St. Charles's Church travel guide

Karlskirche, Vienna's most outstanding baroque church, lays claim to a fascinating history dating back to the early 18th century. Commissioned by Emperor Charles VI, the church was designed by the famous architect Johann Bernhard Fischer von Erlach as a votive offering after the city was spared from the 1713 plague epidemic.

The church's unique fusion of architectural styles reflects the grandeur of Rome and the artistic influences of the Habsburg Empire. The construction started in 1716 and was completed in 1737, following the death of Johann Bernhard Fischer von Erlach, under the supervision of his son, Joseph Emanuel.

The church's most notable features include its twin columns, inspired by Trajan's Column in Rome, and a magnificent dome. The columns depict scenes from the life of St. Charles Borromeo, to whom the church is dedicated. Over the centuries, Karlskirche has stood as an iconic symbol of Vienna's rich cultural and historical heritage.

Discover St. Charles's Church, a prime feature of Vienna. St. Charles's Church is situated at Karlskirche, Karlsplatz 10, 1040 Wien, Austria, just a short distance from Vienna Music Society and Vienna State Opera, making it a perfect addition to your itinerary.

In the vicinity of St. Charles's Church, various dining and shopping options await, alongside a lively atmosphere that captures the essence of local life. This location serves as a perfect starting point or a key highlight during your exploration of Vienna, a city in Austria rich with cultural and adventurous activities.

When planning your trip, timing is key. Discover the best time to visit Vienna to fully enjoy the seasonal charm of St. Charles's Church. Explore travel trips and ideas on this city from the comprehensive Vienna travel guide for an unforgettable adventure.

St. Charles's Church is conveniently accessible by various transportation options in Vienna, Austria. If you're flying in or planning to book a flight to Vienna, Vienna International Airport is approximately 11.3 miles (18.2 km) away from the city center. From there, you can easily reach St. Charles's Church by taxi or shuttle.

For those already in Vienna, buses, taxis, and walking are viable options to reach St. Charles's Church, which is located 0.7 miles (1.1 km) from the city center. Its exact address is Karlskirche, Karlsplatz 10, 1040 Wien, Austria.

With your transportation plans sorted, get ready for an unforgettable experience at St. Charles's Church!

With everything seamlessly arranged for your trip to Vienna, you can simply pack your bags and look forward to exploring St. Charles's Church.

Keep reading to discover the best options for experiencing this iconic church in Austria.

The best time to explore Karlskirche, a Baroque jewel in Vienna, is during the spring months of April and May, or in the fall from September to October. These seasons offer mild weather, making it comfortable to admire the church's architectural beauty and the panoramic views of Vienna from the church's dome. Moreover, these periods are off-peak tourist seasons, ensuring lesser crowds and a more peaceful experience. A special event to consider is the Karlskirche concert series, particularly the Vivaldi Four Seasons performances, which run all year round. However, if you're visiting in winter, the Christmas market held in front of the church adds a festive charm to your visit. Whatever time you choose to visit, ensure to check the church's opening hours and concert schedules to plan your visit effectively.

Upon arriving at Vienna International Airport, you’ll find 3 reputable rental car companies conveniently situated near the city of Vienna.

Click 'See More' to unlock other affordable car rental options in Vienna.

Choosing the right accommodation near St. Charles's Church from the widest selection of hotels and places to stay in Vienna can truly make all the difference in your trip. Not only will you be within a comfortable distance from St. Charles's Church, but you’ll also enjoy the best rates available, backed by 24/7 customer service and glowing reviews.

To help you make the most of your visit, we’ve curated a handpicked list of top-rated hotels nearby.

Beyond St. Charles's Church, Vienna boasts plenty more landmarks that make every trip unforgettable. From museum to museum, the top attractions in Vienna offer experiences you won’t want to miss.

One of the most notable attractions to visit while in Vienna is Schönbrunn Palace, located at Schönbrunner Schloßstraße 47, 1130 Wien, Austria. This well-known museum enhances your time in the city.

Whether you plan a short visit or take time to explore fully, St. Stephen's Cathedral is worth seeing when you're in Vienna. It's a popular church that’s perfect for rounding out your itinerary. You’ll find it at Stephansplatz 3, 1010 Wien, Austria.

For an unforgettable addition to your itinerary, a visit to Belvedere Palace completes any trip to Vienna. This museum draws visitors with its unique appeal, making it an essential stop on your journey. Located at Prinz-Eugen-Straße 27, 1030 Wien, Austria, its surroundings offer plenty of reasons to linger a little longer.

The city's top sights offer a wide variety of experiences to make your trip truly memorable. Check out the full list of top attractions in Vienna below to discover even more incredible places to explore.