As the morning sun bathes Vienna in golden light, you find yourself strolling along the tree-lined Prinz Eugen-Straße, approaching two of the city’s most breathtaking Baroque masterpieces—the Belvedere Palaces. The grandeur of the Upper and Lower Belvedere unfolds before you, their ornate façades gleaming against the crisp Austrian sky. Centuries of history whisper through the palace walls, where emperors once walked, world-renowned artists found their place, and defining moments in European history unfolded.
A visit to the Belvedere Palaces is not just about admiring exquisite Baroque architecture; it’s a journey through time, a deep dive into Austria’s imperial past, and an immersion into one of the most remarkable art collections in Europe. Whether you’re drawn by the iconic kiss of Gustav Klimt, the stunning gardens, or the historical significance of these palaces, the Belvedere complex promises an unforgettable experience.
A palace born from victory: the history of the Belvedere
The story of the Belvedere Palaces begins in the late 17th century with Prince Eugene of Savoy. A brilliant military strategist of French descent, Eugene played a key role in defeating the Ottoman Empire at the gates of Vienna in 1683. As a reward for his victories, he acquired large tracts of land in Vienna’s third district and commissioned the celebrated Baroque architect Johann Lukas von Hildebrandt to design his grand summer residence.
Completed between 1712 and 1723, the Belvedere Palaces were among the most splendid architectural projects of their time. The complex consists of two separate palaces—the Upper Belvedere and the Lower Belvedere—connected by a magnificent garden that reflects French-style formal landscaping, reminiscent of the gardens at Versailles.
After Prince Eugene’s death in 1736, his possessions, including an extensive art collection and a vast library, were inherited by his niece, who later sold the estate to Empress Maria Theresa in 1742. The empress saw an opportunity to establish a public art museum, and in 1779, the Upper Belvedere became one of the world’s first museums accessible to the general public.
Fast forward to 1955, and the Upper Belvedere again found itself at the center of history—it was here that the Austrian State Treaty was signed, officially restoring Austria’s independence after World War II.
The two palaces: upper & lower Belvedere
Though built as a unified estate, the Upper and Lower Belvedere each serve distinct purposes, reflecting the grandeur and personal taste of Prince Eugene of Savoy. The Upper Belvedere, with its lavish halls and commanding presence, was designed to impress, while the Lower Belvedere functioned as a more intimate residence, a place of retreat amidst the bustling imperial capital. Together, they form a harmonious Baroque masterpiece, seamlessly blending architecture, art, and history into one breathtaking complex.
The upper Belvedere: A temple of art
The Upper Belvedere, the larger and more ornate of the two, is home to Austria’s most prestigious collection of art. Originally used by Prince Eugene to house his vast collection, it now serves as a museum showcasing some of the most important pieces in Austrian and European art history.
Highlights of the ypper Belvedere collection:
- Gustav Klimt’s “The Kiss” (1907-1908) – Perhaps the most famous painting in Austria, this shimmering gold-leaf masterpiece is a celebration of love and sensuality.
- Egon Schiele’s “The Family” – A deeply emotional and introspective work that reflects the artist’s expressionist style.
- Oskar Kokoschka’s portraits – Capturing the raw emotion and psychological depth of his subjects.
- Works by Monet, Renoir, and Van Gogh – A stunning selection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist paintings.
The gilded state rooms, intricate ceiling frescoes, and grand marble halls make walking through the Upper Belvedere an experience in itself. But it’s the artworks that truly steal the show—each gallery invites you to immerse yourself in centuries of artistic genius.
The lower Belvedere: a prince’s private palace
Unlike the Upper Belvedere, which was primarily an art museum and ceremonial hall, the Lower Belvedere served as Prince Eugene’s private residence. Though smaller in scale, it is no less impressive.
Architectural highlights of the lower Belvedere
- The marble hall – A masterpiece of Baroque design, featuring grandiose frescoes depicting Prince Eugene’s military triumphs.
- The gold cabinet – A luxurious chamber adorned with golden ornaments and intricate mirrors.
- The grotesque hall – An artistic marvel with playful ceiling decorations inspired by Italian frescoes.
Today, the Lower Belvedere hosts temporary exhibitions, featuring everything from medieval religious art to avant-garde modern pieces. If you’re lucky, you might catch a special exhibition that brings the palace’s walls to life in an entirely new way.
The Belvedere gardens: a baroque wonderland
Between the two palaces lies one of the most beautiful gardens in Austria. Designed in the formal French style, the gardens feature:
- Perfectly trimmed hedges and geometric flower beds
- Cascading fountains with mythological statues
- Symmetrical terraces offering panoramic views of Vienna
- Hidden pathways leading to intimate garden nooks
Walking through these meticulously maintained gardens, you can almost imagine Empress Maria Theresa strolling among the flowers or Prince Eugene entertaining foreign dignitaries.
For a truly magical experience, visit at sunrise or sunset—when the palace glows in golden hues, and the crowds have thinned, leaving you in serene solitude.
Planning your visit: essential information
Ticket Prices & Opening Hours
- Upper Belvedere: Approx. €19 per adult
- Lower Belvedere: Approx. €16 per adult
- Combined ticket (both palaces & gardens): Approx. €29
- Opening Hours: Generally 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM (varies by season)
Tip: To avoid long queues, book your tickets online in advance!
How to get to the Belvedere Palaces
The Belvedere Palaces are conveniently located near Vienna’s city center and can be easily reached via public transport:
- Tram: Lines D, 18, O, 71 – Stop: Quartier Belvedere
- Train: S-Bahn to Hauptbahnhof (Vienna Central Station)
- Bus: Line 13A – Stop: Mommsengasse
- Walking: A 15-minute walk from Vienna’s city center
Best time to visit:
- Spring & Summer – Enjoy the gardens in full bloom.
- Winter – Experience the romantic Belvedere Christmas Market, with twinkling lights and festive treats.
A must-see in Vienna
Whether you’re an art enthusiast, a history lover, or simply someone who appreciates architectural beauty, the Belvedere Palaces are a must-visit during your time in Vienna. From Klimt’s golden embrace to the echoes of imperial grandeur in the Baroque halls, every corner of the Belvedere complex tells a story of passion, power, and artistic brilliance.
Take your time, soak in the atmosphere, and let the magic of Vienna’s most enchanting palaces transport you through the centuries.