Vienna › Schloß Schönbrunn Kultur- und Betriebsges.m.b.H.

Schönbrunn Palace is a must-see on any visit to Vienna, impressive and easily accessible. Numerous attractions await you – from a tour of authentically furnished living and representative rooms of the imperial family in the castle to mazes and labyrinths in the castle park to their own children’s museum. Here you can authentically experience the imperial heritage of the Habsburgs, experience European history and discover historical knowledge in an entertaining way. The oldest zoo in the world is also located on the estate.    

Schönbrunn Palace is a unique Baroque synthesis of the arts and is one of Austria’s most important cultural assets. It consists of the former residential palace with the surrounding gardens. From 1569 until the end of the monarchy in 1918, the estate was owned by the Habsburg dynasty. Under the reign of Maria Theresa, the palace complex experienced its most glamorous era as a summer residence from 1745 onwards and became the centre of court and political life. To this day, the Baroque furnishings from the Maria Theresian period and with the adaptations in the neo-rococo style that followed from the middle of the 19th century onwards have largely been preserved in the representative rooms.    

The palace park with its imposing gardens and fountains from Maria Theresa’s widowhood (1770s) is also open for exploration largely in its original condition. The Neptune Fountain, the Obelisk Fountain, the Roman Ruins, the eponymous “Beautiful Fountain” and the Gloriette on Schönbrunn Hill dominate the gardens.

In December 1996, on the occasion of the 20th session of the World Heritage Committee, Schönbrunn Palace and Gardens were included in UNESCO’s list of World Heritage Sites, which was established in 1972.

Travelharry Tip: From 8 November 2024, the new Schönbrunn Palace Christmas Market invites you to a festive experience in an imperial atmosphere!