Hotel Daniel Vienna

This 1960s-era building was originally designed by architect Georg Lippert, though it's anything but old-fashioned these days. Converted in 2011, the Daniel Hotel combines modern, industrial design with retro decor. It has a laid-back, hipster vibe, and the majority of staff here are young. Quirky elements abound, notably the boat artwork on the roof, created by the famous Austrian artist, Erwin Wurm. The stylish lobby has dark wood floors, upcycled crate tables, and a vintage bicycle suspended on the wall behind the front desk. The loft-style feel comes from the liberal use of open spaces combined with minimalist furniture. The lobby leads through to Daniel Bakery, which is a hotspot for brunch, especially on the weekends. Potted plants and climbing vines add an indoor-outdoor element, while sliding glass doors open to an outdoor terrace overlooking the yard -- home to a shiny aluminum trailer that doubles up as a guest room. The clientele is mixed, with many business travelers and tourists, though it's mostly geared toward the trend-conscious.

The Daniel Hotel is located in Landstrasse, next to a busy main road. The beautiful Belvedere Palace is situated right behind the property, providing an oasis of calm and tranquility in an otherwise bustling part of town. The easiest way to get around is by tram. Travelers should take tram route D to Schwarzenbergplatz, which is a great base to start exploring the city. Alternatively, it's around a 25-minute walk to the city center. Karntner Strasse is a go-to central shopping destination, and it's close to numerous restaurants, bars, and museums. Vienna Central Station is just a 10-minute stroll down the road, connecting travelers to the rest of Austria. Vienna International Airport is around a 15-minute drive from the hotel. 

The Hotel Daniel offers a variety of room types, though the look is similar across the board. All are compact and minimally decorated in a cozy-contemporary fashion, with some offering panoramic city views. Others have fun, playful quirks, such as indoor hammocks. The most unique guest room is the aluminum trailer, which is parked outside on the front yard. In fact, the aesthetic throughout the rooms might best be described as loft-camping. Pillowtop beds are dressed in crisp, white bedding, crowned with dark wood headboards and low-hanging industrial ceiling lights. Due to the minimalist aesthetic (and tight layouts), rooms have very little furniture. Guests should note there are no closets, just hangers. Modern amenities include flat-screen TVs, air-conditioning, safes, phones, and free Wi-Fi, though minibars and electric kettles are notably absent. Green-tiled bathrooms are small and partially open, which may cause privacy issues for some. All bathrooms have vessel sinks, walk-in rainfall showers, separate toilets, hairdryers, and free eco-friendly toiletries. It's worth noting that some rooms can be noisy, though park-facing rooms tend to be quieter. 

Design aside, the hotel adds plenty of perks to draw hipsters in droves. The restaurant, Daniel Bakery, serves international cuisine for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Breakfast is a daily buffet though there is an additional fee for this. Guests can also buy freshly baked cakes, pastries, and flans here throughout the day. The restaurant gets busy at the weekends, especially on Sunday's during its popular brunch, so it's a good idea to book in advance. The hotel has its own beehive on the roof, from which it makes its own honey. Honey products, clothing, and bespoke souvenirs can be bought from the hotel's shop, located next to the lobby. Guests can hire bicycles and Vespas from the front desk, which is open around the clock. Other services include laundry and dry cleaning, and Wi-Fi is free throughout. There is an extra charge for parking and pets.