Note: Jewish Parts closed early (1pm) for Shavu'ot and probably for other key holidays. We had two and a half hours to explore before closing and saw both the old overgrown (Tor 1) and the new more tidily kept (Tor 4) Jewish sections, locating family. If looking for family markers, Israelitische Kultusgemeinde can help you with row and section. Tel... More

This is the place to come if you like books - big book, leather bound books, historical books... The National Library collects and conserves the knowledge of centuries, from early manuscript to huge atlases. All of this in a beautiful setting. You really can feel what importance books held... A different selection of interesting books is always on display.

With sumptious palaces and heavenly churches and cathedrals the Nationalbibliothek would not normally get a second chance, but having spotted an entry in the guide book, we were glad that we did go in. The building has a wonderful feeling about it and also updates the visitor on Vienna's more recent (and sometimes unfortunate) history. Probably not for tinies, but... More

dont forget to visit the national library , the one in Hofburg Palace ,downtown vienna. it is sooo awesome! i am not a book fans,but it really made my eyes wide opened. lots of antique books,they just laying there for you to see,a librarian will assist you if you curious enough to browse inside.don't opened them without their permission.Also, looked... More

An Emperor doesn't necessarily have to cut corners. Indeed, they have an incentive to display their wealth as a demonstration of power. Regardless of a particular rulers interest or lack of interest in reading, the result can be magnificent. That is the case with the National Library. The exhibits are interesting, well signed and housed in a building with optimal... More

Well done stories and overall context of the Nazi takeover of Austria on its 75 th anniversary. Otherwise the library is mostly another monument to the Hapsburgs' wealth and desire for status.

Hesitant at first to pay 7€ (6.30 with Vienna card), we're so glad we ventured in. Frescoes ceiling, 2-story wooden bookshelves, old globes, and an interesting exhibit about WW II in Austria, it was definitely worthwhile. Given the choice between the Imperial Treasury and this, the library wins hands down.

My sister and I took a trip to Vienna in October and this was a must see for her, as she's an avid book reader. She LOVED it and I was pleasantly surprised that I wasn't bored! There was a 7 euro entrance fee and it was definitely worth it. There was mention about a project to digitize the books... More

One of the most sumptuous libraries in the world, a tour de force of the baroque and one of the real unmissable splendours of Vienna. Only Melk can rival it. And that's just to look at! the treasures it contains are inestimable.