Hotel Zola

The place

Hotel Zola takes its name from the French novelist Émile Zola and its home from a grand historic palace in Vienna's lively 2nd district. The ivory facade stays crisp; inside, the rooms turn contemporary bohemian.

The 20 rooms and suites are oversized and light-filled — soothing neutral hues, plaster walls, tall ceilings, contemporary furnishing. The four suites each follow their own theme; one is bold blue, with rich velvet seating, Japanese-inspired patchwork, and dried flowers.

An old mansion, yet there is a sauna and a compact gym with machines and free weights. ZAZATAM, the intimate dark bohemian restaurant and bar, cooks a modern fusion of Asia and South America.