K & T Boardinghouse

With just three available rooms, K & T Boardinghouse is easily the smallest hotel in our Vienna listings. It's also one of the best. This boardinghouse, which doubles as the owner's home, is an elegant oasis off the busy Mariahilferstrasse. Walk farther down the main drag towards the Innere Stadt and you'll reach the ring in about ten minutes. Walk away from it and you'll reach the Westbahnhof. Outside, the crowds teem and gawk at the shops. The K & T may lack in traditional amenities, but with this level of service and these low rates, amenities are an afterthought.

There's nothing design-y about the rooms here; they look less like a hotel and more like an extra bedroom at the house of a friend who likes IKEA, parquet flooring, and blond wood furniture. But dig the view: Some of the windows look out directly onto Mariahilferstrasse below or onto a courtyard. Rooms are quite spacious. Books line the walls, and the bathrooms are brand new. Be sure to say hello to the house's pet turtle when you arrive.

Rooms have cable television, and in a pinch, will fit up to five people. Despite being on the third floor, there's no elevator, so pack light.

Also note that while the K & T accepts cash, you must make a reservation with a credit card. Free Wi-Fi is available in the lobby.