Just behind the Vienna State Opera, a 17th century palace holds one of the world’s most impressive collections of drawings and prints by the Old Masters. Over one million works attract visitors to the Albertina, which stands as one of the last remainders of Vienna’s old fortifications. 
 

1. Marvel at the Impressionists

The Albertina has two outstanding collections of Impressionists on permanent loan. Year-round you can admire works from the Batliner collection by Impressionists and Post-Impressionists like Monet, Degas, Cézanne, Toulouse-Lautrec, and Gauguin.The Batliner collection also shows several works by Picasso, ranging from his early Cubist paintings and works from his mature period of the 1940s. Even the Russian avant-garde is represented with works by Malevich and Chagall!

2. Immerse yourself in rare drawings 

The Albertina’s collection of over one million prints and drawings is one of the largest in the world! They span most of Western Art History, beginning with late Gothic works and ending in the present. Wile these fragile drawings and prints are usually stored securely, away from the crowds, visitors can peek at select works during special exhibitions. 2021 will bring a large show of printed works that's not to be missed.

3. Wander the Classicist state rooms

One perk of housing a museum inside a former Imperial palace is that the building itself serves as a masterpiece. This is especially true at the Albertina, which used to be the residence of Habsburg Archdukes and Archduchesses. Explore their lavish former living quarters in the 20 state rooms, which feature precious wall coverings, chandeliers, and exquisite furniture. The painstakingly restored quarters will take you back to a time when members of the Imperial family actually wandered the halls of the Albertina.

4. Catch the “Young Hare” by Albrecht Dürer

“Young Hare,” a 1504 watercolour by German artist Albrecht Dürer might be the Albertina’s most iconic work. Because of its fragile condition, “Young Hare” lives in storage for years at a time and only rears its head for special exhibitions. Because of the sensitive nature and exceptional value of Dürer's watercolour, it only goes on display every few years. In the meantime, a perfect replica is permanently on show at the Albertina!