Imperial Palace (Hofburg)

The Basics

A visit to the Hofburg is a popular inclusion on Innsbruck city tours, and walking tours of the Old Town often include at least a photo stop outside the grand palace. Visitors can also explore the magnificent interiors, including the state rooms and imperial apartments. Highlights include the Giant’s Hall, with its stunning ceiling frescoes; the Guard Room, covered with paintings of the Hapsburgs; the Furniture Gallery; and the opulent Empress Elisabeth Apartment.

Things to Know Before You Go

• There is an admission fee for the palace; entrance is included with the Innsbruck Card and free for children.

• The Hofburg is also home to the Sacher Café Innsbruck, a branch of the famous Viennese coffeehouse. Be sure to try the world-renowned Sacher torte chocolate cake.

• Audio guides, included with the entrance fee, are available in multiple languages including English.

• The palace is wheelchair-accessible.

How to Get There

The Hofburg is located at the northern end of Innsbruck Old Town. It’s easy to reach the landmark on foot, just a short stroll from the Golden Roof and the Court Church (Hofkirche) or a 15-minute walk from Innsbruck train station.

When to Get There

The palace is open daily all year round from morning to late afternoon; last entrance is at 4:30pm. Visitors with children should opt for a Sunday visit, when entrance is free for kids and up to two accompanying adults.

A Walking Tour of Innsbruck Old Town

The Hofburg is one of a number of historic attractions in Innsbruck’s Old Town, and a walking tour is the most convenient way to explore. After visiting the Imperial Palace, head to the neighboring Hofkirche, which houses the impressive cenotaph of Maximilian I, then stop to admire architectural landmarks such as the Golden Roof and Helbling House along Herzog-Friedrich-Strasse. Other notable highlights are the 18th-century Cathedral of St. James, the Stadtturm watch tower, and the Tyrolean State Museum.

What is the Imperial Palace (Hofburg) known for?

Located in the heart of Vienna, the imperial residence was home to the powerful Habsburg family from the 13th century to the 20th century. Behind the Baroque exterior, an assortment of architectural styles spans 2,000 rooms. The landmark is one of Vienna’s most popular attractions. It houses several museums and the offices of the Austrian presidency.

Are Imperial Palace and Hofburg Palace the same?

Yes. The two names are used interchangeably. Unless you’re talking about Kyoto, people in Vienna know that “Imperial Palace” only means one thing: the Hofburg. The name translates to “Castle of the Court.” The Hofburg started as a medieval castle before becoming one of the world’s biggest palace complexes.

How much time do I need at the Imperial Palace (Hofburg)?

That depends; count on an hour per attraction. The palace complex includes the Sisi Museum, which displays several personal items belonging to the Impress Elisabeth, the lavishly decorated Imperial Apartments, and the Silver Collection, with silver tableware used for courtly dining. There’s also the Spanish Riding School and the Imperial Treasury.

Which is better, Schönbrunn Palace or the Imperial Palace (Hofburg)?

That depends—each is worth seeing. Both buildings were imperial residences: Schönbrunn was the bigger and more lavish summer palace, while the royal family lodged in the more centrally located Hofburg during the winter months. The royal gardens are a big draw in Schönbrunn, so Hofburg might be more practical on a rainy day.

Is the Imperial Palace (Hofburg) included in the Vienna Pass?

Yes—and the Schönbrunn Palace, as well as over 70 of Vienna’s other attractions. Even without the special pass, you’ll only pay one admission fee to enter all three museums within the Imperial Palace (the Treasury and Riding School are ticketed separately). Tickets are valid for a year, so you can stagger visits.

Are tours available of the Imperial Palace (Hofburg)?

Yes. The palace offers guided tours daily in English, German, and Italian during the summer. There is also an audioguide available in 13 languages to the Silver Collection and Imperial Apartments. Plenty of Vienna-based private tour operators also include stops at the Imperial Palace if you’d like a customized experience.