Schloss Hof is a beautiful Baroque palace estate in Lower Austria. It was once a countryside retreat for imperial nobility, and now it is a popular day trip from Vienna. The estate connects history and nature, with elegant gardens and a charming farm. Because of this, it is perfect for both culture lovers and families.

Imperial Baroque Palace
for a Perfect Day Trip
from Vienna

A Brief History of Schloss Hof

Prince Eugene of Savoy, a famous general and art lover, bought and rebuilt Schloss Hof in the 1720s. Although the estate’s roots go back to the 12th century, he turned an old manor into a grand Baroque palace and used it as a hunting lodge.

Later, in 1755, Empress Maria Theresa fell in love with Schloss Hof. She bought it and made many changes. She added new buildings, and she redesigned the gardens to fit her imperial style. After her time, the palace slowly lost importance and fell into neglect.

However, in recent years, Schloss Hof was fully restored. Now it looks as splendid as in the 18th century. The palace once again shows the imperial glory of Vienna’s history.

What to See at Schloss Hof

🏰 The Grand Palace

Visit the two-story palace and walk through lavish halls, frescoed ceilings, and rooms of Prince Eugene and Maria Theresa. The tour is mostly self-guided, so you can take your time.

You feel like you are walking into the past, because everything is restored to its original look. Each room tells a part of the story about imperial life.

🌸 Terraced
Baroque Gardens

The gardens stretch over seven terraces and go down to the Morava River. You will see geometric flower beds, fountains, and historic greenhouses.

The gardens were fully restored by 2019, so now they show their original Baroque design. They are perfect for a relaxing walk, and each level offers panoramic views of the palace.

🐴 Estate Farm
and Petting Zoo

Schloss Hof also has a working farm called the Meierhof. It was part of the estate in the 18th century. Here you can see Lipizzaner horses, white Baroque donkeys, sheep, and even camels.

There is also a petting zoo for kids and families. On weekends and holidays, the farm offers craft workshops like pottery or baking. You will also find a herb garden and orchard, which show the practical side of the estate.

🏛 Orangery and
Baroque Architecture

The estate has two Baroque orangeries, where citrus trees were kept in winter. These orangeries are among the oldest in Europe, and they still use an 18th-century heating system.

Walk around the courtyard, admire the yellow palace façade, and enjoy the symmetric design of the gardens and buildings. Everything was planned as a harmonious complex.

Fascinating Facts
About Schloss Hof

• Austria’s Largest Rural Palace: The estate covers over 50 hectares. It was the largest country estate of the Habsburg Empire.
• Border Location: Schloss Hof is near the Slovak border, and the Bridge of Freedom connects it with Slovakia. You can walk or cycle across the border.
• White Baroque Donkeys: These rare animals have white coats and blue eyes. There are only a few hundred left in the world.
• On Coins and in Movies: Schloss Hof was featured on a silver Austrian coin, and it has appeared in films about imperial Austria.
• Royal Festival: In 1754, a three-day festival with gondolas and fireworks helped impress Empress Maria Theresa. She bought Schloss Hof soon after.

Practical Information
for Visitors

🕒 Opening Hours

• Summer (mid-March to early November): 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
• Winter (early November to early March): 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
• Closed on December 24 and sometimes during holidays.
  Always check the official website before your visit.

🎟 Tickets

• Adults: around €24
• Children 6–18: about €13.50
• Kids under 6: free
• Family Ticket (2 adults + 3 kids): about €61
• Vienna City Card holders: discount price around €22.50
• Vienna Pass/NOE Card: Free entrance included

Buy tickets online or on site. Special events may have different pricing.

🧭 Tips and Facilities

• On-site restaurant and café offer local meals and pastries.
• You can also bring snacks and use picnic areas.
• The gift shop sells souvenirs and local products.
• Stroller and wheelchair accessible, with elevators and smooth paths.
• Toilets and baby changing rooms are available.
• Wear comfortable shoes – the estate is big, and there’s lots of walking.
• Free parking and a shuttle bus from Vienna are available.
• Most signs are in German and English.
• English tours happen at fixed times.

Conclusion
Plan Your Imperial Day Trip

Schloss Hof is a hidden gem near Vienna. It offers a perfect mix of imperial history, nature, and fun activities. You can visit lavish rooms, walk in beautiful gardens, and meet farm animals in one day.

Because the estate is close to Vienna, it is an ideal place for a day trip. You will discover the imperial side of Austria in a peaceful countryside. So when you plan your visit to Vienna, add Schloss Hof to your list.

You will walk in the footsteps of princes and empresses, and you will enjoy one of the most charming places to visit in Austria.