The 7 best traditional Viennese cafés

History and gastronomy lover, are you wondering which is the oldest café in Vienna? Discover the 7 best traditional Viennese cafes and immerse yourself in Austrian elegance.

Vienna, capital of Austria, is a city where coffee culture is listed as a UNESCO intangible cultural heritage. The cobbled streets, period buildings and Mozart melodies in the background, it is in this setting that Viennese cafés flourished. They have thus become institutions prized by both locals and travelers in search of authenticity. When you enter one of these establishments, you are doing much more than just having a coffee break. You immerse yourself in an important part of Viennese culture.

This guide was designed to transport you through the plumes of steam from espresso machines and the clatter of spoons against porcelain cups. We are going to present to you the 7 best traditional Viennese cafes. Discover emblematic places where history, culture and exquisite flavors combine. Enjoy a real Viennese coffee in a setting that has preserved its old-world charm. Prepare yourself to live a unique experience.

Café Sacher: the origin of sachertorte, a sweet tradition

Why we selected it: The “Sacher” café, founded in 1876, represents Viennese heritage. Its creator, Eduard Sacher, is directly associated with the invention of Sachertorte. Visiting this illustrious café is a unique chance to taste this authentic chocolate cake, a treasure of Austrian pastry, in its original cradle.

To know more : The “Sacher” café is a key place in Vienna for those who want to experience the Austrian tradition. This café is located in the “Sacher” hotel, just opposite the Opera. It is known for its impressive history. Inside this café, discover elegant decor with shiny chandeliers, red sofas and dark woodwork. Enjoy a classic and warm atmosphere.

The specialty of the “Sacher” coffee is the famous Sachertortea chocolate cake with a secret recipe from 1832. The place is elegant and very attached to the tradition of Viennese cafés. As it is often crowded, consider reserving a table.

Diglas, a typical Austrian café

Why we selected it: The “Diglas” café, nestled in the heart of Vienna since 1875, embodies the soul of Viennese cafés. Its welcoming red benches and melodious piano warm up the atmosphere. Its fame crosses the streets of the city, carried by the excellence and tradition of its homemade pastries. It’s a must-see for foodies.

To know more : “Diglas”, one of the oldest traditional Viennese cafés, is located at 10 Wollzeile, right in the historic center. It is very close to the cathedral Stefansdom. It is an ideal place to taste the delicious Viennese pastries and cakes that have made it famous.

The prices here are affordable, which makes this cafe popular with customers of all ages. Among the specialties, don’t miss there Bananenschnittea banana dessert, and the Scheiterhaufena kind of apple French toast. Each tour offers an experience of authentic traditional flavors.

Hawelka, a famous landmark in Vienna

Why we selected it: The “Hawelka” café immerses you in the soul of the 1930s. Its timeless decor with its woodwork and chandeliers create a warm atmosphere. Savor the authenticity of a place brought to life by its loyal customers. Enjoy homemade cakes and a coffee renowned for its excellence.

To know more : The “Hawelka” café is a traditional Viennese café and a must-visit place for those who love culture and history. It opened in 1939 and stepping inside will transport you to another era. Immerse yourself in an atmosphere of yesteryear, in the middle of a quiet side street in the historic city center of Vienna. The café has retained its original look and ambiancecreating a unique place where the past meets the present.

The “Hawelka” café is located in the lively district of Neubau, famous for its artistic and cultural dynamism. He became a meeting place for thinkers and creators from Vienna from the 60s and 70s. Great figures such as writers, poets, painters, actors and art critics gathered there. Celebrities, such as Andy Warhol, Elias Canetti or Friedensreich Hundertwasser, were attracted by this pearl of Viennese culture, which remained authentic and aloof.

Landtmann, a jewel of the city center

Why we selected it: The “Landtmann” café shines with its timeless elegance. Its woodwork and large period mirrors evoke the splendor of the 1920s. Ideally positioned on the Ring Viennese, it offers a stunning views of iconic buildings such as the Burgtheater and the Town Hall. Its vast terrace and winter garden invite you to savor the charm of Vienna in all seasons.

To know more : The “Landtmann” café has been an iconic location since 1873 and was opened by Franz Landtmann. It is a classic example of the elegance of traditional Vienna cafés. The city’s elite, including figures from politics, economics and culture, have always gathered there. Celebrities like Sigmund Freud, Gustav Mahler and Arthur Schnitzler often went there, which reinforced its prestigious image. Near the town hall and parliament, the café still attracts an elegant clientele, including businessmen and politicians.

The “Landtmann” café is also known for its good Viennese cuisine. Taste the famous tart Sachertorteapple struddel and a Wiener Mix. These are staples of traditional Viennese café culture.

Demel: pastries and chocolates of excellence

Why we selected it: “Demel” stands out as a Viennese jewel, preserving its soul since 1786. Its rococo frame captures the essence of its imperial heritage. The woodwork, chandeliers and period furniture bear witness to its historic role as a court pastry shop. Enjoy an authentic and timeless experience.

To know more : In the chic district of Kohlmarkt, a pedestrian area known for its elegance, discover one of the best traditional Viennese cafés. This café opened in 1786 near the Michaelerplatz and moved to Kohlmarkt in 1888. Here, enjoy a good coffee and classic Viennese pastriesas the Sachertortea famous chocolate cake or the Kaiserschmarrn.

The café attracts gourmets with its take-away pastries and chocolates, but also passers-by with its beautiful windows showing sugar creations. Also watch the pastry chefs work in the open kitchen with glass walls.

Café Central, in the heart of Vienna

Why we selected it: The “Central” café in Vienna, founded in 1876, is famous for its timeless splendor. Her vast room decorated with Renaissance frescoes cover its majestic ceilings. Surrounded by elegant colonnades and lit by imposing chandeliers, the period furniture gives the place a historic and refined atmosphere.

To know more : Cafe “Central” is a popular venue in Vienna, located in the lively district of Herrengasse. It is an elegant and historic cafe. When you enter, discover a magnificent decor reminiscent of an old palace, filled with art and history. Savor Viennese specialties like Sachertorte and apple strudelhighly appreciated by customers.

Opened in 1876 by Victor Renner, the building reflects the neo-renaissance style. Since then, it has attracted influential people, thinkers, politicians, artists and even the famous psychoanalyst Freud. For those who love to read, enjoy a library of more than 3000 books. It is open to anyone who wants to relax and read in this place full of history.

Frauenhuber, a historic café

Why we selected it: The “Frauenhuber” café, founded in 1824, is a jewel of Viennese history. Immerse yourself in the tradition of the city’s famous cafés. With its retro charm and peaceful atmosphere, it stands out as an oasis of tranquility and authenticity, far from the tourist hustle and bustle.

To know more : The “Frauenhuber” is a famous traditional Viennese café that has existed since 1824. It is the oldest café in the city, still run by the same family. People come there to enjoy THE Buchtelna local and popular sweet. The café is on a picturesque old street, located between Vienna’s grand cathedral and the opulent opera house.

In addition, the “Frauenhuber” is near the Kartner Strasse, a popular shopping street, which attracts even more visitors. This cafe has a special atmosphere thanks to its loyal customers of all ages coming from all over Vienna. This popularity shows how important traditional cafés are in Viennese life and culture.

You have now discovered the 7 best traditional cafes in the Austrian capital, but this is just one selection among many. Do you have any other addresses to share with us in the comments? So, which traditional Viennese coffee will you try first to fully experience this unique experience?