The district of Hietzing is home to one of the most impressive Baroque orangery buildings in Europe, which not only has a fascinating history, but is also considered an important concert and event venue in Vienna: the Orangery of Schönbrunn Palace. With its impressive architecture from the time of Maria Theresa, it is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site Schönbrunn Palace and one of the city’s most important cultural landmarks. Today, the historic hall, surrounded by the extensive palace gardens, combines an imperial ambience, excellent acoustics, and a varied program of events.
Between high arched windows and baroque elegance, the popular candlelight concerts in the Schönbrunn Orangery also create a very special atmosphere. Surrounded by the splendor of the former Habsburg summer residence, you can enjoy classical tributes to various artists such as Coldplay, Imagine Dragons, Queen, and more.
Baroque roots: The history of the Schönbrunn Orangery
The Schönbrunn Orangery was built in the mid-18th century on behalf of Empress Maria Theresa and Emperor Franz I Stephan to present the Habsburgs’ growing collection of exotic citrus plants in a manner befitting their status. At 189 meters long, it is the second largest Baroque orangery in Europe after Versailles and, in addition to providing a place for precious plants to overwinter, also served as a magnificent setting for courtly celebrations and musical events. After periods of decline in the 19th century, it was extensively revitalized in the 20th century and divided into a modern event hall and an area for plant cultivation in the palace park—part of Vienna’s “green treasure trove .”
Events in the Schönbrunn Orangery
Today, the Orangery is a lively stage for concerts featuring works by Mozart and Strauss, performed by a top-class orchestra in a historic setting. Combined experiences are also offered regularly, combining dinner in selected restaurants with a classical concert in the Orangery. In addition, seasonal highlights such as the Vienna Citrus Days, special exhibitions on orangery culture, exclusive gala dinners, corporate events, and festive private celebrations await you, transforming the baroque hall into a stage for unforgettable events. Sparkling candlelight concerts complement this varied program and add modern accents to the historic setting.
Location and directions to the Schönbrunn Orangery
The Orangery is located directly opposite Schönbrunn Palace on Schönbrunner Schloßstraße in the 13th district of Hietzing, nestled in the palace park. The easiest way to get there is by subway line U4 ( Schönbrunn or Hietzing station) or by tram lines 10 and 60 and bus line 10A, from which it is only a short walk to the Orangery.
What makes the Orangery so special?
The combination of its impressive length of 189 meters, its Baroque architecture, and its history as part of Schönbrunn Palace, which formerly served as the summer residence of the Habsburgs, makes the location unique. At the same time, the modernized event hall offers excellent acoustics and flexible usage options—from classical music to elegant banquets.
Can you visit the Orangery and the Orangery Garden during the day?
Yes, as part of a visit to the palace park and special guided tours, you can explore the Orangery and Orangery Garden, where exotic citrus plants and other rarities are cultivated. Especially during the Vienna Citrus Days and thematic exhibitions on orangery culture, the area also opens as an informative showroom for those interested in gardening and culture.
Photo: G.Garitan | CC BY-SA 4.0
Vienna venues nearby
There are numerous other cultural highlights around Schönbrunn Palace that are the perfect complement to a concert visit. Right on the doorstep, the palace itself invites you to explore its state rooms, baroque palace park, Gloriette, and Crown Prince Garden. Within walking distance are Schönbrunn Zoo, the oldest zoo in the world, and the Vienna Technical Museum, both of which regularly offer special exhibitions and family programs. The U4 subway line also takes you quickly to the city center, where you can visit the State Opera, the MuseumsQuartier, or St. Charles’s Church. The candlelight concerts also take place in various other impressive locations in Vienna that are definitely worth a visit.