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

Evening at Schönbrunn Palace Vienna: 3-course Dinner and Concert offers a charming way to spend an elegant evening in Austria’s capital. For $116.93 per person, you’ll enjoy a 4-hour experience that combines fine dining, classical music, and the historic beauty of one of Vienna’s most iconic sites. The experience begins with a delicious three-course meal in a nearby restaurant before heading to the Orangery to listen to a spectacular concert performed by the Schönbrunn Palace Orchestra. The concert features beloved works by Mozart and Strauss, with options to upgrade to VIP seating, which includes a glass of sparkling wine during intermission.

Two things we love about this experience are its authentic setting—the Orangery, a venue with a long tradition of musical performances—and the variety of seating options, allowing you to choose a level of comfort that fits your budget. Plus, the concert’s program, featuring operatic arias, waltzes, and operetta pieces, really captures Vienna’s musical soul. On the flip side, a potential drawback is that the dinner’s quality can vary, with some reviews mentioning delayed service or average food. Also, the event tends to sell out weeks in advance, so booking early is a smart move.

This experience suits travelers who appreciate classical music, enjoy elegant dining experiences, and want a taste of Vienna’s musical tradition in a historic setting. It’s perfect for couples, culture seekers, or anyone looking to combine a memorable meal with a concert in a relaxed, yet refined atmosphere.

Key Points

• Authentic Venue: The concert takes place in the Orangery, a historic location linked to Mozart himself.
• Three-Course Dinner: Enjoy a thoughtfully prepared meal, with vegetarian options available upon request.
• High-Quality Music: The Schönbrunn Palace Orchestra performs works by Strauss and Mozart, complemented by ballet dancers and opera singers.
• Upgrade Options: VIP tickets include priority seating, a glass of sparkling wine, and access to the concert hall’s bar.
• Advance Booking Essential: The tour often sells out weeks ahead, so plan early.
• Mixed Reviews on Food: The dinner is generally good but can experience delays or variability in quality.

A Truly Unique Viennese Evening

When we picture an evening in Vienna, we think of music floating through the air, grand palaces, and a touch of regal elegance. That’s precisely what this tour promises: a taste of royalty with a contemporary twist. The combination of a locally-sourced 3-course dinner and a world-class concert feels like an authentic way to connect with Vienna’s musical spirit without the overwhelming crowds or touristy trappings.

The experience begins in a nearby restaurant, where you’ll be served a classic Viennese starter like consommé with semolina dumplings or a robust braised beef with Viennese potato tart. Unlike many dinner-concert packages that skimp on quality, this meal is appreciated for its attention to traditional flavors and flexible vegetarian options—something several reviews note positively.

Afterward, you’ll stroll a short distance to the Orangery—a glass-domed hall with a long-standing musical tradition. The venue itself is stunning, with its elegant architecture providing a perfect backdrop for the evening’s performances. Here, the Schönbrunn Palace Orchestra performs a selection of Mozart’s arias and duets, including pieces from Don Giovanni and The Magic Flute, as well as Strauss’s most famous waltzes and operetta arias like “Die Fledermaus” and “The Blue Danube.”

What makes this concert special isn’t just the repertoire but the setting—the lush surroundings and the sense of timeless elegance. Two ballet dancers, a soprano, and a baritone join the orchestra, elevating the performance beyond a simple musical recital. Reviewers frequently mention the quality of the music, with some describing it as “first rate” and “amazing”. The VIP upgrade adds extra comfort, giving you priority access and a refreshing glass of sparkling wine during the intermission.

An Honest Look at the Experience

While most reviews sing praises, a few highlight areas for improvement. The dinner, in particular, can be inconsistent. Some mention delays and average meals, with one reviewer noting that the service was “very slow” and the food “mediocre”. It’s worth noting that the dinner location is just a short walk from the concert hall, which is convenient, but some found the restaurant ambiance lacked “atmosphere,” especially if you’re expecting a grand palace setting.

Timing can also be tight, especially if you’re arriving from a long journey. One review mentioned falling asleep during the performance because they hadn’t had time to adjust to Vienna’s schedule. To minimize this, we recommend doing the package later in your trip or after a good rest.

Getting to the venue is straightforward if you’re familiar with Vienna’s public transport, but some reviews suggest that instructions could be clearer. The ticket pickup is in the Orangery itself, and it’s good to note that seating in the concert hall isn’t assigned unless you upgrade to VIP. Also, drinks during dinner are not included, which adds to the overall cost if you’re a thirsty traveler.

Still, these concerns are minor compared to the overall charm. The concert in this historic setting feels genuinely special, and the dinner offers a chance to relax and savor local flavors. The small group size (max 20 travelers) helps ensure a more intimate experience, which many reviews find more enjoyable.

What You’ll Experience Step-by-Step

Starting Point: The meeting is at the Orangery on Schönbrunn Palace grounds. You’ll check in and receive your tickets, with the option to choose your seating category.

Pre-Concert Dinner: You’ll walk to a nearby restaurant, about a 5-minute stroll, where a three-course meal awaits. The menu features traditional Viennese dishes like consommé, braised beef, and apple strudel. If you prefer vegetarian, just request it in advance.

During Dinner: You can enjoy your meal at a relaxed pace, although some reviews note that service can be slow. Be sure to arrive early enough so you’re not rushed, especially if you want to savor each course.

Walk to the Orangery: After dinner, it’s a short walk back to the concert venue, where you’ll be shown to your seat.

Concert Time: The orchestra performs a selection of Mozart’s most beloved arias and duets, followed by Strauss’s operetta hits and waltzes. The performance lasts about an hour and a half, with ballet dancers and vocalists adding visual flair.

VIP Perks: If you upgrade, you’ll get priority seating, access to a bar, two drinks, and the concert program for €10.

End of the Evening: The concert wraps up, and you’re free to stroll around Schönbrunn Palace grounds if you wish, or head back to your hotel.

Is This Experience Worth It?

Absolutely, if you’re after a blend of culture, history, and music in an authentic Viennese setting. The concert in the Orangery is routinely praised for its quality and atmosphere, and the three-course dinner adds a touch of indulgence.

However, if you’re a foodie expecting a gourmet meal or want a more immersive palace experience, you might find the dining component somewhat underwhelming. The concert’s location in the Orangery, rather than inside the palace itself, might also feel slightly removed from your expectations of regal splendor. But for many, the musical performance alone makes the entire evening worthwhile.

Booking well in advance is recommended since this experience is popular and often sells out weeks ahead. Consider doing it later in your stay to relax and enjoy Vienna’s musical heritage without feeling rushed after a long travel day.

Who Should Consider This?

This tour is ideal for classical music lovers, those who enjoy elegant settings, and travelers looking for a cultural highlight in Vienna. It’s a good choice for romantic evenings, small groups, or anyone eager to combine dining and music seamlessly. If your goal is to experience Vienna’s musical tradition in a historic venue, this package hits the mark.

FAQ

• Is the concert held inside Schönbrunn Palace?
  No, it takes place in the Orangery, a historic glass hall on the palace grounds, with occasional relocations to other palace rooms without notice.

• What’s included in the VIP ticket?
  Priority access, reserved seating, two free drinks, a program, and access to the bar during intermission are part of the VIP package.

• Can I request a vegetarian meal?
  Yes, vegetarian options are available if requested in advance.

• How far in advance should I book?
  Since the tour sells out often weeks ahead, booking about 53 days in advance is typical.

• Are drinks during dinner included?
  No, beverages during dinner are extra and must be paid for separately.

• Is the dress code strict?
  No, but smart casual attire is recommended for an elegant experience.

• How long is the concert?
  The performance runs approximately 90 minutes.

• Are seats assigned in the concert hall?
  Only VIP seats are reserved; general seating is first come, first served.

• What if I want to cancel?
  You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

• Is this experience suitable for children?
  It’s generally suitable for older children or teens who enjoy classical music; the setting is quite refined.

To sum it up, this Evening at Schönbrunn Palace offers a balanced and memorable way to enjoy Vienna’s musical heritage. The combination of a classic Viennese dinner and a high-quality concert in a historic setting makes for a refined night out. While the dinner may not suit everyone’s palate, the musical performances and the stunning venue stand as a testament to Vienna’s enduring charm. Perfect for romantic evenings, culture buffs, or first-time visitors wanting a taste of Vienna’s famous musical ambiance. Book early, arrive prepared, and you’ll likely find yourself enchanted by the music, history, and elegance all around.