Kunsthistorisches Museum Vienna Guided Tour

Bypass the crowds and enjoy a small-group guided tour through the Renaissance and Baroque masterpieces at Kunsthistorisches Museum. For a more personalized experience, opt for a private tour, allowing you to enjoy one-on-one attention from your expert guide, tailored to your pace and interests.

Getting started

Your experience begins at the museum's entrance, where your guide will be waiting at the right end of the entrance stairs, next to the group ticket counter (Container 2). After a brief ticket check and security screening, your English-speaking guide will provide an introduction to the highlights of the museum.

A world of priceless imperial artifacts

Opened in 1891, the Kunsthistorisches Museum stands as a beacon of Vienna's cultural grandeur, housing an unmatched collection of European art. In the Picture Gallery, you’ll encounter masterpieces by the most renowned artists of all time. Marvel at Raphael’s Madonna of the Meadow, the serene beauty of Vermeer’s The Art of Painting, and the profound emotional depth captured in Rembrandt’s Self Portrait. You’ll also be entranced by Breughel the Elder’s monumental Tower of Babel and the dramatic energy of Rubens’ powerful paintings, each one representing pivotal moments in the evolution of European art.

The Kunstkammer offers an unparalleled view of rare treasures, such as Benvenuto Cellini’s golden Saliera, a masterpiece of Renaissance goldsmithing, and the Madonna of Krumau, reflecting the Habsburgs' passion for collecting extraordinary and unique objects. These artifacts, each with its own fascinating backstory, speak to the opulence and cultural fascination of a bygone era.

After your guided exploration, you're free to delve deeper into the museum’s ancient collections. From majestic Greek sculptures to finely crafted Roman busts and authentic Egyptian mummies, these exhibits allow you to journey back in time to the ancient civilizations that shaped the course of human history.

Know before you go

What to bring

• Have a valid photo ID with you for smooth entry, especially if you're collecting pre-booked tickets or taking advantage of student or senior discounts.

• Bring a light jacket or shawl as the museum’s air conditioning keeps the galleries comfortably cool, even on warmer days.

• Keep cash or a card handy for purchases at the museum shops and cafés, where you can buy souvenirs, art books, or enjoy a slice of traditional Viennese cake before leaving.

What’s not allowed

• Flash photography and tripods are not allowed, as they can damage the artwork and disturb other visitors.

• Large bags, backpacks, and umbrellas should be left in the cloakroom or lockers.

• Smoking is not permitted inside the museum, including all indoor areas and public spaces.

• Only pencils are allowed for sketching or painting; colored pens, markers, and paints are not permitted in the galleries.

• Please refrain from bringing food or drinks into the exhibition halls.

Accessibility

• The museum is fully accessible for visitors with mobility challenges, featuring ramps and elevators for easy access to all floors.

• Complimentary wheelchairs are available at the entrance; you can reserve one in advance or upon arrival.

• Accessible restrooms are located throughout the museum.

• Visitors with hearing impairments can request a sign language interpreter for guided tours; we recommend booking in advance to ensure availability.

• Service animals are welcome to assist guests with visual or mobility impairments.

Additional information

• Check your email the day before the tour for any important updates or changes.

• Meeting points and transfer options may vary based on the tour you selected, so be sure to refer to your booking confirmation for specific details.

• The small-group tour requires a minimum of 4 participants; if this number isn’t met, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

• Skip-the-line tickets provide a reserved entry slot, but you will still need to go through ticket control and security checks.

• Transfers and tickets to the Imperial Treasury are not included in the 2-hour tour.

• A licensed guide can lead groups of up to 14 people. Larger groups will require additional guides, which may increase the cost.

• The 3- and 5-hour tours include approximately 1 hour of round-trip transfer between the meeting point and your accommodation, depending on traffic and distance.

• Private transfers include pick-up and drop-off at your accommodation in Vienna, with a standard car (sedan) for 1 to 4 people, and a larger van for 5 or more. You can opt for a 5-person tour to secure a larger vehicle.

• Children under 19 can enter the museum for free.

• The museum frequently hosts temporary exhibitions, so check with reception or staff for any special displays during your visit.