Belvedere Palace Visitors Guide

Navigate the palaces, gardens, and collections like a pro. Find out what to see, how to get here, and tips for a memorable visit.

The Belvedere is a vast complex with three main venues and extensive gardens. This guide will help you understand the layout and prioritize what to see, whether you have two hours or a full day. For more planning help, see our pages on opening hours and the best time to visit.

What to See at the Belvedere

Upper Belvedere

The main attraction for most visitors. This is where you'll find the permanent collection of Austrian art from the Middle Ages to the present day. The absolute highlight is the world's largest collection of Gustav Klimt paintings, featuring "The Kiss" and "Judith". Don't miss the magnificent Marble Hall and the famous Canaletto view of Vienna from the top floor.

Lower Belvedere & Orangery

Once the residential palace of Prince Eugene of Savoy, the Lower Belvedere now hosts prestigious temporary exhibitions. The magnificent state rooms, including the Hall of Grotesques, Marble Gallery, and Golden Room, offer a glimpse into Baroque courtly life. The adjacent Orangery also serves as an exhibition space.

The Baroque Gardens

Connecting the two palaces are the stunning Baroque gardens, a masterpiece of landscape design. Free to enter, the gardens are arranged on three levels with tiered fountains, trimmed hedges, and sculptures based on Greek and Roman mythology. They offer a perfect place for a stroll and provide beautiful photo opportunities of the palaces.

How to Get Here

The Belvedere Palace is centrally located and easily accessible via Vienna's excellent public transport system. The complex has different entrances for each building.

For the Upper Belvedere (Prinz-Eugen-Straße 27): Take Tram D to the "Schloss Belvedere" stop. Alternatively, the U1 subway to "Südtiroler Platz / Hauptbahnhof" is about a 15-minute walk away.

For the Lower Belvedere (Rennweg 6): Take Tram 71 to the "Unteres Belvedere" stop. The two palaces are connected by the gardens, which is about a 15-minute walk.

Visitor Guide FAQ

Practical information for your visit

Which palace should I visit if I only have time for one?
If you only have time for one, visit the Upper Belvedere. It contains the famous permanent collection, including Klimt's "The Kiss", which is the main draw for most visitors.
Is there a cloakroom?
Yes, free cloakrooms and lockers are available at all locations. Large bags, backpacks, and umbrellas must be checked in. See our rules page for size limits.
Can I buy tickets at the palace?
Yes, but queues can be very long, and time slots for the Upper Belvedere can sell out. We strongly recommend booking your tickets online in advance to guarantee entry and save time.
Are there guided tours?
Yes, both live guided tours and audio guides are available. Audio guides for the Upper Belvedere can be rented on-site for €5. Check our guided tours page for more information.
Is there a café or restaurant?
Yes, there are several dining options, including the Schlosscafé and Parkcafé. You can find more details on our food and drinks page.
How do I get between the Upper and Lower Belvedere?
You can walk through the beautiful Baroque gardens, which takes about 15-20 minutes. The path is on a gentle slope.
What is Belvedere 21?
Belvedere 21 is the museum's venue for contemporary art, located near the Upper Belvedere. It showcases Austrian and international art from 1945 to the present day and requires a separate ticket.