Hidden Gems in Historic Cities

At the heart of Vienna, in the cultural center of the Seventh District, the Altstadt Vienna stands as an oasis of creativity. Set in a stately patrician house in the Spittelberg, this hotel brings together the contrasts that make Vienna so fascinating – from the opulence of the imperial era to the modern art scene. Each of the 62 rooms tells its own story, designed both by world-renowned architects and artists. This house thrives on the atmosphere of Vienna, with tradition meeting contemporary style. It is a retreat for individualists who feel at home in this unique manifestation of Viennese Gemütlichkeit.

The Altstadt Vienna is more than just a hotel – it is an homage to the city itself. Housed in a former city palace built in 1902 in the style of the Ringstrasse, it has become a refuge for art and the Viennese lifestyle. The house’s history dates back to an industrialist of the Habsburg monarchy, who used it for his personal exhibitions. Later, the building became Pension Bellaria, until Otto E. Wiesenthal discovered it in 1991 and transformed it into the Altstadt Vienna of today. Now, art lovers and travelers alike find themselves utterly at home here.

Each of the 62 rooms and suites is a work of art unto itself. Designed by renowned architects such as Matteo Thun or creative minds like fashion designer Atil Kutoglu, each room reflects the diversity of Vienna. Art collections from contemporary artists adorn the walls, and the iconic Viennese Gemütlichkeit permeates every detail. The Altstadt Vienna offers not just stylish comfort, but also an extraordinary journey through Vienna’s artistic epochs.

The Altstadt Vienna is not only an architectural gem but also the perfect starting point to explore the city’s culinary diversity. Just a stone’s throw away is the newly opened Collina am Berg restaurant. Here, seasonal cuisine of the highest quality is served, often featuring wild game and regional products – a testament to the connection between nature and urban elegance that defines the Seventh District and its culture. Nearby, you will discover the Weinskandal Rundbar, a haven for lovers of natural wines.

As one of Vienna’s oldest hotels, the König von Ungarn bears its name for a reason. During the Austro-Hungarian monarchy, it accommodated Hungarian nobles and magnates who resided in luxurious apartments year round. In fact, some guests stayed for decades, and their stories can still be felt within the historic walls. Famous personalities such as Franz Kafka, Peter Handke, and Alfred Brendel were likewise amongst the guests. That said, this hotel is more than just a place to stay – it is a living piece of Viennese history.

The 44 rooms and suites, including charming maisonettes on two floors and an exclusive penthouse suite with view of St. Stephen’s Cathedral, are each uniquely designed. Each room is one of a kind, combining Viennese elegance with modern comforts. Guests access their rooms via the characteristic Pawlatschen walkway overlooking the idyllic courtyard, experiencing a fascinating interplay of classical and modern. Here, every guest finds their personal haven, nestled within the atmosphere of a historic establishment.

Begin your day with a lavish breakfast enjoyed in the vaulted "Mozartstüberl," part of the adjacent Mozarthaus, where Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart lived from 1784 to 1787 and composed works like "The Marriage of Figaro." From 3 p.m., the bar in the atrium invites you to partake in aperitifs and snacks. The central location of the hotel puts Vienna’s cultural treasures right at your doorstep: A short stroll takes you directly to St. Stephen's Cathedral, the State Opera, or the city’s renowned museums. Experience the pulsating life of Vienna and be enchanted by the uniqueness of the city.

This suite offers an exceptional blend of historical charm and modern comfort. Two magnificent bedrooms, a salon, and a spacious living room invite guests to reside as the emperor once did. The rooms, furnished with the finest amenities and luxurious details, evoke the lifestyle of the Habsburgs, while top-notch service, overseen by the nearby Parkhotel Schönbrunn, ensures the utmost comfort.

With exclusive access to the suite, guests are able to experience the palace from a unique perspective: after dusk, when the tourists are all gone, and the silence sets in. Private access to the suite is via the historic stairways, with guests also able to enjoy an optional Fiaker ride, a private palace tour, or an Imperial Breakfast right there in the suite itself. With every step through these halls, guests feel the magic of a past era, which is still very much alive here in Vienna.

Nestled amid the grand landscape of Salzburg, Schloss Leopoldskron exudes timeless elegance. Surrounded by a seven-hectare park and situated next to a small, idyllic lake, this Schloss combines historical grandeur with breathtaking nature. The Baroque facades reflect in the still water, while the view of Hohensalzburg Fortress transports visitors to another time. Here, history becomes tangible, and every corner of the estate tells of Salzburg’s glorious past.

Built in 1736 at the behest of Salzburg’s Prince-Archbishop Leopold Anton Freiherr von Firmian, the palace was long the family seat. It survived various owners, art collectors, and revolutions before being purchased by theater impresario Max Reinhardt in 1918. He breathed new life into the crumbling estate, turning it into a cultural hub for art and theater. Confiscated during World War II, it remained Reinhardt’s lost paradise, though its heart continued to beat unabated.

With Max Reinhardt, Schloss Leopoldskron experienced a renaissance as a center of art. Founder of the Salzburg Festival, he made it a stage for extraordinary theatrical productions, where the opulent rooms themselves became part of the performances. The elaborate stucco ceilings, Venetian salons, and intimate library served as the backdrop for countless creative minds, shaping the unique spirit of the house, which is still palpable today.

Away from the hustle and bustle and yet just minutes from the historic district, Schloss Leopoldskron offers a luxurious retreat. With 55 rooms in the adjacent Meierhof and 12 suites in the Schloss itself, the estate invites guests to experience a world of peace and inspiration. Its history, exclusive spaces, and idyllic setting make it an unparalleled experience for guests seeking a unique blend of culture and relaxation.

In the heart of Trenčín, directly beneath the imposing medieval castle, stands Hotel Elizabeth, a masterpiece of Jugendstil architecture. Built by Baron Armin Popper, the hotel combines the charm of the past with modern comforts. The 78 luxurious rooms offer breathtaking views of both the castle and the nearly 2,000-year-old Roman inscription carved into the castle rock. The hotel is a place of serenity and elegance – a symbol of the fusion of history and modernity.

Opened in 1902 as "Erszebet Szalo," the hotel is deeply rooted in Trenčín’s history. Its intricate Jugendstil architecture was combined with modern elements during extensive renovations from 2010 to 2012 so as to offer guests the highest level of comfort possible. Yet the historical charm remains ever-present, earning the hotel numerous awards – not just for its design, but also its excellence in preserving cultural heritage.

In addition to its unique atmosphere, the hotel also offers a luxurious wellness center with a hydro-massage pool and four different saunas, promising extraordinary relaxation. The spacious spa area and stunning views of the surrounding nature make Hotel Elizabeth a perfect retreat for those seeking complete rejuvenation. The perfect combination of culture and relaxation lends this hotel a sense of timeless elegance.

The restaurant of Hotel Elizabeth treats its guests to first-class regional and international cuisine. Out on the summer terrace, guests can admire the Roman inscription whilst enjoying an exquisite meal. A stroll through Trenčín’s Old Town, a visit to the mighty castle, or an excursion to the nearby Pohoda music festival afford numerous opportunities to experience the cultural and historical richness of the region.

In the heart of Kufstein stands Hotel Platzhirsch, a historic town house that has been lovingly brought back to life by the Drastil family. Here, centuries-old architecture meets contemporary comforts, blending tradition with innovation. The sensitive renovation has hit a chord, impressing even big city hotels. A Viennese coffeehouse with its own roastery brings the charm of the Austrian capital to this tranquil town on the green River Inn.

With the utmost care, the Drastil family renovated this historic hotel in the Old Town. Their goal wasn’t just to preserve the city’s heritage but also to create a modern, charming boutique hotel. Each of the 15 individually designed rooms and suites bears the unmistakable charm of the old building, yet combined with contemporary design. This blend of traditional and modern makes Hotel Platzhirsch a very special retreat in Kufstein.

The in-house Viennese coffeehouse at Hotel Platzhirsch is a highlight for coffee lovers. The Drastil family has invested in their own coffee roastery, offering the finest coffee compositions, freshly roasted right there in the heart of the hotel. The flair of a traditional Viennese coffeehouse is paired with modern service, adding an extra dimension of indulgence to any stay. And new: The Talent Forge  – on selected evenings, young culinary talents are invited to create and serve fine dishes at Hotel Platzhirsch.

Stadthaus Goldener Hirsch, now the Platzhirsch, looks back on a long history. Once a tavern, sausage factory, and even a cinema, the building has been adapted over the centuries. Today, it is a harmonious ensemble of historical walls and contemporary conveniences. The historic charm of the Old Town is skillfully combined with the modern elegance of the new building.

With boundless attention to detail, the Mack family has successfully renovated Hotel Alte Post. Historical walls meet modern, natural materials that honor the house’s history while creating a contemporary feel-good experience. The 51 individually designed rooms exude warmth and comfort, while spacious event rooms and a flourishing farmhouse garden provide a place of peace and inspiration.

The hotel’s own restaurant, the Hebelstube, is committed to sustainability and regionality. Their ambitious cuisine showcases the treasures of the Markgräflerland, with every ingredient carefully selected. From the finest wines of the region to seasonal dishes, nature and culinary delights combine to create a truly unique experience.

Hotel Alte Post lies in one of the most beautiful wine regions in Germany. The best Baden grapes grow right here, with viticulture deeply rooted in the region’s history. The in-house wine cellar features a fine selection of local wines, complementing the regional cuisine to perfection.

For decades, the Alte Post in Müllheim has been setting new standards when it comes to environmental protection. Awarded as Germany’s first Eco Hotel in 1991, the hotel demonstrates how tradition and innovation are indeed able to harmonize. With a clear focus on sustainability, the hotel has banned saltwater fish from its organic restaurant, opting for regional alternatives instead. All construction projects are carried out with environmental considerations in mind: native woods, regional craftsmanship, and social projects shape the concept. Visionary renovations, such as a solar power system and CO2-neutral technologies, emphasize the hotel’s pioneering spirit. The goal is to be completely CO2-neutral by 2029, a project advanced by ambitious initiatives such as a woodchip heating system, paperless admin procedures, and a transition to electric vehicles.