About Kunsthistorisches Museum
Across the Ringstrasse from its twin (the Naturhistorisches), the KHM shelters the Habsburg imperial collection — particularly strong in Bruegel, Velázquez and ancient Egypt.
Founded in 1891, Kunsthistorisches Museum has been welcoming visitors for over 135 years. Today it draws approximately 1,700,000 visitors annually, making it one of the most-visited art & encyclopedic museums in the world. Located in Vienna, Austria, the museum holds a rating of 4.8 out of 5 based on 19,000 traveller reviews, reflecting its enduring appeal to both first-time visitors and returning enthusiasts.
Why Kunsthistorisches Museum ranks #30
Our editorial ranking blends data from TripAdvisor Travelers' Choice awards, AECOM/TEA annual attendance figures, and coverage in leading travel publications including Condé Nast Traveler, Time Out, National Geographic and The Times. Ranking at #30, Kunsthistorisches Museum is one of the fifty most acclaimed museums on our composite index — a destination that serious museum-goers and casual visitors alike should have on their list. Key recognitions include: World's largest Bruegel collection.
Must-see highlights
With a recommended visit time of 2–4 hours, planning your route through Kunsthistorisches Museum is essential. Here are the standout works and spaces that should be at the top of your list:
- ◆Hunters in the Snow (Bruegel)
- ◆Tower of Babel (Bruegel)
- ◆Vermeer's The Art of Painting
- ◆Cellini's Saliera
- ◆Egyptian collection
- ◆Cupola Hall
Recognition & awards
Kunsthistorisches Museum has received recognition from multiple authoritative sources in the museum and travel industry:
Planning your visit
Opening hours: Tue–Sun 10:00–18:00 (Thu until 21:00). Closed Mon (open in summer).
How long to spend: Most visitors recommend setting aside 2–4 hours for a thorough visit. If you are short on time, focus on the highlights listed above and consider purchasing a skip-the-line ticket to maximise your time inside.
Getting there: Kunsthistorisches Museum is located in Vienna, Austria at coordinates 48.2038°N, 16.3614°E. View on Google Maps →
Visitor tips: Given the size of this museum, comfortable shoes are essential. Consider splitting your visit across two days if your schedule allows. Check the official website for any temporary closures, special exhibitions and advance booking requirements.
History of Kunsthistorisches Museum
Kunsthistorisches Museum was established in 1891, making it a well-established institution with over a century of history. Over the centuries, it has grown from its original collection to become a major cultural landmark in Vienna. With 1,700,000 annual visitors, it plays a vital role in Austria's cultural tourism economy and stands as one of the most important art & encyclopedic museums in the Europe region.
Other top art & encyclopedic museums
If you enjoy art & encyclopedic museums like Kunsthistorisches Museum, you may also want to explore these highly-ranked institutions in the same category:
- #1Musée du LouvreParis, France
- #2The Metropolitan Museum of ArtNew York, United States
- #3Vatican MuseumsVatican City, Vatican City
- #4British MuseumLondon, United Kingdom
- #5State Hermitage MuseumSaint Petersburg, Russia
More museums in Vienna
Vienna is home to 3 museums on our editorial ranking. If you are visiting the city, consider combining your trip to Kunsthistorisches Museum with these nearby institutions:
- #129Belvedere Museum🖼️ Art & Encyclopedic
- #130Albertina🖼️ Art & Encyclopedic
Frequently asked questions
What are the opening hours of Kunsthistorisches Museum?
Tue–Sun 10:00–18:00 (Thu until 21:00). Closed Mon (open in summer). We recommend checking the official website before your visit as hours may change on public holidays or during special events.
How long should I spend at Kunsthistorisches Museum?
Most visitors recommend spending 2–4 hours for a comprehensive visit. If you are short on time, prioritise the must-see highlights listed above.
Where is Kunsthistorisches Museum located?
Kunsthistorisches Museum is located in Vienna, Austria. The exact coordinates are 48.2038°, 16.3614°. You can find directions via Google Maps.
What is Kunsthistorisches Museum known for?
The Habsburg imperial art collection. Key highlights include Hunters in the Snow (Bruegel), Tower of Babel (Bruegel), Vermeer's The Art of Painting. The museum holds a 4.8/5 rating from 19,000 reviews.
How many people visit Kunsthistorisches Museum each year?
Kunsthistorisches Museum receives approximately 1,700,000 visitors per year, making it one of the most-visited museums in Austria.
When was Kunsthistorisches Museum founded?
Kunsthistorisches Museum was founded in 1891, making it 135 years old. It is categorised as a art & encyclopedic museum in our directory.
