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Hofburg: Vienna's Imperial Heart

Explore the Hofburg Palace in Vienna, a historic imperial residence with museums, art, and the famous Spanish Riding School.

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The Hofburg Palace, a sprawling complex in the heart of Vienna, served as the winter residence of the Habsburg emperors for over 600 years. Today, it houses museums, art galleries, the Austrian president's office, and the Spanish Riding School.

A brief summary to Hofburg

  • Monday 8 am-6 pm
  • Tuesday 8 am-6 pm
  • Wednesday 8 am-6 pm
  • Thursday 8 am-6 pm
  • Friday 8 am-6 pm
  • Saturday 8 am-6 pm
  • Sunday 8 am-6 pm

Local tips

  • Purchase tickets online in advance to save time and avoid potential queues, especially during peak season.
  • Visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the largest crowds.
  • Allow at least 2-4 hours to explore the main highlights of the Hofburg, including the museums and Imperial Apartments.
  • Check the schedule for the Spanish Riding School's training sessions or performances to see the Lipizzaner stallions.
  • Consider purchasing a combo ticket, such as the Sisi Ticket, for access to multiple attractions related to Empress Elisabeth, including Schönbrunn Palace and the Imperial Furniture Collection.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Stephansplatz, take the U3 subway line to Herrengasse station. The Hofburg Palace is a short 3-minute walk from there. Alternatively, take tram lines 1, 2, D, or J to the Burgring stop. From there, it's a brief walk to the palace entrance. A single Vienna public transport ticket costs €3.

  • Walking

    From the Vienna State Opera, walk north along Kärntner Straße, then turn left onto Josefsplatz. Continue straight to reach the Hofburg Palace entrance at Michaelerplatz. The walk is approximately 10-15 minutes. This route allows you to see some of Vienna's iconic streets and architecture.

  • Taxi

    From Vienna City Hall, a taxi ride to the Hofburg Palace takes approximately 5 minutes. Taxi stands are available near the City Hall. The estimated fare for this short trip is between €5-€7, with a base fare of €3.80 during the day and €4.30 at night, plus per kilometer charges.

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Discover more about Hofburg

The Hofburg Palace, located in the center of Vienna, is a vast complex of buildings that has evolved over centuries, starting in the 13th century. It was the winter residence of the Habsburg emperors and the center of their power. From the 15th century, it was the seat of the Holy Roman Empire emperors, and later, the emperors of Austria until 1918. Today, the Hofburg is a multifaceted hub, housing museums like the Sisi Museum, the Imperial Apartments, and the Silver Collection, as well as the office of the Austrian Federal President. The palace complex showcases a range of architectural styles, reflecting its long history of expansions and renovations. These include Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque elements. Key highlights include the Schweizerhof (Swiss Courtyard), the Burgkapelle (Palace Chapel) where the Vienna Boys' Choir performs, the Spanish Riding School with its Lipizzaner stallions, and the Austrian National Library. Visitors can explore the opulent Imperial Apartments, delve into the life of Empress Sisi at the Sisi Museum, and admire the Imperial Silver Collection. The Hofburg also hosts events and conferences, blending its imperial past with modern functions. Wandering through the courtyards and Heldenplatz (Heroes' Square) offers a glimpse into Austria's rich history and culture.

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