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Vienna Central Cemetery: A City of the Dead

Explore Vienna's City of the Dead: A sprawling cemetery with famous graves, stunning architecture, and surprising natural beauty in Simmering.

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The Vienna Central Cemetery (Zentralfriedhof) is one of the largest cemeteries in the world, offering a fascinating blend of history, architecture, and natural beauty. It's the final resting place of numerous famous composers, artists, and Austrian presidents, making it a unique cultural landmark and a peaceful escape from the bustling city.

A brief summary to Central Cemetery

  • Monday 7 am-6 pm
  • Tuesday 7 am-6 pm
  • Wednesday 7 am-6 pm
  • Thursday 7 am-6 pm
  • Friday 7 am-6 pm
  • Saturday 7 am-6 pm
  • Sunday 7 am-6 pm

Local tips

  • Pick up a map at Gate 2 to help navigate the vast cemetery and locate specific graves.
  • Consider taking the cemetery bus (Route 106) to see the highlights if you have limited time or mobility.
  • Visit the Kurkonditorei Oberlaa near Gate 2 for coffee and cake, a classic Viennese tradition.
  • Check the opening hours, which vary depending on the season.
  • Look for the wildlife! The cemetery is home to deer, hamsters, and many species of birds.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From central Vienna, the most popular and convenient way to reach the Central Cemetery is by taking Tram 71 to the 'Zentralfriedhof 2. Tor' (Gate 2) stop, which is directly in front of the main entrance. Tram 71 can be boarded from several central locations, including Schottentor, Oper/Karlsplatz, and Schwarzenbergplatz. Alternatively, take the U3 subway line to its final stop, Simmering, and then transfer to Tram 71 or 11. A single Vienna transport ticket costs €2.40 [approximated based on online resources as of today's date].

  • Walking

    While not recommended as the sole means of reaching the Central Cemetery from central Vienna due to the distance, walking is a pleasant option if you are already in the Simmering district. From the Simmering U3 station, it's approximately a 2-kilometer (1.2-mile) walk to the main entrance (Gate 2). Follow Simmeringer Hauptstraße southeast; the cemetery will be on your left. There are no tolls or specific access fees for walking.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    A taxi or ride-sharing service from central Vienna to the Central Cemetery (main entrance at Gate 2) typically costs between €25 and €40, depending on traffic and the specific starting point. The journey usually takes 20-30 minutes. There are no tolls on this route.

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Discover more about Central Cemetery

Vienna's Central Cemetery, opened in 1874, is more than just a burial ground; it's a sprawling park-like environment encompassing approximately 2.5 square kilometers. Conceived to address Vienna's growing population in the late 19th century, the cemetery has become a unique institution, blending Viennese culture, history, and a touch of the macabre. The cemetery is the final resting place for over three million people, including luminaries such as Beethoven, Brahms, Schubert, and Strauss, many of whom were moved here to be honored. Their impressive graves and memorials, along with those of other notable figures like Falco and Hedy Lamarr, draw visitors from around the world. A stroll along the main avenue leads to the Friedhofskirche zum heiligen Karl Borromäus (Church of St. Charles Borromeo), a stunning Art Nouveau church built in the early 20th century. The Zentralfriedhof is also a haven for nature, with over 17,000 trees, open parkland, and even bee hives. It's not uncommon to spot deer or other wildlife while wandering the grounds. The cemetery also features different sections for various religious denominations, including Jewish, Protestant, Coptic Orthodox, and even a Buddhist cemetery with a stupa. Exploring the old Jewish section, particularly near Gate 1, reveals architecturally interesting monuments and graves, some with a haunting, Gothic aesthetic. Beyond the famous graves, the Vienna Central Cemetery offers themed tours, audio guides, and even a cemetery bus for those who prefer a less strenuous exploration. It's a place where the Viennese come to reflect, stroll, and connect with nature, making it a truly unique and essential part of the city's cultural landscape.

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