Hotel Motto, Vienna

Chloe Hambidge
Jul 16
6 min read

Updated: 5 hours ago

Written & Experienced by Chloe Hambidge

Experiencing Vienna, the 'Motto' Way.

The charming French windows opening up our divine Deluxe Room.

Since hearing the soothing notes of Billy Joel's ‘Vienna’, I always envisioned the city to hold rejuvenating effects. Despite a hint of naivety from my younger past self, since wandering the streets of Austria's capital, I can whole heartedly say; I wasn’t far off. Although, this could be thanks to the place I called home for the past 3-days… Hotel Motto.

This slice of boutique brilliance has left its mark all over the city, with whisperings of the word Motto conjuring smells of freshly baked pain a chocolats warming in Motto Brot to visions of plush boudoirs as an awaiting reprieve in Hotel Motto.

These sweet treats were demolished on arrival.

The freshly renewed hotel opened its dazzling doors in 2021 after a 5-year renovation, and as they say- all good things come to those who wait, this hotel is no exception. Hotel Motto is the much-adored love child born from an affair of Viennese flair and Parisian sophistication, creating a luxury stay which evokes nostalgia whilst brimming with hipster newness.

With historical hues thanks to the buildings roots as a French owned hotel. The exterior of this boutique haven sits pretty like a butter cream cake, with quaint Romeo and Juliet balconies sprinkling its façade, and what awaits you inside, is promised to be just as sweet…

On Arrival.

Hugging the corner of Mariahilfer Strasse, walking into the confines of this hotel offers the same effect- as we were heartily enveloped by hand painted murals and plush sofas. These endearing features being just a whisper of what I was about to experience in my extravagant guest room.

The lobby, also known as the chicest of all guest check-ins.

Wrapped in style from the golden decade and kissed by romantic notes of Paris, the lavish interiors of this hotel are a love story through the ages. Boasting a creative blend of Parisian Art Deco and contemporary style, there is no place like this little hub of elegance, and, it’s just a stones throw away from all the action. Perched just a 10 minute walk to the 1st district and Museum Quarter, it’s the perfect base to explore the city by foot.

The building blocks that make this city haven so heartfelt are the furnishings. A heavy majority of the interiors and handcrafted pieces from door handles to floor lamps are made in Austria and are completely exclusive to the brand. Home grown and paying homage to its founder, Bernd Schlacher, who turned this chic brand into what it is today.

The main unisex toilet located next to the restaurant.

Although, whilst eagerly awaiting our guest room, I was struck with a homely sense of déjà vu. A comforting blanket of nostalgia. This, I soon learned, is the effect of the fusion where heartfelt meets history. Leading me to uncover that a handful of the features decorating the hotels interiors were actually relics from the one and only Ritz Paris, won in auction. Including lavish chandeliers in the foyer to the sofas in the lobby.

After a quick hop through time, I was brought back to reality to uncover my slice of Motto magic for the next few days.

Swoon-worthy Suites

Indulge in a lucky dip of room categories, each boasting charm in their own unique and sentimental ways. The “Petit” and “Chic” categories are on the cosier side and are adorned with more romantic furnishings (perfect for if you want to join in with these romantic undertones).

I stayed in a Deluxe Room which felt more like a golden infused apartment, home to grand French windows above the hustle of Mariahilfer Straße and a plush bed boasting the finest Egyptian cotton. The theme of high-end upholstery continues on to the sumptuous walls, where you can get lost in hummingbirds and fresh floristry dancing around the room; playfully concealing the toilet and wardrobe.

A hidden TV, doubling up as a mirror to open up the space further.

Upon first glances, I was struck by the light and airiness of the room, boasting the perfect combination of natural glow and style. I truly saw this as my sanctuary in the city, a homey reprieve after a day on foot. Simply envision swinging open your airy windows and debriefing about the wonders of Vienna, after pouring yourself a drink from your mini cocktail bar of course (this may be based on personal experience).

Enjoying a Hugo Spritz with a view- dreamy.

The walk in rain shower was a highlight for me, in its own spacious brass cubicle, it’s just one of the many lavish ways the brand elevates the mundane through design. This is matched with the delightful serving trolleys, baroque chandeliers and adorned mirrors, sending you back in time to the city of love at every glance.

My Deluxe Room vanity area, next to the shower cubicle. A curtain can be drawn to separate the space which is a thoughtful touch.

Each room is home to a different layout, so, after visiting, if you can’t shake this hotel of your hitlist, prepare to fall in love time and time again. With “petit” rooms taking a more rose-tinted appeal: with wallpaper sitting pastel hued and pretty with delicate floral patterns, and suites transporting you to the larger-than-life Art Deco era thanks to French windows and free-standing ornate bathtubs.

All rooms hold the same amenities, only varying in size. No matter your choice and the length of your travels, opulence and a stay with a story is promised.

Gastronomy Greatness

Holding pride of place sky high on the hotel’s rooftop the “Chez Bernard Restaurant et Bar” sprawls throughout the top two floors. Simply take the lift and head up to the top for an evening of mouth-watering culinary creation (and a few cocktails to cleanse the palate of course).

The bar area in the on-site Chez Bernard restaurant.

Hotel Motto prides itself on being a cherished home away from home and Chez Bernard is no different. Whether acting as a living room for hotel guests or a cosy hideout with some quality food for the local shopaholics below- it’s a place of pleasure for all who stop by.

The ongoing view of the city from the rooftop bar.

Despite not indulging in the restaurant myself, I walked by a plethora of happy faces, socializing, enjoying the ambience, and tables decorated with divine dishes. I previewed a few of their cocktails for some pre-dinner drinks before hitting the city post sunset. Glass in hand, it was evident from my seat at the bar, dining at Chez Bernard isn’t just a dine and dash, but an experience within itself.

Up close & personal with our beverages of choice.

It was certainly a bonus having this gem above our heads during our stay.

The Moral of the Story

Through every trip I embark on I aim to leave a bookmark in time. A place for you to go to uncover the true worth of every stay, because I know; every hotel has a story at the epicentre of their journey.

The charming spiral stairs running like an elegant spine through the hotel.

Hotel Motto isn’t dedicated; but devoted to guest experience through the magic of interior design and style. They understand there is love running through the heart of every trip like a well-rounded ribbon, which is encouraged to be embraced in every room. Despite the hipster chic city sprawled all-around, Hotel Motto holds a flame to the magic nestled in the down moments. The moments of reflection that allow us to appreciate life with a hint of romance here and there.

The rooftop bar seating area, even more dazzling in the sunshine.

The addition of unique art pieces allows this hideaway to be a place that encourages expressionism. Showing the excitement awaiting you when you escape the plain and simple.

One of many art pieces featured throughout the property- keep your eyes peeled!

I was charmed by this boutique stay with a reputation that exceeds itself. Despite this reputation, nothing can prepare you for the breath of fresh air that is Hotel Motto.

We don’t offer our guests just over-the-top chi-chi, but a cozy atmosphere at a high level on quality.– Bernd Schlacher.