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Vienna Belvedere Palaces and Belvedere Museums, Ultimate Visitor Guide

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Last Updated on March 26, 2023 by gregor

Vienna is known for its rich history and culture, and one of its most popular attractions is the Belvedere Palace and Galleries. If you’re planning a trip to Vienna, this is one place that should definitely be on your itinerary. As a local living in Vienna, I can write about my personal experiences and I can provide you with all the information you need to know about the Belvedere Palace and Galleries, including its history, highlights, and practical information for your visit.

Why visit the Belvedere Palace and Museums?

  • The world-class art collection, including works by famous Austrian artists
  • The rich history and stunning Baroque architecture
  • Scenic views of Vienna from the gardens
  • Hosts cultural events throughout the year.

How to get to the Belvedere Palace

Directions to the Upper Belvedere Palace

Address: Prinz Eugen-Straße 27, 1030 Vienna | Website

by Tram: take the D line to the Schloss Belvedere stop right outside the palace

by Subway: U1 (get out at Hauptbahnhof station and walk around 15 minutes to the palace, or catch the 18, O, or D trams).

by Bus: 13a (get out at Mommsengasse and take a short 10-minute walk or catch trams from nearby Hauptbahnhof).

Directions to the Lower Belvedere Palace

Address: Rennweg 6, 1030 Vienna, 

by Tram: take the 71 line to the Untere Belvedere stop right outside the palace

Upper or Lower Belvedere Tickets

Book your Upper or Lower Belvedere Tickets here

Visit the Belvedere Vienna museum and its amazing Baroque venues, the Upper Belvedere for Klimt’s Kiss & Permanent Collection or the Lower Belvedere for Temporary Exhibitions.

Quick History of the Belvedere Palace and Galleries

Palaces of Price Eugene

The Belvedere palaces were built in the early 18th century for Prince Eugene of Savoy, a famous military commander who fought against the Ottoman Empire. The palaces were originally designed as summer residences for the prince and were built as a symbol of his power and wealth. The Prince Eugene Winter Palace is located in the City Center of Vienna (Address: 1010, Vienna Himmelpfortgasse 1)

Over the years, the palaces underwent many changes and renovations. During the Austro-Hungarian Empire, the palaces were used as a museum, and today, they house one of the most important collections of Austrian art. The complex was also used as the headquarters of the Allied Commission in Austria after World War II.

The Belvedere Palace and Galleries Today

The complex is divided into two parts, the Upper Belvedere and the Lower Belvedere, both of which are open to the public.

Upper Belvedere Palace and Museum Vienna

The Upper Belvedere is the main attraction and houses the most famous works of art in the Belvedere collection. Some of the highlights include Gustav Klimt’s “The Kiss,” which is one of the most famous paintings in the world, and works by other Austrian artists such as Egon Schiele and Oskar Kokoschka. The palace itself is also a work of art, with its stunning Baroque architecture and beautiful gardens.

Must-See Highlight: Gustav Klimt Collection and the famous “The Kiss”

This collection showcases Klimt’s iconic and influential works, featuring his famous painting “The Kiss.” This painting has become an emblem of the Austrian Art Nouveau movement, with its vivid colors and intricate details. Completed in 1907-1908, this work of art is one of Klimt’s most recognizable masterpieces and is beloved by many. The other works featured in the collection are just as impressive, with their detailed use of gold, copper and silver leafing to create a unique aesthetic. Seeing this collection in person is truly a memorable experience that will leave you feeling inspired and mesmerized.

Lower Belvedere Palace and Museum in Vienna

The Lower Belvedere, on the other hand, is home to temporary exhibitions and events. It’s also worth a visit for its stunning architecture and beautiful gardens.

Lower Belvedere also includes:

  • The Palace Stables: now showing part of the medieval art collection
  • The Orangery: now converted into more exhibition space
  • The Privy Garden: a more private garden adjoining the Orangery

Tickets and Visitor Tips – Things to know

If you’re planning a visit to the Belvedere Palace and Galleries, there are a few things you should know to make the most of your visit.

Book your Upper or Lower Belvedere Tickets here

Buy Tickets in Advance

First, it’s best to buy your tickets in advance. This will save you time waiting in line, especially during peak tourist season. You can purchase tickets online or at the ticket office on-site.

The ticket area has a shop with more Klimt souvenirs than you can shake a paintbrush at. Even the cat in the famous photo of the artist had its own souvenir on my visit. Lower Belvedere palace and Belvedere 21 also have ticket counters and shops.

Take your time

When you arrive, make sure to take your time and enjoy the art and architecture. The Upper Belvedere is the main attraction, but the Lower Belvedere is also worth a visit.

Visit the Belvedere Gardens

The gardens are also a highlight, so take a stroll and enjoy the beauty of the landscape.

Belvedere Audio Guide

If you’re interested in learning more about the history and art of the Belvedere Palace and Galleries, there are audio guides available in several languages.

Join a Guided Tour

You can also join a guided tour, which is a great way to learn more about the art and architecture of the complex.

Belvedere: World-Class Art & Aristocratic Utopias Tour

Vienna’s Belvedere complex is an architectural masterpiece of aristocratic splendor. Enjoy a 2.5-hour tour of the grounds, palaces, and museum, as your art historian guide shows you the highlights and then shows you some of the museum’s top works of art.

BOOK YOUR BELVEDERE WORLD-CLASS ART & ARISTOCRATIC UTOPIAS TOUR HERE

PREMIUM: Vienna: Private Tour of Klimt’s Art with Entry Tickets

Admire the paintings of Gustav Klimt on this private guided tour with museum entry included. Get an in-depth understanding of his works in Vienna’s the Belvedere, the Secession, and the Leopold.

BOOK YOUR PRIVATE GUIDED TOUR HERE

Cafés at the Belvedere Palaces

Regarding food and drink, there is a café in the Lower Belvedere that serves snacks and beverages. You can also bring your own food and have a picnic in the gardens.

Overall, visiting the Belvedere Palace and Galleries is an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re an art lover or just interested in history and culture, this complex is a must-visit in Vienna.

Visiting the Belvedere Gardens (Baroque Gardens)

The gardens surrounding the palace are also stunning, and they offer a nice break from the hustle and bustle of the city. The gardens are impeccably maintained and provide a serene space to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature.

Vienna Belvedere Palace Gardens

In conclusion, My Experience

The Belvedere Palace and Galleries is one of the most important cultural landmarks in Vienna. Its stunning architecture and world-renowned art collection make it a must-see destination for anyone visiting the city. As someone who loves history and art, I can tell you that the Belvedere Palace and Galleries did not disappoint.

Walking through the Upper Belvedere, I was struck by the beauty of Baroque architecture and the incredible art collection. The highlight of the collection, of course, is Gustav Klimt’s “The Kiss.” This painting is breathtaking in person, and it’s easy to see why it’s one of the world’s most famous works of art. Seeing it up close was an experience I will never forget.

But “The Kiss” is just one of many incredible works of art at the Belvedere Palace and Galleries. The collection includes works by some of Austria’s most famous artists, including Egon Schiele and Oskar Kokoschka. I was particularly impressed by the large number of works by Klimt, as I had only seen a few of his paintings before.

The gardens surrounding the palace are also stunning, and they offer a nice break from the hustle and bustle of the city. The gardens are impeccably maintained and provide a serene space to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature.

Overall, my experience visiting the Belvedere Palace and Galleries was unforgettable. The history and beauty of the complex, combined with the incredible art collection, make it a must-visit for anyone traveling to Vienna. I highly recommend taking the time to explore both the Upper and Lower Belvedere, as well as the gardens. Whether you’re a history buff, art lover, or just someone who appreciates beauty, the Belvedere Palace and Galleries is an experience you won’t forget.

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