A five-star-superior palais on the Ringstrasse — built as a private palace for the Duke of Württemberg in the 1860s, converted to a hotel in 1873 and host to emperors, composers, and heads of state since. The Imperial Torte (an exclusive dark chocolate marzipan cake) was created here for Emperor Franz Joseph. Johann Strauss II premiered compositions in this building. Featured in the Vienna Blood period drama. The Musikverein concert hall is a two-minute walk — the choice for visitors focused on classical music.
Why We Chose It
The Imperial opened in 1873 as a converted palace of the Duke of Württemberg, and it remains Vienna’s most storied grande dame. Rooms blend Habsburg-era grandeur with modern refinement, the Opus restaurant holds a Michelin star, and 1001 Nacht offers late-night Viennese dining in gilded surroundings. Service follows the Austrian palace-hotel tradition — formal, precise, and unhurried.
What Stands Out
- Habsburg palace converted to hotel in 1873
- 1001 Nacht restaurant and Opus (Michelin-starred)
- Ringstrasse address near Vienna State Opera
- Imperial Torte — the hotel’s signature chocolate cake