The closest neighbor during your stay at the stunning SO/Vienna property is the winding, ever-romantic Danube River. Ambience is everywhere, delivered with a high degree of luxury. The first Vienna hotel part of Sofitel’s exclusive lifestyle brand portfolio, the SO/Vienna was completely updated in 2018, making the most of celebrity architect Jean Nouvel’s original vision with a new black, white and gray design concept directed by Viennese architect Gregor Eichinger.

During my recent four-day stay at the property, I was constantly impressed with the level of outstanding service in all quarters, from dining and lounge spaces to the amazing breakfast each morning served in Das LOFT. Located on the 18th floor, the restaurant’s ceiling is a large-scale art installation, while enormous windows afford staggering views of the city spread out below, visible through walls of glass that illuminate the room with golden light.

The Just Say SO service is evident in every aspect of guest-to-staff interactions, which made me feel like a member of a secret society, rather than a guest that would be gone by the end of the week. Rooms and public spaces showcase elegant design. Elements draw from the Viennese Biedermeier period, including traditional ceramic wall art stretching back in time to the era of monarchy; original tile patterns from Brüder Schwadron; motifs from Viennese workshop archives featuring textile designs that were never produced; and furniture designs created by Gebrüder Thonet.

Following a round of museum visits, I stopped in at the ground level BAR/terre to sample from the selection of SOlgood juices. There were a number of locals as well as guests, all openly enjoying the space’s Viennese coffeehouse vibe. After an expertly whisked bowl of matcha tea, I returned to my spacious room, where window treatments slid up, down and sideways in a customizable configuration. Under-floor heating, complimentary WiFi, a Bose Wave Music System and a soft gray color palette evoked an instant sense of comfort. In the bathroom, a rainfall shower, separate soaking tub and Hermès bath products helped create a true city oasis.

Would I stay here again? In a wild Viennese heartbeat.