Fact: America doesn’t have nearly enough sweet castles.

Vienna’s Schloss Shonbrunn, just outside the city center, makes for an awesome pretty-day excursion in the city. Arches, palatial rooms, well-situated cafes/beer gardens, and one of the oldest zoos anywhere. Take some time to visit if you’re ever in town. See what we’re missing, America?

Kindly remember, though: Inside the palace, no photography is allowed. 😉

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I’ve visited Schonbrunn twice, once as an independent traveler and once while photographing a tour for GetYourGuide. The palace is extremely easy to get to (the U4 stop Schonbrunn is just down the street) and the price of admission (starting at 11.50 Euro) includes a free audio guide. With the Vienna 72hr  card you get a one Euro discount, so if you already plan on buying one for other museum discounts it can save you a bit more here. If you’d prefer to go with a tour, though, check out GetYourGuide for one option that includes a bus tour through the city en route to the palace.