How to Upload & Embed PDFs into Webflow?

Use Webflow Assets, PDF.js or Adobe Embed API, or embed via Google Drive.

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Embedding PDFs in Webflow is useful for sharing documents, brochures, case studies, and downloadable resources without directing users away from your site. While Webflow doesn’t have a built-in PDF upload feature, there are multiple ways to upload and embed PDFs effectively. This guide will walk you through how to add PDFs to your Webflow site using direct links, third-party tools, and embed codes.

Method 1: Uploading a PDF and Linking to It

The simplest way to add a PDF in Webflow is to upload it and create a direct link. This method is great for downloadable resources or reference documents.

Steps to Upload & Link a PDF in Webflow

1️⃣ Upload the PDF to Webflow Assets:

  • Open Webflow Designer and go to the Assets Panel (left sidebar).
  • Click Upload, then select your PDF file.
  • Once uploaded, click on the PDF to copy its direct URL.

2️⃣ Create a Link to the PDF:

  • Add a Button or Text Link to your page.
  • Set the link type to External URL.
  • Paste the PDF’s direct link from Webflow’s Asset Manager.
  • Click Save and publish your page.

📌 Best for: Downloadable resources, guides, whitepapers.

Method 2: Embedding a PDF with Google Drive

If you want the PDF to appear within the page (not as a download link), you can use Google Drive’s embed feature.

Steps to Embed a PDF Using Google Drive

1️⃣ Upload the PDF to Google Drive:

  • Open Google Drive, click New > File Upload, and select your PDF.

2️⃣ Make the PDF Public:

  • Right-click the PDF file, click Get Link, and set it to Anyone with the link can view.

3️⃣ Generate an Embed Code:

  • Open the PDF in Google Drive.
  • Click the three-dot menu > Open in New Window.
  • Click the three-dot menu again > Embed item.
  • Copy the iframe embed code provided.

4️⃣ Embed in Webflow:

  • Go to Webflow Designer and add an Embed element.
  • Paste the iframe code into the embed box.
  • Save and publish your page.

📌 Best for: Viewing PDFs directly on your webpage without downloads.

Method 3: Using an Online PDF Viewer (Adobe, PDF.js, or Embed.ly)

For a fully interactive PDF experience, you can use a third-party PDF viewer. There are also Webflow integrations that perform the same function.

Using PDF.js (Open-Source PDF Viewer)

1️⃣ Upload your PDF to an external host (Google Drive, Dropbox, Webflow Assets).
2️⃣ Add an Embed element in Webflow.
3️⃣ Use this code:

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<iframe src="https://yourpdfurl.com" width="100%" height="600px"></iframe>

📌 Best for: Embedding PDF files directly with zoom and scroll functionality.

Using Embed.ly or Adobe Embed API

  • Embed.ly and Adobe PDF Embed API allow more customization, including zoom, search, and annotation tools.
  • Requires API integration but provides better document control.

📌 Best for: Businesses needing interactive PDF functionality (e.g., legal documents, forms, catalogs).

Final Thoughts on Uploading & Embedding PDFs in Webflow

Depending on your needs, you can link, embed, or fully integrate PDFs into Webflow using different approaches:

✔️ For downloads → Use Webflow’s asset upload & link to the PDF.
✔️ For inline display → Use Google Drive’s embed feature.
✔️ For interactive PDFs → Use PDF.js or Adobe Embed API.

At MKTG DESK, we help businesses optimize their website, enhance user experience, and streamline digital document handling. Need assistance embedding PDFs seamlessly into your site? Contact MKTG DESK today!