Often called the “City of Dreams,”, Vienna is a destination that effortlessly blends rich history, timeless elegance, and a vibrant contemporary culture. Before you set foot in this enchanting European capital, there’s a delightful way to prepare yourself for the journey ahead—by watching films that capture the essence, charm, and allure of the Austrian capital. In this blog post, we’ll take you on a cinematic tour of this magnificent city, unveiling a curated selection of five extraordinary movies that will not only whet your wanderlust but also provide you with unique insights into its soul.
From classic romance to thrilling mysteries, these films are your cinematic tickets to a prelude of the Viennese experience. So, dim the lights, grab some popcorn, and let’s embark on a cinematic journey that will have you falling in love with Austria even before you arrive.
The Ultimate Movies you have to watch before travelling to Vienna:
Before Sunrise
In the realm of cinematic romance, few films capture the essence of chance encounters and fleeting connections as poignantly as “Before Sunrise,” Directed by Richard Linklater, this cinematic gem whisks us away to the enchanting streets of Vienna, where two strangers find themselves at the crossroads of destiny. Ethan Hawke and Julie Delpy deliver unforgettable performances as Jesse and Céline, two young travelers who meet on a train and impulsively decide to spend an evening exploring ther city together. “Before Sunrise” is a celebration of the beauty of human connection, the magic of serendipity, and the profound impact a single night can have on two souls.
Sissi
In the world of timeless cinematic classics, few films have captured the hearts of generations quite like “Sissi“. Directed by Ernst Marischka, this enchanting tale invites us into the resplendent courts of 19th-century Austria and into the life of one of history’s most beloved figures, Empress Elisabeth of Austria. “Sissi” is not just a film; it’s an immersive journey into the fairy tale life of a young and spirited Bavarian princess who unexpectedly finds herself at the center of an empire. Romy Schneider’s iconic portrayal of Sissi is a cinematic treasure that has resonated for decades, embodying grace, charm, and a spirit of independence that transcends time.
3096 Days
In the chilling world of true-crime cinema, few stories are as harrowing and enigmatic as that of Natascha Kampusch. “3096 Days,” a haunting film directed by Sherry Hormann, unravels the incredible true story of a young girl who endured a nightmare that lasted for over eight years.This gripping narrative begins on a seemingly ordinary day in Vienna when 10-year-old Natascha is kidnapped and thrust into a hidden, underground world. The film chronicles her 3,096 days in captivity, held captive by her abductor Wolfgang Přiklopil in a concealed cellar. It’s a tale of unimaginable suffering, resilience, and the unyielding human spirit.
A Dangerous Method
A Dangerous Method directed by David Cronenberg, the worlds of Sigmund Freud and Carl Jung collide in a gripping exploration of early 20th-century psychoanalysis. Set against the backdrop of a changing Europe and the looming World War I, the film delves into the complex relationship between these pioneers and their enigmatic patient, Sabina Spielrein. As Freud and Jung navigate intellectual discovery, ethical dilemmas, and their evolving beliefs, “A Dangerous Method” is a captivating journey into the human psyche, where intellect battles instinct, and the boundaries of sanity and desire blur.
The Third Man
If you are interested how Austria’s capital looked like 60 years ago, then The Third Man is the movie for you. Unfortunately, many of the locations shown in the movie have been destroyed in WW2. Some of the places you still may recognize today include: Zentralfriedhof, Riesenrad, Morzinplatz, Reichsbrücke, 8 Schreyvogelgasse, Neuer Markt, Hotel Sacher and Palais Pallavicini. The story follows a writer who travels to Vienna to investigate a murder. It’s an old movie classic, that is highly rated and that will definitely increase your excitement about visiting the Austrian capital.
If you’re a book lover, then don’t forget to check out our list of the 5 books you have to read before travelling to Vienna, Austria in 2023.
If you are also looking for the perfect travel itinerary for your holiday in Vienna, then please check out our guide for the perfect 3-day winter trip to the capital of Austria.