Kursalon Wien, a historic Renaissance-style concert hall, sits at the edge of Stadtpark in Vienna. The former spa retreat has turned into a dreamy venue for Strauss and Mozart concerts, galas, and dinners. From 2027, premium chocolate empire Lindt & Sprüngli will add exhibitions and events about chocolate, as well as a café and Lindt shop. At present, while locals, let alone music critics,rarely attend Kursalon concerts, what can tourists expect?
Kursalon Wien: Concerts, Dinners, History and Venue
When Vienna's grand city fortifications were torn down in the mid-19th century, a vast expanse of prime real estate opened up around the old town. One of the landmark buildings to rise from this transformation was the Kursalon, which opened its doors in 1867.
The Transformation of Hübner Kursalon Wien
At its inception, the Kursalon Wien served as a spa retreat, offering visitors the chance to partake in therapeutic waters, visit a coffeehouse, or dine in its elegant restaurant. However, it quickly became more than just a health resort. The Kursalon transformed into a hub of entertainment, particularly for music lovers. In fact, the building’s association with classical music dates back to its very first concert. The Kursalon is named after Heinrich Hübner, who acquired the building's concession in 1867 and transformed it into a popular entertainment venue featuring concerts and balls.
On October 15, 1868, none other than Johann Strauss II, the King of Waltz himself, conducted his first performance there. The audience was so captivated that they demanded an encore of his new polka, prompting Strauss to lead the piece three times.
Some 160 years after Mr Hübner transformed Kursalon into a concert hall, chocolate company Lindt & Sprüngli Austria wants to share their passion for chocolate with local and international visitors. As part of a careful renovation Kursalon will be refreshed and opened towards the city park.
A Venue for Classical Music, And Soon Chocolate
With its magnificent rooms, four grand halls, and a 1000 m² terrace overlooking the Stadtpark, it’s an exceptional location for events of all kinds.
While the Kursalon is historically tied to classical music, its current offerings focus primarily on tourist-oriented concerts. They are not designed for discerning classical music lovers seeking profound artistic depth or cutting-edge interpretations. Instead, they cater to ‘eternal romantics’ who appreciate an entertainment-focused performance.
With its grand interiors and expansive terrace, Kursalon sells a stereotypical Viennese atmosphere. Instead of whole musical works like symphonies the concert programmes focus on entertaining highlights, providing a lighter approach to classical music that appeals to tourists who may be less familiar with the genre.
Focusing on the most popular works of Strauss and Mozart, Kursalon events delight tourists looking for a lighthearted, quintessentially Viennese musical experience rather than a purist’s concert. Many performances are offered as part of travel agency packages, often including dinner and other amenities.
Architecturally, the Kursalon’s legacy lives on in popular culture, such as the second season of Vienna Blood, where the grand interiors are featured. Here is quick list to its happening events:
1. Strauss and Mozart Concerts
The Strauss and Mozart Concerts offer an evening of Viennese
classic performed by the Salonorchester Alt Wien, accompanied
by opera singers and ballet dancers. Expect a popular selection
of Strauss' waltzes and Mozart's operatic arias, all performed
in the elegant surroundings of this historic venue.
Venue: Kursalon Vienna, Stadtpark
Date: various
Time: 20:30
Tickets: Order Here
2. Kaiserwalzer Dinner and Concert
The Kaiserwalzer Dinner and Concert combines a gourmet dinner
with a live concert featuring iconic works by Strauss and Mozart.
This luxurious event is held in the grand setting of Kursalon
Vienna, where you can enjoy delicious cuisine while being
serenaded by Vienna's finest musicians. It’s a wonderful
way to experience Viennese culture and hospitality.
Date: December 27 – 29, 2025
Time: 18:00
Tickets: Order Here
3. Dinner and Concert
For a delightful night out, the Dinner and Concert at the Kursalon
Vienna offers a combination of exquisite dining and a classical concert.
Enjoy a memorable evening featuring the music of Strauss and Mozart
in a beautiful historic venue, perfect for anyone seeking a
lighthearted enjoyable experience.
Venue: Kursalon Vienna, Stadtpark
Date: December 29, 2025
Time: 18:00
Tickets: Order Here.
4. New Year’s Eve Concert with
If you're looking to ring in the New Year with a mix of international
visitors, the New Year’s Eve Concert with Fireworks and Afterparty is the
perfect choice. Located by the picturesque Vienna City Park (Stadtpark),
the evening offers a unique blend of elegance and entertainment. Experience
a stunning classical concert featuring the timeless works of Johann Strauss
and Mozart, performed in the magnificent concert hall of the Kursalon,
a venue steeped in Vienna's musical heritage.
As the clock strikes midnight, prepare to be dazzled by a spectacular fireworks
display over Vienna City Park, lighting up the night sky in celebration.
Afterward,head to the bar for a lively afterparty with dance music, where you
can continue the festivities and dance your way into the new year.
Venue: Kursalon Vienna, Stadtpark
Date: December 31, 2025
Time:
10:00 pm - Concert by Chamber Orchestra "Alt Wien"
11.45pm - Sparkling wine at the Terrace
12pm - Midnight Fireworks
from 12 pm - New Years Eve Party
Tickets: Order Here
5. New Year’s Day Gala at Kursalon Vienna
Start the New Year on a high with the New Year’s Day Gala at Kursalon Vienna, where you’ll be treated to an elegant evening of Holiday classical Viennese music. Experience the best of Strauss and Mozart, performed by the Salonorchester Alt-Wien, in the splendid Renaissance-style concert hall that was once a favourite of Vienna's elite. This special gala includes a delicious 4-course dinner, and for those seeking a more luxurious experience, VIP tickets offer prime seating and additional perks. It’s a glamorous and unforgettable way to begin the year in the heart of Vienna. Venue: Kursalon Vienna, Stadtpark
Date: January 1, 2026
Time:
18:00 Gala dinner
20:30 New Year's concert
Tickets: Order Here.
Other Local Concerts
Vienna offers a variety of exceptional classical concerts throughout the year. Highlights include the Vienna Philharmonic New Year's Concert at the Musikverein, the Magic Trumpet at St. Anne's Church, and the Christmas in Vienna Gala featuring the Vienna Boys Choir. The Vienna Boys Choir Advent Concerts at the Hofburg Chapel also provide a festive, unforgettable experience. For a more intimate setting, the Classic Ensemble Vienna at St. Peter's Church delivers a personal, high-quality performance. Whether you're visiting for a New Year’s celebration or looking for a unique musical experience, Vienna’s classical music scene is sure to captivate you. Check out the full yearly calendar here.
To secure a quality music experience, it’s essential to start your research early, as the best concerts often sell out months in advance. Once you’ve booked your flight and hotel, consider securing your concert tickets right away. Opt for respected musicians and orchestras such as the Vienna Philharmonic, Vienna Symphonic Orchestra, or the ORF Radio SymphonieOrchester for a truly memorable experience. Moreover, pay attention to the acoustics and venue too; concert halls are meticulously designed for optimal sound, while churches offer a distinct, immersive acoustic environment suited for sacred music. For more details, check out my tips on How To Secure Quality A Quality Music Experience In Vienna.
A Building with a Rich Architectural History
The Kursalon Wien was designed by architect Johann Garben in the
style of the Italian Renaissance, a popular approach during the period.
Its stunning architecture immediately caught the public’s eye, with one
periodical describing it as “one of the most beautiful buildings of the
new, enlarged Vienna.” The combination of grandeur and elegance set
the stage for its later role as a prestigious event venue.
The venue's origins trace back to 1857 when Emperor Franz Josef I ordered the demolition of Vienna's city fortifications, making way for the Ring Boulevard and the creation of the City Park in 1862. Initially, the Kursalon was a place where visitors could drink mineral waters, with
no social events allowed. However, in 1868, it hosted its first concert by Johann Strauss, marking the beginning of its evolution into a cultural hub for concerts and social gatherings. In 1908, the venue was rented by Hans Hübner, and it later inherited the name Kursalon Hübner after the family took ownership in the late 1990s.
Today, the Kursalon boasts four ballrooms, a 1,000-square-meter terrace, and a restaurant, hosting over 500 concerts annually, with a repertoire including works by Strauss, Mozart, Beethoven, and Schubert. You can enjoy performances by the Salonorchester Alt Wien, opera singers, and ballet dancers. While the Kursalon is not a traditional concert hall like the Musikverein or Konzerthaus, its historical atmosphere offers a unique, light-hearted introduction to Viennese classical music.
Nearby Landmarks
One of the highlights of any visit to the Kursalon is its proximity
to one of Vienna's most famous landmarks – the Johann Strauss
Monument in Stadtpark. After enjoying a concert at the Kursalon,
you can step outside and take a photo with the statue, perhaps
even posing with Strauss himself for the perfect Vienna selfie.
And if you're in the mood for more musical history, you can
explore the nearby monuments dedicated to other composers, such
as Franz Lehár, Anton Bruckner, and Franz Schubert, each
commemorated in the lush surroundings of Stadtpark.
How to Get to the Kursalon
The Kursalon Wien is located in the mid of Vienna, making it easily accessible by public transport:
-
- Subway: The Stadtpark station on the U4 line is right next to the Kursalon.
- Tram: You can also take tram line 2 to Weihburggasse, where the Kursalon is just across the park.
Address: Johannesgasse 33, 1010 Vienna