Visiting the Hundertwasserhaus in Vienna: history, how to get there, hours and tips

The Hundertwasserhaus is one of the most iconic and colourful spots in Vienna. This quirky building, the work of artist and architect Friedensreich Hundertwasser, is one of Vienna's main tourist attractions. In this guide, I'll tell you everything you need to know to visit this incredible place, including its history, how to get there, what to see and practical tips to make the most of your visit.

History of the Hundertwasserhaus

The building was designed in the 1980s by Friedensreich Hundertwasser, known for his unique style and his philosophy of organic architecture, alongside the architect Josef Krawina. Hundertwasser believed in a more natural architecture, where vivid colours, curved lines and gardens took centre stage. His aim was to create a space that combined art, nature and urban life. The Hundertwasserhaus was completed in 1985 and has since been an example of art applied to everyday life.

The building is a mix of bright colours, irregular mosaics and lush greenery. You won't find any straight lines here; the walls and floors are wavy, and the roofs are covered in plants, reflecting Hundertwasser's idea that nature should be integrated into architecture.

How to get to the Hundertwasserhaus?

The Hundertwasserhaus is in Vienna's Landstraße district, at Kegelgasse 36-38, 1030 Vienna. There are several ways to get there:

By public transport

• Metro: the nearest metro station is Landstraße (U3 and U4). From there, it's about a 10-15 minute walk to the building.
• Tram: take tram 1 or O to the Hetzgasse stop. From here, you're just a few minutes' walk away.
• Bus: bus line N29 also has a stop near the building.

By car

If you decide to go by car, it's important to bear in mind that parking in this area is quite limited and paid. I'd recommend finding a nearby car park to leave the car and walking to the area.

What to see at the Hundertwasserhaus?

The exterior of the building

The Hundertwasserhaus is a residential building, so you can't visit the interior. However, the exterior is a work of art in itself, with its façades covered in vibrant colours, mosaics and greenery. It's a great place to take photos and admire the design details, such as the windows of different sizes and shapes, the trees growing on the balconies and the unique decorative elements.

Kunst Haus Wien – Hundertwasser Museum

Just a 5-minute walk from the Hundertwasserhaus is the Kunst Haus Wien, a museum dedicated to Hundertwasser's work. Here you can learn more about his philosophy, his art and his focus on sustainability. The museum houses a permanent exhibition on the artist's life, as well as temporary contemporary-art exhibitions. It's a must for anyone wanting to delve deeper into Hundertwasser's work.

• Opening hours: open every day from 10:00 to 18:00.
• Admission: general entry costs around €12 for adults. Under-19s usually get free or discounted entry. If you'd rather have it sorted before your trip, you can book your Kunst Haus Wien ticket in advance.

Village Hundertwasser

Right opposite the Hundertwasserhaus, you'll find the Village Hundertwasser, a small shopping arcade with souvenir shops, cafés and a free exhibition about the building project. Here you can buy unique souvenirs inspired by Hundertwasser's style, such as postcards, magnets and art items.

The Hundertwasser Village Café

Inside the Village, you'll find a café decorated in Hundertwasser's style, with wavy floors and colourful décor. It's the perfect place to have a coffee or a typical Viennese cake while enjoying the artistic atmosphere.

The Hundertwasserhaus is a residential building, so you can't visit the interior and it has no specific opening hours. However, you can admire its façade at any time of day.

Opening hours

To visit the exterior of the Hundertwasserhaus I'd recommend the following times:

• Morning (8:00 – 10:00): ideal for avoiding the crowds and taking photos in peace.
• Evening (17:00 – 19:00): a good time to enjoy the soft light of dusk.

Village Hundertwasser and Kunst Haus Wien

• Village Hundertwasser:
  • Opening hours: every day from 9:00 to 18:00.
• Kunst Haus Wien (Hundertwasser Museum):
  • Opening hours: open every day from 10:00 to 18:00.

I'd recommend confirming the opening hours before your visit, as they can change on public holidays or for special events.

Tips for visiting the Hundertwasserhaus

1. Visit early: the area is usually very busy during the day, especially in summer. If you'd rather enjoy the place with fewer people, try to arrive nice and early.
2. Remember it's a residential building: although it's a tourist attraction, the Hundertwasserhaus is home to many people, so respect the residents' privacy and limit your visit to the exterior.
3. Explore the surroundings: the Landstraße district has other points of interest nearby, like Stadtpark, home to the famous golden statue of Johann Strauss, and Belvedere Palace, a beautiful Baroque palace with stunning gardens.
4. Bring your camera: the building is extremely photogenic, with its unique colours and shapes. Make sure you have enough space on your camera or phone to capture all the details.
5. Combine the visit with the Prater: if you're travelling with kids or simply want a different experience, you can combine your visit with a stroll around the Prater, Vienna's most famous amusement park, a few minutes away by public transport.

Did you know…

• Hundertwasser hated straight lines, considering them 'unnatural'. That's why, both in the building's design and in his works, curved and organic lines predominate.
• He was a pioneer in integrating sustainable elements into his design. The greenery growing on the balconies and roofs helps improve the air and reduce noise.
• Hundertwasser believed everyone should have the right to decorate their window as they liked, which is why, in this building, each apartment is unique and has its own character.

So now you know — if you're going to visit Vienna, don't forget to include the Hundertwasserhaus in your itinerary and enjoy one of the most colourful spots in Vienna.