Exploring Vienna : Stephansplatz

This is part of the series Exploring Vienna by Train Stations – basically going around Vienna’s famous attractions and restaurants one train station at a time.

Stephansplatz is a square/plaza located in the city’s geographic center. It is named after Vienna’s cathedral, the Stephansdom, one of the tallest churches in the world and the city’s most notable structure. Before the 20th century, a row of homes divided Stock-im-Eisen-Platz from Stephansplatz; however, after those houses were destroyed, the name Stephansplatz began to be used for the larger area encompassing both. The upscale shopping streets Graben (German for “ditch”) and Kärntner Straße (Carinthia in English) are located to the west and south of the area, respectively. The Haas-Haus, a notable example of contemporary Hans Hollein architecture, is located across from the Stephansdom. Stephansplatz is located in the heart of Vienna, directly above the train station Stephansplatz (trainline U1, U3) and is surrounded by several famous attractions.

Here are some of the most popular places, historical monuments and whatnots to see near Stephansplatz:

St. Stephen’s Cathedral (Stephansdom, Stephansplatz 3): This magnificent Gothic cathedral is the centerpiece of Vienna and a must-visit landmark. Climb the 343 steps to the top for stunning panoramic views of the city.

Vienna’s Pestsaüle (Graben 28) : also known as the Plague Column, is a historic monument located in the Graben, a prominent street in the city center. The Pestsaüle was erected in the early 18th century as a commemoration and expression of gratitude for the end of the devastating plague epidemic that struck Vienna in 1679. The epidemic claimed thousands of lives and left a lasting impact on the city.

It is an elaborate Baroque-style column made of marble. It stands tall and features a column adorned with intricate sculptures and reliefs. The column is decorated with various figures and symbols, including angels, cherubs, and allegorical representations of virtues such as Faith, Hope, and Charity. Inscriptions on the base of the column describe the purpose and history of the monument. The Pestsaüle has become a significant symbol of Vienna’s history and resilience in the face of adversity. It serves as a reminder of the city’s past and the hardships endured by its inhabitants during the plague epidemic.

Jewish Museum of the City of Vienna (Dorotheergasse 11- Palais Eskeles) : It’s the first Jewish museum of its kind in the world when it opened in Vienna in 1896. The “Society for the Collection and Preservation of Artistic and Historical Memorials of Jewry” funded and oversaw its operations. The museum’s collection of artifacts from the British Mandate of Palestine also served as a reflection of the political discussion surrounding Zionism at the time. Its primary concentration was on the culture and history of Jews in the Austro-Hungarian Empire, particularly in Vienna and Galicia. There is a second Jewish Museum in Vienna documenting the social, cultural and religious lives of Viennese Jews in the Middle Ages and is housed in the Misrachi House, on the Judenplatz.

Wien Museum Virgilkapelle/Vergilius Chapel : Near the Stephansdom, under the train station lies a subterranean crypt known as the Virgilkappelle. It has six compartments and is rectangular in shape. It lies currently around 12 meters below the Stephansplatz.

Graben and Kärntner Straße : These two adjacent streets are popular shopping destinations in Vienna. Explore the upscale boutiques, cafes, and traditional Viennese shops while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere.

Mozart’s House (Mozarthaus Vienna, Domgasse 5): Visit the former residence of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, located in the heart of Vienna. Explore the museum to learn about the life and works of the iconic composer.

Time Travel Vienna (Habsburgergasse 10A) – an interactive attraction that takes visitors on a journey through Vienna’s history – arious historical eras, from ancient Roman times to the Habsburg Empire, the plague, World War II – using multimedia technology and special effects.

Steffl (Kärntner Strasse) – a department Store at Kärntner Strasse, is an iconic landmark and a renowned shopping destination. It covers several floors of selling areas, and the rooftop has restaurants and bars where you can also have a panoramic view of Vienna.

Vienna’s Stephansplatz is surrounded by numerous dining options offering a variety of cuisines.

Here are some popular restaurants (fine and fast), bakeries, and gelaterias near Stephansplatz:

Figlmüller (Wollzeile 5) : Figlmüller is a renowned Viennese restaurant known for its traditional Austrian cuisine, particularly its schnitzels. It is famous for serving one of the largest and most delicious Wiener Schnitzels in Vienna, made from tenderized and breaded veal or pork. Figlmüller has a cozy and inviting atmosphere, making it a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.

Lugeck (Lugeck 4) : Lugeck is a stylish and contemporary Viennese restaurant located near St. Stephen’s Cathedral. It offers a modern take on Austrian cuisine while still honoring traditional flavors and techniques. Lugeck serves a variety of dishes, including Austrian classics with innovative twists, along with a carefully curated selection of wines.

Gasthaus Pöschl (Weihburggasse 17) : Gasthaus Pöschl is a charming Viennese gasthaus (inn) located in the heart of the city. It exudes a cozy and traditional ambiance, serving classic Austrian dishes prepared with locally sourced ingredients. Gasthaus Pöschl is known for its hearty portions, friendly service, and the warm atmosphere of a typical Viennese inn.

Aida (Singerstrasse 1) : a well-known Viennese café chain with several locations throughout the city. It has a distinctive retro style, characterized by its bright pink exterior and interior decor. Aida is famous for its wide selection of pastries, cakes, and confectionery. Visitors can indulge in traditional Austrian treats like Sachertorte (chocolate cake), Apfelstrudel (apple strudel), and various types of tortes and pastries. There is one directly in the middle of the plaza at #1 Singerstrasse.

Trzesniewski (Dorotheergasse 1) : This unique place is known for its open-faced sandwiches called “Trzesniewski.” They come in various flavors and make for a quick and tasty snack. Their tagline “The unspeakably good buns” come from the spelling that is difficult for people to pronounce.It is the surname of the Polish founder who established the bakery in 1902.

Chatanooga (Graben 29A) : A favorite by locals since the 1960’s, Chattanooga is available to guests every day of the year starting at 8am serving classic Viennese & international food. The café/grill has a seating for 70 in the air-conditioned restaurant and over 200 on the terrace/outside seating. It is a handy place to stop for lunch or dinner because it is very conveniently placed and it’s easy to get a seat on warm noon days or on a  chilly night.

Café Hawelka (Dorotheergasse 6) : Café Hawelka is an iconic establishment in Vienna that has been operating since 1939. This café is known for its cozy and nostalgic ambiance. The interior features dark wood furnishings, old photographs, and an overall rustic charm. Café Hawelka is particularly renowned for its Buchteln, which are sweet yeast dumplings filled with apricot jam and served with vanilla sauce. It’s a beloved spot for Viennese coffee, a strong and aromatic brew, and a place where artists, intellectuals, and locals have gathered for decades to engage in lively discussions and enjoy the café’s unique atmosphere.

Rinderwahn (Weihburggasse 3) : a comparatively new restaurant that offers burgers. Rinderwahn burgers come from the best barn – ensured with only the best quality beef from Austria. Rinderwahn also pays close attention to perfect ingredients. All burgers are served in a brioche bun with French fries and mad cow mayo. Optionally, you can also order your burger without a brioche bun but a salad bun! (For lowcarb practitioners!)

Zum Weißen Rauchfangkehrer (Weihburggasse 4) :  a popular restaurant serving traditional Austrian cuisine. It offers a cozy and rustic ambiance, with a menu featuring Austrian specialties like Wiener Schnitzel, Tafelspitz (boiled beef), and Kaiserschmarrn (fluffy shredded pancake). It’s a great choice for those looking for authentic Austrian flavors.

Kleines Café (Franziskanerplatz 3) : If you’ve watched the movie Before Sunrise, this is the café where Jesse and Celine sat at in the night. The owner is the Austrian actor Hanno Pöschl, who also played in the said film.

Kaffee Alt Wien (Bäckerstraße 9) : An old-fashioned cafe with vintage posters & low-lit interiors, serving goulasch & other hearty dishes. You can experience old Vienna less the glamour, plus the old-world feel and atmosphere when you dine here.

Figlmueller : Famous for its traditional Viennese schnitzel, Figlmueller is a must-visit restaurant. The schnitzels here are large and delicious.

Lugeck – Figlmüller (Lugeck 4) : A contemporary Austrian restaurant, Lugeck serves traditional dishes with a modern twist. The ambiance is cozy and inviting.

If you’re looking for hotels near Stephansplatz, here are a few options to consider:

Botique Hotel Am Stephansplatz (Stephansplatz 9) : This hotel is located directly at Stephansplatz, offering convenience and stunning views of St. Stephen’s Cathedral. It provides comfortable rooms, a bar, and a rooftop terrace.

DO & CO Hotel Vienna (Stephansplatz 12) : Situated right next to St. Stephen’s Cathedral, this boutique hotel offers modern and stylish rooms with panoramic views of the city. It features a rooftop restaurant and bar, a spa, and a fitness center.

Hotel König von Ungarn (Schulerstraße 10) : This historic hotel is a short walk from Stephansplatz and is one of Vienna’s oldest hotels, dating back to the 18th century. It offers elegant rooms, a courtyard garden, and a traditional Viennese restaurant.

Hotel Topazz: Located near Stephansplatz, this design hotel showcases a unique curved exterior. It offers contemporary rooms with stylish décor, a rooftop terrace, and a bar.

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