St. Charles Church Vienna (Karlskirche): Tickets & Tips

The church was built between 1716 and 1739 on the orders of Emperor Charles VI in thanks for the end of the plague. It is named after St. Charles Borromeo, the patron saint of the sick. With St. Charles Church, the famous architect Johann Bernhard Fischer von Erlach created a building that combines influences from ancient Rome, Byzantium and the Baroque – unique in Europe.

Inside you will find magnificent frescoes, a fascinating play of light and space and a panoramic elevator that takes you right up into the dome. From there you can admire the elaborate ceiling paintings up close – an experience few churches in Europe offer. In front of the church, the pool on Karlsplatz invites you to linger and offers one of the most beautiful photo backdrops in Vienna, especially at sunset.

Highlights:

Impressive Baroque dome with unique frescoes
Panoramic elevator into the dome – see the art up close
Two monumental columns with scenes from the life of St. Charles Borromeo
Stunning reflection in the pool in front of the church
Classical concerts and events in a historic setting

St. Charles Church is not only a place of worship but an architectural and cultural experience you should not miss on your visit to Vienna.

Accessible entrance
Guided tours available
Photography allowed

Address: Karlsplatz 10, 1040 Vienna
Get directions

The magnificent Baroque church on Karlsplatz was built after Emperor Charles VI's plague vow and is dedicated to St. Charles Borromeo. Its trademarks are the mighty dome, the two triumphal columns (modeled on Roman commemorative columns) and the magnificent frescoes inside.

You need a ticket to visit the interior. Depending on your interest, allow 30–60 minutes for the church, chapels and information panels. If you also want to go up to the dome, plan some extra time.

Yes, there is access to the dome (depending on the current installation and elevator arrangements; at times via a panoramic elevator). Whether elevator or stairs, availability can vary by season or project. Check the current notices on site.

The best way is the U1/U2/U4 to "Karlsplatz". The church stands right on Resselpark; the main entrance faces the square. It is just a few minutes' walk from the Vienna State Opera or the Ringstrasse.

Classical concerts are held regularly in St. Charles Church, often with works by Vivaldi and other Baroque music. Tickets are sold separately; dates and programs vary.

Discreet photography without flash is usually allowed (please follow the signs). Outside, you can get great shots of the reflection in the pond on Karlsplatz, in the evening light and along the line of sight from the Musikverein across Resselpark to the facade. During Advent, the atmospheric Christmas market adds extra photo opportunities.

No additional photos available.