Vienna State Opera House: What to See, When to Go, and Why It Matters

Welcome to the Vienna State Opera—a name that resonates with music lovers across the globe. As a seasoned tour guide in Austria, I can assure you that no trip to Vienna is complete without experiencing the elegance, power, and passion that echo within these storied walls.
 

Whether you’re an opera aficionado, an architecture lover, or simply curious about Austrian culture, the Vienna State Opera offers a world of grandeur, history, and beauty waiting to be explored.

Let me take you behind the curtain of this iconic institution, and show you how to make the most of your visit.

1. What Is the Vienna State Opera?

Name: Wiener Staatsoper (Vienna State Opera)

Founded: Officially opened in 1869

Location: Opernring 2, 1010 Vienna, Austria

Capacity: Around 1,700 seats

Season: September to June annually

The Vienna State Opera is one of the most prestigious opera houses in the world, known for its outstanding performances, architectural beauty, and deep-rooted musical legacy.

2. A Brief History of Vienna State Opera

The Vienna State Opera was inaugurated on May 25, 1869, with a performance of Mozart’s “Don Giovanni”, under the patronage of Emperor Franz Joseph I.

The building was originally criticized by the public for its design—so much so that one of the architects tragically took his own life. Ironically, it is now hailed as one of Vienna’s architectural gems.

During World War II, the opera house was heavily damaged by bombing in 1945. It was meticulously rebuilt and reopened in 1955 with Beethoven’s “Fidelio”—a symbolic act of resilience.

Today, it remains a pillar of Austrian culture, hosting hundreds of performances a year.

3. Why You Should Visit the Vienna State Opera

🎼 Musical Excellence

The Vienna State Opera is home to some of the best orchestras and performers in the world.

It presents over 300 performances annually, including operas, ballets, and concerts.

Features world-renowned conductors, soloists, and a deep connection to Mozart, Strauss, and Wagner.

🏛️ Architectural Grandeur

Neo-Renaissance design with richly decorated foyers, marble staircases, chandeliers, and gilded ceilings.

The majestic auditorium is a work of art in itself.

Guided tours offer a close look at the backstage and Royal Box.

💃 Cultural Icon

Attending a show here isn’t just about the performance—it’s a Viennese tradition.

Every year, the opera house transforms into a grand ballroom for the famous Vienna Opera Ball, attended by celebrities and aristocrats.

4. Things to Do at the Vienna State Opera

🎭 Attend an Opera or Ballet Performance

Choose from works by Mozart, Verdi, Puccini, Wagner, and more.

Ballet lovers can enjoy performances by the Vienna State Ballet, known for its classical technique and innovation.

Tickets start from as low as €10 (standing room) to over €200 (premium seats).

🏰 Take a Guided Tour

Daily tours in multiple languages (English, German, Spanish, etc.)

Explore the Grand Staircase, Tea Salon, State Rooms, and behind-the-scenes areas.

Tours last approx. 40 minutes, cost about €13–15 per adult.

🎬 Watch an Opera Live Outside

During spring and early summer, selected performances are broadcast live on a giant screen outside the opera house for free.

Grab a seat and enjoy the music under the stars.

🎟️ Get Last-Minute Standing Tickets

Line up at the back entrance (Operngasse) 80–90 minutes before the show.

Pay as little as €4–10 for world-class productions—perfect for budget travelers.

5. How to Buy Tickets

Online: www.wiener-staatsoper.at (official website)

Box Office: Located on Opernring, open daily

Last-Minute Booths: Standing room and returns available before shows

💡 Tip: Major performances can sell out months in advance. Book early—especially for Mozart or Strauss nights.

6. What to Wear to the Opera

Vienna values tradition and elegance, especially for evening shows.

Dress code: Smart casual or formal for most performances

Gala nights or premiere nights: Business attire, dresses, or even tuxedos

Standing tickets: More relaxed, but avoid overly casual wear

7. When to Visit

🎶 Opera Season (September–June)

Full schedule of performances almost daily.

December and January are popular for festive performances and New Year events.

💃 Opera Ball (February)

The grandest social event in Austria.

The main auditorium is turned into a ballroom with over 5,000 guests.

🌸 Spring/Summer Broadcasts

Free outdoor screenings in April, May, and June.

Best for those who want a casual way to enjoy opera.

8. Where to Stay Near the Vienna State Opera

🏨 Luxury

Hotel Sacher Wien – Just across the street, historic and elegant

The Ritz-Carlton Vienna – A short walk from the opera, with rooftop views

🛌 Mid-range

Austria Trend Hotel Europa Wien

Hotel Kaiserhof Wien

🏨 Budget

Motel One Wien-Staatsoper – Modern and affordable, right behind the Opera

Wombat’s City Hostel Naschmarkt – Backpacker-friendly with style

9. Where to Eat and Drink Nearby

Café Sacher – Try the world-famous Sacher Torte just next door

Plachutta – Traditional Viennese cuisine like Tafelspitz

Café Mozart – Historic café with opera-themed decor

Zum Schwarzen Kameel – Elegant bar and restaurant for a post-opera drink

10. Other Attractions Nearby

The opera house is in Vienna’s 1st District (Innere Stadt), surrounded by major landmarks:

Albertina Museum – Famous art collections, next door

Hofburg Palace – Imperial residence, 10-minute walk

St. Stephen’s Cathedral – Gothic beauty at the heart of the city

Vienna Philharmonic Hall – One of the best orchestras in the world

11. Fun Facts About the Vienna State Opera

Gustav Mahler, one of Austria’s greatest composers, was director here in the 1890s.

The opera house uses a unique subtitle system—each seat has a personal screen with subtitles in several languages.

The chandelier in the auditorium weighs over 3,000 kilograms and sparkles with 1,100 light bulbs.

The Opera Ball requires months of preparation and features debutante dances, celebrity appearances, and 40,000 flowers from Innsbruck.

12. Tips From Your Tour Guide

Arrive early: Even for standing tickets, the best spots go quickly.

Bring opera glasses: Especially if you're sitting further back.

Take the tour even if you’re not attending a show: It’s one of Vienna’s best cultural experiences.

Check the program: Some performances are modern or experimental—not just classical.

13. Is the Vienna State Opera Worth Visiting?

Absolutely. Whether or not you’re a fan of opera, the Vienna State Opera is a symbol of Austria’s cultural identity. It’s grand, inspiring, and an unforgettable experience.

It’s not just about music—it’s about immersing yourself in the soul of Vienna.

🎼 Conclusion: A Must-See for Any Vienna Visitor

As your virtual tour guide, I wholeheartedly recommend that you make time for the Vienna State Opera. Whether you’re catching an evening performance, joining a behind-the-scenes tour, or simply standing outside and admiring its grandeur, it’s an experience that leaves a lasting impression.

In the heart of Vienna, under golden lights and soaring arias, you’ll discover why Austria is called the Land of Music.