Imperial breakfast before your castle tour

A Royal Breakfast to Start Your Schönbrunn Adventure

This imperial breakfast experience at Gerstner K.u.K. Hofzuckerbäcker, set right at Schönbrunn Palace, offers a delightful way to begin a day of exploring Vienna’s most famous site. For €38 (about $38), you get not just a hearty meal but also a taste of Viennese tradition, served in a cozy, historic cafe. The morning kicks off with a breakfast that feels both indulgent and authentic — think organic Kaiser rolls, flaky croissants, homemade bread, and a selection of cheeses and meats — all paired with your choice of hot drink and a glass of sparkling wine. It’s a fine way to fuel up before hours of wandering through the palace, gardens, and surrounding attractions.

What I particularly like about this experience is how it combines gastronomy with culture — enjoying the best of Vienna’s coffee house tradition amid the elegant surroundings of Schönbrunn. Plus, the breakfast is served at the same location where the imperial family might have enjoyed their morning meal, giving it a special historical touch. Another highlight is its small-group setting, limited to just 10 participants, which promotes a relaxed, personalized atmosphere.

One consideration to keep in mind is that this experience doesn’t include entry to the palace itself — you’ll need to purchase a separate ticket for Schönbrunn Palace if you want to go inside. Also, if you’re planning to visit later in the evening, be aware that the Gerstner café closes at 8 pm, so it’s best to enjoy your breakfast early. Despite that, the value for the quality and location is quite compelling, especially if you love starting your day with good food and genuine Viennese hospitality.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Authentic Viennese tradition: The breakfast adheres to classic Viennese coffee house customs, served at the historic Gerstner café.
• Excellent location: Right at Schönbrunn Palace, allowing you to jump straight into exploring the grounds afterward.
• Well-rounded meal: The “Maria Theresia” breakfast includes organic bread, fresh cheese, ham, eggs, jam, and a hot drink, providing sustenance for a busy day.
• Added sparkle: A glass of sparkling wine elevates the experience, giving a toast to imperial Vienna.
• Small-group intimacy: Limited to 10 guests, making it easier to relax and enjoy personalized attention.
• Optional upgrade: This experience does not include palace access, which can be purchased separately, making it flexible for different interests.

Starting Your Day at Schönbrunn: The Breakfast Setting

Arriving at Gerstner K.u.K. Hofzuckerbäcker within Schönbrunn Palace grounds is like stepping into Vienna’s imperial past. The cozy café, situated to the left of the palace’s cour d’honneur, exudes old-world charm with its polished wood, elegant display cases, and vintage touches. From the moment you sit down, you’re greeted with warm Viennese hospitality, which makes the experience feel both special and effortless.

The “Maria Theresia” breakfast is thoughtfully curated. You’ll start with a Viennese organic Kaiser roll, which is crusty on the outside and soft inside — perfect for slathering with butter or jam. The croissant, light and flaky, contrasts nicely with a slice of homemade bread. The cheese selection features Bergbaron and Jerome Käse, offering rich, creamy flavors, balanced with savory honey ham and a soft-boiled organic egg.

What elevates this meal beyond a simple breakfast is the attention to quality and tradition. The jam and honey are from Staud’s, a beloved local producer, ensuring genuine flavors that are hard to find in typical hotel buffets. The hot drink of your choice, whether robust coffee or soothing tea, complements the meal, while the glass of sparkling wine adds a celebratory touch.

The Perfect Fuel for a Palace Adventure

Most travelers report feeling thoroughly energized after this breakfast, ready to explore the palace and its extensive grounds. The well-rounded meal, paired with a hot beverage and bubbly, makes sure you won’t be hungry or dehydrated during your tour. It’s a step above typical “breakfast on the go,” providing both comfort and a taste of Viennese elegance.

The Tour Experience: What to Expect

After breakfast, you’ll head into your scheduled tour of Schönbrunn Palace, which can be booked separately. The experience at Gerstner is designed to give you a gentle, enjoyable start to your day — no rush, plenty of time to savor your meal, and then step out to marvel at the Baroque architecture and sprawling gardens.

The tour guides are often fluent in German and English, and the small group size enhances interaction. Past guests have appreciated the personalized atmosphere, noting how the limited number of participants makes it easier to ask questions and engage with the guide.

While the tour itself is not included in the breakfast package, the breakfast sets a wonderful tone: you’ll emerge fortified, eager to stroll through the enchanting grounds and follow the footsteps of Sisi and Franz. Be sure to check availability, as starting times vary, and booking in advance is highly recommended.

The Location and Logistics: Easy and Convenient

Gerstner’s café is situated conveniently within the Schönbrunn Palace complex, which means you can enjoy your breakfast without any transport fuss. The meeting point is easy to find, just to the left of the palace’s main courtyard, which is perfect for those arriving on foot or via public transport.

The entire breakfast experience lasts about two hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy your meal and then begin your exploration. The activity ends back at the meeting point, so no need for extra transfers.

Flexibility is a plus — you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and reserving your spot is simple with the “reserve now, pay later” option. This makes it a low-stress addition to your Vienna itinerary.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This breakfast is ideal for travelers who appreciate authentic local traditions, good food, and a relaxed atmosphere. It’s perfect for those looking to start their sightseeing energized and with a touch of royal splendor. It suits couples, small groups of friends, or solo travelers who enjoy a leisurely morning with quality cuisine.

If you’re a culture lover who wants to combine a taste of Vienna’s culinary heritage with the chance to walk through one of Europe’s most stunning palaces, this experience hits the sweet spot. Keep in mind, it’s not a comprehensive palace tour — so if you’re eager to go inside, plan to buy a separate ticket.

Practical Tips for a Smooth Experience

• Book early to secure your preferred start time, especially during peak tourist seasons.
• Let the staff know if you have any dietary restrictions or intolerances — they’re accommodating and want everyone to enjoy their meal.
• Arrive promptly at the café, located to the left of the main courtyard, to avoid missing your scheduled breakfast.
• Consider pairing this experience with a full Schönbrunn tour or garden walk afterward — the location makes it easy.
• Remember, the breakfast does not include palace admission — buy your tickets separately if you want to go inside.

Final Thoughts: Worthwhile for Foodies and Culture Seekers

The Imperial breakfast at Schönbrunn from Gerstner offers a lovely blend of tasty Viennese fare and cultural ambiance, making it more than just a meal. It’s a chance to start your day immersed in Vienna’s imperial elegance and local flavors. The high-quality ingredients, cozy setting, and thoughtful presentation make it a worthwhile splurge for anyone wanting a memorable start to their Vienna adventure.

While it might seem pricey at first glance, the quality of the food, the historic setting, and the convenience of the location add up to excellent value — especially when combined with a visit to Schönbrunn Palace. It’s especially suitable for travelers who appreciate a good breakfast, authentic experiences, and a comfortable, small-group environment.

If your schedule allows, this experience helps set the tone for a day filled with exploration, discovery, and a taste of Vienna’s regal past. And if you love wine, the sparkling wine toast is a delightful bonus that adds a celebratory feel to the morning.

FAQ

Does this experience include admission to Schönbrunn Palace?
No, the breakfast does not include palace tickets. You’ll need to purchase a separate ticket if you want to explore the interior.

Can I cancel or reschedule my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The “reserve now, pay later” option provides flexibility for your plans.

Is the breakfast suitable for dietary restrictions?
Yes, the organizer asks to be informed immediately of any intolerances, and they are usually accommodating.

How long does the breakfast last?
The experience typically lasts around two hours, including time to enjoy your meal and start your exploration.

Where exactly is the meeting point?
Gerstner K.u.K. Hofzuckerbäcker is located to the left of the cour d’honneur of Schönbrunn Palace, within the palace grounds.

What is the group size?
The experience is limited to small groups of up to 10 participants, ensuring a relaxed atmosphere.

In essence, this imperial breakfast offers a flavorful, culturally-rich start to your day in Vienna. It suits those who wish to combine the pleasures of good food with an elegant setting, all while keeping logistics simple and straightforward.