Things To Do in Eisenstadt

Even before assuming its new role as capital, Eisenstadt was renowned as the place where the great composer Franz Josef Haydn lived and worked while under the patronage of the Esterházys. For a good part of his life (1732-1809), Haydn divided his time between Eisenstadt and Esterházy Castle in Hungary. Prince Esterházy eventually gave the composer his own orchestra and a concert hall in which to perform.

In September, the Haydn Days festival presents an ongoing roster of the composer's works at various venues throughout town -- the castle, local churches, parks -- when the weather is good.

With a little effort, you can find some tempting shops in Eisenstadt's old town. Most appealing to visitors in our opinion is Trachten Tack, Hauptstrasse 8 (tel. 02682/62428), where you'll find folkloric Burgenland-derived clothing, as well as the widest selection of handicrafts in town.

Carrying an impressive inventory of wine, Schloss Weingut Esterházy, Schloss Esterházy (tel. 02682/63345), is set on the street level of Eisenstadt's most famous building. Most of the wine is produced on the 60 hectares (148 acres) of vineyards associated with the castle. One part of the store is devoted to native son Josef Haydn and sells souvenirs related to his accomplishments.

Don't expect a lot, as there simply isn't much nightlife within small and sleepy Eisenstadt. You might have a quiet drink or two at such popular spots as the Café Alex Nöhrer, Ignaz-Semmelweisse-Gasse 1 (tel. 02682/65593), or at any of the hidden bars whose clientele and flavor changes depending on what time of day you happen to arrive and on whoever happens to be there when you show up. Currently enjoying popularity are the Mango Bar, Domplatz 4 (tel. 06649/793160), and Bodega La Ina, Hauptstrasse 48 (tel. 02682/62305). And if you want to go dancing, head for the town's only dance club, the James Dean, Mattesburgerstrasse 26 (tel. 2682/62449), an interesting combination of Mitteleuropa and 1950s America.