Schmetterlinghaus Vienna
A magical Art Nouveau palm house in Vienna, home to hundreds of free-flying exotic butterflies in a lush tropical setting.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more magic
Schmetterlinghaus Vienna
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more magic
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A magical Art Nouveau palm house in Vienna, home to hundreds of free-flying exotic butterflies in a lush tropical setting.
"It’s such a charming little place—photos really don’t do it justice."
🎯 Go Early or Late
Avoid peak times for a more serene experience. Weekday mornings are ideal.
🧥 Dress Lightly
It's warm and humid inside! Leave heavy jackets at the coat hangers.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
A Flutter of Exotic Butterflies
Tropical Rainforest Enclosure
Hundreds of vibrant butterflies from various species gracefully fly around you in a lush, humid environment.
Art Nouveau Architecture
The Palm House
Step into a stunning historic Art Nouveau palm house, a beautiful setting for the tropical flora and fauna.
Tranquil Oasis
Indoor Garden
Find a peaceful escape amidst the greenery, small waterfalls, and the gentle dance of butterflies.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds for a Magical Experience
Embrace the Tropical Climate
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Go Early or Late
Avoid peak times for a more serene experience. Weekday mornings are ideal.
🧥 Dress Lightly
It's warm and humid inside! Leave heavy jackets at the coat hangers.
📸 Capture the Moment
Butterflies are photogenic, but be patient and respectful of others.
📍 Location, Location!
Nestled in the Burggarten, near Hofburg Palace. Easy to combine with other sights.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Go Early or Late
Avoid peak times for a more serene experience. Weekday mornings are ideal.
🧥 Dress Lightly
It's warm and humid inside! Leave heavy jackets at the coat hangers.
📸 Capture the Moment
Butterflies are photogenic, but be patient and respectful of others.
📍 Location, Location!
Nestled in the Burggarten, near Hofburg Palace. Easy to combine with other sights.
💰 Reasonable Entry Fee
Tickets are around €10, offering good value for a unique experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Schmetterlinghaus a charming and magical escape, praising its beautiful tropical setting and the enchanting presence of hundreds of butterflies. While some note it's a small attraction and can get crowded, the unique experience and reasonable entry fee make it a worthwhile visit for many.
"You just have to see it for yourself. It’s such a charming little place—photos really don’t do it justice. The atmosphere is magical, especially when it’s not crowded and you can really take in the beauty of all the butterflies fluttering around and the "jungle" they live in.
It’s not a big place, but that’s part of its charm. I’d definitely recommend going when it’s quieter, so you can feel the true magic of the butterflies up close. It’s one of those spots that leaves you smiling long after you leave! 🥰🦋🌸"
Jasmina Sockovic
"I recently visited the Butterfly House in Vienna and overall had a lovely experience. The place is very beautiful, with a nice variety of butterflies fluttering around. However, it did seem like one particular type of butterfly was dominating the space, which was a little underwhelming considering the expectations for more diversity.
The greenery inside is lush and well-maintained, and the small waterfalls throughout really add to the atmosphere, mimicking a real-life tropical ecosystem beautifully. It’s a very charming and peaceful setting — at least it would be if it wasn’t so crowded. The space itself feels a bit too small for the large number of visitors, which made it harder to fully enjoy the experience.
The entrance fee is €10, which is reasonable given the uniqueness of the place. It’s also situated in a lovely area surrounded by nice cafés, making it a great spot to plan a day around.
I would recommend expanding the space a bit and introducing more types of butterflies to enhance the experience even further. Overall, I’m giving it four stars — definitely worth a visit if you’re in Vienna, but be prepared for some crowds."
Ali El Refai
"The Butterfly House is a charming but very small attraction. When we visited, it was extremely crowded, and the narrow paths made it difficult to move around. We often found ourselves stuck in a slow-moving line, as people stopped ahead and behind us to take photos, making the experience feel more like a human traffic jam than a peaceful stroll. The butterflies are beautiful and photogenic, but the species variety is not big. It’s a nice quick stop if you’re already nearby, but not necessarily a must-see."
Avital Rubichi
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Schmetterlinghaus is located in the Burggarten, near the Hofburg Palace in Vienna's first district. You can easily reach it by public transport, with several tram and bus lines stopping nearby. The nearest U-Bahn stations are Stephansplatz (U1, U3) and Herrengasse (U3), both a short walk away.
Yes, the Schmetterlinghaus is very accessible by public transport. Many tram and bus routes serve the area around Hofburg Palace and Burggarten. The closest U-Bahn stations are also within walking distance.
Absolutely! The Schmetterlinghaus is situated within the Burggarten, which is adjacent to the Hofburg Palace complex. It's a very short and pleasant walk between the two.
For families, public transport is convenient. Consider using trams or buses that stop close to the Burggarten. Walking from Hofburg Palace is also a great option if your children enjoy short strolls.
While there isn't direct parking at the Schmetterlinghaus, there are several underground parking garages in the vicinity of the Hofburg Palace and the city center. However, public transport is generally recommended to avoid parking hassles.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee for the Schmetterlinghaus is approximately €10 per adult. Prices can vary slightly, so it's always a good idea to check the official website for the most current information.
While advance booking isn't always mandatory, it's recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons or weekends, to secure your entry and avoid potential queues.
The Schmetterlinghaus typically opens in the morning and closes in the late afternoon. Hours can vary seasonally, so it's best to check the official website for the most up-to-date opening times before your visit.
Discounts may be available for students, seniors, or children. It's advisable to inquire at the ticket counter or check the official website for any applicable concession rates.
Information regarding the acceptance of the Vienna Pass can vary. It's recommended to check the official Vienna Pass website or contact the Schmetterlinghaus directly to confirm if it's included in the pass.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally allowed inside the Schmetterlinghaus. However, it's important to be mindful of other visitors and avoid using flash, as it can disturb the butterflies.
Early mornings or late afternoons, when the light is softer and crowds are thinner, can be ideal for photography. This allows for more opportunities to capture the butterflies in their natural flight.
While tripods are usually not permitted in crowded areas, smaller cameras and phones are fine. Always be considerate of the space and other visitors when setting up for a shot.
You can expect to capture stunning close-ups of various butterfly species, vibrant tropical plants, and the beautiful Art Nouveau architecture of the palm house.
Be patient and wait for butterflies to land. Focus on their wings and patterns. Use a macro lens if possible, or zoom in carefully with your phone.
🎫 🌿 Onsite Experience
Inside, you'll find a warm, humid, tropical environment filled with lush plants, small waterfalls, and hundreds of free-flying butterflies. It's designed to mimic a rainforest ecosystem.
The Schmetterlinghaus is a relatively small attraction. Most visitors spend between 30 minutes to an hour exploring the space and observing the butterflies.
While the butterflies are beautiful, the enclosed tropical environment may be intense for those with phobias of insects or spiders. Some visitors have mentioned this.
The primary experience is observing the butterflies in their habitat. There aren't typically interactive exhibits, but the immersive environment itself is the main attraction.
It is consistently warm and humid inside, designed to replicate a tropical rainforest. It's recommended to wear light clothing.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no dining facilities directly within the Schmetterlinghaus itself. However, the adjacent Palmenhaus Brasserie offers a place to eat and drink with views of the Burggarten.
The Palmenhaus Brasserie typically serves a range of Austrian and international dishes, as well as coffee and pastries, in a beautiful setting.
Yes, the area around Hofburg Palace and the Burggarten is filled with numerous cafes and restaurants, offering a wide variety of culinary options.
Generally, bringing outside food and drinks into such attractions is discouraged to maintain the environment and cleanliness. It's best to consume them outside or at designated areas.
Visitors often recommend exploring the charming streets around the Hofburg for authentic Viennese cuisine. Some mention places like Ponykarussell for a beautiful dining experience.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pro-tip for families: Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and ensure your children have ample space to observe the butterflies without feeling overwhelmed. The warm, humid environment can be a fun sensory experience for younger ones.
📸 Photographers & Content Creators
Best advice for photographers: Aim for the golden hours (early morning or late afternoon) for softer lighting. Be patient, as butterflies can be elusive, and try to capture them in flight or resting on flowers. Remember to be respectful of other visitors and avoid disruptive flash photography.
❤️ Couples & Romantic Outings
Recommendation: Combine your visit with a coffee or a meal at the adjacent Palmenhaus Brasserie for a complete romantic outing. Visiting during quieter hours will enhance the tranquil and romantic ambiance.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Enchanting World of Butterflies
Many visitors describe the atmosphere as magical and charming, especially when the crowds are thin. The sheer number of butterflies, some of which are quite large, can be awe-inspiring. It's a place where you can slow down, appreciate nature's beauty, and feel a sense of wonder.
While the variety of species might not be as extensive as some larger butterfly conservatories, the intimate setting and the sheer abundance of butterflies create a unique and memorable experience. It's a perfect spot for a peaceful escape and a delightful photographic opportunity.
A Glimpse into History and Architecture
Located near the Hofburg Palace, the former imperial residence, the Schmetterlinghaus is part of a historically rich area of Vienna. Its presence in the Burggarten, a beautiful public park, adds to the charm and accessibility of the attraction. The combination of historical architecture and natural beauty makes it a unique destination.
Visiting the Schmetterlinghaus offers not only a chance to see butterflies but also to appreciate the architectural heritage of Vienna. The building itself is a work of art, contributing significantly to the overall enchanting experience.
Tips for the Best Visit
Dress appropriately for the tropical climate inside; it's warm and humid, so light clothing is recommended. Leave heavy coats at the provided hangers to ensure comfort.
Photography is encouraged, but be mindful of other visitors and avoid using flash, which can disturb the butterflies. Patience is rewarded, so take your time to capture the beauty around you.
Finally, remember that the Schmetterlinghaus is a relatively small attraction, so a visit typically lasts between 30 minutes to an hour. It's a perfect addition to a day of exploring the nearby Hofburg Palace and Burggarten.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit