St. Stephen's Cathedral travel guide

St Stephen's Cathedral, also known as Stephansdom, is a significant landmark in Vienna's history.

Construction began in the 12th century, with the cathedral's first form being a Romanesque church, later expanded with Gothic elements. The cathedral's iconic South Tower, also known as 'Steffl', was completed in 1433, standing at a staggering 136 meters high. It also houses the Pummerin, the second-largest free swinging church bell in Europe.

The cathedral suffered significant damage during World War II, but the resilience of the Viennese saw it restored to its former glory. Today, St Stephen's Cathedral is not just a place of worship; it's a symbol of Vienna's rich history and a testament to the city's architectural prowess. With its intricate stonework, stunning stained glass windows, and ornate interiors, the cathedral is a must-visit for all history and architecture enthusiasts.

St Stephen's Cathedral, or Stephansdom, is known for its stunning architectural mix of Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque styles. The Cathedral's South Tower, standing at 136 meters, is not just a signature feature of Vienna's skyline but also offers breathtaking views of the city. The North Tower, though incomplete, houses the Pummerin, the second-largest free-swinging chimed church bell in Europe.

The Cathedral's roof, covered by 230,000 glazed tiles, forms a mosaic of the Habsburgs' double-headed eagle and the Vienna's coat of arms, which can be seen for miles around. Inside the Cathedral, the stone pulpit, carved by Anton Pilgram, is a masterpiece of late Gothic sculpture. Its details include a self-portrait of the sculptor peering out of a window. The Cathedral’s catacombs serve as the final resting place for many Viennese notables, including several Habsburgs. Lastly, the Cathedral's treasury holds several sacred artifacts and liturgical robes, including a piece of the tablecloth from the Last Supper.

Discover St. Stephen's Cathedral, a prime feature of Vienna, in the vibrant Innere Stadt. St. Stephen's Cathedral is situated at Stephansplatz 3, 1010 Wien, Austria, just a short distance from Time Travel Vienna and House of Music, making it a perfect addition to your itinerary.

In the vicinity of St. Stephen's Cathedral, 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. Stephen's Cathedral. Explore travel trips and ideas on this city from the comprehensive Vienna travel guide for an unforgettable adventure.

St. Stephen's Cathedral 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 11.6 miles (18.7 km) away from the city center. From there, you can easily reach St. Stephen's Cathedral by taxi or shuttle.

Its exact address is Stephansplatz 3, 1010 Wien, Austria.

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

The best time to explore St Stephen's Cathedral is during the shoulder seasons of spring (April to June) and fall (September to November). During these periods, the weather in Vienna is generally pleasant and the crowds are significantly fewer, allowing for a more leisurely exploration of the cathedral's architectural wonders. The cathedral also sparkles under the warm sunlight of these seasons, enhancing its gothic beauty. If you don't mind the winter chill, visiting in December can be magical when the cathedral is surrounded by the charm of Vienna's Christmas markets. The Cathedral also hosts special concerts during the Advent season which add to the festive atmosphere. Regardless of the season, visit early in the day to beat the crowds. On weekdays, the cathedral opens at 6am, offering a tranquil experience before the city wakes up. If you're interested in the cathedral's rich history, guided tours are available throughout the year. Plan your visit well to make the most of your time at this iconic landmark.

To truly enjoy your visit to St. Stephen's Cathedral, joining a guided tour of this renowned church in Vienna is highly recommended. As one of Austria's most iconic attractions, St. Stephen's Cathedral 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 St. Stephen's Cathedral starting at just 7.49 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 St. Stephen's Cathedral, 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 St. Stephen's Cathedral.

Keep reading to discover the best options for experiencing this iconic church 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 St. Stephen's Cathedral 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. Stephen's Cathedral, 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. Stephen's Cathedral, Vienna boasts plenty more landmarks that make every trip unforgettable. From museum 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 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, 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.