Belvedere

Background

The Belvedere stands in Landstraße, Vienna's 3rd district, on the southeastern edge of the historic centre. The Upper and Lower Belvedere, the Orangery, the stables and the French Baroque garden form a complete ensemble; between the two palaces the garden unfolds over three terraces, where symmetrical flower beds, pools, steps, cascades and sculptures connect in layers. The whole complex and garden form part of the Historic Centre of Vienna World Heritage site. The Belvedere was the summer palace of Prince Eugene of Savoy, designed mainly by the architect Johann Lucas von Hildebrandt, and the Upper Belvedere was completed in 1723. According to the Belvedere's own account, the Imperial Gallery moved into the Upper Belvedere from 1777, and it is often described as one of the world's first art museums open to the public. Today the Belvedere is a major Austrian art museum, with a collection spanning from the Middle Ages to the present day.

Local customs

• See The Kiss and the permanent collection of Austrian art at the Upper Belvedere
• see special exhibitions and Baroque halls at the Lower Belvedere
• stroll the garden and take in the classic view of Vienna's old town from the Upper Belvedere
• look out for the garden sculptures that link Prince Eugene with the god Apollo.

Travel tips

• Ticket prices and opening hours are as shown on the official website
• allow half a day for the two palaces and the garden. The garden can be very sunny in summer, so bring drinking water and sun protection
• there are more events around public holidays, so check opening arrangements in advance.
• Trams and the metro reach the 3rd district, and the palaces are a short walk from the stop
• if you drive, use nearby car parks, with charges as shown officially. The garden is at its best in spring and summer, while winter suits indoor exhibitions better.