France, ParisJuly 15, 2024, by Valérie van Mameren

Here you will find the most beautiful library in Paris

France, Paris, July 15, 2024, by Valérie van Mameren

Here you will find the most beautiful library in Paris

Sometimes you just feel like your mouth drops open in amazement. There is a good chance that this will also happen when you visit this beautiful library in Paris. You can find it in the second arrondissement of Paris: National Library of France (BnF) Richelieu. Library, yes, and you also have a small one next to it museum (a little more fun for tourists), a location for exhibitions, a garden, a bookstore and a café. But the library, which looks Harry Potter-esque with its large arches and gold ornaments, absolutely steals the show. And best of all? You can just go there for free. Ha!

Bibliothèque nationale de France (BnF) Richelieu - this is how you get in

Bibliothèque nationale de France (BnF) Richelieu - this is how you get in

There are two different entrances, namely via Rue de Richelieu and via Rue Vivienne. You just need to go through security to have your belongings screened and voileà. Good to know is that there are two rooms: one for which you need a (student) pass from a French university (so unless you have this pass, this room is not for you unfortunately ;)) and the other is freely accessible to everyone. 

The Oval Hall

The Oval Hall

This last room is also known as the Oval Room, and this is the absolute highlight of the location. We can assure you: you want to record this. 😉 In addition, the WiFi network here is public and free. With the 160 available places you can therefore perfectly study or work here.

Location

Location

58 Rue de Richelieu, 75002 Paris
5 Rue Vivienne, 75002 Paris

Monday Closed
Tuesday 10:00-20:00
Wednesday 10:00-18:00
Thursday 10:00-18:00
Friday 10:00-18:00
Saturday 10:00-18:00
Sunday 10:00-18:00

BnF Richelieu