In travels in Europe, many seniors think of Paris as the city for lovers and Vienna the city for those who love old-fashioned charm and comfort. In that theme, consider some choices of the most charming and comfortable Viennese hotels in three cost categories.    

Luxury: Hotel Imperial: If you want to live like a member of royalty, check in at this former grand palace built in 1863 for the Prince of Württemberg. It’s the city’s most luxurious hotel, and located on magnificent Ring Boulevard, and next to the famous Wiener Musikverein, the Carnegie Hall of Austria. During your Vienna stay, be sure to attend music events featuring Strauss, Mozart, Wagner, Verdi, Basie and Gershwin. Rates: $500 to $2,000, This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it The hotel’s Restaurant Imperial was designed as a royal hall, complete with portraits of Emperor Franz Joseph and other historic figures staring down benevolently at diners.  Candlelight provides the right mood for traditional Austrian and Continental food and fine wines.

Casual: The Ring Hotel: While upper class in attitude and accommodations, The Ring is a good, no-nonsense hotel for those who must come to Vienna for overnight stops and short business visits.

The staff is always ready to accommodate your needs, and to provide info about the best restaurants in the city. The hotel is within walking distance of the Karlsplatz, Vienna State Opera, Austrian National Library and Michaelerplatz.

At the nearby Michaelerkirche, Mozart’s Requiem was first performed in 1791. Underneath the church is a creepy crypt where visitors can see 150-year-old mummified wealthy locals still dressed in their best funeral finery. Rates: From $200. www.theringhotel.com

Budget: Hotel Austria: It’s a short stroll to St. Stephens Cathedral, the Hofsburg Palace and the internationally-famous Spanish Riding School. Be sure to attend a performance at the school, featuring the beautiful white prancing horses and their intricate marching routines.

Considering today’s prices charged by many hotels in big cities, a recent stay in a comfortable double-bed room and large bathroom was a bargain. Breakfast buffet is included in the price. Rates: From $100 . This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it