The Grafenegg Festival offers a rich and diverse programme under the artistic direction of Rudolf Buchbinder, bringing together leading international orchestras, renowned soloists, and top-tier conductors. While large orchestral concerts form the core of the festival—especially those on the open-air stage Wolkenturm —the programme also includes chamber music, vocal recitals, and occasional choral projects, creating a well-balanced musical experience.
Rather than focusing on a single historical period, Grafenegg embraces a wide musical spectrum. You’ll hear everything from classical and romantic masterpieces to contemporary works, including world premieres and commissions created through both the festival’s Composer in Residence programme and the Composer conductor workshop Ink Still Wet. This blend of tradition and innovation is a defining hallmark of the festival.
Grafenegg welcomes many of the world’s most established artists each summer, yet it also offers a platform for rising talents. Through its residency programmes, educational initiatives, and carefully curated line-ups, the festival supports emerging musicians while maintaining the highest artistic standards.
Concerts are held outdoors on the Wolkenturm, indoors in the Auditorium Grafenegg, and in special performances inside the castle itself. Summer 2026 will see the opening of the Rudolf Buchbinder Saal, a new chamber-sized hall for around 500 guests. Visitors can easily move between venues while enjoying the historic architecture and landscaped park.
On-site options include the Mörwald Restaurant and cafes as well as a traditional Weinlounge, but guests can also bring their own picnic or purchase a picnic package to enjoy in the castle park. Lawn ticket holders (Rasenplatz) are welcome to picnic during concerts. Nearby towns offer traditional Austrian dining, though advance booking is recommended during the festival.
Everyone’s welcome to dress however they feel most comfortable. Most people tend to dress smart-casual to semi-formal for evening concerts, with a more relaxed attire for daytime outdoor events. Layering is recommended, as summer evenings can be cool. Sunscreen, hats and insect repellent are useful for outdoor performances, and comfortable shoes are advised for walking around the castle grounds.
The Grafenegg Festival takes place on the grounds of Grafenegg Castle, a historic estate with a large landscaped park, surrounded by scenic vineyards, in the vicinity of the charming town of Grafenegg, Lower Austria, about 10 km northeast of Krems an der Donau. The location offers a peaceful countryside atmosphere while remaining easily accessible from Vienna, around 60 km away.
By train: Visitors can travel from Vienna (Franz-Josefs-Bahnhof, Spittelau, or Heiligenstadt) to Wagram-Grafenegg station, followed by a 30-minute walk to the festival grounds or a short taxi ride.
By car: The journey takes 40–50 minutes via the A22 and S5 motorway, with ample parking at the castle.
By bus: A bus service from Vienna is also available on concert days; tickets can be booked via the festival website.
On-site options include the elegant Mörwald Hotel and Grafenegg Cottages, offering modern comfort just steps from the Wolkenturm and Auditorium, and can be booked via Grafenegg’s website. Nearby towns such as Krems, Langenlois, and Grafenwörth offer boutique hotels, guesthouses, and vineyard lodgings. Because festival nights are popular, early booking is strongly recommended. A list of suitable accommodation can be found on the festival website as well.
The region is rich in culture and natural beauty. Krems an der Donau offers medieval streets, museums, and vibrant café culture. The Wachau Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is famous for vineyards, apricot orchards, and picturesque villages like Dürnstein. Stift Göttweig, perched above the Danube, features Baroque architecture and stunning views. The Kamptal Wine Region invites visitors to explore family-run wineries and sample Grüner Veltliner and Riesling wines.
