Habsburg Vienna: Emperors, Court and Power
Six centuries of dynasty between palace, crypt and church
TopicWien- Duration
- 2.0 hours
- Languages
- German, English
For more than 600 years the Habsburgs ruled a vast empire from Vienna. Your guide shows you where their power, ceremony and family drama can still be seen today.
The Hofburg was far more than a palace. It was the seat of government, a family home and the stage of an elaborate court. Walking through its courtyards, you will see how a medieval castle grew into a sprawling imperial quarter, with almost every ruler adding a wing of his own.
The Habsburgs married in the Augustinian Church, their hearts rest in its Heart Crypt and their bodies in the Imperial Crypt. Your guide explains this unusual burial tradition and shares stories of Maria Theresa, Joseph II and Franz Joseph.
Along the way there is time for your questions, for the people behind the portraits and for what became of the dynasty after 1918. The tour is private and priced per group.
Highlights
- Hofburg courtyards, Amalienburg and Heldenplatz
- Augustinian Church, the Habsburg wedding church
- Imperial Crypt with the tombs of the imperial family
- Stories from Maria Theresa to Franz Joseph
- Private tour with a licensed Austrian guide
The route
-
1Michaelerplatz
The gateway to the Hofburg, with the Michael Wing and Roman excavations.
-
2Swiss Courtyard
The oldest part of the palace and home of the Imperial Treasury.
-
3Heldenplatz
The great square in front of the New Castle tells of the last grand expansion.
-
4Augustinian Church
Court church, wedding church and site of the Heart Crypt.
-
5Imperial Crypt
The burial place of the Habsburgs on Neuer Markt.
Who this tour is for
Ideal for history lovers, first-time visitors and anyone who wants to understand Vienna as an imperial capital.
Frequently asked questions
Are entrance fees included in the price?
No. Entrance fees, for example to the Imperial Crypt or the Treasury, are not included and are paid on site.
Can the tour be combined with a museum visit?
Yes. On request we include the Treasury or the Sisi Museum and extend the tour accordingly.
