Imperial Treasury: Entry Ticket

In the oldest part of the Hofburg Imperial Palace sits a treasure trove of jewels and riches. 21 rooms full of jewelry, weapons, gems, garments, and other symbols of wealth and prestige, collected over 800 years by the Habsburgs, this is quite possibly is the most important treasury in the world.

When it comes to royal accessories, this place is unbeatable. It's 21 rooms full of jewel-encrusted crowns, necklaces, sceptres and orbs. Not only stunning to look at, these objects are historically significant - including the Imperial Crown of the Holy Roman Empire.

Throughout its 21 rooms, at every turn there is something beautiful, shiny and historically important. The rare treasures here were assembled by the Imperial House of Habsburg over the course of centuries, and includes, crowns, necklaces, sceptres, orbs, robes, swords, and even a unicorn horn. (Not to call the Habsburgs liars, but this last piece may in fact be the tusk of a narwhal).

For luxury lovers, history buffs, and those who like shiny things, this is a perfect Viennese diversion. Plus, it takes three hours or less, so a visit here will leave you plenty of time to enjoy more of what Vienna has to offer. Perhaps a slice of Sacher-Torte and a strong coffee, while you discuss the symbolic power of precious stones and metals?

TIP: Buy the audio guide on site (in German, English, Italian and French), it will give you valuable insights and contexts about what you're seeing, so all of these priceless and historically significant artifacts don't just become 'shiny old stuff'.