KuK perfumery Filz – the fragrance of empress Sisi

Exploring Vienna’s Perfume Heritage at Filz Perfumery

If you’re passionate about fragrances or simply curious about Vienna’s aromatic past, the KuK Perfumery Filz tour offers a charming and educational experience. As Vienna’s oldest perfumery, it’s a place where history and scent intertwine, and luckily, you don’t have to be a perfume expert to enjoy it. For about 45 minutes, a small group of no more than eight people gets the chance to explore the secrets behind Vienna’s perfuming traditions, all led by knowledgeable guides who bring the story to life.

What really makes this tour stand out is the chance to smell and sample a wide variety of fragrances—from centuries-old recipes to modern interpretations—plus the delightful bonus of taking home a small bottle of traditional Viennese perfume. It’s a personal, intimate experience that combines history, culture, and sensory delights in a way that feels both authentic and memorable.

One small consideration is that the tour is quite short—just under an hour—so if you’re expecting a deep dive into perfumery techniques, you might find it more of an overview. But for those interested in the stories behind the scents and a taste of Vienna’s aristocratic perfume legacy, this experience hits the mark perfectly. It’s especially ideal for travelers who enjoy learning about local traditions in a cozy, engaging setting.

This tour is best suited for curious travelers who appreciate history and scents alike. Whether you’re a perfume lover or simply want a unique cultural activity in Vienna, the Filz perfumery experience offers both education and enjoyment—an aroma-filled journey through the city’s past.

Key Points

• Vienna’s Oldest Perfumery: Over 214 years of history and tradition.
• Sensory Experience: Smell and sample a variety of traditional Viennese fragrances.
• Exclusive Souvenir: Take home a 5ml bottle of Viennese perfume at no extra charge.
• Small Group: Max 8 participants for a personalized and engaging experience.
• Expert Guides: Learn about the family behind the perfumery and their centuries-old recipes.
• Cultural Deep Dive: Discover what Empress Sisi and Vienna’s aristocracy might have scented like.

An In-Depth Look at the Perfume Tour

The Setting and Atmosphere
The tour begins at Café Frauenhuber, a cozy, historic venue in Vienna’s city center. Sitting here, you’re immediately transported into the city’s storied past—perfectly fitting for a journey into perfume history. The meeting point’s central location makes it easily accessible by public transport, a plus for travelers staying downtown.

Historic Perfumery and Its Legacy
Filz Perfumery, which closed its doors after 214 years, was once a royal favorite, exclusively catering to Austria’s imperial family, including Empress Sisi herself. As we learned from the guides, this place wasn’t just a shop but a part of Vienna’s aristocratic lifestyle. The guide, an engaging storyteller, walks us through the family’s role in maintaining and passing down recipes that date back centuries.

Fragrance Sampling and Stories
The core of the experience is the smelling session. You’ll get to inhale a variety of scents that have been crafted using traditional ingredients, many of which are secret or rare. The guide explains how perfumes were produced in the 1800s and what made Viennese fragrances unique—often involving exclusive ingredients and meticulous craftsmanship.

A highlight is the chance to smell the perfumes the emperor and empress once enjoyed. One attendee, Roxana, praised the experience, saying it was “very nice” and appreciated the “informative story told by a very sweet man.” It’s clear that the guides’ knowledge adds a warm, personal touch to the experience—making history feel accessible and real.

Learning About Viennese Fragrance Traditions
The tour not only focuses on scent but also on the cultural significance of perfume in Vienna’s society. You hear about how perfumes became a part of daily life, especially among the upper classes, and how they often reflected social status and personal identity.

The Perfume You Get to Take Home
As a tangible memento, each participant receives a 5ml bottle of traditional Viennese perfume. Reviewers, like Katherine, noted how fascinating it was to learn about this family-run business, and how the legacy of their recipes remains alive today. This small bottle is a lovely keepsake that offers a taste of Vienna long after your visit.

Additional Comforts
While enjoying your perfume tasting, you’re invited to sip on a drink of your choice—be it coffee, tea, or perhaps a glass of wine—adding a relaxed, social element. The tour’s capped at eight people, which ensures a close-up, personalized experience with ample time for questions.

Evaluating the Value

At $34.70 per person, this tour offers excellent value for those interested in history, culture, and sensory pleasures. Compared to larger, busier tours, the small-group setting makes it more engaging and allows guides to tailor their stories. Learning about a family business that’s been around for over two centuries, combined with the opportunity to smell authentic recipes, makes this a worthwhile cultural activity.

On top of that, the included souvenir of a traditional Viennese perfume adds a nice finishing touch, turning this experience into both an educational and a memorable keepsake. The duration—just under an hour—means it fits easily into a day of sightseeing without feeling rushed.

The Experience from Reviews

Reviewers consistently point out the excellent guide and the fascinating stories behind the perfumes. Katherine was especially taken with the legacy of the family business—“the history and legacy was incredible”—while Dilly appreciated the “story and journey” of the recipes, which still use old recipes. Roxana valued the informative explanation and the opportunity to learn about perfume ingredients and traditions.

One common thread is the authenticity of the experience. You’re not just smelling perfumes—you’re stepping into Vienna’s aristocratic past, guided by passionate storytellers who love sharing their heritage.

Practical Details

• Meeting Point: Café Frauenhuber, Himmelpfortgasse 6, 1010 Wien
• Start Time: 5:00 pm
• Duration: About 45 minutes
• Group Size: Max 8 participants
• Price: $34.70 per person
• Booking: Recommended 26 days in advance, ensuring availability
• Accessibility: Near public transportation
• Cancellation: Free cancel up to 24 hours before

Who Is This Tour Perfect For?

This experience is ideal for history buffs, perfume enthusiasts, and travelers seeking a relaxed, intimate activity that combines culture with a sensory journey. It’s perfect for those who enjoy stories of family legacies and vintage recipes, or anyone interested in Vienna’s aristocratic traditions. The small-group nature makes it suitable for couples, friends, or solo travelers wanting a personal touch.

However, if you’re expecting a comprehensive perfumery workshop or a detailed behind-the-scenes look at modern perfuming techniques, this tour remains more of an enticing overview—albeit a beautifully curated one.

The Sum Up

For a modest price, the KuK Perfumery Filz tour offers a delightful glimpse into Vienna’s fragrant past. It balances storytelling, sensory exploration, and cultural insight into a compact experience that feels both genuine and engaging. The expert guides and the chance to smell scents once reserved for royalty are big highlights, making it well worth the time for curious travelers.

This tour is especially suited for those who value authentic, small-group experiences that go beyond the typical sightseeing. You’ll walk away not only with a beautiful perfume but with a deeper appreciation for Vienna’s aromatic history—an aromatic souvenir that lasts well beyond your trip.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
While the reviews mention that children aged 8 and 9 might find the experience a little young, it’s generally designed for adults or older children interested in history and scents.

How long does the tour last?
The experience is approximately 45 minutes, making it easy to fit into a busy sightseeing day.

What’s included in the price?
You receive a small group experience, with the chance to smell various perfumes and a 5ml bottle of traditional Viennese perfume to take home.

Are there any restrictions?
Most travelers can participate; the tour is held in a historic venue near public transportation, accessible for most.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, there’s free cancellation available if you cancel at least 24 hours before the tour.

Is this tour suitable for perfume novices?
Absolutely. Guides are great storytellers and will explain the fragrances and their history in an engaging way, regardless of your knowledge level.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking about 26 days ahead is recommended to secure your spot, especially during peak seasons.

Where exactly does the tour start and end?
It begins and ends at Café Frauenhuber, located at Himmelpfortgasse 6, in Vienna’s city center.

What’s the best time to do this tour?
The 5:00 pm start is perfect for winding down after a day of sightseeing, but check availability as times can vary.

This perfume-focused tour combines history, culture, and a sensory delight that’s hard to match in Vienna. Ideal for those who love authentic experiences and want a fragrant souvenir of their visit.