Artis Kino Vienna

The summer months may bring the blockbusters, but fall and winter bring bad weather; perfect movie-watching-weather.

I used to live in a small town in Switzerland where it was nearly impossible to find a movie in English, no matter how American the blockbuster, no matter how many explosions, and no matter how many famous faces there were. While I like watching movies in other languages, I still prefer the big Hollywood flicks in the original version (OV). So when I moved to Vienna, I was stunned by the options available to OV fans. But, while most are fascinated by the history and atmosphere of the Burgkino on the Ringstrasse, I immediately fell in love with the Artis Kino.

Tucked away in the 1st district, just far enough from Stephansplatz to elude those not looking for it, the Artis Kino is a gem of a theater built entirely into a classic Altbau house near the iconic Judenplatz. The façade would blend in anywhere in the 1st district, but once inside, the seating is surprisingly pleasant and the acoustics are perfectly adequate for an action flick. 

The prices are reasonable and the beer selection better than average. And most of the major Hollywood movies take a turn there, so one does not need to be too picky.   

Afterwards, there are several nearby bars to discuss the films, have a drink, and take a picturesque stroll through Judenplatz on to Am Hof. A more pleasant evening is hard to be had.