Kunsthistorisches Museum
A grand 19th-century palace housing vast collections of Old Master paintings, imperial treasures, and ancient artifacts.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene viewing
Kunsthistorisches Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene viewing

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A grand 19th-century palace housing vast collections of Old Master paintings, imperial treasures, and ancient artifacts.
"The museum itself is just as beautiful as the works themselves."
Book Special Exhibits Early
Timed tickets for popular exhibitions like Bruegel can sell out. Book online in advance!
Don't Miss the Cameos
The Roman cameo collection is world-class and often overlooked. A true gem!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Picture Gallery
Gemäldegalerie
Home to masterpieces by Old Masters, including Bruegel, Titian, and Caravaggio. A must-see for art lovers.

Imperial Treasury
Schatzkammer
Marvel at the Habsburgs' dazzling crown jewels, ceremonial objects, and precious artifacts.

Egyptian and Near Eastern Collection
Ägyptisch-Vorderasiatische Sammlung
Explore ancient artifacts, including sarcophagi and the stunning collection of Roman cameos.

The Museum Cafe
Central Dome Hall
Often called the most beautiful cafe in the world, offering a stunning setting for a break.
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Special Exhibits
Embrace the Grandeur
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Special Exhibits Early
Timed tickets for popular exhibitions like Bruegel can sell out. Book online in advance!
Don't Miss the Cameos
The Roman cameo collection is world-class and often overlooked. A true gem!
Cafe with a View
The museum cafe under the dome is stunning. Go early to snag a seat!
Wear Comfy Shoes
This museum is vast! You'll be doing a lot of walking, so comfortable footwear is key.
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Special Exhibits Early
Timed tickets for popular exhibitions like Bruegel can sell out. Book online in advance!
Don't Miss the Cameos
The Roman cameo collection is world-class and often overlooked. A true gem!
Cafe with a View
The museum cafe under the dome is stunning. Go early to snag a seat!
Wear Comfy Shoes
This museum is vast! You'll be doing a lot of walking, so comfortable footwear is key.
Consider a Museum Pass
If visiting multiple Vienna museums, a pass might save money. Research options.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Kunsthistorisches Museum for its breathtaking architecture and world-class art collections, especially the Old Masters. The stunning cafe is a major highlight, offering a beautiful setting for a break. However, some find the ticket prices high and note that popular temporary exhibitions can require separate, costly tickets.
"Magical visit… history comes alive in front of your eyes … the building itself is almost ad gorgeous as the art. The exhibits are varied including artifacts from various ages (Roman, Egypt etc) and the exhibit halls are gorgeous. There are further rooms with various European paintings and a coin collection on the top floor. Overall it is about a 3-4 hour trip and totally worth the visit!"
Vida Kianzad
"World top five museum. I have spend days in here and still have not had enough.
If you grew up in America in the 70s playing Masterpiece you will recognize no fewer than 5 paintings here. AMAZING!
Even if you don’t like the collection (weirdo!) it’s still worth visiting the Most Ornate Cafe on Earth under the rotunda.
The waiters there are divas that somehow see themselves as victims of an awful fate, failing to appreciate the extraordinary beauty of the room nor and the wonderful people flowing in from all over the world.
The cafe always has an unnecessary line. You can only avoid it my arriving when the museum opens at 10AM.
Google made me edit this post because one photos partially showed the buttocks of a bronze statue. That is absurd and completely unacceptable.
ANYTHING on display in a great museum is worthy of sharing ."
Brian Withani (Curiosity Creator)
"超过想象的好。It completely exceeded my expectations. If you love oil paintings, don't miss this place. The works of masters like Bruegel and Raphael are lifelike. It's not crowded, so you can enjoy it quietly. I recommend going to the second floor of the cafe for viewing and taking photos."
Richard W.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Kunsthistorisches Museum is centrally located on Maria-Theresien-Platz. You can easily reach it by public transport, including trams (lines 1, 2, D, J) and the U-Bahn (U2, U3 to Volkstheater or Museumsquartier stations). It's also a pleasant walk from many central Vienna attractions.
While there isn't dedicated museum parking, several public parking garages are available nearby, such as the Garage am Hof or the Parkgarage MuseumsQuartier. However, using public transport is generally recommended due to potential traffic and cost.
Yes, the museum is very walkable from the heart of Vienna. It's situated on the Ringstrasse, a short stroll from St. Stephen's Cathedral and other major landmarks.
Public transport is highly efficient in Vienna. The U-Bahn and tram lines provide excellent access to the Kunsthistorisches Museum (KHM Museum). Consider purchasing a Vienna Pass for unlimited public transport and museum entries.
Absolutely. The museum is well-served by Vienna's extensive public transport network, making it easily accessible for all visitors.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices can vary, especially for special exhibitions. General admission for adults is typically around €21, with concessions available for students and seniors. Check the official website for the most current pricing and consider a Vienna Pass for potential savings.
For general admission, tickets can usually be purchased on-site. However, for highly popular temporary exhibitions, booking timed-entry tickets online in advance is strongly recommended to guarantee entry.
Yes, discounts are often available for students, seniors, and children under 19. The Vienna Pass also includes entry to the museum and can be a cost-effective option if you plan to visit multiple attractions.
The museum is typically open daily from 10 AM to 6 PM, with extended hours until 9 PM on Thursdays. It's always best to check the official website for the most up-to-date opening hours, as these can change for special events or holidays.
Yes, you can purchase tickets for general admission and special exhibitions online through the official Kunsthistorisches Museum website. This is highly recommended for popular exhibits to secure your preferred time slot.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
Highlights include Bruegel's 'The Hunters in the Snow,' Titian's 'The Entombment of Christ,' Caravaggio's 'The Fortune Teller,' and Vermeer's 'The Art of Painting.' The Egyptian and Near Eastern Collection, and the Imperial Treasury are also essential.
Yes, an audio guide is usually available for the Kunsthistorisches Museum, offering insights into the collections and artworks. You can often download the museum app for digital guides and maps.
The museum is vast, and to truly appreciate its collections, allocate at least 3-4 hours. If you want to see everything, you could easily spend a full day.
Yes, guided tours are often offered in various languages, providing a deeper understanding of the art and history. Check the museum's schedule for availability and booking information.
Many visitors are captivated by the grand central dome hall, which houses a magnificent cafe. The opulent architecture throughout the museum, including the staircases and ceilings, is also a major draw.
🍽️ ☕ Food & Dining
Yes, the museum boasts the renowned Cafe im Kunsthistorisches Museum, located under the main dome. It's celebrated as one of the most beautiful cafes in the world and offers a delightful spot for refreshments.
The cafe offers a selection of pastries, cakes, coffee, tea, and light meals. It's a perfect place to take a break and soak in the magnificent surroundings.
Typically, you can access the cafe without a museum ticket, but it's always best to confirm this with the museum directly, especially during peak hours or special events.
Reservations are highly recommended, especially for weekend brunch or during busy periods, to ensure you get a table. Walk-ins are welcome on weekdays.
Given its stunning location and reputation, prices at the cafe are on the higher side, but many find it worth the experience for the ambiance and quality.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography for personal use is generally permitted in most areas of the Kunsthistorisches Museum, but without flash. Tripods and professional equipment may be restricted. Always check for signage or ask staff if unsure.
The main restriction is usually on flash photography, as it can damage delicate artworks. Some special exhibitions might have stricter rules, so be mindful of any posted notices.
The grand staircase, the central dome hall with its cafe, and the opulent interiors of the Picture Gallery offer fantastic photo opportunities. Don't forget to capture the stunning architecture itself.
Yes, you can photograph most artworks for personal use, but without flash. This allows you to capture the beauty of the masterpieces for your memories.
Absolutely! The cafe is incredibly photogenic. Try to go early to capture its beauty with fewer people around.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider downloading the museum app which often includes interactive elements or a family-friendly guide. The grand dome hall itself is awe-inspiring for children, and the cafe offers a pleasant break. For younger children, keep visits shorter and focus on a few key areas to avoid overwhelming them. Comfortable shoes are a must for everyone!
💰 Budget Travelers
Look for potential discounts for students or seniors. While the cafe is beautiful, it can be expensive; consider bringing your own snacks and water to enjoy in designated areas or finding more budget-friendly food options outside the museum.
🎨 Art Enthusiasts
Check the museum's website for any temporary exhibitions that might be on during your visit, as these often feature unique and significant collections, such as past Bruegel retrospectives. Consider an audio guide or joining a guided tour for deeper insights into the artworks and their historical context.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Masterpieces of the Old Masters
Many visitors are particularly drawn to the Bruegel collection, which is considered the most significant in the world. However, be aware that specific popular works, like 'The Hunters in the Snow,' have sometimes been part of temporary exhibitions requiring separate tickets, which has caused frustration for some visitors.
Beyond the famous names, the museum's collection also includes significant works by Rubens, Velázquez, and Dürer, making it a treasure trove for art history enthusiasts. The sheer volume and quality of the paintings mean you could spend days exploring this section alone.
The Imperial Collections
Another fascinating collection is the Egyptian and Near Eastern Collection, which features an impressive array of artifacts, including sarcophagi, statues, and the renowned collection of Roman cameos. These cameos, carved from semi-precious stones, are considered the finest and most extensive in the world, offering a unique window into ancient artistry and portraiture.
These collections provide a broader context to the museum's artistic offerings, demonstrating the historical significance and cultural impact of the Habsburg Empire. They are essential stops for understanding Vienna's imperial past.
The Iconic Museum Cafe
Visitors rave about the stunning setting, describing it as a 'magical' or 'most beautiful' spot for a coffee break. It's a perfect place to rest your feet after exploring the vast collections and to simply soak in the grandeur of the museum. While it can get busy, especially on weekends, the experience is widely considered worth it.
While the cafe is known for its aesthetic appeal, it also serves a selection of pastries, cakes, and light meals. It's a popular spot for both museum-goers and locals, offering a touch of elegance to your visit. Reservations are recommended, particularly for weekend brunch.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit