K+K Palais Hotel

Like much of imperial Vienna, the K+K Palais Hotel building was originally owned by an emperor (though it was mostly a home for his mistress). Much of that history remains -- at least from the outside. The entry combines the beautifully preserved facade with a clean-lined fenestration pattern. In the reception area, creamy marble floors join the lobby, small bar, and seating areas, each of which features blond woods and classic furnishings with jewel-toned fabrics. Pendant lamps hang over the reception desk. The dining area is separate, and closed off after breakfast is served, though the bar does have a small menu. Most of the guests here are couples on vacation who spend little time in the hotel after the morning meal, and it's mostly a clean and quiet place to sleep at night.

The immediate area surrounding the hotel is residential, but cafes, shops, and attractions are nearby. It's a 10-minute walk to St. Stephen's Cathedral, a 10-minute walk to the Imperial Palace, and a 16-minute walk to the Albertina Museum. The MAK Museum of Applied Arts is also 16 minutes away on foot, and there are several art galleries in the area as well. For guests who wish to travel outside the First District, there are two U-Bahn stops seven minutes away on foot, either east or west of the hotel. The Vienna International Airport is just 23 minutes away by car.

Rooms at the K+K Palais Hotel are mostly spacious and they differ little in terms of underwhelming decor. The overall look is drab, with a brown and maroon color palette and small prints hung on the walls. Beds come in twin, double, king sizes, and triple configurations are available. Extras like minibars, flat-screen TVs, free bottled water, kettles, and high quality furniture all make for welcome touches. Upgraded rooms provide more space and park views. Small bathrooms feature vessel sinks and heated floors. Most bathrooms have simple showers, but more expensive rooms come with shower/tub combos. Toiletries and wall-mounted hairdryers are provided. 

Features here are limited, though on par with Vienna's three-pearl options. The highlight is the breakfast buffet, which includes scrambled eggs, cold meats, cheeses, breads, pastries, fresh fruit, yogurt, gluten-free options, and coffee. The meal isn't included in room rates, though it can be purchased when reserving the room. There's also a small bar with a limited menu. Though the hotel draws mostly couples, there's a small business center and conference room. Wi-Fi is fast and free, and guests can borrow a tablet with tourist-friendly apps. There's also nearby parking, for a fee, as well as bicycle rentals. The hotel offers babysitting services and pets may stay for an additional fee.