Le Loft
Floating above Vienna like froth on a cappuccino, Le Loft is on the 18th floor of the Sofitel. As the skyline starts to twinkle, I Spy is the preferred game at this glass-walled bar with views reaching from the Riesenrad ferris wheel to the Hofburg Palace. Sip a cocktail beneath a ceiling that is a kaleidoscopic swirl of colours.

Address: 1 Praterstrasse | Telephone: 01 906 160 |

Café Prückel
Though it's fantastically retro, Café Pruckel is a more modern take on the traditional Viennese coffeehouse, though the waiters still sport their trusty black ties.

Address: 24 Stubenring | Telephone: 01 512 6115 |

Strandbad Herrmann
There's no sea for miles but who cares! At the first whiff of sunshine, Strandbad Herrmann brings the beach to the Costa del Danube, complete with sand, deckchairs, ice-cold drinks, DJ tunes and a real party vibe. The riverside bar also hosts the odd movie night.

Address: Herrmannpark | Telephone: 068 8866 6036 |

Porgy & Bess
This fixture on the Vienna live music scene is a real destination for jazz music buffs in particular, though improv, electronic, and world music do regularly grace its stage as well. Stop by the website at www.porgy.at for upcoming concert details.

Address: 11 Riemergasse | Telephone: 01 512 8811 |