Do you dream of slipping into the clothes and roles of children from the past and immersing yourself in times gone by? At the Schönbrunn Palace Children's Museum in Vienna, there are lots of interesting things to discover about the everyday life of the imperial family: How did they dress? How was the imperial table set? What was hygiene like?
Children's Museum © Schönbrunn Palace Group
In the 12 rooms on the first floor of the palace, everything revolves around life in the 18th century, i.e. the time of Maria Theresa. Topics such as hygiene and hairstyles, fashion, servants, toys, education or food and dining are attractively presented in the rooms at interactive stations.
During OPEN HOURS, you can explore the museum on your own at any time. Using a picture wheel, you can learn about the differences between imperial children and children of the people.
You can play with the toys of yesteryear, learn the language of the fan - a great secret language - or set the "imperial table"! Our large costume and dress-up corner is of course available to all visitors to the children's museum and everyone can dress up as a prince or princess.
Children's Museum © SKB, Hans Eder
Hello, may I introduce myself? I'm Poldi, the good spirit of Schönbrunn!
Actually, I've been here at the palace forever, well - as long as Schönbrunn Palace has existed.
And that was quite a few years ago! Since then, I've experienced quite a few things here, believe me!
Strictly speaking, no one can see me, so I've peeked through many a crack and hidden in various corners and learned some interesting things in the process.
So I could tell you stories about Maria Theresa ...
or about Sisi and her Franzl ...
... but I'm a secretive spirit, yes, yes!
It hasn't been so much fun in the castle for a while now:
Almost only adults are out and about and only rarely do children come by, and that makes me quite sad. I love them sooooooo much!
That's why I'm particularly happy if you come and visit me at Schönbrunn Palace Children's Museum as often as possible. Then there will be something really going on again in these old walls. Maybe I'll see you on a visit to the children's and family area at Schönbrunn Palace? I'd be really, really pleased!
So see you soon! I can hardly wait to get to know you!
Your POLDI
Workshop: Making funny carnival glasses
During the Vienna semester break, you can design your very own pair of carnival glasses in Poldi's craft workshop. With our brightly colored carnival glasses, you'll have an important accessory in your bag for all occasions during the carnival season. They are made from colorful chenille wire and can also be decorated with die-cut paper motifs.
Poldi, our mascot, will be making an appearance on Wednesday, February 7. Get an autograph card from him. He will be happy to pose for photos with you.
February 5 to 13, 2024
Themed tour: rejoicing, hustle and bustle, merriment
It is widely known that the imperial family loved to party.
But what exactly? There were always occasions, whether it was carnival, birthdays or imperial weddings.
Imagine Maria Antonia, the future Queen of France, marrying the same man twice! Why? Find out on this guided tour.
January 13 to March 17, 2024
The maze
Find the right path to the viewing platform in the maze, which may seem easy at first glance, but turns out to be quite tricky. Once you have made it to your destination, a 140-year-old plane tree awaits you. At 30 meters high, it is a particularly tall specimen of its kind.
The labyrinth
The labyrinth in Schönbrunn has been reconstructed according to historical plans and invites you to enjoy fun water games and jumping challenges. Don't miss the giant kaleidoscope, where you can see yourself "distorted" in all directions. A climbing pole and a math puzzle (numbers on the stone slabs reveal the number of steps you can take) invite you to have more fun.
The Labyrinthikon playground
The giant bird at the Labyrinthikon playground is a major highlight. Climb the giant bird and make its wings swing!
