With 13,000 inhabitants, Eisenstadt is Austria’s smallest provincial capital. The former seat of the Esterhazy noble family delightfully nestles at the foot of the Leitha mountain range and has plenty to offer for its guests.

Eisenstadt’s major attraction is Schloss Esterházy (1364). Count Esterhazy restored it initially in Baroque and later in classical style (1663-1672). Today the palace serves as venue for a range of cultural events including the orchestral concerts and operas of the famous Haydn festival.

Joseph Haydn, a leading composer of the classical period, left a lasting impression on Eisenstadt where he lived and worked as prince Esterhazy’s Kapellmeister (music director) for over 40 years. Today Haydn’s white marble tomb can be seen in the Bergkirche (Haydnkirche). Other sights include the Haydn mausoleum and the Haydn House. A Haydn Festival is staged every year from early to mid September.