Can anyone tell me at what time this takes place? I understand it is in the evening, but when does it start and how long does it continue?

From what I've seen, the orchestras start just after dark. Or maybe even right before.

I've never seen them pack up, but I know I've been in the piazza around 9 p.m. and they were still going.

I'm not sure when they stop either, but I was there 10:30 pm or after and they were still playing.

Hi kraspa:

In early October, the orchestras were even playing in late afternoon, I would say about 4:00, since we sat down for a drink at the Florian. On a dry night they were playing until midnight, while on a rainly evening, the Florian orchestra stopped playing altogether and the one across the street (having an amnesia here) moved indoors.

Anna Roz

The establishment opposite (the other "duelist&quot is named Quadri.

Absolutely right, Quadri! There was yet a third cafe with an orchestra, on the same side as Quadri and closer toward the canal. Again, no recollection of the name, G-d help me, but music was divine.

thanks for the good question and answers - I don't want to miss this

We've been there past midnight numerous times and they were still "dueling".

thank you everyone who replied. I figure to have dinner around 7 - 7:30 and have it last until 9:30 so I was hoping I would not miss it. Even though expensive, I do believe I will be sitting for a drink or coffee. Just part of the experience!

One of the lasting holiday memories is one evening the orchestras were in full flow and a party of Austrians started to waltz in the middle and everyone joined in, it was wonderful. The orchestras got in the mood and competed playing waltz music.

Two small glasses of dessert wine cost an equivalent of $30.00 at the Florian, inclusive of the Euro 5 (per person) music cover charge. It was worth every cent and more! Enjoy!

Anna Roz