Evening at Schönbrunn Palace Vienna: 3-course Dinner and Concert

The Evening at Schönbrunn Palace Vienna: 3-course Dinner and Concert offers an elegant blend of culinary delight and world-class music set within the stunning grounds of one of Vienna’s most iconic landmarks. Priced at $116.93 per person, this approximately 4-hour experience combines a gourmet dinner at a nearby restaurant with a captivating concert featuring renowned works from Mozart and Strauss in the historic Orangery.

While the tour is frequently booked 53 days in advance, its popularity means it often sells out weeks ahead. It appeals most to those who appreciate classical music, cultural ambiance, and historical surroundings. A key highlight is the option to upgrade to VIP tickets, which include priority access and a glass of sparkling wine during the intermission. This performance, set in a venue with authentic Viennese charm, offers a refined evening, but some reviews suggest that the dinner experience can vary.

Key Points

• Includes a 3-course dinner at a restaurant within walking distance of Schönbrunn Palace
• Concert performed by the Schönbrunn Palace Orchestra features works by Mozart and Strauss
• Four seating categories available, with VIP tickets offering priority seating and drinks
• Location: The concert takes place in the Orangery at Schönbrunn Palace
• Duration: The entire experience lasts around 4 hours
• Advance booking is recommended to secure spots, especially in VIP categories
• Dinner menu includes consommé, braised beef, and apple strudel, with vegetarian options available upon request
• Not included: Beverages during dinner, concert program (€10), cloakroom fee (~€1), and transportation

Starting the Evening in the Palace Area

The tour begins at the Orangery of Schönbrunn Palace, located at Schönbrunner Schloßstraße 47, 1130 Wien. Guests are advised to arrive on time, as the experience involves a walk from the restaurant to the concert hall. The dinner occurs in a nearby restaurant, giving guests a chance to enjoy a short walk through the palace grounds before the musical performance.

The dinner is a three-course meal with options such as consommé with semolina dumplings, braised beef with shallot jus, and original Viennese apple strudel with whipped cream. Vegetarian alternatives can be requested in advance. However, some reviews note variability in the quality and service, with some guests mentioning delays and mediocre food, so expectations for the meal should be tempered accordingly.

The Venue: Schönbrunn Orangery and Its Atmosphere

The Orangery at Schönbrunn Palace hosts the concert in a splendid space that exudes tradition and elegance. The hall’s acoustics are praised, with reviews highlighting the beautiful sound and amazing performances by the Palace Orchestra. The venue also features ballet dancers and opera singers, including a soprano and baritone, who contribute to a lively, multi-layered musical experience.

Seating options vary, with four choices available, including the VIP category, which provides priority access, bar access, and two free drinks. The VIP tickets are especially popular, offering guests a more comfortable and exclusive experience, along with a glass of sparkling wine during the intermission.

The Musical Program: Classics from Mozart and Strauss

The concert opens with Mozart’s most prominent arias and duets, including ‘Don Giovanni,’ ‘Le Nozze di Figaro,’ and ‘Die Zauberflöte’. The program then transitions to Strauss’s operetta arias and waltzes, such as ‘Radetzkymarsch,’ ‘Die Fledermaus,’ and ‘The Blue Danube.’

The orchestra is led by a charismatic conductor, whose charming presence enhances the performance. The inclusion of ballet dancers and opera singers adds a dynamic flair, making this concert a lively showcase of Viennese musical tradition. The performance is suitable for those who enjoy orchestral works and vocal performances in an authentic historic setting.

The Dining Experience: Quality and Expectations

The 3-course dinner is served in a restaurant close to the concert venue, enabling a smooth transition from dining to music. Reviewers note that services can be slow with delays between courses, and the quality of the food varies from acceptable to mediocre.

Menu items include braised beef, apple strudel, and consommé, with vegetarian options available if requested beforehand. Beverages during dinner are not included in the package and are paid out of pocket. This aspect has drawn criticism, with some feeling the dinner does not quite match the elegant atmosphere of the venue or the high-caliber music.

Seating and Accessibility at the Concert Hall

The seating arrangements in the Orangery are designed to accommodate up to 20 travelers, with four different options to choose from. VIP tickets ensure priority seating and better views, which are highly recommended given the hall’s layout.

Guests with specific height needs or concerns about view obstructions should consider upgrading to VIP seating, which offers a more comfortable experience. The venue is located near public transportation, making it easy to reach, and the dress code is smart casual.

Additional Perks and Booking Details

Booking this tour well in advance is advised, as it regularly sells out. Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience, providing some flexibility. The ticket redemption takes place directly at the Orangery, with clear instructions provided at the time of booking.

For guests interested in enhancing their experience, the VIP tickets include priority access, a program (payable separately), bar privileges, two free drinks, and a cloakroom service. The concert program costs €10 and is not included in the ticket price.

Who Will Appreciate This Experience Most

This evening event suits those seeking a cultural and musical experience in Vienna’s historic setting. It is ideal for classical music lovers, history enthusiasts, and those who enjoy fine dining, although expectations for the dinner should be realistic due to mixed reviews.

The combination of a gourmet meal, authentic Viennese music, and the stunning architecture of Schönbrunn Palace makes this a memorable outing, especially for visitors wanting to combine culinary delights with cultural richness.

For those who prioritize dining quality over the concert, or prefer a more casual experience, other options might be worth exploring, but for an elegant, musical evening, this remains a popular choice.

The Sum Up: A Classical Night at Schönbrunn

The Evening at Schönbrunn Palace provides a refined taste of Vienna’s musical and culinary traditions. While the concert is consistently praised for its quality and ambiance, the dinner experience can vary, with some reviews highlighting delays and food quality issues.

Upgrading to VIP tickets can greatly enhance the evening, offering better seating, priority access, and drinks. The venue itself, set in the beautiful Orangery, creates a warm, authentic atmosphere that complements the classical program.

This tour is best suited for classical music fans who value a historic setting and are prepared for some variability in the dining experience. When booked in advance, it offers a memorable, culturally rich night in Vienna.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the dinner included in the ticket price?
Yes, the 3-course dinner is included in the $116.93 ticket price, served at a nearby restaurant.

Can I upgrade to VIP seating?
Yes, VIP tickets are available, which include priority seating, bar access, two free drinks, and a glass of sparkling wine during intermission.

Where does the concert take place?
The concert is held in the Orangery at Schönbrunn Palace. Some reviews mention alternative locations like the Great Gallery or White Gold Room, but the main venue is the Orangery.

What songs are performed during the concert?
The program features Mozart’s arias and duets such as ‘Don Giovanni,’ ‘Le Nozze di Figaro,’ and ‘Die Zauberflöte,’ followed by Strauss’s operetta arias and waltzes like ‘The Blue Danube.’

Is the experience suitable for children?
The description indicates most travelers can participate, but no specific age restrictions are mentioned. The concert’s classical nature might appeal more to adults.

How long is the entire experience?
The experience lasts approximately 4 hours, including dinner and the concert.

Are tickets refundable?
Yes, full refunds are available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refundable.

Is there parking at the venue?
The tour departs from the Orangery, which is near public transportation. No specific parking details are provided.

Are there vegetarian meal options?
Yes, vegetarian options can be requested in advance for the dinner.

What should I wear?
The dress code is smart casual, suitable for an elegant evening in a historic setting.