Vienna Food Guide: What And Where To Eat in Wien

by Emily | posted in: Austria, Europe Food Guide | 0

Last updated on October 19th, 2024

Eating like a local! The exclusive Vienna food guide on where and what to eat in Vienna. Perfect for your holiday itinerary planning to Vienna.

Vienna offers a wide range of food that you should try when you visit the city. The most popular are Wiener schnitzel, Tafelspitz, and mouth-watering juicy spare ribs. Well, another not to be missed in Vienna is its delicious pastries and dessert! Sacher Torte, Apfelstrudel, Kaiserschmarrn are a perfect match with a cup of Viennese coffee.

While it can be tough to decide what to eat in Vienna if you have a limited two or three days in Vienna. In this article, you will check out the best Austria food and restaurant that you simply must eat in Vienna. And the Vienna dishes are what make the city more special and unique.

Table of Contents

Vienna Food Guide: What To Eat in Vienna

Hopefully, our Ultimate Top 10 Viennese Foods can give you a hint for the taste of Vienna. Vienna’s rich history and old tradition had a great impact on the city’s culinary legacy. While most above all recommended is must try in town.

What to eat in Vienna? For the best Vienna foodie hunt please try the best Vienna food listed as much as you can. From classic schnitzel, goulash, tafelspitz; must eat dessert like apfelstrudel, sachertorte with Viennese coffee; or the tender pork ribs. We suggest you try out at least some of our Ultimate Top 10 Viennese Foods listed down. Otherwise, your Vienna itinerary is incomplete without being packed with one of the local flavors. Happy travel to Vienna!

Vienna Food Guide (Top 10 Vienna Must Eat Food)

Wiener Schnitzel
Kaiserschmarrn
Sachertorte
Apple strudel / Apfelstrudel
Juicy Spare Ribs
Tafelspitz
Viennese Coffee
Naschmarkt’s Food (Vienna Local Food Market)
Viennese Goulash
Manner Wafer

Pro Tips: If you’re planning a trip to Vienna, then be sure to check out our detailed Vienna itinerary with detailed guide and budget tips. It’ll have all the information you need – like which area to stay, what to do, how to get around, etc. – to help you plan your trip.

Vienna On Budget: One Day Itinerary Travel Guide Blog

When looking for the best price and biggest selection of hotels in Vienna, we recommended below:

We highly recommended the Motel One Wien-Hauptbahnhof. The property is located right next to Vienna’s Main Train Station. It is very convenient as tram, metro, and bus stations in 1-2 minutes walking. Added, cafes and supermarket is located right in the same building or nearby. A popular pick!

Hotel Kaiserhof Wien offers luxury at reasonable price accommodation stay in Vienna. It located in a quiet side street of Vienna and within walking distance to every sign in Vienna city center.

More Accommodation Options: Where To Stay in Vienna: Best Areas and Wien Hotels

Travel Tips: When looking for the best price and biggest selection of hotels in Vienna check prices for Vienna Best Hotel from Booking.com. We found they are the best option and have a great cancelation policy.

Best overall hotel in Vienna – Hotel Kaiserhof Wien. It offers luxury at reasonable price accommodation stay in Vienna. It located in a quiet side street of Vienna and within walking distance to every sign in Vienna city center.

Wiener Schnitzel

Top of the Vienna must eat food. Wiener schnitzel is one of Austria’s national dishes and mostly all restaurants and eateries will be served this dish. It is made from a thin cutlet of veal, pork, or chicken; breadcrumbs and pan-fried in butter or oil. Normally served with a slide of lemon and potatoes, makes an excellent accompaniment. You can’t miss this dish when visiting Vienna.

Best schnitzel in Vienna: The most famous Figlmüller, founded over 110 years ago served the biggest schnitzel in town. The portion for the schnitzel in Figlmüller is the size of a plate they’re served on! There are two Figlmüller branches nearby; Bäckerstraße and Wollzeile. Schnitzelwirt (Neubaugasse 52) is another great choice for an enormous portion of schnitzel at a reasonable price.

Kaiserschmarrn

When visiting Vienna, you simply can’t leave without trying nice pastries or dessert. Kaiserschmarrn is the number #1 dessert listed in Vienna. It is a shredded pancake, topped with raisins, powdered icing sugar, and apple or plum sauce. Designed to satisfy your sweet tooth and perfect match with a nice cup of coffee. A desert out of heaven!

Best kaiserschmarrn in Vienna: Cafe Central (Herrengasse 14) served their version of Kaiserschmarrn and is often rated as one of the best kaiserschmarrn in town. While Cafe Landtmann (Universitätsring 4) also served a variety of Austria pastries and the best in their Kaiserschmarr. Lastly, Heindls Schmarren & Palatschinkenkuchl (Köllnerhofgasse/Grashofgasse 4) is a classical pancake house with huge sweet and savory pancakes including the famous Kaiserschmarrn.

Sachertorte

The dense chocolate sponge cake was invented in 1832, by Franz Sacher for Prince von Metternich 1832. Sachertorte is made with thin layers of apricot jam and coated with dark chocolate icing, sachertorte is often accompanied by unsweetened whipped cream.

Best Sachertorte in Vienna: Café Sacher (Philharmoniker Str. 4) and Café Demel (Kohlmarkt 14). Legal battle over the use of the label ‘The Original Sachertorte’ developed between these two cafes. Finally, the dispute ended in Hotel Sacher’s favor but both are supposed to be excellent.

Apple strudel / Apfelstrudel

Apfelstrudel Vienna — Apfelstrudel from Café Demel

Another best-known classic pastries in Austria is apple strudel or Apfelstrudel. Made with super-thin crispy pastry, and traditionally stuffed with cooking apples, raisins, rum, and cinnamon, the apple strudel often dusted with a sprinkling of sugar. With each bite, you can taste the sweetness of the fresh apples and the flaky pastry. Another perfect accompanied with a cup of hot coffee or tea.

Best apple strudel in Vienna: Basically any local bakery can get the applestrudel. While Kaffee Alt Wien (Bäckerstraße 9), Café Prückel (Stubenring 24) and Café Demel (Kohlmarkt 14) are great places to taste the traditional pastries in truly authentic Viennese surrounding.

Juicy Spare Ribs

Vienna Must Eat - Ribs Of Vienna — Vienna Must Eat – Ribs Of Vienna

Another must-try food in Vienna is a spare rib, a local specialty for meat lovers. Almost every traditional Austrian restaurant offers them. The well-flavored ribs are incredibly juicy, tender, and delicious.

Best spare ribs in Vienna: Ribs of Vienna (Weihburggasse 22) are very popular for their famous spare ribs. It offers a wide range of mouth-watering pork spare ribs with different flavors and side dishes. Reservation is a must as the restaurant is super busy. While both Salm Bräu (Rennweg 8) and Brandauers Schlossbräu (Am Pl. 5) are other great options with huge spare ribs and a local brewery in a traditional beer garden.

Tafelspitz

The Tafelspitz (boiled beef) is a bone marrow broth with a special cut of beef served in a big pot together with side dishes like horseradish, spinach, and usually potatoes. It is local Austria cuisine, which was also favored by Franz Joseph I, the Emperor of Austria.

Best Tafelspitz in Vienna: Plachutta (Wollzeile 38), famous for their special cut of prime Tafelspitz in town. Served in a copper pot together with soup and assorted side dishes. There is no better way to enjoy this Austria traditional food.

Viennese Coffee

Coffee houses are nearly everywhere in Vienna and people here love to spend time enjoying a nice cup of coffee. The Viennese style coffee is something unique with a coffee culture all of its own. Learn about “Schwarzer’ for black coffee, ‘Brauner’ for black coffee with milk, or a ‘Melange’ for coffee with cream in Vienna.

Best Viennese coffee in Vienna: Each Viennese has its preferred coffee shop. The top three well-respected coffee houses to try in Vienna are Cafe Central (Herrengasse 14), Julius Meinl (Graben 19), and Cafe Demel (Kohlmarkt 14). No doubt Cafe Central is the grandest and beautiful coffee shop in Vienna. Famous with their vaulted ceiling and splendid interior; and finest homemade pastries and coffee.

Naschmarkt’s Food

Naschmarkt is the most popular market in Vienna with all kinds of goods, like fresh fruit, vegetables, exotic herbs, and cheese from all over the world. A great location to grab a bite; enjoy your breakfast or lunch with some fresh delightful Viennese specialty.

Best food in Naschmarkt Vienna: While a large community of Turkish people in Vienna, Naschmarkt is one of the best places to find falafel, hummus, and kebabs. Choose to take away or eat in Naschmarkt.

Viennese Goulash

Goulash or beef stew is one of the popular dishes in Central Europe. Mostly all restaurants in Hungary, the Czech Republic, and Austria served this dish in their own recipe. Vienna found its way to develop many variations like the Esterhazy goulash or the Fiaker goulash. The slow-cooked fatless meat with onions and spices is the secret of great goulash.

Best goulash in Vienna: Gulaschmuseum (chulerstraße 20) serving large choice and different types of goulash. A good place to have goulash in different variety. Ilona Stüberl ètterem (Bräunerstraße 2) and Gasthaus Rebhuhn (Berggasse 24) served traditional and authentic Austrian cuisine and famous for its goulash.

Manner Wafer

Don’t miss these delightful Neapolitan wafer biscuits when visiting Vienna. Invented in 1898, the manner wafer is now the symbol of Viennese culture and one of the best-selling products in Vienna. Made with crunchy wafers layered with delicate hazelnut and cocoa cream; cut into bite-sized pieces. Get them at almost all shops and supermarkets; or special Manner shop at Stephansplatz.

Central Europe Itinerary

Read on where we go, what to eat, and how we spend our days in the top three must visit country in Central Europe. We have listed and recorded down the country visited, which we think is the perfect place to visit in Central Europe travel.

Central Europe Itinerary: Top 3 Must Visit Country

by Emily | posted in: Travel Itinerary | 0

Last updated on September 17th, 2024

Planning on Central Europe itinerary? Perfect Central Europe itinerary with 13 days in the top 3 must-visit countries. Don’t miss Prague, Cesky Krumlov, Hallstatt, Vienna, and Budapest on your travel.

While most the people are choosing Central Europe for their holiday living expenses are considered low compared with Northern Europe like Norway, Denmark or Paris, Switzerland. The best thing to do in Central Europe is to enjoy traveling without hurting yourself too much in your wallet.

The historical cities with unique architecture and stunning settings, quaint towns with incredible scenes, splendid cafes with nice coffee and dessert; make Central Europe one of the must-visit places in life.

The Top 3 must-visit countries in Central Europe are the Czech Republic, Austria, and Hungary. Planning to visit these three countries required at least more than 10 days for slow travel. You can also add on side visits to Germany to Munich and Fussen for Neuschwanstein Castle; Bratislava in Slovakia and places nearby.

The Perfect Central Europe Itinerary

Best Panoramic Photo Spot In Cesky Krumlov

Depending on your flight, we highly recommended you start and end in Prague or Budapest. This Central Europe itinerary is free to add and remove places based on your interest and travel date. We have listed down the detailed 13 days Central Europe itinerary, which we think is an excellent duration for your travel journey.

How to spend 13 days For Central Europe Itinerary:

Day 1: Arrive in Central Europe and head to Prague. Spend time in Prague Old Town.
Day 2: Charles Bridge, Prague Castle (Czech Republic)
Day 3: Petrin Tower, Wenceslas Square. From Prague to Cesky Krumlov.
Day 4: Cesky Krumlov (Czech Republic)
Day 5: From Cesky Krumlov to Hallstatt. Visit Salzwelten Salt Mine (Austria)
Day 6: World Most Beautiful Town, Hallstatt. From Hallstatt to Salzburg by train.
Day 7: Salzburg Old Town (Austria)
Day 8: From Salzburg to Vienna. Spend time in Cafe Central and the opera show in Staatsoper Vienna.
Day 9: Schönbrunn And Belvedere Palace (Austria)
Day 10: From Vienna to Budapest by train. Spend time in Danube Bank Budapest (Hungary)
Day 11: Buda Hill, Budapest
Day 12: Pest City, Budapest
Day 13: Goodbye Central Europe Trip.

For quick access to our Central Europe itinerary in interesting countries as below:

Czech Republic: Three days in Prague, One day in Cesky Krumlov
Austria: Traveling to Hallstatt, Salzburg, and Vienna within 5 days
Hungary: Three Days in Budapest

With more time? Some nearby places that you can add to your itinerary, even for 1, 2, 3, or 4 days.

Slovakia: Day trip from Vienna to Bratislava
Germany: From Salzburg to Berchtesgaden

Day 1: Prague, Czech Republic

Romantic Prague — A Perfect 3 Days Prague Itinerary

Prague: Old Town Square, Old Town Hall, Astronomical Clock, Church of Our Lady, farmer’s market

On the first day arriving in Prague after long hours of traveling, try to minimize your places visit by wandering around your hotel. We suggest staying in the old town area with top city sights nearby. Getting from Prague Vaclav Havel Airport (PRG) to the city with public transport, taxi, or private transfer. For hassle-free transfer, consider taking the private airport transfer at a reasonable price.

Settled everything, have a nice local Czech cuisine (we love V Cipu Restaurant), and rest early. Visit and wander around in Old Town Square or visit the farmer’s market for some snacks and beer if you have time.

Where To Stay in Prague: Rott Hotel which is strategically located in the old town square. The Old Town Hall and Astronomical Clock are just three minutes of walking distance. Helpful staff, clean and comfortable. Their wide range of breakfast is a plus!

Don’t forget to check out the essential Prague travel tips with things to do and not to do in Prague.

Day 2: Prague Castle, Czech Republic

Prague: Charles Bridge, Prague Castle, John Lennon Wall

Head to Charles Bridge early to avoid the crowd. A morning walk across the 14th Century Charles Bridge is one of the most enjoyable and memorable experiences of visiting Prague. You can choose to visit Charles Bridge during the evening if you not planning to wake up early.

Next, have a nice breakfast before touring the World Most Biggest Castle, Prague Castle. Spend your day visiting St. Vitus Cathedral, Old Royal Palace, St. George’s Basilica, Golden Lane with Daliborka Tower. You may meet the changing guard ceremony at each entrance on the hour, while the best one is at the main Prague Castle entrance. Admirer the Prague city view before leaving the castle hill and slowly back to the city area.

Have a great meal at Lokal U Bile Kuzelky for its pilsner and local Czech cooking. Take some rest before proceeding to John Lennon Wall or take a paddleboat ride at the Vltara river.

Don’t forget to get a trdelnik, local Czech street food. And we feel the Best Trdelnik in Prague is from TRDLO, located at Staré Město near Charles Bridge.

End your day with a sunset walk across Charles Bridge or pub crawl to experience the nightlife in Prague.

Day 3: Petrin Tower, Wenceslas Square

River Cruise at Vltara River — Prague Travel Guides: Things To Do And Not To Do

Prague: Petrin Tower, Wenceslas Square; getting from Prague to Cesky Krumlov

Start your day by exploring the modern view of Prague. Climb up to Petrin Tower, Old Town Hall, or Powder Tower for a different view of Prague from the top. Posing at the dancing house, or walk to Wenceslas square for strolling around.

That’s the end of the perfect three days itinerary in Prague.

The next destination visit in Central Europe Itinerary is Cesky Krumlov. Some people choose to take a day tour from Prague to explore the other parts of places nearby. Well putting Cesky Krumlov as part of the Central Europe Itinerary is the best and well plan ideal, something you would be missed!

Day Tour from Prague: Český Krumlov, National Park Bohemian Switzerland, Kutná Hora, Dresden.

From Prague to Cesky Krumlov, you can take a day tour, train, bus, rent a car, or shuttle service. The most common and cheapest option for getting to Cesky Krumlov from Prague is by Student Agency Bus from RegioJet. It is very comfortable and costs about 6.5 euros for early bird promotion.

Where To Stay in Cesky Krumlov: For a couple of travelers, choose the Hotel Grand. While group travelers or family, we highly recommend the Apartment Soukenicka 44, a Gothic cultural monument with wood-beamed ceilings and hardwood floors. A very nice pension stay in Cesky Krumlov at central of town.

Day 4: Cesky Krumlov, Czech Republic

Český Krumlov, Fairy Tale Town Comes Into Reality

Cesky Krumlov: Castle Complex, Castle Tower, Old Town

A picturesque old town is something you shouldn’t be missed on your Central Europe itinerary. Cesky Krumlov is like a fairy tale town that comes into reality. In the morning, take a visit to Cesky Krumlov Castle for its colorful painted castle courtyard.

Climb up to Castle Tower, the highest viewpoint in Cesky Krumlov. From here, get a bird’s eye view of CK town with its colorful street, Baroque castle, and snaking river. Take another panoramic view from the “Mantelbrücke” bridge and lastly walk to the castle garden.

Spend the rest of the day wandering around the old town, exploring the handmade shops, or have a nice beer at the best riverside restaurant.

Dinner at Krčma v šatlavské Ulici, a unique tavern dining experience for local Czech cuisine. Prepare for a medieval feast and watch the meat being cooked on the roaring fire in front of you. Longline is always outside so do make a reservation to avoid disappointment.

Day 5: Salzwelten Salt Mine, Hallstatt

Getting from Cesky Krumlov to Hallstatt; Hallstatt: Salzwelten Salt Mine, Welterbeblick Skywalk observation deck

Next is Hallstatt, the world’s most beautiful town in Austria which is no longer hidden away in the Salzkammergut region. Well, the public transport is not well-connected between Cesky Krumlov and Hallstatt. Consider taking the private or share shuttle service to get from CK to Hallstatt with less hassle and more comfortable.

Once reach Hallstatt, take a funicular ride to the top of the Hallstatt for the Hallstatt Salzwelten tour, one of the oldest salt mines in the world. Don’t forget to Hallstatt Skywalk observation deck for a 360-degree panorama view above the Hallstatt village.

Where To Stay in Hallstatt: Seehotel Gruner baum, probably the best lakeside hotel in Hallstatt. Staying in Hallstatt is not cheap but a lot of people are still willing to pay to stay in Hallstatt. The best thing to do in Hallstatt is wandering around in the early morning when most day-trippers leave.

Day 6: World Most Beautiful Town, Hallstatt

Hallstatt: Market Square, outside (Badestrand) and upper Hallstatt; getting from Hallstatt to Salzburg

Start your day early to explore the hidden gem of Austria. Take a postcard-perfect photo of the quaint lakeside town starting from north to the south end, and continue to walk outside or climb upper to see Hallstatt at different angles.

Enjoy the charming lake view with a nice lunch outside of Seehotel Gruner baum or Seewirt Zauner. Try Hallstatt’s specialty, freshly caught fish from Hallstatt Lake. Before leaving Hallstatt to Salzburg by train, enjoy the prime moment across the Hallstätter See with the ferry ride. The wonderful Hallstatt itinerary day is ended with two hours train ride to Salzburg.

More time to spend in Hallstatt? Explore the Dachstein Krippenstein’s Giant Ice Cave and Five Finger.

Where To Stay in Salzburg: ACHAT Plaza Zum Hirschen. Location is the main reason for choosing the accommodation in Salzburg. Salzburg is a great base for exploring the places nearby. A traditional 4-star hotel with less than 5 minute walks to Salzburg Train Station.

Day 7: Salzburg Old Town, Austria

Salzburg: Untersberg, Schloss Hellbrunn, Mirabell Palace, Hohensalzburg Fortress

Start your one-day itinerary in Salzburg to Untersberg for a majestic view at the peak of the mountain. Proceed to Schloss Hellbrunn and take a Wasserspiele Tour at Trick Fountain. Spending the rest of the days wandering around Salzburg town. Firstly, stop by Mirabell Palace to see the scene in the “Sound of Music” scene or take a visit to Mozart’s birthplace on Getreidegasse street. Lastly, take the funicular ride to Hohensalzburg Fortress.

Salzburg Travel Tips: Get a Salzburg Card ( 24 / 48 / 72 hours) where you can have free admission to all the top Salzburg attractive and free public transportation.

More days to spend in Salzburg:

Day 8: Cafe Central And Staatsoper Vienna

Getting from Salzburg to Vienna; Vienna: Stephensdom, Graben, Cafe Central, opera music at Staatsoper

The train journey from Salzburg to Vienna is about two hours. Once we reached the Vienna train station, take a metro to the hotel. Spend the afternoon touring around Vienna downtown. Visit Stephensdom, one of the most impressive landmarks in Vienna, or walk down to Graben, the most famous shopping street in Vienna. Late lunch or early dinner at the most famous Figlmüller, served the biggest schnitzels in town.

One of the must-do in Vienna enjoys the opera music at State Opera House, one of the most famous opera houses in the world. Want to know how we only spend €15 for a seated ticket to enjoy the world-class at Staatsoper? Read more on our Vienna money-saving tips.

Stunning Decoration in Cafe Central Vienna

Have a coffee tour to Julius Meinl, Café Central, Café Demel. We love spending our afternoon with a nice cup of coffee and a great dessert at Cafe Central, the Top Ten World’s Most Beautiful Cafe. The Sacher Torte at Cafe Sacher is also a great ideal for afternoon tea.

Where To Stay in Vienna: Motel One Wien-Hauptbahnhof. Perfect hotel with strategic location, walking distance to train station. Spacious and clean room with friendly staff.

Day 9: Schönbrunn And Belvedere Palace

Vienna: Schönbrunn Palace, Belvedere Palace, Hofburg Palace, MuseumsQuartiers, hop on hop off bus, Prater Park

First of all, get the 1-Day Vienna Pass if you planned to tour Vienna with ease. While the entrance to most of Vienna’s top city sights is expensive, consider getting the Vienna for money saving.

Visit Schönbrunn Palace and join the Imperial or Grand Tour to the summer residence of Hapsburgs. Proceed to Belvedere Palace to admire World Famous’s Kiss of Klimt and the collection of Gustav Klimt’s art. Both palaces have a very beautiful and spectacular garden if you wish to take a leisure walk.

Return to the city center and visit the Hofburg Palace, and MuseumsQuartiers or ride on the hop on hop off sightseeing bus. Everything is covered by Vienna Pass. If time is allowed, you can also take the Giant Ferries Wheel in Prater Park. Anyway, choose and visit that attraction that you are interested in.

The day ended with a mouth-watering dinner with juicy ribs and cooling beer at Ribs of Vienna. But remember to reserve your table as easily get full.

Central Europe Travel Tips: Spend your day with Vienna Pass to enjoy free entry and even Fast Track Entry to over 70 of Vienna’s most popular attractions and museums. Check on Vienna Pass from Klook for more information.

Day 10: Danube Bank Budapest

Getting from Vienna to Budapest; Budapest: Széchenyi lánchíd (Chain Bridge), Shoes on the Danube Bank

Take a train from Vienna to Budapest, remember to reserve your seat as the train sometimes are full. Buy the Budapest transportation pass for getting around in Budapest. Check in to the hotel and wander around along the Danube bank.

Follow the Danube river and walk along the promenade. Along the Danube bank, you can cross the Széchenyi lánchíd, meet the Shoes on the Danube Bank, or the Houses of Parliament.

What to Eat: Dinner at Kiskakukk étterem with delicious local Hungarian cuisine

Where To Stay in Budapest: D8 Hotel Budapest. Newly open, D8 Hotel is a perfect stay in Budapest with a strategic location and comfortable room. Walk to Chain Bridge, Deák Ferenc Tér Square, as well as Vaci utca for shopping.

Day 11: Buda Hill, Budapest

Budapest: Fisherman’s Bastion, Matthias Church, Buda Castle, New York Cafe

Spend your day wandering around Buda city. Firstly, take the bus (#16) to the castle hill, and get down at Fisherman’s Bastion. Get some of the magnificent Pest views from the fairy tale lookout point. Take a visit to Matthias Church and explore the Buda Castle at the castle hill. Slowly walk from castle hill or take the funicular down to the ground. Walk across the Szechenyi Chain Bridge to the Pest side.

Have a nice break at New York Cafe, World’s Most Beautiful Cafe after the long day’s walk.

Day 12: Pest City, Budapest

Budapest: St Stephen’s Basilica, Costes Downtown, Széchenyi Thermal Bath

Have a good rest and kick start your day with Bussiness Lunch at Costes Downtown, One Star Michelin restaurant in Budapest. We loved their food and rated it as one of the best meals we’d ever eaten in Budapest. Highly recommended to dine in Costes Downtown for wonderful lunch or dinner.

Next, take a visit to St Stephen’s Basilica, a Roman Catholic Basilica to burn some of the calories before proceeding to the next location. Lastly, try on your first thermal bath in Budapest, at the most famous Széchenyi or Gellert Spa Thermal Bath. You will stay inside for a longer time than you expected.

Get Skip The Line Ticket Discounted Ticket from Klook. Easy redeem and cheaper compare onsite:

End your day at Szimpla Kert, the very first and Best Ruin Bar in Budapest.

Day 13: Goodbye Central Europe

Budapest: Central Market; take the flight back home or your next destination.

Spend your last day in Central Europe itinerary by shopping in Central Market Budapest. Pick some souvenirs, paprika, and Tokaji to bring back home here.

How Long Should You Spend in Central Europe?

Awesome View Over Salzburg at Hohensalzburg Fortress

The best duration should be 10 to 14 days as you find yourself in a tired mood after a long time of travel. The general rule is spending at least 1-2 days in small cities and 3-5 days required for the largest European cities. There is a nearly endless list of incredible destinations that can be added to your Central Europe itinerary. No one of the itineraries can cover all. You can flexibly add in any extra days or places if you think most suitable for your travel.

Central Europe Travel Tips

We hope our Central Europe itinerary is helpful. Based on the top 3 must-visit countries in Central Europe, make an absolute ideal for your wonderful trip.

What are the must-visit countries in central Europe?

The Top 3 must-visit countries in Central Europe are the Czech Republic, Austria, and Hungary.

How long do you need to visit Central Europe?

We recommended at least 10 to 14 days to visit Central Europe for a relaxing trip.

Is Central Europe worth visiting?

Definitely worth visiting Central Europe. It is full of cultural heritage, natural beauty, a splendid cafe with a nice coffee, and delicious traditional local cuisine.

How much to spend on a Central Europe trip?

Traveling in Central Europe does not have to be an expensive experience. Depending on your interest, it can range from $100 to $200 per person per day at a minimum budget.

Central Europe Travel Guide — Central Europe Travel Blog

Lastly, feel free to continue to read on our Central Europe itinerary to the beautiful places in the Czech Republic, Austria, and Hungary. Our Central Europe travel blog is included!

Cafe Central Vienna Review And Food Recommendation

by Emily | posted in: Austria | 0

Last updated on October 19th, 2024

If you are in Vienna, you really must head to one of the local coffee houses for a cup of nice coffee or dessert. Don’t miss the visit to Café Central Vienna, one of the top 10 most beautiful cafes in the world.

There’s no shortage of cafes in Vienna with coffee houses nearly everywhere. Voted as the third most beautiful coffee shop in the world, Café Central is a very popular and famous coffee house in Vienna that attracts tourists and local hordes.

We spend a leisure afternoon in Cafe Central during our visit to Vienna. Unique architecture in a nice ambiance served their best coffee with the finest homemade dessert. Worth the visit!

If you are planning for getting around and visiting Vienna, read more on our three days in Vienna on budget with money-saving tips. No worry as we will still explore the city top’s sights, and enjoy the best food and drink in Vienna with fun and excitement!

Vienna Travel Tips: We recommended to stay nearby tram Station for easy getting around and food hunting. The Trend Hotel Savoyen Vienna located right next to the train station so we could get the airport S7 direct, to and fro. Moreover, the tram station #71 is just few minutes away and easy to link to another tram stations. We really love the location, great facilities, comfort cozy room and super friendly staffs.

How To Get To Cafe Central Vienna

Cafe Central is centrally located in the center of Vienna town, opposite Palais Niederösterreich and just a short walk from Hofburg Palace. Likewise situated near the Spanish Riding School with horse-drawn carriages regular passing by.

The nearest subway station to the Central Cafe is Herrengasse station. Take the subway (U-Bahn) U3 and get off at Herrengasse stop, and proceed for less than a 3-minute walk to the cafe. Alternatively, take the buses 1A or 2A which will stop at Herrengasse stop too.

Address: Herrengasse 14, 1010 Wien, Austria

Cafe Central Vienna

The Central Café first opened in 1876 and has been in existence for more than 150 years. This building was formerly known as Chess School and also used to be Bank and Stock Exchange Office after World World II.

It was once a popular meeting point for Vienna literature, artist, politician, and scientists such as Arthur Schnitzler, Sigmund Freud, Peter Altenberg, and Leo Trotzki. Nowadays, it has become a pilgrimage site for tourists from all over the world to Vienna, willing to pay hefty prices for coffee and dessert.

Always long queue, so expected for waiting in line for a seat. We waited for almost 30 minutes as Cafe Central was superb busy during the evening and even on weekdays. Cafe Central is open for reservation on weekdays. (Reservation in Cafe Central)

Open daily from 7:30 a.m to 10 p.m except for Sunday, starting from 10 a.m.

Splendid Building with Vaulted Ceiling

Once inside you will know why people in Vienna love and enjoy coffee. The splendid building with a vaulted ceiling does not disappoint. It is decorated with stunning archways hanging over a counter of sweet delight. Everyone enjoyed eating cake and drinking coffee in a grand cafe with a pleasant dining atmosphere. We were in Vienna, the capital of music.

The service is pretty brusque and professional. We were greeted and welcomed warmly with a smile once entered.

You can see the famous Austrian writer Peter Altenberg, formerly known as Richard Engländer at the door side. His famous quote, ” If I am not in a cafe, I am on the way to the cafe” is now still used in Cafe Central. Amazing place full of history, make us travel back to the Vienna in Freud’s time.

Full Menu On Offer

Similar to other cafes, Cafe Central also offered a wide range of breakfast choices, daily lunch, and a formal dinner menu. Classic Austria dishes, decent goulash soup, schnitzel, apple strudel, and savory treats can be ordered in Cafe Central.

However, though a full menu is on offer, Cafe Central’s daily excellent selection of tortes and cakes are superb exquisite, and attractive. We would highly recommend you order the cake and desserts from the patisserie side. The dessert bar is something you hardly can miss once you enter the cafe, right in front of the entrance. Big counter with all the delicious cakes neatly load out awaiting you to choose from. Heaven for people with a sweet tooth.

Just note down the number of pastries or cake you want to order and then tell your waiter.

Cake heaven

The best part was the dessert we had which was so delicious. Beautifully presented like artwork and taste as good as they look.

So, what did we order? The desserts are so nice in Cafe Central Vienna and we ordered for a second round after taste on a few cakes. Total six desserts with coffee. There are some of the reasons that we loved Cafe Central’s cake so much.

One of the surprises and most favorite desserts is the Osterhase. It is the Easter seasonal edition dessert with Easter bunnies filled with wild strawberry and covered with crispy pop.

Sisi’s Favorite, is named after Empress Elizabeth of Austria aka Sisi. This rum pastry with apricot jam was the favorite one of Elizabeth ‘Sisi’. The cake is sweet and sour with rum with good taste.

The Altenbergtorte is a chocolate cake with white, dark, and milk chocolate mousse. Very creamy and rich in a chocolate scene.

The Trio De Petite Four is very nice but not exceptional.

Last but not least is the Honey Bee. The cake itself is a cute design with lemon and yogurt mousses on top. Taste sweet and sour.

Kaiserschmarrn

One of the most famous warm desserts in Cafe Central is the Kaiserchmarrn, torn warm thick pancake with stewed plum. Scrumptious! A big serving and easily shared among two people. We were fighting to finish it but the portion is too huge.

This Austrian traditional dessert emperor pancake is also the favorite dessert of Franz Josef I.

Viennese Coffee

Austrian has a coffee culture all of its own. Their coffees are unique and simple but not varied. Wiener Melange is the unique Viennese style coffee, extended espresso infused with hot water and frothed milk. The coffee is very smooth and ordinary.

You can also have coffee or tea specialties like coffee mixed with rum, whiskey, or liqueur together and whipped cream.

Come taste their coffee and you will know why their coffee is so good.

Cafe Central Vienna Review

All in all, if you don’t mind the possible wait, Café Central qualifies as a must-do on your Vienna itinerary. Imagine drinking a cup of coffee with a nice dessert, surrounded by splendid architecture and decoration for a grand experience. All make you feel like back in time. There are so many places for the Vienna cafe experience, but Cafe Central is the best of them all. Worth the wait!

The history and decoration of Cafe Central are very similar to New York Cafe in Budapest. While both cafes were also voted as the top 10 most beautiful cafes in the world. But the great coffee and perfect dessert are as good as it says.

New York Cafe Budapest, World Most Beautiful Cafe

by Emily | posted in: Hungary | 0

Last updated on September 14th, 2024

New York Cafe, is the most beautiful cafe in the world and also the most beloved coffee house in Budapest. At the same time, it is also listed the top 10 things to do in the Budapest itinerary for many travelers.

Budapest is a wonderful and charming city. It has not only the most beautiful McDonald’s and bookstore in the world, but also the world’s most beautiful cafe – New York Cafe. I am not too fancy about this kind of most beautiful cafe in the world.

However, enjoying a cup of nice coffee in the beautiful elegant palace after a long day’s walk seems like not a bad idea. This was the perfect way to spend our evening in Budapest. One of the best things to do in Budapest.

Read more about our top 10 things to do in Budapest for some inspiration on your coming trip to Budapest.

Travel Tips: We recommended to stay at the Buda side for easy getting around and food hunting. The Hotel D8 Hotel is located within right next to the Danube River and walking distance to the Chain Bridge, Deák Ferenc Tér Square and other attractions. We really love the location and staffs are very helpful too.

Getting to New York Cafe

We spend our morning exploring around the Buda side and mesmerized by the top city’s sight, Buda Castle. We were exhausted and decided to proceed for a café break as per the plan. New York Café, Budapest’s best cafe is selected as our next destination for a wonderful three days itinerary in Budapest.

It is pretty easy to access New York Café with many tram stop around. The closest subway is Blaha Lujza station, which is a few minutes to get there.

Address: Budapest, Erzsébet krt. 9-11, 1073 Hungary

New York Cafe

New York Café (New York Kávéház) is located in a 120 years old building, which is now the house of New York Palace, formerly known as Boscolo Hotel Budapest.

No surprise if there’s a long queue just to sit in New York Café. Luckily we also understand the huge crowd and did make the reservation before our visit. Always busy, make your reservation at least 24 hours ahead if you don’t wish to queue especially during popular afternoon tea hour. (New York Cafe Reservation)

New York cafe opening hours: 08:00~24:00 daily

In its beginnings, the historical building was used as a branch office of New York Life Insurance Company in Hungary which opened in 1894. However, similar to many of Budapest’s elegant historic buildings, this palace was severely damaged during World War II. Thanks to the investor, the building was restored to its former splendor in opulence Italian Renaissance-style and successfully reopened in 2006.

As a result, it is now reborn and served as a five-star hotel, New York Palace Hotel with New York Café attached. For the true feelings of the Austro-Hungarian empire, you can also choose a luxury stay in New York Palace Hotel Budapest. (Click for Best Rate From New York Hotel)

Elegant Palace Design

People called it “the most beautiful cafe in the world” for a reason! Once we reached New York Cafe, its exterior gives a taste of the elegance that awaits inside.

Walking in, we felt like we were transported back in time and reveling in an old-world glamour with its grandeur architecture and decor. The high majestic ceiling is stunning. It was hard to believe such a magnificent place was a coffee shop. People have to be convinced that the New York Cafe, is the most beautiful cafe in the world.

There are two floors of the dining area in New York Cafe. We were greeted by the lovely staff and seated on the upper floor of the dining hall after double confirm on our reservation.

Meanwhile, the live orchestra consists of a classic band of piano, violin, bass, and clarinet player. They were playing on the upper floor, adding to the romantic and amazing ambiance in New York Cafe.

Wide Selection of New York Cafe Menu

Buffet breakfast is served from 8 a.m to 11 a.m in New York Cafe at €29 per person. Else, choose from any a la carte breakfast like french toast, pancake, Hungarian, or Vienna sausage to start your day.

While, New York Cafe also served a complete meal including starter, soup, pasta, main course, and up to dessert. Classic Hungarian dishes like goulash, Paprikash-style main course, and grilled foie gras can be ordered as your lunch and dinner here.

For coffee and sweet lover, there is a wide selection of drinks and desserts with different combinations to choose from. A cup of coffee cost about €6 – €9 and cakes, and ice creams are about €9. You can order the afternoon tea for two people at €60. Alternatively, you can order the chocolate, cheesecake, and apple pie in a set that comes with a cup of coffee or hot chocolate for €19.

Considering the consumption level in Budapest, it is more expensive. But it would not be more than what you would usually expect at a 5-star hotel. With pilgrimage to the world’s most beautiful cafes, is worth the price tag.

We ordered two dessert sets which come with a cup of coffee and a slice of cake. Added, we also order the special Hungarian cafe and ice cream to enjoy our afternoon tea in Budapest.

Hungarian Coffee With Paprika and Chili

One of the unique coffee in New York Cafe is Hungarian Coffee. The coffee comes with black sour cherry paprika, chili, brown sugar, coffee, and cream. The taste left us feeling sufficiently sick, but satisfied. Something special to try in Budapest.

Something to note, all the New York Cafe coffees come with a piece of gold-printed chocolate and a glass of soda water. The soda water served as a palate cleanser. So that one can thoroughly enjoy every sip of their coffee.

While for the cake, our New York chocolate cake and cheesecake with homemade apricot jam were superbly presented. As a chocolate lover, I prefer the New York Chocolate cake. Both were great but not very outstanding.

Worth Visit The World Most Beautiful Café?

During our Central Europe trip, we also visited Café Central in Vienna when we traveled around in Austria. Both Cafe Central and New York Cafe are lovely and different, but personally, New York Cafe is more opulence and grandeur than Cafe Central. But the coffee and dessert are best in Café Central. Anyway, I still love them both.

The beauty of the New York Cafe was a feast for the eyes. We enjoy looking around at the beautiful decor and live musicians performing. Although the desserts were not as good as expected we were not disappointed here. It is a special date in New York Cafe, the most beautiful cafe in the world. In short, one of the best things and must do in Budapest.

Looking For Other Food Options in Budapest?

Night View At Hungarian Parliament Building

To sum up, we spend a wonderful time wandering around during our three days in Budapest. We ate a lot of local street food at the market and food hunting in the Central market. Not to forget the fine dining in a Michelin star restaurant and taste the best Hungarian cuisine in a restaurant highly recommended by locals.

If you are interested, check out our Budapest itinerary and another food review in Budapest:

For an itinerary that covers the Czech Republic, Austria, Hungary, and other interesting cities, feel free to check out this Central Europe Itinerary in more detail.

Complete Central Europe Itinerary: Top 3 Must Visit Country

Read more on our Central Europe Travel Stories here:

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Vienna Food Guide: What To Eat in Vienna

Wiener Schnitzel

Kaiserschmarrn

Sachertorte

Apple strudel / Apfelstrudel

Juicy Spare Ribs

Tafelspitz

Viennese Coffee

Naschmarkt’s Food

Viennese Goulash

Manner Wafer

Central Europe Itinerary

The Perfect Central Europe Itinerary

Day 1: Prague, Czech Republic

Day 2: Prague Castle, Czech Republic

Day 3: Petrin Tower, Wenceslas Square

Day 4: Cesky Krumlov, Czech Republic

Day 5: Salzwelten Salt Mine, Hallstatt

Day 6: World Most Beautiful Town, Hallstatt

Day 7: Salzburg Old Town, Austria

Day 8: Cafe Central And Staatsoper Vienna

Day 9: Schönbrunn And Belvedere Palace

Day 10: Danube Bank Budapest

Day 11: Buda Hill, Budapest

Day 12: Pest City, Budapest

Day 13: Goodbye Central Europe

How Long Should You Spend in Central Europe?

Central Europe Travel Tips

How To Get To Cafe Central Vienna

Cafe Central Vienna

Splendid Building with Vaulted Ceiling

Full Menu On Offer

Cake heaven

Kaiserschmarrn

Viennese Coffee

Cafe Central Vienna Review

Read More On Our Central Europe Itinerary

Getting to New York Cafe

New York Cafe

Elegant Palace Design

Wide Selection of New York Cafe Menu

Hungarian Coffee With Paprika and Chili

Worth Visit The World Most Beautiful Café?

Looking For Other Food Options in Budapest?