Austria Guide

Vienna Imperial Palaces & History Tours Guide

Step back in time with Vienna's imperial palaces and history tours, uncovering centuries of Habsburg legacy and Austrian grandeur.

42+ tours
From $$30
2-5 hours

Vienna, the heart of the former Habsburg Empire, is a city where history breathes through its magnificent palaces and grand boulevards. For travelers eager to delve into this opulent past, Vienna Imperial Palaces & History Tours offer an unparalleled opportunity to walk in the footsteps of emperors and empresses. These meticulously curated experiences go beyond mere sightseeing, transforming iconic landmarks into living narratives of political intrigue, artistic flourishing, and daily life within the imperial court. From the sprawling Schönbrunn Palace, the summer residence of royalty, to the majestic Hofburg Imperial Palace, the former seat of power, each tour is designed to illuminate the rich tapestry of Austria's monarchical heritage. Imagine wandering through the opulent staterooms where Empress Sisi once resided, or standing in the precise spots where pivotal historical events unfolded. These tours are not just about admiring architecture; they are about understanding the context, the personalities, and the enduring influence of the Habsburg dynasty on Vienna and beyond. Whether you're a history enthusiast, an art lover, or simply curious about the grandeur of imperial Europe, these excursions provide a deep and engaging insight into a bygone era. TopTours.ai aggregates a wide selection of these tours, allowing you to compare options, itineraries, and prices from various reputable operators, ensuring you find the perfect way to immerse yourself in Vienna's imperial legacy.

Featured Vienna Imperial Palaces & History Tours Tours

Discover our top picks for vienna imperial palaces & history tours in Austria

Vienna: Skip-the-Line Schönbrunn Palace & Gardens Tour
From $66.41
Free Cancellation🔥Likely to Sell Out

Skip the lines and enjoy the exclusive Highlights Tour of 22 rooms of Schönbrunn Palace and Gardens with a Licensed Guide. Discover the history and legends of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Highlights: • Visit Schönbrunn Palace, Vienna’s #1 attraction, with a 5-Star Licensed Guide • Skip the long lines with our pre-booked timed tickets for quick access • Enjoy the exclusive Highlights Tour of 22 rooms available only to official partners • Admire the formal gardens, courtyards, fountains, sculptures, Gloriette, and more • Learn about the power and wealth of the imperial House of Habsburgs Join an official Schönbrunn partner for an unforgettable 2,5-hour tour of Schönbrunn Palace and Gardens in Vienna. Enjoy exclusive perks such as live commentary in 1 selected language and exclusive access to rooms not available on a regular tour without a Licensed Guide. Book now for a 5-star cultural journey beyond the guidebook!

4.6(843)
2h 30m
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Skip-the-Line Schonbrunn Palace Guided Tour and Vienna Historical City Tour
From $81.83
Free Cancellation

Experience the best of Vienna, including the Schönbrunn Palace, on this 3.5-hour city highlights tour by bus. Drive along the famous Ringstrasse boulevard to admire buildings such as the Vienna State Opera, City Hall and Hofburg Palace, once home of Marie Antoinette. Then, see the extravagant staterooms of the Schönbrunn, the summer residence of the Habsburg monarchs, and get free time to stroll its gardens or relax at the café. All the tours will be carried out in small groups. This tour could be operated multilingually (English, Spanish, German at the same time).

3.7(941)
3h 30m
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Hofburg Imperial Palace and Sisi Museum Skip the line tour
From $56.93
Free Cancellation

On this tour you will visit the Hofburg imperial palace, where you will have a guided tour of both the Sisi Museum and the Imperial Apartments. With origins dating back to the Middle Ages, the Hofburg palace grew exponentially between the 16th and 20th century and up to today still counts 18 buildings, 19 courtyards and over 2500 rooms. Where once the Habsburg imperial family used to live, work and party, a world of politics, gossip and history opens its doors for us as a UNESCO world heritage site museum. Forget about tv shows and fiction! Join this walking tour and hear about the real life of Empress Elisabeth, also known as Sisi. During the short walk, visit the church where the Habsburgs got married at (even Marie Antoinette, who was born and raised in Vienna!). We will also see the stables where the famous Lipizzan horses on the way to the entrance to Hofburg. After the visit of the palace, the tour will end in the stunning Volksgarten, one of Vienna’s most popular picture spots.

4.1(62)
2h
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Vienna Walking Tour, Hofburg Palace, St Stephen’s Cathedral
From $37.36
Free Cancellation

Wander beyond Vienna’s Historic Center to discover its imperial treaures and hidden gems! Discover the best things to do in Vienna: St. Stephen's Cathedral, Hofburg Palace Complex, Spanish Riding School, Vienna Sate Opera, Albertina and more! HIGHLIGHTS: • Discover the best things to do in Vienna with a 5-Star Licensed Local Guide • Marvel at the beauty of St. Stephens’ Cathedral and St. Peter’s Church • Hear the true story of Sisi as you explore the Hofburg Palace Complex • Explore must-see sights: State Opera, Albertina, Spanish Riding School and more • Enjoy expert commentary with great history and fun legends at every turn This immersive walking tour of the Old Town is all you need to discover Vienna’s world heritage sites, historic palaces, iconic churches and lesser-known gems. With years of experience in leading tours in Vienna, our Expert Guides make it a fun and educational experience for solo travelers, couples and families.

4.3(29)
2h
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Belvedere Palace and Garden Guided Tour
From $59.89
Free Cancellation🔥Likely to Sell Out

Step into a world of imperial splendor and artistic genius on an exclusive guided tour of Vienna’s magnificent Belvedere Palace. Once the lavish summer residence of Prince Eugene of Savoy, this Baroque masterpiece now houses one of Europe’s finest art collections. Stroll through its UNESCO-listed halls, where marble staircases, frescoed ceilings, and gilded chandeliers evoke 18th-century grandeur. Outside, elegant gardens with fountains and sculptures offer breathtaking views of Vienna’s skyline. The palace’s crown jewel is Gustav Klimt’s "The Kiss," a golden masterpiece of love and passion. The collection also features works by Schiele, Kokoschka, Van Gogh, and Monet. History unfolds in the Grand Marble Hall, where the Austrian State Treaty was signed in 1955. Whether for art, history, or its romantic gardens, Belvedere Palace promises an unforgettable experience.

3.8(4)
2h
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Belvedere Palace and Museum Tour
From $177.89
Free Cancellation

Discover the Belvedere complex on a two-and-a-half-hour history tour with a scholar guide and familiarize yourself with an architectural masterpiece of a bygone aristocratic splendor. After the one-hour excursion to the grounds and palaces, your guide will give you an introductory hour-and-a-half tour to point out the Art Museum’s highlights.

4.8(70)
2h 30m
View Details
Skip-the-line Schonbrunn Palace Rooms & Gardens Private Tour
From $269.33
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

Enjoy our Top Rated Tour of the fabulous Schönbrunn Palace & Garden with a Licensed Private Guide. Choose one of our excellent tour options tailored to your needs and interests: 2-hour: Highlight Tour of Palace & Garden During a 2-hour Highlight Tour you will admire 24 amazing rooms inside Schonbrunn Palace and explore the Garden, Gloriette and surrounding areas. 3-hour: Highlight Tour of Palace & Garden with Transport Join the Highlight Tour to explore 24 amazing rooms inside Schonbrunn Palace as well as its fabolous Garden and Gloriette. Includes an 1-hour round trip transfer. 2,5-hour: Grand Tour of Palace & Garden Choose Grand Tour to explore 40 amazing rooms of the Schonbrunn Palace, including ceremonial and representative halls, along with the Garden, Gloriette and surrounding areas. 3,5-hour: Grand Tour of Palace & Garden with Transport Join the Grand Tour to explore 40 amazing state rooms of the Schonbrunn, its Gardens and Gloriette. Includes a 1-hour round trip transfer.

4.6(82)
2h
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Vienna: Schönbrunn Palace Gardens Private Guided Tour
From $160.94
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

Time to get to know the fabulous Schönbrunn Gardens! Stroll through Schlosspark, admire the Angel Fountain and Gloriette. Optional: Skip the lines to explore the opulent Schönbrunn Palace and dive into Austria’s imperial history and stunning architecture. Choose one of our excellent tour options tailored to your needs and interests: 1-hour: Schönbrunn Garden & Gloriette Hill Tour In the 1-hour tour, you will discover amazing history and fascinating facts about Schönbrunn Gardens, Gloriette Hill, and Schönbrunn Palace (viewed from the outside) and surrounding area. 2-hour: Schönbrunn Palace & Gardens with Gloriette Hill Tour In the 2-hour highlights tour you will explore 22 amazing rooms inside Schönbrunn Palace. Also tour the Schönbrunn Gardens, Gloriette Hill, and surrounding area. Experience the grandeur of Schönbrunn Palace Gardens with Rosotravel on a private tour led by a 5-Star Licensed Guide. Avoid large crowds and uncover the beauty of imperial Vienna at your own pace.

4.2(15)
2h
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Vienna Hofburg Palace Skip-the-Line Ticket Sisi Museum Tour
From $251.54
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

Famous Hofburg Imperial Palace stands proudly in the middle of Old Town and awaits your visit. Get inside easily with your group and see Imperial Apartments, Sisi Museum and all Austrian heritage during one guided tour! Highlights: - Visit Hofburg Imperial Palace the Top 1 Attraction in Vienna with 5-Stars Guide - Avoid long queues and enjoy Skip-the-Line tickets to Hofburg Imperial Apartments, Sisi Museum and even Silver Collection! - Learn the history of Vienna, Habsburgs Family and Austrian heritage inside Palace Complex - Find out selected secrets about this place and residents who lived here - See the stunning Silver Collection and learn about Princess Sissi colorful life During your stay in Vienna you can’t miss the Hofburg Imperial Palace Complex. It was the residence of the Habsburgs for over 600 years and thus the centre of the Holy Roman Empire.

4.7(36)
2h
View Details
Hofburg Palace, Sisi Museum Vienna Skip-the-Line Guided Tour
From $251.54
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

How true to facts is The Empress? Find out on a private tour of the Sisi Museum and Imperial Apartments in Hofburg Palace. Choose one of our excelalent tour options tailored to your needs and interests: 2-hour: Hofburg Palace (No Transfer) Discover the secrets of the Hofburg Imperial Palace! Visit the Sisi Museum and the Imperial Apartments with skip-the-line tickets. 2,5-hour: Hofburg Palace & Transfer Book an estimated 30-minute round-trip transfer and a 2-hour tour of the Hofburg Imperial Palace! Visit the Sisi Museum and the Imperial Apartments. 3-hour: Hofburg Palace & Treasury (No Transfer) Discover the secrets of the Hofburg Imperial Palace! Visit the Imperial Treasury, the Sisi Museum and the Imperial Apartments with skip-the-line tickets. 4-hour: Hofburg Palace, Treasury & Old Town (No Transfer) Discover the Hofburg Imperial Palace and Vienna's Old Town! Visit the Imperial Treasury, the Sisi Museum and the Imperial Apartments. See St Stephen's Cathedral.

4.5(60)
2h
View Details
Private Vienna Full-Day Tour with Schönbrunn Palace Entry & Lunch
From $290.56
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour🔥Likely to Sell Out

Discover Vienna’s rich heritage on this immersive full-day private tour, blending imperial grandeur, local flavor, and iconic landmarks. Begin your journey at the World War II Memorial on Morzinplatz, reflecting on the city’s wartime history and spirit of resistance. With your local companion wander through elegant squares and centuries-old streets, uncovering traces of ancient Roman ruins and pausing at the Plague Column — a striking emblem of Vienna’s resilience. Admire the soaring beauty of St. Stephen’s Cathedral before indulging in authentic Viennese cuisine at the vibrant Naschmarkt. Continue toward the Hofburg Palace, once the opulent residence of the Habsburgs, and delve into the fascinating life of Empress Sissi. Conclude your day with a tranquil stroll through the Schönbrunn Gardens and enjoy skip-the-line access to Schönbrunn Palace — a magnificent finale to your exploration of Vienna’s past and present.

4.8(13)
6h
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Schönbrunn Palace and Gardens Tour
From $177.89
Free Cancellation🔥Likely to Sell Out

Visit the Baroque gem in Austria’s crown on this small-group half-day Schönbrunn Palace tour in Vienna. Follow a historian guide through the palace’s ornate gardens, and admire fine views over the pretty hilltop archway. As you explore, listen as a guide brings the House of Habsburg era to life. Then, step through the palace’s beautiful bedrooms and suites, and marvel at the ornate decorations in the Great Gallery, the Hall of Ceremonies, and the Yellow Salon. Enjoy personal attention from your guide on this small-group tour, limited to six people.

4.9(120)
2h 30m
View Details
Private Schönbrunn Palace and Gardens Tour
From $557.4
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour🔥Likely to Sell Out

Explore the house and gardens of the jewel in Vienna’s crown on this private half-day Schönbrunn Palace tour. Choose a morning or afternoon tour, then follow a private guide through UNESCO–listed Schönbrunn Palace’s beautiful gardens. Admire sweeping views from the Gloriette, then head inside — where the opulent Hall of Ceremonies, the Porcelain Room, the Millions Room, and the Millions Chamber await. Along the way, admire the palace’s beautiful interior and gain insight into the House of Habsburg — once one of Europe’s most powerful monarchies.

4.9(46)
3h
View Details
Private Belvedere Palace and Museum Tour
From $557.4
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour🔥Likely to Sell Out

Discover Belvedere complex on a two-and-a-half-hour history tour with a scholar guide and familiarize yourself with an architectural masterpiece of a bygone aristocratic splendor. After the one-hour excursion to the grounds and palaces, your guide will give you an introductory hour-and-a-half tour to point out the Art Museum’s highlights.

4.6(14)
2h 30m
View Details
Private Tour of the Belvedere Palace with an Art Historian: "Pictures of Austrian Identities". Art & History Tour with Skip-the-line Tickets
From $225.33
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour🔥Likely to Sell Out

How would you describe Vienna - the capital of culture? The birthplace of the waltz? The birthplace of psychoanalysis? All of these, and more, are true characteristics of the Austrian capital. The Genius Loci (spirit of place) is packed with details and you won't find them in quite as many places as in Belvedere. Do you want to discover what works of art from the different eras can tell you about the specific Austrian and Viennese identity? Then take a tour of the Belvedere and gain an insight into the different facets of the national character. In Gustav Klimt's golden "Judith" and "The Kiss" we can explore why female sexuality is the focus of medical interest in Vienna. The troubling mood of Egon Schiele's "Embrace" and "The Girl and Death" can also help us understand why this city became the birthplace of psychoanalysis. The ornate baroque decoration of the palace, the accent on the ancient heroic themes will explain the special imperial atmosphere of the city, in which the Viennese live and in which tourists so eagerly dive. And Ferdinand Waldmüller's pellucid paintings will try to enchant us by showing the famous "Viennese cosiness" and we have to make an effort to see what tragedies lie behind these well-marketed images. The gilding of medieval altars and Klimt's golden masterpieces, the sparks of intellectual life and Viennese humour that glimmer through the sombre paintings of Egon Schiele and Oskar Kokoschka - what really makes this famous palace's collection shine? And what exactly shows us the true face of the (former imperial) capital? The answers to these questions await you in the galleries of Belvedere Palace.

5.0(25)
2h 15m
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Why Choose Vienna Imperial Palaces & History Tours in Austria?

Immersive Storytelling

Go beyond facts and figures with expert guides who bring the history of Vienna's imperial past to life.

Access to Iconic Landmarks

These tours focus on Vienna's most significant imperial sites, offering in-depth exploration of their historical importance.

Curated Historical Narratives

Understand the context of events, the lives of rulers, and the cultural impact of the Habsburg era.

Convenient Itineraries

Structured tours make it easy to visit multiple palaces and historical points of interest efficiently.

Diverse Perspectives

Compare tours offering various approaches, from comprehensive palace deep-dives to thematic historical walks.

Value for Money

Find tours that offer excellent insights and access, often including skip-the-line options for a smoother experience.

Types of Vienna Imperial Palaces & History Tours in Austria

Palace & Grounds Exploration Tours

These tours offer in-depth visits to Vienna's most famous imperial residences, such as Schönbrunn Palace and the Hofburg Palace. Expect to explore grand staterooms, private apartments, and often the surrounding gardens and parks, with guides detailing the history and lives of their royal inhabitants.

Schönbrunn PalaceHofburg Imperial PalaceImperial ApartmentsSisi MuseumGardens & Parks Access

Imperial History Walking Tours

Focusing on the historical narratives of the Habsburg dynasty, these tours often cover significant city center landmarks connected to imperial life. You'll discover hidden courtyards, former imperial residences, and sites of key historical events, all explained through engaging storytelling.

Historical City CenterHabsburg Dynasty FocusKey Historical SitesThematic NarrativesOutdoor Exploration

Thematic & Specialized Tours

For those with specific interests, these tours delve into particular aspects of Viennese imperial history, such as the life of Empress Sisi, the Spanish Riding School's imperial connections, or the architectural evolution of the Hofburg complex. They offer a more focused and detailed perspective.

Empress Sisi FocusSpanish Riding SchoolSpecific Palace WingsArt & Architecture FocusSmaller Group Options

Private & Custom Imperial Tours

These tours offer a personalized experience, allowing you to tailor your itinerary to your specific interests and pace. With a private guide, you can delve deeper into the aspects of Vienna's imperial history that fascinate you most, often with exclusive access or a more flexible schedule.

Private GuideCustomizable ItineraryFlexible TimingDoor-to-Door Service (sometimes)Ideal for Groups/Families

What to Expect on Vienna Imperial Palaces & History Tours

Duration

Tours typically range from 2 to 5 hours, depending on the scope and number of palaces or sites visited. Shorter walking tours might last 2-3 hours, while comprehensive palace explorations can extend to 4-5 hours.

Weather

Vienna experiences distinct seasons. Tours often involve significant walking, so check the forecast and dress in layers. Umbrellas or raincoats are advisable during cooler months or for potential showers.

Group Size

You can find tours ranging from intimate private experiences for a few people to larger group tours. Smaller groups generally allow for more interaction with the guide and a more personalized experience.

What's Included

Most tours include the services of a knowledgeable guide and admission to specified palaces or attractions. Some may offer skip-the-line access, audio guides, or entrance to specific exhibition rooms. Always check the tour description for inclusions.

Meeting Point

Meeting points are usually at or near the primary attraction, such as outside Schönbrunn Palace or within the Hofburg complex. Specific instructions will be provided upon booking.

Costs

Prices vary based on duration, group size, and inclusions, typically ranging from $30 for shorter walking tours to $150+ for private, multi-hour experiences. Entrance fees are often included.

Expert Tips for the Best Experience

1

Book Schönbrunn Palace and Hofburg Palace tours in advance, especially during peak season, to secure your preferred time slots and avoid long queues.

2

Consider a guided tour for the Hofburg Palace complex; it's vast and has multiple museums (Sisi Museum, Imperial Apartments, Silver Collection), making a guide invaluable for context.

3

Wear comfortable shoes! You'll be doing a lot of walking, both indoors and potentially in palace gardens.

4

Check if your tour includes skip-the-line access. This can save you significant time, particularly at popular attractions like Schönbrunn.

5

If you're interested in a specific era or ruler, look for thematic tours. Tours focusing on Empress Sisi, for example, offer a unique perspective on imperial life.

6

Combine palace tours with a walking tour of the historic city center to get a broader understanding of the Habsburgs' influence on Vienna.

7

Bring a refillable water bottle, especially during warmer months, as you'll be doing a lot of exploring.

8

Some tours offer language options other than English; check availability if that's important to you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q:What is the best way to see Schönbrunn Palace?

A: For the most enriching experience, a guided tour is highly recommended. These tours not only cover the opulent Imperial Tour of the palace rooms but often provide insights into the history of the gardens, the Gloriette, and the zoo, bringing the former summer residence to life.

Q:How much time should I allocate for a Hofburg Palace tour?

A: A comprehensive visit to the Hofburg, including the Sisi Museum, Imperial Apartments, and Silver Collection, with a guided tour, typically requires at least 3-4 hours. If you're only visiting one section or opting for a shorter walking tour, 2 hours might suffice.

Q:Are there tours that focus on Empress Sisi?

A: Yes, many Vienna imperial history tours specifically highlight Empress Sisi, exploring her life, personal belongings, and the spaces she frequented within the Hofburg and Schönbrunn. These often offer a more intimate look at the Empress's world.

Q:Can I visit the Spanish Riding School as part of an imperial history tour?

A: While not always a standard inclusion, some specialized tours or private custom options can arrange visits to the Spanish Riding School, focusing on its historical significance within the imperial court and its tradition. Check individual tour details carefully.

Q:What's the difference between a walking tour and a palace tour?

A: Palace tours focus on in-depth exploration of specific imperial residences like Schönbrunn or Hofburg, detailing their architecture, interiors, and royal inhabitants. Walking tours cover a broader historical area of the city, connecting various landmarks and historical events related to the Habsburgs and their empire.

Q:Are these tours suitable for families with children?

A: Many palace and history tours are engaging for older children and teenagers, especially those with interactive guides. Shorter tours or those with a focus on visual spectacle tend to be more captivating for younger audiences. It's always wise to check age recommendations when booking.

Q:Do I need to book tickets for imperial palaces separately if I take a tour?

A: Generally, when you book a guided tour that includes palace visits, the entrance fees and ticket arrangements are handled as part of the tour package. This often includes skip-the-line benefits, saving you time queuing.

Don't Miss the Perfect Austria Experience

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Why Visit Austria?

Experience breathtaking Alpine scenery and charming historic cities in beautiful Austria.

Discover imperial palaces and musical heritage in Vienna, Austria's vibrant capital.

Enjoy world-class skiing and hiking trails, perfect for active holidays.

Immerse yourself in centuries of history at medieval castles and Baroque architecture.

Savor delicious Sachertorte and explore local markets for authentic Austrian flavors.

Connect with genuine hospitality amidst stunning natural landscapes and rich culture.

Best Time to Visit

Weather

Check local weather forecasts for the best time to visit.

Best Months

Spring and fall offer the best weather for most destinations.

Peak Season

Summer months are typically the peak season with higher prices and crowds.

Off Season

Winter months offer lower prices and fewer crowds, though weather may be less ideal.

Plan Your Austria Trip

Transportation Tips

Getting around Austria is exceptionally convenient thanks to its efficient public transport system. The national railway company, ÖBB, connects major cities and smaller towns with comfortable and punctual trains. For exploring cities like Vienna or Salzburg, trams, buses, and the U-Bahn (subway) are readily available and affordable. Car rentals offer flexibility for exploring rural areas and the scenic routes of the Alps, though parking can be challenging in historic centers. Consider purchasing a rail pass for extensive travel across Austria to save money.

Car Rental Deals in Austria

Rent a car for maximum flexibility and explore at your own pace on Expedia USA.

Where to Stay

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Best Hotel Deals in Austria

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