Vienna is consistently ranked as one of the most livable cities in the world, and it’s easy to see why: clean streets, stunning architecture, and a lifestyle that balances culture, nature, and convenience. But not all districts are created equal. Some are lively but gritty, others calm but distant, and a few are the city’s absolute jewels. In this post, we’ll rank the districts of Vienna from the least desirable to the best, so you can decide where you might want to live.
Tier 1 — The Least Attractive Districts
These areas are not dangerous, but they’re rougher, noisier, or simply less polished than the rest of Vienna.
Favoriten (10th District)
Favoriten is big, dense, and full of life — sometimes too much life. Around Keplerplatz and Reumannplatz, streets are noisier, and cleanliness can vary. The area is affordable but lacks the charm of central Vienna. It’s ideal for those who prioritize budget over aesthetics.
Rudolfsheim-Fünfhaus – Gürtel Area (15th District)
The Gürtel area feels rough, especially at night, with occasional street drinking and louder nightlife. Some streets are surprisingly charming, but the overall vibe is gritty. It’s improving slowly but still not polished.
Ottakring – Gürtel Area & Station Zone (16th District)
Ottakring is split: the hill streets are lovely, but the Gürtel and station areas can feel chaotic. The late-night street scene is louder, and the district has a mix of charm and chaos. Location matters — some streets feel great, others not so much.
Brigittenau (20th District)
Brigittenau is functional but visually uninspiring. Close to major transport hubs, you’ll notice more homeless people and a colder, concrete-heavy environment. It’s completely safe, but not exactly inviting.
Tier 2 — Practical and Affordable
Safe and functional, with decent infrastructure, but not particularly stunning.
Meidling (12th District)
Meidling is practical: reliable transport, everyday shopping, and mostly ordinary apartment blocks. Buildings are older and not particularly aesthetic, giving a utilitarian feel. It’s one of the best districts for budget-conscious city dwellers.
Simmering (11th District)
Simmering mixes residential areas with industrial zones, creating a heavier atmosphere. It’s calm, safe, and inexpensive, but not trendy or elegant. Perfect for families who value practicality.
Penzing – Standard Residential Areas (14th District)
Some parts of Penzing are leafy and pleasant, but most of the district is just quiet, average suburban housing. Safe and stable, it’s suitable for families on a budget. Location and street choice matter here.
Floridsdorf (21st District)
Floridsdorf feels like a small city within Vienna. It has large housing complexes, wide streets, and suburban calm. Parks and the Danube are nice, but the architectural charm is limited. Best for families who don’t mind commuting.
Donaustadt (22nd District)
Donaustadt is modern, spacious, and clean, with lots of green areas and water. It’s comfortable and family-friendly, but distant from the historic center. Car access improves convenience but can feel disconnected from the urban vibe.
Tier 3 — Trendy, Young, and Creative
Lively, exciting, and popular with young professionals, students, and creatives.
Mariahilf (6th District)
Mariahilf is bustling and urban, centered around Mariahilfer Straße, Vienna’s busiest shopping street. Cafés, galleries, and bars give the area a vibrant energy. It’s exciting, central, and perfect for young professionals — but peaceful? Not so much.
Neubau (7th District)
Neubau is the hipster heart of Vienna: vintage boutiques, independent cafés, and street art everywhere. The district is lively, attractive, and creative, but apartments are small and increasingly expensive.
Wieden (4th District)
Wieden combines artistic flair with elegant old architecture, particularly near Naschmarkt and Karlsplatz. Cafés, local shops, and an international feel make it highly desirable. A balanced mix of charm, energy, and centrality.
Josefstadt (8th District)
Compact, cultured, and intellectual, Josefstadt is ideal for academics and creative thinkers. Beautiful streets, calm atmosphere, and central location make it charming, refined, and highly sought after.
Alsergrund (9th District)
Alsergrund is elegant and academic, with historic buildings, hospitals, and universities. Lively but never overwhelming, it attracts professionals and students alike. Intellectual charm meets urban convenience.
Tier 4 — Excellent Family-Friendly Districts
Safe, green, quiet, and perfect for families seeking a stable lifestyle.
Landstraße (3rd District)
Landstraße offers parks, embassies, and peaceful residential streets. It’s central without chaos, and the area around Belvedere and Stadtpark adds beauty and tranquility. Highly recommended for families.
Leopoldstadt (2nd District)
Home to Prater and Augarten, Leopoldstadt is green, walkable, and safe. The district is multicultural and family-friendly, with only the Praterstern area feeling slightly rough at night. Perfect balance of urban life and green spaces.
Währing (18th District)
Währing is leafy, calm, and known for excellent schools. Streets are quiet and elegant, attracting families seeking stability. Close enough to the center while maintaining a suburban feel.
Hernals (17th District)
Hernals feels relaxed and neighborly, with green streets and access to Vienna’s hills. Safe, quiet, and family-oriented, it offers a slower pace of life in the city.
Penzing – Green Western Areas (14th District, Hütteldorf Side)
The western side of Penzing is leafy, peaceful, and village-like. Green streets, family-friendly housing, and a good transport connection make it a big upgrade from other parts of the district.
Tier 5 — The Best and Most Prestigious
High prestige, beautiful architecture, safety, and greenery — the top of Vienna living.
Innere Stadt (1st District)
The historic center is breathtaking, full of palaces, museums, and cafés. Living here is luxurious but expensive, and tourist crowds are constant. Perfect if you want to experience Vienna like a living postcard.
Döbling (19th District)
Döbling offers villas, vineyards, and hills with stunning views. Areas like Grinzing and Cottage are quiet, elite, and green. Highly desirable for wealthy locals and expats alike.
Hietzing (13th District — Elite Areas)
Near Schönbrunn, Hietzing is peaceful and elegant, with parks, villas, and quiet streets. Ideal for families seeking safety, greenery, and upscale living.
Währing – Premium Zones (18th District, Upper Währing)
Upper Währing features historic villas, quiet streets, and great schools. It’s prestigious without being flashy, perfect for academics and upper-middle-class families.
Alsergrund – Premium Zones (9th District)
Elegant streets, historic buildings, and intellectual culture. Close to everything central, calm, and highly convenient. One of the most desirable addresses in Vienna.
Conclusion
Vienna offers a district for every lifestyle: from vibrant youth hubs and practical affordable areas to green, family-friendly neighborhoods and prestigious, luxury zones. Almost every district is safe, but atmosphere, charm, and convenience vary widely. Whether you’re a student, family, professional, or expat chasing Vienna’s elite lifestyle, knowing the right district will make all the difference.
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