Please do not forget to print your voucher before your visit.
Operating Hours of St. Stephen’s Cathedral
- Cathedral Access: Monday–Saturday: 6:00 A.M. – 10:00 P.M. -Sundays & Public Holidays: 7:00 A.M. – 10:00 P.M.
- South Tower (Steffl): Daily: 9:00 A.M. – 7:00 P.M. (343-step climb with panoramic city views).
- North Tower & Pummerin Bell: Elevator access: Jan–Mar: 9:00 A.M.– 5:30 P.M. - Apr–Dec: 9:00 A.M. – 8:30 P.M.
What to Expect Inside
Stepping inside the Stephansdom, visitors encounter a vast Gothic nave defined by soaring vaults and dramatic verticality. Light filters through stained-glass windows, illuminating marble altars, sculpted chapels, and centuries-old stonework.
Highlights of the interior experience include:
- The impressive high nave with ribbed vaulting
- Ornate side chapels dedicated to saints and guilds
- Historic altars and carved stone pulpits
- A contemplative atmosphere within an active cathedral
Special Highlights
- Historic Depth: Foundation stones date back to 1137, with Gothic elements added in the 14th and 15th centuries.
- War and Renewal: Bombing in 1945 destroyed parts of the cathedral, but it was restored within seven years.
- Cultural Symbol: The Stephansdom is more than a religious site—it is Vienna’s emblem of resilience, faith, and identity.
Historical Role in Vienna
Beyond its religious purpose, the Stephansdom has long been the symbolic heart of Vienna. It witnessed Habsburg weddings, funerals, and coronations, and survived both Ottoman sieges and the devastations of WWII. The cathedral became a rallying point for Vienna’s identity, particularly after its partial destruction in 1945 and rapid reconstruction by 1952. Today, it remains not just a house of worship but a stage for state events, concerts, and cultural life—anchoring Vienna’s historic center as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Architecture and Design
St. Stephen’s Cathedral blends Romanesque foundations with Gothic expansion, making it a living chronicle of medieval craftsmanship. The façade and nave reflect Romanesque solidity, while the soaring spires, ribbed vaults, and flying buttresses showcase Gothic ambition. The tiled roof, with 230,000 glazed tiles forming imperial and Viennese coats of arms, has become one of Vienna’s most photographed icons. Inside, visitors can marvel at side chapels, intricately carved pulpits, and stained-glass windows that illuminate centuries of artistry.
How Long to Plan
Plan approximately 30–45 minutes to explore the cathedral interior. Visitors wishing to attend a service or spend additional time in quiet reflection may wish to allow more time.