MAK – Museum of Applied Arts, Vienna, Ticket

Visiting Vienna offers a wealth of cultural gems, but if you’re passionate about design, applied arts, and architecture, the MAK – Austrian Museum of Applied Arts should be at the top of your list. For $19.16 per person, you can skip the long lines and dive straight into a uniquely inspiring collection that spans from Medieval craftsmanship to cutting-edge contemporary art. This experience lasts about 1 to 2 hours, making it a perfect addition to a busy sightseeing day in Vienna.

What we love about this ticket is the focus on Vienna 1900, a period of artistic and social transformation, and the presence of a Design Lab, where creativity is on full display. The museum’s variety of exhibits and temporary shows keeps the experience fresh and engaging, whether you’re an art connoisseur or simply curious.

One possible drawback is that, with only 1-2 hours, you might not see everything, especially if you’re an avid museum hopper. Also, while the skip-the-line ticket is a real plus, on less crowded days, you might find queuing isn’t as long as anticipated. This ticket is best suited for travelers who want a seamless, high-quality art experience without wasting time, and those with an interest in design history or Vienna’s cultural revolutions.

If you’re traveling with family or just love exploring museums that combine historical artifacts with modern innovation, this tour suits you well. It’s also ideal for those who appreciate architecture, as the building itself is worth a look.

• Skip the lines to maximize your time inside Vienna’s leading applied arts museum
• Diverse collection from the Middle Ages to today, with special focus on Vienna 1900
• Design Lab offers interactive and contemporary design exhibits
• Free digital guide and free Wi-Fi enhance your visit
• Children and teens under 19 get free entry, making it family-friendly
• The museum building itself is an architectural highlight worth noting

The MAK – Austrian Museum of Applied Arts isn’t just a gallery—it’s a celebration of how craftsmanship, design, and artistic innovation have shaped Vienna over centuries. For those visiting Vienna, this museum offers a compact yet comprehensive peek into the city’s creative soul, all accessible with a convenient skip-the-line ticket.

Location and Accessibility

Situated in the heart of Vienna, the MAK is near major public transit routes, making it easy to include in your city itinerary. The opening hours extend from 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM on Tuesdays, giving you plenty of flexibility. The museum’s proximity to public transportation also means you won’t waste time traveling around—perfect for short visits.

Why Book the Ticket?

The main draw is the avoidance of long queues, especially during busy tourist seasons or weekends. With a ticket costing just over $19, you gain access to all permanent and temporary exhibits, plus extras like a free digital guide, Wi-Fi, and the cloakroom. For families or groups, the fact that children under 19 enter for free adds great value.

What’s Inside?

Stepping inside, you’ll find a space that marries historic craftsmanship with modern design. The permanent collection showcases objects from the Middle Ages through contemporary pieces, illustrating the evolution of applied arts. Highlights include rare exhibits from the Vienna 1900 period, a time when Vienna was at the forefront of arts and social change, and a diverse array of furniture, jewelry, textiles, and glassware.

The Vienna 1900 section is especially compelling; with around 500 exhibits, it illuminates a period of social upheaval and artistic brilliance, revealing how design reflected and influenced societal shifts. According to reviews, this part “shines a light on the art historical as well as sociopolitical aspects of Vienna,” giving visitors a layered understanding of this transformative era.

The Design Lab and Temporary Exhibitions

The Design Lab is a highlight for modern design lovers. It offers hands-on displays and innovative projects, showcasing how design continues to evolve. Temporary exhibitions keep the experience fresh, and we loved that the museum remains an “innovative art institution” by constantly updating its offerings.

The Building and Atmosphere

Beyond the exhibits, many reviews praise the architecture of the MAK building itself. It’s a space that invites exploration, with spacious galleries and a welcoming atmosphere. The building often becomes part of the experience, adding to the sense that you’re walking through a piece of living design history.

Reviews and Real Experiences

Reviewers consistently praise the museum for its variety and quality. Anne_M called it “a wondrous space” and one of the best museums in Vienna. Others appreciated how the exhibits span centuries, making it suitable for both casual visitors and design enthusiasts.

Some found the restaurant on-site to be decent, and others noted that crowds are manageable, especially if you visit during non-peak hours. One reviewer mentioned, “The MAK was not crowded on the day that we visited, so we could have skipped the ‘skip the line’ tickets,” but the guaranteed entrance is a comfort during busy times.

Practical Tips

• Book your tickets 30 days in advance to secure your preferred date, especially during high season.
• Allocate about 1 to 2 hours for a thorough visit—more if you’re a design buff or want to explore every corner.
• Use the free digital guide to enhance understanding of exhibits.
• If visiting with children, note that admission is free for under-19s.
• Combine your visit with nearby attractions since it’s centrally located.

This experience is ideal for travelers who love design, architecture, and applied arts—whether you’re a seasoned professional or a curious newcomer. It suits families, couples, and solo visitors alike, especially those who value efficient, well-curated cultural experiences. If you’re interested in Vienna’s 1900s cultural revolutions, the MAK offers a concentrated dose of enlightenment.

Those who appreciate modern and contemporary design will find the Design Lab a particular highlight, while history buffs will enjoy the rare medieval and early modern artifacts. However, if you’re mainly after classical art or grand palaces, you might want to visit other Vienna museums.

The MAK – Austrian Museum of Applied Arts offers a balanced blend of history, design, and innovation. For just over $19, and with the ability to skip the lines, you get a focused, enriching experience that showcases Vienna’s influence on creative arts worldwide. The building itself is worth a visit, and the exhibits cater to a wide range of interests, from Medieval craftmanship to modern design.

This tour is particularly suited for those who want a time-efficient, high-value museum experience—perfect for a cultural deep dive without the overwhelm of larger, sprawling museums. Whether you’re an art lover or just looking to see how Vienna’s creative spirit has evolved, the MAK will leave you inspired.

Is this ticket valid for all exhibits?
Yes, your ticket grants access to both the permanent collection and all temporary exhibitions.

Can I book the ticket in advance?
Absolutely. It’s recommended to book about 30 days ahead to secure your preferred date and avoid disappointment.

Does the ticket include a guided tour?
No, but it includes a free digital guide that can help you understand the exhibits better.

Is there any age restriction?
Children and teens under 19 enter free, making it family-friendly.

How long should I plan to spend here?
Most visitors spend about 1 to 2 hours, but if you’re passionate about design, you might want to spend longer.

Are there facilities like Wi-Fi and lockers?
Yes, the museum offers free Wi-Fi and a free cloakroom for your convenience.

Is it accessible for people with mobility issues?
While not explicitly stated, the museum’s modern facilities and central location suggest good accessibility.

What’s the best time to visit?
Visit during weekday mornings or early afternoons to avoid potential crowds; the museum’s extended hours on Tuesdays help with flexibility.