Entrances & how to get to Hofburg Palace
Located in the very heart of Vienna, the Hofburg Palace is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks and can be easily reached by metro, tram, or bus. Knowing the Hofburg Palace entrance and how to get there will help you plan your visit efficiently and save time during your trip.
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Where is the main entrance to the Hofburg Palace?
The main entrance to Hofburg Palace is through the Michaeler Gate (Michaelerplatz), located at the northern side of the complex. This is the most recognizable entry point, marked by the grand green copper dome and serving as the entrance for individual visitors and Vienna Pass holders.
Once you enter through the Michaeler Gate, you’ll find the ticket counter, entrance to the Sisi Museum, and access to the Imperial Apartments.
There is also a secondary entrance for groups and visitors with pre-purchased tickets, located at the Kaisertor, which leads directly to the inner courtyard of the palace.
📍 Address: Michaelerkuppel, 1010 Vienna, Austria
🚪 Entrances summary:
Michaeler Gate: Main entrance for individuals and Vienna Pass holders.
Kaisertor Entrance: Groups and valid-ticket holders.
Burggarten Access: Pedestrian route connecting the Hofburg gardens to the MuseumsQuartier.
How to get to Hofburg Palace?
The Hofburg Palace is conveniently situated in Vienna’s historic center, within walking distance from many major attractions such as St. Stephen’s Cathedral and the Vienna State Opera. The palace is also very well connected to the city’s public transport network.
Please note: If you’ve already bought your Hofburg Palace tickets online, you can head straight to the Michaeler Gate entrance and skip the ticket line. The palace is open daily, including public holidays, and all entrances are accessible for visitors with reduced mobility.
How to get to Hofburg Palace by metro
Take the U3 (orange line) and get off at Herrengasse Station. From there, it’s just a 5-minute walk to the Hofburg main entrance at Michaelerplatz.
Alternatively, you can take the U1 or U2 to Karlsplatz and walk across Burggarten to reach the palace.
How to get to Hofburg Palace by tram
Tram lines 1, 2, D, and 71 all stop at Burgring, which is directly next to Hofburg Palace. This is one of the most convenient ways to arrive if you’re staying near the Ringstrasse.
How to get to Hofburg Palace by bus
Bus lines 1A and 2A stop at Hofburg, placing you just a few steps away from the main gate at Michaelerplatz.
How to get to Hofburg Palace by train
If you’re arriving from outside Vienna, take a train to Wien Westbahnhof or Wien Hauptbahnhof, and then transfer to the U3 line (orange) towards Herrengasse. From there, it’s only a short walk to the Hofburg Palace.
How to get to Hofburg Palace by car
Driving in central Vienna is not recommended due to limited parking. However, if you choose to drive, several public parking garages are available nearby, including:
Garage Am MuseumsQuartier (Museumsplatz 1)
Parkgarage Palais Corso (Mahlerstraße 6-8)
Parking fees apply, and it’s best to book your spot in advance.
Useful information for planning your visit to Hofburg
Plan your visit by checking the Hofburg Palace ticket prices and availability in advance. Booking online allows you to secure your preferred time slot and skip long queues at the entrance. Whether you choose a Sisi Museum ticket, a guided tour, or the Sisi Pass, you’ll enjoy priority access to Vienna’s most iconic imperial landmark.
Plan your visit by checking the Hofburg Palace opening hours before you go. The palace is open daily, including public holidays, and each area — from the Sisi Museum to the Imperial Apartments — follows its own schedule. Checking the timetable in advance helps you make the most of your visit and avoid waiting lines.
Explore the layout of the Imperial Hofburg complex with an updated map that helps you locate the main attractions — from the Sisi Museum to the Imperial Apartments and the Spanish Riding School. The map is especially useful to plan your route and make the most of your visit inside this vast royal residence.
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