For book lovers, the State Hall of the Austrian National Library is more than a repository of books—it’s a living testament to Austria’s cultural and intellectual legacy. Nestled within the Hofburg Palace, this awe-inspiring space merges history, art, and literature in a breathtaking display of Baroque grandeur. The State Hall, or Prunksaal, is its crowning jewel: a masterpiece of towering bookshelves, centuries-old tomes, and frescoed ceilings that seem to dance with light. To step into this hall is to step into a realm of reverence—where the minds that shaped history, the hands that preserved it, and the artisans who celebrated it come alive in the splendor of their creation.

I came upon this literary sanctuary while wandering through Vienna’s stately streets, though it was far from an accident. From the moment I planned my trip, there were four experiences I held close: to marvel at Klimt’s luminous works, lose myself in the hushed beauty of the National Library, linger inside an independent bookshop, and trace the spiritual legacy of St. Stephen’s Cathedral. Each held its own magic, but stepping into the Austrian National Library felt like discovering a portal—where the written word becomes art and architecture becomes poetry. For lovers of books, history, and beauty, it is not just a place to visit, but a moment to experience—one that lingers long after you’ve left.

Quick Vienna Guide

The best luxury hotel: The Amauris Vienna – Relais & Châteaux, The Ritz-Carlton, Vienna, Hotel Imperial
The best boutique hotel: Hotel Josefine, Boutique Hotel Das Tigra, Boutiquehotel Das Tyrol
The best budget hotel: Rioca Vienna Posto 2, BASSENA Wien Messe Prater, BASSENA Wien Donaustadt
The best hostels: Vienna Hostel Ruthensteiner, Prater City Hostel

Book the ticketed places in advance. You can get them all on getyourguide.com. Listed them all here as well. 

• Skip the line at Leopold Museum
• Vienna Public Transport city card and attraction discounts
• Vienna PASS: 1, 2, 3, or 6 Days of Sightseeing
• Vienna Hop-on Hop-off
• Belvedere Palace Ticket
• Other Vienna tours and tickets

Quick History Lesson on the State Hall of the Austrian National Library

The Austrian National Library is what happens when history and grandeur collide in a truly spectacular way. Nestled in Vienna’s Hofburg Palace, this library has been the keeper of Austria’s soul for over 650 years. It all started with the Habsburgs—those rulers with a knack for drama—deciding they needed a collection that matched their empire’s glory. The library grew, collecting everything from ancient manuscripts to maps, globes, and even papyri, becoming one of the most prestigious libraries in the world.

But let’s talk about the real star: the Prunksaal, or State Hall. Walking into it feels like stepping onto the set of a period drama—minus the corsets. Built in the 18th century under Emperor Charles VI, it’s a 200-foot-long masterpiece of Baroque design. Frescoes swirl across the ceilings, marble statues line the hall, and over 200,000 leather-bound books whisper centuries of stories from their gilded shelves.

For me, it wasn’t just a library—it was a portal. I felt like I’d been transported to an age when books were treasures, not just things you leave on a nightstand. If you’re in Vienna and don’t visit this place, I can’t promise I won’t judge you. It’s that extraordinary.

Why Visit the Austrian National Library?

Architectural Splendor: The highlight is the State Hall, a Baroque masterpiece built in the 18th century. Its frescoed ceiling, marble statues, and rows of ancient leather-bound books make it one of the world’s most beautiful libraries. I stood in awe, surrounded by art and knowledge in perfect harmony.

Cultural and Historical Significance: Housing over 12 million items, the library preserves Austria’s rich literary and historical legacy. Rare manuscripts, ancient globes, and historical maps offer a glimpse into the past, making it a treasure trove for history enthusiasts.

Photography Heaven: Every corner of the library is a visual delight. Whether it’s the intricate frescoes or the play of light on gilded wood, photographers will find endless inspiration here.

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How to Get to the Austrian National Library

The library is centrally located within the Hofburg Palace in Vienna’s 1st district.

• By Metro: Take the U3 line to Herrengasse.
• By Tram: Lines 1, 2, 71, or D to Burgring.
• By Foot: A short walk from St. Stephen’s Cathedral.

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Best Time to Visit

The library is captivating year-round, but mornings tend to be quieter, allowing you to take in its beauty without the crowds. If your trip falls in winter, visiting the Austrian National Library and other museums are quiet refuge from sometimes snowy, very cold, and windy day, which is common in Vienna in winter.

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Top Attractions Near the Austrian National Library

Vienna’s historic center offers a tapestry of cultural landmarks, each narrating a unique chapter of the city’s rich heritage. As a seasoned traveler, I have wandered through these storied sites, each leaving an indelible mark on my journey.

Imperial Crypt

Beneath the modest Capuchin Church lies the Imperial Crypt, the final resting place of the Habsburg dynasty. The somber atmosphere and ornate sarcophagi evoke a profound sense of history and mortality.

• Address: Tegetthoffstraße 2, 1010 Vienna
• Opening Hours: Daily 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
• Entrance Fee: Adults 8,50 €; Reduced 7,50 €; Family 18,50 €; Children/Pupils (up to 18) 5,00 € or book via getyourguide.com to skip the line

Hofburg Palace

The Hofburg Palace, once the epicenter of the Habsburg empire, now houses museums and the Austrian President’s office. Its opulent rooms and imperial artifacts offer a glimpse into royal life.

• Address: Michaelerkuppel, 1010 Vienna
• Opening Hours: Daily 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM
• Entrance Fee: Audioguide: 75 min | Adults: 19,50 €; Children (6+): 12,00 € Guided Tour: 75 min | Adults: 24,50 €; Children (6+): 14,50 € | Book Hofburg and Empress Sisi Museum Guided Tour

Schmetterlinghaus (Butterfly House)

Adjacent to the Burggarten, the Schmetterlinghaus is a tropical oasis where vibrant butterflies flit amidst lush greenery, creating a serene escape from urban bustle.

• Address: Burggarten 1, 1010 Vienna
• Opening Hours: Daily 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
• Entrance Fee: Adults 9,50 €; Seniors 7,00 €; Vienna City Card 8,00 €; Students (26-) 7,00 €; Children (3+): 5,00 €; Teachers/Disabled (with assistant): Free

Imperial Treasury Vienna

Within the Hofburg, the Imperial Treasury safeguards Austria’s most precious regalia, including the imperial crown and jewels, each piece a testament to the nation’s grandeur.

• Address: Hofburg, Schweizerhof, 1010 Vienna
• Opening Hours: Wednesday to Monday 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM; Closed Tuesdays
• Entrance Fee: 34 € Vienna: Imperial Treasury & New Hofburg Palace Combo Ticket | Adults 16 €; Vienna City Card 15 €; Reduced 12 €; Children/Youth (0–19) Free |

Heldenplatz

Heldenplatz, or Heroes’ Square, is a monumental public space flanked by historic edifices. It has borne witness to pivotal events, its open expanse inviting reflection on Austria’s past.

• Address: Heldenplatz, 1010 Vienna
• Opening Hours: Open 24 hours
• Entrance Fee: Free

Albertina

The Albertina museum boasts an extensive collection of art, from Dürer’s masterful sketches to Monet’s impressionist canvases, housed within a former Habsburg residence.

• Address: Albertinaplatz 1, 1010 Vienna
• Opening Hours: Daily 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM; Wednesdays and Fridays until 9:00 PM
• Entrance Fee: Standard €19.90; Seniors/Young Adults (26-) €15.90; Children (19-) Free; Combined Ticket €24.90; Annual Pass €78. | Book here

St. Stephen’s Cathedral

Dominating the city skyline, St. Stephen’s Cathedral is a Gothic masterpiece. Its intricate stonework and patterned roof tiles inspire awe, while the interior exudes sacred grandeur.

• Address: Stephansplatz 3, 1010 Vienna
• Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM; Sunday 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM
• Entrance Fee: Free entry; Guided tours and tower access have separate fees. | St. Stephen’s Cathedral & Dom Museum Wien Tickets | Classical Concert at St. Stephen’s Cathedral |

St. Peter’s Catholic Church

Tucked away near the bustling Graben, St. Peter’s Church is a Baroque gem. Its lavish interior, adorned with frescoes and gilded stucco, offers a tranquil retreat for contemplation.

• Address: Petersplatz 1, 1010 Vienna
• Opening Hours: Monday to Friday 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM; Saturday and Sunday 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM
• Entrance Fee: Free

Each of these sites is within walking distance of the Austrian National Library, allowing travelers to immerse themselves in Vienna’s imperial and artistic heritage over the course of a single day.

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Where to Stay Near the Austrian National Library

1. Hotel Sacher Wien

2. Steigenberger Hotel Herrenhof

3. Pension Suzanne

Explore the best places to stay in Vienna, carefully curated from our many visits and trusted recommendations from family and friends who’ve experienced the city countless times.

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Conclusion

The Austrian National Library isn’t just a destination—it’s a place that lingers with you long after you’ve left. Its majestic halls and priceless collections offer more than a glimpse into Austria’s history—they immerse you in its very essence. Whether you love books, history, or simply discovering something beautiful, this iconic library is an unforgettable experience.

I’m already picturing my little family exploring Vienna—our little one’s tiny steps echoing through the Museum Quarter or chasing pigeons at Stephansplatz. Living in Munich, one of Europe’s great perks is how close it all feels, like the next adventure is always within reach.