Karntnerhof

At first glance, Kärntnerhof exudes the feel of a hotel frozen in time from the 1970s—right down to the groovy yellow signage. It’s just the kind of faded beauty we love.

Unfortunately, the hotel's rates are very much in line with modern times, in part no doubt thanks to recent renovations. While the location is great, there are other hotels in the Innere Stadt that offer superior value in the way of creature comforts.

Most of the 44 average-sized rooms have been modernized, though the beautiful wooden floors do remain. Larger, older rooms hint at what the Kärntnerhof used to be; these were our favorites. All rooms feature wireless and small satellite TVs. Bathrooms, with either a tub or shower, sparkle.

Don't miss the terrace on the roof with great views of the city. Another plus: the impressive staff friendliness. But for a building that was constructed in 1890, we can't help but wish that a bit more history were on display here.

Note: The Kärtnerhof does not offer strictly non-smoking rooms, so tobacco-phobes be warned that your guestroom may smell of smoke (even if you requested a non-smoking rooms).