THE CITY REPORT: VIENNA

Posted in News on 4 April, 2024

The Austrian capital keeps focus on branded hotels across the spectrum of luxury, as well as long-stay lodgings.

Vienna’s allure lies in its ability to blend history with modernity. As a city with a rich history, decorative Baroque architecture, and a reputation for musical excellence, Austria’s capital has long been a magnet for tourists. The city’s historic centre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is home to landmark gems such as St. Stephen’s Cathedral and the Hofburg Palace. Cobblestone streets wind through charming neighbourhoods, inviting visitors to explore coffeehouses, art galleries, and classical music venues. Beyond the old town, or as it’s formally known, the Innere Stadt, Vienna also has a dynamic cultural scene, brimming with contemporary art galleries, trendy districts, and a culinary landscape that reflects both tradition and innovation.

As well as a strong leisure demand, Vienna boasts a robust business infrastructure, hosting over 200 of Europe’s major corporations and serving as the headquarters for significant international organisations, including the UN, UNIDO, the IAEA, and OPEC. Benefitting from its close proximity to key business hubs paired with its picturesque setting, Vienna has established itself one of Europe’s leading congress destinations. As the city attracts a growing number of visitors from both sides of the coin, its hotel market is undergoing a transformative phase, with numerous projects in the pipeline to meet the increasing demand for high-quality accommodation.

Based on the most recent reports from HVS, approximately 4,000 rooms, constituting 10% of the existing supply, are poised to join the Viennese hotel market within the next few years. Most of the pipeline consists of midscale and upscale properties, around 50% and 40%, respectively, continuing to reflect the trend towards branded hotels, which generally have over 100 rooms. Additionally, there is a noticeable rise in demand for extended-stay accommodation options, backed by the introduction of Citadines and Residence Inn by Marriott.

2024 seems to be the year of completion for many exciting projects in the pipeline. Among them is the imminent opening of H2 Hotel’s second property in the Austrian capital. Positioned precisely between Schönbrunn Palace and the Belvedere Palace, the new H2 Hotel Wien features 265 double rooms and four-bed rooms. Nestled within a contemporary building complex, complete with a shopping mall and underground garage, the hotel also includes amenities such as a breakfast restaurant and the HUB, operational 24/7.

Looking on track to open in April this year, The Hoxton Vienna will be located in the city’s third district, housed in a Modernist landmark designed by Carl Appel. With 196 guestrooms, the hotel draws inspiration from 1950s architecture, combining Mid-Century Austrian design with vibrant textures, geometric forms, and playful tiling. Culinary offerings include Bouvier, a Paris-meets-New York bistro, a basement speakeasy named Salon Paradise, and a rooftop bar and pool with scenic views. The Apartment serves as a meeting space with a classic café ambiance, and the Auditorium, a first for The Hoxton brand, will host everything from comedy gigs to acoustic sessions. Aime Studios’ design of the hotel incorporates both Appel’s Mid-Century aesthetic and the Wiener Werkstätte movement. Preserving the building’s architectural heritage, the lobby features original travertine-clad walls and terrazzo flooring, while a back-lit staircase adds drama to the space, once the home of the Austrian Chamber of Commerce.

Hyatt Hotels Corporation entered into a management agreement with an affiliate of SIGNA and CENTRAL Group for the upcoming Thompson Vienna, an elegant lifestyle hotel set to grace the Austrian capital. This strategic move demonstrates Hyatt’s commitment to expanding its brand presence across Europe, particularly in growing the Thompson Hotels portfolio. Anticipated to open its doors in late 2024, the 148-room Thompson Vienna will find its place on Mariahilferstrasse, nestled in Vienna’s popular retail district, as part of an exciting development introducing a new KaDeWe high-end department store to the city. The collaborative efforts of Thompson Vienna and KaDeWe aim to establish an immersive cultural destination, providing both tourists and locals with a comprehensive experience. This encompassing environment will blend global luxury brands with enticing dining and entertainment choices. Designed by the renowned architects OMA and interiors by Tara Bernerd & Partners, Thompson Vienna promises a modern and edgy aesthetic inspired by the distinctive characteristics of Austria’s iconic capital. The layered design, culinary sophistication, and exceptional service synonymous with the Thompson Hotels brand will undoubtedly contribute to making this venture a compelling addition to Vienna’s hospitality scene.

Renowned hospitality group, Minor Hotels, is also gearing up to unveil a captivating addition to the Anantara Hotels, Resorts & Spas portfolio. Set for its grand debut this spring, the Anantara Palais Hansen Vienna Hotel promises to redefine luxury hospitality in Vienna. Under the Anantara brand, the reimagined property will offer 152 exquisitely appointed guest rooms and suites spread across three floors. Among the opulent and grandiose offerings of the hotel, the 270-square-metre Presidential Suite will stand out as the largest of its kind in the city. The hotel will offer a range of dining options, including a Michelin-starred restaurant, regional cuisine at the Wintergarten, an elegant Lobby Lounge & Bar, and a sophisticated Cigar Lounge. For corporate gatherings and special occasions, the hotel boasts 10 versatile function rooms across the ground floor and mezzanine level, providing ample space for meetings and events. The grand ballroom, capable of accommodating up to 265 guests, serves as a venue for gala dinners, weddings, and conferences. Leisure amenities are aplenty, featuring an indoor swimming pool, a state-of-the-art fitness centre, and a rejuvenating spa.

Looking further ahead, Mandarin Oriental is preparing to debut in Austria with 150 rooms and additional hotel residences all housed within a century-old former courthouse. AWA Hotel Vienna, a member of Radisson Individuals, will become part of the mixed-use high-rise development Weitblick in Viertel Zwei, bringing a further 246 keys to the city in 2025.

Vienna’s hotel development scene reflects the city’s commitment to providing diverse, high-quality accommodations that cater to the needs of its growing number of visitors. From the expansion of luxury brands to the introduction of innovative and budget-friendly options, Vienna’s hospitality sector is evolving to meet the demands of a dynamic and discerning clientele. As these projects come to fruition, Vienna is poised to maintain its status as a top-tier travel destination, offering not only a glimpse into its rich history but also a taste of the contemporary elegance that defines the city’s character.

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