Haus Der Musik

Haus der Musik Vienna: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Sites Guide

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

Located in Vienna’s historic city center, the Haus der Musik is a renowned sound museum that celebrates the city’s extraordinary musical heritage. Housed within the architecturally significant Palais Erzherzog Carl, the museum offers an immersive journey through Vienna’s centuries-old association with music, sound, and acoustics. Visitors can expect a blend of historical reverence and contemporary interactivity, with exhibits ranging from the history of the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra to hands-on installations like the Virtual Conductor. With extended daily opening hours, a variety of ticket options, and a convenient central location near major attractions such as St. Stephen’s Cathedral and the Mozarthaus Vienna, Haus der Musik is an essential stop for music lovers, families, and cultural explorers. For official details on visiting, ticketing, and special programs, refer to the Haus der Musik official site or trusted travel guides like Visiting Vienna.

Statue of Otto Nicolai at Haus der Musik in Vienna

Leonard Bernstein's black tailcoat displayed at Haus der Musik in Vienna

Haus der Musik in Vienna with autograph of Pfitzner's opera Palestrina

Haus der Musik in Vienna with Franz Schubert's glasses on display

Arnold Schoenberg twelve-tone composition for opera Moses and Aron displayed at House of Music Vienna

Conductor batons of famous conductors of the Vienna Philharmonic at Haus der Musik, Vienna

Introduction
The History of Haus der Musik and Palais Erzherzog Carl
Vienna’s Musical Legacy: Otto Nicolai and the Vienna Philharmonic
Visitor Essentials: Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility
Exhibition Highlights and Interactive Experiences
Getting There and Nearby Attractions
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Conclusion and Further Resources

The History of Haus der Musik and Palais Erzherzog Carl

The Haus der Musik occupies the former Palais Erzherzog Carl, a building with roots stretching back to the 16th century. Originally serving as the imperial foundry, the palace was granted to Heinrich Nickhard by Emperor Rudolf II in 1603. Over time, it evolved into the seat of the Versatz- und Fragamt—a precursor to the famed Dorotheum auction house.

Between 1720 and 1730, the palace underwent a Baroque transformation influenced by the school of Johann Lucas von Hildebrandt. The ornate façade and balconies, particularly the additions from 1872, remain defining features. The building later belonged to prominent banker Georg Simon Freiherr von Sina. Its musical significance was cemented in the 19th century when composer Otto Nicolai resided here and founded the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra.

Vienna’s Musical Legacy: Otto Nicolai and the Vienna Philharmonic

Otto Nicolai’s time at Palais Erzherzog Carl (1841–1847) was pivotal—here, he established the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra, which debuted in 1842 at the Hofburg’s Redoutensaal. Today, the museum preserves this legacy on its first floor, displaying original 19th-century furnishings, a Renaissance fireplace in the Otto Nicolai memorial room, the first concert poster from 1842, and batons from legendary conductors like Herbert von Karajan.

Visitor Essentials: Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility

Opening Hours

Daily: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Last admission: 9:00 PM

Ticket Prices (as of July 2025)

Adults: €15–€17 (varies by source)
Students/Seniors: €12–€13
Youth (12–17): €13
Children up to 11: €7; under 6: Free
Family and group rates available
Combined tickets with Mozarthaus Vienna
Vienna Pass holders: Free entry

Tip: Purchase tickets online via the Haus der Musik official site for convenience, especially during busy periods.

Accessibility

The museum is fully accessible, with elevators, ramps, and accessible restrooms throughout. Audio guides are available in multiple languages, and staff are trained to assist visitors with special needs.

Exhibition Highlights and Interactive Experiences

Haus der Musik spans four floors, each offering distinct attractions:

First Floor: Museum of the Vienna Philharmonic

Original artifacts, concert posters, and memorabilia from the orchestra’s storied history
Multimedia installations and historical recreations

Second Floor: Sonotopia

Interactive sound experiments and oversized musical instruments
“Sonosphere” exhibits exploring the physics and perception of sound

Third Floor: Composers’ Rooms

Dedicated spaces for Vienna’s great composers: Mozart, Beethoven, Haydn, Schubert, Strauss, Mahler, and members of the Second Viennese School
Original manuscripts, period instruments, and multimedia biographies

Fourth Floor: Virtual Conductor and Brain Opera

Step onto the podium to virtually conduct the Vienna Philharmonic, with real-time feedback based on your tempo and motion (Haus der Musik Official)
The Brain Opera: Create music using gesture-based interfaces and collaborative installations, blending technology and creativity (Haus der Musik Official)

Sound Gallery and Temporary Exhibitions

Rotating exhibits by contemporary sound artists
Immersive installations and workshops

Family and Children’s Activities

Mini Musicians’ World: Interactive sound games, instrument exploration, and storytelling for young visitors (Haus der Musik Official)
Musical Stairs: Each step produces a note, turning movement into music

Getting There and Nearby Attractions

Location

Address: Seilerstätte 30, 1010 Vienna

Public Transport

U-Bahn: Stephansplatz (U1, U3), Herrengasse (U3), Karlsplatz (U1, U2, U4)
Tram: Lines 1, 2, D, J (to Oper)
Bus: Multiple routes serve the area

Nearby Vienna Historical Sites

St. Stephen’s Cathedral
Mozarthaus Vienna
Vienna State Opera
Hofburg Palace

All are within easy walking distance, ideal for a cultural day out in the city center (Visiting Vienna).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are Haus der Musik’s opening hours?
A: Daily from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM; last entry at 9:00 PM.

Q: How much are tickets and where can I buy them?
A: Adults: €15–€17; discounts for students, seniors, and children; online purchase via Haus der Musik official site is recommended.

Q: Is the museum suitable for children?
A: Yes. Interactive exhibits and dedicated children’s areas make it ideal for families.

Q: Is Haus der Musik wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, with elevator access and accessible facilities on all floors.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, both for individuals and groups; advance booking is advised.

Q: Can I combine my ticket with other attractions?
A: Combined tickets with Mozarthaus Vienna are available.

Q: Is photography allowed?
A: Non-flash photography is generally permitted for personal use; check on-site for restrictions.

Conclusion and Further Resources

Haus der Musik stands as a vibrant symbol of Vienna’s musical legacy, merging history with hands-on innovation. Whether you are a lifelong music enthusiast, a family with children, or a curious traveler, the museum offers an enriching experience through its diverse exhibits, accessible facilities, and prime location amid Vienna’s cultural hotspots. Plan your visit by purchasing tickets online and consult the museum’s official channels for updates on exhibitions and events. For audio guides and curated itineraries, consider downloading the Audiala app.