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St Stephen's Cathedral
Stephansdom · Vienna (Stephansplatz), Austria
A Viennese landmark with a coloured tiled roof, witness to many great events in Habsburg and Austrian history.
Know before you go
- Don't walk around the nave taking photos during mass
- don't enter in revealing clothes
- don't use flash in the altar area
This article is Not yet verified. Please check official announcements for prices, opening hours and dates.
Culture
Culture & customs
Background
After the Treaty of Mautern in 1137 a new parish church began to be built here, consecrated to St Stephen in 1147. Its present Romanesque and Gothic appearance is mainly due to Duke Rudolf IV (1339–1365). When heating was installed in 2000, graves carbon-dated to the 4th century were found beneath the church, showing it was a burial ground in Roman times. It is the cathedral of the Archdiocese of Vienna, and its coloured tile roof is one of the city's most recognisable sights.
Local customs
- Daily masses are still held, and some areas are closed during services
- the tower climb and catacombs need separate tickets
Religion & beliefs
Catholic cathedral of the Archdiocese of Vienna.
Etiquette
Etiquette & taboos
Rules that apply here
Austria: be ready to show your passport
- Carry your passport
- Assuming your driving licence counts as ID
The law requires you to be able to show your passport at all times; Austria does not accept a UK driving licence as official ID.
Verified Oct 19, 2026Source: GOV.UK: Austria travel advice
Austria: buy a vignette before using the motorway
- Stick the motorway vignette on the inside of the windscreen
- Driving on motorways and expressways without a vignette
You will be fined.
Verified Oct 19, 2026Source: GOV.UK: Austria travel advice
Don’t DON'T
- Don't walk around the nave taking photos during mass
- don't enter in revealing clothes
- don't use flash in the altar area
Locals appreciate DO
Viennese appreciate visitors who lower their voices on entering and stand quietly at the back during mass.
Plan your visit
Practical info
| Best time | Morning |
|---|---|
| Time needed | 1 hour |
Travel tips
- It's in the very centre of the old town, within walking distance of the Hofburg and many old cafés
- the South Tower climb is several hundred steps, so only if you're up to it
Sources & verification notes
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