Town Hall (Rathaus)
St. Pölten's historic Town Hall (Rathaus) boasts a stunning Baroque facade and is a key administrative and historical landmark.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Town Hall (Rathaus)
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Highlights
Must-see attractions
St. Pölten's historic Town Hall (Rathaus) boasts a stunning Baroque facade and is a key administrative and historical landmark.
"The Town Hall is an impressive building and a landmark of the city, conveying a touch of history and tradition."
📸 Capture the Facade
Get your best shots of the Rathaus from Rathausplatz, especially during golden hour. :camerawithflash:
🗺️ Tourist Info Nearby
A tourist office with city maps is conveniently located next to the Rathaus. :world_map:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Baroque Facade
Rathausplatz
Admire the elegant Baroque facade of the Town Hall, a true symbol of St. Pölten's historical charm.
Tower Views
Church Towers (near Rathaus)
Climb nearby church towers for excellent panoramic views of the city and the Rathaus.
Schubert House
Adjacent to Rathaus
Visit the Schubert House, site of the first 'Schubertiad' evenings, celebrating the composer's works.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Understand the Rathaus's Role
Navigating Rathausplatz
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
St Pölten beef
📸 Capture the Facade
Get your best shots of the Rathaus from Rathausplatz, especially during golden hour. :camerawithflash:
🗺️ Tourist Info Nearby
A tourist office with city maps is conveniently located next to the Rathaus. :world_map:
Things to do in St Pölten?
Studying in St. Polten
🚶♂️ Explore the Square
Wander around Rathausplatz to soak in the atmosphere and discover nearby historical spots. :walking:
🏛️ Limited Interior Access
Interior visits might be restricted to specific rooms like the main hall. :informationdeskperson:
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Capture the Facade
Get your best shots of the Rathaus from Rathausplatz, especially during golden hour. :camerawithflash:
🗺️ Tourist Info Nearby
A tourist office with city maps is conveniently located next to the Rathaus. :world_map:
🚶♂️ Explore the Square
Wander around Rathausplatz to soak in the atmosphere and discover nearby historical spots. :walking:
🏛️ Limited Interior Access
Interior visits might be restricted to specific rooms like the main hall. :informationdeskperson:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The Town Hall is a significant historical landmark with an impressive Baroque facade, serving as a symbol of St. Pölten. Visitors appreciate its architectural beauty and historical context, as well as the nearby tourist information and Schubert House. However, some find the surrounding square can feel overcrowded and chaotic at times, impacting the overall experience.
"Severely racist small town. It felt like the locals had never seen an Asian person before. Every single minor I encountered—without exception—made some sort of racist comment. Even if the schools start educating differently now, these kids will grow up to teach their own children, so there’s little hope for change. The state capital? A small town attached to Vienna. My experience living here has made me never want to visit Austria again."
2순돌
"It's the best place to get new information and the people there are always ready to help."
Sami Boicu
"On the Town Hall Square (Rathausplatz) there is a building (Rathaus) with a Baroque facade. This is the symbol of the city. The church towers offer excellent views of the city. It was possible to visit some rooms of the Town Hall, but we limited ourselves to only the hall.
The Town Hall houses the city senate and the federal council of the state of Lower Austria, the residence of the burgomaster and some services of the city magistrate.
The Town Hall building combines two buildings. The first mention of the Rathaus is found in a document from 1503, which states that the wealthy townsman Thomas Pudmer sold his house to the city council for the Town Hall. Today his house occupies the eastern part of the town hall. The building of the western part was purchased in the 16th century. and connected both houses with a single facade. In 1591, an octagonal tower was added in the center, which was used to store weapons and grain.
In 1727, the facade acquired a baroque appearance: flat pilasters of the Corinthian order and original pediments above the windows of the 2nd floor. The architect was Joseph Mungenast. At the same time, a large council hall was built, now the burgomaster's office, with an “imperial ceiling.”
To the left of the Town Hall is a tourist office with a cool picture on the window. (you can take a map of the city) and the Schubert House, where in 1821 the first “Schubertiad” took place (the so-called evenings at which the works of F. Schubert were performed among friends and acquaintances).
How nice is the square near the town hall..."
Ірина Олексіївна Бенцлер
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Town Hall is centrally located on Rathausplatz in St. Pölten. It's easily accessible by public transport, with many bus routes stopping nearby. If driving, look for parking facilities around the city center.
Yes, St. Pölten is a state capital and well-connected. Frequent train services run from Vienna to St. Pölten, making it a convenient day trip destination.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Viewing the exterior of the Town Hall and Rathausplatz is free. Access to specific interior rooms may vary and might require inquiry at the tourist office or city administration.
Public access to the Town Hall's interior is generally limited. For specific visiting hours or to inquire about tours, it's best to check with the St. Pölten tourist information center.
While the exterior is a major attraction, interior visits are often restricted to certain areas like the main hall. Some reviews mention being able to visit some rooms.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
Besides the Rathaus itself, Rathausplatz is a focal point. You'll also find the tourist office and the historic Schubert House nearby.
Some visitors note that Rathausplatz can become overcrowded, especially during events, which can detract from its charm.
The Town Hall building has a history dating back to 1503, with significant Baroque renovations in 1727. It houses important city and state administrative functions.
Absolutely! The Baroque facade offers a beautiful backdrop. For wider city views, consider climbing nearby church towers.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are dining options in the vicinity. One recommendation for a finer dining experience is Vinzenz Pauli.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🏛️ History Buffs
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Rathaus: A Historical Gem
The most striking transformation occurred in 1727 when architect Joseph Mungenast gave the facade its distinctive Baroque appearance, characterized by flat pilasters and ornate pediments. During this renovation, a grand council hall was also constructed, which now serves as the burgomaster's office and features an 'imperial ceiling.' This architectural evolution makes the Rathaus a fascinating study in historical layering.
Today, the Rathaus remains the seat of the city senate and the federal council of Lower Austria, housing the burgomaster's office and various city magistrate services. While public access to all interior spaces might be limited, its imposing presence on Rathausplatz makes it a central point of interest for visitors exploring St. Pölten's heritage.
Rathausplatz: The City's Heart
However, some visitors have noted that the square can feel chaotic and sprawling when it becomes overcrowded. This can sometimes diminish the intended welcoming atmosphere. Despite this, the square remains a key location for understanding the city's layout and historical core.
Adjacent to the Rathaus, you'll find the tourist office, a useful resource for maps and information about the city. Also nearby is the Schubert House, a place of cultural significance as the venue for the first 'Schubertiad' evenings, dedicated to the works of composer Franz Schubert. Exploring Rathausplatz offers a glimpse into both the administrative and cultural life of St. Pölten.
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