Kunsthistorisches Museum hours, tickets and how to avoid crowds
Quick answer
The KHM in Vienna has no general free entry: adults pay €22 online (€24 at the desk) and under 19s are free. It opens daily 10am–6pm and until 9pm on Thursdays. From 8 September 2026 a time slot must be booked. The best time to go is opening time on a weekday.
Hours and prices checked on · Official website
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How tickets work
There is no free slot for adults. Tickets bought before 8 September 2026 can be used at any time during opening hours without choosing a slot; from that date entry is by reserved time, so buying online is the practical choice. Under 19s do not need to book online: they are registered at the entrance with ID.
- Always buy from the official website to avoid reseller mark-ups.
- Pick opening time or a Thursday evening to see the rooms emptier.
- With the Vienna City Card there is a reduced adult price of €23.
- Bring ID for visitors under 19.
Best time to visit without crowds
- Weekdays at 10am is the quietest combination.
- Thursday evenings: open until 9pm and fewer tour groups.
- Avoid weekend middays, when groups and locals overlap.
- Rainy days increase attendance: book ahead.
Other things to know
The museum is huge: don't try to see it all. On Thursdays the dome café-restaurant stays open until 8:30pm. The official audio guide is paid; as an alternative, the AnyArt app recognises each painting with your camera and tells its story in your language.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Kunsthistorisches Museum free?
Only for under 19s. Adults pay €22 online and €24 at the desk.
What time does the KHM close?
At 6pm every day, except Thursdays, when it closes at 9pm. Galleries are cleared 15 minutes earlier.
Do I need to book?
From 8 September 2026 yes: entry is by time slot only. Under 19s do not need to book online.
Is it open on Mondays?
According to the official site, the museum is open every day of the week. Confirm the hours before you go.
How much is a ticket in 2026?
€22 online and €24 at the desk; reduced €19 online. Confirm the rate at khm.at before your visit.