Walk in the footsteps of the Habsburgs, visit the splendid baroque Schönbrunn and Belvedere Palaces, or stroll along the magnificent Ring Boulevard and take a look at the heart of the former vast Habsburg empire, the Imperial Palace. Get a sense of the luster and glory of the old empire by visiting St. Stephen’s Cathedral, the Spanish Riding School, the Giant Ferris Wheel at the Prater, as well as the sarcophagi in the Imperial Vault.
Schönbrunn Palace
Schönbrunn Palace is one of Europe's most beautiful Baroque complexes and has been in the possession of the Habsburgs since 1569. The wife of Emperor Ferdinand II, Eleonore von Gonzaga, had a pleasure palace built on the site in 1642 and called the property "Schönbrunn" for the first time. The palace and garden complex created from 1696 onwards following the siege of Vienna was complete redesigned under Maria Theresa after 1743. Today, due to its historical significance, its unique layout and magnificent furnishings, the palace is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
1,441 rooms for Emperor Franz Joseph and "Sisi"
Emperor Franz Joseph was born in Schönbrunn Palace in 1830. The monarch spent the last years of his life here in their entirety. Schönbrunn Palace has a total of 1,441 rooms, 45 of which can be visited. The interiors are in the Rococo style. Mozart made music in the mirrored hall of Schönbrunn Palace as a six year-old prodigy. In the Round Chinese Cabinet, Maria Theresa held her secret conferences with State Chancellor Prince Kaunitz. Napoleon held conferences in the Vieux Lacque Room. And in the Blue Chinese Salon, Emperor Charles I signed his renunciation of government (end of the monarchy). The Millions Room, paneled with rosewood and decorated with valuable miniatures from India and Persia, ranks amongst the most beautiful Rococo rooms in existence. The Congress of Vienna convened in the Grand Gallery in 1814/15.
From hunting grounds to Baroque garden
Schönbrunn Palace park is open to visitors free of charge all year round and is home to impressive fountains, statues, monuments, trees and flowers as well as the magnificent Gloriette. The Imperial Carriage Museum, Crown Prince Garden, Orangery Garden, Maze & Labyrinth, Zoo, Palm House and Desert Experience House are also part of the palace park.
- Cindy A.
- Los Angeles, United States
- 417 friends
- 394 reviews
- 151 photos
WOW. Schönbrunn Palace is absolutely breathtaking and worth every penny. I recommend coming early and dedicating at least half a day walking around the gardens and taking a tour of the palace. I visited the palace in May and the weather was perfect with the sun shinning, but not too hot. If my feet weren't so sore, I could have spent hours getting lost in the gardens and wandering around the extensive lawns. Climb to the top of the Gloriette and you'll get an extensive view of the palace and the city behind it.
- Jim R.
- Minneapolis, United States
- 45 friends
- 1195 reviews
- 3157 photos
There's a reason this is Austria's #1 attraction, this imposing palace situated adjacent to thousands of acres of parkland, with a zoo and a bunch of other (separately ticketed) attractions is a must visit during any trip to Vienna.
- Cherise N.
- Pinole, United States
- 109 friends
- 175 reviews
- 452 photos
Talk about the life of the elite!! This place was the summer home of the Austrian royalty, those summer days must have been outstanding!
- Mandie P.
- San Antonio, United States
- 83 friends
- 28 reviews
- 4 photos
A truly grande experience can be had at this palace. This property boasting gardens, carriage rides, tours of the grounds and palace, a zoo and more will entertain everyone in your family.
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