Schoenbrunn Palace: Info & Tickets

Schönbrunn Palace is one of Austria's most important cultural treasures and has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1996. Originally built as a hunting lodge in the 17th century, Schönbrunn developed into the magnificent summer residence of the Habsburgs under Empress Maria Theresa. For centuries, the palace served as the political and cultural center of the empire. Today, it is a living monument to imperial history and a magnet for visitors from all over the world.

How can you visit Schönbrunn Palace?

A visit to Schönbrunn Palace is a must for anyone visiting Vienna!

Admission is particularly convenient with the Vienna PASS or the Vienna FLEXI Pass: both passes allow free admission to numerous attractions on the Schönbrunn Palace grounds, including the State Apartments Tour at Schönbrunn Palace, the maze, the Children's Museum, the Gloriette viewing terrace, and the Panoramabahn Schönbrunn!

You can obtain your free ticket with a fixed admission time for the State Apartments Tour through Schönbrunn Palace at the ticket counter in the Group Center/Arrival Center Schönbrunn.

Tip: Due to high demand, we recommend that you pick up your ticket early in the morning (from 8:30 a.m.) at the Group Center/Arrival Center Schönbrunn. If, for capacity reasons, admission is no longer possible on the same day, you will receive a ticket with a fixed admission time for the following day.

In addition to the State Apartments Tour, you will have access to the 15-minute immersive pre-show at Schönbrunn Palace, where you will learn additional exciting information about the history of the palace in other rooms (including an audio guide in 18 languages).

Opening hours:

The palace is open all year round – daily from approximately 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (depending on the season). Last admission is approximately 45 minutes before closing time. It is advisable to book tickets online in advance to avoid waiting times – especially during the high season.

For anyone interested in a guided tour of Schönbrunn Palace, our Vienna City Tour with Schönbrunn Palace and Schönbrunn Palace and Gardens Tour is just the thing!

Which sights/attractions should I visit?

The baroque palace complex offers an impressive overall experience:

The Baroque Schönbrunn Palace was the former summer residence of the Habsburgs and is now one of Austria's most important cultural monuments. On a guided tour through the magnificent rooms, visitors can experience imperial living culture and life at the imperial court up close. Highlights include the Grand Gallery, Franz Joseph's bedroom, and the Hall of Mirrors, where Mozart once played.

The Gloriette sits enthroned on a hill in the palace park and offers a breathtaking view of the entire palace complex and Vienna's city center. The impressive structure once served as a viewing terrace and breakfast salon for the imperial family. Today it houses a café—perfect for a break with a panoramic view.

The extensive palace park is a Baroque garden masterpiece and is open to the public. With its magnificent avenues, ornate fountains, classical sculptures, and well-tended flower beds, it invites visitors to take long walks. The park is open all year round and is a popular place for relaxation and inspiration.

The historic Palm House in the palace park is one of the largest of its kind in Europe. It houses an impressive collection of exotic plants from tropical and subtropical climates. The filigree iron and glass construction from the 19th century is not only a botanical highlight, but also an architectural one.

Founded in 1752, Schönbrunn Zoo is the oldest zoo in the world – and also one of the most modern. Over 700 animal species live here in natural enclosures, including elephants, pandas, lions, and penguins. The zoo is actively involved in species conservation and environmental education and is an experience for young and old alike.

The Panoramabahn Schönbrunn connects the most important attractions in the extensive palace grounds. With 9 stops and an informative audio guide in 7 languages, it is ideal for visitors who want to explore Schönbrunn in a relaxed and barrier-free manner.

How do I get to Schönbrunn Palace?

Schönbrunn Palace is located in the west of Vienna and is easily accessible by public transport:

• Subway: U4 to “Schönbrunn” station – just a few minutes' walk to the main entrance.
• Tram: Lines 10 and 60 to “Schloss Schönbrunn”
• Bus: Line 10A to “Schloss Schönbrunn”

Alternatively, you can take the HOP ON HOP OFF buses from Vienna Sightseeing and simply get off at stop no. 30. If you have the Vienna City Card, you can also benefit from discounts on admission and free travel on public transport.