The Grein Stadttheater, built in 1791 inside a former granary, is one of the world's smallest and best-preserved Rococo theatres — and it still performs. A guided backstage tour reveals hand-painted scenery, original 18th-century machinery, and a story that most of Europe's cognoscenti have yet to discover.
What to expect
Your guide — often a theatre historian or company member — escorts you through the intimate 130-seat auditorium with its painted wooden tiers and gilded boxes. Backstage, original hemp-rope fly systems and hand-cranked machinery that created 18th-century 'special effects' are still intact and demonstrated. The theatre is embedded in the medieval Rathaus complex, so the tour naturally flows into the cobblestone square outside. If a performance coincides with your call, evening tickets (from EUR 22) make for an unforgettable return after dinner.
Good to know
Tours run on a fixed schedule; check the website for the day's times and book ahead for private groups. The theatre is a 3-minute walk from the Danube quay, inside the historic town hall building. Tours last approximately 45 minutes.
Sail there
Luxury cruises that call at Grein — book through us, the fare is identical and your concierge stays on your side.