TORONTO — When you think of Vienna, naturally, a city brimming with culture comes to mind.

And if you have a passion for museums or are a history enthusiast, or a little bit of both, a visit is sure to be a delight.

That message and more were delivered by Markus Kustastcher, Tourism Manager for the Kunsthistorisches Museum (KHM), at a recent media event held at the Chelsea Hotel in Toronto, part of a Vienna Tourist Board road show that also included Montreal and Vancouver.

The museum’s opulent entrance hall

MARVEL AT MASTERPIECES

Boasting over 100 museums, Vienna is a treasure trove of history, and the Kunsthistorisches Museum (KHM) is the city’s answer to the Louvre, considered one of the best museums in Vienna and a personal favourite for Kustatscher.

“It’s always a pleasure to enter the museum and maybe host some meetings in the café house,” he told Travelweek. ”After 18 years, it’s still impressive.”

A museum nestled in the heart of the city, KHM is a testament to the artistic legacy of the Habsburg family, who reigned over Europe for over 650 years.

Commissioned by the last emperor, Franz Joseph, in 1891, the museum today houses the vast collection of art acquired by the Habsburgs throughout their long and storied history.

Stepping through the grand entrance of the KHM, be prepared to be greeted by an awe-inspiring array of masterpieces, including works by renowned artists such as Rubens, Vermeer, Velázquez, and Klimt.

Unsurprisingly, the museum not only houses exquisite paintings but also boasts the world’s largest collection of works by Pieter Bruegel the Elder, featuring twelve major pieces that capture the rich heritage of European art.

Six museums in Vienna are part of the KHM association, focusing on imperial collections and artifacts and can be visited with a Vienna PASS or Vienna FLEX. Along with KHM, the other museums include …

1. Ephesos Museum: Displays artifacts from the ancient Roman city of Ephesos

2. Neue Hofburg: Houses the Imperial Armoury and the Collection of Historic Musical Instruments

3. Imperial Armoury: Showcases a collection of arms, armour, and royal regalia

4. Collection of Historic Musical Instruments: Features a rare collection of historical musical instruments

5. Imperial Carriage Museum: Displays the imperial coaches and carriages

MOST ENCHANTING COFFEE HOUSE IN THE WORLD

Beyond its artistic offerings, the KHM is also celebrated for its alluring coffee house, “the most beautiful coffee house in the world,” as Kunstatscher told Travelweek. Located in the

magnificent cupola hall, the café restaurant also offers a unique dining experience every Thursday evening, where guests can indulge in a sumptuous five-course dinner for €69 per person and wander through the museum’s stunning collection throughout the evening.

This exclusive dining experience, which fills up months in advance, creates an unforgettable experience for its visitors.

The Picture Gallery at Kunsthistoriches Museum

SHAPING THE FUTURE

Meanwhile, KHM is not just a guardian of the past. It is actively shaping the future of cultural engagement as a hub of art and culture. The museum has initiated the popular ‘Kunstschatzi,’ an event series designed to appeal to a younger audience, which sells out within minutes.

What’s the attraction?

These monthly after-work parties combine art, music, and conviviality, offering patrons a vibrant atmosphere in which to enjoy a cocktail while being entertained by a live DJ and have the option of a guided tour.

Each month features fresh experiences with a unique theme, such as ‘Dress to Impress’ carnival style or ‘Naughty or Nice’ geared toward the festive holidays in December.

VIENNA BITES: CONTEST OPPORTUNITY

As the city prepares to celebrate 2026 with a ‘Vienna Bites’ theme, the landmark KHM is offering a unique opportunity for travel advisors to win complimentary entrance tickets, a VIP private guided tour, and lunch for two at the Café-Restaurant in the beautiful Cupola Hall at the Kunsthistorisches Museum Vienna.

To enter, simply send an email with ‘KHM Contest Entry’ entered in the subject line to Armando Mendonca, Trade Liaison in Canada for the Vienna Tourist Board, at armando@ampmcanada.ca no later than Dec. 19.

The winner will be announced on Travelweek’s social media platforms on Dec. 22.

For more information on travel to Vienna see Wien.info/en. More details about KHM is at KHM.at/en/visit.

Unforgettable views of the Cupola Hall at Kunsthistoriches Museum in Vienna (all images courtesy KHM)