Anantara debuts in Austria with revitalised Palais Hansen Vienna hotel

Travel Daily News

06-05-2025

Anantara Palais Hansen Vienna Hotel has emerged from a glamorous refresh, marking a new era of urban hospitality in the Austrian capital and the official debut of the brand in the country. Designed by the celebrated architect Baron Theophil Edvard von Hansen for the 1873 World's Fair, the heritage palace now stands as the city's first urban luxury resort, where history and modernity are in constant dialogue.
Originally built as a hotel, the storied landmark later served as a residential complex and a public administration building, before returning to its hospitality roots in 2011. With over 150 years of history, it remains one of the finest examples of Viennese Neo-Renaissance architecture. From original marble floors and stucco ceilings to ionic columns and heritage-listed staircases, many of the palace's public spaces bear Hansen's signature.
The hotel blends historical grandeur with contemporary comfort and Asian-inspired hospitality. Located on the Ringstrasse in Vienna's historic financial district, just steps from the charming Servitenviertel, or Vienna's 'Little Paris', Anantara Palais Hansen offers a unique atmosphere that combines Viennese soul with cosmopolitan elegance.
The renovation has revitalised the hotel's 152 guest rooms and suites, creating an intimate sanctuary draped in warm neutrals. A thoughtful interplay of materials, including smooth and porous surfaces, glossy and matte finishes, maximises the natural light streaming in from the three inner courtyards. Luxurious touches, such as marble bathrooms, Acqua di Parma amenities and triple-glazing for uninterrupted rest, are complemented by soaring 3.5-metre ceilings and oversized windows that amplify the sense of space. In select rooms and suites, balconies serve as a standout feature, while the most exclusive accommodations boast sweeping views of the tree-lined Ringstrasse.
The Presidential Suite, Vienna's largest at 270 square metres, is framed by seven French balconies and comes with a lounge centred on a grand piano for private concerts; a dining area for gastronomy-focused entertaining; and a wellness space anchored by a window-side marble bath. On request, the suite expands to four bedrooms, reaching 408 square metres.
The hotel's gastronomic landscape unfolds through three concepts. At Edvard, the Michelin-starred fine-dining destination, head chef Paul Gamauf's avant-garde cuisine is presented in tasting sets that evolve with natural rhythms. In his skilled hands, impeccably sourced ingredients are spun into sustainable and low-waste dishes and beverages.
At Theo's Lounge & Bar, nestled in the former inner courtyard, Viennese coffee house culture meets high mixology. By day, homemade cakes and pastries such as the iconic apple strudel take centre stage. As night falls, Theo's transforms into a vibrant destination bar serving smart cocktails made with local brandies, seasonal ingredients and repurposed produce. Weekly events – from bar takeovers to live music nights – lend the refined venue a dynamic energy. Meanwhile, the newly launched Brasserie Sophie, named after Hansen's wife, reimagines Austrian cuisine through a global lens, as well as hosting monthly themed brunches.
At the 800-square-metre Anantara Spa, the brand's 'East meets West' wellness philosophy is felt profoundly. The six treatment rooms, including a couples' suite and a women-only area, are complemented by a Finnish sauna, a Hammam-style steam bath and a sanarium. Beyond signature journeys and muscle-melting massages, wellness extends to high-tech therapies, including intense pulsed light therapy, body contouring and advanced facials with Valmont and Elemis. Workouts take place in the adjacent fitness centre, with scenic jogging routes easily accessible along the Danube Canal and the Ringstrasse.
Walkable and picturesque, Vienna is perfect for on-foot exploration. History buffs can join a guided tour with a Hansen expert, followed by a visit to the storied atelier Lobmeyr, where chandeliers, glassware and decorative art for Hansen's palaces were once made. During the warmer months, guests can visit a scenic vineyard located within Vienna's city limits and offering spectacular views, with expert insights into winemaking and a picnic of typical 'Heurigen' or tavern-style food and local wine. On property, Anantara chefs lead dynamic cooking classes as part of the Spice Spoons experience, focusing on such local classics as semolina dumpling soup and beloved Kaiserschmarren pancakes.
The hotel features Vienna's largest ballroom, which accommodates up to 265 guests and boasts ample natural daylight, independent street access and a Hansen-designed foyer. With an executive boardroom, a private reading room and eight additional meeting spaces, the hotel is an ideal venue for weddings, conferences, and private events.
Anantara Palais Hansen Vienna Hotel is a 25-minute drive from Vienna International Airport (VIE).