Explore the Hundertwasserhaus in Vienna. Learn about its unique history, expressionist design, and the best visiting options for tourists.
Hundertwasserhaus in Vienna is one of the city’s most distinctive landmarks. Designed by Austrian artist and architect Friedensreich Hundertwasser, the colourful apartment block stands out for its playful shapes, uneven lines, and rainbow-like façade.
Completed in 1985, it quickly became a symbol of Vienna’s modern creativity and is now a popular stop for visitors interested in art, design, and architecture.
A building unlike any other
Unlike traditional Viennese apartment buildings, Hundertwasserhaus rejects straight lines and uniformity. Its walls are painted in bright blocks of colour, trees sprout from balconies and rooftops, and windows are all different shapes and sizes.
Hundertwasser’s aim was to create a building in harmony with nature, where residents could live in an environment that felt organic rather than rigidly planned.
Five great things to do while you’re in Vienna
- Take a guided bike tour through the Old City and along the Danube.
- Enjoy a classical music concert at St Peter’s Church.
- Taste gruner veltliners and much more on a wine tour through the Weinviertel region.
- See the World Heritage-listed sights of the Wachau Valley on a super-scenic day trip.
- Explore Vienna’s food scene in café’s and markets with an expert guide.
Can you go inside Hundertwasserhaus?
Hundertwasserhaus is a residential building, so the interiors are not open to the public. However, visitors can admire the exterior from the street and take photos of the unique façade.
Just across the road, the Kunst Haus Wien and Hundertwasser Village offer more opportunities to explore Hundertwasser’s work, including a permanent exhibition on his artistic philosophy and environmental ideas.
Why Hundertwasserhaus is worth visiting
For travellers interested in architecture and art, the building offers a fascinating contrast to Vienna’s imperial palaces and historic sites. It highlights the city’s role as a hub of modern creativity as well as tradition. The site is also free to visit, making it an easy and affordable addition to any sightseeing itinerary in Vienna.
Practical tips for visiting Hundertwasserhaus
- Location: The building is at Kegelgasse 34-38, in the Landstraße district of Vienna, around a 15-minute walk from the city centre.
- Public transport: The closest U-Bahn stop is Landstraße (U3, U4), followed by a short walk.
- Best time to visit: Early morning or late afternoon for smaller crowds and better light for photography.
- Combine with: A visit to the nearby Kunst Haus Wien, which showcases Hundertwasser’s art and ideas.
- Entry: Viewing the exterior is free; tickets are required for the museum across the street.
FAQs about Hundertwasserhaus
- Who designed Hundertwasserhaus? The building was designed by Austrian artist Friedensreich Hundertwasser in collaboration with architect Josef Krawina.
- When was it built? Construction began in 1983 and the building was completed in 1985.
- Can people live in Hundertwasserhaus? Yes, it is a functioning apartment building with private residences.
- Is there an entrance fee? No, viewing the building from the outside is free.
- What else is nearby? The Hundertwasser Village and Kunst Haus Wien are both within walking distance and open to visitors.
Things to do near the Hundertwasserhaus
The Hundertwasserhaus is located in Vienna’s Landstrasse district, within easy reach of the historic centre and several major cultural attractions. Many of these sights can be combined by public transport or a longer walk.
Innere Stadt attractions
Vienna’s historic centre brings together several key sights, including St Stephen’s Cathedral and the Hofburg Palace complex. Within the Hofburg, the Imperial Apartments, the Sisi Museum and the Imperial Treasury offer a detailed look at Habsburg court life and imperial history.
House of Music and Mozarthaus Vienna
Both located in the Innere Stadt, these attractions focus on Vienna’s musical heritage. The House of Music uses interactive exhibitions to explore sound and composition, while Mozarthaus Vienna is the composer’s only surviving residence in the city.
Belvedere Palace
A short journey from the Hundertwasserhaus, the Belvedere is a Baroque palace complex set in formal gardens. It is best known for its art collection, including works by Gustav Klimt.
Naschmarkt and the Museum of Art Fakes
The Naschmarkt offers a lively mix of food stalls and cafés and is easily reached by public transport. Close by, the Museum of Art Fakes presents an unusual look at copied and misattributed artworks.
Danube Canal
Close to the Hundertwasserhaus, the Danube Canal is a popular area for walking, with waterside paths, cafés and views back towards the city centre.
More Vienna travel
Other Vienna travel articles on Planet Whitley include:
- Why the Naschmarkt might be your favourite bit of Vienna.
- The incredible stories inside Vienna’s Museum of Art Fakes.
- Leopoldstadt neighbourhood guide.
- Vienna to Ljubljana: Direct train vs indirect train vs bus.
- Vienna to Salzburg train times and ticket prices.
