Schönbrunn Palace travel guide

Schönbrunn Palace, an iconic landmark in Vienna, has a rich history dating back to the Middle Ages. Originally, the site was a hunting ground until the 16th century, when it was bought by Emperor Maximilian II.

In 1696, Emperor Leopold I gifted the estate to his son, Joseph I, who commissioned a palatial hunting lodge that was later transformed into the present-day palace by Maria Theresa in the mid-18th century.

The palace was the summer residence of the Habsburgs until 1918. With the fall of the Habsburg monarchy at the end of World War I, the newly founded Austrian Republic became the owner of Schönbrunn Palace and preserved it as a museum.

Today, Schönbrunn Palace is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, attracting millions of visitors annually with its lavish Baroque architecture, beautifully maintained gardens, and the world's oldest operating zoo.

Schönbrunn Palace is renowned for its beautiful Baroque architecture, a style that was popular during the Habsburg Monarchy. However, the most unique feature is perhaps its expansive garden landscape, which is considered to be one of the most important examples of designed landscapes in the world. The palace garden includes the Tiergarten, the oldest existing zoo in the world. Another point of interest is the Gloriette, a grand structure perched atop a hill, offering panoramic views of Vienna. Inside the palace, the Hall of Mirrors, where Mozart performed at the age of six, stands out for its historical significance. The Chinese Cabinets, with their intricate chinoiserie and lacquer panels, and the opulent Great Gallery, used for court functions, also add to the Palace's uniqueness. The Palm House is another key feature, housing exotic plants in a large, steel and glass structure. Schönbrunn Palace's blend of historical significance, architectural splendor, and natural beauty makes it a truly unique attraction.

Discover Schönbrunn Palace, a prime feature of Vienna, in the vibrant Hietzing. Schönbrunn Palace is situated at Schönbrunner Schloßstraße 47, 1130 Wien, Austria, just a short distance from Schönbrunn Palace Park and Technical Museum Vienna, making it a perfect addition to your itinerary.

In the vicinity of Schönbrunn Palace, 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 Schönbrunn Palace. Explore travel trips and ideas on this city from the comprehensive Vienna travel guide for an unforgettable adventure.

Schönbrunn Palace 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 13.3 miles (21.4 km) away from the city center. From there, you can easily reach Schönbrunn Palace by taxi or shuttle.

For those already in Vienna, buses, taxis, and walking are viable options to reach Schönbrunn Palace, which is located 3.2 miles (5.1 km) from the city center. Its exact address is Schönbrunner Schloßstraße 47, 1130 Wien, Austria.

With your transportation plans sorted, get ready for an unforgettable experience at Schönbrunn Palace!

The best time to explore Schönbrunn Palace is during spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) when Vienna's weather is pleasantly mild. These seasons offer a comfortable climate for wandering through the Palace's vast gardens in full bloom or rich autumn hues. Moreover, crowds are usually smaller during these periods, allowing for a more serene and intimate exploration of the Palace. The Palace hosts its annual Easter Market in spring, offering a unique cultural experience with traditional Austrian crafts, food, and music. In autumn, the Apple Strudel Show is a must-see, where you can witness the making of this iconic Austrian dessert in the Palace's court bakery. Although beautiful throughout the year, a visit during the Christmas season is also special, with the Palace grounds transformed into a magical Christmas market. Regardless of the time of the year, we recommend visiting early in the day to avoid peak tourist times. This way, you can fully appreciate the grandeur and history of Schönbrunn Palace at your own pace.

To truly enjoy your visit to Schönbrunn Palace, joining a guided tour of this renowned palace in Vienna is highly recommended. As one of Austria's most iconic attractions, Schönbrunn Palace draws visitors from across the globe, often leading to long queues and limited availability.

Booking a tour in advance allows you to skip the lines and ensures a smooth, enjoyable experience. With the biggest selection of tours and tickets in Vienna, you’re sure to find an option that fits your schedule and preferences.

Find the best and most popular tours and tickets to Schönbrunn Palace starting at just 15.5 EUR below. Enjoy benefits like free cancellation and 24/7 customer support for added convenience.

If you're looking for an effortless way to explore Schönbrunn Palace, perfectly planned travel packages to Vienna make it easy and enjoyable, all while keeping costs manageable. With everything seamlessly arranged for your trip to Vienna, you can simply pack your bags and look forward to exploring Schönbrunn Palace.

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

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 Schönbrunn Palace 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 Schönbrunn Palace, 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 Schönbrunn Palace, Vienna boasts plenty more landmarks that make every trip unforgettable. From church to park, 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 St. Stephen's Cathedral, located at Stephansplatz 3, 1010 Wien, Austria. This well-known church enhances your time in the city.

Whether you plan a short visit or take time to explore fully, Belvedere Palace is worth seeing when you're in Vienna. It's a popular museum that’s perfect for rounding out your itinerary. You’ll find it at Prinz-Eugen-Straße 27, 1030 Wien, Austria.

For an unforgettable addition to your itinerary, a visit to Schönbrunn Palace Park completes any trip to Vienna. This park draws visitors with its unique appeal, making it an essential stop on your journey. Located at Schönbrunner Schloßstraße 47, 1130 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.