Vienna provides the perfect setting for opera, classical music, waltzes and drinking music—something for every taste. The gilded, baroque Staatsoper (State Opera) on the Ring and the Volksoper (People's Opera) in the Ninth district make Vienna a mecca for opera lovers. The Musikverein on Karlsplatz and the Konzerthaus nearby are two premier concert halls, famous for their beautiful interiors; the Musikverein is renowned as well for its acoustics (the Vienna Philharmonic performs there), and its Goldener Saal is host to a famous New Year's Day concert.
The Vienna Boys Choir sings on High Mass Sundays and religious holidays in the chapel of the Hofburg. And Viennese churches host performances of some of the most beautiful music ever composed, including organ concerts and choral performances.
In July and August, there are excellent summer concerts in the courtyard of the Rathaus (free open-air films of operas and ballets, too) and at Schonbrunn. During Rathaus events, there are often stalls selling international cuisine, creating a festival atmosphere. For theater programs, visit http://www.culturall.at.
Venues
The Staatsoper and the Volksoper host both ballet and opera. International requests for tickets to either venue can be made by phone (starting 29 days before a performance) or online.
If you haven't purchased tickets before your trip, you might still be able to buy them from the ticket office located at the side of the Staatsoper (near the book and music shop) or at the ticket office at the Bundestheaterverband. A more expensive option is to purchase them through a ticket broker or hotel (expect to pay a premium). Standing-room tickets are sold at the box office prior to the performance. For particularly popular performances, plan on showing up hours ahead to stand in line.
