Definitive guide to visit Schönbrunn Palace
Support when you need it
Customer service to help you with all your needs from 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Fast and online booking
Choose the best option for your needs and preferences and avoid the lines.
Top attraction in Vienna
Discover Vienna’s most famous palace and step into centuries of imperial history.
A short introduction to visit Schönbrunn Palace Vienna
Schönbrunn Palace is one of Vienna’s most iconic landmarks and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Once the summer residence of the Habsburgs, the palace combines imperial history, stunning Baroque architecture, and vast gardens. Today, it stands as one of Austria’s most visited attractions, drawing millions of visitors every year.
Inside the Schönbrunn Palace, you’ll find beautifully decorated rooms, halls filled with historic charm, and exhibitions that tell the story of Austrian royalty. Outside, the magnificent Schönbrunn Palace Gardens provide a perfect setting for a leisurely walk, offering breathtaking views from the Gloriette and unique highlights such as the Palm House and Neptune Fountain.
Whether you’re a history enthusiast, an architecture lover, or a casual traveler, a visit to Schönbrunn Palace Vienna is an absolute must.
Quick information to visit Schönbrunn Palace
Why visit Schönbrunn Palace?
Schönbrunn Palace is not only Vienna’s top attraction but also one of the most important cultural sites in Europe. Here are the main reasons why this Baroque masterpiece should be on your itinerary:
1. Imperial History and Splendor
Explore the grand state rooms, lavishly decorated halls, and the private apartments of Empress Maria Theresa and Emperor Franz Joseph.
2. UNESCO World Heritage Site
Recognized for its outstanding universal value, the palace and gardens showcase Austria’s imperial legacy.
3. Beautiful Gardens and Landscapes
The vast Schönbrunn Palace Gardens include fountains, statues, flowerbeds, the Maze, and the famous Gloriette with panoramic views of Vienna.
4. Family-Friendly Attractions
Visit the Schönbrunn Zoo, the oldest zoo in the world, and enjoy kid-friendly areas in the gardens.
5. Cultural Experiences
Attend concerts, exhibitions, and seasonal events hosted inside the palace and grounds.
Plan your visit to Schönbrunn Palace
Planning your visit in advance will help you make the most of your day at Schönbrunn. Consider the following:
Schönbrunn Palace Opening Hours
Schönbrunn Palace is open year-round, with seasonal variations:
April to June: 8:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.
July to August: 8:30 a.m. – 6:30 p.m.
September to October: 8:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.
November to March: 8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
The gardens generally open at 6:30 a.m. and close between 5:30 p.m. and 9:00 p.m., depending on the season.
Schönbrunn Palace Directions
Schönbrunn Palace is open year-round, with seasonal variations:
April to June: 8:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.
July to August: 8:30 a.m. – 6:30 p.m.
September to October: 8:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.
November to March: 8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
The gardens generally open at 6:30 a.m. and close between 5:30 p.m. and 9:00 p.m., depending on the season.
How long to visit Schönbrunn Palace?
To fully enjoy the palace and gardens, plan at least 3 to 4 hours. If you want to explore in more detail, including the zoo and the Gloriette viewpoint, consider setting aside half a day.
When is the Best Time to Visit Schönbrunn Palace?
Best day of the week: Weekdays (Tuesday to Thursday) are less crowded. Avoid weekends and holidays.
Best hour to visit: Arrive early in the morning at 8:30 a.m. to enjoy the palace before large tour groups.
Best season to visit: Spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October) offer pleasant weather and fewer tourists. Summer is beautiful but busier, while winter brings a special charm with fewer crowds and festive markets.
Schönbrunn Palace: What to See
A visit to Schönbrunn Palace Vienna is more than just a tour inside an imperial residence — it is a full experience that combines history, architecture, gardens, and cultural highlights. These are the main attractions you should not miss:
Imperial Apartments – Walk through the lavishly decorated rooms once occupied by Emperor Franz Joseph and Empress Elisabeth (Sisi). Each chamber reflects the grandeur of Habsburg life.
The Great Gallery – An impressive ballroom used for imperial banquets and state receptions, adorned with chandeliers, frescoes, and gilded details.
Hall of Mirrors – Famous for its elegance and the place where Mozart performed as a child prodigy.
The Schönbrunn Palace Gardens – Covering more than 160 hectares, the gardens are free to explore and include fountains, sculptures, and tree-lined avenues.
The Gloriette – Located on a hill overlooking the gardens, it offers one of the best panoramic views of Vienna.
Palm House – A stunning 19th-century glasshouse filled with exotic plants from around the world.
Maze & Labyrinth – Fun for families, with winding paths and playful activities.
Neptune Fountain – A monumental fountain that serves as the perfect backdrop to the Gloriette.
Schönbrunn Zoo – The oldest zoo in the world, founded in 1752, home to giant pandas and over 700 animal species.
Whether you have just a few hours or a full day, these highlights ensure your visit to Schönbrunn Palace is unforgettable.
Best ways to visit Schönbrunn Palace
The best way to visit Schönbrunn Palace is to plan ahead and book your tickets online in advance. By doing so, you can avoid the long queues that often form at this popular attraction and make the most of your time exploring the palace and gardens. Whether you prefer a self-guided entry ticket, a more complete pass with multiple inclusions, or a guided tour that immerses you in history, there’s an option for every type of traveler.
Visiting early in the morning or later in the afternoon is recommended to experience a more peaceful atmosphere and enjoy the highlights without the largest crowds. Below, you’ll find the main ticket options available to ensure a smooth and memorable visit.
Frequently Asked Questions about Visiting Schönbrunn Palace
Yes, it is highly recommended. Schönbrunn Palace is one of the most visited sites in Vienna, and tickets often sell out during peak seasons. Booking online guarantees your entry and preferred time slot.
The Classic Pass is the most complete option, as it includes access to the palace rooms, the gardens, and additional highlights such as the Maze, Labyrinth, and the Gloriette viewpoint.
For a basic visit of the palace interiors, plan at least 1.5 to 2 hours. If you want to explore the gardens and extra attractions, allow half a day or more.
Absolutely. A guided tour provides expert insights into the history of the Habsburg dynasty, the architecture, and the symbolism behind many of the rooms and artworks. It’s the best choice if you want a deeper cultural experience.
Yes, the palace and gardens are family-friendly. Children particularly enjoy the Maze and Labyrinth as well as the Schönbrunn Zoo, the oldest zoo in the world.
Other things to do in Vienna
Belvedere Palace tickets >
Hofburg Palace tickets >
Vienna State Opera tickets >
St Stephen’s Cathedral tickets >