We’ve done short-term apartment rentals in about 35 different places around the world. We’ve really liked quite a few of these. So we have interesting discussions about which is our favourite. Alexander and Bettina’s place is a new contender. It scores very high on everything we hope for: a good, central location, cleanliness and quiet; lots of (openable) windows, brightness/airyness; comfortable bed, couch and chairs; and good hosts. All the sites and sights (Belvedere, Kunst Historichs and the Museum Quarter, St. Stephans, etc.) are within a 15 minute walk, and Karlsplatz, St Charles, and the Opera House much closer. (If you’re new to Vienna, do be sure to find the walkway from the far side of Karlsplatz under the ring – it will make your journeys to the Inner Stadt and towards the Museum Quarter much easier and quicker.)

The apartment is on the top floor, with a great elevator. In summer, we suppose there might be times when you hear a bit of sound from neighbourhood balconies, but it was incredibly quiet when we were there. It is very well equipped – in most other apartments we’ve found ourselves enumerating things that are missing (‘why no scissors?’ ‘they should have a place to hang coats’, ‘if only there was a better reading light’ …. ). None of that here. Alexander and Bettina have obviously taken great pains to ensure that their guests will have everything they’ll need, especially in the kitchen. They’re great people, and we really appreciate their making this wonderful place available to independent travellers.