Classically Vienna: exploring the city of music

Culture

Culture

Discovery

Discovery

Short Break

Short Break

Vienna: an introduction

Vienna is a city that captivates all the senses, with its regal skyline of majestic Baroque mansions, manicured gardens and grand architecture; and the historic Ringstrasse showcasing an impressive array of buildings that reflect the city’s rich cultural heritage. Discover culinary delights throughout the city, where hearty dishes like crispy schnitzel and the decadent Sachertorte tantalise the taste buds. The charming coffee house culture offers a cosy atmosphere for savouring a cup of rich coffee while indulging in traditional sweet treats. When it comes to sound, Vienna stands in a league of its own, celebrated as the classical music capital of Europe. The opulence of the ball season, harmonious strains of orchestras, and the timeless melodies of illustrious composers echo through its concert halls; an unforgettable experience.

Operas & concerts

Vienna is a city with a plethora of magnificent venues that play host to a number of unforgettable operas, shows and concerts. One of the most well known opera houses is the spectacular Staatsoper, dating back to 1869 and situated on the Ringstrassen boulevard. There are also a number of historically significant venues known for their musical heritage and acoustics; including the Musikverein, Volksoper, Theater an der Wien, Konzerthaus, Mozarthaus, Schönbrunn Palace, Kursalon Hübner and Hofburg Palace, as well as churches such as Peterskirche and Karlskirche.

With many opportunities to see concerts and opera in Vienna, it can be difficult to know which venues to visit and what tickets to buy. From year-round concerts to special events over the festive season and summer, there’s no better place to experience the best of the classical music. We’ve gathered a few of must-see concerts, shows and operas.

 

Summer Night Concert

An annual event taking place in June at Schönbrunn Palace, this open-air concert is free to attend and is one of the great highlights of the Philharmonic year.

 

New Year’s Concert

A long standing tradition and concert consisting of the spectacular and nostalgic music from the family of Johann Strauss and its contemporaries. An incredibly popular event at the Musikverein, tickets are drawn from applications made in February, for the upcoming New Year.

 

Opera at Staatsoper

For first timers, we’d recommend any of the following iconic opera in the opulent setting of the Staatsoper:
Mozart’s le Nozze di Figaro (The Marriage of Figaro)
Mozart’s Die Zauberflöte (The Magic Flute)
Strauss’ Die Fledermaus (The Bat)
Puccini’s Tosca Beethoven’s Fidelio

 

Ball season

Dating back to the 18th century, the ball season in Vienna is a long-standing tradition known for its glitz, glamour and the world-famous waltz, of course. The season coincides with Carnival, traditionally starting on 11 November and ending on Shrove Tuesday. Each year, more than 450 balls take place in Vienna across various iconic venues. If it’s your first time at a Viennese ball, the world of elegant gowns, tiara’s, tailcoats and waltzing may be completely new to you. But be assured it is an enchanting experience that you will never forget. Nowhere does it quite like Vienna, steeped in tradition and heritage, we’ve curated tips and tricks to introduce you to the ball basics.

Dressing the part To put it simply, dress to impress. For women, full-length evening or ball gowns are the norm and white is not appropriate unless you are a debutante. Many will accessorize with gloves and jewellery. For gentlemen, a tuxedo or tailcoat is usually the go-to. However, some balls may have their own dress code, which can be found on the event website or in the invitation. As a rule of thumb, always think elegance and sophistication.

Dining and drinking Toast to the night ahead with a glass of Austrian prosecco, and if the ball doesn’t offer a gala dinner ahead of the ceremony, be sure to book a dinner ahead of time – we recommend Silvio Nickol, Glasswing Restaurant and Restaurant OPUS. For your post-dancing re-fuel, visit one of the many traditional sausage stands, or on the night of the Opera Ball book a table at the Hotel Sacher for their exclusive After Hour Snacks.

Waltz workshops Learn the ball basics at one of Vienna’s esteemed dancing schools. From private tuition and group workshops, and lessons for waltz beginners to those more advanced, there’s something that will help ball-goers become best prepared for the world-famous calendar of events. There are many schools around the city, but we’d recommend heading to the prominent Rueff or Elmayer dance schools for your introduction to the world of Viennese Ball tradition.

 

Where to stay

 

Rosewood Vienna | Petersplatz 7, 1010 Wien

Situated in the charming Old Town, Rosewood’s enviable Petersplatz position will have you in the heart of a breathtaking upscale area of the city; perfect for those wanting to indulge in world-class dining, a spot of retail therapy, historical landmarks, museums and more – all within walking distance. The hotel offers 100 spacious guestrooms and suites, tastefully decorated to incorporate the buildings elegant original features with luxurious contemporary furnishings. The vibrant Neue Hoheit Brasserie, sultry Neue Hoheit Rooftop Bar and welcoming Salon Aurelie all showcase the hotels elevated dining experiences.

 

Hotel Sacher Wien | Philharmoniker Str. 4, 1010 Wien

Home to the iconic Sachertorte, this luxury hotel is oozing with historic beauty and modern sophistication. Family owned and operated since 1832, it’s positioning directly across from the Vienna State Opera makes it an impeccable choice when discovering the musical heritage of the city. The opulent interiors are decorated with antiques, silk curtains and prestigious artwork; offering a real sense of grandeur whether you’re staying in an elegant Deluxe Room or one of the spectacular suites. The hotel is home to the famous Café Sacher, where a slice of the original Sachertorte is best enjoyed with a warming cup of coffee. In addition to this, there are a number of exquisite bars and restaurants, where you can tuck into classic Viennese cuisine. Taking time out from the buzz of the city couldn’t be easier at the in-house boutique spa, complete with a Finnish Sauna and a menu of relaxing services, including an exclusive range of signature chocolate themed treatments.

 

Park Hyatt Vienna | Am Hof 2, 1010 Wien

Housed in the former Bank of Austria building, the Park Hyatt Vienna promises a first-class stay in the heart of the vibrant Innere Stadt neighbourhood. The hotel is just steps away from the designer boutiques of the Goldenes Quartier, and various notable landmarks, concert halls and museums are also within walking distance. The palatial property, complete with polished marble floors and intricate historical details, sets a

grand first impression. Nevertheless, the opulence continues within the hotels welcoming guestrooms and suites, incredible Bank Brasserie and Bar, and charming Café Am Hof. Located in the former vault of the building where gold was once stored, you’ll find the Arany Spa; an oasis of relaxation in the heart of the city with an inviting indoor 15-metre swimming pool, treatment rooms, fitness centre and more.

 

The Quintessential touch

Through our dedicated team of travel experts all over the globe, we’re personally acquainted with the cultural and culinary hotspots of all the cities and townships featured above, meaning we’re best-placed to create a bespoke holiday experience geared towards your particular interests. What’s more, we hold VIP Preferred Partner status with all of the finest hotels in each locale, meaning you can enjoy excellent facilities, impeccable service and all those little extras and benefits which are instrumental in getting the most out of your time away. For more information about the luxury travel services we provide, get in touch with Quintessentially Travel today.