Vienna: MAK – Museum of Applied Arts – Tickets

Exploring Vienna’s MAK Museum of Applied Arts: A Practical Guide

If you’re planning a trip to Vienna and have an interest in design, art, or architecture, the MAK – Museum of Applied Arts – is worth a visit. We haven’t personally been, but from what we’ve seen and read, it’s a well-rounded experience that combines beautiful architecture with inspiring exhibitions.

Two things we really appreciate about this experience are the impressive collection of Viennese Modernist works, including Gustav Klimt’s monumental drawings, and the chance to explore contemporary design projects at the MAK Design Lab. These features offer a good mix of historical and modern perspectives—something that appeals whether you’re an art lover or just curious about innovative design.

One thing to keep in mind: the museum is quite large, and the reviews suggest you should set aside at least half a day to really enjoy it. It’s easy to underestimate how much there is to see, especially if you want to give each section the attention it deserves. Also, while the price is quite fair for the quality and range of exhibitions, the potential crowd levels and the size of the museum might mean some waiting or a slower pace.

This tour suits anyone with a genuine interest in arts and design—whether you’re a serious collector, a casual admirer, or someone who loves architecture and fashion. It can be especially rewarding if you enjoy exploring a city’s cultural heart at your own pace, thanks to the flexible ticketing options and convenient facilities.

Key Points

• Affordable Price Point: At around $16, this ticket offers access to a vast collection and multiple exhibitions, making it good value.
• Architectural Marvel: The building itself, located on Vienna’s Ringstraße, is grand and worth admiring.
• Rich Collection of Modern Works: With highlights like Klimt’s drawings and Wiener Werkstätte pieces, expect a focus on Viennese Modernism.
• Temporary and Permanent Exhibitions: Your ticket includes access to special exhibitions, adding variety to your visit.
• Helpful Facilities and Guides: The free digital guide, WiFi, and available audio guides make exploring easier.
• Accessibility and Convenience: The museum is wheelchair accessible and offers a quick security check to save time.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect When Visiting the MAK Museum of Applied Arts

From the moment you walk into the MAK, you’re stepping into a space that’s as much about the building as the art. The architecture is stunning—an example of the kind of grandeur Vienna’s Ringstraße is famous for. It’s a historic, elegant setting that adds to the overall experience, making it more than just a trip through exhibits; it’s a visual delight in itself.

Once inside, you’ll find over 900,000 objects and printed works distributed across numerous galleries. The museum dedicates a significant part of its space to artworks from Vienna around 1900, which is where the real charm lies. Think of it as a walk through Vienna’s creative boom—where artists like Gustav Klimt, Josef Hoffmann, and Otto Wagner shaped the aesthetics of their time.

The Permanent Collection

The permanent exhibits are particularly strong on Viennese Modernism, showcasing works that reflect the social and political environment of the era. We love how the collection isn’t just about pretty objects but also offers context—helping visitors understand the movement’s influence and significance.

One highlight is Klimt’s monumental drawings for the Stoclet Frieze, which give a fascinating glimpse into his work process and the grandeur of his style. The collection includes pieces from the Wiener Werkstätte, an influential design cooperative, which is perfect if you’re interested in the roots of modern design.

Special and Temporary Exhibitions

Your ticket grants access to a variety of special exhibitions—these rotate and highlight contemporary design, architecture, and art projects. This adds fresh interest to your visit, especially if you want to see current trends or recent innovations. We’ve heard from visitors that these exhibitions are often quite engaging and inspiring.

The museum has a dedicated Design Lab, which focuses on contemporary design projects. If you’re into current design trends or just looking for something a little different from traditional art museums, this part offers a contemporary contrast to the historic works.

Navigating the Museum

We appreciate the inclusion of a free digital guide, which can help you navigate and learn more about the exhibits at your own pace. There’s also free WiFi and a cloakroom, making the visit more convenient, especially if you’re carrying bags or want to stay connected.

The museum is wheelchair accessible, and the express security check helps avoid long lines, making it a smooth experience, even during busier times.

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The Visitor Experience: Pros and Cons

Based on reviews and our impressions, the MAK Museum is quite extensive, and many visitors mention how they wish they had more than a few hours to explore it thoroughly. Lazar notes, “Great, but need half of the day to really explore everything.” So, if you’re a slow explorer or love to linger over every piece, plan accordingly.

The ticket price of $16 is reasonable considering the number of exhibits and the quality of the collections. It offers good value, especially since you’re getting access to not just permanent collections but also temporary exhibitions—all included in the price. However, if you’re only mildly interested in design or Vienna’s art scene, you might find it a bit overwhelming or not worth a full day.

Some visitors mention the museum’s size as a potential drawback if you’re tight on time. But for those who enjoy a relaxed pace, it’s ideal. The café, which many mention positively, provides a nice break, especially if you want to sit back and reflect on what you’ve seen.

Practical Details and Tips

• Starting times depend on availability, so it’s best to check and reserve your ticket in advance.
• The ticket includes skip-the-line security, which is a plus during busy periods.
• The audio guide is available in English and German, enhancing your understanding of the exhibits.
• Entry is free for visitors under 19—perfect if you’re traveling with younger travelers or students.
• The museum’s one-day validity means you can plan to visit on a day that suits your schedule without rushing.

Who Should Visit the MAK Museum?

This experience is especially well-suited for those with a keen interest in art, design, architecture, or Vienna’s cultural history. If you enjoy exploring comprehensive collections and learning about the social influences behind artistic movements, you’ll find plenty to love. It’s also a good choice for visitors who prefer a flexible, self-guided approach thanks to the digital guide and generous opening hours.

It might feel a bit much for casual travelers who prefer quick highlights or are on a tight schedule, but if you’re willing to spend a few hours or more, you’ll be rewarded with a deep dive into Vienna’s creative scene.

FAQ

Is the MAK Museum suitable for a short visit?
Yes, but with a caveat. If you only have an hour or two, you might only see parts of the collection. To really appreciate what it offers, we recommend spending at least half a day.

Can I buy the tickets at the door?
It’s best to reserve online in advance, especially during busy times, to ensure availability and skip lines.

Is there a guided tour included?
While the ticket includes an audio guide in English and German, there’s no mention of a guided tour as part of this package. The digital guide helps you explore independently.

Are there facilities for visitors with mobility issues?
Yes, the museum is wheelchair accessible, and the express security check helps make the experience smoother.

What’s the age limit for free entry?
Entry is free for persons under 19 years old, which is perfect for families or young travelers.

Can I visit the exhibitions more than once with this ticket?
The ticket is valid for one day only, so you’d need to purchase another ticket if you want to return.

Final Thoughts

Visiting the MAK Museum of Applied Arts in Vienna offers a thoughtfully curated look into Vienna’s modernist and contemporary design scenes within a stunning architectural setting. Whether you’re an art enthusiast or someone curious about innovative design, the combination of permanent collections, special exhibitions, and the beautiful building makes for a satisfying outing.

The price point is fair, especially given the breadth of what’s included, and the facilities make it accessible and comfortable. Just remember, it’s a sizeable museum—so plan to give yourself enough time to fully enjoy the experience. For design lovers, history buffs, or anyone wanting to understand Vienna’s artistic development, this museum is a rewarding stop.

If you prefer a more condensed experience or are on a strict timetable, you might want to prioritize your highlights. But for those who enjoy deep dives into art and design, the MAK Museum is a solid choice that can easily fill a half or full day.

In the end, the MAK Museum of Applied Arts offers a well-rounded, visually impressive, and educational experience that’s worth the visit—just come prepared to take your time and soak it all in.

You can check availability for your dates here: