Hotels in Austria

Opened in 1870, this Belle Epoque grande dame was the headquarters of the International Atomic Energy Agency for many years in the last century. The rooms retain an "old-world and palatial" feel, with rich fabrics and antiques. Though the three restaurants, serving Japanese, Viennese, and French cuisine, "could be better," the hotel's location a block from the Vienna State Opera draws plaudits.

205 rooms

"You can feel the history in the lobby's drapes and furnishings" the moment you enter this 1892 building. Deluxe rooms with antiques, silk wall tapestries, and marble bathrooms have French windows that open onto the Ringstrasse. An illuminated onyx wall creates a private dining niche at Restaurant Korso, which recently added an outdoor terrace.

140 rooms

Set among fifteenth-century buildings in the Salzburg Festival District, this "small and homey inn",formerly run by an Austrian countess,is replete with regional art and antiques. Individually designed rooms have local antiques; accommodations in the Festival Wing were recently remodeled and have bathrooms with handmade Italian tiles. Common areas come with high ceilings and antlers. For local staples like Nurnberger sausages with sauerkraut, visit the "pub-like" Restaurant Herzl.

69 rooms

This late-1800s hotel near the Salzach River affords "impressive views of the Old Town",not the least from the Roter Salon, which serves regional and international cuisine. Rooms combine original paintings, antiques, and silk wallpaper with modern-day amenities such as air-conditioning and Internet service. "The concierge went the extra mile to get us tickets for a sold-out opera."

116 rooms

This lakefront castle east of Salzburg finished a refurbishment in July 2006, adding a spa to the annex. Tower suites in Renaissance, Empire, Baroque, or Biedermeier styles have new bathrooms and parquet floors. Restaurant Imperial's creations include Alsatian frog's legs with artichokes, and jellied gazpacho with scallops. The wine cellar stocks Bordeaux selections dating from 1900.

110 rooms

Amenities: Golf, Pool, Spa

At this onetime apartment block on the Ringstrasse, modern, parquet-floor rooms in shades of olive, blue, and pink are minimalist "but don't sacrifice functionality or comfort for style." The Shambala Bar, with sleek lighting and seating, draws Vienna's night owls; the streetside Cafe Boulevard serves coffee and pastries. Front-desk staff are "very professional and very prompt."

294 rooms

Amenities: Pool