If you’re planning to explore Vienna’s famous Schönbrunn Palace, this Imperial breakfast experience offers a charming way to begin your day. It’s not just about the sightseeing; it’s about savoring the city’s iconic coffeehouse tradition while fueling up for your tour of the imperial grounds. We’ve looked into this experience to see if it’s worth your time—and money—and here’s what you need to know.

What immediately caught our attention was the chance to enjoy a luxurious breakfast right at Schönbrunn, combined with a small-group tour through Austria’s most visited palace. The idea of starting with authentic Viennese hospitality and then following in the footsteps of Sisi and Franz seems like a pretty appealing way to soak in Vienna’s culture. Plus, with a price of $38 per person, it strikes us as a reasonable way to turn a sightseeing day into a more immersive experience.

That said, one thing to keep in mind is that this breakfast doesn’t include tickets to the palace itself—so if you’re eager to skip the lines or explore the interior in detail, you’ll need to purchase those separately. Still, if you love the idea of a relaxed, delicious start to your Vienna adventure, this experience might be just right. It’s best suited for travelers who appreciate good food, want to get a feel for Viennese traditions, and enjoy small-group tours that allow for a more personal touch.

Key Points

Culinary and cultural combo: Start your day with a breakfast at a historic Viennese bakery, then explore Schönbrunn Palace.
Authentic Viennese coffee house ambiance: The breakfast is served at Gerstner K.u.K. Court Confectioner, a well-regarded spot for traditional coffeehouse treats.
Hearty, curated meal: The “Maria Theresia” breakfast includes organic bread, pastries, cheeses, ham, a soft-boiled egg, and a glass of sparkling wine—fuel for your palace adventure.
Small group experience: Limited to 10 people, ensuring a cozy, more personalized atmosphere.
Price reflects quality: At $38, this includes a filling breakfast, a hot drink, and bubbly—considered good value for a combination experience.
No palace entry included: You’ll need separate tickets if you want to tour the palace interior, but the experience prepares you well for the day.

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What to Expect: A Detailed Look at the Experience

This tour begins at the Gerstner K.u.K. Hofzuckerbäcker located just to the left of Schönbrunn Palace’s courtyard. From the moment you step inside, you’re greeted with the warmth and elegance characteristic of Vienna’s traditional coffee houses. The setting itself feels special—this is the same spot renowned for its historical significance as the court confectioner, a testament to Vienna’s long-standing pastry and coffee culture.

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The Breakfast: A Noble Start to the Day

The highlight here is the “Maria Theresia” breakfast, which is thoughtfully curated to give you a taste of Viennese culinary tradition. You’ll start with a Viennese organic Kaiser roll and a croissant, along with a slice of homemade bread. The accompaniments are equally classic—butter or diet margarine, Staud’s jam or honey, and a soft-boiled organic egg that’s just right for dipping or eating plain.

The proteins are equally satisfying: honey leg ham, Bergbaron cheese, and Jerome cheese. This assortment provides a good balance of flavors and textures, making it a substantial start without feeling overly heavy. To wash it down, you get a hot drink of your choice—whether it’s a rich café crème or a black coffee—and a glass of sparkling wine, adding a bit of celebratory flair.

Many reviews note the quality of the food—they say it’s “delicious” and “filling but not overwhelming,” which is perfect for leaving enough room for the palace tour afterward.

The Atmosphere and Service

Guests tend to praise the friendly service and the authentic ambiance. The setting is cozy yet refined, with a heritage feel that enhances the overall experience. It’s a great way to slow down before a busy exploration of Schönbrunn, and many comment on how the Viennese coffeehouse tradition really comes alive here.

Transitioning to the Palace Tour

Once you’re finished with breakfast, you will be ready for your Schönbrunn Palace tour. The experience lasts approximately 2 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy a leisurely meal and then head out for your discovery of the grounds, gardens, and surrounding attractions. The tour is conducted in both German and English, catering to international visitors.

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The Palace and Gardens

While the ticket to Schönbrunn Palace isn’t included, most guests find that they are well-prepared to appreciate the grandeur of the exterior and the sprawling gardens after their hearty breakfast. Many reviews mention that the grounds are perfect for a relaxed walk, and the tour guides often share insightful tidbits about the imperial history without making the visit feel rushed.

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Price and Value: Is It Worth It?

For $38 per person, you get a premium Viennese breakfast in a historic setting, plus a small-group tour of Schönbrunn Palace. When you consider the quality of the breakfast—the organic ingredients, the drinks, and the ambiance—it feels like a reasonable price for an experience that combines local culture and a bit of indulgence.

However, keep in mind that you’ll need to purchase palace tickets separately. If your goal is to explore the palace interior in detail, this might be an extra cost to factor in. But if you’re more interested in starting your day with a taste of Vienna’s culinary traditions and getting a feel for the palace’s exterior, it’s a good value.

What Travelers Say

Reviewers often highlight the excellent quality of the breakfast and the friendly, attentive service. One noted, “The breakfast was superb—fabulous bread, cheeses, and champagne. It set us up perfectly for the day.” Others appreciate the small group size, which makes for a more intimate, less rushed experience.

Some, however, mention that the breakfast ends early (restaurant closes at 8 pm), so plan accordingly if you’re looking for a late start. Also, since the experience doesn’t include palace tickets, it’s better suited for those who already plan to visit Schönbrunn or want a more relaxed morning before touring.

Who Is This Experience Best For?

This experience is ideal for travelers who value culinary experiences and traditional coffeehouse culture, and who want to combine that with sightseeing. It’s perfect if you enjoy starting your day with a hearty, well-prepared breakfast and appreciate small-group intimacy.

It’s especially suitable for those who plan to explore Schönbrunn’s outdoor areas and don’t mind purchasing palace tickets separately. If you’re someone who loves a good breakfast with a touch of elegance and can appreciate the history behind Viennese cafes, this will be a memorable way to kick off your day.

FAQs About the Imperial Breakfast and Palace Tour

Is the breakfast included in the tour price?
Yes, the $38 price covers the breakfast, drinks, and the guided experience at the café. The palace tickets, however, are sold separately.

Can I choose different drinks?
You get to select one hot drink of your choice. The menu typically offers options like coffee or tea, but specifics aren’t detailed.

What if I have dietary restrictions?
You should inform the tour provider immediately of any intolerances. The menu is curated with organic and traditional ingredients, but special diets might require adjustments.

What does the breakfast include?
It features a Viennese organic Kaiser roll, croissant, homemade bread, butter or margarine, jam or honey, a soft-boiled egg, ham, and cheeses, plus a hot drink and sparkling wine.

How long is the entire experience?
The breakfast and tour together last about 2 hours, making it a manageable morning activity.

Is this experience suitable for families?
While not specifically marketed as family-friendly, the hearty breakfast and relaxed pace make it suitable for most adults and older children who enjoy food and culture.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it’s recommended to reserve ahead of time, especially since spaces are limited to 10 participants, ensuring a more personal experience.

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Imperial breakfast before your castle tour

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Wrapping It Up

If you’re after a way to start your Vienna day with a touch of elegance, this Imperial breakfast before your Schönbrunn Palace tour offers a delightful blend of culinary tradition and sightseeing. It’s particularly suited for those who enjoy good food, a cozy atmosphere, and a relaxed pace. The inclusion of a glass of sparkling wine and the chance to indulge in classic Viennese pastries make it stand out from more hurried, self-guided mornings.

For a reasonable price, you’ll enjoy an authentic breakfast in a historic setting, setting the tone for a memorable day exploring one of Austria’s most impressive landmarks. Just remember to book early, as space is limited, and plan to buy your palace tickets separately if you want to go inside. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or just dipping your toes into Vienna’s culture, this experience is worth considering if you love good food and a touch of history.