Naturhistorisches Museum, Vienna - A large building with a fountain in front of it
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Naturhistorisches Museum Vienna

4.8
·40k reviews·Wien, Austria

Explore millions of specimens, from dinosaur skeletons to meteorites, in Vienna's grand Natural History Museum.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more space to explore

CrowdLow
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Naturhistorisches Museum, Vienna - A large building with a fountain in front of it

Naturhistorisches Museum Vienna

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more space to explore

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore millions of specimens, from dinosaur skeletons to meteorites, in Vienna's grand Natural History Museum.

4.8
(40k reviews)

"A must-visit for its incredible dinosaur skeletons and stunning architecture!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎟️ Book Tickets Online

Save time by purchasing your Natural History Museum Vienna tickets in advance online .

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking to see all the exhibits at the Museum of Natural History Vienna .

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Dinosaur Skeletons

Dinosaur Skeletons

Hall 8-10

Marvel at towering skeletons of ancient giants like Diplodocus and Allosaurus fragilis. A must-see for any paleontology enthusiast!

Prehistoric World

Prehistoric World

Hall 8-10

Journey back in time to see early horse ancestors, flying Pteranodons, and formidable Terror Birds.

Meteorite Collection

Meteorite Collection

Hall 1

Explore one of the world's largest meteorite collections, including the famous 'Tissint' Martian meteorite.

Grand Staircase

Grand Staircase

Main Entrance Hall

Admire the stunning architecture and ornate details of the museum's magnificent central staircase.

Planning Your Visit

Beat the Crowds & Save

The Naturhistorisches Museum Vienna is a popular spot! Consider visiting on weekdays to avoid weekend crowds. Booking tickets online in advance can save time, especially during peak seasons. Check for special free admission days or discounts, as some visitors have found them.TikTok

Plan Your Visit

With over 39 exhibition halls, you could spend days here! Prioritize sections like dinosaurs, prehistoric life, or meteorites based on your interests. Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the vast collections of the Natural History Museum Vienna.Instagram

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more space to explore
Crowd
Low
When
Wednesday evenings
Why
Extended hours, fewer families
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekends
Why
Can be busy, but vibrant atmosphere
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Erstmals präsentiert das Kunsthistorische Museum Wien eine Ausstellung zum bedeutenden Barockmaler Rembrandt. Gezeigt wird eine beeindruckende Vielfalt an Hauptwerken und eine noch nie zuvor in Österreich präsentierte Fülle an internationalen Leihgaben. ⠀ ✅Kunsthistorisches Museum. ⠀ 📍Maria-Theresien-Platz, 1010 Wien ⠀ #kunsthistorisches #museum #khm #wien #vienna #viennafood #viennafoodie #vienna...
@_natalie_de
166.3K likes • 1.5M views

🎟️ Book Tickets Online

Save time by purchasing your Natural History Museum Vienna tickets in advance online.Instagram

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking to see all the exhibits at the Museum of Natural History Vienna.Instagram

Nightlife in Vienna at its finest: Groove through galleries on guided tours, surrounded by history & beats at 📍Kunstschatzi, @KHM 🎵🎨 - enjoy a night full of art, music & great drinks ✨💡 #viennatouristboard #viennanow #nightlifetok #viennaspots #nightlife
@vienna.info
105.5K likes • 1.2M views
One museum a day series. Day 11 : Natural History Museum / Naturhistorisches Museum (Part 2 | Hall 8 to 10 - Prehistoric World) ~ Halls 8–10 of Vienna’s Natural History Museum showcases early horse ancestors Mesohippus and Eohippus, flying Pteranodons and towering Terror Birds. One will marvel at giant dino skeletons like Diplodocus and Allosaurus fragilis (fragile in name only), check out a jaw...
vienna101facets
62 likes • 374 views

🗺️ Prioritize Your Visit

With 39 halls, focus on what interests you most to make the most of your time.Instagram

🏛️ Admire the Architecture

Don't miss the stunning main staircase, a highlight for many visitors.Instagram

spent the day exploring the most breathtaking natural history museum 🦕 📍naturhistorisches museum wien (vienna, austria) #naturalhistorymuseum #naturhistorischesmuseum #museumday #viennaaustria #museumdate
littlebigworld.em
0 likes • 489.4K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎟️ Book Tickets Online

Save time by purchasing your Natural History Museum Vienna tickets in advance online.Instagram

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking to see all the exhibits at the Museum of Natural History Vienna.Instagram

🗺️ Prioritize Your Visit

With 39 halls, focus on what interests you most to make the most of your time.Instagram

🏛️ Admire the Architecture

Don't miss the stunning main staircase, a highlight for many visitors.Instagram

🧐 Check for Free Days

Some visitors have found opportunities for free admission, so it's worth checking.TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.8
(40k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Naturhistorisches Museum Vienna for its immense and diverse collections, particularly the awe-inspiring dinosaur skeletons and fascinating meteorite displays. The stunning architecture, especially the grand staircase, also receives high marks. While the sheer size can be overwhelming, most find the experience incredibly educational and engaging for all ages.

"A must see Museum!

Enjoyed the Animal exhibit the most.

About 2/3 of one floor was closed for remodel, and of course, you find this out AFTER YOU BUY THE TICKET.

The Dinosaur, Prehistoric displays were amazing.

The Price was reasonable even though parts were closed.

I highly recommend this Museum….

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️"

Tomas Maybach

"A must-visit if you're spending several days in Vienna. You can explore the evolution of animals throughout history in multiple rooms, each more impressive than the last. There's an incredible collection of minerals with spectacular crystals, and a detailed presentation of the evolution of all species, including humans. Everything is well organized and clearly explained. You'll need at least three hours for a short visit. Truly spectacular!"

Pedro Escalona

"The museum was an absolutely incredible experience, offering a rich and diverse array of exhibits that captivated visitors of all ages. It showcased a wide variety of animals, both terrestrial and marine, making it a fascinating destination for nature enthusiasts and curious minds alike.

Upon entering the museum, I was immediately drawn to the extensive collection of animal exhibits. The displays ranged from majestic land mammals to exotic birds, each meticulously presented to highlight their unique characteristics and natural habitats. The attention to detail in the dioramas provided a vivid glimpse into the lives of these creatures, making the experience both educational and visually stunning.

One of the highlights was the section dedicated to sea life. The aquarium exhibits were vibrant and teeming with colourful fish, intricate coral formations, and other marine wonders. Observing the graceful movements of sea creatures like jellyfish, seahorses, and various species of tropical fish was both soothing and mesmerizing.

What made the museum particularly interesting was not just the diversity of exhibits but also the engaging information provided alongside each display. Interactive features and well-curated descriptions enriched the learning experience, appealing to both casual visitors and avid learners. Overall, the museum offered an unforgettable journey through the wonders of the natural world, leaving a lasting impression."

Artashes Stepanyan

What People Like

Vast dinosaur exhibits
Impressive meteorite collection
Stunning architecture

What People Dislike

Can be overwhelming
Crowded at peak times

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Naturhistorisches Museum Vienna is centrally located at 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 U3 to Herrengasse). Many visitors also find it a pleasant walk from other central Vienna attractions.Instagram

Parking in central Vienna can be challenging and expensive. It's generally recommended to use public transportation to reach the museum. If you must drive, there are paid parking garages nearby, such as the one at Rathausplatz.

Yes, the museum is very well-served by public transport. The closest U-Bahn stations are Volkstheater (U2, U3) and Herrengasse (U3), and several tram lines stop nearby. This makes it easy to access for everyone.Instagram

Absolutely! The museum is situated on Maria-Theresien-Platz, between the Kunsthistorisches Museum and the Hofburg Palace. It's a short and scenic walk from many major sights in Vienna's city center.

From Vienna International Airport (VIE), you can take the City Airport Train (CAT) to Wien Mitte, then transfer to the U-Bahn (U4 to Karlsplatz, then U1 to Stephansplatz, then U3 to Volkstheater) or take a regional train to Wien Hauptbahnhof and then connect to public transport. Alternatively, a taxi or ride-sharing service is available.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The Naturhistorisches Museum Vienna is typically open Thursday to Monday from 9 AM to 6:30 PM, and on Wednesdays from 9 AM to 8 PM. It is closed on Tuesdays. Always check the official website for the most up-to-date hours before your visit.Instagram

General admission for adults is around €16. Children under 19 usually get free entry. Discounts are available for students and seniors. You can purchase tickets online or at the museum.Instagram

While not always mandatory, booking your Natural History Museum Vienna tickets online in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons, to avoid long queues and guarantee entry.Instagram

Yes, visitors under 19 generally receive free admission. Some sources suggest checking for special free admission days or specific nationality discounts, though these can vary.TikTok The Vienna City Card may also offer discounts.

To ensure availability and potentially avoid queues, it's best to buy your Natural History Museum Vienna tickets online a few days to a week in advance, especially if you plan to visit during a busy period or on a Wednesday evening when hours are extended.

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Visitors rave about the impressive dinosaur skeletons, the vast meteorite collection, and the prehistoric life exhibits.Instagram The museum also boasts extensive collections in archaeology, anthropology, mineralogy, and zoology, offering something for every interest.Instagram

To truly appreciate the Naturhistorisches Museum Vienna, plan for at least 3-4 hours. If you're a keen enthusiast, you could easily spend a full day exploring its 39 halls.Instagram

Absolutely! The Naturhistorisches Museum Vienna is incredibly engaging for children, with its giant dinosaur skeletons, fascinating animals, and interactive displays. It's a fantastic family-friendly destination.Instagram

Yes, the museum offers various guided tours, often focusing on specific themes or collections. Some special events, like 'Nightlife in Vienna' tours, combine art, music, and museum exploration.TikTok Check the museum's official schedule for details.

Photography for personal use is generally permitted inside the Naturhistorisches Museum Vienna, but without flash. Tripods and professional photography equipment may require special permission. Always check for signage regarding photography restrictions in specific exhibits.

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, the Naturhistorisches Museum Vienna has a cafe located on the ground floor, offering refreshments and light snacks. It's a convenient spot to take a break during your visit.

The museum is surrounded by numerous cafes and restaurants in the city center. You can find a wide range of options, from traditional Viennese cuisine to international fare, within a short walking distance.

Generally, it's best to consume your own food and drinks outside the exhibition halls. The museum cafe is available for dining. This helps preserve the exhibits and maintain a pleasant environment for all visitors.

While specific menus can change, most cafes in Vienna offer a selection of vegetarian options. It's advisable to check with the cafe staff upon arrival for the most current vegetarian and vegan choices.

Prices at museum cafes are typically in line with city center cafes. You can expect to pay standard prices for coffee, pastries, and light meals. For more budget-friendly options, consider exploring eateries a bit further from the main tourist hubs.

📸 📸 Photography

The grand central staircase is a popular photo spot.Instagram Other great locations include the impressive dinosaur skeletons, the ornate halls, and the exterior architecture of the building on Maria-Theresien-Platz.

Tripods and professional photography equipment usually require special permission from the museum. For personal snapshots, it's best to rely on handheld shots to avoid obstructing other visitors.

No, flash photography is generally not permitted inside the Naturhistorisches Museum Vienna to protect the exhibits. Always look for signage indicating photography restrictions.

A camera with good low-light performance is beneficial for capturing the atmosphere inside the museum. A versatile lens, like a 24-70mm equivalent, will allow you to capture both wide shots of the halls and details of the exhibits.

The dinosaur hall is incredibly photogenic due to the sheer scale of the skeletons. The prehistoric world exhibits, with their detailed dioramas, and the mineral and gem collections also offer stunning visual opportunities.Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Naturhistorisches Museum Vienna is a fantastic destination for families. Children are captivated by the dinosaur skeletons and the diverse array of animal exhibits.Instagram The museum's vastness means there's always something new to discover, keeping young minds engaged.

Tips for families: Plan your visit around the dinosaur hall and the prehistoric life exhibits first, as these are often the biggest hits. Consider a mid-visit break at the museum cafe. While not explicitly mentioned, many museums offer scavenger hunts or activity sheets for children, so it's worth inquiring at the information desk.

🏛️ History Buffs

History enthusiasts will find the Naturhistorisches Museum Vienna incredibly rewarding, particularly its archaeology and anthropology collections.Reddit These sections offer a deep dive into human history, showcasing artifacts and insights into ancient civilizations and cultural development.

Beyond human history, the museum's extensive geological and paleontological exhibits provide a comprehensive timeline of Earth's history, from the formation of minerals to the evolution of life. The meteorite collection also offers a unique perspective on cosmic history.

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, the Naturhistorisches Museum Vienna offers a wealth of visual opportunities. The grand central staircase is an iconic spot, perfect for capturing architectural grandeur.Instagram The museum's halls, with their high ceilings and natural light (where available), provide a dramatic backdrop for exhibits.

Photography tips: Focus on capturing the scale of the dinosaur skeletons and the intricate details of the mineral and gem collections. Remember that flash photography is prohibited, so a camera with good low-light capabilities is beneficial. Be mindful of other visitors and avoid tripods unless you have special permission.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Vast Collections

The Naturhistorisches Museum Vienna is one of the largest natural history museums in the world, housing over 30 million specimens across its 39 exhibition halls.Instagram From the colossal skeletons of dinosaurs that once roamed the Earth to the intricate details of minerals and meteorites, the museum offers a comprehensive journey through natural history. Visitors can delve into the wonders of zoology, anthropology, archaeology, and geology, making it a treasure trove for curious minds of all ages.

Key areas that consistently draw awe include the dinosaur hall, featuring impressive skeletons like the Diplodocus and Allosaurus fragilis,Instagram and the prehistoric world exhibits, showcasing early mammals and extinct birds. The meteorite collection is another highlight, offering a glimpse into cosmic history. The sheer breadth of the collections means that even repeat visitors can discover something new with each visit.

Many visitors recommend prioritizing sections based on personal interest to avoid feeling overwhelmed. Whether you're fascinated by ancient life, the Earth's geological past, or the diversity of the animal kingdom, the Naturhistorisches Museum Vienna provides an immersive and educational experience. The museum's commitment to preserving and showcasing these natural wonders makes it a vital institution for understanding our planet's history.Instagram

Architectural Grandeur

Beyond its scientific treasures, the Naturhistorisches Museum Vienna is a masterpiece of 19th-century architecture. Built between 1871 and 1881, the museum's opulent design is as much a draw as its exhibits. The grand central staircase, adorned with intricate carvings and statues, is a particular highlight and a popular spot for photographs.Instagram The sheer scale and decorative detail of the building create a majestic atmosphere that enhances the visitor experience.

The museum's exterior, with its imposing facade and prominent location on Maria-Theresien-Platz, is a significant landmark in Vienna. Inside, the high ceilings, marble columns, and elaborate frescoes contribute to a sense of wonder and discovery. It's a space that truly complements the vastness and importance of the natural world it represents.

Many visitors are struck by the building's beauty, often sharing photos of its architectural splendor. The combination of scientific exhibits and stunning architecture makes the Naturhistorisches Museum Vienna a multi-faceted destination, appealing to both science enthusiasts and lovers of art and history.

Archaeology and Anthropology Insights

For those interested in human history, the Naturhistorisches Museum Vienna offers extensive collections in archaeology and anthropology. These halls provide a fascinating look into the development of human societies, ancient cultures, and the diversity of human populations across the globe.Instagram Visitors can explore artifacts from various historical periods and regions, gaining insights into past civilizations and human evolution.

A Reddit user specifically recommended the museum for its archaeology exhibits, highlighting them as a significant draw.Reddit This suggests that these sections are particularly well-curated and informative, offering a deeper understanding of our shared human past. From ancient tools and pottery to skeletal remains and cultural objects, these exhibits are both educational and thought-provoking.

Exploring these collections allows visitors to connect with the stories of our ancestors and appreciate the long and complex journey of humankind. The museum's dedication to these fields makes it a valuable resource for anyone seeking to understand human history and cultural heritage.

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