The Hofburg Imperial Palace is a feast for the senses, a perfect opportunity to see the cream of Viennese and international culture amid the luxury of the former Habsburg Empire.
Building began in 1275, one year before the removal of King Ottokar II of Bohemia from the throne paved the way for the ascension of the Habsburgs. It would remain in this guise for almost three centuries, but 1533 saw the first of many extensions and alterations, which have given us the enormous, varied structure it is today. Nowadays, the building consists of 18 wings and some 2,000 rooms.
Enter via the ornate Baroque gateway into the Michaelerplatz courtyard, where you can admire the imperial apartments with their decadent décor and beautifully crafted furniture.
Take in the Sisi Museum, commemorating the famously doomed Empress Elisabeth, wife of Franz Joseph I, who was assassinated. You can follow secret passageways to the awesome Prunksaal showroom in the National Library, or appreciate artworks of the highest international calibre in the fantastic Albertina gallery.
Lovers of choral music will delight in the wonderful Wiener Sängerknaben (Vienna Boys’ Choir), who perform in the Imperial Chapel, while those with a taste for the indulgent can gaze upon royal jewels, crowns, and even a unicorn’s horn in the Schatzkammer (Treasury) Museum. If you really value the finer things in life, you’re sure to enjoy the dazzling silver collection left by the Habsburg family to the new Austrian republic upon the changeover of power in 1918, or a show in the elegant Winter Riding School.
As you will have figured out by now, the number and sheer range of cultural institutions to see here mean that you won’t get a chance to fit everything into one day – a return is highly recommended to take in as much as possible!
The Hofburg Imperial Palace is found on Ringstraße in central Vienna, and is easily accessible via public transport. There are different opening times and prices for the various attractions, so you should check the palace website before your visit.
Hofburg Imperial Palace
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Reviews of Hofburg Imperial Palace
4/5 - Good
We could only see the palace due to the Coronavirus and everything being closed
4/5 - Good
Only viewed from outside
3/5 - Okay
Very crowded.
5/5 - Excellent
Didn't get time to go inside, but walked around the outside and enjoyed the most beautiful Imperial architecture and gardens.
5/5 - Excellent
But tickets in advance if you wish to see the Lippizaner Horses as the lonmg queue means you may miss the display
Popular places to visit
Austrian National Library
Stroll through four hugely different museums, all housed in beautiful Baroque style in a Habsburg palace.
Spanish Riding School
Learn about the local history of Vienna when you spend time at Spanish Riding School. Discover the area's acclaimed theatre scene and churches.
Sissi Museum
You can study the exhibits at Sissi Museum, a museum with a storied past, during your holiday in Vienna. Discover the area's acclaimed art galleries and stunning cathedral.
Burggarten
Stroll around the peaceful 19th-century court gardens of Emperor Franz II and visit monuments and greenhouses that retain the park’s historic charm.
Castle Garden
Explore the great outdoors at Castle Garden, a lovely green space in Vienna. Experience the area's fascinating museums and acclaimed art galleries.
Michaelerplatz
See Roman ruins, visit the Hofburg Imperial Palace and spot Renaissance frescoes at an ancient church at this beautiful Old Town square.
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