Top 10 Austria Music Festivals: A Symphony Of Culture And Celebration

Image of people on concert dancing in front of stage in a music festival event

Being a country of mountains, historic cities, and classical music origin, Austria is home to some of the best-known Austria music festivals that entice thousands of music fans from all over the world. From lovers of technological music rhythms, and jazz music notes to classical symphony music, different music festivals are held in Austria. Learn more about Austrian music festivals and explore the spectacular shows with impressive scenery that must be seen and heard.

10 Popular Music Festivals In Austria

Discover Austria music festivals scene with our guide. Some of the most prominent music festivals to enjoy in Austria include:

1. Salzburg Festival

A grand theater with ornate architecture, illuminated at night, likely the Salzburg Festival Hall

Photo: Hanny Naibaho / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only

The festival of Salzburg is undoubtedly one of the most important music festivals in Austria. This event is held annually in the birthplace of the famous composer of opera, Mozart, and features classical music, opera, and drama. Shaped as a major event that can be attended both by performers and viewers, it is embraced as the prime level of cultural activity in Austria. This festival has been in existence since 19 and continues to serve as one of the greatest musical attractions of Salzburg to date.

Timings: July to August
Entry Fee: Varies depending on the event

2. Electric Love Festival

A vibrant image of the Electric Love Festival, showcasing a massive stage with dazzling lights

Photo: Ss279 / Wikimedia Commons

For fans of electronic music, there is a music festival in Austria which is called the Electric Love Festival. This event is a mixed-gender electronic dance music event that takes place at the beautiful backdrop of Salzburgring. It is famous for great stages, great performers, and an amazing crowd that performs before thousands of its visitors coming from all over Europe and even overseas.

Timings: July
Entry Fee: Starts from €99
Top Experiences: Camping village, scenic views of the Alps in Austria, attend after-parties

3. Vienna Jazz Festival

A vibrant poster for the Vienna Jazz Festival, showcasing a stylized saxophone and a cityscape

Photo: Manfred Werner / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Vienna Jazz Festival remains one of the most important music festivals of Austria exhibiting tremendous jazz performances in dubbed buildings such as the Vienna State Opera. Afforded the reputation as one of the biggest jazz festivals in Europe, it has appearances from both homegrown jazz talent as well as talents from all over the world every year. The festival causes the city of Vienna to become a paradise for jazz enthusiasts. Whether watching a quiet smooth jazz band in some of the small clubs to large-scale musical performances in great jazz halls, everyone is enticed.

Timings: June to July
Entry Fee: Varies by event
Tourist Attractions: Hofburg Palace, Belvedere Palace,St. Stephen’s Cathedral, Vienna Prater

4. Innsbruck Festival Of Early Music

A poster for the Innsbruck Festival of Early Music, showcasing a stylized musical instrument and the Innsbruck cityscape

Photo: Simon Legner / Wikimedia Commons

This is an annual music festival, held in Austria, devoted to the works of the Renaissance and Baroque eras in their stylistically pristine form. Being held in Innsbruck it targets all those people who are fans of classical and traditional compositions. Specifically, the best demonstrates the desire of European nations to preserve and develop great musical traditions, presenting to the public rarely performed works.

Timings: July to August
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 days

5. Donauinselfest

Diverse crowd enjoying music and festivities on the Danube Island in Vienna

Photo: Manfred Werner / Wikimedia Commons

Donauinselfest is the biggest free open-air music festival in Europe and one of the most popular music festivals in Austria. This takes place at Danube Island in Vienna and has the participation of artists in various categories such as pop, rock, electronic, and folk music. This means you get an incredible festival, pulling millions of people annually, at absolutely no charge.

Location: Vienna, Danube Island
Entry Fee: Free
Top Experiences: Free live musical shows, Relax by the Danube River, discover Vienna nightlife, engage in cultural events and programs

6. Grafenegg Festival

A poster for the Grafenegg Festival, showcasing a classical music performance in the idyllic setting of Schloss Grafenegg

Photo: Studio Iris / Wikimedia Commons

The Grafenegg Festival is the best music festival in Austria for lovers of classical orchestral performances. Conducted in Grafenegg Castle, it is a unique musical festival, which unites music with the atmosphere of the Lower Austrian countryside.

Timings: August to September
Nearest Airport: Vienna International Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Krems an der Donau Station

7. Bregenzer Festspiele

during Bregenzer Festspiele - Tancredi at Festspielhaus, Bregenz, Voralberg, Austria

Photo: Sven Mandel / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

The Bregenzer Festspiele, one of the world’s most unique festivals, takes place annually in Bregenz, Austria, along the stunning shores of Lake Constance. Founded in 1946, it features a diverse program, including operas, concerts, and theatrical performances, with its iconic floating stage as a centerpiece. The festival draws international artists and large audiences, showcasing productions that often blend innovative staging with breathtaking natural backdrops. The Bregenzer Festspiele promises an unforgettable cultural experience every summer.

Timings: July to August
Top Tourist Attractions: Explore Lake Constance, Visit Pfänder Mountain for panoramic views, Tour the Bregenz Art Museum

8. Nova Rock Festival

A crowd of people enjoying a rock concert at the Nova Rock Festival, with a large stage and colorful lights in the background.

Photo: Alfred Nitsch / Wikimedia Commons

The Nova Rock Festival is an electrifying annual music event held in Austria, attracting rock and metal fans from around the world. Featuring an impressive lineup of both international headliners and emerging artists, the festival offers a vibrant atmosphere filled with live performances, art installations, and unique experiences. Held in a picturesque setting, it combines music with camping and social activities, making it a memorable destination for enthusiasts. ,

Timings: June
Entry Fee: €150 onwards

9. Woodstock Der Blasmusik

A crowd of people enjoying a brass band performance at the Woodstock der Blasmusik Festival

Photo: Didelu / Wikimedia Commons

For lovers of traditional brass music, Woodstock der Blasmusik should be a definite time on the calendar for those living in Austria or those visiting this country. This festival is held in Upper Austria and focuses on folk and brass music, though with unexpected accents. This has developed into amongst the most popular music festivals in Austria and has attracted different groups of people who like both traditional and modern brass music.

Timings: June
Entry Fee: €60 onwards

10. Waves Vienna

A vibrant poster for the Waves Vienna music festival, showcasing a diverse lineup

Photo: Manfred Werner / Wikimedia Commons

Waves Vienna is an annual music festival held in Vienna, Austria, showcasing emerging talent across various genres. Taking place in the fall, it features performances by both local and international artists in multiple venues around the city. The festival also includes workshops and industry events, fostering connections between musicians, fans, and music professionals. With its vibrant atmosphere and focus on creativity, Waves Vienna celebrates innovation in the music scene, making it a must-visit destination for music lovers and industry insiders alike.

Timings: September
Entry Fee: €50 onwards

Austria’s diverse music festivals cater to every genre, from classical symphonies to modern electronic beats. Whether you are attending the Salzburg Festival for a taste of tradition or dancing the night away at Electric Love Festival, a music festival in Austria promises a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Explore these vibrant events and create unforgettable memories as you immerse yourself in Austria’s rich musical culture, book your trip with TripXL.

Cover Photo: Luismi Sánchez / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only

Frequently Asked Questions

The Electric Love Festival primarily focuses on electronic dance music (EDM), including subgenres like house, techno, dubstep, and trance. The festival features performances by renowned international DJs, creating an electrifying atmosphere for electronic music lovers.
While there is no strict dress code for most music festivals in Austria, it is recommended to wear comfortable clothing and footwear, especially for festivals that take place outdoors.
Yes, many Austrian music festivals offer camping facilities or are located near hotels, guesthouses, and hostels. Popular festivals like the Electric Love Festival and Nova Rock Festival often provide nearby accommodation options.
Yes, some festivals in Austria are family-friendly. For example, the Donauinselfest offers a more relaxed atmosphere with activities suitable for all ages.
Tickets for Austrian music festivals can typically be purchased through the official festival websites, as well as through online platforms such as Eventim and Ticketmaster.

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