Must-Try Sausages in Vienna: The Ultimate Top 10 Guide

Why Vienna’s Sausage Culture Is a Must-Try

A visit to Vienna is not complete without stopping at a Würstelstand – the city’s iconic sausage kiosk.Whether after sightseeing, late at night, or as a quick snack, grabbing a sausage is one of the most authentic ways to experience real Viennese culture.

But which sausages should you definitely try?Here is the ultimate Top 10 list every visitor needs.

1. Käsekrainer – Vienna’s Legendary Cheese Sausage

The Käsekrainer is the star of the Viennese sausage scene. A smoked sausage filled with melted cheese and perfectly roasted until crisp on the outside.

Why try it?

• iconic and intensely flavorful

• beloved by locals

• the ultimate Viennese street food classic

  
  

Tip: Try it with mustard, horseradish, and a bread roll – the Viennese way.

2. Bratwurst – the Honest, Hearty Classic

The Bratwurst is simple, robust, and deeply flavorful. Roasted until golden brown, it develops a delicious crispy crust.

Why try it?

• rich and aromatic

• great as “Bratwurst with bread”

• perfect for lovers of classic flavors

3. Bosna – the Spicy Austrian Icon

The Bosna is a roasted sausage in a toasted bun, seasoned with curry, onions, and parsley. Originally from Salzburg, now a legend in Vienna.

Why try it?

• quick, spicy, and satisfying

• perfect late-night snack

• unique flavor profile

4. Viennese Hot Dog – Mild, Classic, Popular

The Viennese Hot Dog differs from the American version. The bun is heated from the inside and filled with a Frankfurter or Sacherwürstel.

Why try it?

• mild and easy to enjoy

• ideal for visitors and families

• perfect on the go

5. Debreziner – Spicy, But Not Too Spicy

The Debreziner is a slightly spicy, smoked sausage with a distinct paprika flavor.

Why try it?

• flavorful with a gentle heat

• juicy and aromatic

• traditionally served as a pair

6. Burenwurst – Hearty, Smoky, Intense

The Burenwurst (also known as “Klosterwurst”) is dark, coarse, and strongly smoked – one of the most rustic options in Vienna.

Why try it?

• very strong flavor

• incredibly filling

• excellent with spicy mustard

7. Frankfurter – The Original “Vienna Sausage”

Known internationally as the Vienna Sausage, the Frankfurter is mild, delicate, and naturally juicy.

Why try it?

• great for children and beginners

• traditionally served in pairs

• essential for the Viennese Hot Dog

8. Waldviertler – Smoky, Coarse, Packed With Flavor

The Waldviertler is a heavily smoked, coarse sausage with a bold taste – more intense than a Frankfurter.

Why try it?

• rich, smoky flavor

• excellent when freshly roasted

• a favorite among locals

9. Sacherwürstel – The Elegant Frankfurter Variant

The Sacherwürstel is a finer, slightly more seasoned variant of the Frankfurter. Slimmer, elegant, and traditionally served in pairs.

Why try it?

• refined and delicate flavor

• wonderfully smooth texture

• often used in Viennese-style hot dogs

Note: Many locals consider it the “premium” Frankfurter.

10. Veggie & Vegan Sausages – Surprisingly Good Alternatives

Vienna’s sausage scene now includes high-quality vegetarian and vegan options that taste impressively close to the original.

Why try it?

• ideal for mixed groups

• increasingly popular with tourists

• a modern take on classic Viennese street food

👑 How to Eat Sausages the Viennese Way

To get the most authentic experience:

• order them freshly roasted

• add mustard, horseradish, or ketchup

• choose between bread roll or sliced bread

• pair it with a beer or Almdudler

📍 Where to Try All These Sausages

The best place to enjoy these classics?At the Würstelstand zum Kaiser – known for quality, tradition, and real Viennese charm.