The Vienna State Opera (Vienna)

The Vienna State Opera has a long and illustrious history, and remains one of the most magical cultural venues in Europe. Opened in 1869 on the Vienna Ringstrasse in the heart of the city, it has a grand Renaissance facade and opulent interior filled with extravagant marble befitting its status as a world class centre of highbrow entertainment. It is the spiritual home of the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra, and offers a varied repertoire of classic opera and ballet, including a busy program of children’s performances. There are over 200 shows each year and it is sometimes possible during cheap city breaks in Vienna to catch a different performance on each day of the week.

 

Guided tours of the premises are available in English each day, where you will discover what goes on back stage during a performance. There is also an interesting museum filled with historic props, sheet music and memorabilia. Tickets for major productions are like gold dust and its celebrated gala balls are usually sold out several months ahead. On short breaks in Vienna, you will be pleased to hear that cheap standing only tickets are on sale at the last minute for many performances, but be prepared for long queues for the most eagerly awaited shows.  

 

The Vienna State Opera is especially accessible to children and even has its own in-house opera school. There are regular matinee performances just for young children which have included operatic shows of Peter Pan, Aladdin and perennial favourite the Magic Flute. Vienna weekend breaks of culture needn’t cost an arm and a leg. During summer there is a large TV screen outside the opera house broadcasting live pictures of over 100 performances which can be enjoyed in a vibrant atmosphere for free.