As a popular tourist destination, Vienna has a vast choice of hotels and there are several varied places to stay. The focus is generally on high quality hotels in the centre of Vienna while family-friendly places are also on the table.

The good thing about staying in Vienna is that the public transport is extensive and efficient so if you haven't got the means for staying right in the thick of it in the most charming place, you can stay a little farther out but still be well based.

Like any good European capital, Vienna has its Hiltons, Holiday Inns, Sofitels, and Best Westerns, and prices are reasonable for these top-end places. There are many interesting hotels in popular areas, with the Innere Stadt (Inner City) being the most popular Vienna hotel area.

Top hotels in the inner city include: the Grand Hotel Wien, Hotel Bristol, Hotel Imperial, Hotel Sacher Wien, Le Meridien Vienna, Palais Coburg, and Hotel Residenz. The historic Hotel Imperial is particularly fine as it has been in operation for years. One of the best value Vienna hotels for families is the Hotel Kärntnerhof, near St Stephan's Cathedral. It has good rooms, affordable prices and excellent service.

Staying anywhere within the Ringstrasse (the main ring road) of Vienna is a good idea as there are hundreds of hotels on offer, including dozens of top-end places. The closer to the centre you get, the more the price goes up along with the higher concentration of luxury hotels.

The Central District (Vienna 1010) is where it's at in Vienna hotel-wise. It is the heart of town and features the best range of Vienna hotels along with the bulk of the attractions. There is also excellent public transport in this area and you have access to the best shopping, eating and nightlife.

To be out of the way of the general din and crowds, consider staying out in the suburbs of Schönbrunn or Grinzing. Schönbrunn, of course, has the Schönbrunn Palace, and hotels around this area generally have fantastic surroundings. You will also save when staying outside the inner city.

There are not that many business type hotels for those who wish to stay near the airport, with the NH Hotel Wien Schwechat on the airport grounds being the main option. Nearby villages within reach of the hotel and central Vienna do have many top-end hotel options, however.