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Lainzer Tor: Gateway to Vienna's Wildlife Oasis

Enter Vienna's Lainzer Tiergarten through the Lainzer Tor and discover a vast wildlife preserve with hiking, history, and natural beauty.

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The Lainzer Tor serves as the main entrance to the Lainzer Tiergarten, a sprawling wildlife preserve on Vienna's western edge. This historic gate welcomes visitors to explore a vast natural landscape, offering hiking trails, wildlife sightings, and a connection to Austria's imperial past.

A brief summary to Lainz Gate

Local tips

  • Wear sturdy shoes, as the trails can be uneven, especially after rain.
  • Bring binoculars for optimal wildlife viewing, especially during dawn and dusk.
  • Check the Lainzer Tiergarten's official website for seasonal opening hours.
  • Pack a picnic to enjoy in one of the designated picnic areas.
  • Visit the Hermesvilla museum to learn about the history of the Lainzer Tiergarten and the imperial family.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Hietzing station (U4 subway line), take the 56B bus directly to the Lainzer Tor. The bus ride takes approximately 15-20 minutes, and the bus stop is right in front of the Lainzer Tor entrance. A single Vienna transport ticket costs €2.40 and is valid for the entire journey.

  • Walking

    From the Speising tram stop (lines 60 and 62), it's approximately a 15-20 minute walk along Hermesstraße to the Lainzer Tor entrance. The walk is mostly flat and straightforward, following the road directly to the main gate. This is a pleasant option for those who enjoy a leisurely stroll and want to take in the surrounding scenery.

  • Driving

    If driving, navigate to Hermesstraße 78, 1130 Vienna. Limited parking is available near the Lainzer Tor entrance. Parking fees vary, but expect to pay around €2-3 per hour. Be aware that parking spaces can fill up quickly, especially on weekends and holidays, so arriving early is recommended. Consider using public transport as a more convenient alternative.

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Discover more about Lainz Gate

The Lainzer Tor is the primary access point to the Lainzer Tiergarten, a 6,054-acre (24.50 km²) wildlife preserve that was once the private hunting grounds of the Habsburg emperors. Established in 1561 by Emperor Ferdinand I, the Tiergarten provided a secluded space for the royal family to hunt. In 1919, it was opened to the public, transforming into a cherished natural escape for the Viennese people. Today, the Lainzer Tor invites visitors to explore a unique landscape where woodlands, meadows, and hills create a haven for diverse flora and fauna. The Tiergarten is home to wild boars, red deer, fallow deer, roe deer, and mouflons, offering lucky visitors glimpses of these animals in their natural habitat. From the Lainzer Tor, a network of well-maintained hiking trails beckons exploration. These trails cater to various fitness levels, winding through diverse landscapes and offering stunning views of the Vienna Woods and the city skyline. A leisurely 2.2 km walk from the Lainzer Tor leads to the Hermesvilla, a palace built for Empress Elisabeth (Sisi) by Emperor Franz Joseph I. Today, the Hermesvilla houses a museum showcasing imperial life. The Lainzer Tor also provides access to a visitor center with information about the park's history, flora, and fauna. An interactive terrain model helps visitors navigate the preserve, and guided tours are available. Near the gate, a large playground and the Hohenauer pond offer additional attractions for families.

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