Both properties—the Hotel Austria and the Lehárvilla—were reopened in 2024, the year Vienna was designated European Capital of Culture, following extensive renovation and restoration. They now shine in new splendor: The Hotel Austria offers a glimpse into the city’s history, while the Lehárvilla provides an opportunity to immerse oneself in the summer retreats of days gone by—in an authentically preserved villa. Through its financial support, the REGIS funding project enabled contemporary educational programming as well as the publication of exhibition catalogs.
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.
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.
Every month we present a new object of the month in a video - you can find the previous objects here
Mon, Wed–Sun, 10:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
(Closed Tuesdays)
Guided tours of the Hotel Austria are held every Mon, Wed–Fri at 2:00 p.m.
We will also be open until 3:00 p.m. on December 24 and December 31.
The museum will be closed on December 8, December 25, December 26, and January 1.
TU - SO 10.00 - 17.00 (April - October)
DO - FR 10.00 - 17.00 (November - March)
Visits are only possible with a guide. Maximum group size: 15 people.
Tours outside of regular opening hours are available for groups upon request.
The Lehárvilla will be closed on December 8, December 24, December 25, December 26, December 31, and January 1.
Visits outside opening hours are possible in both houses for groups of 10 people or more.
