Augarten is a public park in Vienna’s second district, Leopoldstadt, with a French Baroque layout, broad lawns and long, shaded tree avenues. Its garden history reaches back to the 17th century, and it has been open to the public since 1775. Walk among the flowerbeds, take a picnic break or see the two massive World War II flak towers, which stand in stark contrast to the orderly gardens. The park is also home to Palais Augarten, the Vienna Boys’ Choir and the Augarten porcelain museum and factory.
A Baroque garden open to the public
Augarten’s history as a designed garden began in the early 17th century, when the area was used as a hunting ground and lodge. Formal gardens were laid out in 1705 by designer Jean Trehet. The pleasure palace was rebuilt after Ottoman troops destroyed it.
The park was opened to the public in 1775 by Emperor Joseph II. Its French Baroque plan is visible in the ordered paths, flowerbeds and long avenues. Chestnut, elm, linden, ash and maple trees provide shade along the routes. The gardens cover 52.2 hectares, so a walk can take you well beyond the central palace grounds.
The towers and the park’s wartime history
Two large flak towers rise above the garden paths and lawns. Built during World War II, they are stark concrete structures set against the park’s formal greenery. Their scale is apparent from outside, and they remain among the most conspicuous landmarks in Augarten.
The towers are described as inaccessible to visitors, so plan to view them from the park rather than expecting to go inside. Benches nearby provide places to pause and take in their size.
Palais Augarten and porcelain
Palais Augarten is associated with the Vienna Boys’ Choir, which is based there. The park also contains the Augarten porcelain factory, museum and shop. The manufactory has a long history and produces porcelain, including figurines and tableware with designs connected to Vienna and Austria.
The porcelain museum adds an indoor stop to a visit focused on gardens and walking. If you want to explore the factory or museum, check their current visitor information before setting out; the park’s hours do not establish when those facilities are open.
Perguntas frequentes
Where is Augarten in Vienna?
Augarten is in Leopoldstadt, Vienna’s second district. Its address is 1020 Wien, Austria.
How long should you spend at Augarten?
Allow about 1 to 2 hours for a walk and time to see the gardens and flak towers. The park’s 52.2 hectares make it easy to spend longer.
When is a good time to visit Augarten?
Summer is a good time to enjoy the flowerbeds, shade and open lawns, or to picnic in the park.
Can you go inside the flak towers?
One account notes that visitors cannot go inside. You can see the towers from the park.
