St. Peter's Church

See St. Peter’s Church along with other city blockbusters like the Hofburg Palace complex, opera house, and St. Stephen’s Cathedral. Most guided tours of Vienna make a stop here, including walking, cycling, and driving tours. Or, download a self-guided audio tour to learn about the church on an independent visit.

The church (rebuilt after the previous building burned down) was consecrated in 1733 and was the first domed structure in Vienna. The church’s two treasures include Johann Michael Rottmayr’s frescoes decorating the inside of the dome and a golden altar depicting the martyrdom of St. John of Nepomuk.

• St. Peter’s is an active place of worship, so opt for modest dress and keep your voice low when visiting.

• The church is home to an immense 18th-century organ, often used during classical music performances.

• Photography is permitted. Visit on a clear day if you would like to capture the frescoes in the best light.

• There is an accessible entrance for wheelchair users and those with strollers.

St. Peter’s Church sits on Petersplatz near the Graben pedestrian area in Vienna’s old town, an easy walk from the city’s top sights. To reach the church from further afield, take the metro lines U1 or U3 to Stephansplatz and take the short walk up along the Graben.

The church is open daily. Visit on a bright day to admire the colorful frescoes and glittering interior, or come at night to catch an organ recital or classical music concert. Avoid stopping by on Sundays during scheduled Mass, when it is difficult to circulate freely around the church.

The seat of the Habsburg Empire is famous for its lavish royal palaces and gardens, but Vienna also is home to spectacular centuries-old churches. The headliner is St. Stephen’s Cathedral (Stephansdom), with soaring Gothic architecture and colorful roof tiles. Another landmark is the Church of St. Charles (Karlskirche), a massive baroque masterpiece with a dome and twin columns. Additional must-sees include the neo-Gothic Votive Church (Votivkirche) and the Church of the Minor Friars (Minoritenkirche).