The Best Room At... Hotel Sacher
It started with something sweet. In 1832, Franz Sacher, a 16-year-old apprentice chef, created The Original Sacher-Torte–a moist chocolate cake with hidden layers of apricot jam–at the request of Austrian Prince Metternich. Shortly after, the treat became a sensation among the Viennese, and Sacher opened his own delicatessen dedicated to the pastry.
Sacher’s son, Eduard, would later open Vienna’s Hotel Sacher in 1876 with his father’s pastry as its signature dessert. Viennese aristocrats, intellectuals, and the wealthy flocked to the hotel. But, it was Eduard’s Wife, Anna Sacher, who turned it into a glamorous destination where discernment and exclusivity were at the forefront.
This is still the case today. Located in the heart of Vienna, the destination is a jewel box of old-world grandeur—without the dust. Salon-like public rooms outfitted in rich velvets, jewel-toned upholstery, silk curtains, and bespoke chandeliers create luxurious settings to indulge in liquid libations and sweet treats. The 152 rooms and suites offer a subdued elegance with amenities like working fireplaces and grand marble bathtubs.
Hotel Sacher is just across the street from the Viennese Opera House and, if you fancy a bit of art, the Leopold Museum and Albertina Museum are a 10-minute stroll away. Another fantastic exhibition is on the walls of the hotel itself: pictures of guests including Naomi Campbell, Queen Elizabeth II, John F. Kennedy, Sharon Stone, and Justin Bieber.
Here, we speak with Alexandra Winkler, the hotel’s owner and managing director, about the wonders of the hotel and which room, in her opinion, reigns supreme.
What do you consider to be the best room at the property and why?
My favorite room is the Vienna Philharmonic Suite, located on the bel étage of the hotel, with a direct view of the Vienna State Opera. The suite’s design seamlessly blends historical charm with modern elegance, making it truly exceptional.
The parquet flooring, dating back to 1874, reflects the original décor of Ringstrasse building, and the stucco ceiling, dating back to the 1900s, features intricate tendrils, blossoms, and gilded accents. Its corners are adorned with medallions, depicting shells, women’s faces, and complemented by floral frescoes and vase embellishments.
Adding to the grandeur of the suite is a magnificent crystal chandelier by the Lobmeyr company. The suite’s colors feature the iconic Sacher red paired with taupe, creating a regal yet inviting atmosphere. The art in the suite reflects Imperial Vienna, and features one of my favorite art pieces: a portrait of Emperor Franz Joseph.
This exceptional suite was designed in collaboration with the renowned designer Pierre-Yves Rochon, whose expertise perfectly highlights its timeless elegance and historic significance.
How much does it cost per night?
The suite begins at €10,000 per night.
How would you describe the guests and vibe at the hotel?
I would describe our guests as discerning travelers who value exceptional, first-class service, timeless luxury, rich history, exclusivity, and the finer experiences life has to offer. This includes sophisticated connoisseurs seeking an authentic Viennese experience, culture enthusiasts drawn to art and music, as well as celebrities or public figures who value privacy. Of course there are also business travelers, romantic couples, and refined tourists.
What feeling about Vienna do you hope to impart to guests?
The hotel preserves its history by maintaining original details, such as ornate ceilings and parquet floors, while seamlessly integrating modern amenities to meet the expectations of today’s travelers. We honor Viennese traditions, such as serving a Wiener Schnitzel, while also offering contemporary culinary experiences. The hotel blends timeless elegance with innovation, including state-of-the art-technology. This balance ensures it appeals to both loyal guests and modern travelers.
What’s a local attraction that you always recommend?
Similar to Hotel Sacher, Scheer Shoes is one of the few establishments that holds the Imperial and Royal Warrant of Appointment. Not only does this honour connect us, but it is also much more. Many of our guests have had shoes made by Scheer Shoes back in the old days, as well as today. Each pair of shoes is a custom-made product, handcrafted from the finest materials. Also, the Schönbrunn Zoo—voted multiple times as the best zoo in Europe and recognized as the oldest zoo in the world—is a fantastic idea for families travelling with children. Located just 20 minutes from the Sacher, the zoo is home to over 700 different kinds of animals. Schönbrunn is also a UNESCO world heritage site of the first naturally conceived birth of African elephants and pandas in human care.
You Might Also Like
