10 tips to note when visiting the Belvedere Palace

The Belvedere Palace in Vienna is one of the most renowned art museums in the world. The three zones of the museum- the Lower Belvedere, the Upper Belvedere, and the Belvedere 21, collectively house over 800 years of art history. The Lower Belvedere Palace features landmark pieces of Viennese Modernism and temporary exhibitions depending on when you visit. In addition to its art, the Belvedere is famous for its Baroque architecture, making it a must-visit in Vienna. Read on to learn more about how to make the most of your trip to the Belvedere.

Plan your visit to the Belvedere Palace

10 tips to note when visiting the Belvedere Palace

Take your time to explore

Make sure you have around 5 hours handy for a trip to the Belvedere, as each of the three zones housing the permanent collections would take you an hour each to explore. The temporary exhibitions, gardens and palace stables can be covered in the remaining time.

Get an audio tour

Download the Smartify app from the App Store free of cost. With the app, you can scan the image of any of the paintings and get acquainted with its history, without the need for a tour guide. The app is available in multiple languages. You could also scan existing pictures from the comfort of your home after your trip to revisit the history if required.

Snack at Cafe Menagerie

Head to this small cafe located within the Upper Belvedere to grab a bite and refuel between your museum browsing. Indulge in the variety of cakes available at the shop, and try to squeeze in a tea/ coffee break as well. Along with the great food, you will also be able to enjoy unmatched views of the Palace.

Buy a souvenir at the gift shops

The Belvedere has a well-stocked gift shop where you can pick up items such as jewelry, clothes, books, art collections, stationary, home decor and more. The items are also available for online purchase on the Belvedere website.

Don’t miss the Christmas Market

If you happen to be around during the end-of-year holiday season, don’t forget to catch the Christmas markets. Enjoy traditional handicrafts, apparel, and Christmas food, and revel in the festive spirit, with the carols in the background.

Visit the Orangery and Palace Gardens

Part of the Lower Belvedere exhibition area, the Orangery was built in the 18th century and is the venue for temporary exhibitions. The Palace Gardens are immaculate and connect the Lower and Upper Belvedere. It is also characterized by its fountains, sculptures and art.

Book tickets in advance

Being one of the most visited museums in Austria, the Belvedere tends to get crowded in the holiday season, as well as during weekends and vacations. It is always a good idea to book your tickets online in advance.

Explore the exhibitions

The permanent collection is housed at the Upper Belvedere, including the famous Kiss by Gustav Klimt and the temporary exhibitions are generally located in the Lower Belvedere which you can visit when you’re around.

More about Belvedere Palace art collection

Check the weather forecast

Austria is a great place to visit all year round, barring January and February due to the biting cold. However, if you plan on visiting between December and February, you can catch the famous Christmas markets. If your trip is planned between June to August, you can enjoy the summer sun and cafe culture as well.

Belvedere Palace opening hours

Avail public transport

The Belvedere is extremely well-connected in terms of public transport, especially by the tram. Even the subway and bus stops are within a ten-minute walking distance from the entrance. Avoid using personal vehicles as the museum does not have on-site parking.

Getting to the Belvedere Palace

Frequently asked questions about Belvedere Palace tips and hacks

The Palace is open year-round, and gets crowded during the holiday season. Try visiting early in the day, or post 3 pm to avoid the crowds.

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