Vienna’s Palace of Justice, or Justizpalast, is a 19th-century neo-Renaissance court building on Schmerlingplatz, near the Ringstraße. Visitors can see the monumental staircase, marble columns, glass ceiling and statue of Justice in the main hall, then head to the rooftop café for city views. Entry is free, but a thorough security check and limited admission mean you should plan around the hourly groups of 25. It is a good short stop for architecture, photography and a view from above.
A court building open to visitors
The Justizpalast is home to Austria’s Supreme Court. Completed in 1881, the neo-Renaissance building stands on Schmerlingplatz, near the Ringstraße and the Austrian Parliament. Its public areas give visitors a chance to see the architecture while the building remains a working court.
Entry is free, but access is limited. Groups of 25 are admitted hourly, and the final admission is at 2:30 p.m. An exhibition inside can affect whether visitors are allowed in, so check the official Justizpalast website before setting out.
The main hall and staircase
The entrance opens onto a large hall dominated by a monumental staircase. Marble columns rise toward the glass ceiling, which brings light into the space. The statue of Justice stands at the centre of the interior, giving the hall its defining focal point.
Visitors can also see the second-floor gallery. The staircase, columns and glass roof are the main details to look for, and photography is permitted in the main stairway. Do not photograph the security area.
Security and admission
Everyone passes through a thorough security check before entering. Keep your belongings easy to inspect and leave suitcases elsewhere; luggage is not permitted. Arriving ahead of an hourly group gives you a better chance of entering with that group, but admission is limited to 25 people at a time.
Wait in the queue and keep your place respectfully. If you arrive after a group is full, you may need to wait for the next admission. The building is accessible by wheelchair at the entrance and restroom, and wheelchair-accessible parking is listed.
The rooftop café
The Justizcafé is on the upper floor and is open to the public as well as court employees. Its terrace and café area look out over Vienna, making it a natural place to pause after seeing the hall. Food and drinks are available there; the supplied information does not specify menu items.
Perguntas frequentes
Is entry to the Palace of Justice free?
Yes. Admission is free, but visitors must pass security and entry is limited to groups of 25 per hour.
When is the last admission?
The last admission is at 2:30 p.m. Arrive before an hourly group fills, as you may otherwise need to wait for the next one.
Can you visit the café without seeing the main hall?
The Justizcafé is open to the public, but visitors enter through the building and pass through security.
How long should you allow for a visit?
Allow about 30 to 60 minutes for the hall and café. Waiting for admission can add time.
