As I mentioned in another post if your goal is to visit the palace, consider also strolling the grounds it makes a nice ensemble and other attractions are also accessible on-site.

We know that the palace is imposing and an important part of Austrian history. UNESCO has recognized this place with its garden as a World site heritage for its quality of conservation, its Baroque style and also for its history.

The palace was constructed more than 375 years ago.  Of course, it has been updated from time to time and while the original purpose was a hunting place, it became the summer residence of the Austrian Monarchy.  From the 1,400 and more rooms that the Habsburg family palace has, only a few, about 45, are actually now open to the public.

Franz Joseph was the last monarch who resides at the Schönbrunn Palace.  Two years after his passing, in November 1918, Charles I announced the end of the monarchy rule and the palace became the property of the Austrian Republic who is in charge of the preservation and maintenance.

The palace exterior facade was not what I expected. I was, to be honest,  a bit disenchanted but the inside is lovely. Is it the experience that kicks in…  oh no, I’m getting old. That being said, it is part of the history of Vienna and I think that a visit to Vienna is not complete without a visit to Schönbrunn.

There are two possible tours available: the Imperial Tour showing about 20 rooms and the Grand Tour showing 40 rooms.

Do not expect to wander around and ask questions to the staff.  There is no staff around.  To me, it is a surprise. You just listen to your audio guide or your guide and you move from one room to the other.

For an overview of Vienna click here.

For all posts on Vienna click here.

For all posts on Schonbrunn click here.