Vienna
Vienna · Scientific Plant Collections

Botanical Garden of the University of Vienna

A historic scientific garden in Vienna, home to diverse living plant collections.

NatureScience

Explore the University of Vienna's Botanical Garden, home to a unique collection of endangered, exotic, and native plant species. This living laboratory supports scientific research and student education, while also serving as a valuable green space for public relaxation and wonder.

A scientific and recreational botanical garden housing diverse plant collections, including endangered and exotic species, and serving as a habitat for wildlife.

Botanical Garden of the University of Vienna
Botanical Garden of the University of Vienna: Research and Recreation

The Botanical Garden of the University of Vienna serves as a core facility for the Faculty of Life Sciences, connected to the Department of Botany and Biodiversity Research. It curates a unique plant collection, featuring endangered species, exotic flora, and local vegetation. These collections are vital for scientific research and student education. Beyond its academic role, the garden offers visitors a serene space for recreation and discovery amidst nature in Vienna, while also providing a habitat for wildlife.

A large glass and metal greenhouse with palm trees and other tropical plants in front, under a clear blue sky.
Botanical Garden of the University of Vienna opening hours in Vienna

Check today’s opening status, weekly schedule, and special date changes for Botanical Garden of the University of Vienna. Use these opening hours to plan your arrival and avoid closed times in Vienna.

Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
Sunday
10:00-18:00
10:00-18:00
10:00-18:00
10:00-18:00
10:00-18:00
10:00-18:00
10:00-18:00
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Visitor amenities and accessibility

The Botanical Garden of the University of Vienna offers several facilities to support visitor comfort, including accessible toilet facilities and dedicated parking options nearby. While the garden maintains a step-free main entrance, access to other entry points and certain paths is limited by terrain and incline. Public transport connections are also available to help visitors plan their journey to the site.

Accessible parking

Available

Accessible toilet

Available

Step-free entrance

Limited

Wheelchair accessible paths

Limited
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Botanical Garden of the University of Vienna Location

The Botanical Garden of the University of Vienna is situated at Mechelgasse 2 in Vienna. This scientific and recreational garden provides a diverse plant collection and a habitat for wildlife, offering visitors a serene space for discovery and relaxation within the city. Its central location makes it easily accessible for those exploring Vienna's natural and academic treasures.

© OpenStreetMap contributors

Mechelgasse 2

1030 Vienna

Vienna, AT

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Visiting the Botanical Garden of the University of Vienna

The Botanical Garden of the University of Vienna in Vienna welcomes visitors year-round with free admission to its diverse plant collections. You can explore the grounds at your own pace without the need for reservations. For guidance during your visit, a printed folder titled "The Botanical Garden" is available at the porter's lodge near the main entrance.

Visiting the Botanical Garden of the University of Vienna
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Visitor Experience at the Botanical Garden of the University of Vienna

The Botanical Garden of the University of Vienna operates as a significant scientific core facility, closely integrated with the Faculty of Life Sciences and the Department of Botany and Biodiversity Research. It meticulously curates a unique and extensive living collection, featuring endangered species, exotic flora, and representative local vegetation, which are vital for academic research and student education. Visitors can explore diverse plant habitats and collections within this urban oasis, observing species critical for scientific study and encountering local wildlife thriving in its meadows and tree groups. The garden's layout provides dedicated areas for both active learning and quiet contemplation, offering a serene natural retreat in Vienna.

Autumn scene in a botanical garden with fallen yellow leaves covering the ground and trees with orange and yellow foliage
Top exhibition picks at Botanical Garden of the University of Vienna
Curated museum program highlights and what to see now in Vienna
Discover high-interest exhibitions at Botanical Garden of the University of Vienna, selected to help you prioritize your route, compare show themes, and plan a more rewarding museum visit in Vienna.
Bamboo Footbridge: Discover the Unique Student-Designed Installation at Vienna's Botanical Garden
Permanent exhibition

Bamboo Footbridge: Discover the Unique Student-Designed Installation at Vienna's Botanical Garden

Immersive nature walk offering close-up views of a historic bamboo grove.

Walk above a rare bamboo grove on this unique footbridge designed by university students. It provides an intimate exploration of the Phyllostachys viridiglaucescens while ensuring the protection of its extensive root network. This innovative landscape feature blends seamlessly with nature.

Bamboo Footbridge
Discover Vienna's #VielfaltistLeben Selfie Wall: An Interactive Plant Diversity Exhibition

Discover Vienna's #VielfaltistLeben Selfie Wall: An Interactive Plant Diversity Exhibition

Engaging art highlights native flora and biodiversity conservation in Vienna.

Explore the #VielfaltistLeben Selfie Wall, an exhibition by Monika Ernst, at the Botanical Garden of the University of Vienna. See captivating illustrations of native plant characters and understand their critical role in our ecosystem. This exhibit promotes appreciation for endangered species and conservation.

Selfie Wall Exhibition
Plant Sounds Exhibition: Acoustic Exploration at Vienna's Botanical Garden

Plant Sounds Exhibition: Acoustic Exploration at Vienna's Botanical Garden

Experience plant life processes transformed into unique sound art.

Dive into the world of 'Plant Sounds' with installations that interpret the unseen biology of flora. Collaborating artists and biologists created imaginative auditory experiences for garden visitors, turning scientific concepts into captivating art forms.

Plant Sounds Exhibition
PalArt for PalDat: Pollen-Inspired Art Exhibition at Botanical Garden Vienna

PalArt for PalDat: Pollen-Inspired Art Exhibition at Botanical Garden Vienna

Art by scientists supporting the PalDat pollen research database.

Discover "PalArt for PalDat," an exhibition showcasing artworks by scientists from the University of Vienna. These unique creations, inspired by pollen research, directly support the PalDat database with all sales proceeds.

PalArt Exhibition
Botanical Illustration: Exploring Plant Science and Art at Vienna's University Garden

Botanical Illustration: Exploring Plant Science and Art at Vienna's University Garden

A historical practice showcasing detailed plant depictions for scientific insight.

Delve into the fascinating world of botanical illustration, a centuries-old tradition at the Botanical Garden of the University of Vienna. Discover how artists meticulously capture the essence of plants, blending scientific accuracy with aesthetic quality to create invaluable documentation.

Botanical Illustration
Discover Erdbank: Armin Muhamedagić's Ecological Clay Art Installation in Vienna

Discover Erdbank: Armin Muhamedagić's Ecological Clay Art Installation in Vienna

A unique seating sculpture celebrating earth construction and natural decomposition.

Delve into 'Erdbank,' a significant work by Armin Muhamedagić. This substantial clay installation embodies both a place of rest and a profound ecological message. Learn how it connects ancient building methods with contemporary environmental awareness, designed to naturally integrate back into the landscape.

Erdbank Installation
Watercolor illustration of an art installation in a glasshouse, featuring framed photographs on a wooden table surrounded by lush plants, representing the exhibition 'Die Entfernung' by Hiroshi Takizawa.
From Mar 16, 2025

Die Entfernung: Photographic Installation by Hiroshi Takizawa in Vienna

Explore light, shadow, and botanical art at the glasshouse exhibition.

Discover Hiroshi Takizawa's 'Die Entfernung,' an installation of photographic image objects within the Botanical Garden's glasshouse. Witness how light, shadow, and plant life interact in this site-specific artwork, inviting contemplation.

Die Entfernung Exhibition
A watercolor illustration of a chamber music ensemble performing in a lush garden with purple flowers and greenery, representing the Gartenklänge event series.
From May 25, 2024

Gartenklänge: Unique Guided Garden Tours with Chamber Music in Vienna

Classical music performances meet botanical discovery in an outdoor setting.

Immerse yourself in the 'Gartenklänge' series at the Botanical Garden. This event combines enchanting chamber music concerts with insightful guided tours, creating a harmonious blend of nature, history, and art. Discover botanical collections alongside beautiful melodies.

Gartenklänge Concerts
Open full Botanical Garden of the University of Vienna exhibitions page

History of the Botanical Garden of the University of Vienna

The Botanical Garden of the University of Vienna was founded in 1754 by Empress Maria Theresa as the *Hortus Botanicus Vindobonensis*, with early guidance from figures like Nikolaus von Jacquin. Throughout its history, the garden has seen significant development, including the opening of the Institute of Botany building in 1905 and the construction of greenhouses between 1890 and 1893. Following severe damage during the Second World War, extensive repair and renovation work was undertaken, with the greenhouses rebuilt between 1970 and 1995. The garden continues its legacy of botanical significance, notably receiving a Wollemia plant in 2004 for its 250th anniversary, marking the first time this species was displayed on the European mainland.

  • Founded as Hortus Botanicus Vindobonensis

    1754Founding

    The Botanical Garden of the University of Vienna was founded in 1754 by Empress Maria Theresa as the Hortus Botanicus Vindobonensis, with Nikolaus von Jacquin serving as one of its initial directors.

  • Institute of Botany building opened

    1905Construction

    The Institute of Botany building, which is part of the Botanical Garden complex, was opened in 1905.

  • Damage and major repair work after WWII

    Renovation

    Following the end of the Second World War, the institute, all greenhouses, and the entire garden area sustained severe damage from bombing, necessitating extensive repair and renovation efforts.

  • Greenhouse renovation and rebuilding

    1970-1995Renovation

    The greenhouses, originally constructed between 1890 and 1893, were damaged during World War II and subsequently underwent renovation or rebuilding between 1970 and 1995.

  • Received Wollemia as anniversary gift

    2004Collection

    In 2004, to commemorate its 250th anniversary, the garden received a Wollemia plant as a gift from Australia, marking the first time this species was displayed on the European mainland.

  • Discovery of Wollemia nobilis

    1994Cultural significance

    The discovery of Wollemia nobilis in Australia in 1994, a species previously known only from fossils, is a significant botanical event that has a connection to the garden through its anniversary gift.

  • Titanwort bloom event with extended hours

    2022Milestone

    On May 29, 2022, the titanwort plant reached full bloom, an event that generated public interest and led to extended opening hours for the following two days.

Unearthing Your FAQs for the Botanical Garden

Considering a visit to the Botanical Garden of the University of Vienna? You're probably curious about everything from whether it's open year-round (it is!) to if there's an entry fee (spoiler: it's delightfully free!). Dig into our complete FAQ to discover more.

What is the general phone number for the Botanical Garden of the University of Vienna?

You can contact the Botanical Garden of the University of Vienna by phone at +43 (0)1 4277-541 00.

Where can I find contact details for specific departments or staff at the Botanical Garden of the University of Vienna?

For specific contact persons and staff members, the Botanical Garden of the University of Vienna provides a directory on its official website.

How can I email the Botanical Garden of the University of Vienna?

The general email address for the Botanical Garden of the University of Vienna is [email protected]. You can use this for inquiries.

Does the Botanical Garden of the University of Vienna have a fax number for communication?

Yes, the Botanical Garden of the University of Vienna can also be reached via fax at +43 (0)1 4277-9541.

See museum FAQ answers
Planning Your Visit to the Botanical Garden

The Botanical Garden of the University of Vienna offers free admission and is open all year round for visitors to explore its extensive plant collections. To help navigate the grounds, a folder titled "The Botanical Garden" is available at the porter's lodge near the main entrance. For accessibility, the main entrance is step-free, and an accessible toilet is provided within the garden. While some paths are wheelchair accessible, they are covered with gravel, which visitors should consider. Accessible parking is also available in public parking areas nearby.

Visitor Suitability at the Botanical Garden

The Botanical Garden of the University of Vienna in Vienna is a welcoming destination for individuals, couples, families, and students with an interest in nature and scientific exploration. It offers a serene environment for both educational discovery and quiet recreation. While the main entrance is step-free and an accessible toilet is available, visitors with mobility considerations should note that some garden paths are covered with gravel and certain entrances have inclines or stairs. Admission to the garden is free, making it an accessible option for exploring its diverse botanical collections.

Photos of the Botanical Garden of the University of Vienna

Explore the visual story of the Botanical Garden of the University of Vienna in Vienna, showcasing its diverse plant collections. Visitors can expect to see a rich array of flora from various habitats, reflecting its scientific mission and tranquil outdoor environment. These images provide a glimpse into the garden's role in research, education, and offering a serene space for discovery.

red stylized letters VI and AF on a black background
Two Judas trees with bright pink blossoms in a green garden with informational signs
People walking on a path in a botanical garden with greenhouses and lush plants
Autumn scene in a botanical garden with fallen yellow leaves covering the ground and trees with orange and yellow foliage
A tree with yellow leaves surrounded by a thick layer of fallen leaves in a park
Pathway surrounded by dense green plants and bamboo stalks inside a greenhouse
A tall tree in a wooden barrel surrounded by greenery and a glass greenhouse under a blue sky
pathway through a greenhouse with tall bamboo and tropical plants
A large glass and metal greenhouse with palm trees and other tropical plants in front, under a clear blue sky.
Large pool with giant water lilies inside a glass greenhouse
See museum photos gallery
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