Oper im Steinbruch
Three kilometers (2 miles) west of Rust stands the delightful St. Margarethen Quarry, which is used for outdoor opera performances for six weeks during July and August. It's one of the three largest outdoor opera venues in Europe, seating 7,000 nightly. The opera changes annually—previous operas have included Puccini's Turandot and Bizet's Carmen, with a Passion play running every fifth year—and performances also include a dazzling fireworks display. Ticket prices range from around €60 up to more than €150. It's a good idea to bring a seat cushion, if possible, to soften the metal chairs. Bus trips from Vienna and back to see performances can be arranged through several tour agencies, though it's also easily reached by bus from Rust of Eisenstadt. You can buy tickets online or at the ticket office in Eisenstadt. It's also possible to visit the quarry as a part of a €12 guided tour (in German only), held daily in July and August and during weekends in May, June, September and October.
