
The Kursalon, designed in the style of the Italian Renaissance by Johann Garden, was built in 1867 as a recreation resort. It is located directly on the historic Ringstrasse and amidst Stadtpark, Vienna’s city park. After completion, it soon became famous in the high society of Vienna, known especially for the cult of the waltz and joie de vivre. Johann Strauss would perform with his orchestra here in the 19th Century. Presently, it is made up of four ballrooms on two floors, a large terrace, and a restaurant.
About Kursalon
- The Kursalon Hübner comprises four ballrooms across two floors, a 1,000 sq m large terrace, and a restaurant.
- The Kursalon hosts approximately over 500 concerts per year and receives over 200,000 visitors annually.
- Among the roughly 600 seats, you can choose between front, middle, rear or VIP seats while you book, but your exact seat number will be determined on a first-come-first-serve basis.
In the 1850s, the fortifications around the city of Vienna were broken down on orders of Emperor Franz Josef I. The Ringstraße, a circular historical district in Vienna, was being built, with the State Opera House as the first building to be constructed on the stretch of land. In 1867, on the same Ring Road, the Kursalon was built. The purpose of the Kursalon in those days was for citizens to be able to get healing mineral water to drink, as a form of recreation. Social events were strictly prohibited. However, in just a year, this rule was overturned, with the first musical concert being performed by Johann Strauss. A few years later the Kursalon was rented by Hans Hübner, whose family later bought the property, thus giving it its official name Kursalon Hübner.
- The Kursalon was designed by Johann Garben.
- Most buildings during that time were built following a historic theme, mirroring architecture from the past. The architectural style chosen for the Kursalon was that of the Italian Renaissance.
- The concert hall has four ballrooms spread out over two floors, a terrace and a restaurant.
The Kursalon is home to the Alt Wien orchestra. The venue also hosts recurring Mozart, Strauss, Mozart, Beethoven and Schubert concerts. In summer, open-air concerts are held on the terrace. It is also known for its waltz activities, including the annual Viennese Johann Strauss Ball. The Ball Calendar is another annual event taking place at the venue, as is December’s famous Christmas Gala.
Know Before You Go
- Bus: Bus numbers 14A, 4A, 59A, 5B, N25, and VAL 2 drop you off near the Kursalon. You can also check out the Vienna Hop On Hop Off buses. WC: 28
- Tram: The nearest tram station to the hall is Weihburggasse station. The tram line 2 will drop you here, from where you can see the Kursalon diagonally opposite.
- Subway: The nearest subway station to the hall is Stadtpark station. Hop onto the subway line U4 which serves this station.
- Recommended Mode of Transport: The hall is centrally located and easily accessible by public transport. The subway is the easiest mode of transport, as the Kursalon building is quite close to Stadtpark station.
- Parking: Few parking spots are available opposite the Kursalon. The nearest car parking garage is the Busparkplatz Kursalon.
- Barrier-free Entrance: The concert hall has barrier-free entry into the building.
- Accessible Toilets: Accessible toilets are available for those with special needs.
- Elevator: There is elevator access to the building.
- Reduced Mobility Seating: The Kursalon offers seating for those with reduced mobility.
- Air Conditioning: Cloaks are not usually permitted in the seats. It is advisable to carry a light shawl as the room is air-conditioned.
- Book Online Tickets: The hall is one of the main venues for concerts and can get sold out quickly. Do book your tickets online in advance.
- Dress Recommendation: While there is no official dress code for the hall, visitors generally dress in smart casuals or semi-formals for a performance.
- Cloakroom: Cloakrooms and snack bars are present in the building.
- Age Recommendation: The hall has no age limits, however, it is advisable to bring children aged four years and older.
- Admission: Admissions into the building start 30 minutes before the show.
- Recording Policy: Photography is prohibited during the performance. You can click pictures and videos of the stage during the intermission.
- Combo Tickets: For a well-rounded experience, you can purchase tickets that offer dinner and concert performance combo.
- Biergart'l im Stadtpark: This Austrian restaurant is perfect for a quick bite and refreshment during a park stroll. It is known for its outdoor covered seating.
- Directions to Biergart'l im Stadtpark
- Pauli Restaurant Brasserie Bar: Known for its prix fixe menu, you can choose from a 3-course or 4-course menu. The restaurant's wine bar is also known for its great collection.
- Directions to Pauli Restaurant Brasserie Bar
- Elissar: This Lebanese restaurant is known for its preparation of seafood, meats and shisha.
- Directions to Elissar
- Pizzeria Trattoria Salieri: Hop in for a classic pizza with authentic Italian flavours.
- Directions to Pizzeria Trattoria Salieri
- Restaurant Meissl & Schadn Wien: The upscale Austrian restaurant is known for its open salon kitchen and wine bar.
- Directions to Restaurant Meissl & Schadn Wien
Frequently Asked Questions About Kursalon
Currently, Kursalon is regularly hosting Mozart and Strauss concerts, brought to the audience by the Salonorchester Alt Wien.
The Kursalon is located in Johannesgasse 33, 1010 Wien, Austria.
The venue has a barrier-free entrance, accessible toilets, lifts and accessible seating for guests with reduced mobility.
There are a bunch of restaurants near Kursalon. Biergart'l im Stadtpark, Elissar, Pizzeria Trattoria Salieri, among others, are very popular.
You can easily book tickets for Kursalon concerts online. This is a hassle-free and safe way, ensuring that you have all the information you need before getting your tickets.