Maze Schönbrunn

Take part in the Grand Tour of Schönbrunn Palace to learn about the Viennese dynasty and get a glimpse into the old imperial world. Walk through the elaborate themed rooms from Sisi’s private chambers and beauty salon, to the Marie Antoinette room which was used to host family dinners. Marvel at the opulence of the Rococo décor that makes Schönbrunn Palace so unique – including the Room of Mirrors in which Mozart played his first performance as a child. Take in the plush carpets, huge paintings and silk wallpapers – there’s nothing underwhelming about this imperial summer residence!

Schönbrunn Palace is so vast that it is home to Vienna’s zoo, which also holds the title of the oldest zoo in the world. Built in 1752 by Emperor Franz I Stephan, Maria Theresa’s husband, it started off as a mere menagerie – now it attracts over 2million visitors a year to view the collection of rare animals. Recent record breaking events include the rare, natural conception of a baby panda Fu Long. With over 500 animal species, the Schönbrunn Zoo is considered one of the best and most modern zoo, with its historic charm ever present. Further information on Schönbrunn Zoo can be found here.

Marvel at the lavish carriages of the imperial family in the palace's Carriage Museum. The collection includes the elaborate carriage built for the coronation of Joseph II in 1764 - which weights 4000 kgs! - and was hand painted and carved by Franz Xaver Wagenschön. Further information on the Imperial Carriage Museum Vienna can be found here.

It was Joseph II who opened the palace gardens to the public in 1779. The design and garden architecture of the complex still bears the signature of his mother, Empress Maria Theresa. The park reflects the baroque concept of the palace, according to which architecture and nature had to interpenetrate. The park should also be a symbol of imperial power, which is expressed, for example, in the strictly symmetrical beds of the Great Parterre, which you shouldn't miss with the botanical garden.