Definitely preferred to the main famous Opera House of Vienna (Staatsoper, you can see a review for it on my yelp page). Also has theatre and ballet that I know of.
Across the street from U6, potential street parking (be aware of parking restrictions/passes in Vienna, even though there are no signs on the street about that that I have seen).
First, I do not think you can have a bad seat in this house. I would recommend the balconies/gallery versus the floor because they are having arena seating, versus relatively flat ground floor, so you may be blocked on the floor from having a full view by the person in front of you (tall person, big hair, that kind of thing). Interestingly enough, the balconies/galleries are generally cheaper for this better experience. For those of you comparing between this and the Staatsoper, yes, it is smaller inside and not the few beautiful ceilings you may or may not be able to see at the Staatoper, but the architecture of the seating is better and more comfortable. For those with longer legs though, if you are on the balcony at Volksoper, you should watch not to have the first row seats as you may feel your knees on the balcony wall.
By the way, bathrooms at multiple levels, and as a girl I did not have to wait to use one.
Coat check does cost about a Euro, but it is very fast service (impressively so).
There is a screen above the stage, sometimes in German even if the opera is in German, but sometimes in English (although I think it gives just some high light lines, versus every word, but definitely good enough).
The philharmonic here was very good. Great conductor. There are also many more women included than in the Staatsoper, where there were only 2 that we could find (could be coincidence, but it is nice to see more balance).
Acoustics are good, but a few times I thought it could have been a bit better. Perhaps I am just spoiled by great acoustics at other Opera houses.
Do not go hungry/thirsty, because there is limited options, and you will probably be scared someone stole your wallet after because it feels so light.
Also, pick up of tickets on location was very good and fluid. Almost no line. They ask you for your last name and have an envelope ready for you. Took us under 4 minutes after arriving to have the tickets in our hands. Instructions are that you must pick up tickets at least 30 minutes prior to start time, which is when seating doors open (not before).
Last point is sometimes between scene set they do have an odd pause for a few minutes, but once you realize that's what's going (first time we thought something happened to the singer because it took quite a few minutes), it is also ok.
Overall: Preferred location for Opera in Vienna. Good seats, right price, good service, great philharmonic. read more