The Third Man Museum
Vienna
At a glance
The Third Man Museum is a must for cinema lovers and Cold War history fans alike. This independent, passion-driven museum dives deep into the story behind the legendary 1949 film The Third Man, set in postwar Vienna and shows how fiction and reality blurred in a city divided by occupation and espionage.
Step Into the Shadows of Classic Cinema
Inside the museum, you’ll find a treasure trove of over 2,500 original items, from vintage film posters and props to Orson Welles memorabilia and original music recordings, including the iconic zither theme. It’s immersive, niche, and wonderfully curated, offering a behind-the-scenes look into how this noir masterpiece was made and why it still resonates today.
But it’s not just about the film. The museum also explores the real post-war Vienna: Allied occupation, black market culture, and the city’s transformation from ruins to recovery. It’s a deep dive into both cinematic legend and historical truth.
Want to See the Film’s Real Set Locations?
Pair your museum visit with the Third Man Film Location Tour for the full experience. You’ll walk through the actual streets, alleys, and hidden corners featured in the movie from the shadowy sewers to Harry Lime’s infamous rendezvous spots. It’s an atmospheric, on-the-ground journey into 1940s Vienna.
Plan Your Visit
- The museum is open on Saturdays and selected weekdays (check online for current schedule)
- Self-guided and guided tours available, including English-language options
- Allow 1.5 to 2 hours for the museum, and another 2 hours for the walking tour
Visitor Info
- Address: Pressgasse 25, 1040 Vienna, Austria
- Opening Hours: Saturdays 2 PM – 6 PM (plus extra dates seasonally)
- Website: www.thirdmanmuseum.at
- Public Transport: U1 Taubstummengasse or tram 1, station Paulanergasse
Start with the museum to soak in the film’s history, then hit the streets with the Third Man walking tour - a perfect noir double feature in the heart of Vienna.
