Wien
Discover Vienna's Top Bars for an Unforgettable Cocktail Evening
Vienna is not only lively by day but also unfolds a very special charm after sunset. The Austrian capital offers an impressive variety of bars, ranging from traditional Viennese venues to modern cocktail bars. Whether you want a relaxed evening after work or to turn night into day, the city's bars have something for every taste.
In this guide we introduce the 10 best bars in Vienna that you really should visit. From hidden speakeasies and long-established hotel bars to rooftop lounges with spectacular views, here you will find all the information for unforgettable evenings in the Danube metropolis, including notes on reservations, dress code and price level.
Bars in Vienna's City Centre: The Top Addresses in the Heart of the City
The city centre is home to some of the best bars Vienna has to offer. Here history and modernity blend into a unique cocktail experience, and the distances between venues are short enough for an evening with several stops.
The Legendary American Bar at the Hotel Sacher
The American Bar at the Hotel Sacher is regarded as one of the most iconic bars in town. Since 1876 this elegant bar has served first-class cocktails in surroundings that combine Viennese tradition with international sophistication.
- Famous guests such as Ernest Hemingway and Frank Sinatra
- Classic cocktails made to original recipes
- Stylish Art Deco interior
- A great choice for special occasions
💡 Tip: Reserve a table in advance, as the American Bar is quickly booked out, especially at the weekend.
Loos American Bar: An Architectural Jewel
The bar designed by Adolf Loos is not only one of the most beautiful in the city but also an architectural masterpiece. The small but fine room has space for a maximum of 20 guests, so if you want to be sure of a seat, arrive early.
- Designed by star architect Adolf Loos
- A mirror system creates an optical enlargement of the space
- Excellent whiskey selection
- Authentic 1900s atmosphere
Cocktail Bars in Vienna: Modern Mixology Meets Viennese Charm
The modern cocktail scene now shapes Vienna just as strongly as its coffeehouse culture. These bars rely on innovative drinks, high-quality spirits and creative presentation. If you would like to delve deeper into the subject, our guide to the most exciting bars and nightlife in Vienna has further places to try.
The Birdyard: A Hidden Speakeasy Gem
The Birdyard hides behind an unassuming door and is considered one of the best speakeasies in town. The atmosphere recalls the Prohibition era.
- Ring the bell at the black door in the Operngasse
- Let the menu surprise you
- Try the house gin
- Enjoy the intimate atmosphere
Kruger's American Bar: Classics Reinterpreted
Kruger's American Bar combines traditional cocktail culture with modern techniques. It is one of the must-visit addresses for cocktail lovers.
- Over 200 different spirits
- Homemade syrups and bitters
- Seasonal cocktail menu
- Expert advice from experienced bartenders
💡 Tip: Ask for a personalised cocktail mixed to your taste preferences.
Bars with a View: Rooftop Experiences above the Rooftops
For everyone who wants to enjoy their drinks with a spectacular view, these bars offer panoramas you will not forget. Especially at dusk, when the lighting of the old town comes on, the trip upstairs is worthwhile.
The LOFT: 18th Floor with a 360-Degree View
On the 18th floor of the Sofitel Vienna, the LOFT offers a breathtaking all-round view over the city. This bar is without doubt one of the most spectacular in town and is in correspondingly high demand at weekends.
Atmosphere Rooftop Bar: Modern Elegance
The Atmosphere Rooftop Bar at the Ritz-Carlton combines luxurious fittings with a fantastic view of Vienna's old town.
- Panoramic view of St Stephen's Cathedral and the State Opera
- Modern cocktail creations
- Stylish lounge atmosphere
- Open all year round with a heatable terrace
Alternative Bars: Creative and Extraordinary
Away from the classic cocktail bars, Vienna also has extraordinary concepts that enrich the city's nightlife. Here the menu counts for less than the atmosphere, and prices are often pleasantly down to earth.
Kleinod: Vintage Charm in the 2nd District
The Kleinod charms with its cosy vintage furnishings and relaxed atmosphere. This bar is one of the insider tips in town.
- Retro furniture and a vinyl collection
- Homemade lemonades and cocktails
- Regular DJ sets
- Cosy sofa corners
Krypt Bar: Underground Feeling
The Krypt Bar hides away in the cellar vaults of a historic building. Its extraordinary ambience makes it one of the most distinctive bars here and a good choice if the evening is allowed to run a little longer.
Viennese Heuriger Culture: Traditional Venues with History
Alongside modern cocktail bars, you should also experience the traditional Viennese Heuriger culture, the wine taverns serving the year's wine. These authentic venues offer an insight into the local drinking culture, and if you are interested in wines without additives, our overview of the natural wine bars in Vienna makes a fitting complement.
Zum Figlmüller: More Than Just Schnitzel
Although famous for its schnitzel, the Figlmüller also offers an impressive selection of Austrian wines and traditional drinks.
- Over 500 years of history
- Authentic Viennese cuisine
- Extensive wine list
- Cosy atmosphere
Heuriger Mayer am Pfarrplatz: Beethoven Tradition
Ludwig van Beethoven once lived in this historic Heuriger. Today it is one of the most authentic traditional venues of its kind.
- Historic ambience
- Its own wine production
- Traditional Heuriger cooking
- A garden with old chestnut trees
Bars for Every Budget: From Cheap to Luxurious
The variety of bars is also reflected in the price categories. Here you will find recommendations for different budgets, from a student night out to a big occasion.
Budget-Friendly Options
Even on a smaller budget you can enjoy the best bars in town:
- Café Hawelka: traditional Viennese coffeehouse with cocktails
- Flex: alternative bar with cheap drinks
- Pratersauna: club atmosphere at fair prices
- Känguru: cosy student bar
Premium Experiences
For special occasions, these luxurious bars offer an experience you will not forget:
- The Bank Brasserie & Bar: a former bank building
- Onyx Bar: exclusive cocktails in a luxury hotel
- Le Ciel: French elegance with Viennese charm
- Sky Bar: a modern rooftop experience
💡 Tip: Many premium bars offer happy hour times with reduced prices.
Planning the Evening Cleverly
A successful evening at the bar in Vienna depends on the order: begin in a rooftop bar while it is still light, then move on to a classic cocktail bar and let the evening wind down in an alternative venue. Since the city centre is compact and the public transport network works well even at night, you can easily link several districts in one evening.
📍 Discover more: Explore further recommendations for Vienna on our city page.
Conclusion: Vienna's Bars Offer the Right Experience for Everyone
The bars of Vienna reflect the variety and charm of the Austrian capital. From historic establishments to modern cocktail bars, Vienna has the right venue for every taste and every budget.
The key takeaways for your perfect evening at the bar in Vienna:
- Reserve popular bars in advance, especially at the weekend
- Use happy hour offers for premium experiences
- Combine different types of bar for a varied evening
- Try both modern cocktail bars and traditional Heurige
- Find out about dress codes in upmarket establishments
Begin your journey of discovery through the city's best bars and let yourself be enchanted by the unique mix of tradition and modernity. The Viennese bar scene is waiting for you to explore it.
Frequently Asked Questions about Bars in Vienna
Which are the best bars in Vienna for cocktail lovers? The best cocktail bars in Vienna include The Birdyard, Kruger's American Bar, the American Bar at the Hotel Sacher and the Loos American Bar. These bars win people over with excellent drinks and a unique ambience.
When are most bars in Vienna open? Most bars open between 5pm and 7pm and close between 1am and 4am. Rooftop bars and hotel bars often have longer opening hours.
Do I need reservations for popular bars in Vienna? For the best-known bars, such as the American Bar or the LOFT, a reservation is a good idea, especially at the weekend. Smaller bars such as the Loos American Bar usually do not take reservations, so the only answer there is to arrive early.
Which bars in Vienna are suitable for groups? For larger groups, bars such as the Kleinod, Flex or the Pratersauna are suitable. They offer more space and a more relaxed atmosphere than exclusive cocktail bars.
Are there dress codes in the upmarket bars? Yes, premium bars such as the American Bar or the LOFT often have a smart casual dress code. Shorts and flip-flops are usually not welcome, and elegant casual clothing is well worth considering.
Which bars in Vienna have the most beautiful view? For panoramic views, the LOFT on the 18th floor of the Sofitel Vienna and the Atmosphere Rooftop Bar at the Ritz-Carlton are the first choice. From there you can see St Stephen's Cathedral and the State Opera, among other sights, and the Atmosphere Rooftop Bar is open all year round thanks to its heatable terrace.
Emma Richter
