The Habsburgs' golden summer palace and its sweeping Baroque gardens, where a six-year-old Mozart once performed for the empress. Everything you need before you go, including which tour to choose.
Schönbrunn was rebuilt in the 18th century as the Habsburgs' summer residence, a Baroque statement to rival Versailles. Empress Maria Theresa made it the heart of court life; a six-year-old Mozart played for her in the Hall of Mirrors, and centuries later Emperor Franz Joseph was born and died within its walls. Its 1,441 rooms and formal gardens earned it UNESCO World Heritage status.
The Imperial Tour takes in 22 state rooms, including Franz Joseph's apartments. The Grand Tour adds 18 more — Maria Theresa's lavish rooms and the ceremonial halls. Beyond the palace, the gardens climb to the Gloriette colonnade with its view back over Vienna, past the Neptune Fountain, the maze and the world's oldest zoo.
Book a timed palace ticket and decide between the Imperial and Grand Tour in advance — the gardens themselves are free to wander. The first morning slots are calmest. The palace is an easy U-Bahn ride from the centre. Allow around three hours for the state rooms and the gardens together, more if you climb to the Gloriette.
Pair Schönbrunn with the Hofburg, the Belvedere and a coffee house or two on our complete Vienna guide — or let the AI build your day-by-day itinerary.
Vienna City Guide