Welcome to the

Museums of the town of Bad Ischl

Both museums, the Hotel Austria and the Lehárvilla, were reopened in the Capital of Culture year 2024 after extensive renovation and restoration. They shine in new splendor: the Hotel Austria provides insights into the history of the city, while the Lehárvilla offers the opportunity to immerse yourself in the summer resort of long ago - in an authentically preserved villa.

The museum, located on the Esplanade, used to be a well-known hotel - the Austria - and this is where our story begins. We immerse ourselves in the world of the summer resort, the beginnings of the spa, railroad nostalgia and embark together on a journey through the historic Salzkammergut and Ischl. We meet illustrious guests at the hotel bar and meet their famous hosts. But what lies behind the beautiful appearance of operetta sounds, soirees and waltzing bliss? The newly designed exhibition sheds light on this and does not leave out the dark chapters of history.

Hotel Austria

In 1912, the world-famous operetta composer Franz Lehár bought the villa on the Traun. Numerous personalities, artists, librettists and publishers came and went here. He remained loyal to Ischl for 46 years, composing and completing masterpieces. Franz Lehár bequeathed the villa to the municipality of Bad Ischl on the condition that it be preserved unchanged and made accessible. After thorough renovation and extensive restoration, it is now open to visitors again. When you enter the villa, you can feel the spirit of the summer resort of the late 19th and early 20th centuries and gain a comprehensive insight into Lehár's life in Ischl.

Leharvilla

Embark on a fascinating journey through Bad Ischl and the Salzkammergut - into the world of the summer resort, from Emperor Franz Joseph and Empress Elisabeth to the private life and work of Franz Lehár and many other exciting topics.