On Maria-Theresien-Platz in Vienna, the Kunsthistorisches Museum houses art and objects collected by the Habsburgs. Its galleries range from Egyptian and Greek antiquities to Renaissance and Baroque paintings, with works by Bruegel, Vermeer, Rubens, Titian and Caravaggio. The building is part of the visit: look for the grand staircase, marble columns and richly decorated interiors. Set aside several hours if you want to see more than the Picture Gallery; the Egyptian-Oriental collection and Kunstkammer offer a different way into the museum’s holdings.
A museum built for the Habsburg collections
The Kunsthistorisches Museum stands on Maria-Theresien-Platz, opposite the Natural History Museum. Emperor Franz Joseph commissioned the building to house the Habsburg collections and open them to the public. The museum opened in 1891, after construction that began in 1872.
The collections grew over centuries of Habsburg rule. They include paintings and objects from across Europe, alongside antiquities from Egypt, Greece and Rome. The scale is considerable, so a visit works best with a plan: choose a few galleries that interest you, or allow much of the day to explore more broadly.
Start with the building, then choose a collection
The museum’s palatial setting is part of its appeal. Inside, the grand staircase, marble columns and elaborate decoration give the galleries an imposing frame. Take a moment to look around the entrance spaces before heading to the collections.
The Picture Gallery is a natural choice for visitors interested in European painting. It brings together works by artists including Pieter Bruegel the Elder, Vermeer, Rubens, Titian, Rembrandt and Caravaggio. The museum holds the largest collection of Bruegel paintings, including well-known works such as The Tower of Babel, Peasant Wedding and Hunters in the Snow. If you have limited time, focus on this gallery rather than trying to cover the entire museum.
Antiquities and the Kunstkammer
The Egyptian-Oriental collection and the Greek and Roman antiquities provide a change of pace from the paintings. The ancient collections include sculptures and other objects; the museum also has a coin collection. Together, they give the visit a broad span, from ancient material to European art of later centuries.
The Kunstkammer, or art chamber, is another worthwhile stop. Its holdings include sculpture and decorative arts, with crafted objects that reward a closer look. An audio guide can help explain what you are seeing, especially if you want more context for individual artworks and objects.
The museum runs occasional activities beyond the regular gallery visit. KunstSchatzi combines cocktails and a DJ, while a mystery hunt takes participants through the Egyptian-Oriental collection. Check the programme before planning around either event.
Preguntas frecuentes
What can you see at the Kunsthistorisches Museum?
The collections include European paintings, Egyptian-Oriental objects, Greek and Roman antiquities, coins, and sculpture and decorative arts in the Kunstkammer.
Which paintings are highlights?
Look for works by Bruegel, Vermeer, Rubens, Titian, Rembrandt and Caravaggio. The museum has the largest collection of paintings by Bruegel the Elder.
How long should you spend at the museum?
Allow at least half a day for a substantial visit. The collections are extensive, and a full day gives you more time to explore.
Is there an audio guide?
Yes. An audio guide is available to provide additional context for the artworks.
