7 Unforgettable Films Set in Vienna (And Why You Should Watch Them Before You Visit)
Vienna is a beautiful city, teeming with gorgeous streets just begging you to walk down them, stunning buildings you can’t help but take photos of and cute coffee shops incessantly calling your name. With its rich cultural and architectural heritage, it's no surprise that filmmakers from around the world have been drawn to Austria’s capital. Whether you're a cinephile or planning your first visit, these seven films will immerse you in the elegance, intrigue, and history of Vienna. And if you’re booking a night out with Concert Vienna, they’ll put you in the perfect mood.
1. Before Sunrise
Director: Richard Linklater
This cult classic stars Ethan Hawke and Julie Delpy as two young travelers who meet on a train and decide to spend one magical night wandering the streets of Vienna. Their conversations unfold against a backdrop of poetic cityscapes—cafés, bookstores, quiet alleyways, and the famous Zollamtssteg bridge. It’s an ode to youthful spontaneity and the romantic charm of Vienna. Offical Trailer: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0112471/?ref_=nv_sr_srsg_0_tt_8_nm_0_in_0_q_Before
2. Amadeus
Director: Miloš Forman
While filmed mostly in Prague, this Oscar-winning epic gives deep insight into the genius of Mozart, much of whose life unfolded in Vienna. Through the eyes of rival composer Antonio Salieri, the film paints a vivid portrait of musical Vienna at the height of its cultural power. Watching it before attending a classical concert helps you understand the drama behind the music.
Experience Mozart’s music live: https://concert-vienna.com/search?type=product&q=Mozart
3. The Third Man
Director: Carol Reed
A noir thriller set in post-war Vienna, this British classic features unforgettable visuals of a divided city—crumbling facades, eerie streets, and the now-famous Prater Ferris wheel. Orson Welles' performance as the enigmatic Harry Lime and the haunting zither soundtrack elevate this to a cinematic masterpiece. You can even walk the original locations on a dedicated tour.
Official trailer: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0041959/
4. Mission: Impossible – Rogue Nation
Director: Christopher McQuarrie
One of the most memorable scenes from this action blockbuster takes place inside the Vienna State Opera. Tom Cruise dashes through backstage corridors and rooftops as a performance of Puccini’s "Turandot" unfolds. It’s a thrilling blend of espionage and elegance—ideal for anyone planning to attend a concert in Vienna's iconic venues.
Official Trailer: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt2381249/
5. Woman in Gold
Director: Simon Curtis
Helen Mirren delivers a powerful performance as Maria Altmann, a Jewish woman who fought to reclaim Gustav Klimt’s famous portrait of her aunt, which was stolen by the Nazis. The film flashes back to pre-war Vienna and features authentic locations such as the Belvedere Museum, highlighting Vienna’s complicated relationship with its history. Visit the Belvedere and see Klimt’s work: https://www.belvedere.at/en/gustav-klimt
6. Almost Angels
Produced by Disney
This lesser-known gem tells the story of a boy who joins the world-famous Vienna Boys’ Choir. Filmed on location, including the Augarten Palace where the choir is based, it offers a rare glimpse into Vienna’s musical upbringing. It’s a touching, family-friendly film that reflects the city's deep musical tradition. About the Vienna Boys’ Choir: https://wsk.at/jart/prj3/wsk/main.jart?rel=en&reserve-mode=active
7. Amadeus
Director: Miloš Forman
Although it wasn’t filmed in Vienna (in fact, it was filmed almost entirely in Prague), Amadeus gives you a fascinating insight into the life of one of the city’s most prominent and famous masters. Adapted from Peter Shaffer’s stage play of the same name, Amadeus is a 1984 American period drama film set in late 18th-century Vienna. The script acts as a biography for Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and follows Italian composer Antonio Salieri’s intense rivalry with him at the court of Emperor Joseph II. You’ll get to see scenes of Tom Hulce performing as Mozart, as well as more intimate aspects of the composer’s life, including arguing with his wife Constanze and working closely with Salieri. Amadeus is considered to be one of the greatest films of all time and was nominated for 53 awards, 40 of which it received, making it a must-see — even if you’re not going to Vienna.
Final Tip Before You Go
Watching these films before your trip doesn’t just get you excited—it deepens your appreciation for the culture, music, and moments you'll encounter.
Why not end your cinematic journey with a world-class live performance? Book a classical concert with Concert Vienna: https://concert-vienna.com/search?type=product&q=Mozarts
