Walk in the footsteps of European nobles in Eisenstadt. The city is a gateway to the enchanting Burgenland region, which produces some of the best wines in Austria. Explore a Baroque palace with more than 200 rooms and visit a museum dedicated to celebrated composer, Joseph Haydn.
Things to do in Eisenstadt
Schloss Esterházy towers over the main square and recalls the city’s illustrious past. The Baroque castle is one of the most beautiful in Austria and dates back to the 14th century. Join a guided tour to visit some of the 200+ rooms, including the magnificent Haydn Hall, which is decorated with colourful frescoes. You can find out more about the famous Austrian composer in the Haydn exhibition. It occupies its own wing of the castle and celebrates his life, legacy and music.
The parkland behind Schloss Esterházy is reimagined as a beautiful public space. It’s called Schlosspark Eisenstadt and features emerald-green lawns and duck-filled lakes. Winding paths take you through sun-dappled woodlands and past bubbling fountains. Peer into the light-filled orangery and admire the pastel-coloured Leopoldine Temple built in the early 1800s.
Enjoy sweeping views from the ramparts of Burg Forchtenstein. The centuries-old castle is perched on a rocky outcrop just outside of Eisenstadt. See gleaming armour, swords and portraits of Hungarian nobles in the castle museum.
Dine at local restaurants and enjoy traditional cuisine from the Burgenland region. Try specialties like “krautstrudel” cabbage-filled savoury pastries and “kurbis suppe” pumpkin soup. Complement your meal with a glass of Blaufränkisch from the famous Eisenberg DAC winemaking region. Local bakeries will tempt you with slices of “nuss schnitten” cake topped with snow-white meringue.
Getting around Eisenstadt
Eisenstadt is pedestrian-friendly and easy to get around on foot. The city is in Burgenland, a 45-minute drive from Vienna and one hour by train. Taxis are a fast and affordable way to get around the city. Vienna International Airport is a 45-minute drive away.