Originally constructed as a hunting lodge during the 16th century, Schönbrunn Palace later became the favored summer retreat for the Habsburg monarchs, among them Empress Maria Theresa and Emperor Franz Joseph I. Nestled within the palace's sprawling grounds is Tiergarten Schönbrunn, the world's oldest zoo, established in the 18th century. Notably, the renowned French queen, Marie Antoinette, spent a portion of her youth within the palace walls. As the offspring of Empress Maria Theresa and Emperor Francis I, her marriage to Louis XVI of France was strategically orchestrated to fortify political ties between Austria and France. Over the years, Schönbrunn Palace has graced the silver screen in numerous cinematic and television productions, including the iconic 1965 musical film "The Sound of Music," where its majestic backdrop set the scene for memorable sequences.
The operating hours of Schönbrunn Palace fluctuate according to the season. Typically, it welcomes visitors daily from 8:30 am to 5 pm. For the latest and most accurate information regarding opening hours, it is recommended to consult the official website.
The length of your stay at Schönbrunn Palace is influenced by your preferences and the tour option you select. Typically, visitors spend approximately 2-3 hours exploring the palace and its adjacent gardens.
Schönbrunn Palace aims to accommodate all visitors by providing facilities for accessibility. Wheelchair users have access to elevators and ramps, and there are accessible restrooms on-site. It is advisable to reach out to the palace ahead of time if you have particular accessibility requirements.
Certainly! Tiergarten Schönbrunn, the oldest zoo globally, is accessible separately from the palace. Nonetheless, combination tickets are offered to visitors interested in experiencing both the palace and the zoo during their visit.