Star Inn Hotel Premium Wien Hauptbahnhof, by Quality

One of the German Star Inn chain, Hotel Premium Wien Hauptbahnhof is a modern building with a striking checkerboard exterior that's a clue to how far from classic Vienna you'll be during a stay here. We mean that literally and figuratively, though most guests don't seem to mind the distance from the city's historic First District because of the hotel's proximity to the Ubahn metro system. Inside, the lobby is bright and spacious, with an open-plan bar and cafe area. The decor is modern and largely monochrome, with pops of yellow and purple in the comfortable lounge area. It's a functional property, and trades mostly on its location next to the city's main transport hub: Wien Hauptbahnhof. The large photograph of a historic steam train in the cafeteria reflects this fact. The atmosphere can be busy with a mix of guests staying here -- some passing through for just a night between trains, some here for a weekend break, and others in the city for business. 

Star Inn Hotel Premium Wien Hauptbahnhof is located just behind the city's main train station. There's plenty to do locally, with Columbus Center shopping a five-minute walk away, and pretty Schweizergarten Park -- home to the Modern Art Museum -- about the same distance away. It's 10 minutes on foot to the Military History Museum, and 15 to Belvedere Palace and its stunning gardens. That being said, the touristy heart of the city requires some maneuvering to reach. However, the metro or tram both depart from Hauptbahnhof, which is around a five-minute walk away. Journey time to the city center is about 15 minutes door-to-door. Connections are also easy for attractions farther afield -- it's about a 20-minute trip to Prater Park and 40 minutes to Schonbrunn Palace. The express train to the airport takes just 15 minutes, or it's about a 20-minute drive. 

Rooms in the Star Inn have a contemporary, Scandinavian-inspired finish, with crisp white linens and pale wood-effect furniture, coupled with dark wood floors. Patterned accent walls add a pop of character, though there's not exactly a wealth of classic Viennese style to be found. Amenities are high-end across all rooms, including Nespresso machines, individually controlled air-conditioning, free Wi-Fi, mini-fridges, and 42-inch flat-screen TVs. There's plenty of storage space, and large desks are helpful for anyone traveling on business. Family Rooms include two double beds, and Accessible Rooms are available. The sleek bathrooms have counter-top sinks, large rainfall showers, hairdryers, and pump products. 

Features are thin at this mid-range hotel, though it's a rare three-pearl hotel in Vienna that offers a wealth of leisure options on-site. There's a bright dining room that serves a daily buffet breakfast that includes hot and cold options (fee), and plenty of sitting space in the lobby lounge. The reception and the bar are open 24/7, and the bar serves light snacks all day. There's an internet station in the lobby too, and Wi-Fi is free throughout the hotel.