Academy of Fine Arts Vienna: Bosch Triptych & Gallery Tips

The Academy of Fine Arts on Vienna's Schillerplatz is one of the oldest and most renowned art schools in Europe. Founded in 1692, the institution looks back on a long and eventful history. In the 19th century it moved into the magnificent neoclassical building that is still its headquarters today. Many famous artists trained here, among them Gustav Klimt, Egon Schiele and Otto Wagner, the last of whom had a lasting influence on Vienna's modern architectural style.

A special highlight of the Academy is its Picture Gallery, which is open to the public. Among its treasures is Hieronymus Bosch's world-famous "Last Judgment" triptych, along with works by Rubens, van Dyck and Rembrandt. The gallery is on the top floor with a view of Karlsplatz and offers an unusual interplay of classical architecture and modern gallery presentation. Visitors get not only an artistic but also an architectural experience.

A real insider tip is to drop in on the regularly changing student exhibitions shown in the so-called xhibit. Here you can discover the talents of tomorrow, often for free and with exciting concepts that combine classical art with contemporary media. If you are interested in architecture, don't miss the impressive staircase and the design of the facade. The Academy is right next to the Secession and easy to reach by U-Bahn (subway), a cultural must for anyone who wants to experience art in all its diversity.

Highlights

- Picture Gallery with the Bosch triptych
- Contemporary exhibitions at the xhibit
- Neoclassical building right on Schillerplatz

accessible
Wi-Fi available
central location
kid-friendly
Photography allowed (no flash)

Address: Schillerplatz 3, 1010 Vienna
Get directions

A highlight is the Picture Gallery with Hieronymus Bosch's famous triptych and important works by Rubens and Rembrandt. The current student exhibitions at the xhibit are also worth a look.

Admission to the Picture Gallery is charged (with reduced rates for students and seniors), while many of the student exhibitions can usually be visited for free.

The Academy is centrally located on Schillerplatz near the Karlsplatz U-Bahn station (U1, U2, U4) and is also easy to reach on several tram lines.

The exhibitions at the xhibit are well worth a visit: they show current work by students and offer fascinating insights into the art movements of tomorrow.

Allow about 1–2 hours to see the exhibition and the gallery. Photography is permitted in most areas, but without flash; please follow the signs.

No additional photos available.