3 LESSER-KNOWN VIENNESE PALACES YOU ABSOLUTELY MUST SEE

Vienna has a way of surprising you, no matter how many times you visit. In February 2025, on my third trip to the Austrian capital, I thought I knew the city—but Vienna had other plans. With new exhibitions, & hidden gem undiscovered through social medias, I had plenty to explore on my time there. It’s a city that never stops showing you something new, and I find that amazing. During this visit, I made my way to three hidden gems in the very heart of the city—palaces I’d never heard of before. Behind imposing doors, these historic buildings are witness of the city prestigious Baroque past.

Let me introduce you to Palais Equitable, Palais Kinsky & Palais Ferstel.

Even locals often overlook them. They are private-function buildings, yet during weekdays, they generously open their doors to visitors. And the best part is that they are completely free. So take this opportunity for your next time in Vienna to visit them !

1. THE PALAIS EQUITABLE

Its intricate façade often catches the eye due to its prime location just steps away from the iconic St. Stephen’s Cathedral. Yet, if you only admire it from the street, you’ll miss the real treasure hidden behind its heavy wooden doors. Step inside, and you’ll discover a palace that feels like a well-kept secret.

Built in the late 19th century for an American insurance company, its interior was designed to be opulent, reflecting the financial power of the firm that occupied it. Over a century later, that grandeur is still remarkable. . Black and red marble columns rise majestically, supporting a maze of staircases that lead to multiple floors, while a plush red velvet carpet guides your footsteps through this architectural masterpiece—a stunning example of late 19th-century Viennese Baroque.

Keep in mind that this is a private palace. While brief visits are welcomed, keep your exploration short and respectful of the people who still work and live within its walls.

Palais Equitable – Stock-im-Eisen-Platz 3, Vienna, Austria | Open 24h

2. THE PALAIS KINSKY

This is the kind of place that will leave you in awe. A true gem of Austrian Baroque, Palais Kinsky was built in the early 18th century. As you ascend the staircases, the space reveals its lavishness: marble statues stand amidst lush greenery, while ornate lighting casts a golden glow, completing the Baroque atmosphere.

And then—look up. The ceiling seems to open to the sky itself, alive with celestial and Greco-Roman figures in an allegorical dance celebrating the Kinsky family, the palace’s original owners. This fresco, attributed to Italian artist Carlo Carlone, alone is reason enough to add Palais Kinsky to your must-see list in Vienna. Then, when you look up at the ceiling, you will have the impression that an open sky is above you, with celestial and Greco-Roman figures moving in an allegorical scene to the glory of the Kinsky family, owners of the residence. This ceiling fresco, attributed to the Italian artist Carlo Carlone is in itself the reason why you should add the palais to your must-see places in Vienna.

Today, Palais Kinsky is no longer a private residence but is home to one of Vienna’s most prestigious auction houses (in 2024, they sold a Klimt painting for over €34 million just to give you an idea).

Palais Kinsky – Freyung 4, Vienna, Austria | Closed on Sunday, opened during the regular working hours

3. THE PALAIS FERSTEL

Built between 1856 and 1860 by the brilliant Heinrich von Ferstel—the same architect behind the University of Vienna and the often-overlooked Votivkirche—this palace was originally designed to house the Vienna Stock Exchange and the Austro-Hungarian National Bank.

Its grand façade, a blend of Gothic and Renaissance details, opens onto an elegant courtyard crowned by a fountain of a Danube nymph. Follow the path a little further and you’ll discover the Ferstel Passage, a charming arcade lined with boutiques and cafés. Among them is the Café Central, a true Viennese institution that over the years has welcomed some of the city’s most celebrated intellectuals and politicians. And yes—it’s the perfect spot to pause for a coffee !

Palais Ferstel – Strauchgasse 4, Vienna, Austria | Open 24h