The University of Vienna (Universitat Wien) is the oldest university in Austria, located in Vienna. It is one of the oldest universities in the modern German-speaking world, founded by Duke Rudolph IV in 1365. The university is well known for its rich history, diverse range of programs and academic excellence.
Admire the breathtaking facade with its open arcades right above the main entrance. The gable bears the inscription "Universitas Litterarum Vindobonensis" and shows “the birth of Minerva”. Witness the beauty of the ceiling paintings done by Franz Matsch, based on Gustav Klimt's original designs.
You can have a private guided tour of the main building, which will provide you with the history of the University of Vienna. The tour includes Aula (assembly hall), the main reading room of the University Library, the Arcade Court, and the Main Ceremonial Hall with its Klimt murals (now copies).
Highlights
• Witness the breathtaking architecture of the University of Vienna, one of Europe's oldest and largest universities.
• Immerse yourself in the peaceful environment of the University’s lush green gardens and feel relaxed.
• Explore the main building and learn about the rich history of the university with a guided private tour.
• Stroll through the stunning staircase leading you to the University's ceremonial halls and the University Library's reading room.
• Discover the Natural History Museum Vienna Collection of Anatomical Pathology, housed in the Narrenturm.
How To Reach
By Road: The University of Vienna is approximately 3 km from the city centre of Vienna, Austria, via Universitätsring. It will take around 10 minutes to get through by hiring a cab. You can also travel by local bus, the cheapest means of transportation.
Best Time To Visit
The University of Vienna is a year-round place, so plan your visit as per your seasonal preferences and availability.
- Best season: The best season to visit the University of Vienna is from April to May or September to October due to comfortable weather conditions.
- Best day in the week: The best day in the week to visit the University of Vienna is on Thursday and Saturday for guided tours.
- Best time of the day: The best time of the day to visit the University of Vienna is between 2 PM and 4 PM.
Other Essential Information
1. The University of Vienna has wheelchair and stroller facilities as well as accessible restrooms.
2. Maintain a peaceful environment in the University by talking politely and avoid making loud noises.
3. Keep the surroundings clean by throwing your litter responsibly in the dustbin or carrying it with you.
4. Carry a camera with you to capture priceless moments with your loved ones while strolling around.
5. Consider carrying a water bottle to stay hydrated and some light snacks as you have to walk a lot to explore the university.
Stroll in the Lush Green Gardens
Relax in the fresh air of the University’s botanical gardens. Immerse in the peaceful environment far from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Behold the unique flora in the 8 hectares of lush green gardens, including exotic and native plants and critically endangered species. Many of these plants are used for the education of students and are studied by academics.
Discover Natural History Museum Vienna Collection of Anatomical Pathology
Travellers can discover the Natural History Museum Vienna Collection of Anatomical Pathology, which is home to the cylindrical Narrenturm. It is also one of the oldest mental health institutions in the world.
It was founded in 1784 to take care of mentally challenged people. This building served as the home of the Federal Pathological-Anatomical Museum in 1971. In 2012, the pathological-anatomical collection in the Narrenturm was incorporated into the Natural History Museum Vienna. However, the building was completely renovated and reopened with a new display of the collection in 2020.
