Uncover the origins of Hitler and explore Vienna’s darkest era on a 2.5-hour walking tour. Discover the scars of World War II and visit the only surviving synagogue from the Holocaust.
- Vienna State Opera - On May 25, 1869, the opening was celebrated in the presence of Emperor Franz Joseph and Empress Elisabeth with a premiere of Don Juan by Mozart. But than after 1938 everything changed including the cultural life in Vienna changed.After the “Anschluss” of Austria, Adolf Hitler visited the State Opera on June 19 and October 27, 1938. The period of National Socialism saw the departure, persecution and murder of artists and employees. For several works there was a ban on performance.
- Memorial Against War & Fascism - The Memorial against War and Fascism is the work of Austrian sculptor Alfred Hrdlicka. It has stood since 1988 on Vienna’s Albertinaplatz - named after Helmut Zilk in 2009. The memorial it is intended to serve as a reminder of the darkest era in Austrian history. It is dedicated to all victims of war and fascism.
- Akademie der bildenden Kunste - Art school that didnt accept Hitler as a student
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Heldenplatz - Heldenplatz on March 15, 1938
Hitler’s speech from the balcony of the Neue Hofburg has become the epitome of the National Socialist seizure of power and the broad approval of it - and the trauma “Heldenplatz” for the Second Republic. - Judenplatz Holocaust Memorial - Mahnmal für die österreichischen jüdischen Opfer der Schoah
Memorial for the Austrian Jewish victims of the Shoah
Detail Memorial for the Austrian Jewish victims of the Shoah
In memory of the more than 65,000 Austrian Jews who were murdered by the National Socialists between 1938 and 1945.
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Morzinplatz - Memorial at Morzinplatz
Detail memorial at Morzinplatz
The former luxury hotel “Metropole” became one of the most brutal Gestapo headquarters in the Third Reich. -
Stadttempel Synagogue - The “Seitenstettentempel” is hidden behind a tenement building.
The main synagogue of Vienna is located at Seitenstettengasse 4. According to the regulations in force at that time, non-Catholic places of worship had to be hidden and could not be visible from the street. Therefore, the synagogue stands behind a five-story apartment building. Above the entrance gate of the street building is the inscription: “Come to his gates with thanksgiving, to his courts with praise!”
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- Licensed and knowledgeable guide
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Gratuities for the guide (optional)
- Food and drinks
Join our intimate crew of 4 history buffs seeking to shine a light on how rapidly things can evolve! This 2.5-hour walking tour of the historical heart of Vienna offers insight into Hitler’s formative years and beginnings. Throughout this tour, you’ll gain a comprehensive understanding of Austrian and European history from 1900 to 1955. Guided by our expert, unravel the mysteries behind how a mere Austrian postcard artist became universally loathed. Where could have Hitler and Stalin possibly crossed paths? See the lasting marks of World War II and stop by the singular synagogue that survived the Holocaust. Take an in-depth journey into Vienna’s darkest eras.
- Due to many cobblestones on our route, not recommended for guest within a wheelchair
- Please wear comfortable shoes and clothes
- Due to Vienna’s unpredictable weather, please bring water, sunblock, raincoat or umbrella
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.