Schönbrunn Palace Park travel guide

Schönbrunn Palace Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is steeped in rich history. The park was initially a hunting ground for the Habsburg Monarchy in the 16th century.

In the late 17th century, Emperor Leopold I commissioned the first Schönbrunn Palace as a grand Baroque residence. However, the palace we see today was largely shaped by Maria Theresa in the mid-18th century, who transformed it into a Rococo summer palace.

The park opened to the public around 1779, under the rule of Joseph II, making it one of the earliest public parks in the world.

Over the years, the park has expanded and undergone various changes. It boasts a myriad of attractions including the oldest zoo in the world, the Tiergarten Schönbrunn, established in 1752, the Gloriette, a grand neoclassical arch that offers panoramic views of Vienna, and the stunning Palm House, a large greenhouse that hosts a variety of exotic plants.

Schönbrunn Palace Park is home to a number of unique features. The Gloriette, an imposing structure situated on a hill, offers a panoramic view of Vienna. The Orangery, one of the longest in the world, houses exotic plants throughout the year. The park also contains a variety of gardens, including a maze and labyrinth, the Crown Prince Garden, and the Japanese Garden. The Palm House, the largest of its kind on the European continent, is home to plants from around the world, including rare tropical and subtropical species.

The park boasts the oldest zoo in the world, Tiergarten Schönbrunn, which is still in operation and hosts a variety of animals. For children, there's the Children’s Museum, where they can learn about the life of the imperial children. The Desert Experience House showcases desert flora and fauna, providing a contrast to the lush gardens. The park's Roman Ruin, a set of artificial Roman ruins, adds a touch of antiquity to the landscape. The park also features a number of statues and monuments, including the Obelisk Fountain and the Monument of Empress Maria Theresa.

Vienna is a perfect holiday destination for those who crave a mix of history, culture, and modern amenities. With its distinct architecture, famous museums, and delicious culinary scene, Vienna offers something for everyone.

Take a stroll through the charming streets and alleys to discover hidden gems and enjoy the local atmosphere. Visit this popular landmark in Vienna and immerse yourself in the city's rich history and culture at top attractions, including the remarkable Schönbrunn Palace, St. Stephen's Cathedral, Belvedere Palace, Hofburg, and Viennese Giant Ferris Wheel.

Whether you're looking to indulge in shopping or explore the nightlife, Vienna has it all. Don't forget to sample the delicious cuisine, from traditional dishes to modern fusion.

Experience the best of both worlds in Vienna, a place where the past meets the present, and you'll create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

Click the travel guides below to learn more and get ready to make unforgettable memories in Austria!

Schönbrunn Palace Park is conveniently accessible by various transportation options in Vienna, Austria. If you're flying in, Vienna International Airport is approximately 13.3 miles (21.4 km) away from Vienna. From there, you can easily reach Schönbrunn Palace Park by taxi or shuttle.

For those already in Vienna, buses, taxis, and walking are viable options to reach Schönbrunn Palace Park, which is located 3.5 miles (5.6 km) from the city center. You can also rent a car and drive to Schönbrunn Palace Park, providing flexibility to explore at your leisure. Its exact address is Schönbrunner Schloßstraße 47, 1130 Wien, Austria.

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

The best time to explore Schönbrunn Palace Park is during the late spring and summer months (May to September) when the weather is pleasant, and the park's flora is in full bloom, offering a vibrant array of colors. This period also coincides with the palace’s peak season, so expect larger crowds, particularly during July and August. For a more peaceful experience, consider visiting early in the morning or late in the afternoon. Autumn (October and November) also provides a uniquely beautiful experience as the leaves change color, although the weather can be a bit unpredictable. The park hosts several events throughout the year, such as the Easter Market in April and the Christmas Market in November and December, which add a festive atmosphere to your visit. Regardless, Schönbrunn Palace Park is open year-round, allowing you to experience its beauty in every season.

With a rental car, discovering the popular Schönbrunn Palace Park and Austria's captivating landscapes becomes a breeze, allowing you to explore at your own pace. Upon arrival, international travelers can choose from 3 reputable rental car companies near Vienna International Airport and the city of Vienna, making transportation seamless and efficient.

Rental car companies in Austria cater to a variety of preferences, offering vehicles ranging from compact and midsize to premium, estate, and even camper vans or convertibles. To select the perfect ride, consider your itinerary and specific travel plans in Vienna and beyond.

Conveniently explore Schönbrunn Palace Park and plenty more captivating attractions in Vienna by staying at a top-rated hotel in the center of the city. With comfortable accommodations and easy access to Schönbrunn Palace Park and other notable landmarks, wake up well-rested every day, ready to explore all that Vienna has to offer.

Discover the best hotels for visiting Schönbrunn Palace Park below.

Aside from Schönbrunn Palace Park, Vienna is home to numerous other top attractions waiting to be explored. From museums and architectural masterpieces to sculptures and natural wonders, the city offers a diverse range of sights to behold. For the ultimate sightseeing tour around Vienna, there are a number of attractions every itinerary should include, namely Schönbrunn Palace, St. Stephen's Cathedral, and Belvedere Palace.

Schönbrunn Palace is a bucket-list museum and top attraction in Vienna, drawing numerous travelers and locals every year. As evident by its average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 140,000 reviews, this attraction is a popular place to visit for anyone with time to spend in the city. The exact address of Schönbrunn Palace is Schönbrunner Schloßstraße 47, 1130 Wien, Austria.

Another appreciated attraction in Vienna is St. Stephen's Cathedral. Like Schönbrunn Palace, this is one of the most popular sites to visit in the city. With an impressive average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars among 100,000 visitors, it’s also one of the highest-rated. The exact address of this church is Stephansplatz 3, 1010 Wien, Austria.

Belvedere Palace is also a clear favorite among travelers seeking to experience the uniqueness of Vienna. This museum and top attraction in Vienna has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 67,000 visitors. This attraction is located at the address of Prinz-Eugen-Straße 27, 1030 Wien, Austria.

Check out our full list of top attractions in the city of Vienna below.