Alte Donau

Alte Donau Vienna Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Travel Guide

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

Alte Donau (Old Danube) is a remarkable urban lake in Vienna’s 22nd district, Donaustadt, reflecting the city’s harmonious balance between historical heritage, natural beauty, and vibrant recreation. Once a shifting arm of the Danube River, Alte Donau has evolved through centuries of river regulation and city planning into a tranquil oxbow lake. Today, it is one of Vienna’s top attractions for swimming, water sports, dining, and cultural events, accessible year-round and easily reached via public transport. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to plan your visit, including detailed information on Alte Donau visiting hours, ticketing, activities, travel tips, and highlights of its cultural and ecological significance (Vienna Trips; Vienna Guide; Time Travel Vienna).

U1 metro station Alte Donau in Vienna with modern platform and tracks

U1 station Alte Donau in Vienna 22 with modern train and platform

U1 Alte Donau station in Vienna with trains and platform

Map of U1-Station Alte Donau and surrounding area in Vienna 22

History and Transformation
Getting There & Accessibility
Visiting Hours and Ticket Information
Activities and Facilities
Dining and Refreshments
Events and Special Experiences
Practical Tips for Visitors
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Summary and Visitor Tips
References

History and Transformation

Originally a wild, meandering arm of the Danube, the area that is now Alte Donau was part of a vast, unpredictable floodplain. Repeated flooding and shifting river channels shaped Vienna’s relationship with the Danube for centuries, often threatening infrastructure and settlement (Environment & Society Portal; Wikipedia).

In the late 19th century, the Danube Regulation project (1870–1875) redirected the main river channel to prevent devastating floods, leaving behind the oxbow lake that we know today as Alte Donau (Vienna Trips; Visiting Vienna). This transformation laid the foundation for modern urban development and turned Alte Donau into a recreational hub, with its calm, clean waters quickly becoming a favorite spot for swimming, boating, and other leisure activities.

The area also played a pioneering role in Austrian water sports, hosting the country’s first sailing and rowing clubs in the late 19th century. Over the 20th and 21st centuries, environmental restoration and urban planning further enhanced Alte Donau’s ecological value and recreational appeal, balancing human use with biodiversity and water quality (City of Vienna).

Getting There & Accessibility

Public Transport:
Alte Donau is easily accessible via Vienna’s U1 subway line (Alte Donau and Kaisermühlen-VIC stations), connecting directly to the city center. Several bus lines (including 20A and 26A) and tram services serve the area as well (CheckVienna). Using public transport is highly recommended, especially during weekends and events, as parking is limited.

Cycling & Walking:
Well-maintained cycling and pedestrian paths ring the lake and connect to the broader Danube recreational network.

Accessibility:
Most promenades, parks, and lidos are wheelchair and stroller friendly, with paved, level surfaces and accessible entrances and changing facilities. Public transport stations near Alte Donau are equipped with elevators and ramps. For specific accessibility details at lidos or restaurants, it’s best to check ahead.

Visiting Hours and Ticket Information

General Access

Open Access: The lakeshore, public parks, and free bathing areas are accessible year-round, 24/7. There is no general entrance fee for simply visiting or swimming in the free zones.

Lidos and Public Bathing Areas

Gänsehäufel Lido: Open daily from early May to mid-September, typically 9:00 AM–7:00 PM. Entry fee: €5–€7 for adults, with discounts for children, seniors, and groups. (Vienna Trips)
Bundesbad Alte Donau: Similar hours and pricing structure; check the official website for seasonal updates.
Other Lidos: Angelibad, Strandbad Alte Donau, and more, with comparable hours and moderate entry fees.

Tickets for lidos can be purchased at the entrance or online via the City of Vienna website. Lifeguards are on duty at major swimming areas during opening hours.

Boat Rentals and Activity Centers

Seasonal Operation: Typically open from May–September, matching lido hours (9:00 AM until sunset). Rentals may close earlier in spring/autumn or during bad weather.
Pricing:
- Rowboats: from €18/hour
- Pedal boats: €20–22/hour (4 persons, some models with slides)
- Electric boats: €24/hour (4 persons)
- SUP & Kayaks: from €10–13/hour
- Sofa boats/floating islands: €49–65/hour (4–8 persons)
  (Meine Insel; Vienna City Beach Club)
Reservation: Advance booking recommended for weekends, special boats, and events.

Activities and Facilities

Swimming

Alte Donau is famous for its clean water, regularly rated as “excellent” in quality (Austrian Veganderlust). Public lidos offer amenities like changing rooms, showers, sunbathing lawns, sports facilities, and playgrounds. Free swimming is available at grassy banks and piers throughout the lake.

Water Sports

Boating: Multiple rental stations offer rowboats, pedal boats, electric boats, and specialty boats. Motorized boats are prohibited to maintain safety and tranquility.
Stand Up Paddling (SUP) & Kayaking: Several centers provide rentals, lessons, and guided tours. Group SUP boards and SUP yoga are available (Flotus).
Sailing & Surfing: The Vienna Sailing and Surfing School and other clubs offer courses and rentals for all skill levels (CheckVienna).
Wakeboarding: The Wake_Up cable park offers wakeboarding for ages 8+, with lessons and equipment available (Wake_Up).

Nature & Relaxation

Cycling/Walking: Flat pathways encircle the lake, perfect for walking, jogging, or biking. The area is ideal for birdwatching and photography, particularly at sunrise and sunset.
Parks & Picnics: Grassy banks and designated barbecue areas invite picnicking and relaxation. Check local signs for grilling regulations.

Family-Friendly Amenities

Most lidos feature playgrounds, splash zones, mini-golf, and organized children’s activities in summer. Lifeguards are present at main swimming areas.

Dining and Refreshments

Over 40 lakeside restaurants, cafés, and bars offer a variety of options:

Traditional Austrian: “Zur Alten Kaisermühle” – classic Viennese cuisine.
International & Modern: Beach bars, French-inspired “La Crêperie,” and “Strandcafé” with panoramic views.
Seasonal Terraces: Many venues provide outdoor seating directly by the water, ideal for sunset dining or drinks.

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends or during events (Vienna Trips).

Events and Special Experiences

Lichterfest (Festival of Lights)

Traditionally held in July, the Lichterfest features illuminated boats, live music, and fireworks. For 2025, the event at Alte Donau is cancelled due to new safety requirements, but a new concept is in development for 2026 (Vienna Guide; Alte Donau Events). Even on regular evenings, the lakeside ambiance and full moon boat rides create a magical setting.

Full Moon Rides & Candlelight Dinners

Special boat rides during full moon nights are popular for romantic outings, often including drinks or catering packages. Book in advance for these exclusive experiences (Alte Donau Events).

Sports and Community Events

Alte Donau regularly hosts sailing regattas, rowing competitions, open-air concerts, and seasonal festivals, adding to its lively community spirit (Insight Cities).

Practical Tips for Visitors

Best Season: May–September, with all services and activities in full swing. Early mornings and weekdays are quieter.
What to Bring: Swimwear, towels, sunscreen, hats, water shoes (for rocky areas), and picnic supplies.
Payment: Most rentals and restaurants accept cards, but carry cash for small purchases.
Weather: Check forecasts, as many activities are weather-dependent.
Safety: Life jackets provided with boat rentals. Swim in designated zones and supervise children.
Accommodation: Numerous hotels and guesthouses are within walking distance; book ahead in peak season (Vienna Wien).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the Alte Donau visiting hours?
A: The lakeshore and free areas are open 24/7 year-round. Lidos and activity centers typically operate May–September, 9:00 AM–7:00 PM (may vary by facility).

Q: Are there entrance fees or tickets required?
A: Public access is free. Entry fees apply only for lidos, pools, and some activities (generally under €10 for adults).

Q: Is Alte Donau accessible by public transport?
A: Yes, via U1 subway (Alte Donau or Kaisermühlen-VIC stations) and multiple bus/tram lines.

Q: Can I rent boats or water sports equipment without prior experience?
A: Yes, rentals are available for all skill levels. Lessons and guided tours are offered for SUP, sailing, and kayaking.

Q: Is Alte Donau wheelchair accessible?
A: Most promenades, parks, and major lidos are accessible; check directly with venues for specific features.

Q: Are motorized boats allowed?
A: No, to maintain a peaceful and safe environment, only non-motorized and electric boats are permitted.

Summary and Visitor Tips

Alte Donau stands as a testament to Vienna’s dedication to combining urban development, cultural heritage, and environmental stewardship. Its origins as a shifting river arm, subsequent transformation into an urban lake, and ongoing ecological restoration make it a model for sustainable recreation. Whether you’re interested in swimming, water sports, tranquil lakeside walks, or lively summer festivals, Alte Donau offers something for everyone.

Plan your visit by checking facility opening hours, booking popular activities in advance, and exploring nearby attractions such as Donauinsel, Vienna International Centre, and Prater Park. For up-to-date information, event schedules, and insider tips, consult the official visitor websites or download the Audiala app.

References and Further Reading

For the latest updates, event schedules, and more travel inspiration, download the Audiala app and follow us on social media. Enhance your experience with photos of Gänsehäufel beach, pedal boats at sunset, and highlights from seasonal festivals. Use internal links to explore related articles on Vienna’s historical sites and water sports.