Palace And Gardens Of Schönbrunn

Guide to the Palace and Gardens of Schönbrunn

Welcome to the Palace and Gardens of Schönbrunn, one of Vienna’s most significant historical sites! This magnificent palace complex offers a fascinating glimpse into Austria’s imperial past and promises an enchanting day out for tourists.

History

The Schönbrunn Palace was originally built in the 16th century as a hunting lodge, but it wasn’t until the reign of Emperor Francis I that Schönbrunn evolved into a summer residence for the Habsburg monarchy. Over centuries, various emperors and empresses added their unique touches to the palace, transforming it into the opulent baroque masterpiece we see today.

The Palace

Main Building

The Main Building is the central part of the Schönbrunn Palace complex. It houses several museums and collections that offer a comprehensive insight into Austrian history. Some of the main attractions inside the Main Building include:

  1. Habsburg’s Private Apartments: Discover the luxurious living quarters of Emperor Franz Joseph I, the last ruler of the Habsburg Empire.
  2. Museum of Empires: Explore the rise and fall of empires, from the Romans to the Austro-Hungarian Empire, through artifacts, paintings, and historical documents.
  3. Imperial Furniture Collection: Admire the intricate furniture used by the imperial family during their reigns.
  4. Sisi Museum: Learn about the life and tragic story of Empress Elisabeth (also known as Sisi).

Gloriette

Perched atop a hill, the majestic Gloriette offers breathtaking panoramic views of Vienna and the palace complex. Built by Emperor Francis I in 1775, this monument honors the Habsburg monarchs’ military victories. Don’t forget to take a photo with the famous golden statue of Apollo!

Gardens

The Gardens of Schönbrunn stretch over 1.2 square kilometers and are divided into several sections, each with its unique charm:

Great Parterre

The Great Parterre is the most formal section of the gardens, featuring symmetrical flower beds, fountains, and sculptures that create an impressive baroque-inspired landscape.

Palace Park

Stroll through the Palace Park, which boasts a lush landscape with tree-lined avenues, various monuments, and picturesque pavilions. The park also houses the oldest zoo in the world – Schönbrunn Zoo.

Maze and Labyrinth

Lose yourself in the Maze, a 10-meter high labyrinth made of yew hedges, or challenge your friends to find their way out of the smaller Labyrinth nearby.

Palm House

Visit the beautiful Palm House, built in 1823, which houses an impressive collection of exotic palms and other tropical plants. This glasshouse is a testament to Viennese botanical history.

How to get there

The Palace and Gardens of Schönbrunn are easily accessible by public transportation:

  • Subway (U-Bahn): Line U4, stop at Schönbrunn
  • Tram: Lines 10, 52, 53, 56, and 58 all stop near the palace complex.

Opening hours and ticket prices

For the most up-to-date information on opening hours and ticket prices, please visit the official Website of the Palace and Gardens of Schönbrunn.

Enjoy your time at the Palace and Gardens of Schönbrunn – we are confident that this magical place will leave you with unforgettable memories!