Viennese coffeehouse culture is so unique that it has even been designated an intangible UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its origins are shrouded in myth. Legend has it that after the Second Turkish Siege of 1683, sacks of coffee were left behind—and a certain Kolschitzky opened Vienna’s first coffeehouse.
Historically speaking, this isn’t entirely accurate, but it’s an incredibly charming story. Today, these time-honored institutions are far more than just cafés. They serve as an extension of the Viennese living room, where you can wonderfully lose track of time over a Melange. Here are our top 9 picks for Viennese coffeehouse culture.
Café Ritter
The legendary Café Ritter on Mariahilfer Straße is a true Viennese original. Since 1867, it has been enchanting guests with its traditional ambiance, red upholstered armchairs, and excellent Melange. Anyone looking to experience authentic coffeehouse culture in the heart of the city will find the perfect retreat for sipping coffee and reading the newspaper in this historic Viennese gem.
Café Schwarzenberg
The legendary Café Schwarzenberg on Vienna’s Ringstrasse is a true original. Since 1861, the oldest café on the Ringstrasse has been delighting guests with its magnificent ambiance, traditional coffee specialties, and exquisite pastries. Anyone who wants to experience vibrant Viennese coffeehouse culture up close and immerse themselves in the city’s history will find the perfect moment of indulgence here.
Café Hawelka
The legendary Café Hawelka in the heart of Vienna is a true cult destination. Since 1939, this historic artists’ haunt has captivated visitors with its unmistakable, rustic Old Viennese charm. Anyone looking to soak up authentic coffeehouse culture and sample the world-famous, freshly baked Buchteln will find the perfect, nostalgic retreat at this Viennese institution.
Café Prückel
Café Prückel on Vienna’s Stubenring is an absolute cult favorite. Since 1903, the coffeehouse has delighted visitors with its unique 1950s-style design and traditional coffee specialties. Anyone looking to experience authentic Viennese coffeehouse culture with a nostalgic retro flair will find the perfect retreat in this lively gathering spot.
Café Sperl
The time-honored Café Sperl in Vienna’s Mariahilf district is an absolute cult favorite. Since 1880, this historic, landmark-protected coffeehouse has been delighting guests with its magnificent historic ambiance, red velvet booths, and excellent coffee specialties. Anyone who wants to experience authentic Viennese coffeehouse culture up close, just as it was a hundred years ago, will find the perfect, nostalgic retreat in this historic coffeehouse.
Café Jelinek
The time-honored Café Jelinek in Vienna’s Mariahilf district is an absolute cult favorite. Since 1910, this charming coffeehouse has been delighting guests with its unmistakable Old Viennese flair, cozy tiled stove, and homemade pastries. Anyone looking to experience authentic Viennese coffeehouse culture away from the hustle and bustle will find the perfect, nostalgic retreat in this historic coffeehouse.
Café Eiles
The elegant Café Eiles in Vienna’s Josefstadt district is an absolute cult favorite. Since 1840, this historic, landmark-protected coffeehouse has been delighting guests with its inviting old-Viennese charm, classic coffee specialties, and Viennese cuisine. Anyone looking to experience authentic coffeehouse culture in the heart of the artists’ quarter will find the perfect, nostalgic retreat in this historic coffeehouse.
Café Goldegg
The time-honored Café Goldegg near Vienna’s main train station is an absolute cult favorite. Since 1910, this historic, protected coffeehouse has delighted visitors with its magnificent Art Nouveau ambiance, plush green velvet booths, and classic specialties. Anyone looking to experience authentic Viennese coffeehouse culture in a setting steeped in history will find the perfect, nostalgic retreat in this charming coffeehouse.
Café Savoy
Café Savoy on Vienna’s Linke Wienzeile is an absolute cult favorite. Since 1896, this historic coffeehouse has been delighting visitors with its opulent, mirror-filled architecture, exceptionally friendly service, and lively atmosphere. Anyone looking to experience authentic Viennese coffeehouse culture in the heart of the colorful Naschmarkt district will find the perfect, nostalgic retreat in this charming coffeehouse.
