  • Explore the Swiss Garden
  • See the Hundertwasserhaus
the impressive upper palace at belvedere palace in vienna - the palace is in landstrasse district - one of the best areas when wondering where to stay in vienna for families
Belvedere Palace

Where to Stay in Landstrasse

Luxury: Intercontinental Wien

Conveniently facing the Stadtpark, the Intercontinental Wien offers a luxurious stay with family-friendly amenities. Featuring spacious rooms, an on-site restaurant with a kid-friendly buffet and a cafe serving Viennese pastries, this is a great choice for families wishing to stay just outside of the city center. 

Mid-range: Lindner Hotel Am Belvedere

Perfectly suited near Belvedere Palace, Lindner Hotel Am Belvedere combines comfort with affordability. Its family-friendly rooms, including connecting rooms, welcoming atmosphere and easy access to Vienna’s main attractions make for a great stay. 

Apartments: Belvedere Suite

Perfect for families looking for a bit more space, the Belvedere Suite features 2 bedrooms, a fully equipped kitchen, a separate seating area and beautiful city views. It’s close to Belvedere Castle and only a few blocks from Stadtpark, which is a great playground in Vienna for kids.

two boys playing on a wood play structure at the stadtpark
the playground at the Stadtpark

5. Mariahilf (6th District): Vibrant and Creative

Mariahilf, Vienna’s 6th District, is renowned for its lively atmosphere and trendy boutiques. Here you’ll find Vienna’s largest shopping street, the famous Mariahilf Strasse, which reminded me of Königsallee in Dusseldorf,  as well as plenty of coffee shops and classic Viennese cafes. It’s one of the more affordable areas when deciding where to stay in Vienna for families, but it can be loud at night, as it has plenty of clubs and entertainment in the evening. 

Why Mariahilf is good for families: 

  • Diverse shopping opportunities, from international brands to local boutiques
  • One of the more affordable areas in Vienna
  • Easy access to the city’s attractions

What to see and do in Mariahilf:

  • Visit the Haus des Meeres, an aquarium located in a former WWI flak tower
  • Explore the Naschmarkt and pick up fresh produce, snacks and picnic items
  • Relax at Esterhazypark
an original flak tower from WWII is now the Haus des Meeres, a fun aquarium in vienna
Haus des Meeres

Where to Stay in Mariahilf

Hotel Leonardo Vienna: We love the Leonardo hotels – the first time we stayed at one was in Mannheim for the Christmas Markets, and we haven’t had a bad experience since. Unfortunately this Leonardo hotel was booked solid each time we visited Vienna, but if it’s anything like the other Leonardo hotels we’ve stayed in, you’ll have a great experience. Situated at the edge of Mariahilf, the Leonardo Vienna makes for a great base to explore Vienna. The hotel offers spacious family rooms and a welcoming atmosphere, ensuring you’ll have a great experience in Vienna. 

Hotel Beethoven Wien: Located on a quiet side street just steps from the Naschmarkt and only a 5-minute walk from the Ringstrasse, Hotel Beethoven Wien’s central location is great for families. This 4-star hotel offers elegant and quiet rooms in a historic building, and families will love the childminding services as well as the board games and puzzles available to borrow. 

Hotel Haydn: This was another hotel that we almost booked, but ultimately chose to stay closer to Karlsplatz. Hotel Haydn is a family-run hotel right on Mariahilf Strasse and only steps from the metro. We loved the location and the fact that you could book apartments with a kitchen, which I find helpful to save costs when travelling. There’s also an on-site restaurant if you don’t feel like making your own meals, or plenty of restaurants nearby to choose from. 

Other Areas to Stay in Vienna

Josefstadt

Josestadt may be one of Vienna’s smallest districts, but it is still worth considering. Its quiet streets are lined with historic buildings, cozy cafes, and boutique shops and while it’s not the most affordable area, the quiet neighbourhoods make it a great choice for families to stay in Vienna. 

Levante Rathaus Apartments: These apartments offer a mix of comfort and convenience for families. With fully equipped kitchens and spacious living areas, these apartments are ideal for longer stays or for families looking for a sense of home. The central location near historic sites and local cafes makes it a great choice for families looking for a memorable experience in Vienna. We almost stayed in these apartments, but ultimately decided to stay in the Innere Stadt, across from the Karlsplatz.

Near the Train Station

While the train station isn’t the best area of Vienna for families, it’s a convenient option, especially if you’re arriving or leaving by train.

a&o Wien Hauptbahnhof: Just a short walk from Vienna’s train station, the a&o Wien Hauptbahnhof is a great budget-friendly option. While it’s a well-known chain of hostels, it also offers family rooms, which feature bunk beds and a private ensuite bathroom. The communal areas feature study or work tables (great for homework), and a pool table, which my kids loved using.  There’s an excellent breakfast served each morning, and while it’s not in the best area of Vienna, it’s convenient to the train station and easy to access the main sights of the city.

We stayed here on our second time in Vienna, as we were only staying two nights after arriving from Prague and before catching an early morning train to Bratislava. It wasn’t the most luxurious accommodation, but it worked for a quick stop in Vienna!

Family rooms at a&o hostel
playing pool at the hostel

Where NOT to Stay in Vienna

Vienna is a really safe city to visit as a tourist, so there aren’t any dangerous areas to avoid. However, there are still a few areas where you might not want to book accommodations, especially when you’re looking for family accommodations in Vienna. 

Favoriten: not recommended for tourists, especially families

Ottakring: rougher area and not as family-friendly

Getting Around Vienna with Kids

Vienna is a really easy city to navigate with kids. The historic centre is easily walkable and has many pedestrian-only areas.

Outside of the historic centre, the public transportation system makes it easy to access the other sights in Vienna. The U-Bahn (metro), trams and buses are convenient for reaching all major attractions, and children under the age of six travel for free.

For families, consider purchasing the Vienna Card, which offers unlimited travel for 24, 48 or 72 hours, as well as discounts at many attractions. 

Best Time to Visit Vienna with Kids

Vienna is a fantastic city to visit year-round. The summer months, July and August, are peak months for visitors, and accommodation prices will be high.

During the Spring, April to June, and Fall, September to November, the city sees fewer crowds, the weather is still pleasant and accommodations are more readily available.

The winter season, especially in December, is magical and Vienna’s Christmas Markets are some of the best in Europe, however, it’s best to book accommodations early. 

vienna's largest christmas market at the rathaus, or city hall

FAQs for Families Traveling to Vienna

Which area of Vienna is best to stay in?

The Innere Stadt is the best place to stay in Vienna for families who are visiting for the first time. Staying in this area offers easy access to Vienna’s major historical sites and there are plenty of options for shopping and dining, as well as some of the best family hotels in Vienna. 

Where to avoid staying in Vienna?

While Vienna is generally considered safe, there are some areas of the city which aren’t recommended for families. Favoriten, or 10th district, is not recommended for tourists, especially families and Ottakring, the 16th district, is a rougher area and not as family-friendly as other areas in Vienna.

How many days do you need in Vienna?

We recommend spending 3 or 4 days in Vienna to explore the best of the city. While you can certainly see the highlights if you have less time, four days in Vienna allows you to see the main sights, like Hofburg Palace, Schonbrunn Palace, St. Stephen’s Cathedral, and the State Opera, as well as do some family activities.

Where is the best place to stay in Vienna for Christmas Markets?

The Rathausplatz, where Vienna’s most famous Christmas Market takes places, is a fantastic area to stay. Accommodations in the Innere Stadt are within walking distance to not only the Rathausplatz, but also to several other Christmas markets scattered around the city. We stayed at KH Opera Apartments, opposite the Karlsriche, and had a fantastic view of the Christmas markets from our window.

Conclusion: Where to Stay in Vienna for Families 

Deciding where to stay in Vienna for families can be overwhelming, but choosing the right location can make or break your family’s travel experience.

Staying in the Innere Stadt, Leopoldstadt or Landstrasse are all great options, as Vienna’s main attractions are within easy reach. These districts are safe for families and also offer family-friendly amenities, like parks and playgrounds, nearby, which are great to explore after, or before, a day of sightseeing with kids.

Neubau and Mariahilf are also great areas for families to stay in Vienna, and offer a quieter neighbourhood to relax in after a day of exploring.

Whichever of these Vienna family hotels and apartments you choose to stay in, you’re sure to have a memorable time exploring this fantastic city!

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For more inspiration and tips on travel in Austria and Central Europe, be sure to read these posts:

Erin Martin is the founder and sole writer for Wanderlust with Kids. Together with her twin boys, they have travelled to over 20 countries and five provinces within Canada. Erin is responsible for planning and facilitating all of her family's travel itineraries and adventures, whether locally or internationally. An explorer at heart, Erin aims to make any travel adventure kid-friendly and shares all her favourite family-friendly things to do, both in Canada and abroad.