Attending a performance at the Vienna State Opera (Staatsoper) is absolutely worth it, offering a world-class cultural experience with top-tier acoustics and productions in a historic 1869 building. As one of the busiest opera houses globally, it features nearly daily performances. It is considered a must-do for music lovers, with options for all budgets, including very affordable, last-minute standing-room tickets.
“Definitely go to Staatsoper Wein – it's an impressive building with the best acoustics, orchestra and singers of Austria!” The Vienna State Opera House opened in May 1869 after six years of construction – and its beautiful interior was worth the wait, with grand staircsaes and Renaissance façades.
For Operas in Vienna, “Formal” wear is highly recommended, but not required. We recommend “Business Attire”. IMPORTANT: Short Trousers (Shorts) for Gentleman are explicitly NOT ALLOWED. For Musicals and Other Events there is no dress code.
La Bohème If you open your big book of outstanding cultural encounters, then a performance at the Staatsoper sits right up at the top of the list... sandwiched somewhere in among seeing The Birth of Venus at the Uffizi gallery or Macbeth in Stratford.
Admission to the building for performances begins one hour before the start of the performance. Outside of a performance or guided tour, only our box office and our opera café are freely accessible.
What To Do In VIENNA (Travel Guide) Wiener Staatsoper Prices and Opening Hours - Vienna State Opera
Is the opera house tour worth it?
This is a great tour, our guide was excellent and we learnt loads about the Opera House and its history During the tour we were really lucky to be able to go into two of the halls, were they were practising for an upcoming opera in one; the acoustics were incredible and for a ballet in the other Highly recommend !!
Audience members can individually switch on subtitles – in German, English, Italian, French, Spanish, Russian, Chinese and Japanese. The 2,021 displays at the seats also offer information about the cast and contents of the performance (in German or English).
If you like jeans, like I do, you can wear them no problem in Vienna: just make sure you select a well fitting pair, clean and match if with a nice top so that you dress them up rather than down. Pair them up with fashion sneakers, ankle boots or ballerina shoes (no runners if you want to remotely blend in!)
The official Vienna State Opera website is the primary platform for ticket sales, providing a comprehensive schedule of upcoming performances and an online booking system. The website also offers detailed seating plans, allowing you to select your preferred seats based on availability and price.
A picturesque city in the heart of Austria, Salzburg is a must-visit destination for every traveler. Known for its rich history, stunning architecture and breathtaking natural beauty, Salzburg is a city that has something to offer for everyone.
For many people, attending the Vienna Opera Ball is a lifelong dream. When the lights in the Vienna State Opera shine a little brighter than usual and the words “Alles Walzer!” are called, a night of splendour and unforgettable moments begins. The Opera Ball is far more than a social event.
Ottakring, situated in the western part of Vienna, is a diverse district known for its vibrant atmosphere. Most of Ottakring is safe. But areas around the Ottakring U-Bahn station and Gürtel Street are sketchy. Especially at night, you might encounter drunk people or people fighting.
This being said, here is what you should not miss when it comes to Vienna's traditional food: Wiener Schnitzel, Spare Ribs, Tafelspitz, Goulash, Würst, Kaiserschmarrn, Apple Strudel with Vanilla Sauce, and Sachertorte.
Petty crime, such as bag snatching and pickpocketing, is common. Be careful on public transport and in areas popular with tourists. Take care using ATMs. Avalanches, flash floods and mudslides occur in alpine areas.
Yes, you can wear jeans to the opera, especially at modern venues or for regular performances, but it depends on the specific opera house, the event (gala vs. regular show), and your personal comfort, though dark, smart jeans with a nice top are generally better than distressed denim, as many still dress up for the occasion. It's always safest to check the venue's website, but smart casual (like dark jeans, a blouse, and a jacket) is often acceptable for everyday shows, while galas call for formal wear.
Costumes, sets, props, lights, sound effects… don't come cheap and they all cost money. Add to the cost, the professional salaries of singers, dancers, supernumeraries, musicians, as well as, administrative and support staff – and, putting on a live opera production becomes extremely expensive.
