Christmas and New Year Concert at St. Peters Church in Vienna

Make your Christmas or New Year in Vienna truly special with a classical music concert in the historic St. Peters Church. Priced at $56.98 per person, this concert lasts approximately 1 hour to 1 hour 10 minutes and takes place in the heart of Vienna, offering an intimate and acoustically superb setting. The Classic Ensemble Vienna performs pieces composed by Mozart, Vivaldi, Bach, and Beethoven, creating a festive atmosphere that appeals to lovers of classical music and those seeking a memorable holiday experience.

The concert is highly recommended, with 91% of reviews indicating it as a top choice for holiday events in Vienna. Most bookings are made around 54 days in advance, making it a well-anticipated event during the Christmas season. While the ticket does not include hotel transportation or a CD at the entrance, the stunning setting and talented performances make this a worthwhile addition to a Vienna holiday itinerary.

Key Points

• Price: $56.98 per person, providing access to a 1-hour festive classical concert.
• Venue: St. Peters Church in Vienna, renowned for its baroque architecture and excellent acoustics.
• Performance: Features Mozart, Vivaldi, Bach, and Beethoven, performed by Classic Ensemble Vienna.
• Seating: Assigned on the day of the concert; seating is in church pews, which may be a bit uncomfortable for some.
• Timing: Concerts are typically booked 54 days in advance; scheduled for the evening.
• Experience: Perfect for those looking for a Christmas or New Year cultural highlight in a beautiful historic setting.

St. Peters Church: The Venue for a Festive Music Night

The concert takes place in St. Peters Church, a baroque masterpiece located in Vienna’s city center. The church’s golden altars and intricate decorations make it a striking setting for a concert. Its excellent acoustics enhance the sound of the classical ensemble, creating an immersive listening experience. The church is also close to public transportation, making access straightforward for visitors.

Many reviews highlight the church’s beauty, with some noting the addition of gorgeous Christmas trees that make the space even more festive during the holiday season. The atmosphere is described as warm and enchanting, perfect for celebrating Christmas or ringing in the New Year.

The Talented Classic Ensemble Vienna Performers

The Classic Ensemble Vienna leads the evening’s performances, showcasing highly talented musicians. They deliver beautiful renditions of works by Mozart, Vivaldi, Bach, and Beethoven, including Mozart’s Eine kleine Nachtmusik among other pieces. The quality of the musicianship is consistently praised, with many reviewers calling the performance outstanding.

While the repertoire does not feature specific Christmas hymns or songs, the classical pieces evoke a festive and elegant holiday mood. The acoustics in the church help each note resonate, making the performance feel intimate and powerful.

What to Expect During the 1-Hour Concert

The concert lasts around 1 hour to 1 hour 10 minutes, with seating assigned on arrival. The church pews are typical for such venues, which some find a little uncomfortable after prolonged sitting. Attendees can expect an uninterrupted concert of classical music, performed in a beautiful, historic setting.

The program includes classic works by renowned composers, creating a timeless holiday atmosphere. While no Christmas-specific music is played, the festive spirit is present through the grandeur of the music and the church’s decorations.

Practical Details and Logistics

This tour is suitable for most travelers, with no strict physical requirements. The concert is held in a centrally located church, near public transportation, which simplifies planning. Guests should dress smart-casual to match the elegant environment, and remember that seat assignment occurs on the day of the performance.

The ticket must be collected at the box office on the day of the concert. Since admission is free, the main cost is the ticket price. There are no included hotel transfers or souvenirs like CDs, but the experience of the concert itself offers excellent value. The tour operates with a maximum capacity of 250 travelers, ensuring a comfortable and intimate experience.

The Atmosphere and Audience Experience

Reviewers describe the church as breathtakingly beautiful, with gorgeous chandeliers and a warm, festive atmosphere. The sound quality is praised, with many noting the excellent acoustics that make the music feel especially rich. Some mention that seating on wooden pews can be uncomfortable after a while, and the church interior can be quite chilly—so bringing a coat is advisable.

The performance itself is often described as outstanding, with musicians delivering beautifully executed pieces. The concert’s timing in the evening makes it an ideal opportunity to enjoy a relaxing, cultural highlight after a day exploring Vienna’s Christmas markets or city sights.

Additional Notes from Review Feedback

Some reviews mention disappointment that the concert does not feature Christmas hymns or traditional Christmas music, despite being advertised as a Christmas event. It’s important to manage expectations if you’re specifically seeking holiday tunes. However, the quality of the performance and the venue’s beauty remain consistently praised.

A few reviewers have experienced booking issues with Viator, notably incorrect ticket delivery information leading to extra expenses—so it’s wise to arrive early and confirm ticket collection details. Most travelers find the value and experience worth the ticket price despite these minor concerns.

Vienna Christmas and New Year Concerts in a Historic Setting

The Christmas and New Year Concert at St. Peters Church offers a refined and festive experience for classical music lovers visiting Vienna during the holidays. The stunning baroque church provides a picturesque backdrop, elevating the concert to a memorable event. The talented musicians and beautiful acoustics ensure a high-quality performance, even if the program does not include specific Christmas songs.

While seating comfort and lack of Christmas music may be considerations, the overall atmosphere and setting have won praise from most attendees. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate classical repertoire in historic venues and want to combine cultural enrichment with holiday cheer.

This concert is a reliable choice for visitors seeking an elegant, intimate, and culturally rich experience in Vienna’s city center during the Christmas and New Year season.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this concert suitable for children?
The concert’s duration and setting make it appropriate for most ages, but the seating on church pews and the formal atmosphere may not appeal to very young children.

Are Christmas songs performed during the concert?
No, the repertoire features classical compositions by Mozart, Vivaldi, Bach, and Beethoven. There are no specific Christmas hymns or holiday tunes.

What should I wear for the concert?
Smart-casual attire is recommended, as the setting is elegant and historic.

Can I buy a CD of the performance?
No, CDs are not included but are typically available at the entrance for purchase.

Is the concert accessible via public transportation?
Yes, the church is near public transit, making it easy to reach from different parts of Vienna.

How far in advance should I book tickets?
Most tickets are booked around 54 days in advance, so it’s advisable to reserve early, especially during peak holiday periods.

What if I need to cancel?
This experience offers free cancellation, provided you cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled start.

Will I know my seat before the concert?
Seats are assigned by the box office on the day of the performance; specific seat numbers are not known in advance.

Is there any dress code?
Yes, smart-casual is recommended for the event.

What is the ticket collection process?
Your ticket will be held at the box office for collection upon arrival on the concert day.

Are there any other similar concerts in Vienna?
Yes, options include advent concerts in the Annakirche, Schonbrunn Palace evening concerts, and Mozarthaus performances, all offering different settings and repertoires.

This concert at St. Peters Church offers a beautiful and culturally enriching way to celebrate the holidays in Vienna. With its spectacular venue and talented performers, it promises an experience that won’t be forgotten, especially for those who value exceptional acoustics and historic surroundings.