In short
- Large bags and suitcases are not allowed, and there is no cloakroom.
- Flash, tripods, and selfie sticks are banned in the Sisi Museum.
- All photography is forbidden at the Spanish Riding School.
In this article
Navigating the 300,000-square-meter Hofburg complex is easier when you pack correctly. Because each institution operates independently, rules vary slightly across the palace. However, strict bag limits and camera policies apply across all indoor areas.
Are backpacks and large bags allowed inside?
No, you cannot bring large bags, bulky backpacks, or suitcases into the museums.
The Hofburg Palace does not offer a cloakroom for large luggage. If you bring a suitcase, you will not be allowed inside. Pack a small daypack or a crossbody bag instead. You will need to keep this smaller bag with you as you walk through the historic rooms.
What are the hofburg palace rules bags photography for the museums?
You can bring a camera or smartphone, but you cannot use flash, tripods, or selfie sticks.
You may take photos without flash in most museum areas like the Sisi Museum and Imperial Apartments. The staff enforces these strict hofburg palace rules bags photography limits to protect the artifacts and prevent crowding in narrow rooms. If you want unrestricted photos, head outside to Heldenplatz or Michaelerplatz.
Can I take pictures at the Spanish Riding School?
No, you cannot take any photos or record videos during performances and morning exercises.
The Spanish Riding School strictly forbids all photography. This rule protects the famous white Lipizzaner stallions from sudden distractions. Keep your camera and smartphone securely in your pocket or small bag while inside the riding arena.
Can you bring food and drinks into the palace?
Food and drink are completely prohibited inside all Hofburg Palace museums.
You cannot eat or drink while touring the indoor exhibits. Smoking, including e-cigarettes, is also banned indoors. You are not allowed to touch any of the historical exhibits. You can carry a refillable water bottle inside your small bag, but you must drink outside.
Are dogs allowed inside Hofburg Palace?
Only certified assistance dogs are allowed inside the museums.
Regular pet dogs cannot enter any of the indoor facilities. You can walk your dog on a leash through the exterior courtyards and open squares like Heldenplatz.
What should I pack for my visit?
Bring comfortable walking shoes, a small daypack, and your smartphone with headphones.
The palace complex covers 59 acres, so comfortable shoes are necessary. Bring wired or wireless headphones to use with provided audio guides. A light jacket is useful, as the historic interiors can be drafty. Pack an umbrella if you plan to walk between different museum wings in the rain.
Questions travellers ask
Is there a cloakroom for large luggage at Hofburg Palace?
No. The museums do not provide a cloakroom for large bags or suitcases. You will be denied entry if you arrive with bulky luggage.
Are selfie sticks allowed in the Sisi Museum?
No. Selfie sticks, tripods, and flash photography are strictly prohibited inside the Sisi Museum and Imperial Apartments.
Can I bring my water bottle inside?
You can carry a refillable water bottle in your small bag, but you cannot drink from it inside the museums. You can fill it at public drinking fountains outside the complex.
