Vienna for Water Lovers: Where to Swim, Paddle & Chill by the Water

One exceptional side of Vienna is its easy access to beaches and lakes

Think Vienna is all about palaces and coffeehouses? Think again. When the temperatures rise, the city becomes a paradise for swimmers, paddlers, and anyone who just wants to relax by the water.

From river beaches and outdoor pools to boat rentals and island bike paths, here’s your guide to the best spots in Vienna for water lovers. Pack your swimsuit and sunscreen — you’re going to want them.
 

1. The Danube: Vienna’s Urban Playground

The Danube River cuts through Vienna like a blue ribbon — and it’s not just for show. Locals swim in it, cycle beside it, barbecue next to it, and cruise along it. The two most popular areas to dive in:

• Donauinsel (Danube Island): Stretching 21 km, this island is the city’s go-to spot for biking, swimming, beach volleyball, and spontaneous BBQs. Bring your own grill or buy snacks at one of the kiosks. Keep an eye out for Sauwasser—an unofficial naturist section tucked in the trees.
• Alte Donau (Old Danube): A calm, lake-like oxbow perfect for SUP, rowing, pedal boats, or swimming. The water is shallow near the grassy banks, and there are several floating piers you can jump from or sunbathe on.

There’s no entry fee for swimming, but pay attention to signs — some spots are boat-only zones. If you want an easy dip, try the area near the Alte Donau U-Bahn station (U1), where locals leave their towels all day and conveniently grab coffee from nearby kiosks.
 

2. Vienna’s Outdoor Swimming Pools (Freibäder)

If you prefer pools, Vienna delivers with clean, affordable, and designed-for-fun facilities:

• Gänsehäufel: Introduce Vienna’s largest public water park: sandy beaches, sun terraces, a wave pool, volleyball courts, and shady pine groves. Don’t miss the snack shack “Imbiss Drunter & Drüber” for bratwurst and fries.
• Stadthallenbad & Schönbrunner Bad: Ideal for lap swimmers. Schönbrunner Bad sits right next to the palace gardens — a luxurious swim-and-sightseeing combo.
• Krapfenwaldlbad: At the edge of the Vienna Woods, this pool offers a hillside view, long pools, slides, and a wooded walking trail that leads right to the water.

Pro tip: Arrive before 10 AM on weekends to get a sunbed or grassy spot before locals do. Entry is generally around €6.
 

3. Rowing, Paddleboarding & Boating

If you’re in the mood to move, the Old Danube is your playground. Most rental stations offer:

• SUP boards & kayaks — ideal for beginners
• Pedal boats and small electric boats — no license required
• Rowboat rentals from intimate docks surrounded by trees, perfect for sunset glides

Another option: paddle through the Danube Canal near Schwedenplatz or Urania. It’s mellow in the evening and offers a peaceful alternative to the tourist-packed city centre.
 

4. The Wild Side: Natural Swimming Spots

Want peace and isolation? Explore:

• Lobau: Part of the Donau-Auen National Park, with oxbow lakes like Dechantlacke for remote, silent swims surrounded by wildlife.
• Neue Donau: A gentle offshoot of the river — less current and plenty of green banks for picnicking and dips.
• Heustadlwasser (Prater): Near Praterstern, this small lake is perfect for a quick cool-down after a ride on the Ferris wheel.

Insider note: Swim early on weekdays for emptier waters and free parking near Lobau on weekends.
 

5. Floating Bars & Riverside Relaxation

The water scene isn’t always about swimming—sometimes it's about sitting by the water with a drink in hand:

• Strandbar Herrmann: Mirrored deck chairs, DJs on weekends, and a laid-back atmosphere on the Danube Canal.
• Tel Aviv Beach: Sandy floor, string lights, and Mediterranean snacks for an urban beach feel.
• Badeschiff: A floating public pool that lets you swim right in the canal with a snack bar aboard.

Bring your own: Bottle of wine or snacks + a blanket = instant riverside hangout (legal and low-key peaceful after sunset).

Need More Summer Inspiration?

Between May and September, Vienna buzzes with outdoor concerts, film nights, and pop-up water events. For the full scoop, check the Vienna events calendar — you might catch a floating cinema or DJ set on the water.