State Hall Austrian National Library Vienna
Step into a fairytale at Vienna's State Hall, a breathtaking Baroque library with towering bookshelves and stunning frescoes.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene atmosphere.
State Hall Austrian National Library Vienna
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene atmosphere.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step into a fairytale at Vienna's State Hall, a breathtaking Baroque library with towering bookshelves and stunning frescoes.
"This library is a must-see if you’re in Vienna, straight out of Beauty and the Beast!"
📸 Capture the Magic
Photography is generally allowed, but check for any restrictions. Get those Beauty and the Beast vibes! :camerawithflash:
🚶♀️ Wear Comfy Shoes
You'll likely be doing a lot of walking and standing to admire the architecture. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The State Hall (Prunksaal)
Main Hall
A breathtaking Baroque masterpiece with towering bookshelves, marble statues, and stunning frescoes.
Baroque Frescoed Ceiling
State Hall Ceiling
Intricate artwork depicting allegorical scenes, a true testament to 18th-century artistry.
Antique Globe Collection
Globe Museum (part of the library complex)
Explore historical globes and celestial maps, offering a unique perspective on cartography.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Visit in Advance
Embrace the Grandeur
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Capture the Magic
Photography is generally allowed, but check for any restrictions. Get those Beauty and the Beast vibes!
🚶♀️ Wear Comfy Shoes
You'll likely be doing a lot of walking and standing to admire the architecture. :athletic_shoe:
🎟️ Ticket Info
Entry is around €10, with tickets available on-site. Look out for special free entry days!
📚 Explore Beyond the Hall
Don't miss the other museums within the library complex, like the Papyrus Museum.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Capture the Magic
Photography is generally allowed, but check for any restrictions. Get those Beauty and the Beast vibes!
🚶♀️ Wear Comfy Shoes
You'll likely be doing a lot of walking and standing to admire the architecture. :athletic_shoe:
🎟️ Ticket Info
Entry is around €10, with tickets available on-site. Look out for special free entry days!
📚 Explore Beyond the Hall
Don't miss the other museums within the library complex, like the Papyrus Museum.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the State Hall for its breathtaking beauty and historical significance, often comparing it to a fairytale setting. The magnificent Baroque architecture, towering bookshelves, and intricate frescoes leave a lasting impression. Some find the entrance fee a bit high for a relatively short visit, and occasional crowds can detract from the serene atmosphere.
"Stunning externally and internally. Ornate lavish baroque architecture, marble statues and columns, elaborate frescoes adorn the ceilings and walls, bookcases that reveal glimpses of rooms behind, and intriguing staircases leading to the unknown.
It's both fascinating and breathtaking just looking at the detail and the vast collection of historical literature on display.
In a building where it appears time has stood still, I love the juxtaposition with the very interesting exhibition looking at Austria's history from 1925 to the current day. A century in pictures'.
The State Hall is normally closed on a Monday. However, opening hours change from June, and I was fortunate to stop by on the 1st Monday in June.
Definitely worth a visit and the €11 entry fee."
Supa N
"Breathtaking library! The grandeur and the beauty of this place is unique. We took our tickets once there and we didn’t wait at all! The tickets were 11 euros per person. Definitely a well spent money! Highly recommend it for everyone who is visiting Vienna."
Borislav Tomov
"Just like in the movies! It is a fantastic library with a relatively cheaper ticket than other museums (around €10, maybe even lower with discounts). It has a great atmosphere with frescoes on the ceiling, rare books from the Middle Ages and wooden bookcases! Great!"
Dimitris Alexiou
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The State Hall is centrally located within the Hofburg Palace complex at Josefsplatz 1, 1010 Vienna. You can easily reach it by public transport, with several tram and bus lines stopping nearby. The U1 and U3 subway lines also have stations within walking distance.
Yes, the Austrian National Library is very accessible by public transport. The nearest U-Bahn stations are Stephansplatz (U1, U3) and Herrengasse (U3), both a short walk away. Numerous bus and tram lines also serve the area.
Absolutely! St. Stephen's Cathedral is a popular landmark, and the State Hall is a pleasant 10-15 minute walk from there through Vienna's charming city center.
Parking in the immediate vicinity of the Hofburg Palace can be challenging and expensive. It's highly recommended to use public transportation or a taxi to reach the State Hall.
For convenience and to avoid parking hassles, taking the U-Bahn (subway) to Stephansplatz or Herrengasse station is often the most efficient method.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee for the State Hall is typically around €10 per adult. Prices can vary, so it's always a good idea to check the official Austrian National Library website for the most current information.
Tickets can be purchased directly at the entrance on-site. Some visitors recommend buying them in advance online to potentially save time, especially during busy periods.
Occasionally, there are special promotions offering free entry. For example, holders of an annual pass for Vienna public transportation have been granted free entry and guided tours on specific dates. Keep an eye on their announcements!
Opening hours can vary seasonally and may be affected by holidays or special events. It's best to consult the official website of the Austrian National Library for the most up-to-date opening times before your visit.
Yes, you can explore the State Hall independently. Guided tours are often available and can offer deeper insights into the history and architecture, but they are not mandatory for entry.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
The State Hall (Prunksaal) is renowned for its magnificent Baroque architecture, featuring towering wooden bookshelves filled with ancient tomes, impressive marble statues, and a breathtaking frescoed ceiling. It's often compared to the library in Beauty and the Beast.
Photography is generally permitted for personal use, but it's important to be respectful and avoid flash photography, which can damage the delicate artworks and books. Always check for any posted signs regarding photography rules.
Most visitors spend between 1 to 2 hours exploring the State Hall and its immediate surroundings. This allows ample time to admire the architecture, read the informational displays, and take photos.
Yes, the Austrian National Library houses several other museums, including the Papyrus Museum, the Globe Museum, and the Literature Museum. Your ticket may grant access to some of these as well.
The atmosphere is often described as awe-inspiring, grand, and incredibly peaceful. The sheer scale of the hall and the historical significance of the books create a unique and immersive experience.
📸 📸 Photography
The main hall itself offers countless photo opportunities. Try capturing the full length of the bookshelves, the intricate ceiling frescoes, and the statues. The entrance area also provides a grand perspective.
Tripods are often restricted in historical and museum settings to prevent damage and ensure smooth visitor flow. It's best to check the specific rules on the day of your visit or on their website.
Late afternoons can offer beautiful lighting as the sun streams through the windows, creating a warm glow. However, any time of day provides a stunning backdrop due to the hall's impressive illumination.
Avoid using flash photography, as it can be detrimental to the preservation of the books and artworks. Also, be mindful of other visitors and avoid blocking pathways while taking pictures.
A camera with good low-light performance is beneficial. Wide-angle lenses are excellent for capturing the grandeur of the hall, while a standard lens can focus on architectural details and statues.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Encourage them to imagine themselves as explorers discovering ancient knowledge. While the focus is on quiet admiration, the visual spectacle alone is often enough to keep younger visitors engaged. Consider visiting during less crowded times, like weekday mornings, to allow children more space to move and absorb the surroundings without feeling overwhelmed. 📚 Book Lovers & History Buffs
+1 The Baroque architecture and the frescoed ceilings are as much a part of the experience as the books themselves, offering a deep dive into the cultural and artistic heritage of the Habsburg era. +1📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Aim for wide-angle shots to capture the immense scale of the hall, and don't forget to look up to photograph the stunning ceiling artwork. Be mindful of the lighting conditions; late afternoons can offer a beautiful, warm glow. Remember to respect the rules regarding flash photography to protect the delicate environment. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History: The Prunksaal
+1The shelves are filled with over 200,000 volumes, many of which are historical and rare. The hall also features four large globes and numerous marble statues of emperors and scholars, adding to its majestic atmosphere. Visitors often remark on the feeling of stepping back in time, surrounded by centuries of knowledge and artistry.
The Prunksaal is not just a library; it's a monument to the Habsburg dynasty's intellectual and cultural ambitions.Many visitors draw parallels between the State Hall and the library depicted in Disney's Beauty and the Beast, noting the similar sense of wonder and enchantment.
This comparison highlights the timeless appeal and almost magical quality of the space. The library complex also houses other specialized museums, such as the Globe Museum and the Papyrus Museum, offering further opportunities for exploration for those interested in history and cartography. Navigating Your Visit: Practical Tips
However, to avoid potential queues, especially during peak tourist seasons, consider booking your tickets online in advance through the official Austrian National Library website. Always check the website for the most current opening hours, as these can vary seasonally and may be subject to change due to special events or holidays. When it comes to exploring the hall, comfortable footwear is a must. You'll want to take your time to fully appreciate the grandeur of the architecture, the detailed frescoes, and the vast collection of books. Photography is generally allowed, but it's crucial to be respectful. Avoid using flash, as it can damage the delicate historical items, and be mindful of other visitors to ensure everyone can enjoy the space.
Many visitors find that late afternoon offers particularly beautiful lighting as the sun streams through the windows, enhancing the hall's already stunning ambiance. Beyond the main State Hall, the Austrian National Library complex offers more to discover. Don't miss the Globe Museum, which showcases an impressive collection of historical globes and celestial maps, providing a fascinating look at how the world was understood through the ages.
The Papyrus Museum is another intriguing option for those interested in ancient history and writing. These additional attractions offer a more comprehensive understanding of the library's vast holdings and historical significance.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit