Austrian National Library, Vienna - Image 1
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Austrian National Library

4.5
·4k reviews·Wien, Austria

Step into a fairy tale at the Austrian National Library's State Hall, a Baroque masterpiece with towering bookshelves and breathtaking frescoes.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more serene atmosphere

CrowdLow
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Austrian National Library, Vienna - Image 1

Austrian National Library

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more serene atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Step into a fairy tale at the Austrian National Library's State Hall, a Baroque masterpiece with towering bookshelves and breathtaking frescoes.

4.5
(4k reviews)

"This library was more than a simple library, the arts, sculptures made me in awe of how talented humans were hundred years ago."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎟️ Book tickets online

Save time and guarantee entry by purchasing your tickets in advance, especially during peak season.

🚶‍♀️ Allow ample time

Don't rush! Soak in the atmosphere and explore the museums. 1-2 hours is recommended.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The State Hall (Prunksaal)

The State Hall (Prunksaal)

Hofburg Palace

A jaw-dropping Baroque masterpiece with towering bookshelves, marble statues, and a stunning frescoed ceiling.

Baroque Architecture

Baroque Architecture

State Hall

Admire the intricate details, from the ornate wooden shelves to the grand marble statues and gilded accents.

Globe Museum

Globe Museum

Austrian National Library

Explore a remarkable collection of historical globes, offering a unique perspective on cartography and exploration.

Papyrus Museum

Papyrus Museum

Austrian National Library

Discover ancient Egyptian papyri and learn about the history of writing and ancient cultures.

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Planning Your Visit

Beat the Crowds for a Magical Experience

The Austrian National Library's State Hall is a breathtaking sight, but it can get crowded. Consider visiting early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid peak tourist times. Booking tickets online in advance can save you time.

More Than Just Books

While the State Hall is the main draw, the Austrian National Library complex also houses fascinating museums like the Papyrus Museum and the Globe Museum. Allocate extra time if you're interested in these unique collections.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more serene atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Tour groups thin out
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

This library is a must-see if you‘re in Vienna 👇🏻 The State Hall of the Austrian National Library in Vienna is straight out of Beauty and the Beast. Picture this: 80 meters of towering wooden bookshelves filled with ancient books, marble statues that watch over you, and a breathtaking ceiling covered in intricate Baroque frescoes. The centerpiece? A stunning dome with artwork that tells stories o...
@tobi.eulerrolle
794.8K likes • 4.9M views

🎟️ Book tickets online

Save time and guarantee entry by purchasing your tickets in advance, especially during peak season. TikTok

🚶‍♀️ Allow ample time

Don't rush! Soak in the atmosphere and explore the museums. 1-2 hours is recommended. Reddit

Welcome to one of the most beautiful libraries in the world Austrian National Library📚. Austrian National Library. 📍Josefsplatz 1, 1015 Wien Entrance is €10. Tickets can be purchased on-site. #beautiful #library #найкраща #bibliothek #відень #stephansdom #wien #vienna #viennafood #viennafoodie #viennanow #austria #viennalife #viennaliebe #viennaonly #wenninwien #wienlike #viennatravel ⠀ Vienna tra...
@_natalie_de
115.4K likes • 1.2M views
This is everything YOU NEED TO KNOW about the magnificent State Hall of the Austrian National Library, in Vienna 👇🏻 The Austrian National Library, located in Vienna, is home to a number of museums, including the Literature Museum, the Globe Museum and the Papyrus Museum. This video shows the State Hall, or Main Hall, a masterpiece of Baroque architecture that you have to visit while in the city. ...
getawayswithmarta
147 likes • 6.2K views

📸 Photography is allowed

Capture the beauty, but be mindful of other visitors and avoid flash photography. Instagram

✨ Look up!

The ceiling frescoes are a highlight; take time to admire Daniel Gran's masterpiece. Reddit

This library is a must-see if you‘re in Vienna👇🏻 The State Hall of the Austrian National Library in Vienna is straight out of Beauty and the Beast. Picture this: 80 meters of towering wooden bookshelves filled with ancient books, marble statues that watch over you, and a breathtaking ceiling covered in intricate Baroque frescoes. The centerpiece? A stunning dome with artwork that tells stories ...
tobi.eulerrolle
64.4K likes • 621.9K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎟️ Book tickets online

Save time and guarantee entry by purchasing your tickets in advance, especially during peak season. TikTok

🚶‍♀️ Allow ample time

Don't rush! Soak in the atmosphere and explore the museums. 1-2 hours is recommended. Reddit

📸 Photography is allowed

Capture the beauty, but be mindful of other visitors and avoid flash photography. Instagram

✨ Look up!

The ceiling frescoes are a highlight; take time to admire Daniel Gran's masterpiece. Reddit

📚 For book lovers

This is a dream destination! The sheer volume of books and the historical ambiance are captivating. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.5
(4k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Austrian National Library's State Hall as one of the most beautiful and magical places they've ever seen, often comparing it to a fairy tale. The Baroque architecture, stunning frescoes, and vast collection of books are major highlights. Some note that the visit can be brief and question the ticket price for those not deeply interested in architecture, while others find it worth every penny.

"Visited it on a unexpectedly free day. It was a delight. A masterpiece by von Erlach (the architect of Karlskirche and Schönbrunn Palace).
However, I'm not sure if it is worth the price on a usual day for everyone as there's not much to see except the architecture itself. It took only 15 minutes for me. But if you're a fan of Baroque architecture, I recommend a visit to the State Hall of Austrian National Library."

陳北辰 Артур

"I’m not even in books, nevertheless this library was more than a simple library, the arts, sculptures made me in awe of how talented humans were hundred years ago.
The cupola with Fresco was my favorite part, I was speechless at how Daniel Gran painted it, considered the size of it plus how delicate it was."

Adrianne Cheung

"Worth any money to see… I have visited many libraries around the world and this is one of the most fabulous. And as a geographer, the globe is absolutely amazing. The paintings even the stairwell are all beautiful. I highly recommend visiting. Danke !"

Joseph Kerski

What People Like

Breathtaking Baroque architecture
Stunning ceiling frescoes
Magical, dreamlike atmosphere

What People Dislike

Can be crowded
Short visit duration

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Austrian National Library is centrally located in Vienna's Hofburg Palace. You can easily reach it by public transport. Take the U1 or U3 subway line to the 'Stephansplatz' station, or the U3 line to 'Herrengasse'. From there, it's a short walk. Trams 1, 2, D, and J also stop nearby at 'Kärntner Ring, Oper'. TikTok

Yes, absolutely! It's very well-connected. The closest U-Bahn stations are Stephansplatz and Herrengasse. Several tram lines also stop within walking distance, making it easy to access from anywhere in Vienna. TikTok

Yes, it's a pleasant walk of about 10-15 minutes from St. Stephen's Cathedral through the charming streets of Vienna's city center. TikTok

Parking in Vienna's city center can be challenging and expensive. It's highly recommended to use public transportation. If you must drive, there are several underground parking garages nearby, such as the one at Albertinaplatz or Freyung. Instagram

Many visitors find it easiest to enter through the Hofburg Palace complex and follow signs for the State Hall. The entrance is clearly marked and often has staff to guide you. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The entrance fee for the State Hall is typically around €10. Prices can vary slightly, so it's always best to check the official website for the most current information. TikTok

Tickets can be purchased on-site at the entrance to the State Hall. Many visitors also opt to buy them online in advance to save time, especially during busy periods. TikTok

The State Hall generally opens around 10 AM and closes between 5 PM and 7 PM, depending on the season. It's advisable to check the official website for exact opening hours as they can change. Instagram

While time slots aren't always mandatory, some reviews suggest that timed entry would improve the visitor experience due to crowds. Booking in advance is recommended to avoid disappointment. Reddit

Information on discounts for students, seniors, or groups is usually available on the official website. It's worth checking if you qualify for any reduced rates. TikTok

🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience

The undisputed highlight is the magnificent State Hall (Prunksaal), a breathtaking Baroque hall filled with ancient books, statues, and stunning frescoes. TikTokInstagram

Most visitors spend about 15-30 minutes admiring the State Hall. If you plan to visit the Papyrus Museum or Globe Museum, allow an additional hour or more. Reddit

Yes, photography is generally permitted inside the State Hall, but flash photography is usually prohibited to protect the delicate artworks and books. Instagram

While not always explicitly advertised, you might find information about guided tours on the official website or inquire at the ticket counter. Some visitors have found tours helpful. Reddit

The State Hall is a prime example of Baroque architecture, designed by Johann Bernhard Fischer von Erlach. It features grand scale, ornate decoration, and dramatic use of light and shadow. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There are no dining facilities directly within the State Hall itself. However, the Hofburg Palace complex and the surrounding city center of Vienna offer numerous cafes and restaurants. TikTok

You'll find plenty of options within a short walk. Consider cafes in the Graben or Kohlmarkt areas for traditional Viennese coffee house experiences, or explore restaurants around Stephansplatz. TikTok

It's generally not permitted to consume food or drinks inside the exhibition areas of the library to preserve the historical artifacts. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

The entire State Hall is incredibly photogenic! Focus on the grand scale of the bookshelves, the intricate ceiling frescoes, and the marble statues. The central aisle offers a great perspective. Instagram+1

Yes, it can be challenging to get unobstructed shots when it's crowded. Visiting during off-peak hours or being patient can help you capture better photos. Reddit

Given the lighting, a camera with good low-light performance or a tripod (if allowed and practical) can be beneficial. Many visitors use their smartphones effectively. Instagram

Many visitors aim for wide-angle shots that capture the full grandeur of the hall, including the ceiling. Close-ups of the statues and book spines also make for interesting details. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While the Austrian National Library's State Hall is visually stunning, its primary appeal is architectural and historical. Younger children might find it less engaging than interactive museums. However, the sheer scale and the 'Beauty and the Beast' comparison can spark imagination. TikTokInstagram

Consider focusing on the visual spectacle of the hall and perhaps pointing out the statues. If your children have an interest in history or books, they might appreciate the grandeur. The Globe Museum could also be a point of interest, offering a more tangible connection to geography. Keep the visit relatively short to maintain their attention.

📚 Book Lovers & Academia

For bibliophiles and those with an academic bent, the Austrian National Library is an absolute pilgrimage site. The State Hall's 200,000 historical volumes are a sight to behold, and the atmosphere is conducive to quiet contemplation. Instagram+1

Beyond the State Hall, explore the Papyrus Museum for ancient texts and the Globe Museum for historical cartography. The library's deep historical roots and its role as a repository of knowledge make it a profoundly inspiring place for anyone passionate about literature, history, or research. Instagram

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

The Austrian National Library, particularly the State Hall, is a photographer's dream. The Baroque architecture, the endless rows of books, and the dramatic ceiling frescoes offer endless compositional possibilities. Instagram+1

Aim for wide-angle shots to capture the full grandeur of the hall. Pay attention to the details: the marble statues, the intricate carvings on the bookshelves, and the vibrant colors of the frescoes. Visiting during off-peak hours will significantly improve your chances of getting clear, unobstructed shots. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Magnificent State Hall (Prunksaal)

The heart of the Austrian National Library is its breathtaking State Hall, a true masterpiece of Baroque architecture. Designed by Johann Bernhard Fischer von Erlach, this grand hall stretches 80 meters and is lined with towering, dark wood bookshelves filled with over 200,000 historical volumes. The sheer scale is awe-inspiring, making visitors feel as though they've stepped into another era. TikTokInstagram

Dominating the space are four large marble globes and numerous statues of historical figures, adding to the sense of grandeur and intellectual pursuit. However, the true showstopper is the magnificent ceiling fresco by Daniel Gran. This intricate Baroque artwork depicts allegorical scenes and is considered one of the most beautiful frescoes in Austria. Reddit The combination of the architecture, the books, and the art creates an unforgettable visual experience, often compared to scenes from fairy tales like 'Beauty and the Beast'. Instagram

While the State Hall is the primary attraction, it's important to remember that this is a working library. Visitors are expected to be respectful of the space and its contents. The experience is often described as magical and dreamlike, a testament to the enduring power of knowledge and art. Instagram

Beyond the State Hall: Museums and Collections

While the State Hall garners most of the attention, the Austrian National Library is a vast institution with several other fascinating museums and collections housed within the Hofburg Palace. For those with a keen interest in history and culture, these offer a deeper dive into the library's extensive holdings. Instagram

The Globe Museum is a unique highlight, boasting one of the world's largest collections of historical globes. These intricate celestial and terrestrial spheres offer a fascinating glimpse into how our understanding of the world and the cosmos evolved over centuries. As a geographer, you'll find this collection particularly amazing. Reddit

Another significant collection is the Papyrus Museum, which showcases ancient Egyptian papyri, offering insights into the daily lives, religious beliefs, and administrative practices of ancient civilizations. Exploring these ancient texts provides a tangible connection to the distant past. Instagram

Historical Significance and Origins

The Austrian National Library boasts a rich history, with its origins tracing back to the 14th century. It was established as the Imperial Library by the Habsburg emperors, serving as a repository for their vast collections of books and manuscripts. Instagram Over centuries, it grew in importance and size, reflecting the intellectual and political power of the empire. The current Baroque State Hall, completed in 1737, was designed by Johann Bernhard Fischer von Erlach and represents a pinnacle of imperial patronage of the arts and sciences. Reddit

During the Habsburg era, the library was not just a place for scholarly research but also a symbol of imperial prestige. Emperors like Charles VI commissioned grand architectural projects to house and display their collections, ensuring the library's status as a cultural treasure. The library's collections were significantly expanded through acquisitions, donations, and the confiscation of monastic libraries during the Enlightenment. Instagram

Today, the Austrian National Library is one of the largest libraries in the world, holding over 12 million items. It continues to be a vital center for research and a custodian of invaluable historical and cultural heritage, preserving centuries of knowledge for future generations. Instagram