St Stephen’s Cathedral, or Stephansdom, is the spiritual heart of Vienna and one of the city’s most recognisable landmarks. Rising above Stephansplatz with its patterned tiled roof and Gothic spires, the cathedral has been a focal point of Austrian history and culture for over 700 years.
Today it is both an active place of worship and a key attraction for travellers exploring Vienna.
A symbol of Vienna
The cathedral’s origins date back to the 12th century, but much of the current Gothic structure was completed in the 14th and 15th centuries.
Its 136-metre-high South Tower dominates Vienna’s skyline, while the colourful tiled roof, decorated with geometric patterns and the double-headed eagle of the Habsburg dynasty, is one of the city’s most photographed sights.
Exploring the cathedral interior
Inside, visitors can admire intricate stonework, stained glass windows, and the impressive High Altar built in the 17th century. Highlights include the Pummerin bell, one of the largest in Europe, and the underground catacombs, where visitors can learn about the cathedral’s role in Vienna’s religious history.
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.
Climbing the towers
For panoramic views of Vienna, visitors can climb either the South Tower or take the lift up the North Tower. The South Tower climb involves 343 steps but rewards with sweeping views of the city centre. The North Tower, meanwhile, offers an easier option and a closer look at the famous roof tiles.
Ticket prices for St Stephen’s Cathedral
It is free to enter St Stephen’s Cathedral. However, this free entry basically just covers the nave. All the fun sections, and any guided tours, cost extra, with the pricing being absurdly confusing. As of September 2025 when I checked, these are the prices you’ll have to pay.
All-inclusive ticket
- Adults: €25.00
- Children (ages 6–14, family rate): €7.00
- Includes audio guide, South & North towers, cathedral museum, catacomb tour + free access to the Treasury of the Teutonic Order.
Cathedral visit (independent tour with smartphone audio guide)
- Adults: €7.00
- Children (up to 14): €3.00
- Self-guided groups:
- Adults: €6.00
- Pupils (14–18): €4.00
- Pupils (10–14): €2.00
- Elementary schools: Free
Public cathedral tour
- Adults: €7.00
- Children (up to 14): €3.00
Public catacombs tour
- Adults: €7.00
- Children (ages 6–14): €3.00
North Tower (with Pummerin bell) – elevator to viewing platform
- Adults: €7.00
- School classes (14–18): €5.00
- Children (6–14): €3.00
- School classes (6–14): €3.00
South Tower (Türmerstube) – climb 343 steps
- Adults: €6.50
- School classes (14–18): €4.00
- Children (6–14): €2.50
- School classes (6–14): €2.50
Practical tips for visiting St Stephen’s Cathedral
- Location: Stephansplatz, right in the heart of Vienna’s city centre.
- Opening hours: Generally open daily from early morning until evening; times vary for the main nave, towers, and catacombs.
- Entry: Admission to the main cathedral is free, but fees apply for tower climbs and catacomb tours.
- Best time to visit: Early morning for a quieter experience, or late afternoon when the sun highlights the roof tiles.
- Combine with: A stroll along Kärntner Strasse, one of Vienna’s busiest shopping streets, just outside the cathedral.
FAQs about St Stephen’s Cathedral
- When was St Stephen’s Cathedral built? The earliest parts date back to 1137, with major Gothic elements added in the 14th and 15th centuries.
- Is entry free? Yes, entry to the main nave is free, though guided tours and tower access have fees.
- Can you climb the towers? Yes, both the South Tower and North Tower are open to visitors.
- What is the Pummerin bell? It is the largest bell in Austria, located in the North Tower.
- How do you get there? The cathedral is located at Stephansplatz, easily accessible via the U1 and U3 metro lines.
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 Salzburg train times and ticket prices.
- Visiting Hundertwasserhaus, Vienna’s quirkiest building.
