Vienna’s imperial palaces aren’t just for history lovers, they’re fantastic destinations for families too. With interactive exhibits, spacious gardens, and special tours designed for younger visitors, exploring Schönbrunn, Hofburg, and Belvedere can be both entertaining and educational. Here are the top palace tours for families in Vienna that blend history with hands-on fun.
Schönbrunn Palace Children’s Museum
At the Schönbrunn Palace, kids can experience royal life firsthand in the Children’s Museum. Here, they’ll learn how imperial children lived, dressed, and played centuries ago. Costumes are available to try on, letting young visitors transform into princes and princesses for a day. The tour includes hands-on exhibits, miniature furniture, and engaging storytelling that brings history to life.
After the tour, families can enjoy the Maze and Labyrinth or visit the nearby Vienna Zoo, the world’s oldest and one of Schönbrunn’s top family attractions. Tickets can be reserved in advance from our Schönbrunn Palace ticket page.
Hofburg Palace Family Discovery Tour
The Hofburg Palace offers guided tours that make history accessible for all ages. The Imperial Apartments and Sisi Museum include family-friendly audio guides filled with fascinating stories about Empress Elisabeth and Emperor Franz Joseph. Many kids are intrigued by the detailed royal costumes, sparkling jewelry, and ceremonial traditions of the court.
During summer, special themed tours introduce young visitors to the daily lives of servants and guards perfect for curious minds who enjoy behind-the-scenes stories. Plan your visit by booking through our Hofburg Palace ticket page.
Belvedere Palace Art Adventure for Kids
Belvedere Palace isn’t only for art enthusiasts, it also offers engaging workshops and activity tours for families. Children can explore the museum’s highlights, including Gustav Klimt’s The Kiss, through interactive storytelling and creative drawing sessions. Guides encourage kids to express what they see and feel, turning an art visit into a fun and inspiring experience.
After the tour, the palace gardens provide plenty of open space to run, play, and take family photos among fountains and sculptures. Family entry tickets can be booked on our Belvedere Palace ticket page.
Vienna’s Seasonal and Outdoor Palace Events
Throughout the year, Vienna’s palaces host seasonal events that are perfect for families. During winter, Christmas markets at Schönbrunn and Belvedere feature carousels and festive workshops for children. In summer, open-air concerts and garden picnics provide a relaxed way to experience royal Vienna in the sunshine.
Tips for Families Visiting Vienna’s Palaces
- Book online tickets in advance to skip queues, especially at Schönbrunn.
- Use family passes or combo tickets for better value if visiting multiple palaces.
- Bring snacks and water, most palace gardens have picnic-friendly areas.
- Plan indoor and outdoor activities for balance: museums, gardens, and cafés all offer great breaks for kids.
Vienna’s palaces make history exciting for all ages. With a little planning, your family can enjoy a day filled with royal adventures, creative learning, and unforgettable moments amid Austria’s imperial beauty.