When the gray February weather is finally over and the first warm rays of sunshine appear, we all start looking for the perfect spot in nature. Pack your picnic blanket, because in this palace park, a vast area awaits you that’s absolutely ideal for a day trip around Vienna. Right in the middle, the palace sits majestically on an artificial island, immediately drawing everyone’s attention.
The “fairytale castle” that once housed Sisi
At first glance, the building looks like a set from an old knight movie. Sisi greatly appreciated the tranquility of this estate and spent a relaxing honeymoon here after her wedding to Franz. Back then, she rode for hours through the vast forests that still characterize the gigantic park today. Today, the castle is also affectionately called the “fairytale castle.”
Next to the castle, Laxenburg Palace Park resembles a green labyrinth of old trees and wide meadows. The park is one of the most important and largest landscape gardens in Austria. As you stroll through it, you’ll discover hidden grottoes, small temples, and a large pond that offers a real refreshment, especially on hot days. So if you’re looking for beautiful lakes in the area, you’ve come to the right place.
The drive from Vienna is quick
You definitely don’t need your own car for this short trip out of the city . From the main train station, the No. 200 bus will take you to your destination in just under half an hour. The ticket costs around five euros. If you do decide to drive, you’ll find plenty of parking spaces on the edge of the grounds.
To get to Franzenburg Castle, you first take a leisurely stroll through nature and then board a rustic cable ferry. For about one euro, the ferryman pulls you across the water by hand, right up to the imposing entrance. It’s a truly awesome experience before you step into the historic rooms.
When is the best time to visit?
Just in time for the start of the season around Easter, the grounds open their gates daily at eight in the morning. If you want to take a look inside the magnificent halls, you’ll need to join a guided tour. These tours start daily at eleven, two, and three o’clock. On weekends, there are additional tours so you can take a closer look at the impressive wooden ceilings and furniture.
After the extensive tour, your stomach is usually growling. Fortunately, in the immediate vicinity of the complex, you’ll find excellent eateries and restaurants to round off the day comfortably with a good meal.
Our tip for the best view of the water
Be sure to rent a pedal boat or rowboat from the rental shop right by the castle pond. From the middle of the water, you’ll have the very best view of Franzensburg and can take fantastic photos. Especially when the main paths are packed on sunny days, you’ll have absolute peace on the water and an undisturbed spot all to yourself.
By the way, if you’re a fan of Empress Sisi and Franz, or simply want to visit more places from their past, you can find tickets here for a Sisi Tour in Vienna and here for a guided tour + skip-the-line access to the Sisi Museum, Hofburg, and the Vienna Gardens.
