Vienna, a city rich in history and culture, is famous for its numerous cafés, which have been the heart of its social life for centuries. It was here, in these elegant premises, that intellectuals, artists and writers met to discuss the most important issues of their times. Walking through the narrow streets and spacious squares, you can come across cafes with a unique atmosphere and decor that attract both residents and tourists. It is worth stopping for a moment, ordering aromatic coffee and enjoying the unique atmosphere of these places. But now the most important question "where?"
Discover with us:
1. Café Central
The sheer grandeur of Café Central, established in 1876, makes it well worth queuing for, as it was a popular hangout among intellectuals in turn-of-the-century Vienna. Easily spotted because of the queues that always seem to snake out from the entrance, it is possibly the most famous of the Vienna coffee houses and much loved by tourists. Visitors can order a Melange, a Viennese take on a cappuccino, choose a cake from the stand, and laze the afternoon away under the pseudo-Gothic vaulted ceilings of the Palais Ferstel. The historic ambiance of this ground floor location adds to its charm, making it a must-visit spot in Vienna.
2. Café Schwarzenberg
The oldest café on the Ringstrasse, stands out as one of Vienna’s most luxurious coffee houses. Its marble and wood-panelled interior suffered severe damage during the Soviet occupation post-war, only undergoing restoration in 1979. Known for its variety of unique Viennese coffees, the highlight remains the hot chocolate 'Alt Wiener Art', garnished with cinnamon, vanilla, and whipped cream. The café's darker decor adds charm, making it ideal for dreary days, while views of old town architecture enhance the appeal of securing a window seat.
3. Café Prückel
First opened in 1903, the delightfully retro Café Prückel has remained faithful to its ’50s restyling by Oswald Haerdtl, blending Art Nouveau and 1950s “Mrs Maisel” design. Favoured by students from the nearby University of Applied Arts, it even has a theatre in the basement, reflecting the long association between coffee houses and the arts. In summer, outdoor seating lines the side of the Prückel, allowing patrons to enjoy fresh air along with traditional Viennese coffee, pastries, and Wiener schnitzel. Live piano music every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday evening adds to its charm, making it a quintessential Viennese experience.
4. Café Hawelka
Located just off Vienna's main pedestrian shopping street, the Graben, offers a cozy and informal atmosphere with slightly worn upholstery and well-used furniture, resembling a relaxed living room rather than a formal café. During its heyday in the '60s and '70s, it was a popular meeting place for Vienna's art scene, frequented by celebrities like Andy Warhol. The café is famously celebrated in Vienna's cultural history, immortalized in the song "Jö Schau" by Georg Danzer. Over the years, it has hosted notable guests including Falco, Andy Warhol, Klaus Maria Brandauer, and Peter Ustinov, making it a beloved spot known for its nostalgic comfort. Situated centrally between Stephansdom cathedral and the Hofburg palace, Café Hawelka remains a cherished cultural landmark in Vienna.
5. Café Landtmann
Dating back to 1873 and situated on Vienna's prestigious Ringstrasse, is a longstanding favorite among intellectuals, politicians, and theater enthusiasts. Known for its upscale ambiance, impeccable service, and mandatory cloakroom policy, it offers spacious interiors and a charming terrace overlooking the Burgtheater in summer. As the flagship café of a renowned group, it also features a large, sheltered outdoor area and hosts a festive Christmas tree during the holidays. Notably, Café Landtmann tempts visitors with a delectable array of pastries from its own exceptional patisserie, making it a paradise for dessert aficionados.
We have reached the end of this article on the Underwater Adventures in Vienna. If you are visiting Vienna, make sure to read our previous blogs. To continue discovering more hidden gems and captivating destinations, stay tuned for more articles on our website. Follow us @thewalkingparrot to be continuously updated on new releases and join us as we embark on new adventures. We will be back soon with a new article! If you're visiting Lisbon, make sure to try our Fado, Food, and Wine tour!
Comments