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St. Stephen's Cathedral (Stephansdom)Photo: Spencer Means · BY-SA 2.0

St. Stephen's Cathedral (Stephansdom)

Stephansplatz 3, Vienna$
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Stephansdom (St. Stephen's Cathedral) is Vienna's defining Gothic landmark and spiritual heart, rising from Stephansplatz since the 12th century. Its 136-metre south tower dominates the skyline; inside are Habsburg catacombs, medieval altars, and a colourful tiled roof. The main nave is free; towers and catacombs are ticketed.

Key facts

Hours
Mon–Sat 06:00–22:00
Sun–Sun 07:00–22:00
Mon–Sat 09:00–16:30
Sun–Sun 13:00–16:30
Price$
Phone—
Website—
Nearest transitU-Bahn Stephansplatz (U1 & U3) — exit emerges directly in front of the cathedral
Time needed30 min (nave only) to 2–3 hours (nave + both towers + catacombs + Dom Museum)
Best time to goWeekday mornings 09:00–10:00 in spring (Apr–May) or autumn (Sep–Oct) for fewest crowds; arrive at opening for tower climbs to avoid mid-morning queues
Last verifiedJuly 12, 2026

Locals Score

  • Value8.0
  • Freshness5.9
  • Crowd level5.0
  • Authenticity8.5
  • Accessibility10.0
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Frequently asked questions

Do I need to book tickets in advance?
Individual tickets for towers and catacombs are currently sold only on-site for cash. The All-Inclusive combo ticket (covering both towers, catacombs, audio guide, and Dom Museum) can be purchased online in advance through third-party booking platforms, which is recommended during peak summer season.
Can I visit the catacombs, and what will I see?
Yes — the catacombs can only be visited on a guided tour (approx. 30 minutes), which departs regularly from inside the cathedral. Tours run Mon–Sat at 10:00, 11:00, 11:30, then hourly 13:30–16:30; Sundays and holidays hourly 13:30–16:30. The catacombs hold the remains of thousands of plague victims and the internal organs of Habsburg rulers.
Is it free to enter St. Stephen's Cathedral?
Entry to the main nave is free. Paid attractions include the South Tower (343-step climb), the North Tower (elevator to the Pummerin bell), the catacombs (guided tour), and the Cathedral Treasury. An All-Inclusive adult ticket covering audio guide, both towers, catacombs, and Dom Museum is €18 (2026).
How much does it cost to climb the South Tower?
The South Tower climb costs approximately €8 for adults (2026 prices from museos.com); children aged 6–14 pay €3. The 343-step staircase leads to a panoramic observation platform with views over Vienna's rooftops and the Danube. No lift — stairs only.
Is there a dress code for visiting Stephansdom?
There is no strict enforced dress code, but as an active place of worship, modest clothing is expected — shoulders and knees should be covered. Visitors are asked to be respectful of ongoing religious services, which take place multiple times daily.
What is the difference between the North Tower and the South Tower?
The South Tower is the taller at ~136.5 m and requires climbing 343 steps; it offers panoramic city views in all directions. The North Tower (~68 m) has a lift and houses the Pummerin, Austria's largest bell. Both towers cost approximately €8 for adults.
What are the visiting hours for tourists?
Tourist sightseeing hours are Monday–Saturday 09:00–11:30 and 13:00–16:30; Sundays and public holidays 13:00–16:30. The cathedral itself is open for prayer Mon–Sat from 06:00 and Sundays from 07:00 until 22:00. Hours can change due to religious services — always check the official calendar at stephansdom.at.
How do I get to Stephansdom by public transport?
Take U-Bahn lines U1 or U3 to Stephansplatz station — the exit emerges directly in front of the cathedral. Buses 1A, 2A, and 3A also stop at Stephansplatz in the pedestrian zone.

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