Neubau (7th District): Explore Vienna’s Trendiest Hipster Spots

Last Updated on 20/06/2026

Vienna’s 7th district, known as Neubau, is a place where old and new blend perfectly. Over the past decade, it has become the city’s unofficial hipster capital. Here, traditional bakeries sit next to vegan coffee shops. Vintage record stores share streets with minimalist art galleries. The air carries the scent of fresh espresso and the sound of friendly chatter, often in English, German, or sometimes both. Whether you’re a student, a creative, or just curious, Neubau invites you to experience Vienna from a fresh angle—one that is both open-minded and deeply local.

But Neubau is more than just trendy spots and cool facades. It’s a neighborhood with roots going back to the 18th century, reshaped by generations of artists, migrants, and entrepreneurs. Today, you’ll find a strong sense of community, a love for sustainable living, and a playful spirit that’s hard to find elsewhere in Vienna.

If you want to go beyond tourist clichés and see how Vienna’s young generation lives, eats, shops, and relaxes, Neubau is the place to start.

Neubau At A Glance: History Meets Modernity

Neubau, or the 7th district, is one of Vienna’s smallest but most densely populated neighborhoods. Historically, it was a working-class area, known for its textile industry and small workshops. Many of the narrow streets and courtyards still show this past, with old signs and iron gates hinting at former factories.

In the 2000s, affordable rents and central location attracted students, artists, and young families. This wave brought new life to empty storefronts and old buildings. Today, Neubau is a magnet for those who want creativity, diversity, and a relaxed city feel.

Some key facts about Neubau:

• Area: 1.6 km² (about 0.6 square miles)
• Population: About 32,000 (as of 2023)
• Main shopping street: Mariahilfer Straße
• Famous for: MuseumsQuartier, indie shops, nightlife, art, sustainability

You’ll notice that Neubau is compact. You can walk across it in 20 minutes, but it would take days to explore its hidden corners.

Exploring The Heart: Mariahilfer Straße And Beyond

The Mariahilfer Straße is Vienna’s longest and busiest shopping street, running along Neubau’s southern edge. Locals call it “Mahü.” While the big brands and department stores are on the main avenue, Neubau’s soul is found in the side streets and alleys.

Must-visit Streets And Squares

• Neubaugasse: The core of hipster Neubau, packed with concept stores, small galleries, and cozy cafes. On weekends, it’s lively with locals and visitors.
• Siebensterngasse: Known for street art, international food spots, and a laid-back atmosphere. Look for the colorful murals and pop-up events.
• Spittelberg: A charming quarter with cobblestone lanes and Biedermeier houses, famous for its Christmas market and romantic feel.
• Burggasse: Home to vintage shops, record stores, and cool brunch spots.

Getting Around

Neubau is very walkable, but if you’re in a hurry:

• U3 Metro (Orange line): Stops at Volkstheater, Neubaugasse, and Zieglergasse.
• Tram lines 49, 5, 18: Crisscross the district.
• Citybike stations and e-scooters: Easy to find and affordable.

Many visitors are surprised by how car-free some parts feel. In recent years, the city has added more bike lanes and pedestrian zones, making Neubau friendly for everyone.

Where The Hipsters Go: Top Cafés And Brunch Spots

Coffee culture is serious in Vienna, but Neubau takes it to another level. Here, baristas treat coffee like an art, and brunch is a weekend ritual. Some spots are minimalist, some are colorful, but all focus on quality and atmosphere.

Below is a comparison of popular cafés, their vibe, and signature offerings:

Café Name	Atmosphere	Specialties	Vegan Options
Kaffeemodul	Tiny, modern	Single-origin espresso, filter coffee	Some
Burggasse24 Café	Vintage, cozy	Homemade cakes, brunch	Many
Vollpension	Retro, playful	Granny-baked pies, Austrian classics	Few
Erich	Trendy, international	Breakfast bowls, tacos, cocktails	Extensive
Ulrich	Bright, lively	Eggs Benedict, pancakes	Good selection

Non-obvious tip: Many Neubau cafés are busiest between 10 am and 2 pm, especially on weekends. If you want a quiet spot, go earlier or try late afternoon. Some places don’t take reservations, so be ready to wait.

For coffee lovers, try a “Melange” (Viennese cappuccino) at a classic spot, then sample a flat white or cold brew at a third-wave café. Neubau is also a pioneer for plant-based milks and gluten-free options.

Indie Shopping: From Vintage To Viennese Design

Forget international chains—Neubau is about unique, local shopping. You’ll find everything from handmade jewelry to sustainable fashion and quirky art books.

Best Concept Stores And Boutiques

• We Bandits: Focus on Korean and Scandinavian fashion, with a minimalist style.
• Wolfensson: High-quality Austrian labels, leather goods, and shoes.
• Volta: Upcycled home decor and zero-waste products.
• Supersense: For analog lovers—Polaroid cameras, vinyl, and prints.
• Gabarage upcycling: Accessories and bags made from recycled materials.

Vintage And Secondhand

Neubau is a paradise for thrift hunters. Popular stops include Burggasse24 (both a café and vintage shop), Polyklamott, and Uppers & Downers. You can find everything from 1970s Levi’s to 90s designer dresses.

Insider insight: Many vintage stores have “pay by kilo” days or secret discount racks. Ask staff for upcoming sales—they’re usually happy to share.

Artisanal Markets

On weekends, look for pop-up flea markets or design fairs, often held in hidden courtyards or at MuseumsQuartier. These are perfect for unique souvenirs and a taste of local creativity.

Art, Culture, And Street Life

Neubau is the beating heart of Vienna’s young art scene. It’s home to major museums, small galleries, and plenty of street art.

Museumsquartier: Vienna’s Creative Powerhouse

The MuseumsQuartier (MQ) is one of Europe’s largest cultural complexes. It’s more than just museums—it’s a place to meet, relax, and experience art in all forms.

Main highlights:

• Leopold Museum: Austrian modern art, including works by Egon Schiele and Gustav Klimt.
• MUMOK: Contemporary and modern art in a striking gray cube.
• Kunsthalle Wien: Rotating exhibitions of cutting-edge art.
• Q21: Studios for 50+ creative organizations.

MQ’s inner courtyards are full of loungers, bars, and outdoor art. In summer, it’s a hotspot for open-air concerts and film screenings. In winter, the area transforms with Christmas markets and light installations.

Street Art And Galleries

Siebensterngasse and its surroundings are covered with murals, stickers, and graffiti. Neubau supports legal street art, so you’ll find new works every few months.

For galleries, check out Galerie Ernst Hilger (contemporary art), Improper Walls (urban art), or Bildraum 07 (up-and-coming artists).

Practical advice: Many galleries host “Vernissages” (openings) with free drinks and a chance to meet artists. These events are relaxed and friendly—even for beginners.

Food And Drink: World Cuisine Meets Austrian Classics

Neubau’s food scene is as diverse as its people. You’ll find everything from classic Wiener Schnitzel to vegan sushi and Syrian street food.

Austrian And Viennese Classics

• Glacis Beisl: Hidden garden, traditional dishes, and a great wine list.
• Schnitzelwirt: Famous for huge schnitzels and old-school charm.
• Gasthaus am Spittelberg: Modern takes on Austrian comfort food.

International Flavors

• Neni am Naschmarkt: Israeli-Mediterranean, perfect for sharing.
• Tian Bistro: Vegetarian fine dining with a Michelin star.
• Disco Volante: Neapolitan pizza with a disco ball oven.
• Apadana: Persian specialties and warm hospitality.

Vegan And Vegetarian Gems

Neubau is a leader in plant-based eating. Some favorites:

• Veggiezz: Burgers, bowls, and salads.
• Swing Kitchen: Vegan fast food with famous burgers.
• Simply Raw Bakery: Raw cakes, smoothies, and coffee.

Craft Beer And Cocktail Bars

• Mel’s Craft Beers & Diner: 15+ taps, US-style burgers.
• Känguruh Pub: Over 150 Belgian beers.
• If Dogs Run Free: Award-winning cocktails, creative presentations.

Hidden gem: Try the speakeasy-style bars on Lerchenfelder Straße. Entrance often requires a code or finding an unmarked door, adding to the adventure.

Nightlife: Where To Go After Dark

When the sun sets, Neubau’s energy shifts. The area is full of small clubs, laid-back bars, and live music venues. You won’t find flashy mega-clubs, but you will find creative spaces and friendly crowds.

Best Places To Dance, Listen, And Hang Out

• Rote Bar (Volkstheater): Classic Viennese ballroom with themed parties.
• Das Werk: Underground club for techno and experimental music.
• Chelsea: Live indie and rock bands, casual vibe.
• Rhiz: Legendary spot for electronic and alternative music.

Many bars stay open until 2 or 4 am, especially on weekends. In summer, the nightlife spills onto the streets, with outdoor seating and street performances.

Non-obvious insight: Vienna’s nightlife starts late. Most bars only get busy after 10 pm. Don’t arrive too early, or you’ll have the place to yourself.

Living Sustainably: Green Side Of Neubau

Neubau is one of Vienna’s most eco-conscious neighborhoods. Many residents support local, organic, and fair-trade businesses. You’ll see this in everything from plastic-free shops to community gardens.

Sustainable Shopping And Eating

• Der Greißler: Zero-waste grocery store, bring your own containers.
• BioMarkt Maran: Organic supermarket with Austrian products.
• Lunzers Maß-Greißlerei: Bulk goods, local honey, and eco-essentials.

Cafés and restaurants label vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options clearly. Many use local ingredients and offer fair-trade coffee.

Community Initiatives

• Urban gardening projects: Small vegetable patches on rooftops and in courtyards.
• Repair Cafés: Bring broken electronics or clothes and learn how to fix them for free.
• Secondhand furniture stores: Like Caritas reuse shops, helping reduce waste.

Insider tip: Neubau’s local council often hosts “Green Days,” where you can swap clothes, get recycling tips, or join neighborhood clean-ups.

Festivals, Events, And Local Life

No matter when you visit, Neubau has something happening. From art nights to food festivals, the district keeps locals and travelers busy.

Popular Annual Events

• Vienna Design Week (September): Exhibitions, talks, and pop-ups in shops and studios.
• MQ Summer Open Air: Free concerts and cinema in MuseumsQuartier.
• Spittelberg Christmas Market (November–December): Cozy stalls, crafts, and mulled wine.
• Fesch’Markt: Austria’s largest independent design market, held three times a year.

Weekly And Monthly Happenings

• Neubaugasse Flea Market: Twice a year, hundreds of stalls take over the street.
• First Thursdays: Galleries open late, with special events and free entry.
• Food Truck Park MQ: Street food from around the world, open during warm months.

Practical advice: Many events are free or low-cost, and most are family-friendly. Check local posters or neighborhood Facebook groups for last-minute happenings.

 

Where To Stay In Neubau

Staying in Neubau gives you the best of both worlds: close to Vienna’s historic center, but quieter and more local. Accommodation options range from boutique hotels to stylish apartments.

Here’s a comparison of different types of places you might consider:

Type	Price Range (per night)	Typical Features	Recommended For
Boutique Hotel	$120–$250	Design rooms, local breakfast, central location	Couples, solo travelers
Budget Hostel	$25–$60	Dorms, shared kitchen, young vibe	Backpackers, students
Airbnb/Apartment	$80–$180	Kitchen, privacy, local experience	Families, groups
Design Guesthouse	$70–$150	Unique decor, personal touch	Creative travelers

Some well-known places include 25hours Hotel (fun, colorful, with a rooftop bar), Max Brown 7th District (vintage style, record players in rooms), and Wombat’s City Hostel (friendly and social).

Booking tip: Neubau is popular, so reserve early—especially during big events or Christmas market season.

Everyday Life: What Makes Neubau Different

It’s not just shops and nightlife that make Neubau special. Everyday details set the neighborhood apart.

People And Community

Neubau is young: over 40% of residents are under 35. You’ll meet students, artists, tech workers, and families. English is widely spoken, but you’ll hear many languages. The vibe is open, tolerant, and creative.

Architecture And Green Spaces

Most buildings are 19th-century “Gründerzeit” apartments, with high ceilings and big windows. The area has few big parks but many small gardens, playgrounds, and leafy courtyards.

Safety And Comfort

Neubau is safe day and night. Streets are well-lit, and public transport runs late. Most locals use bikes or walk. Supermarkets, bakeries, and pharmacies are everywhere.

Not-so-obvious fact: Neubau has some of Vienna’s best tap water—straight from the Alps! Bring a reusable bottle and fill up at public fountains.

How To Experience Neubau Like A Local

If you want to avoid tourist traps and really get to know Neubau, try these tips:

• Start your day with coffee and pastry at a small bakery, not a big chain.
• Explore the side streets—the best shops and murals are not on the main road.
• Eat lunch at a Beisl (Austrian pub) or international spot. Ask for the daily special.
• Visit a gallery or museum in the afternoon. Many are free or donation-based.
• Relax in a courtyard café with an Aperol spritz or homemade lemonade.
• Browse a vintage store or bookshop for a unique souvenir.
• Join a community event—a flea market, open-air movie, or local workshop.
• Finish with craft beer or cocktails at a bar where locals hang out.

If you’re feeling adventurous, rent a bike and explore neighboring districts like Josefstadt (8th) or Mariahilf (6th). Neubau is a perfect base for discovering Vienna’s lesser-known sides.

Non-obvious insight: Neubau is quieter in August, when many locals go on vacation. It’s busier in September and December, around festivals and holidays.

Practical Information For Visitors

• Currency: Euro (€)
• Language: German (but English is widely spoken)
• Transport: Metro, trams, citybikes, walking
• Best time to visit: May–October for outdoor events, November–December for Christmas markets
• Wi-Fi: Most cafés, hotels, and public spaces offer free Wi-Fi
• Tipping: 5–10% is standard in restaurants and cafés

Emergency numbers:

• Police: 133
• Ambulance: 144
• Fire: 122

Local tip: Always carry some cash. Many small shops and markets in Neubau still prefer it over cards.

Neubau In Numbers: Quick Data

Statistic	Figure	Comment
Population	~32,000	Youngest in Vienna
Area	1.6 km²	Compact and dense
Average rent (2023)	€16/m²	Higher than Vienna average
Green space per capita	12 m²	Small parks, many courtyards
Number of cafés	80+	Many are independent

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Neubau Safe For Tourists And Solo Travelers?

Yes, Neubau is one of Vienna’s safest districts. Streets are busy and well-lit, even late at night. Public transport is reliable, and locals are helpful. Like any city, watch your belongings in crowded places, but violent crime is rare.

What Is The Best Way To Get To Neubau From The City Center?

The easiest way is by U3 metro (orange line)—it runs from Stephansplatz (city center) to Neubaugasse and Zieglergasse in just 5 minutes. Trams and buses are also frequent. Walking from the Innere Stadt takes about 20–25 minutes.

Are There Good Options For Vegetarians And Vegans?

Absolutely. Neubau is Vienna’s leader in plant-based eating. Most cafés and restaurants offer vegetarian and vegan dishes, and some are fully vegan. Look for places like Veggiezz, Swing Kitchen, and Simply Raw Bakery for the best selection.

Can I Experience Authentic Vienna In Neubau, Or Is It Too Touristy?

Neubau has a good mix of locals and visitors. You’ll find authentic Viennese life, especially in side streets, markets, and smaller cafés. The district is less touristy than the historic center and has a creative, genuine atmosphere.

Where Can I Learn More About Events And Openings In Neubau?

Check the official MuseumsQuartier website for cultural news, or local magazines like “Falter.” Many shops and cafés also post events on their windows or social media. For an overview, see MuseumsQuartier Wien.

Vienna’s Neubau is not just a destination—it’s a way to experience the city’s creative spirit and open-minded community. Whether you’re here for a few days or planning to stay longer, Neubau will show you a side of Vienna that’s as modern as it is timeless.