Kunsthistorisches Museum Wien

The Kunsthistorisches Museum Wien is a treasure trove of art and antiquities, located in a palatial building that is itself a work of art. As you ascend the grand staircase, you're greeted by Gustav Klimt's stunning murals before entering galleries filled with works from the Habsburgs' vast collections. The museum's Picture Gallery is particularly renowned for its exceptional holdings of Old Masters, including the world's largest collection of Pieter Bruegel the Elder's paintings, such as the iconic 'Tower of Babel'. Beyond paintings, the museum boasts an impressive array of Egyptian, Greek, and Roman artifacts, as well as decorative arts and coins. The opulent interiors, with marble columns and ornate ceilings, create an atmosphere of imperial grandeur that enhances the experience of viewing these priceless works. Visitors often spend hours exploring the Kunstkammer, a cabinet of curiosities featuring intricate mechanical devices and exotic naturalia.

Don't miss

• Bruegel Collection: See the world's largest gathering of Pieter Bruegel the Elder's paintings, including 'The Hunters in the Snow'.
• Kunstkammer: Marvel at the dazzling array of intricate goldsmith work, automata, and curiosities from the Renaissance and Baroque periods.
• Egyptian and Near Eastern Collection: Explore mummies, sarcophagi, and artifacts spanning 4,000 years of history.
• Picture Gallery: Admire masterpieces by Vermeer, Rembrandt, Raphael, and Caravaggio in sumptuous period rooms.
• Grand Staircase: Look up at the ceiling frescoes by Gustav Klimt and his brother Ernst, depicting allegories of art.

Tickets & tours

Ways to visit Kunsthistorisches Museum Wien

Cheapest way inEntrance tickets for the KunstHausWien. Museum Hundertwasser4.5★ · 91 travelers1–2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$5 per personSee dates →Most bookedBest of Vienna : Historic Center Walking Tour4.9★ · 1,911 travelers~3 hoursFree cancellationFrom$88 per personSee dates →Private & flexiblePrivate Tour of the Kunsthistorisches Museum: Secrets of Masterpieces | Tickets included5★ · 28 travelers~3 hoursFree cancellationFrom$280 per personSee dates →

Know before you go

• Allow at least 2 hours; the collection is vast and you'll want time to linger.
• Photography without flash is permitted in most galleries, but some special exhibitions may restrict it.
• Free audio guides are available in multiple languages, providing insightful commentary on key works.
• The museum shop offers high-quality reproductions and art books; the café serves excellent coffee and cake.

A bit of history

Opened in 1891 by Emperor Franz Joseph I, the museum was built to house the Habsburgs' extensive art collections. The building was designed by architects Gottfried Semper and Karl von Hasenauer as part of the grand Ringstraße development.