When traveling in Vienna, classical music surrounds you everywhere, but at the House of Music, you get to step directly inside the world of sound itself. Housed within the historic palace where the Vienna Philharmonic was founded, this innovative interactive museum brings auditory science and grand musical compositions to life for visitors of every generation. As you walk up the giant musical staircase where each step plays a distinct piano note, you are invited to experiment, play, and listen in completely new ways. Inside, you can roll electronic dice to compose your very own custom waltz, learn about human hearing, and explore dedicated rooms honoring musical icons like Mozart, Beethoven, Strauss, and Schubert. The undisputed highlight for both children and adults is the Virtual Conductor interactive exhibit. Here, you step up onto the podium, grab a digital baton, and attempt to lead the renowned Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra yourself. Be careful with your rhythm, because if you miss the tempo, the digital musicians will stop playing and offer a funny critique. Designed to inspire playful curiosity, this unique museum offers an unforgettable experience bridging traditional Austrian history with modern interactive fun.
What to see at House of Music
- Interactive Virtual Conductor orchestra exhibit
- Musical staircase that plays piano notes as you walk
- Waltz-dice game to compose your own music
- Dedicated rooms celebrating Vienna's legendary classical composers
Visiting tips
Buy tickets online in advance to skip line queues, and allow extra time for kids to test every hands-on installation.
How long: 2-3 hours · Best time: Late afternoon
How to get there & what’s nearby
House of Music is easy to reach on Vienna’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Schönbrunn Palace and St. Stephen's Cathedral. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Vienna travel guide.
See the full Vienna travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.