Kreuzenstein Castle, Vienna Travel Guide

4.5 (5092)

Explore a stunning reconstructed medieval castle near Vienna, featuring impressive architecture and a vast weapons collection.

Home
Travel Guides
Austria
Vienna
Kreuzenstein Castle

Kreuzenstein Castle, near Vienna, is a reconstructed medieval castle with a rich history. Originally built in the 12th century, it was destroyed during the Thirty Years' War and rebuilt in the 19th century by Count Wilczek using salvaged medieval elements from across Europe. Today, it serves as a museum and a stunning example of Romanesque-Gothic architecture.

A brief summary to Kreuzenstein Castle

Kreuzensteiner Str. 2100, Leobendorf, 2100, AT
Click to display
Click to display

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Kreuzenstein Castle.

Tours are primarily in German, so consider purchasing an English brochure for a better understanding.
Bring cash, as card payments are not always accepted for admission.
Check the official website for the most up-to-date tour schedules and seasonal hours.
Allow ample time for travel from Vienna, as public transport involves a train ride and a walk.
Visit on a day other than Monday to also enjoy the falconry show and castle tavern.

Do you manage this location?

Take control to get all the benefits, like improved information, better appearance, and stronger visibility across AI-powered discovery. Learn more

Activate your presence

Other nearby places you may find interesting

The closest places of the same kind, if this one is not quite what you had in mind.

Hofburg

Prater

Schmetterlinghaus

Burggarten

Heldenplatz

Explore Kreuzenstein Castle on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Kreuzenstein Castle, mapped for you.

Getting There

Public Transport

From Vienna, take the S3 or S4 train from Wien Praterstern or Wien Hauptbahnhof to Leobendorf-Burg Kreuzenstein station. The train journey takes approximately 30-45 minutes. From the Leobendorf-Burg Kreuzenstein station, it's about a 35-45 minute walk uphill to the castle. Follow Stockerauer Strasse and Kreuzensteiner Strasse. The path is signposted. Cost: Train ticket from Vienna to Leobendorf-Burg Kreuzenstein typically costs €4-€7.
Taxi

From Vienna city center, a taxi or ride-sharing service to Kreuzenstein Castle takes approximately 25-30 minutes. Cost: Expect to pay around €30-€40 for a one-way taxi ride from Vienna.
Driving

Kreuzenstein Castle is easily accessible by car, about 30 minutes from Vienna. Head towards Korneuburg and then Leobendorf. The castle is visible from a distance. Follow Burggasse (or Kreuzensteiner Strasse) uphill to the castle parking lot. Cost: Parking is available at the castle.

Discover more about Kreuzenstein Castle

Kreuzenstein Castle, located just north of Vienna in Leobendorf, Lower Austria, presents a captivating blend of history and architectural ingenuity. The castle's story dates back to the 12th century when it was first erected by the Counts of Formbach. Over the centuries, it passed through various hands, including the Habsburgs, and witnessed numerous historical events.In 1645, during the Thirty Years' War, the castle was destroyed by Swedish troops, leaving it in ruins for centuries. However, in the 19th century, Count Johann Nepomuk Wilczek, driven by a passion for history and armed with wealth from his Silesian coal mines, embarked on an ambitious reconstruction project. Rather than simply rebuilding Kreuzenstein, Wilczek incorporated salvaged medieval elements from across Europe, creating a unique and authentic-looking castle.Today, Kreuzenstein Castle stands as a testament to Wilczek's vision and a popular tourist destination. Visitors can explore the castle's magnificent rooms and halls, marvel at the extensive weapons collection (one of Europe's largest private collections), and delve into medieval life through guided tours. The castle also offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Note that tours are typically in German, though English brochures are often available. Also, be sure to bring cash, as card payments are not typically accepted.The castle is open daily from April 1st to November 1st, with tours every hour.