Vienna has always been living up to its nickname of “the City of dreams” as this city is truly dreamy with an abundance of majestic architecture. Much of the architecture has existed since the 17th Century, and are the pride and soul of Vienna. For the architecture lover, this article is all for you! Ready or not, let’s go through these 6 amazing spots together!
The Baroque Schonbrunn Palace
When people think of Vienna, many will be familiar or know the existence of the famous Schonbrunn Palace. The Schonbrunn Palace is a very important site not only for its imposing architecture, but for its place in Austrian culture and history as well. Designed by architects Johann Bernhard Fischer von Eriach and Nicolaus Pacassi, this palace is the main summer residence of the Habsburg Emperors.
Thousands of visitors come all the way to Vienna to see the Schönbrunn Palace and take strolls in the Palace Gardens every year. The Gardens is as grand and extensive as the building, covering over an area of 200 hectares ( 500 acres) and designed in Baroque style as well. Fountains and sculptures adorned the area and the world’s oldest zoo is situated at the Schönbrunn park as well!
The views accompanied by the glorious architecture is stunning and it is highly encouraged for everyone to make an afternoon’s time for this place! ( Fun fact : young Mozart performed his first concert to Empress Maria Theresa right here at the palace when he was just six years old!)
Address: Schlosstrasse 47, Vienna 1130 Austria
Opening Hours: Saturdays and Sundays, 8am-5.30pm
The Hofburg Vienna
The Vienna Hofburg is one of the most valued buildings in Austrian history. For over 600 years, this building had accommodated the Habsburgs during the Habsburg Dynasty, the emperors of the Holy Roman Empire and independent Austria itself until the end of the monarchy.
With a perimeter that extends over 240,000m² , it consists of 18 wings, 19 courtyards and 2,600 rooms. Today, the Hofburg Palace is a residence and office of the Austrian President, as well as open to visitation at some areas - a part of the National Library as well as collections and museums.
Address: Michaelerkuppel, Vienna 1010 Austria
Opening Hours: Everyday, 10am-5pm
Rathaus
Rathaus is also known as Vienna's City Hall and it is the most important secular building designed in a neo-Gothic style between 1872 and 1883.
Situated at one of the busiest squares in Vienna ( Rathausplatz), the Rathaus houses the office of the Mayor of Vienna as well as members of the city council.
The scene at Rathausplatz is one of a kind, as all throughout the year,special events like film festivals, circus and food exhibitions are held in and around the square. A workspace in the day, the Rathaus lights burst to life during the Christmas season as a ice skating rink
Address: Friedrich-Schmidt-Platz 1 , 1010 Wien
Opening Hours: Everyday 10am-6pm
Karlskirche
Located on the south side of Karlsplatz in Vienna, Karlskirche is a Baroque church and one of the city’s greatest buildings. This architecture has a unique mix to its style inspirations - mainly Baroque and Renaissance styled, they are incorporated with a touch of ancient Greek and Roman elements by the giant dome and columns.
The Karlskirche church was built in honor of Saint Charles Borromeo, who attended to Milanese plague victims in the 16th century. You need a ticket to enter this glorious building but it is definitely worth it!
Address: Kreuzherrengasse 1, 1040 Wien, Austria
Opening Hours: Monday-Saturday , 9am-6pm // Sunday, 12-7pm
Belvedere Museum and Palace
Last but not least, the Belvedere is another iconic eye-catching art museum, an ensemble of various buildings and gardens in central Vienna. The Belvedere grounds are composed of two main sections : the Upper Belvedere and the Lower Belvedere.
The interior of the Belvedere Museum inside is equally as impressive as the exterior : it showcases a permanent collection primarily dedicated to Austrian art throughout history, from the Middle Ages to contemporary art today, and other artworks from other European countries. Do give this place a visit and a whole afternoon will be gone by just spending time here!
Address: Prinz Eugen-Straße 27, 1030 Wien, Austria
Opening Hours: Friday, 9am-9pm, Saturday to Thursday, 9am-6pm
6 amazing architecture spots, 6 amazing places to sightsee and spend a day of fun as well! Vienna is truly the land of stunning architecture and you might need more than 3 days to cover all of these incredible works of history. With that, have a happy adventure!
