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Schönbrunn Palace: Vienna's Imperial Jewel

Explore Vienna's magnificent Schönbrunn Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and immerse yourself in the opulent world of the Habsburg emperors.

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Schönbrunn Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a stunning baroque palace in Vienna, Austria. Originally a hunting lodge, it became the summer residence of the Habsburg monarchs, showcasing opulent architecture, lavish interiors, and extensive gardens with fountains and statues. Today, it stands as a testament to Austrian history and imperial grandeur.

A brief summary to Schönbrunn Palace

Local tips

  • Purchase tickets online in advance to avoid long queues, especially during peak season.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking, both inside the palace and in the gardens.
  • Allocate at least half a day to fully explore the palace and its extensive gardens.
  • Photography is not permitted inside the palace, but you can take photos for non-commercial purposes in the Palace Park free of charge.
  • Consider visiting between mid-March and early November to enjoy all the seasonal attractions in the gardens.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    Schönbrunn Palace is easily accessible via Vienna's efficient public transport system. The U4 metro line stops directly at the 'Schönbrunn' station, a few minutes' walk from the palace entrance. Use the 'Grünbergstraße' exit. Tram lines 10 and 60, as well as bus 10A, also stop at the 'Schloss Schönbrunn' station, near the main entrance. A single ticket for public transport costs €2.40. A 24-hour pass is available for €8.00.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are readily available throughout Vienna. A taxi ride from Vienna City Center to Schönbrunn Palace typically takes around 11 minutes and costs approximately €12-€16. Uber X has an initial fare of €1.00, plus €0.65 per km and €0.25 per minute, with a minimum fare of €3.00. Keep in mind that fares may vary depending on traffic and demand.

  • Walking

    While it's a longer journey, walking to Schönbrunn Palace from Vienna City Center is possible. The distance is approximately 7 km and takes about 1 hour and 23 minutes. Follow the signs and enjoy the scenic route. Note that this option is only feasible for those comfortable with a longer walk.

  • Driving

    If driving, Schönbrunn Palace is located at Schönbrunner Schloßstraße 47, 1130 Vienna. There is a parking area in front of the palace. Parking costs €4.50 per hour. A daily maximum rate of €39 applies. Be aware that parking can be limited, especially during peak season. Consider using a Park and Ride garage near a U-Bahn line for cheaper parking options. APCOA also offers parking at Garage Schlossallee Schönbrunn with short-term parking costing €3.80 per hour and a daily rate of €32.00.

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Discover more about Schönbrunn Palace

Schönbrunn Palace, or Schloss Schönbrunn, is an unmissable landmark in Vienna, Austria, steeped in history and imperial grandeur. From the 18th century until 1918, it served as the residence of the Habsburg emperors. The palace, along with its gardens, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and exemplifies a remarkable Baroque ensemble. The palace's story began in 1569 when Holy Roman Emperor Maximilian II acquired the land, using it as a hunting lodge. After the destruction of the original buildings during the Turkish siege of Vienna in 1683, Emperor Leopold I ordered its reconstruction in 1696. The palace evolved significantly under Empress Maria Theresa, who transformed it into a palatial residence and a focal point of Austrian political and social life. Visitors can explore the lavish state rooms and private apartments of Emperor Franz Joseph and Empress Elisabeth, as well as the 18th-century interiors from the era of Maria Theresa. The palace boasts 1,441 rooms, with 45 of them open to the public. The interiors are adorned in the Rococo style, and the mirrored hall once hosted a performance by a six-year-old Mozart. The Schönbrunn Palace park is open to visitors free of charge year-round. Within the park, you'll find impressive fountains, statues, monuments, trees, and flowers, as well as the Gloriette. Other attractions within the palace park, such as the Imperial Carriage Museum, Crown Prince Garden, Orangery Garden, Maze & Labyrinth, Zoo, Palm House and Desert Experience House, can be visited for an admission fee.

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