Menu toggle
The Schönbrunn Palace

The Schönbrunn Palace

Vienna, Austria

Ever fancied a 1400 room palace as a wedding present? This was the fate of Maria Theresa, Queen of Bohemia, when in the 1750s a former hunting site was remodelled into an impressive and opulent estate. Holding magnificent balls, operas in the Orangerie, and even a six year old Mozart’s concert in the Hall of Mirrors, Vienna’sSchönbrunn Palace is a true wealth of the past.
 
Lying just a short train journey outside of central Vienna, Schönbrunn (meaning "beautiful spring"),offers both a grand palace and sweeping grounds to explore. Once the centre of court life, signs of wealth are still clear as ever; Bohemian crystal chandeliers hang from gilded ceilings, and Indian and Persian miniatures decorate one of the finest Rococo rooms in the world. Each space has its own absorbing story to tell, and continues to be used for weddings, classical music concerts and important conferences.  
 
Visits are also made for the gardens alone, as the estate not only boasts leafy walks and spectacular views of the city, but also a number of unexpected features. As well as the Orangerie, Palm House, and Great Parterre, a short walk uphill takes you to the Gloriette – an impressively intricate structure designed by Maria Theresa to deify Hapsburg power, now used as a cafe and observation deck. Those bringing children may enjoy a trip to Tiergarten Zoo, a baroque menagerie that claims to be one of the oldest in the world.
 
In order to grasp the true majesty and scale of the estate, it is recommended that a full day is taken out, as queues typically begin to form from 10am. Those wishing to explore in calmer surroundings should plan their visit for late afternoon, when the crowds have died down and photo opportunities are improved. Comfortable footwear is also advised.

Share this article:

Subscribe to newsletter

close

Subscribe to our newsletter

Sign up here and get the latest news and updates delivered directly to your inbox

You can unsubscribe at any time