Iron Maiden live in Vienna – Run for Your Lives Tour 2025 Concert Review
- L7
- Jul 20
- 3 min read
Expectations
My third Iron Maiden show on this tour, and the second time with Avatar as the support band. So, no big surprises expected in terms of setlist or stage production—but there’s always something new to experience. This time, it was Vienna, one of my favorite cities in the world. Plus, the venue: Ernst-Happel-Stadion, an incredible place for concerts. Another difference for me was the seating—I had a seat on the side this time. Let’s see how that perspective feels.
Arrival, Merch & Beer
I booked a hotel near Prater. Vienna is split by bridges, with Ernst-Happel-Stadion on one side and the city center on the other. From past experience, staying on the opposite side can mean long delays after shows because of heavy traffic over the bridges. This time, just a 25-minute walk through a beautiful street, lots of fans on the way, and perfect weather. Coming back after the show was just as easy—the area was well-lit and full of people walking.
I went a bit earlier this time because I really wanted the event shirt for Vienna. There were two merch stands outside the stadium and a smaller stand with items I hadn’t noticed at other venues—maybe I missed them before, maybe they were exclusive. The Vienna event shirt was awesome: Phantom of the Opera artwork at the Vienna Opera on the front, and the usual graffiti-style back design with the date and city. The small stand had overpriced accessories like wristbands (€10), beer holders, and lanyards—not worth it in my opinion.
Beer was from Ottakringer, which I like, but the price was the highest I’ve seen so far this year: €7.50 plus €3 for the cup. If you pay with cash, that €10.50 change situation is awkward, but luckily card payment was available.
Tour cups were the same three designs as in previous shows: Powerslave, Tour Artwork, and Aces High. All great.
Avatar
This time I saw the full set and had a better view from my seat. I’m still not a big fan of their style, but they deliver a solid show. What they do, they do well. The sound was excellent—no surprise there, as I’ve never had bad audio at this stadium. Visually, it’s not my thing, but that’s clearly part of their identity. They even have a song called “Smells Like a Freakshow”, and that sums up their aesthetic. After the show, I got messages from younger fans saying they loved it. They clearly have a strong audience.
Iron Maiden
This time, my perspective was completely different. In Prague, I was front of stage. In Gelsenkirchen, I was standing on the opposite tribune. In Vienna, I was seated on the right side (facing the stage), Category 1. It felt close to the stage, and I could really focus on the band rather than the screens. The main screen was almost completely out of view for me—only the sides were visible.
What stood out, as always, was the presence and energy of every band member. They radiate happiness and professionalism on stage. And an important reminder: Nicko McBrain is no longer touring with the band, and the new drummer did a fantastic job.
Bruce’s voice deserves special mention. At 66 years old, after everything he has gone through, he still nails those notes. During Powerslave, I kept thinking, “He sounds incredible. What a voice.”
The stage show featured three different Eddies: the first during Killers, the second for The Trooper, and the third as an animated video. That last one was so well done that from some seats, it really felt like Eddie was there in person.
Final Thoughts
Another amazing performance in a city that always delivers. Great sound, great energy, and a setlist worth remembering. If I could change one thing, it would be the beer prices—they’re getting a little crazy in some cities. But overall, Vienna remains one of the best places to enjoy a concert. I can’t wait to be back.
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