Kursalon Hübner: A Viennese Waltz Through History
Experience Vienna's rich musical heritage at the Kursalon Hübner, a stunning Renaissance venue hosting classical concerts and elegant events.
The Kursalon Hübner, located on Johannesgasse 33 in Vienna's Innere Stadt, is an architectural gem that embodies the city's rich musical and social history. Constructed between 1865 and 1867 by Johann Garben, it was originally intended as a place for visitors to enjoy curative mineral waters. However, it soon transformed into a vibrant center for entertainment and social gatherings. Located adjacent to the Stadtpark, one of Vienna's largest and most beautiful city parks, the Kursalon's design reflects the elegance of the Italian Renaissance. The building boasts four magnificent ballrooms spread across two floors, each with its own unique charm. These ballrooms and the expansive terrace overlooking the Stadtpark provide an exquisite setting for various events, from classical concerts to gala dinners. The Kursalon's transformation into a musical hotspot began in 1868 when Johann Strauss, the "Waltz King," performed his first concert there. Strauss's performances quickly gained popularity, drawing crowds and establishing the venue as a premier destination for entertainment. The waltz became synonymous with the Kursalon, solidifying its place in Viennese culture. Throughout the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the Kursalon thrived as a center for Viennese society, hosting countless concerts, balls, and social events. In 1908, Hans Hübner leased the Kursalon, adding his name to the venue. Even after suffering damages during World War II, the Kursalon was meticulously restored and reopened in 1949. Today, the Kursalon hosts approximately 500 classical concerts each year, attracting over 200,000 visitors from around the globe. In 2027, Lindt & Sprüngli Austria will add exhibitions and events about chocolate, along with a café and Lindt shop.
Local tips
- Book concert tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to secure the best seats.
- Arrive early to explore the beautiful Stadtpark surrounding the venue and discover monuments dedicated to famous composers.
- Dress smartly for the concerts, as the venue has a refined atmosphere that encourages elegant attire.
- Check the event schedule online to find special performances or themed concerts that might interest you.
- Combine your visit with dinner at the Kursalon Cafe Restaurant to savor Viennese delicacies in an elegant setting.
A brief summary to Kursalon Hübner
- Johannesgasse 33, Vienna, Innere Stadt, 1010, AT
- +4315125790
- Visit website
- Monday 9 am-9 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-9 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-9 pm
- Thursday 9 am-9 pm
- Friday 9 am-9 pm
- Saturday 11 am-9 pm
- Sunday 11 am-9 pm
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Stephansplatz, take the U3 subway line to Stubentor. From there, it's a short walk along Weihburggasse, following signs for the Stadtpark. The Kursalon will be visible on your left as you enter the park. A single ride on the Vienna public transport system costs €2.40.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
From the city center (e.g., Stephansplatz), a taxi or ride-sharing service to Johannesgasse 33 will typically cost between €6-€8, depending on traffic. The journey usually takes around 5-10 minutes.
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Walking
From the Vienna State Opera, walk along Kärntner Straße towards the Ring. Turn right onto the Ring and then left onto Johannesgasse. Continue straight, and you'll find the Kursalon on your left, next to the Stadtpark entrance. The walk is approximately 15 minutes.
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Driving
Driving directly to the Kursalon is not recommended due to limited parking in the immediate vicinity. Short-term parking in the Innere Stadt (1st district) costs €1.05 per 30 minutes, with a maximum stay of 2 hours. Consider using a Park & Ride facility on the outskirts of the city (€4.40 per day) and taking public transport to the Kursalon. Alternatively, several parking garages are nearby, such as Kärntnerstraße Tiefgarage, with hourly rates starting at €4.50.
