Enjoy an evening performance in the Vienna State Opera, one of the most respected opera houses in the world, or come here during the day to tour the grand building. Admire the Renaissance-style facade and the gilded interior with symbolic statues and mesmerizing tapestries.
The Wiener Staatsoper (Vienna State Opera), from 1869 was the first grand building to be completed on Vienna’s central Ringstraße. After the destruction of World War II, a careful restoration in the 1950s brought it back to its original glory. The Vienna State Opera now hosts performances almost daily. With 50 different productions annually, it has one of the largest opera repertoires in the world.
Before entering, admire the two-storied loggias on the facade. Look for the statues of the muses on horseback and the Hapsburg coat of arms above the loggias.
Inside, climb the wide main staircase with marble statues of the seven free arts along its sides. Look up to see the magnificent ceiling painting known as Praise and Recognition. Peek into the Tea Room where Emperor Franz Joseph once sipped his tea and be greeted with a glow of luxurious gold.
Join a guided tour to learn more details about the building’s fascinating architecture and history. If you want to learn even more, visit the nearby State Opera Museum by purchasing a combination ticket.
If you enjoy opera, you’ll want to book tickets for a show in one of the best opera houses in the world. The large auditorium has room for 2,200 spectators, but about a quarter of these are standing room only. Book early since the best seats in the house sell out fast.
The Vienna State Opera is located off Karlsplatz on the Ringstraße in central Vienna and is accessible by public transportation and on foot. You can park in the Kärntner Ring Garage for up to eight hours with a discount. English tours of the building are available for a fee and are held from the late morning until the late afternoon daily, except on some Sundays and public holidays.
