Beyond their golden halls and opulent rooms, Vienna’s royal palaces are surrounded by some of Europe’s most enchanting gardens. Each one reflects a unique blend of imperial grandeur, artistic landscaping, and peaceful charm. Whether you’re a history lover, a photographer, or simply looking for a tranquil escape, these are the top 5 palace gardens in Vienna you shouldn’t miss.
Schönbrunn Palace Gardens
The Schönbrunn Gardens are the crown jewel of Vienna’s green spaces. Spanning over 160 hectares, they were designed in the French Baroque style with geometric flowerbeds, fountains, and mythological statues. Stroll along the Grand Parterre, climb to the Gloriette for panoramic views, or explore the Maze and Palm House for a peaceful retreat. The gardens are free to enter year-round, but some sections like the Privy Garden and Orangery require tickets which can be booked easily on our Schönbrunn ticket page.
Belvedere Palace Gardens
The Belvedere Gardens perfectly connect the Upper and Lower Belvedere Palaces with elegant Baroque symmetry. Designed by Dominique Girard, a student of Versailles’ landscape architect Le Nôtre, these terraced gardens feature ornamental pools, marble statues, and cascading fountains. It’s one of Vienna’s most romantic walks — especially at sunrise or sunset when the golden light reflects off the palace’s façade.
Volksgarten (People’s Garden)
Adjacent to the Hofburg Palace, the Volksgarten offers a lush blend of history and relaxation. Once part of the palace fortifications, it was opened to the public in 1823 and became Vienna’s earliest civic garden. With over 3,000 rose bushes, charming fountains, and neoclassical statues, it’s a favorite spot among locals and visitors alike. Don’t miss the Theseus Temple, a scaled-down replica of a Greek temple surrounded by blooming roses in spring.
Burggarten
Another gem near the Hofburg complex, the Burggarten was created in the early 19th century after the demolition of Vienna’s old city walls and later served as a private garden for Emperor Franz Joseph. Today, it’s an elegant public park featuring a statue of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and a striking Art Nouveau Palm House. Inside, the Butterfly House adds a tropical touch, making it a great year-round escape from the city bustle.
Augarten
Located in Vienna’s Leopoldstadt district, Augarten is one of Vienna’s oldest Baroque parks, redesigned in the early 18th century as a formal garden for the imperial court. Today, it is home to the Augarten Porcelain Manufactory and the Vienna Boys’ Choir’s school and concert facilities. The park’s long, tree-lined avenues and open lawns are perfect for quiet walks or picnics surrounded by history.
Visiting Vienna’s Palace Gardens
Each of these gardens offers a unique experience from royal formality to peaceful greenery. Many are open to the public for free, but certain palace areas or greenhouses may require an entry ticket. You can find all official ticket options on our Vienna Palaces Tickets page to plan your visit with ease.
Exploring these gardens is like walking through centuries of imperial artistry where nature, architecture, and history come together in perfect harmony.