Schönbrunn Palace Vienna – Tickets, Tours & Visitor Guide 2025
Tickets from €25 | Guided Tours from €54 | Skip-the-Line Entry Available
Explore Vienna’s imperial masterpiece — history, highlights, and guided tours.
Introduction – Why Schönbrunn Palace is Vienna’s Crown Jewel
Schönbrunn Palace (Schloss Schönbrunn) is one of Vienna’s most visited attractions and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Once the summer residence of the Habsburg dynasty, it remains a symbol of Austria’s imperial legacy and artistic grandeur.
The palace features 1,441 rooms, magnificent gardens, fountains, statues, and the world’s oldest zoo. Whether you come for the architecture, royal stories, or photo opportunities, Schönbrunn offers a complete imperial experience.
The History of Schönbrunn Palace
Schönbrunn Palace’s story began in the 16th century, when Emperor Maximilian II bought the estate for hunting. In the early 18th century, Emperor Leopold I commissioned the palace’s grand design, created by Johann Bernhard Fischer von Erlach.
During the reign of Empress Maria Theresa, Schönbrunn became the beating heart of the Habsburg Empire — where Mozart performed as a child prodigy, and European diplomacy shaped history.
Later, Emperor Franz Joseph and Empress Elisabeth turned it into their family home. The palace has since hosted world leaders and remains one of Europe’s most visited heritage sites.
What to See at Schönbrunn Palace
From royal apartments to panoramic viewpoints, Schönbrunn offers plenty to explore. Below are the main highlights visitors shouldn’t miss.
The Imperial Apartments
Step into the personal chambers of Emperor Franz Joseph and Empress Elisabeth (“Sisi”). Their rooms reveal fascinating contrasts between royal duty and personal taste — from the emperor’s simple desk to the empress’s ornate salon.
The Great Gallery
A dazzling 40-metre-long hall decorated with mirrors, frescoes, and chandeliers. Once the venue for imperial banquets and concerts, it’s where the young Mozart performed for Empress Maria Theresa.
The Palace Gardens
Stroll through 120 hectares of perfectly designed Baroque gardens. Don’t miss the Neptune Fountain, Roman Ruins, and the flower-filled parterres leading to the Gloriette.
The Gloriette
At the top of the hill stands the Gloriette — a beautiful triumphal arch offering breathtaking views across Vienna. Enjoy a coffee at the Gloriette Café while taking in the city skyline.
Want to dive deeper into Schönbrunn’s must-see attractions? Check out our full list of the top 10 things to do at Schönbrunn Palace.
Schönbrunn Palace Ticket Prices
Choose from a variety of ticket options to experience Schönbrunn Palace — from audio-guided tours to all-inclusive passes that cover multiple attractions.
| Ticket Type | Includes | Duration | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Classic Pass | 5 attractions in one ticket — Schönbrunn Palace, Privy Garden, Orangery Garden, Maze, and Gloriette. | 3–4 hours | Adults €40
Children (6+) €31 |
| Palace Ticket | Audio-guided tour through the entire piano nobile — private apartments of Franz Joseph & Elisabeth, state and reception rooms. | 60 mins | Adults €34
Children (6+) €24 |
| State Apartments | Audio-guided access to the ceremonial halls and exquisite private chambers of Maria Theresa. | 40 mins | Adults €25
Children (6+) €16 |
| Guided Tour – Maria Theresa | Expert-led guided tour covering the Bergl Rooms, state halls, and unique 18th-century chambers. | 75 mins | Adults €39
Children (6+) €29 |
| Sisi Pass | 3 imperial attractions — Schönbrunn Palace, Sisi Museum & Imperial Apartments (Hofburg), and Vienna Furniture Museum. | — | Adults €51
Children (6+) €33.50 |
| Skip-the-Line Palace & Gardens Guided Tour | 2-hour guided tour with a licensed local expert — includes priority entry to Schönbrunn Palace and gardens. | 2 hours | Adults €54
Book Now → |
Tip: Booking online guarantees your preferred time slot and lets you skip the ticket queues at the entrance.
Visiting Information
- April – June: 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM
- July – August: 8:30 AM – 6:00 PM
- September – October: 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM
- November – March: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Last admission 45 minutes before closing.
The gardens open daily from 6:30 AM until dusk. Entry is free and changes with the seasons — tulips in spring, golden leaves in autumn, and snow in winter.
You can buy tickets online or on-site. Popular options include:
- Imperial Tour: 22 rooms, approx. 40 min
- Grand Tour: 40 rooms, approx. 60 min
- Combined Pass: Palace + Gardens + Gloriette + Zoo
💡 For the best experience, join a guided tour — skip the lines and learn real stories about the royal family.
👉 Book a Schönbrunn Palace Guided Tour with Skip-the-Line Access
Schönbrunn Palace is located in Vienna’s 13th district ( Hietzing), about 15 minutes from the city centre.
Public Transport
- Metro: Line U4 → Schönbrunn Station (5-min walk). Check schedules and routes on the official Wiener Linien website.
- Tram: Lines 10 or 60 → Schönbrunn stop
- Bus: Lines 10A or 63A
From the City Centre
Take Metro U4 from Karlsplatz → Schönbrunn (approx. 15 minutes).
Allow at least 2–3 hours for the palace and gardens; half a day if including the zoo and Gloriette.
Want help deciding which Schönbrunn tour duration fits you best? Read our detailed guide comparing the 40, 60 & 120-minute tours.
Schönbrunn is wheelchair-friendly. There are lifts, accessible restrooms, and staff available to help with mobility needs.
Take a break with Viennese coffee and desserts at:
- Gerstner K. u. K. Hofzuckerbäcker Show(palace courtyard)
- Gloriette Café(hilltop with view)
- Schlosscafé Schönbrunn
- Arrive early to beat crowds.
- Book tickets online in advance.
- Wear comfortable shoes — the gardens are huge.
- Don’t miss the sunset from the Gloriette terrace!
Things to Know Before Visiting Schönbrunn Palace
Here’s everything you should know before booking your Schönbrunn experience — from time slots to guided tours and accessibility tips.
Timed Entry Required
All Schönbrunn Palace tickets include a fixed time slot. Make sure to select your preferred entry time when booking — access is only valid for that window.
Skip the Line (and Why You Should)
During peak months (May–August and December), entry queues can reach up to an hour. A skip-the-line guided tour lets you go directly to the entrance and explore without the stress of waiting.
Why Choose a Guided Tour
With over 1,400 rooms and centuries of history, Schönbrunn can be overwhelming to explore alone. A guided tour helps you uncover hidden details, royal stories, and iconic rooms like Maria Theresa’s Salon and the Great Gallery.
Still wondering if a guided visit is worth it? Find out why Schönbrunn Palace is one of Vienna’s unmissable experiences.
Book a Schönbrunn Palace Guided Tour with Skip-the-Line Access
Combine Your Visit
Make a full day of it by pairing the Palace Tour with Schönbrunn Zoo — the world’s oldest zoo, just a short walk away. It’s the perfect way to experience both imperial culture and nature in one visit.
Evening Experiences
Attend a Mozart & Strauss concert at the Schönbrunn Orangery — the same venue where Mozart once performed. For something extra special, look for after-hours tours for a quieter, more intimate palace experience.
Accessibility Information
Schönbrunn Palace is largely wheelchair-accessible, with ramps, lifts, and accessible restrooms available. However, note that the Privy Garden, Maze viewing platform, and Gloriette terrace have limited step-free access.
Travel Tip
If you’re spending more than a day in Vienna, consider a 48-hour hop-on-hop-off ticket that covers Schönbrunn, Belvedere, and the city’s top sights — ideal for flexible sightseeing and getting the most out of your visit.
Hidden Gems at Schönbrunn
Beyond the famous sights, Schönbrunn hides a few special treasures worth discovering:
- Desert House: a unique collection of desert plants and wildlife beside the Palm House
- Maze & Labyrinth Garden: fun for kids and adults alike — try to find your way to the central viewing platform.
- Orangery: still hosts daily classical concerts featuring Mozart and Strauss.
- Crown Prince Garden: a quiet, ornate garden with geometric flower designs.
- Children’s Museum (Kindermuseum): kids can dress up like princes and princesses and explore imperial life hands-on.
- Panorama Train: hop on for an easy ride through the vast palace grounds, connecting all major attractions.
Why Visit Schönbrunn with YouOnTour
Our guided Schönbrunn tours are led by local experts who bring history to life through stories of emperors, artists, and intrigue.
You’ll skip the lines, explore the royal apartments, and discover details that most visitors miss.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How long does a visit take?
Most visitors spend 2–3 hours exploring the palace and gardens.
If you also plan to visit the zoo, Gloriette, or labyrinth, allow around half a day for the full Schönbrunn experience.
Are the gardens free?
Yes — most areas of the Schönbrunn Gardens are free to enter, including the main park, Neptune Fountain, and Gloriette Hill.
However, access to some special gardens such as the Privy Garden, Maze & Labyrinth, and Orangery Garden requires a small entrance fee.
Is it worth getting a guided tour?
Absolutely. You’ll skip queues, hear authentic stories, and get priority access.
Can I take photos inside?
Yes — photography is allowed inside the palace for personal use, but flash and tripods are not permitted.
You can also take photos freely throughout the gardens and courtyard.
Is Schönbrunn open all year?
Yes, the Schönbrunn Palace and Gardens are open year-round.
Opening hours vary slightly depending on the season, but visitors are welcome every day of the week, including weekends and holidays.
Must-See Attractions in Vienna
Skip-the-Line Schönbrunn Palace and Gardens Tour
Skip the line and explore 22 magnificent rooms of Schönbrunn Palace, including the royal apartments of Franz Joseph and Empress Sisi. Enjoy a guided tour through the Baroque gardens and Gloriette terrace for stunning city views.
Skip-the-Line Hofburg and Empress Sisi Museum Tour
Step into imperial Vienna at the Hofburg Palace. Visit the Sisi Museum, Imperial Apartments, and the Silver Collection to uncover the life and legacy of Empress Elisabeth in Austria’s royal residence.
Guided Walking Tour of City Highlights & Hidden Gems
Discover Vienna’s most iconic landmarks on a guided city walking tour. Explore St. Stephen’s Cathedral, Hofburg Palace, the Spanish Riding School, and the Vienna State Opera with an expert local guide.
Classical Masters Concert at Haus der Musik
Experience the magic of Mozart, Beethoven, and Strauss performed by the Wiener Klassik Ensemble at Haus der Musik — an intimate evening of Viennese classical music in the heart of the city.
Official Supplier on Leading Travel Platforms
