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Schonbrunn Palace and Gardens: Practical Information for Visitors

All you need to know about Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna, Austria

Introduction to Schonbrunn Palace

A world-famous and historic palace, Austria’s Schönbrunn Palace is located in the Wachau Valley. Known for its lush gardens, which are home to some of the most beautiful and unusual plants in the world, it rose to fame. Musicians like Beethoven and Mozart are said to have been influenced by it. Tsarist Eleonora Gonzaga ordered construction on this massive palace to begin in 1638, but it was destroyed in 1683 during the Turkish siege of Vienna, and it went through a series of stages that turned it into one of Austria’s and Europe’s most beautiful palaces.

Located in Vienna, Austria’s Schönbrunn Palace is one of the country’s most important archaeological, historical, and engineering monuments. It used to be the summer residence of the Austrian royal family during the Tsar’s reign and is now one of Europe’s most beautiful palaces. Here, members of the Tsar’s family would spend their free time in the palace’s massive rooms, which contain 1441 thrones. The palace is divided into five sections: the main building, the adjacent gardens, the inner courtyard, the botanical gardens, and the zoo. The visitor can explore all 45 of these areas at their leisure.


Where is Schönbrunn Palace located?  

Vienna’s Schönbrunn Palace, located in the Heinzing district, is one of the city’s most beautiful and famous landmarks because it is home to numerous rare and amazing artefacts.


History of Schönbrunn Palace

Since the 1960s, the palace has been recognised as one of Vienna’s most renowned and magnificent tourist attractions as well as one of Austria’s most important archaeological and cultural sites. A small palace named Caterpillar was built on a fertile flood plain in 1569 by Holy Roman Emperor Maximilian II and given to the Holy Roman Empress Eleonora Gonzaga after the death of her husband Ferdinand II. The palace was renamed Empreria in the early eighteenth century.

In 1743, under Empress Maria Teresa’s rule, the palace was completed and given its current appearance. The Austrian tsars used it as a summer residence, and it developed in a Rococo style during the 18th century and up until World War I. About a thousand royal court servants took care of the Palace, where the Habsburg dynasty held official meetings and parties. Under the Austro-Hungarian Empire, the palace was known as the Palace of Enjoyment.

In the west wing are the bedrooms of Emperor Franz Joseph and Empress Elizabeth, designed and decorated in the style of the nineteenth century, and in the central wing, are the Empire of Maria Theresa and Empress Elizabeth, designed and decorated in the style of the nineteenth century. The visit to Schönbrunn Palace begins on the main floor, or the so-called Nobili Piano, at the famous blue staircase that leads to imperial rooms. According to UNESCO, the palace has a total area of 160 hectares and has been a World Heritage Site since 1996.

Designed by Austria’s most celebrated architect, Erlach, Schönbrunn Palace has a rich history spanning several centuries and has evolved into a masterpiece of art and architecture that will endure through the ages with its magnificent majesty and dignity. In Vienna, Schönbrunn Palace, which translates as “all spring,” is one of the most important historical landmarks. Austrians see and share with many visitors that the palace is one of Austria’s most beautiful and important palaces, known for its beauty and unique architectural splendour.

Schönbrunn Palace’s halls, corridors, and passageways not only serve as a tourist hotspot because of its opulent architecture, but they also serve as a historical relic dating back to the European Renaissance. Due to Vienna’s prominence as a European diplomatic hub at the time, the historical significance of the Habsburg summer palace lies in its role as the hub of major Austrian and European decision-making along with the winter Hofburg.

You’ll enjoy exploring the palace and taking in the beautiful decorations and engravings on the walls that depict history as it has passed through the ages. In addition to the lush gardens that the palace overlooks, which are filled with the most vibrantly coloured plants, there’s also the Schönbrunn maze, which is an interesting place to visit, as well as the Neptune fountain.

Maria Theresa

Maria Teresa, Austria’s most illustrious empress, lived within the palace’s walls after it was finished. In total, she gave birth to 16 children, all of whom lived with their mother in the palace until the last one passed away in the year 1916.

The empress and her entourage were treated like royalty at Schönbrunn, which I dubbed the “palace of pleasure” because of the graciousness shown them.

Since Maria Theresa’s reign, the 160-hectare palace served as the Austrian emperors’ summer retreat. In 1996, it was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its role in historical events.

Many notable events have taken place while Vienna has served as Europe’s diplomatic hub. In 1814 European rulers convened at the Palace of Habsburg to sign the Vienna Conference document which rejected French dominance over Europe.


Most famous rooms of the Palace


There are 1445 rooms in the palace, but only 45 of them can be visited by tourists, as well as the grounds surrounding them and the inner courtyard.

As with the dancing halls where European monarchs competed against Napoleon at the opening of the famous Vienna Conference in 1814, Schönbrunn Palace was a challenge to French hegemony at the time. Rooms like Empress Maria Theresa’s drawing room and the room of mirrors are must-sees if you visit the palace. At the age of 16, Mozart, the legendary musician, gave his first public performance.

Also in Schönbrunn Palace, the legendary composer Pthofen composed a significant portion of his work (Fidelio) and Emperor Karl, the last Austrian Emperor, signed a throne-giving document in the Blue Chinese Salon, and thus the ownership of Schönbrunn Palace was transferred along with the rest of Habsburg family property to the Austrian Republic…………………………………………………. Emperor France Joseph, son of Empress Maria Theresa, died of natural causes in his bedroom in Chonbrunn, the palace where he was born and lived from 1830 to 1916. The Schönbrunn, on the other hand, was known for housing a family of 16 children: Maria Theresa’s sons and daughters


Schonbrunn Palace gardens

Schönbrunn Palace’s numerous magnificent carved gardens, also known as (The Great Partier), are one of the palace’s most important features and its most beautiful locations, the most significant of which are:

1- Gloriette Suite

The Gloriette Suite, the palace’s crown jewel, was built in 1775 on a hill overlooking the palace and its gardens in the Baroque style by the artist Fischer von. During World War II, significant portions of the Suite were destroyed but were later rebuilt. Tourists can now enjoy panoramic views of the castle and gardens from the Gloriette Suite, which also serves as a café.

2- French gardens  

It was designed in 1695 by engineer John Trerier and takes a basic space from the Schönbrunn Palace gardens, which attract visitors, particularly children, who enjoy playing in them and trying to find an outlet or an exit as quickly as possible. The French gardens are famous for their beautiful maze.

3- Schönbrunn Zoo  

As one of the world’s oldest conservation parks, the Schönbrunn Zoo is a major tourist attraction. The Vienna Zoo was established in 1752 and has been known as such ever since. There are a few lucky animals who got to live in the palace zoo, the world’s oldest, which still attracts visitors and whose creatures are hugely popular. The world’s oldest park spans 16 hectares and contains the world’s most famous zoo.

4- Orangery

The orangery is a beautiful feature of the palace garden. It was invented in 1755 and has been used by Europeans since the seventeenth century because of its citrus scent.

5- Dar Al-Nakhil  

Featuring more than 4,500 plant species from all over the world, the Dar Al-Nakhil Garden is a palace treasure. The glass and iron construction, as well as the one-of-a-kind artwork, set this building apart. Due to the presence of a 350-year-old olive tree from Spain, this park has grown into one of the world’s most important exhibitions for people interested in plants since it was first opened in 1882.

6- Roman Antiquities  

Schönbrunn Palace’s garden, which features numerous artefacts, is one of the palace’s most important and beautiful features. The ruins of Carthage were created in 1778 by Johan Ferdinand and named after the Roman antiquities found in Carthage. The Europeans at the beginning of the eighteenth century liked to decorate their gardens with statues similar to statues Roman era.

After four years of siege, the palace came to life again, when the architect Johann von Erlach received permission from Tsar Leopold I to complete it, and Ehrlich was the most famous architect of his time, and it was completed in the eighteenth century, specifically in 1743 AD, to become an architectural masterpiece that resists time. 


Beethoven and Mozart at Schonbrunn Palace

The musician Mozart left an immortal memory in the palace when he performed a concert at the age of sixteen in the room of mirrors, which is one of the most famous rooms of the palace, located next to the drawing-room that was allocated by the palace designer for Empress Maria Theresa and her 16 children to listen to paint.

And just as Mozart excelled in the room of mirrors, the musician Beethoven was inspired by a large part of his famous piece Fidelio between the corners of the historical palace, and he wrote it while he toured the Palace of Enjoyment, so that the piece will be lived up to now and enjoyed by millions.

The Republic of Austria had many halls and rooms in the palace, every place witnessed artistic parties and memorable nights, as that night was the most famous in the history of Austria and in the reception hall known as the Blue Salon, as Austria transformed from a royal state to a republic, when the last emperor of Austria signed a document abandoning the throne.
On this historic day, the ownership of Schönbrunn Palace passed to the Austrian Republic, and it remains so today.


Best things to do in Schönbrunn Palace, Vienna

• Visit the Grand Palace, which represents a wonderful architectural masterpiece. You can wander through its corridors and contemplate the inscriptions and decorations on its walls.

Schönbrunn Palace in Vienna

• Visit the zoo within the Palace Park, which is the oldest zoo in the world and is known as the Schönbrunn Zoo.

Schönbrunn Zoo Vienna

• Visit the Queen’s Garden, located next to the Palace’s Garden, in which you can find many kinds of colorful plants, and you can take some memorial photos there.

Queen's Garden Schönbrunn Palace

• Visit the Schönbrunn maze, which is one of the most interesting features of the palace, as it contains many game stations such as climbing columns, games of intelligence, and others. You can also climb the tower that overlooks the maze and watch the players inside.

Schönbrunn Palace is one of the most beautiful places of tourism in Vienna, Austria

• If your visit to Schönbrunn Palace coincides with the Christmas period, do not miss the opportunity to visit the Christmas market located in the palace square, where you will find shops selling souvenirs and pastries.

Schönbrunn Palace is one of the most beautiful tourist places in Vienna, Austria

• Watch the Neptune Fountain, which is one of the most important features of the palace, as it is distinguished by its unique design and sculptures. Do not forget to take photographs next to it, as it is worth it.

Schönbrunn Palace is one of the most beautiful places of tourism in Austria, Vienna

• If you finish roaming in the Schönbrunn Palace in Vienna, you can visit the palace restaurant and have a special meal or have a cup of coffee in the on-site café.


When to visit the Schönbrunn Palace Vienna

The palace is available for visiting all days of the week from 8:00 in the morning until 17:00 in the evening. Please check out for Post-Covid-19 timings.


Tickets for Vienna Schönbrunn Palace

The palace offers several sightseeing tours that vary in price, and there is a comprehensive ticket for 30 euros. It should be noted that a tour with a guide who speaks Arabic is available. For more information, you can visit the official website of the palace. from here.


Photos of Schonbrunn Palace and Gardens

Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna
Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna
From a tourist trip to Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna, Austria
Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna
From a tourist trip to Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna, Austria
Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna
From a tourist trip to Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna, Austria
Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna
From a tourist trip to Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna, Austria
Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna
From a tourist trip to Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna, Austria
Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna
From a tourist trip to Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna, Austria
Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna
From a tourist trip to Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna, Austria
Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna
From a tourist trip to Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna, Austria
Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna
From a tourist trip to Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna, Austria
Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna
From a tourist trip to Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna, Austria
Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna
From a tourist trip to Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna, Austria
Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna
From a tourist trip to Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna, Austria
Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna
From a tourist trip to Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna, Austria
Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna
From a tourist trip to Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna, Austria
Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna
From a tourist trip to Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna, Austria
Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna
From a tourist trip to Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna, Austria
Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna
From a tourist trip to Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna, Austria
Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna
From a tourist trip to Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna, Austria
Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna
From a tourist trip to Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna, Austria
Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna
From a tourist trip to Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna, Austria
Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna
From a tourist trip to Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna, Austria
Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna
From a tourist trip to Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna, Austria
Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna
From a tourist trip to Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna, Austria
Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna
From a tourist trip to Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna, Austria
Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna
From a tourist trip to Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna, Austria
Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna
From a tourist trip to Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna, Austria
Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna
From a tourist trip to Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna, Austria
Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna
From a tourist trip to Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna, Austria
Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna
From a tourist trip to Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna, Austria
Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna
From a tourist trip to Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna, Austria
Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna
From a tourist trip to Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna, Austria
Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna
From a tourist trip to Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna, Austria
Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna
From a tourist trip to Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna, Austria
Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna
From a tourist trip to Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna, Austria
Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna
From a tourist trip to Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna, Austria
Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna
From a tourist trip to Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna, Austria
Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna
From a tourist trip to Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna, Austria
Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna
From a tourist trip to Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna, Austria
Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna
From a tourist trip to Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna, Austria
Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna
From a tourist trip to Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna, Austria
Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna
From a tourist trip to Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna, Austria
Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna
From a tourist trip to Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna, Austria
Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna
From a tourist trip to Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna, Austria
Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna
From a tourist trip to Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna, Austria
Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna
From a tourist trip to Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna, Austria
Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna
From a tourist trip to Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna, Austria
Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna
From a tourist trip to Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna, Austria
Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna
From a tourist trip to Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna, Austria
Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna
From a tourist trip to Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna, Austria
Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna
From a tourist trip to Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna, Austria
Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna
From a tourist trip to Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna, Austria
Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna
From a tourist trip to Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna, Austria
Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna
From a tourist trip to Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna, Austria
Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna
From a tourist trip to Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna, Austria
Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna
From a tourist trip to Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna, Austria
Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna
From a tourist trip to Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna, Austria
Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna
From a tourist trip to Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna, Austria
Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna
From a tourist trip to Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna, Austria
Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna
From a tourist trip to Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna, Austria
Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna
From a tourist trip to Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna, Austria
Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna
From a tourist trip to Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna, Austria
Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna
From a tourist trip to Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna, Austria
Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna
From a tourist trip to Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna, Austria
Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna
From a tourist trip to Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna, Austria
Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna
From a tourist trip to Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna, Austria
Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna
From a tourist trip to Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna, Austria

4K Video Tour of Schonbrunn Palace

Enjoy watching this video tour of the majestic Schonbrunn Palace:


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