Top 5 Movies Set in Vienna

It's no secret that Vienna, the grand capital of Austria, has been a major inspiration for filmmakers worldwide. The city's magnificent architecture, deep-rooted history, and lively culture have consistently served as the perfect setting for numerous films.

As summer ends and we start planning our Salute to Vienna New Year’s Concert across North America, let’s take a look at 5 iconic movies set in Vienna. We have no doubt that these films will transport you to this enchanting city and get you in the mood for an unforgettable New Year's celebration.

5. The Third Man (1949)

The Third Man is a classic film from 1949 directed by Carol Reed and written by Graham Greene. The story is set in post-World War II Vienna and follows an American writer named Holly Martins (Joseph Cotton) as he investigates the mysterious death of his friend Harry Lime (Orson Welles).

The film features a stunning soundtrack and gorgeous black-and-white cinematography, perfectly capturing the atmosphere of a divided city and the moral ambiguity of its characters. It's an iconic Vienna-set film known most notably for its inclusion of Vienna’s famous Ferris Wheel!

4. Before Sunrise (1995)

In second place on our list is the 1995 romantic drama Before Sunrise. The movie follows two young travellers, Jesse (Ethan Hawke) and Céline (Julie Delpy), who meet on a train and end up spending a magical night together exploring Vienna. As Jesse and Céline witness the charm of Vienna as they wander the city, the audience can’t help but wonder what it would be like to experience a romantic night in such an enchanting city!

3. The Piano Teacher (2001)

A psychological drama set in modern-day Vienna, The Piano Teacher revolves around the complex and controversial relationship between a piano professor (Isabelle Huppert) and her young student (Benoît Magimel). Directed by Michael Haneke and based on the novel by Elfriede Jelinek, this thought-provoking film offers a glimpse into the city’s classical music scene, as well as its dark undercurrents that lie beneath its elegant surface.

Fun fact: our very own Salute to Vienna New Year’s Concert baritone, Thomas Weinhappel, is in the film!

2. Goodbye Mr. Chips (1939)

Goodbye, Mr. Chips is a classic British drama that tells the story of the beloved schoolteacher, Mr. Chipping (Robert Donat), and his life at an English boarding school. While the movie is set in England for the most part, it does include memorable scenes of Mr. Chipping and his wife on their honeymoon in Vienna, capturing the city’s romantic charm. With a romantic touch of Vienna, this film captures Salute to Vienna New Year’s Concert feeling of love and nostalgia!

Honorary Mention: Amadeus (1984)

Miloš Forman's cult classic Amadeus receives an honorary mention in our list. Interestingly enough, the movie is a fictionalized account of the life and death of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart (played by Tom Hulce), as seen through the eyes of his rival Antonio Salieri (played by F. Murray Abraham). While the film takes place in Vienna, it was actually shot on location in Prague due to the persevered architecture of the city.

Nevertheless, we include it in our list because of its Viennese representation, lavish costumes, stunning music, and memorable performances. It's a must-watch for anyone planning to attend a concert such as our beloved Salute to Vienna!

1. The Waltz King (1963)

Our list would not be complete without Walt Disney’s biographical musical that tells the story of Johann Strauss II! This classic captures the city’s golden age of music and dance, making it the perfect film to watch as you prepare count down the days to Salute to Vienna New Year’s Concert!

Vienna – a city with timeless beauty and rich cultural heritage.

We hope that our list of these iconic Vienna-set films get you excited for your own magical Viennese New Year's celebration at Salute to Vienna. We can’t wait to ring in the New Year with you in an unforgettable way.