For a long time, Vienna topped the list of the world's most livable cities in numerous rankings. But then came the Covid 19 pandemic and Vienna slipped to twelfth place due to stringent measures that massively restricted public life. A year - and the lifting of drastic regulations - later, Vienna is climbing back to the top spot and once again shining as the world's most livable city as The Economist just announced.

Back on top: the Austrian metropolis is once again considered the most livable city in the world. © Vienna Tourist Board/Christian Stemper

Welcome to Vienna, the most livable city in the world

The study evaluates criteria such as the healthcare system, education, culture and infrastructure, as well as social security, political stability and the crime rate - all areas in which the Austrian capital regularly excels. Vienna stands out with its excellent offerings not only among residents, but also among visitors. Culture fanatics can delve into the depths of art history in numerous renowned museums and lose themselves in the diversity of contemporary masterpieces; a diverse range of theatre productions finds favour with lovers of action art; and as a centre of classical music, Vienna scores full marks with music-loving visitors anyway.

A visit to the Theater an der Wien is an absolute highlight for fans of performing arts. © WienTourismus/Paul Bauer

Culinary Vienna inspires with a wide range of traditional and international cuisine. With a multitude of new sophisticated eateries, the Austrian metropolis is in no way inferior to other world cities - on the contrary, many new standards are being set here. What remains unchanged is the city's classic coffeehouse culture, which is as upscale and classy as ever. The notorious unfriendliness of the waiters merely adds to the charm of the experience.

The old-world charm of Vienna's coffeehouses, like here at Demel's in the first district, remains sacrosanct. © Vienna Tourist Board/Peter Rigaud

In addition, Vienna is perfect for simply strolling around and taking in the corners steeped in history. The former imperial city awaits curious visitors with countless surprises. Even if you think you already know the city inside out, there is always something new to discover. Therefore, the best tip even for initiated visitors is: in Vienna, you should always look up. The tops and roofs of the buildings regularly amaze even residents of the world's most livable city.

From dramatic palaces like the Belvedere to traditional downtown residences, Vienna's architecture is always good for surprises. © Vienna Tourist Board/Paul Bauer

The best addresses in Vienna

As the world's most livable city, Vienna is also becoming increasingly international. Within the last year alone, the city has welcomed a host of new hotels and restaurants that promise top service and top cuisine.

Places to stay

The luxurious Park Hyatt Vienna is considered one of the best - and most exclusive - hotels in the city. With its location in the Golden Quarter, you're right in the heart of the first district and in close proximity to the best shopping hotspots. © Hyatt Corporation

Park Hyatt Vienna
Am Hof 2, 1010 Vienna
Tel.: +43 1 227401234
Web: hyatt.com
Price: double room from € 603,- per night

One of the newest properties, Hotel Indigo Vienna Naschmarkt is a relaxed address a bit away from the hustle and bustle in a popular residential area not far from the iconic Naschmarkt. © IHG

Hotel Indigo Vienna Naschmarkt
Rechte Wienzeile 87, 1050 Vienna
Tel.: +43 1 8909373
Web: ihg.com/hotelindigo
Price: double room from € 127,- per night

With the opening of the Rosewood Vienna on August 1, the city has gained a new luxury hotel. The elegant rooms shine in opulent modern splendor and invite guests to linger in the center. © Rosewood Hotels & Resorts

Rosewood Vienna
Petersplatz 7, 1010 Vienna
Tel.: +1 214 880 4365
Web: rosewoodhotels.com
Price: double room from € 1.100,- per night

Dreamy Parisian charm and fantastic drinks can be enjoyed at Hotel Die Josefine, which opened last year in the heart of the hip sixth district. © The Josefine

The Josefine
Esterházygasse 33, 1060 Vienna
Tel.: +43 1 58870
Web: hoteljosefine.at
Price: double room from € 220,- per night

Where to eat

At Café Kandl you can enjoy relaxed cuisine and excellent drinks at the highest level. On warm summer evenings, the guest garden in the inner courtyard is a special highlight. © Café Kandl

Café Kandl
Kandlgasse 12/2, 1070 Vienna
Tel.: +43 1 890893815
Web: cafekandl.at

Mediterranean vacation feeling and beach vibes all year round: The Molcho family's latest gastro coup, located on Vienna's trendy Donaukanal, promises Mediterranean cuisine to share. © Nuriel Molcho

Neni by the water
Obere Donaustraße 65, 1020 Vienna
Tel.: +43 1 4380038
Web: neni.at

With its creative fare, the Japanese restaurant SHIKI is one of Vienna's undisputed top eateries. © Lisi Niesner

SHIKI Japanese Fine Dining
Krugerstrasse 3, 1010 Vienna
Tel.: +43 1 5127397
Web: shiki.at

Weibel's Wirtshaus is highly recommended to all those who want to enjoy traditional Austrian cuisine. The restaurant in the city center has been one of the best addresses among Vienna's residents for decades - and is still a real insider tip among visitors. © martinsteiger.at

Weibel's Inn
Kumpfgasse 2, 1010 Vienna
Tel.: +43 1 5123986
Web: weibel.at/inn

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