Interior view of Hofmobiliendepot museum in Vienna showcasing historic furniture exhibits

Imperial Furniture Museum

Imperial Furniture Museum Vienna: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Sites Guide

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

The Imperial Furniture Museum in Vienna (Möbelmuseum Wien) stands as a unique cultural institution, offering visitors an in-depth look at the grandeur and daily life of the Habsburg dynasty through one of the world’s most significant furniture collections. Founded in 1747 by Empress Maria Theresa, the museum’s origins lie in its role as the imperial furniture depository, responsible for cataloging, maintaining, and relocating the expansive collection that adorned Habsburg residences. Over time, it has evolved into a celebrated repository of more than 160,000 artifacts, representing European furniture design from the Baroque to Viennese Modernism.

Located in Vienna’s vibrant Neubau district, the museum is both a historical site and a modern, accessible attraction, with multimedia exhibitions, virtual tours, and thoughtfully reconstructed period rooms. Its proximity to other major landmarks, such as Schönbrunn Palace and the Kunsthistorisches Museum, makes it a key destination for anyone interested in Vienna’s imperial legacy, European design, or cultural history.

For up-to-date information on visiting hours, tickets, and exhibitions, always consult the Imperial Furniture Museum Official Website, as well as trusted resources like Vienna Direct and Imperial Tickets.

Interior view of the Hofmobiliendepot museum showcasing historic furniture collection in Vienna

Historical Background and Significance
Visitor Information
Museum Layout and Visitor Experience
Special Exhibitions and Events
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Plan Your Visit
Summary and Recommendations
References

Historical Background and Significance

Origins and Early Development

Established in 1747, the Imperial Furniture Museum was initially tasked with managing and cataloging the extensive furnishings of the Habsburg court. The practice of seasonally relocating furniture between palaces led to the creation of specialized, portable pieces—such as folding thrones and travel beds—underscoring the practical and ceremonial needs of the dynasty (viennadirect.com; habsburger.net).

Expansion and Modernization

In 1901, Emperor Franz Joseph I commissioned the construction of a new depot, which now forms the museum’s core. Following the end of the monarchy in 1918, the collection was nationalized and opened to the public in 1924. Subsequent redesigns, notably in 1998, modernized the space and enhanced the visitor experience (viennadirect.com).

Scope and Significance of the Collection

Today, the museum is home to over 160,000 objects, ranging from Baroque and Rococo masterpieces to Biedermeier, Empire, Historicism, and Viennese Modernism. The collection includes imperial thrones, ornate commodes, ceremonial chairs, travel furniture, and everyday objects, as well as reconstructions of period rooms and works by iconic Austrian designers (introducingvienna.com; whichmuseum.com).

Cultural and Historical Impact

Beyond its historical and artistic value, the museum plays an active role in Austrian public life, with many pieces still furnishing government buildings. Its exhibitions provide rich insights into social customs, court culture, and the evolution of taste, making it a cornerstone for understanding the Habsburg legacy (viennadirect.com).

Visitor Information

Visiting Hours and Days Open

Main Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Closed: Mondays and select public holidays
Last Admission: 30 minutes before closing
Always check the official website for updates.

Ticket Prices and Purchase Options

Adults: €10–€18 (varies by ticket type and discounts)
Reduced: €7–€9 (students, seniors)
Children under 18/19: Free
Family & Group Tickets: Available
Combination Passes: The “Sisi Pass” offers bundled entry to multiple Vienna imperial sites (moebelmuseumwien.at)
Vienna Welcome Card Holders: Receive discounts (viennawelcomecard.at)
Online Purchase: Buy tickets here

Accessibility

Fully wheelchair accessible, with elevators and ramps
Free wheelchair loans at the ticket office
Accessible restrooms and step-free access throughout
Guide dogs permitted; free admission for assistants of disabled visitors (wien.info)

Guided Tours and Special Events

Regular guided tours in German and English
Audio guides in multiple languages included with ticket
Themed and private tours available; special “Emperor’s Couch” tour offered monthly
Temporary exhibitions and educational programs enrich the experience (moebelmuseumwien.at)

Travel Tips and Nearby Attractions

Location: Andreasgasse 7, 1070 Vienna (Neubau district)
Public Transport: U-Bahn (U3, Zieglergasse), bus 13A, and nearby tram lines; parking garages available but public transport recommended
Nearby: Schönbrunn Palace, Vienna MuseumsQuartier, Kunsthistorisches Museum, Mariahilfer Straße shopping street

Museum Layout and Visitor Experience

Visual and Interactive Features

The museum’s layout combines historic architecture with modern exhibition design. Galleries feature reconstructed palace rooms, displays of imperial and modernist furniture, and multimedia installations. High-quality images, virtual tours, and interactive maps are available online to help plan your visit (Imperial Furniture Museum Virtual Tour).

Duration of Visit and Visitor Flow

Plan for 1.5–2 hours to explore the museum in depth
Clear signage and logical exhibit progression help visitors navigate through different historical periods
Ample seating and well-lit galleries ensure comfort

Family and Group Visits

Free admission for children under 18/19
Educational materials and activities for families
Spacious galleries accommodate school groups and larger parties; group tours should be booked in advance

Special Exhibitions and Events

The museum regularly hosts special exhibitions. From April 9, 2025, to January 11, 2026, “Josef Frank and the Others: New Furniture 1920–1940” celebrates Austrian design innovation and the centenary of Haus & Garten (imperialtickets.com). The museum also features exhibitions on Japanese porcelain at the imperial court and the role of its furnishings in Sissi films (moebelmuseumwien.at).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the Imperial Furniture Museum’s visiting hours?
A: Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM, closed Mondays and select holidays.

Q: Where can I buy tickets?
A: Online via the official website or at the entrance.

Q: Is the museum wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, the museum is fully accessible with elevators, ramps, and accessible toilets.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, including group and themed tours in German and English.

Q: Can I take photographs?
A: Photography for personal use is generally allowed, except where restricted; no flash or tripods.

Q: Are there combination tickets for other Vienna attractions?
A: Yes, passes like the “Sisi Pass” offer bundled entry to several imperial sites.

Plan Your Visit

Before Your Visit: Check current exhibitions and visitor guidelines on the official museum website.
Tickets: Secure tickets online, especially in peak seasons or for special exhibitions.
Travel: Use Vienna’s efficient public transport to reach the museum.
Enhance Your Experience: Download the Audiala app for audio guides and interactive features.
Combine Attractions: Consider the Sisi Pass for access to multiple imperial sites.

Summary and Recommendations

The Imperial Furniture Museum in Vienna is a must-visit for anyone passionate about history, design, or imperial culture. Its unparalleled collection—spanning over 160,000 artifacts—offers a deep dive into the artistry and daily life of the Habsburgs, complemented by modern amenities, accessibility, and engaging exhibitions. To maximize your visit, plan ahead, make use of combination tickets, and take advantage of virtual and audio resources. Whether you are a local or a traveler, the museum promises an enriching journey through Vienna’s imperial past and its enduring influence on European design (Imperial Furniture Museum Official Website, Vienna Pass).