Last Updated on January 5, 2025 by gregor
Vienna, the heart of Austria, is celebrated for its rich history, magnificent architecture, and vibrant cultural scene. Among its many attractions, the city’s diverse array of museums stands out, offering visitors a window into the worlds of art, history, and science. Whether you’re an art lover, a history enthusiast, or simply looking for an inspiring experience, Vienna’s museums promise to captivate visitors of all ages.
Why Visit Vienna’s Museums?
Vienna’s museums are not only a testament to the city’s cultural heritage but also serve as a gateway to understanding Austria’s historical and artistic achievements. From the masterpieces of the Kunsthistorisches Museum to the innovative exhibits of the Haus der Musik, each museum tells a unique story, making them must-visit destinations for travelers.
What to Expect in This Guide
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the best museums in Vienna, complete with:
Essential details such as location, ticket prices, and opening hours.
Descriptions of their collections and highlights.
Ratings to help you choose the right museum for your interests.
For more details about each museum please read here https://www.theviennablog.com/category/vienna/museums-vienna/
Best Museums in Vienna – Vienna Museum Guide
Art & Design Museums
Introduction
Vienna is a paradise for art lovers, with an abundance of museums showcasing everything from medieval masterpieces to cutting-edge contemporary works. These institutions house priceless collections and host world-renowned exhibitions, making the city a must-visit for anyone passionate about art and design.
Summary
Vienna’s art and design museums include top-tier institutions like the Kunsthistorisches Museum, the Albertina, and Schloss Belvedere, each offering unique collections and exhibitions. Modern and contemporary art enthusiasts will appreciate venues such as the MuseumsQuartier and Kunst Haus Wien, while those interested in design and architecture can explore the MAK and the Austrian Architecture Museum.
My Top 3 Must-See Museums in Vienna
| Museum Name | Rating | Description | Address | Website |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kunsthistorisches Museum Wien | 4.8 (25,974) | Art museum in a magnificent building | Maria-Theresien-Platz | Kunsthistorisches Museum Wien |
| Albertina | 4.7 (27,547) | Art museum in a Habsburg palace | Albertinapl. 1 | Albertina |
| Schloss Belvedere | 4.7 (67,463) | 18th-century palace complex & art collection | Prinz-Eugen-Straße 27 | Schloss Belvedere |
Modern & Contemporary Art Museums
| Museum Name | Rating | Description | Address | Website |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bank Austria Kunstforum Wien | 4.6 (1,044) | Institution for art & events | Freyung 8 | Kunstforum Wien |
| The Heidi Horten Collection | N/A | Modern and contemporary art collection | Hanuschgasse 3 | Heidi Horten Collection |
| Albertina Modern | 4.5 (2,103) | Modern art in a 1860s Künstlerhaus | Karlsplatz 5 | Albertina Modern |
| MuseumsQuartier (MQ) | 4.6 (8,564) | Center for contemporary culture with museums | Museumsplatz 1 | MuseumsQuartier |
| Kunst Haus Wien – Museum Hundertwasser | 4.6 (7,883) | Art museum with works by Hundertwasser | Untere Weißgerberstraße 13 | Kunst Haus Wien |
| Wien Museum MUSA | 4.4 (1,200) | Special exhibitions focusing on Vienna and new artists | Felderstraße 6-8 | Wien Museum MUSA |
| Ernst Fuchs Museum | 4.5 (753) | Museum in Otto Wagner Villa with Ernst Fuchs’ works | Hüttelbergstraße 26 | Ernst Fuchs Museum |
| Dom Museum | 4.4 (432) | Treasures of Stephansdom and modern art | Stephansplatz 6 | Dom Museum |
Art Pre-1900 Museums
| Museum Name | Rating | Description | Address | Website |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gemäldegallerie (Academy of Fine Arts) | 4.5 (635) | Bosch’s The Last Judgment and old masters | Schillerplatz 3 | Akademie der bildenden Künste Wien |
| Schottenstift Museum | 4.6 (120) | Secular and ecclesiastical treasures, including the Schottenaltar | Freyung 6 | Schottenstift Museum |
Design & Architecture Museums
| Museum Name | Rating | Description | Address | Website |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MAK – Museum für angewandte Kunst | 4.5 (3,860) | Museum for applied arts & design | Stubenring 5 | MAK |
| Austrian Architecture Museum | 4.3 (600) | Focus on architecture and design | Museumsplatz 1 | Architekturzentrum Wien |
| Möbelmuseum Wien | 4.4 (827) | Vienna Furniture Museum with antique items | Andreasgasse 7 | Möbelmuseum Wien |
| WAGNER:WERK | 4.2 (100) | History of the postal savings bank building | Georg-Coch-Platz 2 | WAGNER:WERK |
| Augarten Porcelain Museum | 4.6 (450) | Displays classic and contemporary porcelain pieces | Obere Augartenstraße 1 | Augarten Porzellan |
Photography Museums
| Museum Name | Rating | Description | Address | Website |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FOTO ARSENAL WIEN | N/A | Contemporary photo exhibitions | Obere Augartenstraße 1 | FOTO ARSENAL WIEN |
| Westlicht | 4.6 (1,046) | Camera museum and photography exhibitions | Westbahnstraße 40 | Westlicht |
History & Culture Museums
Introduction
Vienna’s history and culture are rich and multifaceted, encompassing the grandeur of the Habsburg dynasty, the vibrant Jewish heritage, and the city’s evolution through the ages. These museums provide deep insights into the lives and times that shaped Vienna, offering a fascinating journey through its past.
Summary
History and culture museums in Vienna range from the opulent Hofburg and the Sisi Museum to the reflective Jewish Museum and the comprehensive Wien Museum. Each institution presents a unique aspect of Vienna’s heritage, making them essential stops for history buffs and culture enthusiasts.
Habsburgs Museum
| Museum Name | Rating | Description | Address | Website |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hofburg | 4.7 (47,608) | Baroque imperial residence with museums | – | Hofburg Wien |
| Sisi Museum | 4.5 (10,277) | Museum covering Empress Elisabeth’s life | Michaelerkuppel | Sisi Museum |
| Kaiserappartements | 4.7 (2,945) | Imperial apartments of Empress Elisabeth and Emperor Franz Joseph | Michaelerkuppel | Kaiserappartements |
| Silberkammer | 4.6 (1,234) | Imperial silver collection | Hofburg, Schweizerhof | Silberkammer |
| Schatzkammer | 4.8 (3,041) | Imperial Treasury with crown jewels | Hofburg, Schweizerhof | Schatzkammer |
| Imperial Armoury | 4.7 (1,547) | Ceremonial and tournament armour and weapons | Heldenplatz | Weltmuseum Wien |
| Wagenburg | 4.6 (1,123) | Imperial carriage collection | Schönbrunn Palace | Wagenburg |
| Children’s Museum | 4.5 (1,892) | Insights into imperial childhoods | Schönbrunn Palace | Children’s Museum |
| Hermesvilla | 4.4 (644) | Summerhouse built for Empress Elisabeth | Lainzer Tiergarten | Hermesvilla |
Other History & Culture Museums
| Museum Name | Rating | Description | Address | Website |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wien Museum | 4.6 (1,941) | Museum of Viennese art & history | Karlsplatz 8 | Wien Museum |
| Jewish Museum | 4.4 (2,176) | Museum on Jewish life & history | Dorotheergasse 11 | Jüdisches Museum Wien |
| Weltmuseum Wien | 4.6 (3,093) | Ethnographic and archaeological museum | Heldenplatz | Weltmuseum Wien |
| Volkskundemuseum | 4.3 (843) | Museum of folk life and art | Laudongasse 15-19 | Volkskundemuseum |
| Heeresgeschichtliches Museum | 4.7 (4,213) | Museum of military history | Arsenal Objekt 1 | Heeresgeschichtliches Museum |
| House of Austrian History | 4.5 (1,213) | Museum covering Austria’s recent history | Neue Burg, Heldenplatz | House of Austrian History |
| Pratermuseum | 4.2 (321) | History of the Prater recreational area | Oswald-Thomas-Platz 1 | Pratermuseum |
| Theatermuseum | 4.3 (1,002) | Museum on theatrical history | Lobkowitzplatz 2 | Theatermuseum |
| Literature Museum | 4.4 (365) | Museum on Austria’s literary history | Johannesgasse 6 | Literature Museum |
| Sigmund Freud Museum | 3.9 (4,488) | Museum in Freud’s former apartment and office | Berggasse 19 | Sigmund Freud Museum |
| Roman Museum | 4.3 (542) | Exhibits on Vienna’s Roman history | Hoher Markt 3 | Roman Museum |
| Ephesos Museum | 4.5 (230) | Antiquities from Ephesos | Neue Burg, Heldenplatz | Ephesos Museum |
| Papyrus Museum | 4.6 (312) | Collection of papyrus fragments | Neue Burg, Heldenplatz | Papyrus Museum |
| Esperanto Museum | 4.4 (183) | History of the Esperanto language | Heldenplatz | Esperanto Museum |
| Third Man Museum | 4.7 (1,132) | Museum dedicated to “The Third Man” movie and WWII Vienna | Pressgasse 25 | Third Man Museum |
Museums of Music in Vienna
Introduction
Vienna’s rich musical heritage is celebrated in a variety of museums dedicated to its most famous composers and the evolution of musical instruments. These museums provide an intimate look at the lives and works of musical geniuses who lived and worked in Vienna.
Summary
The music museums of Vienna include the Mozarthaus, Haus der Musik, and several dedicated to Beethoven, Strauss, and Schubert. Each museum offers unique insights into the lives, works, and legacies of these iconic musicians, making them essential for music lovers.
| Museum Name | Rating | Description | Address | Website |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mozarthaus | 4.5 (2,137) | Museum in Mozart’s former home | Domgasse 5 | Mozarthaus |
| Haus der Musik | 4.5 (8,984) | Interactive high-tech sound museum | Seilerstätte 30 | Haus der Musik |
| Beethoven Museum | 4.5 (678) | Museum in the house where Beethoven wrote the Heiligenstädter Testament | Probusgasse 6 | Beethoven Museum |
| House of Strauss | 4.4 (1,019) | Modern interactive exhibition on the Strauss dynasty | Praterstraße 54 | House of Strauss |
| Historical Instrument Collection | 4.6 (378) | Development of instruments with famous composer-owned items | Neue Burg, Heldenplatz | Historical Instrument Collection |
| Beethoven Pasqualatihaus | 4.3 (349) | Museum in Beethoven’s former residence | Mölker Bastei 8 | Beethoven Pasqualatihaus |
| Haydnhaus | 4.2 (521) | Haydn’s final residence with exhibitions on his work | Haydngasse 19 | Haydnhaus |
| Schubert’s Geburtshaus | 4.3 (344) | Museum in Schubert’s birthplace | Nußdorfer Str. 54 | Schubert’s Geburtshaus |
| Schubert’s Sterbewohnung | 4.4 (256) | Museum in the apartment where Schubert died | Kettenbrückengasse 6 | Schubert’s Sterbewohnung |
| Strausswohnung | 4.2 (456) | Museum where Strauss wrote “The Blue Danube” | Praterstraße 54 | Strausswohnung |
Museums of Science, Technology & Nature
Introduction
Vienna’s science, technology, and nature museums offer a fascinating exploration of the natural world, technological advancements, and scientific discoveries. These museums provide interactive and educational experiences for visitors of all ages.
Summary
Science and technology enthusiasts can delve into the exhibits at the Technisches Museum and the Naturhistorisches Museum. The Globe Museum and Remise provide unique insights into the history of globes and public transport, respectively.
| Museum Name | Rating | Description | Address | Website |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Naturhistorisches Museum Wien | 4.8 (34,033) | 19th-century natural history museum | Burgring 7 | Naturhistorisches Museum Wien |
| Technisches Museum Wien | 4.7 (13,323) | Museum of science & technology | Mariahilfer Str. 212 | Technisches Museum Wien |
| Globe Museum | 4.6 (652) | Collection of terrestrial, celestial, and moon globes | Herrengasse 9 | Globe Museum |
| Remise | 4.6 (1,111) | Public transport museum with historical trams | Ludwig-Koeßler-Platz | Remise |
Museums for Entertainment
Introduction
For those seeking fun and interactive experiences, Vienna’s entertainment museums offer a delightful blend of amusement, history, and hands-on activities. These venues are perfect for families, children, and anyone looking to enjoy a more playful side of museum visits.
Summary
Entertainment museums in Vienna include the whimsical Museum of Illusions, the celebrity-filled Madame Tussauds, and the nostalgic Retro Gaming Museum. Each provides unique and enjoyable experiences that go beyond traditional museum offerings.
| Museum Name | Rating | Description | Address | Website |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Museum of Illusions | 4.5 (2,213) | Amusement and illusions for all ages | Wallnerstraße 4 | Museum of Illusions |
| Madame Tussauds | 4.4 (3,892) | Famous wax museum with national and international figures | Riesenradplatz 5 | Madame Tussauds |
| Retro Gaming Museum | 4.3 (548) | Evolution of gaming technology with playable exhibits | Spittelauer Lände 10 | Retro Gaming Museum |
Frequently Asked Questions about Museums in Vienna
- What is the number one museum in Vienna?
- The Naturhistorisches Museum Wien and Kunsthistorisches Museum Wien are among the top-rated museums in Vienna, both boasting a rating of 4.8. They are celebrated for their extensive collections and magnificent architecture.
- What you Cannot miss in Vienna?
- You cannot miss visiting the historic Hofburg Palace, the impressive Schloss Belvedere, and the iconic St. Stephen’s Cathedral. These landmarks offer a deep dive into Vienna’s rich history and culture.
- What museums are not to miss in Vienna?
- The Kunsthistorisches Museum, Albertina, Leopold Museum, and the Museum of Natural History are must-visit museums in Vienna, each offering unique and extensive collections that cater to diverse interests.
- Which museums in Vienna are free?
- Many museums in Vienna offer free admission on the first Sunday of every month, including the Wien Museum. Additionally, the Museum of Military History and certain exhibitions at the MAK – Museum of Applied Arts can be visited for free on select days. Always check the specific museum’s website for the latest information on free entry days.
My Conclusion
Vienna’s museums are a testament to the city’s rich cultural heritage and its commitment to preserving and celebrating art, history, and science. Each museum offers a unique window into different aspects of human creativity and knowledge, making Vienna a must-visit destination for cultural enthusiasts. As you explore these remarkable institutions, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the stories and artifacts that have shaped our world.
Whether you’re wandering through the halls of the Kunsthistorisches Museum or marveling at the architectural beauty of Schloss Belvedere, Vienna’s museums provide an enriching journey through time and creativity. So, next time you’re in Vienna, make sure to set aside some time to explore these incredible museums and immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant cultural landscape.
For more details about each museum please read here https://www.theviennablog.com/category/vienna/museums-vienna/