Mozarthaus Vienna

Lonely Planet review

Given a thorough polishing for the Mozart anniversary in 2006, Mozarthaus Vienna, the great composer's residence for 2.5 happy and productive years, is now the city's premiere Mozart attraction.

The exhibition concentrates on the life and times of Mozart in Vienna (a total of 10 years). The top floor deals with the society of the age, with asides into prominent figures in the court and Mozart's life, such as the Freemasons to whom he dedicated a number of pieces. Mozart's vices - his womanising, gambling and ability to waste excessive amounts of money - are far from ignored, but come across as endearing rather than wayward. The second floor concentrates on Mozart's music, and his musical influences. It was here that he penned The Marriage of Figaro . A surreal holographic performance of scenes from The Magic Flute grab most people's attention in the last room.

The final floor is sparsely furnished in period pieces to represent Mozart's apartment, but as no records exist of the purpose the rooms served, the layout is an educated guess. An audio guide is included in the admission price, and is an invaluable companion.