Am Hof is the largest square in the city. It is the former site of Roman camps and medieval jousting tournaments. It is lined with historic buildings and monuments, including the Märiensaule (Column of Our Lady), which dates from the 17th century; the palatial 18th century Markleinisches Haus; the Burgerliche Zeughaus, which is the old citizen's armory; and the Collalto Palace, where the six year old Mozart made his first public appearance.

The imperial court library became the Austrian National Library in 1920. The Prunksaal is the showpiece of the structure and the finest Baroque library in Europe. Paired marble columns frame the main room and bookcases line the walls. The collections consist of volumes from Prince Eugene's library, which was acquired during the early 18th century, and books removed from monastic libraries during the religious reforms of the later 1700's.

This public square is Vienna's oldest and was originally part of a Roman encampment. Ruins are visible under the market. During medieval days it served as a fish and cloth market and a popular execution spot. Completely refurbished following World War II, the square features the Nuptial Fountain and Ankerthur, a marvelous clock that links two office buildings. Every hour different historical cut-out figures, such as Marcus Aurelius, Charlemagne, Maria Theresa, and Franz Stefan, march in front of the clock accompanied by organ music.

Once a coal market, this pedestrian street leads to Hofburg. It is home to some of the most exclusive shops in Vienna, including the showroom of Thonet, whose shapely, black chairs, were created in the early 20th century and are pinnacles of Viennese design. A famous patisserie, Demel Konditorei, was founded in the late 18th century and is one of the city's most famous cafés.

St. Michael's Square faces the elaborate entrance into the Hofburg from Kohlmarkt. It was an important crossroads as early as Roman times and recent excavations have uncovered the remains of Roman and medieval foundations and drainage systems, along with the remnants of the old 17th century Burgtheater. Michaelerkrakt, the semi-circular façade or St. Michael's Wing, is located on the west end of the square.