Praterstrasse in Vienna: History, Restaurants & the New Design in the 2nd District

Praterstrasse is around one kilometre long and is located in Vienna’s 2nd district, Leopoldstadt. It connects the Vienna Prater with the city centre and is one of the best-known streets in Vienna’s 2nd district.

Until 1862, it was known as “Jägerzeile”. Today, the U1 underground line runs beneath the street, connecting Vienna’s 22nd district directly with the city centre.

If you take a closer look while walking along Praterstrasse, you will discover many interesting buildings and historical places:

Praterstrasse 11–19: the impressive Lloyd Hof
In front of no. 17: the well-known Nestroy monument
Praterstrasse 54: the former home of Johann Strauss II
Praterstrasse 70: the Dogenhof
Praterstrasse 72: our hotel and also the birthplace of the famous composer Max Steiner, who composed the film music for “Gone with the Wind” and “Casablanca”, among others

It is precisely this mix of history, architecture and everyday Viennese life that makes Praterstrasse so fascinating to me.

In 2024, the major redesign of Praterstrasse was completed – and I have to say: the transformation has turned out really well.

Around 50 new trees were planted, the pavements were extensively renovated and many new seating areas were created. Especially on hot summer days, water features along the street provide pleasant refreshment.

Probably the biggest highlight, however, is Vienna’s first “mega cycle highway” with a width of 4.5 metres. Cyclists can now ride comfortably from Urania all the way to Reichsbrücke.

By reducing the number of car lanes, traffic on Praterstrasse has become much calmer. This is something many of our guests really appreciate. At the same time, the old trees were preserved – something I personally find especially beautiful.

When you have lived here for many years, as I have, you naturally discover your own favourite restaurants along Praterstrasse. That is why I would like to share a few places here that I have already visited myself and can gladly recommend.

Gasthaus Hansy – A Classic Viennese Inn
A typical Viennese corner restaurant with traditional Viennese cuisine and a cosy atmosphere.

Aida Konditorei – Coffee & Cake in Vienna
Perfect for a coffee break with delicious slices of cake. The café also participates in “Too Good To Go” – which I think is wonderful.

Gaia Kitchen – Vegan Restaurant in Vienna
Here you will find purely vegan cuisine and supposedly even the best vegan döner kebab in the city.

Restaurant 3/4 Takt – Affordable Viennese Cuisine
An uncomplicated restaurant serving classic Viennese dishes at fair prices.

Cucina Itameshi – Italian-Japanese Fusion
Located directly in the Dogenhof and definitely something special. Here, Italian cuisine meets Japanese influences. Important: for dinner, you should definitely reserve well in advance.

Der Praterwirt – Viennese Cuisine with a Modern Twist
Located right near the church. The Budweiser beer from the tank is especially popular. The cuisine is Viennese, but interpreted in a modern and fresh way.

Edlingers Tempel – A Creative Restaurant with a Special Atmosphere
Mr Edlinger is an artist – and you can feel that in the restaurant too. We had our Christmas party there last year and everyone was delighted.

Ramasuri – Creative & Delicious
A restaurant with creative cuisine and a relaxed atmosphere.

Die Fischerie – Freshwater Fish from Regional Waters
Here, only freshwater fish from local waters are served – creatively prepared and truly excellent.

Of course, there are many more restaurants, cafés and bars to discover along Praterstrasse.