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Vienna: Schonbrunn vs. Hofburg Palace

Hi, Does anyone have an opinion on which I should chose to tour? I can only tour one, and don't care about the time involved to get to Schonbrunn. Just want to see the best one. Many thanks,
Kristen
New York, NY

Posted by
852 posts

.. and there's the oldest zoo in Europe at Schönbrunn. Bitte Affen Nicht Necken! (don't tease the monkeys)... Gute Reise! P.

Posted by
258 posts

I didn't tour insdie Schonbrunn Palace. However I did see some of the gardens, fountains, and then went to the zoo. I loved the zoo - you can get so close to the animals and it has a lovely layout.

Posted by
216 posts

For a more intensive history lesson, go to the Hofburg (it's not just one building, but has been added onto since the 1600s). Close by is the Schatzkammer (Imperial Treasure Museum) you can visit on your own. Also not far to walk is the Kaisergruft (Imperial Sepulchre) - creepy but fascinating in its funereal splendor.

Of course, if you want to walk outdoors in a large park after the tour, choose Schönbrunn. And yes, the Zoo and the Conservatory with its nearby Butterfly House also has its charm. But you can visit zoos in a lot of places. An imperial casket? Only in downtown Vienna.

Posted by
220 posts

Having seen both, I can't recommend one over the other. Both are "must see" sites. I would flip a coin.

Posted by
20 posts

Ok, thanks everyone! I will try to do both--or parts of both. Or just plan on going to Vienna more than once!