Best Luxury Hotels in Vienna

Housed in a building originally designed for the 1873 World Exhibition, the Palais Hansen is certainly one of the city's top historic hotels -- but updates that have included everything from high-tech in-room amenities (such as iPad controllers) to the additional of a sleek spa and fitness center -- keep it thoroughly modern as well. Not only is it the only property on our list that boasts a full five pearls, but it also is the only one with a Michelin-starred restaurant. Rooms are accordingly luxe, and the hotel is just a couple blocks from the Danube River.

Hotel Imperial Vienna was the private residence of an Austrian prince before it became a hotel, and even the smallest rooms here have a palatial ambiance. Suites, however, go above and beyond by coming with personal butlers who will even tag along during shopping trips to help with carrying bags. Other standout features include a great restaurant and cafe, and beautiful event spaces. It comes in behind Palais Hansen on our list as it lacks and spa, and rooms don't have quite as up-to-date technology.

Like Palais Hansen and Hotel Imperial, Hotel Bristol has a convenient location -- across from the State Opera -- and luxe interiors that are reminiscent of the property's rich past. Beautiful artwork and antiques can be found throughout; while most rooms feature a classic style, all have been updated with amenities such as flat-screen TVs and Wi-Fi (for a fee). Some have marble bathrooms and/or balconies. Property highlights include a chic bar and beautiful fine-dining restaurant.

An outpost of the high-end Le Meridien brand, this hotel has a more modern aesthetic than our top three luxury picks. While it does have an indoor pool (which the other three lack), Le Meridien Vienna comes in fourth on our list since its on-site dining isn't quite as impressive -- and interiors aren't quite as opulent. Nonetheless, this stylish spot features spacious rooms with modern bathrooms (some also have panoramic views), a nice bar, and a 24-hour fitness center.

Blending classic 19th-century elements with sleek modern decor, The Ring truly is "Vienna's Casual Luxury Hotel." Rooms don't feel quite as design-focused as those at our top four picks, but they are nonetheless luxurious, with heated bathroom floors and espresso machines. The fitness center may be small, but it's thoroughly modern, and an on-site wine cellar with private tastings is a nice perk.

DO & CO Hotel, housed in the upper floors of a postmodern landmark building, boasts some amazing views from its perch overlooking St. Stephens Square in the heart of Vienna. This boutique property lacks a fitness center and spa, but it is home to a renowned restaurant and a lovely rooftop terrace. Modern rooms include private wine bars and high-quality in-room entertainment.

Another boutique property in a notable building, Hotel Topazz stands out for gorgeous rooms, defined by windowsill seating, marble-and-chrome bathrooms, and high-tech amenities. The hotel is also home to a Privilege Club, but unlike at many hotels with similar offerings, it's open to all hotel guests -- and includes iPads on request and minibars stocked with free goodies. Hotel Topazz can't top DO & CO because it lacks a full restaurant, although it does offer a delicious breakfast (for a fee).

The Guesthouse Vienna opened in 2013 and features apartment-like rooms with streamlined furniture, bathrooms with heated towel racks, and minibars stocked with various freebies, including wine. Standard rooms lack desks, but it's certainly worth comparing rates between here and Hotel Topazz; The Guesthouse likely offers more bang for your buck, particularly for a luxury property. The on-site restaurant, popular among locals and guests, is also a highlight.

A small, less fussy property, the Hollmann may feature simple (yet inviting) decor -- but it makes our list for its extensive on-site offerings, despite only having 25 modern rooms. Guests of this boutique will have to go elsewhere for a business center and/or restaurant (the affiliated Hollman Salon restaurant is right around the corner), but this property is home to a spa, a small movie theater, and a lovely garden. Freebies include daily breakfast, afternoon drinks and snacks, and in-room fruit plates.