When I learned that Vienna has a Shakespeare and Co, I knew I had to visit. As someone who fell in love with its Parisian counterpart, stepping into its Viennese location felt like revisiting an old friend in a new city. Nestled in the heart of Vienna, this cozy bookshop is one of the best English bookstores in Vienna, offering a curated selection of classics, contemporary titles, and travel guides that seem to call out to the wandering soul.

There’s something about being surrounded by books in a foreign city that feels grounding yet freeing—like you’re part of something bigger. Vienna’s Shakespeare and Co does just that. Beyond books, it’s a space that invites you to pause, wander, and connect with fellow readers. If you’re in Vienna, don’t miss the chance to visit this literary haven and soak in the city’s vibrant cultural and intellectual spirit.

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

Why Visit Vienna’s Shakespeare and Company?

For English-speaking readers, finding a bookstore like Shakespeare and Company in a predominantly German-speaking city feels like uncovering a hidden gem. This bookstore stands out not just for its literary offerings but for its ambiance—warm wooden shelves lined with books, the scent of paper mingling with the hum of quiet conversations. Whether you’re hunting for a specific title or browsing aimlessly, this space invites you to linger. It’s a haven for solo travelers and literary enthusiasts looking to immerse themselves in a world of stories far from home.

Quick History

Shakespeare and Company traces its roots back to Paris, where the original store became a beacon for expatriate writers like Ernest Hemingway and James Joyce in the 1920s. The Vienna location carries the same spirit, albeit with a modern twist. It serves as a hub for readers, writers, and thinkers, hosting events and offering a space to celebrate the written word. Though smaller than its Parisian sibling, this branch has carved its niche in Vienna’s literary scene, bridging cultures through books.

How to Get to Shakespeare and Company

Shakespeare and Company is located at Sterngasse 2, 1010 Vienna, in the heart of the city center.

• By Public Transport:
  Take the U1 or U3 subway to Stephansplatz and walk 5 minutes to the bookstore.
• By Tram:
  Tram lines 1, 2, or D stop at Schwedenplatz, which is an 8-minute walk away.
• Walking Directions:
  From Stephansdom, head down Rotenturmstraße and take a left onto Sterngasse.

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Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Shakespeare and Company is mid-morning, between 10:00 AM and noon, when the streets are quieter, and the bookstore offers a more intimate atmosphere. Weekdays are ideal if you want to avoid the weekend rush of tourists exploring Vienna’s city center.

Top Attractions Near Shakespeare and Company

Exploring the area around Shakespeare and Company in Vienna unveils a treasure trove of history, culture, and architectural wonders. From iconic landmarks like St. Stephen’s Cathedral to hidden gems such as Maria am Gestade, these top sights offer a perfect mix of grandeur and intimacy for travelers seeking memorable experiences.

1. The Austrian National Library

A Baroque masterpiece and one of the most beautiful libraries in the world, the Austrian National Library is a short walk from Shakespeare and Company. Its ornate ceilings, massive wooden bookshelves, and historical manuscripts make it a haven for history and literature enthusiasts.

• Address: Josefsplatz 1, 1015 Vienna
• Opening Hours: Tues–Sun 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
• Entrance Fee: Adults 8 €; Students 5 €

2. The Imperial Crypt

Beneath the Capuchin Church lies the Imperial Crypt, the burial site of the Habsburg dynasty. Its somber atmosphere and ornate sarcophagi offer a reflective glimpse into Austria’s imperial history.

• 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

3. Ankeruhr

A delightful Art Nouveau clock located in the heart of Vienna, Ankeruhr charms visitors with its unique design and hourly parades of historical figures. Arrive at noon to witness the full procession accompanied by music.

• Address: Hoher Markt, 1010 Vienna
• Opening Hours: Viewable anytime
• Entrance Fee: Free

4. Catholic Church Maria am Gestade

This Gothic church, one of Vienna’s oldest, is an architectural treasure tucked away in a quiet corner of the city center. Known for its distinctive spire and peaceful atmosphere, it’s a perfect stop for those seeking serenity amidst the bustling city.

• Address: Salvatorgasse 12, 1010 Vienna
• Opening Hours: Daily 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM
• Entrance Fee: Free

5. The Sisi Museum

Located in the Hofburg Palace, the Sisi Museum offers an intimate look into the life of Empress Elisabeth of Austria. Known as Sisi, her complex personality and tragic life are brought to life through personal belongings and vivid storytelling.

• Address: Michaelerkuppel, 1010 Vienna
• Opening Hours: Daily 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM
• Entrance Fee: Adults 15 €; Children (6–18) 9 € | Book Hofburg and Empress Sisi Museum Guided Tour
  

6. St. Stephen’s Cathedral (Stephansdom)

Vienna’s iconic Gothic cathedral is a must-see. Climb the south tower for panoramic city views or explore the crypts below for a journey into Vienna’s storied past.

• Address: Stephansplatz 3, 1010 Vienna
• Opening Hours: Mon–Sat 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM; Sun 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
  

These attractions provide a perfect blend of history, architecture, and culture. From the ornate beauty of the Austrian National Library to the mesmerizing Ankeruhr, each offers a unique window into Vienna’s rich heritage, making them must-visits when exploring the city around Shakespeare and Company.

Where to Stay Near Vienna’s Shakespeare and Company

For those planning to visit Shakespeare and Company in Vienna, staying close to the city center ensures a seamless blend of convenience and charm. This curated list of accommodations offers something for every traveler, from boutique stays to luxurious havens—all with excellent reviews to match their stellar locations.

1. Pension Central

• Address: Mühlgasse 6, 1040 Vienna
• Price Range: €90–€140 per night
• A budget-friendly choice offering cozy rooms and personalized service. Located near Vienna’s city center, it’s just a 15-minute walk to Shakespeare and Company and other major attractions.
• BOOK NOW

2. Hotel Topazz Lamee

• Address: Lichtensteg 3, 1010 Vienna
• Price Range: €220–€350 per night
• A striking blend of luxury and modern design, this hotel offers stylish rooms, excellent amenities, and stunning rooftop views of the city. It’s just steps from Shakespeare and Company.
• BOOK NOW

3. elaya hotel vienna city center

• Address: Fleischmarkt 20, 1010 Vienna
• Price Range: €120–€200 per night
• Modern and elegant, this boutique hotel features well-appointed rooms in the heart of Vienna. An ideal base for exploring, it’s an 8-minute walk from Shakespeare and Company.
• BOOK NOW

4. Hollmann Beletage Design & Boutique Hotel

• Address: Köllnerhofgasse 6, 1010 Vienna
• Price Range: €250–€400 per night
• With its emphasis on design and individuality, this boutique hotel offers spacious rooms, gourmet breakfasts, and thoughtful touches, all less than 10 minutes on foot from Shakespeare and Company.
• BOOK NOW

5. The Leo Grand

• Address: Bauernmarkt 1, 1010 Vienna
• Price Range: €300–€500 per night
• A luxurious retreat blending historic architecture with modern flair. Located in the heart of Vienna, it offers refined comfort and is a short walk from Shakespeare and Company.
• BOOK NOW

Final Thoughts

Visiting Shakespeare and Company in Vienna is more than just a trip to a bookstore—it’s a pilgrimage for those who find solace in the written word. Whether you’re a traveler seeking a moment of quiet, a literary enthusiast on a quest for your next read, or simply curious about Vienna’s English-language literary scene, this quaint shop won’t disappoint. Pair it with nearby attractions for a day steeped in culture and history, and you’ll leave Vienna with more than just memories—you’ll leave with stories.