Things to do in Vienna in May 2023

https://www.wiener-staatsoper.at/en/staatsoper/guided-tours/

Dmitri Shostakovich has masterfully transformed the harsh story written by Nikolai Leskov into an iconic opera, which had a triumphant success when it first premiered in 1934. Today, Lady Macbeth of Mtsensk is one of the best-known artistic performances on the stage of the Wiener Staatsoper – with ironic yet touching music, innovative and creative decorations, and impeccable soprano, Ausrine Stundyte. Ticket prices start at €14, so you won’t have to break the bank, if you decide to discover the world of opera in the magnificent settings of this elegant building, constructed and designed by August Sicard and Eduard van der Nüll in neo-Renaissance style in 1869.

The tragic story of Katerina Ismailowa will be performed on the 28th and 31st of May. If you are keen on learning more about the history and day-to-day operations of the Opera house, you might as well book a guided tour that will take you hinter die Kulissen (behind the scenes) of its famous Tea Salon, Gustav Mahler Hall, Marble Hall, and Schwindfoyer. The regular ticket price for the tour is €13. Get ready to explore the breathtaking world of artistic excellence, but first, take some time out for yourself at YOU – just a 5-minute walk from the Wiener Staatsoper.

Refrain from being puzzled by its name, the YOU restaurant is not related to the trending yet truly grim Netflix series about the charismatic, villainous protagonist, Joe Goldberg. At this popular establishment, located near the most scenic attractions of the city, you will be awed by its beautifully designed interiors – a tasteful blend of rich emerald-green cushy armchairs, creating a well-balanced combination with the earthy shades of the walls, subtly lit glowing bar counter, and round tables. You can also take in warm sunlight at the restaurant’s outdoor seating area with the backdrop of lush green trees and impressive Austrian Baroque architecture.

On the menu, you will find an artisan take on global cuisine, including dishes such as beef tartare with physalis and mustard caviar, creamy pumpkin soup, vegan coconut curry masala, cashew wok, or succulent Austrian tomahawk steak. If you have a sweet tooth, check out their mouthwatering dessert options: Raspberry Inspiration with ice cream and ganache or refreshing vegan Hugo with elderflower infusion. For the perfect ending to your meal, sip on a glass of the finest Guatemalan rum, Zacapa. Its sweet cherry and fig notes are best enjoyed straight up.

by Bea Borgers https://www.festwochen.at/skatepark

From the 12th of May till the 17th of June, you have an opportunity to witness the evolution of modern art on multiple platforms during Wiener Festwochen. This annual festival has been taking place since 1950, and nowadays, it reflects the diversity, multiformity, and creative unlimitedness of contemporary aesthetics.

On the 19th, 20th, and 21st of May, you will experience a total transformation of your dancing knowledge. In her new project called Skatepark, Danish choreographer Mette Ingvartsen chooses to get rid of the familiar square-cut stage. Instead, the dancing performance is placed in an urban setting of ramps and rails, utilized by ten skaters in their choreography, inspired by everyday street culture. During the Wiener Festwochen 2023, you can also attend other events, including various visual arts exhibitions, lectures, concerts, cabaret, guided tours, and many more.

You already know about the iconic Leopold Cafe in Mumbai. Now, let us introduce to you its namesake in the heart of Austria. Located at the MuseumsQuartier – the artistic hub of the city – this unmissable establishment boasts a stunning panorama through the gigantic glass facade, impeccable service, and palatable international cuisine with an Asian twist. Their spacious roof terrace is the best place in the city to celebrate a special moment with your friends and family, accompanied by ice-cold fizzy cocktails.

We recommend you stop by Cafe Leopold during the breakfast hours for a classic filling meal that consists of a glass of orange, apple, or mango juice, freshly baked crusty and fluffy bread, omelet, cheese and ham, fruit yogurt, croissant, and jam. If you are in the mood for Japanese fare, order their freshest sushi, uramaki, and poke bowls.

Photo https://www.gustav-klimt.com/Serpents.jsp#prettyPhoto[image1]/0/

The famous Austrian Symbolist painter, Gustav Klimt, is rightfully considered one of the greatest visionaries of the Vienna Art Nouveau period. His most recognized paintings were created using a mixed technique that included the application of gold leaf, and they are devoted to women’s eternal beauty. In the dazzling settings of Vienna’s Belvedere museum, you can learn more about the artists who influenced Klimt’s style, including the genius impressionists, Vincent Van Gogh, Auguste Rodin, and post-impressionist, Henri Matisse.

To collect more information about Klimt’s path, the museum’s team has been working together with Amsterdam’s Van Gogh Museum, and the results of this collaboration, presented at the Belvedere, are truly impressive: you get to see the artist’s divine Water Serpents II, as well as exhibits by van Gogh, Munch, Matisse, Whistler, Alma-Tadema, and many more. The artworks will remain at the Belvedere till the 29th of May.

Our next culinary suggestion – Art Corner Restaurant – guarantees you a spectacular view of Belvedere castle and scrumptious Greek cuisine. At first sight, this establishment might seem really simple – its interiors are traditional and minimalistic. But don’t be tricked by its unassuming air. The most welcoming team here creates a homey and pleasant atmosphere, and the delicious, generously portioned dishes served will leave you wanting more.

We suggest you savor their flavorful, filling goulash soup with Greek pita bread, dolmadakia, or gyros. Order a glass of Almdudler – an iconic sparkling Viennese lemonade infused with natural herbs. Its light, slightly tangy taste won’t overshadow your meal. Indulging in a slice of apple strudel at their spacious terrace ensures a delightful end to your dining experience at Art Corner.

https://www.genussregionen.at/de/betrieb/baeckerei-hirtenlehner

If you happen to come to Vienna between the 12th and 14th of May, take some time to drop by the Central Stadtpark to sample the best culinary delights from the Austrian province during the annual Genuss Festival – an enormous open-air expo featuring hundreds of various local high-quality products.

Here, you can try regional wines, schnapps, mead, and unusual delicacies, including bread, pastries, cured meats, bottled dressings, oils, honey, and herbs. Take a jar of organic jam as a sweet and unique souvenir from Austria back home. Your friends will love it! Get ready to indulge in the finest Austria-specific fare! The upcoming Genuss Festival 2023 is exclusively showcasing family-owned farm shops, producers, and eateries that prioritize high-quality local cuisine crafted with traditional skills.

The whole vibe at Loca restaurant is centered around casual fine dining. The team wants you to feel the most comfortable and relaxed while enjoying their 6-course menu with a glass of complex Austrian wine while basking in the ambiance of their tastefully decorated dichromatic black and white dining space. Thanks to its caring approach to its customers and exquisite dining experience, Loca has been added to the Michelin guide selection of the best restaurants. And the presentation of the dishes deserves a separate shout-out!

At this place, the menu changes based on product availability. Upon arrival, you should tell the staff about your dietary preferences, and your meal will be adjusted accordingly. Some of the gourmet options you can savor at Loca are Jerusalem artichoke soup with roasted duck, swordfish with spinach and pumpkin puree, veal shoulder with roasted veggies, and Thai-style stir fry with veggies, nuts, and shrimp. For the ultimate gastronomic feast, come over to this inviting restaurant.

Corina Rainer https://unsplash.com/photos/9FDI-_E29fk

Modern cinematography creatively finds the best ways to tell stories that make you want to empathize with the protagonists. Binge-watching the latest season of your favorite series over one night and relating to the problems shown on screen would never be the same without the French New Wave in the late 1950s and its innovators, Jean-Luc Godard, Éric Rohmer, Jacques Rivette, and Claude Chabrol. They refused to follow traditional rules of filmmaking, experimenting with new approaches to camerawork, editing, narration, and visual style.

Visit Festival du Film Francophone 2023 (FFF) and dive into the world of French cinema that is held annually at VOTIV Cinema and Kino de France. And if you are a fan of documentary filmmaking, you can attend the largest festival in Austria dedicated exclusively to documentary and ethnographic film, ETHNOCINECA, that takes place in May, after the FFF. You will see 50 recent feature-length and short films. During these events, there will be a rich additional program, including lectures, opening and award ceremonies, and parties creating welcoming environment of communication and creativity.

Our final suggestion is one of the most charming restaurants in the scenic Austrian capital – das Kolin. With its attention to tiny details, such as rose dust and light gray color palette with the well-placed green accents of in-house plants, beautifully plated food, and wonderfully garnished artisan cocktails, this establishment is worth your visit.

Serving international cuisine, the kitchen can cater to any taste. Try their flavorsome grilled octopus with creamy polenta, generous portion of tomato pasta topped with basil and burrata cheese, or artisan beef burger with a side of fries. Be sure to check out Kolin's impressive selection of drinks to enhance your dining experience. Our recommendation on a warm sunny day would be a glass of fruity raspberry mojito or a zesty everyone’s darling, gin fizz.

With all the gorgeous castles, beautiful parks, captivating museums, and entertaining art and music festivals, featuring the most talented performers, your vacation in Vienna is guaranteed to be fabulous and memorable. And for other interesting places to see in this city or for more travel destination ideas, check out our latest articles.

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