Vienna’s efficient public transport system makes it easy to explore all of the city’s imperial treasures in a single day. Whether you’re traveling by metro (U-Bahn), tram, or bus, you can reach each of the city’s three major palaces Schönbrunn, Hofburg, and Belvedere quickly and comfortably. Here’s a step-by-step guide to getting around Vienna’s royal landmarks like a local.
Getting to Schönbrunn Palace
The Schönbrunn Palace is located in the western part of Vienna and is easily accessible by metro. The palace has its own stop on the green line (U4), making it one of the most convenient attractions to visit.
- Metro: Take line U4 to Schönbrunn station. From there, it’s a 5-minute walk to the main entrance.
- Tram: Lines 10 and 60 also stop near the palace.
- Bus: Bus 10A connects Schönbrunn with other districts.
Arrive early to enjoy the gardens before crowds gather, and consider booking your entry in advance through our Schönbrunn Palace ticket page.
Reaching Hofburg Palace in the City Center
The Hofburg Palace sits right in the heart of Vienna’s old town (Innere Stadt), surrounded by major landmarks like the State Opera and St. Stephen’s Cathedral. Thanks to Vienna’s compact layout, it’s easily reachable by metro or tram.
- Metro: Take lines U1, U2, or U3 to Stephansplatz or Volkstheater. Both are a short walk to the palace.
- Tram: Lines 1, 2, D, and 71 circle the city center and stop near the Burgtheater and Burgring.
- Bus: Buses 1A and 2A serve central stops right next to the palace complex.
Once there, you can visit the Imperial Apartments, Sisi Museum, and Imperial Treasury with a ticket from our Hofburg Palace page.
Traveling to Belvedere Palace
The Belvedere Palace lies southeast of the city center and is well-connected by both tram and metro. It consists of two palaces Upper and Lower Belvedere connected by one of Vienna’s most beautiful Baroque gardens.
- Tram: Take tram D to Schloss Belvedere or Quartier Belvedere. The D-line offers scenic views of the Ringstrasse before reaching the palace.
- Metro: Take line U1 to Hauptbahnhof (Vienna Central Station) and walk about 10 minutes to the palace gates.
- Train: Regional trains (ÖBB) also stop at Quartier Belvedere, a short stroll from the Upper Belvedere.
Don’t forget to reserve entry to see Klimt’s The Kiss via our Belvedere Palace ticket page.
Suggested Route for One-Day Visitors
If you’re planning to visit all three palaces in a single day, this route is the most efficient:
- Morning: Start with Schönbrunn Palace (U4 – Schönbrunn).
- Midday: Travel to Hofburg Palace (U4 to Karlsplatz → short walk or tram 2 to Burgring).
- Afternoon: Take tram D or U1 from Karlsplatz to Belvedere Palace.
This loop covers Vienna’s main royal sites without unnecessary backtracking, ideal for a one-day itinerary.
Tickets and Travel Tips
- Purchase a 24-hour Vienna public transport ticket (€8.60) for unlimited metro, tram, and bus travel.
- Validate your ticket once before your first ride, no need to revalidate afterward.
- Most palace entrances are clearly signposted from nearby stops.
- Use Google Maps or the Wiener Linien app for real-time metro and tram schedules.
Vienna’s metro and tram system isn’t just convenient, it’s part of the experience. With a little planning, you can travel between Schönbrunn, Hofburg, and Belvedere effortlessly, turning your royal adventure into a smooth and scenic journey through Austria’s capital.