Vienna: Schönbrunn Palace Evening Tour, Dinner and Concert

Key Points

• Includes an after-hours self-guided tour of Schönbrunn Palace with an audio guide available in 16 languages.
• Enjoy a traditional 3-course Austrian dinner at a nearby restaurant, with vegetarian options upon request.
• Attend a classical concert in the Schönbrunn Orangery, featuring Mozart and Strauss pieces, with performances by opera singers.
• Options for seating range from Category A with a glass of sparkling wine to VIP tickets that include priority access and a welcome drink.
• The tour lasts around 6 hours, starting with the palace visit at 5:30 PM, followed by dinner and the concert in the evening.

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Exploring Schönbrunn Palace After Hours

This evening experience at Schönbrunn Palace begins with an exclusive after-hours tour. The tour allows visitors to explore the palace’s magnificent architecture and interiors without the usual crowds. An audio guide, available in 16 languages, provides detailed stories about imperial life, Empress Maria Theresa, and Emperor Franz Joseph I, making it both informative and personal.

The self-guided aspect means you can take your time while marveling at the palace’s decor and history. The tour starts at 5:30 PM at the main entrance of Schönbrunn Palace, and the experience offers a more intimate view of this historic residence. The reviews highlight that the private atmosphere and the chance to walk through the rooms with little crowding enhance the visit.

Traditional Austrian Dinner in Schönbrunn

After the palace tour, visitors are invited to dine at a nearby traditional Austrian restaurant, typically Gerstners inside the palace grounds. The 3-course meal features classic dishes like semolina dumpling soup, Austrian roast beef with braised potatoes and vegetables, and Viennese apple strudel for dessert.

The dinner is praised for its authentic flavors and solid quality, though some reviews suggest the meal is average, but still satisfying. Vegetarian options are available if requested in advance. It’s worth noting that drinks with dinner are not included, but the dining experience offers a nice taste of Austrian cuisine amidst a historical setting.

Concert at the Schönbrunn Orangery

Following dinner, the evening continues at the Schönbrunn Orangery for a classical concert. This setting, a magnificent historic hall, provides a unique backdrop for performances of Mozart and Strauss music. Expect highlights from Mozart operas such as ‘The Marriage of Figaro’, ‘The Magic Flute’, and ‘Don Giovanni’.

The second half of the concert showcases waltzes and polkas by Johann Strauss I & II, including ‘The Blue Danube’ and ‘Radetzky March’. The music is performed by a full orchestra, and particularly opera singers add a captivating touch to the program. The venue’s ambiance, combined with the musicians’ talent, makes this part of the evening especially memorable.

The seating categories influence the experience, with Category A including a glass of sparkling wine, while VIP tickets offer priority access, a welcome drink, a program booklet, and a free cloak check. The concert runs from 8:30 PM to around 10:15 PM.

Practical Details and Meeting Logistics

The meeting point is at the main entrance of Schönbrunn Palace, after entering through the main gate and turning left. Reviewers note that the location can be confusing if not familiar with the area, so arriving by 5:15 PM is recommended. The tickets, dinner vouchers, and palace tour passes are provided directly at the Visitors Entrance in the palace’s left wing, with a map included.

The tour lasts approximately 6 hours, with the palace tour beginning at 5:30 PM, dinner at 6:30 PM, and the concert doors opening at 8:00 PM. The concert itself starts at 8:30 PM and concludes around 10:15 PM.

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Accessibility and Additional Information

The experience is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for guests with mobility needs. The language options for the audio guide and host staff are German and English. The venue enforces a no video recording policy to preserve the concert’s atmosphere.

The tour offers free cancellation up to 3 days in advance, providing flexibility in case plans change. The dinner menu can be tailored to vegetarians if requested beforehand.

Highlights of the Experience

Many reviews emphasize that the private feel of the palace tour and the magnificent concert are major highlights. The quality of the music, especially the performances by the two opera singers, receives high praise. Guests enjoy the opportunity to experience Vienna’s musical heritage in a historic setting.

However, some reviews mention logistical challenges, such as confusing meeting points or long wait times for seating at the concert. The dinner’s quality receives mixed comments, with some finding it delicious and others considering it average. The location of the restaurant outside the palace grounds has been noted as a walk that might be difficult for guests with limited mobility.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour

This evening tour is ideal for visitors who want a combination of history, culture, and music in one experience. It suits those who appreciate classical music, enjoy authentic Austrian cuisine, and want to explore Schönbrunn Palace after hours in a less crowded environment.

The concert in the Orangery, with its historic ambiance and up-close performances, appeals most to music lovers and history enthusiasts alike. Guests seeking a luxurious, well-rounded cultural evening in Vienna will find this tour offers solid value and a memorable experience.

Final Thoughts on the Schönbrunn Evening Experience

The Vienna: Schönbrunn Palace Evening Tour, Dinner, and Concert offers a comprehensive cultural night in Vienna’s most famous palace. The self-guided palace tour in the evening provides an intimate view of imperial rooms, especially appreciated for the lack of crowds.

The dinner adds an authentic touch, though some might find it average, while the concert in the magnificent Orangery becomes the highlight, with superb performances and a beautiful setting. The variety of ticket options allows guests to choose their preferred level of luxury and comfort.

This experience is most suitable for those who value history, music, and Vienna’s royal past and are willing to enjoy a full evening of culture. While logistical aspects like meeting points and seat arrangements require some planning, the overall quality of performances and ambiance makes it worth considering for a special night out.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a dress code for the concert?
There is no specified dress code, but smart casual attire is appropriate for the elegant setting of Schönbrunn.

Are vegetarian options available for dinner?
Yes, vegetarian menus can be requested in advance to accommodate dietary preferences.

What is included in the VIP ticket?
VIP tickets include a welcome drink, priority access to the concert hall and bar, a glass of sparkling wine, a program booklet, and free cloak check.

Can I bring drinks with me?
Drinks with dinner are not included, and the policy does not specify bringing outside drinks to the concert.

How long does the concert last?
The concert typically begins at 8:30 PM and ends around 10:15 PM.

Is the palace tour self-guided?
Yes, it is a self-guided tour with an audio guide available in 16 languages.

What about accessibility?
The activity is wheelchair accessible.

Where do I meet for the tour?
The meeting point is at the main entrance of Schönbrunn Palace, with arrival recommended by 5:15 PM.

Are tickets provided on-site?
Yes, tickets, dinner vouchers, and concert passes are given directly at the Visitors Entrance.

Is there free cancellation?
Yes, tickets can be canceled up to 3 days in advance for a full refund.

Can I record videos during the concert?
Video recording is not allowed to preserve the concert’s atmosphere.

Would you recommend this experience?
Yes, especially for those interested in Vienna’s royal history and classical music, seeking a luxurious yet intimate evening in a stunning setting.

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