Short info:
Where is it located? Address: Rennweg 14, 1030 Vienna (right next to the Belvedere Garden between the Upper Belvedere and Lower Belvedere)
What is there to see here? approx. 11,500 plant species from 6 continents.
How much does entry cost? Admission is free.
When is open? You can find all opening hours here.
The garden in general
The Botanical Garden is a real oasis of calm in the middle of Vienna and was founded in 1754 by Maria Theresa. The Botanical Garden is a facility of the Faculty of Life Sciences at the University of Vienna, is around 8 hectares in size, with a 1500 m² greenhouse area and is home to around 11,500 species.
It contains a unique collection of plants and houses endangered species, exotic and native flora. Many of them are researched by scientists and used for the training of students.
Most plants are described on small signs. The park is ideal for relaxing, learning and admiring. With the exception of the period between December 24th and January 6th and in bad weather conditions, the park is open daily and freely accessible.
There are 4 entrances, the main entrance at Mechelgasse 2, as well as the Alpengarten, Reitertor and Jacquintor entrances. Dogs and bicycles are not permitted in the botanical garden, and jogging is also not permitted.
What is there to see in detail?
The groups of trees and meadows of the garden are a valuable habitat for wild animals. An important part of the garden is the Alpinum, which is located directly at the main entrance to the garden. Over 800 species are cultivated there on around 1,000 m².
In the arboretum there are, in part, very old trees. There are a total of 850 trees in the garden, with around 600 different species. The bamboo grove is also very impressive.
The medicinal, useful and poisonous plants group is the oldest thematic group, but has been recreated three times over the course of time. It is currently located along Jacquingasse to the east of the garden. A total of 150 species are on display in the succulent group directly at the main entrance. There are also several ponds in the botanical garden.
There are 400 species of orchids (2,500 plants) out of around 1,200 known. The collection is now one of the most important in the world. Unfortunately, most of it is not open to the public. More special collections of pineapple plants, coffee plants, cacti and more can be found here. Of the greenhouses, only the tropical house in the center of the greenhouse complex is open to the public.
Tip: A rarity exchange takes place in the garden every year on the 3rd weekend in April. Plants that are usually not available in garden shops can be bought at the plant exchange.
Conclusion: a perfect place to rest after looking at the Lower and Upper Belvedere.