A Quick Travel Guide To Vienna’s Schönbrunn Palace, Vienna Austria

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Last Updated on April 29, 2024 by gregor

Here is everything you need to know when visiting the Schönbrunn Palace in Vienna

What you can expect from a visit to Schönbrunn Palace in Vienna?

The Schönbrunn Palace is the most beautiful and significant piece of architecture in Vienna. The place offers a great deal of art and history that is surrounded by spectacular buildings that make up the Schönbrunn Palace. This particular piece of history is what makes Vienna so spectacular and is absolutely gorgeous inside and out. Additionally, the place has been well-kept over the years allowing visitors to take a step back in time and take in all that the Schönbrunn Palace has to offer. 

The Schönbrunn Palace and Gardens

Since Austria has been ruled over by various Habsburg dynasties, you will be able to see a great deal of art that shows off different styles and art pieces. When you walk through the Schönbrunn palace’s garden no matter which direction you look you will be able to see endless pathways, lush green grass, and towering trees on both sides; creating the perfect view along with a natural canopy. Allowing you the chance to slide into imperial times, when the Schönbrunn palace was being used by the Austro-Hungarian Empire’s monarchs. 

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Obelisk Gates of Schönbrunn

On the other hand, when you stand at the obelisk gates; you will be able to see the grand grounds that extend all the way to the arch. This gorgeous monument sits perfectly at the top of a 60-meter hill, graced with a stunning golden eagle that represents the labors of Hercules.

You can walk around the place, and you will get this sense of art and structure that pulls you closer. The more you look, the more mesmerized you will feel, as the place is one giant dream.

You will feel like you have been transported back in time and are now taking on a different path than you were on before. This strong sense and connection are only possible here, as no matter which direction you look in; you will see historic and charming pieces.

A Brief History of The Schönbrunn Palace

The history of Schönbrunn Palace is as charming as the place itself. The place has such a rich history and culture to offer that it is mostly packed with locals and tourists. This is one of the hottest spots in town and offers a story like no other.

The Habsburg Dynasty

If you are familiar with the history of Austria you would know that the country was ruled by the Habsburg dynasties over the decades, and each one of them has left a part of its culture and heritage behind. Which over the years has mixed up with the local culture, and created a unique spin on the basics. This is one of the main reasons why you will find such an amazing arrangement of art, music, and culture in Vienna.

Why is the Schönbrunn Palace the most visited site in Vienna?

When you focus simply on the Schönbrunn Palace you will instantly be fascinated by the large view and charming appearance of the space. This is one of the reasons why the Schönbrunn Palace is the most visited site in Vienna. As the place is the cornerstone of history and offers a story like no other. Along with being the most historic building in Vienna, the palace is now classified as one of the top architectural monuments in Austria. 

What does the name Schönbrunn when translated into English mean?

There was a time when the Schönbrunn palace was called the Katterburg estate and was enjoyed by the family members. Later the palace was given the name “Schönbrunn” when translated into English it means “beautiful spring”. The name offers the place justice, as the lush green gardens offers the perfect spring feel and are laced with various flowers throughout. However, back in the Habsburg Dynasty (one of the most prominent and well-known dynasties), the land was acquired as a hunting ground. This was back in 1569 when the estate was just another lush green forest to be explored by hunters. The Habsburgs acquired the land to fulfill their hunting habit, but later they decided to use a part of the land for a gorgeous estate for them to enjoy. 

This task was taken on by Maximilian II, who wanted to keep the place as a breeding space. Allowing him the chance to keep exotic birds, so he could watch peacocks and turkeys run around the estate. However, over the years the Schönbrunn Palace saw a great deal of change; and was soon transformed into a proper palace for the Royals to enjoy. This is one of the many palaces found in Austria and is considered to be one of the best.

Moreover, the palace has seen thousands of guests, and now millions of tourists walk through its grounds. Taking in the beautiful building, and the interesting story that comes with the palace. 

What Is The Best Way To Explore The Schonbrunn Palace?

There are many ways you can explore the Schönbrunn balance, but you will need to prepare beforehand. Here are the To p Tips

Where can I get the tickets for Schönbrunn Palace?

As you can get a few tickets from the place, that allow you access to some parts of the palace. To make it easier the packages have been categorized by levels, allowing you the chance to pick the package you feel is perfect for you.

Schönbrunn Palace Tour with Gardens

Book your tickets here: Schönbrunn Palace: Tour with Gardens

*) Let your guide bring the history of the palace and its gardens to life on a guided tour. See how the Habsburg Dynasty lived and learn more about the life of the Austrian court.

Schönbrunn Grand Tour: Private Skip-the-Line Walking Tour

Book your tickets here: Schönbrunn Grand Tour: Private Skip-the-Line Walking Tour

*) Skip the line to the stunning Schönbrunn Palace and get the chance to explore the forty most important staterooms on this private walking tour.

Vienna: Panorama Train Tickets to explore Schönbrunn Palace

Book your tickets here: Vienna: Panorama Train Tickets to explore Schönbrunn Palace

*) Explore Schönbrunn Palace’s breathtaking gardens at your own pace on the hop-on-hop-off train. The tour has 9 different stops, including the famous viewpoint Gloriette. Using the train is the most comfortable way to reach the hill of Gloriette.

Drinking & Snacking At The Schönbrunn Palace

After taking in a great deal of history, and historical sites; it’s only natural to need to pick me up. If you find yourself in such a situation at the Schönbrunn palace then do not be alarmed because you are in luck.

Cafés and Restaurants at the Schönbrunn Palace

Simply head over to any one of the cafés and restaurants that are conveniently present around the palace grounds. Here you will find a range of cuisines, but if you are in the mood for something Viennese, then head over to the Residenz Café. They offer various traditional cakes and desserts; along with savory main courses. In addition, if you are lucky you might be able to catch a professional baker craft some of the finest traditional desserts found in Austria. However, that depends on your luck and the day and time of your visit. If you want to ensure that you catch the professional chef in action, then we suggest you call and ensure when the chef will be on the spot. A little planning can go a long way.

The Gloriette & Cafe

Another choice for you is the Gloriette Café, this fine choice offers the perfect pick-me-ups after a long day at the Schönbrunn Palace. The cafe understands the importance of a proper meal and drinks required to fuel your body. However, you will need to climb a small hill; but you will have a spectacular view of your food and drinks. This is one of the best places to dine when you are in the area.

As they offer delicious foods and drinks, that are paired with the best view. Moreover, if you are looking for a way to get in touch with imperial life, you should enjoy the Sisi Buffet. This buffet offers a wide spread of sausages, fried bacon, kaiser rolls, and smoked salmon, along with a glass of Prosecco. 

Schönbrunn Palace A World Heritage Site

The Schönbrunn Palace is not only considered to be the most historical site in Austria, but it is also in fact considered to be one of the most historical landmarks in the world.

The site was classified as a World Heritage Site back in 1996 when it was finally recognized as a rich and historically important palace.

The place offers charming design details and history that are hard to find.

Additional Attractions in Schönbrunn Palace

Along with the attractions found on the Palace grounds. These include but are not limited to the botanical gardens, maze, orangery, palm house, a zoo in winter, and an outdoor pool in summer. Making this mesmerizing palace the perfect place to be regardless of the season.

Vienna: Imperial Carriage Museum in Schönbrunn Palace Ticket

Book your tickets here: Vienna: Imperial Carriage Museum in Schönbrunn Palace Ticket

*) The Imperial Carriage Museum Vienna in Schönbrunn Palace invites you to take a walk through the history of Austria. Marvel at the Baroque imperial coach and stroll along the “Sisi Trail” to get to know more about Empress Elisabeth.

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Schönbrunn Palace Gardens Tour, Schönbrunn Zoo

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