The lobby of the Hotel Beethoven is an interesting blend of old and new; distressed leather chairs sit next to turquoise-striped crushed velvet couches and marble floors are illuminated by modern light fixtures from above. This blend of styles permeates the property, and Beethoven-inspired busts, statues, sheet music, and artifacts extend the hotel's theme throughout common spaces. A sweeping staircase and grand pillars in the lobby also add to the classic feel, while a cute little bistro bar in the lobby (serving drinks and light fare right by reception) helps make guests feel welcome. Loaner umbrellas are available should the weather take a nasty turn. 

The Ludwig family -- owners of the hotel -- are patrons of the arts and encourage guests to enjoy the rich cultural history of the area; hence, there’s around-the-clock concierge service to help you get tickets and take advantage of artistic offerings while you’re in town. A highlight for many guests are the private weekend music concerts located on the mezzanine level with sparkling wine during the interludes.

Situated in a quiet alley near the Naschmarkt -- Vienna's most popular market, which has been in existence since the 16th century -- yet very close to all the central spots in Vienna, the Hotel Beethoven Wien is a terrific place from which to branch out. Also within walking distance from the property are the Vienna State Opera, Theater an der Wien, Secession building, and Museum of Art History. The area has many restaurants and bars and a major subway interchange is nearby as well. Vienna International Airport is less than a half-an-hour drive northwest.

The Hotel Beethoven has much variation in its 47 guest rooms, and your experience will depend on what you book. Some units are small and sparsely decorated while others have brighter colors, elegant patterns, and more room to roam. There are interesting, quirky little details offered as well, like rotary phones and old-fashioned alarm clocks (the kind with actual clock faces). Other rooms sport more modern push-button and digital varieties. The bathrooms are clean, contemporary, and stocked with toiletries. Some have shower/tub combos while others only have showers. All rooms have minibars, free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and climate controls, though windows also open. Spaces here don’t have real views, but the hotel's side-street location helps ensure that your stay will be quiet. 

Though there’s no on-site restaurant here, the free breakfast buffet is topnotch, with a large variety of hot and cold selections served in a lovely chandelier-lit breakfast room. Additionally, the Beethoven Lounge on the mezzanine level, site of the free Sunday concerts, is a delightful place to convene. If you must conduct business on this trip, keep in mind that there’s only one small conference room which can accommodate 15 people max and no real dedicated business center, though there’s a computer/printer in the lobby which is handy for printing boarding passes. That being said, the free Wi-Fi and central location can still make the property a fine choice for business travelers, but it's better suited to tourists. Whatever the reason for your visit, the staff at the 24-hour front desk is always ready to help you take advantage of everything Vienna has to offer.