Belvedere Palace, Vienna

Belvedere Palace is actually a palace complex consisting of Upper Belvedere, Lower Belvedere, and Belvedere 21, which is a modern art museum, Orangerie, Palace stables, Privy Garden, two large gardens, and a reflecting pool. Constructions of both lower and upper Belvedere palaces started in the early 18th century.

Upper Belvedere is a large palace with three levels (ground floor and two upper floors) with art exhibits from Klimt, Schiele, Funke, Monet, and van Gogh and covering art periods such as Viennese Biedermeier, Austrian Baroque, Vienna in the 1900s, and French Impressionism.

Many visitors are flocking to the first-floor exhibition of Gustav Klimt and its world-famous piece, The Kiss. It is totally worth it.

Lower Belvedere is a former residence of Prince Eugene. The opulent lifestyle of Prince Eugene is showcased in Groteskensaal (Hall of the Grotesque), the Marble Gallery, and the Golden Room. Treasures from the Middle Ages are exhibited in the Palace Stables. Art exhibitions from various periods are showcased in the palace.

Belvedere 21 is a modern addition to the Belvedere complex, and it hosts modern art exhibitions from art, music, and film from both Austrian and international authors.

Belvedere palace is one of the most visited art and museum complexes in Vienna.

Belvedere Palace in Vienna is one of the city’s most iconic and historically significant landmarks. Here are detailed facts, figures, and visitor information for those planning to explore this magnificent site:

Facts and Figures

History and Architecture

• Construction Period: The Belvedere Palace was built between 1717 and 1723.
• Architect: The palace was designed by the renowned Baroque architect Johann Lucas von Hildebrandt.
• Commissioned By: The complex was commissioned by Prince Eugene of Savoy, a celebrated military leader.
• Structure: The Belvedere is actually two Baroque palaces, the Upper Belvedere (Oberes Belvedere) and the Lower Belvedere (Unteres Belvedere), connected by a grand, terraced garden.
• UNESCO World Heritage Site: The Belvedere was designated as part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site Historic Centre of Vienna in 2001.

Art Collections

• Austrian Gallery: The Belvedere houses one of Austria’s most significant art collections.
• Gustav Klimt: The Upper Belvedere is famous for its collection of works by Gustav Klimt, including “The Kiss” (Der Kuss).
• Other Artists: The collection also features works by Egon Schiele, Oskar Kokoschka, and other prominent Austrian artists.

Gardens

• Design: The gardens are designed in the French formal style, featuring symmetrical patterns, fountains, cascades, and statues.
• Botanical Features: The gardens are home to various plant species and provide a picturesque setting for the palaces.

Visitor Information

Opening Hours

• Upper Belvedere:
  • Monday to Sunday: 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
  • Fridays: 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM
• Lower Belvedere and Orangery:
  • Monday to Sunday: 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
• Belvedere 21 (Museum of Contemporary Art):
  • Wednesday to Sunday: 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM
  • Thursdays: 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM

Admission Fees

• Upper Belvedere:
  • Adults: €16
  • Seniors (65+), Students (under 26): €13.50
  • Children and Youth (under 19): Free
• Lower Belvedere:
  • Adults: €14
  • Seniors (65+), Students (under 26): €11.50
  • Children and Youth (under 19): Free
• Combination Tickets (Upper & Lower Belvedere):
  • Adults: €22
  • Seniors (65+), Students (under 26): €18.50
  • Children and Youth (under 19): Free

Guided Tours

• Availability: Guided tours are available in multiple languages.
• Booking: It’s recommended to book tours in advance through the official Belvedere website or at the ticket counters.

Facilities and Services

• Accessibility: The Belvedere is equipped with facilities for visitors with disabilities, including wheelchair access.
• Cafés and Restaurants: The complex features several cafés and restaurants where visitors can enjoy refreshments.
• Gift Shops: There are gift shops offering a range of souvenirs, art books, and memorabilia.
• Restrooms: Available throughout the palace complex.

How to Get There

• Public Transport:
  • Tram: Lines D, 18, O stop at “Schloss Belvedere” for Upper Belvedere.
  • Subway: U1 to “Südtiroler Platz-Hauptbahnhof” and then a short walk.
  • Bus: Bus 13A stops near the Belvedere.
• Walking: The Belvedere is a 15-20 minute walk from Vienna’s main train station (Wien Hauptbahnhof).

Visitor Tips

• Early Arrival: To avoid crowds, it’s best to visit early in the day, especially during peak tourist seasons.
• Combination Tickets: Consider purchasing combination tickets for access to both the Upper and Lower Belvedere to get the full experience.
• Photography: Non-flash photography is typically allowed, but be sure to check specific rules in each gallery.
• Check Exhibitions: The Belvedere frequently hosts temporary exhibitions, so check the schedule in advance for any special displays during your visit.

Conclusion

The Belvedere Palace offers a rich blend of history, art, and architecture, making it a must-visit destination in Vienna. Whether you’re an art enthusiast or simply looking to enjoy beautiful Baroque architecture and gardens, the Belvedere provides a memorable experience.