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Laxenburg Castle Park: A Habsburg Jewel

Discover imperial history and natural beauty in Laxenburg Castle Park, a sprawling Habsburg estate just south of Vienna.

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Laxenburg Castle Park, located just south of Vienna, is a sprawling historic landscape garden with roots stretching back to the 13th century. Once a favored retreat of the Habsburg emperors and empresses, including Empress Elisabeth (Sisi) and Emperor Franz Joseph, the park offers a blend of natural beauty, architectural follies, and historical significance.

A brief summary to Laxenburg Castle Park

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes to explore the park's extensive network of pathways.
  • Visit the Franzensburg Castle and take a guided tour to learn about its history and see the Austrian treasury.
  • Enjoy a boat ride on the castle lake for a relaxing way to experience the park's ambiance.
  • Check the park's event calendar for special events, such as guided park tours and matinee performances.
  • Pack a picnic to enjoy in one of the park's picturesque garden spaces.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Vienna Hauptbahnhof (main train station), take bus line 200 to Laxenburg Franz-Josephs Platz. The journey takes approximately 30 minutes. From Laxenburg Franz-Josephs-Platz, it's a short 3-minute walk to the main park entrance at Tor Schlossplatz (P1). A single bus fare within Vienna costs around €2.40 [Bus cost]. Alternatively, from Mödling Bahnhof (train station), take bus line 215 to Laxenburg Franz-Josephs Platz. This journey takes approximately 20 minutes. From there, it is a 3-minute walk to the Schlosspark entrance.

  • Driving

    Laxenburg Castle Park is located approximately 25 km south of Vienna. Take the A2 (E59) motorway towards Graz and exit at Wiener Neudorf. Follow the signs to Laxenburg. There are approximately 1,000 free parking spaces available at the main park entrance (P1), the equestrian center entrance (P2, open on weekends and holidays), and the recreation center entrance (P3). Parking is permitted for a maximum of 24 hours.

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Discover more about Laxenburg Castle Park

Laxenburg Castle Park is one of Europe's most significant historical landscape gardens, inviting visitors to step back in time and wander through its expansive grounds. The park's history dates back to the 13th century, with the Habsburgs acquiring the estate in 1333. Over the centuries, it evolved from a hunting lodge to a sprawling parkland, reaching its present form in the 18th and 19th centuries. Empress Maria Theresa and her grandson, Emperor Franz, were instrumental in expanding the park to its current 280 hectares. They transformed the landscape into a picturesque English garden, complete with artificial ponds, charming follies, and the iconic Franzensburg Castle. Emperor Franz II further enriched the park with romantic elements of historicism, solidifying its unique character. The Franzensburg, often called "Austria's little treasure house," is a must-see attraction within the park. Built between 1799 and 1835 on an artificial island, this medieval-style castle houses a museum showcasing the splendor and history of the Habsburg dynasty. Visitors can explore its historic rooms, climb the High Tower for panoramic views, and learn about the castle's fascinating past. Laxenburg Castle Park offers a diverse range of activities for all ages. Stroll along the 10 kilometers of pathways, rent a boat on the 25-hectare castle lake, or take a ride on the Laxenburg Express panorama train. Children will enjoy the large playground, while history buffs can explore the park's numerous monuments, temples, and mystical grottoes. The park also holds a special place in Habsburg history. Emperor Franz Joseph and Empress Elisabeth (Sisi) spent their honeymoon here, and two of their children, Gisela and Crown Prince Rudolf, were born in Laxenburg. The Old Castle (Altes Schloss) served as a springtime residence for members of the Habsburg family.

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