Fodor's Expert Review Oper im Steinbruch

Three kilometers (two miles) west of Rust, outside the tiny village of St. Margarethen, is Römersteinbruch, a delightful rock quarry 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 €40 up to nearly €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. You can buy tickets online or at the ticket office in Eisenstadt.