Hostel Ruthensteiner
About
Vienna’s original independent backpacker’s hostel, Hostel Ruthensteiner, blends 18th‑century charm with sustainable, artsy living in a quiet street just a five‑minute walk from Westbahnhof and close to the historic centre and Schönbrunn Palace. Open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, it welcomes guests with a sun‑lit courtyard, a fully‑equipped kitchen, free‑as‑you‑wish dinner each night at 8 PM, and a lively bar that hosts weekly music nights, open‑mic events, and trivia classics. The hostel’s commitment to sustainability is reflected in its free bike‑rental service, zero‑waste kitchen, and vegan‑friendly breakfast from 8 AM to 11 AM, featuring local and organic options. The communal garden is a hub for board games, chess, and relaxed conversation, while the bar offers a daily Beer Happy Hour from 7:00 PM to 8:00 PM, featuring 50 % off local craft beers. For travelers who love a creative community, the hostel hosts a Work & Travel program—volunteers receive a free mixed‑room bed, breakfast and dinner, weekly laundry allowance, and a 50 % discount on bar and breakfast items, while helping out at the reception, bar, kitchen, housekeeping and event planning.
Highlights
- 24/7 Open
- Free Bike Rental
- Vibrant Communal Garden
- Free Kitchen & Pay‑as‑You‑Wish Dinner
- Art‑Inspired Rooms
- Eco‑Friendly Practices
- Beer Happy Hour
Must-See Areas
Good to Know
Good for
Best time to visit
Late spring to early fall, when the city feels lively yet the crowds are manageable and the weather is pleasant.
Pros & Cons
What visitors love
- Lively Community
- Free Amenities
- 24/7 Access
- Sustainable Practices
- Prime Location
Things to consider
- Nighttime Noise
- Week‑end Crowds
- Limited Private Space
- No Room Service
What people are saying
Frequently Asked Questions
At a glance
- Typical visit: about 4 hours