The Ritz-Carlton, Vienna

Spanning four historic palaces on the Ring, The Ritz-Carlton, Vienna marries classic architecture with modern design and thoughtful service. Air-conditioned rooms and suites include free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, minibars, and Geneva sound systems with iPod docks; marble bathrooms feature both bath and shower with robes, slippers, and toiletries. The Ritz-Carlton Spa offers the largest indoor pool in Vienna’s center—complete with underwater music—plus a fitness room, separate men’s and women’s saunas and steam baths, and three private spa suites using Susanne Kaufmann products. Dining highlights include Dstrikt Steakhouse for Austrian dry-aged beef and local sides, inventive cocktails at D-bar, and the seasonal Atmosphere Rooftop Bar for skyline views. A Club Lounge adds private check-in, dedicated concierge help, and day-long food and drinks (including champagne). St. Stephen’s Cathedral, Hofburg, and the State Opera are all a pleasant walk away; nearby tram and U-Bahn stops make the rest of the city effortless.