Belvedere Palace Tickets, Tours & Visitor Information

The Belvedere Palace is a historic complex in Vienna, Austria, comprising two magnificent Baroque palaces: the Upper and Lower Belvedere. Built in the early 18th century, it served as the summer residence for Prince Eugene of Savoy, a celebrated military leader. The palaces are renowned for their architectural beauty, featuring ornate facades, lavish interiors, and meticulously designed gardens. 

Today, the Belvedere is a museum showcasing Austrian art from the Middle Ages to the present day. The Upper Belvedere is home to the world's largest collection of Gustav Klimt's paintings, including his iconic masterpiece 'The Kiss'. The Lower Belvedere features exhibitions of Baroque art and temporary displays. A visit offers insights into Austrian history, art, and culture. The surrounding gardens, with their sculptures, fountains, and landscaping, provide a serene escape and enhance the overall experience.

• Booking your Belvedere Palace tickets online offers a seamless and stress-free experience. 
• While tickets can be purchased on-site, buying them in advance guarantees your entry, especially during peak season. 
• Booking online through our website ensures you'll receive verified tickets, often with access to online deals. 
• You can explore different ticket types and tours, and plan your visit with ease, skipping potential queues and maximizing your time.

The Belvedere Palace's history began in the early 18th century when Prince Eugene of Savoy commissioned the construction of a summer residence. Johann Lukas von Hildebrandt, a renowned architect, designed the two palaces. The Upper Belvedere was completed in 1723, followed by the Lower Belvedere in 1716. After Prince Eugene's death in 1736, Empress Maria Theresa acquired the Belvedere. Over time, the Upper Belvedere transformed into an exhibition venue for the imperial art collections. 

In 1781, it opened as one of the first public museums in the world. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the Belvedere became closely associated with the Vienna Secession movement, hosting exhibitions of artists like Gustav Klimt. In 1955, the State Treaty was signed in the Marble Hall of the Upper Belvedere, marking Austria's independence. Today, the Belvedere stands as a symbol of Austrian art, history, and national identity.

The Belvedere complex consists of several sites with distinct opening times. Upper Belvedere is open daily from 9 AM to 7 PM. Lower Belvedere welcomes visitors daily between 10 AM and 6 PM. Belvedere 21 is open from Tuesday to Sunday, 11 AM to 6 PM, with extended hours on Thursdays until 9 PM. Belvedere 21 is closed on Mondays, except for public holidays when regular opening hours apply.

The ideal time to visit the Belvedere Palace is during the spring (April-May) or fall (September-October) months. The weather is pleasant, and the gardens are in full bloom or display vibrant autumn colors. To avoid the largest crowds, consider visiting on a weekday or arriving shortly after opening. This allows you to explore the galleries and gardens at a more leisurely pace.

• Inside the Belvedere Palace, visitors are treated to a visual feast of art and architecture. 
• The Upper Belvedere is the main attraction, housing the Austrian Gallery with masterpieces from the Middle Ages to the present day. 
• The highlight is Gustav Klimt's 'The Kiss' an iconic symbol of Vienna's artistic heritage. 
• The palace's state rooms are adorned with frescoes, stuccowork, and period furnishings, evoking the grandeur of the Baroque era. 
• The Lower Belvedere showcases Baroque art and temporary exhibitions, providing additional cultural experiences. 
• The Marble Hall and the Golden Cabinet are particularly noteworthy for their opulent design. 
• Don't miss the Belvedere gardens, connecting the two palaces. 
• These formal gardens feature sculptures, fountains, and meticulously arranged flower beds, offering a tranquil escape and panoramic views of Vienna. 
• Each space within the Belvedere offers a unique glimpse into Austrian art, history, and imperial life.

Before booking your Belvedere Palace tickets, keep the following in mind: 

• Purchase tickets online in advance to secure your entry and avoid potential queues. 
• Consider a combined ticket to access both the Upper and Lower Belvedere. 
• Photography is generally allowed, but flash photography may be restricted in certain areas. 
• Guided tours are available for a more in-depth exploration of the palace and its art collections. 
• The Belvedere gardens are free to enter and offer a relaxing stroll with scenic views. 
• Check for special exhibitions or events that may be taking place during your visit. 
• Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a fair amount of walking. 
• Allocate at least 2-4 hours to fully experience the Belvedere.

To ensure a pleasant experience for all visitors, the Belvedere Palace has a few simple rules: 

• Please refrain from touching the artworks. 
• Food and drinks are generally not allowed inside the galleries. 
• Large bags and backpacks may need to be checked at the cloakroom. 
• Please be respectful of other visitors and maintain a reasonable noise level.
• Follow the instructions of the museum staff.

The Belvedere Palace is undoubtedly worth visiting. It offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in Austrian art, history, and culture. The chance to stand before Gustav Klimt's 'The Kiss' is an experience in itself, and the opulent Baroque architecture of the palaces is breathtaking. The meticulously landscaped gardens provide a serene escape, offering panoramic views of Vienna. Whether you're an art enthusiast, a history buff, or simply looking for a beautiful place to explore, the Belvedere has something to offer everyone. It's a chance to step back in time and witness the grandeur of imperial Austria, while also appreciating the country's rich artistic heritage. A visit to the Belvedere is an enriching and unforgettable experience.