Arts & Delights in Vienna

The empire of the Habsburgs encompassed much of Europe, at times ruling lands in Italy, Germany, the Netherlands, Hungary, Poland and Bohemia whose monarchs and nobility often resided in the imperial capital. This cultural heritage is now housed in a fine array of museums and palaces.

The musicians who relied on patronage also congregated in Vienna, including Mozart, Strauss, Beethoven, Schubert and Haydn. Joseph Haydn became first a member of the Vienna Boys’ Choir, then rose to become court musician to Prince Esterhazy. He died in 1809 as Napoleon was occupying Vienna and the latter gave him a ‘grace and favour’ residence at Belvedere Palace. ‘Coffee & Sachertorte’ at the prestigious Hotel Sacher is included.

As the Empire neared its end, Austria itself experienced an artistic surge in the 19th and early 20th century, in particular with the Jugendstil or Art Nouveau movement which was particularly notable for the architecture of Otto Wagner and the paintings of Gustav Klimt. Our specialist guide introduces the palaces, collections and history of Vienna with time to enjoy its music and culinary delights.

VJV Special Event - Viennese Performances

At the baroque Spanish Riding School, dressage performed to music by Lippizaner horses (standing places). A Strauss & Mozart concert with opera singers and ballet soloists at the Kursalon, where the Strauss brothers celebrated their greatest triumphs.