Museum
Schönbrunn Palace
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Schönbrunn Palace in Vienna is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Austria's most important cultural landmarks. This former imperial summer residence boasts 1,441 rooms in the Rococo style, with the opulent Great Gallery and the Hall of Mirrors being highlights. The palace is surrounded by sprawling Baroque gardens, complete with fountains, statues, and the Gloriette, a grand colonnaded structure on a hill offering panoramic views of Vienna. The estate also includes the world's oldest continuously operating zoo, the Tiergarten Schönbrunn, founded in 1752. Visitors can tour the imperial apartments, stroll through the Privy Garden, or explore the maze and labyrinth. The palace's history is deeply tied to Empress Maria Theresa, who made it the center of court life in the 18th century. A visit here offers a glimpse into the lavish lifestyle of the Habsburg monarchy.
Don't miss
- Tour the imperial apartments and the Great Gallery
- Climb the Gloriette for stunning views of Vienna
- Visit the Schönbrunn Zoo (Tiergarten), the world's oldest zoo
- Explore the Privy Garden and the maze/labyrinth
- Attend a concert in the Orangery or the palace itself
Tickets & tours
Ways to visit Schönbrunn Palace
You don't need a tour to visit, entry is free. A tour is worth it if you want transport, a guide, or to combine Schönbrunn Palace with nearby sights in one day. That's what these do well.
Cheapest way inSkip the Line:Imperial Carriage Museum by Schönbrunn Kaiserliche Wagenburg Wien4.6★ · 64 travelers~1 hourFree cancellationFrom$14 per personSee dates →
Most bookedBest of Vienna : Historic Center Walking Tour4.9★ · 1,918 travelers~3 hoursFree cancellationFrom$89 per personSee dates →
Private & flexibleBest of Vienna 1-Day Tour by Car with Schonbrunn Tickets4.5★ · 19 travelers3-8 hoursFree cancellationFrom$370 per personSee dates →Getting there
Know before you go
- Palace opens at 8:30 AM; last entry varies by season (check official site). Gardens open daily from 6:30 AM.
- Photography is not allowed inside the palace rooms.
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking the extensive gardens.
- Audio guides are available in multiple languages and are highly recommended.
A bit of history
Schönbrunn was originally a hunting lodge in the 16th century, but was transformed into a grand palace under Empress Maria Theresa in the 1740s–1760s. It served as the summer residence of the Habsburgs until 1918 and hosted the famous 1961 summit between Kennedy and Khrushchev.
Common questions
How long does it take to visit Schönbrunn?
Plan at least 3–4 hours for the palace and gardens; a full day if you also visit the zoo.
Can I buy tickets at the door?
Yes, but booking online in advance is recommended to avoid long queues, especially in peak season.
Is the zoo included in the palace ticket?
No, the zoo requires a separate ticket. Combination tickets are available.
What is the best time of year to visit?
Spring and autumn offer mild weather and beautiful garden colors. Summer can be crowded.
Are there guided tours?
Yes, guided tours are available in several languages. Audio guides are also offered.
Can I bring food into the gardens?
Yes, picnicking is allowed in designated areas. There are also cafés on site.
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