Right next to the Staatsoper, this hotel couldn't be more central and it has all the silk wallpaper, 19th-century oils, and Biedermeier furniture you could wish for. In 2013, the family-owned establishment made it to number 9 on Condé Nast's list of best hotels in the world. Its popularity could be due to the luscious brocade drapes and attentive service, but for most people, it's all about chocolate cake. The Café Sacher Wien, where the Sacher Torte with its apricot middle and shiny near-black chocolate top was invented, is still going strong (and still guarding its recipe jealously). The attached  hotel has been at the heart of Viennese life since 1876. Renovations adding several penthouse suites and an awe-inspiring spa were completed in 2012. Nine suites have adjoining 23-square-meter (250 square feet) terraces with stunning views. The spa offers "hot chocolate treatments" following the Sacher's sweet tradition. Along with the Confiserie and Café, there's the Anna Sacher Restaurant (a post-opera haunt) the BlaueBar, and the sexy Rote Bar, with its charming winter garden.