Gay Local Tips in Vienna

Waltz into the Imperial City

Herbert & Joachim are Fabul'hosts from Vienna. This imperial city is immortalized by history, and one can feel this grand history all around. The city is nevertheless modern and innovative, making it a delicious destination for LGBTQ travelers. The guys do not hold back as they explain the best food, drinks and excitement to have in the city. Explore Vienna. Experience your pride.

How gay-friendly is your city? What’s gay life like there?

Vienna is a cosmopolitan and open-minded city that combines tradition with modern lifestyle. So it is no wonder that next to the famous Opera Ball, there are several other typical Vienna-style events for a diverse audience such as the famous Life Ball, Rosenball or Technoball. In 2019, Vienna will be the host city for Europride, which is going to be a really cool event!

What are the best gay events that take place in your city each year?

The 26th Life Ball will take place on Saturday, June 8, 2019 and is definitely worth attending. Vienna Pride is also pretty momentous, and this year it will last for two weeks. For fourteen days, Austria's capital will be the meeting point for the LGBTQ community, offering many evenings of artistic and informative events, live performances, and of course the incredible Rainbow Parade, which will kick off on June 15, 2019.

_{© IG/art_ilknurbakis}

We only have 48 hours in your city. What can’t we miss?

Start your Saturday morning with a nice brunch at the famous Naschmarkt, where you can enjoy delicious food from many different cultures while listening to good DJs. After that, you can stroll through the biggest flea market and find some nice gadgets. Then lose yourself in the outdoor maze of the glamorous Schönbrunn Castle. When you have finally found your way out, jump into the nearby Schönbrunner Bad - a public pool which attracts a very handsome gay crowd. Alternatively, you can take the underground to the Old and New Danube. It is a recreational area you should not miss, especially during the summer. If you prefer swimming with a stunning view, just visit the Krapfenwaldbad where you can get an amazing look over the whole city. Of course you cannot miss the main touristic sights if you are here for the first time, for example: a dinner at the Donauturm, a ride on the Giant Wheel, and a visit to the beautiful Saint Stephan’s Cathedral.

What’s your favorite gay place to grab a bite for lunch? A nice dinner?

No matter if it is for brunch, lunch or dinner, the Naschmarkt is always a good choice (except on Sundays). If you prefer a fancy crowd, go to Motto or Motto am Fluss. For a pre-game, we recommend the Loft on the top floor of the Sofitel Hotel, which offers an amazing view of downtown Vienna. Another great place is the Lamee Rooftop bar. On Saturday, stroll along the brunch offers at the Naschmarkt, which is located near the underground station 'Kettenbrückengasse' on the green line U4. However, don't go there on a Sunday as it is closed. Also Motto am Fluss is a famous place for brunch within the gay community.

Best gay place and day for a cheap beer or happy hour?

Start your party at FELIXX, a beautiful gay bar in the gay district. You can proceed to Village, which is within walking distance. It is a popular bar with a big video wall to watch and listen to the latest pop songs. On Fridays and Saturdays it is often very crowded.

We’re ready to party! What are the best gay clubs?

The younger gays prefer to continue the party at the oldest gay club of Austria: Why Not. There is free entrance before midnight, and if there are no other special clubbing nights in town it is always packed. Compared to other big cities, Vienna is a city with frequent club nights once a month like the Astronaughty or KEN Club, which play more pop and dance music that attracts a younger audience. Replay is a house club for muscled guys, while Pitbull always attracts the bear community with different themes like sportwear, uniform, leather. Check out their homepage or facebook page so you have the right attire. It is always fun, even if you are not particularly into that sort of scene.

What are the best alternative gay bars and clubs where you live?

Check out everything promoted under Meat Market. It offers high-quality, electronic music and it is mostly housed in a club called Grelle Forelle, which has extremely good sound quality. Sometimes it takes place at Werk, which is a bit more trashy but the music is always really good. Check out Meat Market, Fish Market, or F*cken Plus if you like good techno music with famous and professional DJs. If you are more into the crazy trashy party style, you should check out Rhinoplastic, located at 'Karlsplatz' underground station.

Are there any places related to LGBTQ history?

Check out the gay sauna, Kaiserbründl, which is the spa of the former Austrian Emperor.

Can you share a secret or little-known place to visit in your city?

During Christmas time, visit the festive market called Spittelberg. During summer time, walk along the small Danube canal where you will find a series of beach cafes (Telavic Beach). Feel the sand between your toes or jump into the pool, refered to as the 'Badeschiff'.

Any beaches, parks or best other places to chill out?

Take a little boat and enjoy the 'Old Danube' - a wonderful green place. What makes Vienna unique is the Danube Island, where you can go for a relaxing stroll and take a break from the vibrant city life. If it gets too quiet for you or you want a drink after the walk, stop by the Vienna City Beach Club, which always has good DJs and music while you cool down your feet in the New Danube.

Where can we get the best view of Vienna?

Drive up to Kahlenberg and enjoy the view. Also, the new Melia Hotel has a nice bar at the top of the tallest building of Austria: the DC Tower. Of course you can dine or just have a drink at the freshly renovated Danube Tower Vienna. Also the bar on the top floor of the Sofitel Hotel or the Gloriette in the famous Schönbrunn Castle also offer great views.

Thinking of visiting Vienna? Check out our Accommodations and Guide for this great gay city!

STAY SOCIAL!

Don't forget to add us on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter. Follow us for exclusive content, special offers and to share your travel pictures using the hashtag #ExperienceYourPride. We love seeing what you get up to on your misterb&b vacation and we'll share the best pics with our global LGBTQ travel community!