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

Imagine an evening where you can enjoy delicious Viennese cuisine paired with a live classical concert within the historic walls of Schönbrunn Palace. This experience offers a delightful blend of culture, music, and fine dining—perfect for those who want a touch of sophistication in their Vienna trip. Whether you’re a music lover, a history buff, or just after a memorable night out, this package promises a taste of Vienna’s legendary charm.

What we love most about this experience is the setting—the Orangery, with its elegant ambiance and history dating back to Mozart’s time, makes for an atmospheric concert hall. The concert itself features renowned works from Mozart and Strauss, performed by talented musicians with a bit of flair from ballet dancers and vocalists, elevating the evening from simply good to truly memorable. One thing to keep in mind is that the dinner quality seems to vary depending on reviews, so it’s worth considering whether you want a relaxed meal or just the concert and surroundings.

This experience is best suited for travelers who appreciate classical music, enjoy a touch of luxury, and want an authentic cultural outing. If you’re visiting Vienna and looking for an activity that combines history, music, and cuisine—all within a reasonable price point—this could be a highlight of your trip. However, those expecting a high-end gourmet meal might find the dining component less impressive than the concert or venue itself.

Key Points

• Location: Set inside the historic Schönbrunn Palace grounds, with the concert held in the charming Orangery.
• Package: Combines a 3-course dinner at a nearby restaurant with a classical concert featuring Mozart and Strauss.
• Seating Options: Four different seating categories, with VIP tickets offering priority access and a glass of sparkling wine.
• Duration: Roughly 4 hours from start to finish, including dinner, concert, and walking between locations.
• Value: Positioned at around $117 per person, it offers a compelling mix of culture, entertainment, and dining—though some reviews suggest the meal could be better.
• Booking: Most guests book well in advance—about 53 days on average—to secure preferred seating and avoid sell-outs.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Starting with Dinner

The evening begins with a 3-course meal at a restaurant within walking distance from Schönbrunn Palace. The menu features classic Viennese dishes like consommé with semolina dumplings and braised beef roast with shallot jus, served with traditional sides such as Viennese potato tart and tomatoes. A vegetarian option can be requested, making it accessible for different dietary preferences.

From reviews, guests generally find the food to be good but not exceptional. One guest pointed out that the service was slow and the restaurant lacked atmosphere, which might be a disappointment for those expecting a lively, high-end dining experience. Others appreciated the proximity and found the meal pleasant enough to set the mood for the evening.

The Concert at the Orangery

After the meal, you walk over to the Orangery, where the Schönbrunn Palace Orchestra performs a curated program. Expect to hear Mozart’s most famous arias and duets, like those from Don Giovanni and Le Nozze di Figaro, as well as Strauss’s lively operetta arias and waltzes such as “The Blue Danube” and “Radetzkymarsch.” The inclusion of ballet dancers and opera singers (a soprano and a baritone) adds a lively touch to the performance.

The venue itself is a highlight, with many reviewers describing it as beautiful and historic. The acoustics are generally praised, and the setting offers a sense of stepping back into a regal past. One guest noted, “The concert was beautiful, and the acoustics were amazing. For a performance hall of this caliber, the seat layout needs improvement,” pointing to occasional sightline issues, especially for shorter guests.

VIP Experience and Seating

For those seeking a little extra, VIP tickets include priority access, a glass of sparkling wine during intermission, and a program booklet. Guests with VIP tickets also enjoy better seats and easier access to the hall, which might be worth considering if you’re looking for comfort and a touch of luxury.

Overall Value and Atmosphere

Most guests agree that the concert is the main highlight—the musicians and vocalists perform with passion and professionalism. The combination of music, setting, and history makes this a memorable experience, especially for classical enthusiasts.

However, the dinner quality receives mixed reviews. Several reviewers mention that the meal was “mediocre,” with delays and inconsistent service. Some felt it was more a functional meal than a culinary highlight. Still, many find that the overall ambiance, the surroundings, and the musical performance make up for the dining shortcomings.

Practical Considerations

• The tour typically sells out weeks in advance, so early booking is recommended.
• The experience lasts about 4 hours, including time for dinner and the concert.
• It’s near public transportation, so getting there isn’t an issue.
• Dress code is smart casual, and dressing up a bit will enhance the experience.
• Photography and smoking are not permitted inside the concert hall.
• The concert venue might occasionally change to the Great Gallery or White Gold Room within Schönbrunn Palace without notice.
• If you have specific dietary needs, requesting a vegetarian menu beforehand is possible.

What Reviewers Have Said

Guests consistently praise the concert—describing performances as “first-rate” and “beautifully performed.” Many comment on the stunning surroundings and the sense of stepping into a fairy tale. The musicians’ talent and vocalists’ performances are frequently highlighted as highlights.

On the flip side, some criticize the dinner for being slow, mediocre, or lacking atmosphere. One review pointed out that the restaurant lacked a vibrant ambiance and that the meal was rushed, especially if you’re eager to enjoy the concert fully. Others mention the seat layout as a concern, particularly for shorter guests who might find their view obstructed.

Location and Accessibility

The location inside the Schönbrunn Palace grounds is a major plus, offering a sense of history and grandeur. The Orangery is within walking distance from the main palace, which is convenient, but some reviews suggest clearer directions could improve the experience. The activity starts at the Orangery at Schönbrunnstrasse 47.

Duration and Flexibility

While the 4-hour duration fits comfortably into an evening plan, guests advise planning for some flexibility. The timing of dinner and the concert means you should be prepared for a reasonably paced evening. Also, those arriving from far away might find the concert schedule a bit late if they’re tired from travel.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

For travelers craving a classical music experience in a historic setting, this evening at Schönbrunn Palace provides a compelling package. The concert is the star of the show, with talented performers and a venue that oozes elegance. The dinner, while pleasant, might not satisfy gourmet expectations but still offers a taste of Viennese cuisine.

If you’re after authenticity, ambiance, and culture, this experience hits the mark. It’s especially suitable for those celebrating a special occasion or looking for a refined night out in Vienna’s royal surroundings. However, if your priority is culinary excellence, you might want to consider other options or plan to enjoy the concert as the main event.

Overall, it offers good value for money, especially if you opt for the VIP seating, and tends to sell out quickly. Just be sure to book early and manage expectations around the dinner quality.

FAQ

Is the concert held inside Schönbrunn Palace?
Not exactly. The concert takes place in the Orangery, which is part of the palace grounds but separate from the main palace buildings.

Can I request a vegetarian menu?
Yes, vegetarian options are available if requested in advance, making it accessible for different dietary needs.

What does the VIP ticket include?
VIP tickets offer priority seating, access to the concert hall and bar, a glass of sparkling wine during intermission, a program, and use of the cloakroom.

How long does the entire experience last?
The activity lasts approximately 4 hours, including dinner, walking time, and the concert.

Are the tickets sold out easily?
Yes, this experience tends to sell out weeks ahead, so early booking is highly recommended.

Is there a dress code?
Yes, smart casual is suggested, and dressing up a bit adds to the special atmosphere.

Is transportation to the venue difficult?
No, the Orangery is near public transportation, making it easy to reach from most parts of Vienna.

What should I know about the location?
The concert is held at the Orangery, a historic building with a charming, regal feel. It might occasionally be relocated to other palace rooms without notice, but this is rare.

In the end, this evening combines the elegance of Vienna’s musical tradition with the beauty of Schönbrunn’s grounds. While the dinner may not be the highlight for everyone, the spectacular concert and stunning setting make it a memorable choice for a cultured night out.