Originally Posted by
GiantCow
Wanted to get some thoughts on the location of this hotel for first time visitors to Vienna. Debating between paying cash here vs using points at the Park Hyatt.
I know the PH is much more centrally located but the Andaz doesn't look to be that out of the way and the cash prices are tempting. How is the public transportation in Vienna? In a city like say, Tokyo or Beijing, being 5-6 train stops away is nothing. Is it a trek to get from the Andaz to the central areas?
For a first time visitor, I would recommend the Park Hyatt for location. Depending on the time of year, there may be a Market (xmas/easter/others) on Am Hof right in front of the hotel, which is a treat. And you are really in the middle of everything, about 10 minute walk to most sights (except the Belvedere...). You can really just wander around and explore without a plan.
I've done both, and it's just a bit more coordination when you are staying at the Andaz, e.g. if you are traveling with others that might need to go back to the hotel for a rest. I also felt at the Andaz you could be staying anywhere in Europe, the surroundings are pretty generic. At the PH you
know you are in Vienna.
But yes, the trams are easy to pick up and get you to the Ringstrasse very quickly, it's a relatively small area, nothing like the cities you mentioned.
I'll put it this way. When I went for the Christmas Markets with my wife, we stayed at the PH. When I went with my Son to hit a few museums and wurstelstands, we stayed at the Andaz and both were great for the type of trip I was on.
Two tips: check out Ferstel Passage and the Wien (City History) Museum at Karlsplatz