St. Stephen’s Cathedral stands on Stephansplatz in Vienna’s historic centre. Its Gothic stonework and vivid patterned roof, decorated with the Austrian eagle and Vienna’s coat of arms, make it easy to recognise from across the city. Inside, look for the high ceilings, stained glass, stone pulpit and side chapels. You can also visit a tower for views over Vienna: the South Tower involves a long stair climb, while the North Tower has an elevator. The main space is free to enter; some areas require tickets.
A landmark on Stephansplatz
St. Stephen’s Cathedral, also called Stephansdom, occupies Stephansplatz in Vienna’s historic centre. A church stood here from the 12th century; the building developed over several centuries, with Romanesque and Gothic elements. The Romanesque Giant Gate and Heathen Towers are among the surviving reminders of an earlier phase. Later work added the Gothic choir and chapels.
The cathedral remains an important religious building in Vienna as well as a central city landmark. Its towers rise above the surrounding streets, while the patterned roof gives the exterior a distinctive look from close up and across the city.
Roof, interior and cathedral treasures
Take time to look at the roof tiles, which form patterns including the Austrian double-headed eagle and the coats of arms of Vienna and Austria. The stone exterior has detailed carvings and sculptures. Walking around the building gives you different views of its façades and towers.
Inside, the high ceilings and stone columns draw the eye upward. Stained glass brings colour into the nave, and the Gothic stone pulpit is one of the interior’s notable details. The cathedral also has altars, chapels and a high altar. Its cathedral treasure includes relics decorated with gold and precious stones, liturgical texts and books, and vestments. Access to some areas and sights requires a ticket.
Choosing a tower
The South Tower is the taller of the two visitor towers. Reaching its viewing area means climbing about 343 steps on a narrow spiral staircase, so allow for a strenuous ascent. From above, you can look across Vienna’s rooftops and historic centre.
The North Tower is a different option if you prefer not to climb stairs: it has an elevator. Both towers provide a chance to see the cathedral’s roof and the city from above. Check the current ticket and access arrangements before your visit, as the towers are separate experiences.
The catacombs below the cathedral
The catacombs are underground burial chambers beneath St. Stephen’s Cathedral. They were used as a cemetery from the 12th to the 18th centuries and contain the remains of people including royalty, bishops and other prominent Viennese. The chambers include urns, caskets, statues and bones.
You can visit the catacombs only on a guided tour. This makes the visit different from exploring the cathedral’s main space independently, and gives you a way to learn about the history of burial beneath the church. Check tour availability and ticket arrangements before you go.
Preguntas frecuentes
Is St. Stephen’s Cathedral free to enter?
The main cathedral space is free to enter. Some areas, including the towers and catacombs, require tickets.
How many steps are there to the South Tower?
The South Tower climb involves about 343 steps on a narrow spiral staircase.
Can you take an elevator up a tower?
Yes. The North Tower has an elevator. The South Tower is reached by stairs.
Can you visit the catacombs without a guide?
No. Access to the catacombs is by guided tour.
