Vienna Is Europe's Most Livable City

Vienna is the best place to live in Europe. That also makes it an amazing place to visit.

Vienna Is Europe's Most Livable City

Stephansplatz square and the St. Stephen's Cathedral in Vienna, Austria

Great places to live often make for great places to travel. And in the case of Vienna, this rule certainly rings true.

The Austrian capital is considered the most livable city in Europe, thanks to its affordable and reliable public transit, low crime rate, accessible museums and cultural spaces, and numerous urban green spaces.

All of these factors combine to make residents happy, but they're also great for visitors who are able to enjoy the city's landmarks easily and without going broke. Visit palaces of the former Austrian Empire, see one of the world's best natural history museums and try the famed sachertorte cake with a thick cup of coffee.

Once you've done the cultural stuff, go ahead and enjoy the city's fun nightlife, which includes everything from chill bars to intense underground clubs.

Note: We may earn money from affiliate partners if you buy through links on our site.

Where to Stay in Vienna

Thanks to the city's great public transit system, you can easily access landmarks no matter where you're staying. But if you'd like to walk more, look to stay near the Innere Stadt, or the old town of Vienna.

Best luxury hotel in Vienna: Grand Hotel Wien

Best mid-tier hotel in Vienna: Max Brown 7th District

Best budget hotel in Vienna: St. Christopher's Vienna

Getting to Vienna

The Graben Shopping Street in Downtown Vienna Austria

Like most capitals, Vienna is easily accessible. Book a flight to Vienna International Airport, which is only 30 minutes from the city center on public transport.

Book a flight to Vienna

An Unconventional Itinerary

Most travelers don't even consider renting a car when they visit Vienna. And if you're planning on just staying in the city, you certainly don't need to.

But if you have the time and disposition for an adventure, take the opportunity for the road trip of a lifetime. Vienna is fairly close to the borders with Czechia, Slovakia and Hungary, so renting a car is an incredible way to go through all of these countries on a single trip.

Of course, you can also take the bus, but a car will enable you to stop along scenic viewpoints or get to know small towns along the way that aren't usually on the tourist radar.

Rent a car in Vienna

Runner Up: Zurich, Switzerland

Zurich is the second-most livable city in Europe. It's so perfect that it feels like Disneyland with a soul.

You'll never find a single piece of trash anywhere, as order is extremely important to the Swiss. The city's only downside is its high cost of living, which also translates to high costs for travelers.

Still, if you are willing to save up for a trip, the city is definitely worth visiting.

Where to stay: Boutique Hotel Wellenberg

Book a flight to Zurich

Rent a car in Zurich