Complete Guide to Museums & Exhibits at Schönbrunn Palace
Opening Hours, Tickets, and Tips
Schönbrunn Palace in Vienna is not just famous for its royal rooms and decor, but also for the museums and exhibits it holds every now and then.
Visitors especially love these exhibits, as they provide an extra insight into the royal world.
From the Sisi Museum, which explores the life of the beloved Empress Elisabeth, to the Carriage Museum, where you can admire royal carriages and sleds, each exhibit tells its own unique story.
In this article, we’ll guide you through the must-see museums and exhibits and provide you with useful tips to make the most of your visit.
Does Schönbrunn Palace have museums?
While Schönbrunn Palace itself is a living museum with historic imperial rooms open to visitors, there are also dedicated museum experiences within the palace complex:
1. Children’s Museum Schönbrunn Palace (Kindermuseum Schönbrunn)
Location: Ground floor, West Wing of the Palace
Focus: An interactive museum designed for children and families, allowing them to step into the world of a young Habsburg. Explore how royal children lived, with hands-on exhibits that make history fun and engaging.
Highlights:
- Dress up in period costumes and take photos on thrones or in sedan chairs
- Experience court life through sensory play stations
- Compare the lives of royal and commoner children
- Enjoy workshops on aristocratic life, teaching etiquette and historical games
👉 Families also love the Schönbrunn Zoo, another child-friendly highlight just steps away from the palace gardens.
2. Imperial Carriage Museum Vienna (Kaiserliche Wagenburg Wien)
Location: Palace Park, Former Winter Riding School
Focus: Austria’s premier collection of imperial carriages, sleighs, and other regal transportation used by the Habsburg family. A must-visit for fans of history and royal opulence.
Highlights:
- Over 170 vehicles on display, including the famous gilded “Imperial Carriage”
- Napoleon’s son’s carriage and María Theresia’s Golden Carousel Carriage
- The “Sisi Trail,” showcasing personal items, clothing, and carriages linked to Empress Elisabeth (“Sisi”)
- Historical clothing, livery, and artifacts illustrating centuries of royal transportation
👉 To get the full picture of the estate, explore our guide to Schönbrunn Palace rooms, where history comes alive beyond the exhibits.
Common confusion: Sisi Museum vs. Schönbrunn
While the Sisi Museum focuses on Empress Elisabeth’s life, it’s located at the Hofburg Palace, not Schönbrunn.
However, Schönbrunn has its own fascinating exhibits that reveal the Habsburg family’s history. Find on the map.
While Schönbrunn Palace was the summer residence of the Habsburgs, the Sisi Museum focuses on the life of Empress Elisabeth (Sisi), offering an in-depth exploration into her personal history, royal wardrobe, and legacy within the Habsburg court.
Upcoming exhibits and events at Schönbrunn Palace
Schönbrunn Palace is where culture, food, and entertainment collide in the heart of Vienna! With events that cater to foodies, music lovers, and sports enthusiasts alike, there’s always something exciting happening here.
Check out the upcoming events and exhibits at the palace that promise to make your visit even more memorable.
1. Gerstner Imperial and Royal Court Confectioners’ Show – Apple Strudel Perfection
At the Apple Strudel Perfection show, visitors can watch expert chefs prepare the famous Austrian pastry right before their eyes. It’s a fun, interactive way to learn about this delicious treat and how it’s been a part of Austria’s royal history. You’ll also get to taste a fresh slice of apple strudel, making it a perfect experience for food lovers.
2. Wiener Blut (Viennese Blood) Operetta
The Wiener Blut operetta is a fun performance that blends love, humor, and Vienna’s rich culture. The lively story captures the joy and excitement of life in Vienna, making it a great way to experience the city’s musical traditions. You can expect a delightful evening filled with catchy tunes and plenty of laughs.
3. The Grand Table at Schönbrunn Palace
On September 6th, Schönbrunn’s Parade Court will turn into a beautiful venue for The Grand Table. This unique event features gourmet dining and cultural performances, creating a magical atmosphere. It’s a perfect chance to enjoy the stunning palace surroundings while savoring delicious food and entertainment.
👉 These cultural evenings pair perfectly with Schönbrunn’s year-round concerts, many of which are hosted in the Orangery.
4. Paul Kalkbrenner Concert
Paul Kalkbrenner’s concert will bring electronic beats to the majestic setting of Schönbrunn’s Parade Court. If you love electronic music, this high-energy performance is not to be missed. The combination of live music and the beautiful palace backdrop makes it a truly special experience.
5. Longines Global Champions Tour Vienna 2025
For equestrian sports enthusiasts, the Longines Global Champions Tour in Vienna is an exciting event. The top riders and horses from around the world compete in thrilling show-jumping events. Held in the elegant Ehrenhof of Schönbrunn Palace, it’s the perfect blend of elite sport and stunning royal surroundings.
👉 If you’re visiting in winter, don’t miss Christmas at Schönbrunn Palace, when the courtyards transform into a festive wonderland.
How to buy tickets for Schönbrunn’s exhibits and events
Planning your visit to Schönbrunn Palace and its exciting exhibits or events? Here’s a simple guide on how to purchase tickets and make the most of your experience.
For Palace Exhibits (e.g., Apple Strudel Show, Sisi Museum, Carriage Museum)
- Online Purchase:
All tickets for the events at Schönbrunn Palace can be purchased online through the official Schönbrunn Palace website.
But for amazing deals and packages at low cost, always trust online ticket vendors like GetYourGuide, Tiqets, or Viator.
- On-Site Purchase:
Tickets are also available at the palace entrance, but be prepared for potential waiting times, especially during peak tourist seasons. To avoid long queues, consider a skip-the-line guided tour, which combines museum entry with expert commentary.
For Special Events (e.g., Operettas, Concerts, The Grand Table)
- Online Booking:
For events like the Paul Kalkbrenner concert or palace concerts, visit palaceconcertsvienna.com. Select your desired date, seating category (VIP, A, B, or C), and complete your payment method. - Ticket Collection:
Tickets can be collected at the Orangery office during opening hours. Alternatively, pick them up directly before the event at the box office.
