Prince Eugene of Savoy, one of the most successful military commanders of his era, built Belvedere as his summer residence in the early 1700s. The complex is split into the Upper Belvedere (the grander of the two, and now the main gallery) and the Lower Belvedere (used for temporary exhibitions), connected by a formal garden that steps down the hill in a series of terraces, ponds and sphinxes.
The Klimt collection
The Upper Belvedere holds the world's largest collection of Gustav Klimt paintings, including The Kiss — arguably Austria's most famous artwork — along with Judith and several of his landscape paintings. The same rooms display work by Egon Schiele, Oskar Kokoschka and other key figures of Vienna's early-20th-century art scene, alongside a strong collection of Austrian baroque and 19th-century painting.
Upper vs Lower Belvedere: which to visit
If you only have time for one, make it the Upper Belvedere — that's where the Klimt collection lives. The Lower Belvedere hosts rotating temporary exhibitions and is worth adding on if a current show interests you. A combined ticket covering both is usually the better value if you're spending more than an hour or two on-site.
The gardens
Even without a ticket, the gardens between the two palaces are open to the public and free to walk through. The view from the Upper Belvedere terrace back down across the parterre, with the city skyline and — on a clear day — the hills beyond, is one of the best free views in Vienna.
Local tip
The Klimt rooms get busy by late morning, especially with tour groups. Arrive at opening time if seeing The Kiss without a crowd in front of it matters to you.
Nearby
Belvedere is a short tram or walk from Vienna's main railway station, Hauptbahnhof, which makes it an easy stop to combine with a look at the surrounding Belvedere Quarter's modern architecture, or to fold into a longer day covering the Ringstrasse museums.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I see The Kiss by Klimt in Vienna?
The Kiss hangs in the Upper Belvedere, in the palace's dedicated Klimt rooms.
Do I need to book Belvedere tickets in advance?
It's not always essential, but booking a timed slot online is recommended in peak season (May–September) to avoid the ticket-office queue.
Are the Belvedere gardens free?
Yes, the gardens connecting the Upper and Lower Belvedere are open to the public at no charge.