The Museum of Natural History

The Naturhistoriches Museum (Museum of Natural History) is housed in an imposing building opposite the Art History Museum. Much like the Art History Museum, it showcases a breathtaking variety of objects collected by the Habsburgs over years. Everything from taxidermy specimens of animals and birds (some of them now extinct) to minerals and gemstones, the museum is a science geek’s dream come true. The museum is full of curiosities such as the 4.5-inch tall figurine of Venus of Willendorf; a slightly misshapen limestone carving of a woman dating back to the Palaeolithic period (25,000 years ago). There are enormous skeletons of dinosaurs that are sure to be a hit amongst the kids, especially the allosaurus that moves and gives out an almighty roar! The museum also houses about 1,100 meteorites, said to be the largest and oldest collection in the world. Be dazzled by a 117 kg giant topaz in the museum’s Gem Hall or get a virtual trip to the edge of the Milky Way in the Digital Planetarium. The museum also has detailed exhibits that explain the origin of species in a fun, interactive way. You can go on a cultural-history walk on the museum’s rooftop and get a fantastic view of Vienna while you’re at it. Tours (in English) run on Sundays at 3 pm In 2015 to celebrate 150 years of the Ringstrasse, the museum will be offering these tours on Fridays and Saturdays as well.