Wild Swimming in Vienna

Wild Swimming in Vienna

High-res imagery available here.

When temperatures rise in Vienna, the city's waterways come alive, offering a serene, natural alternative to open-air pools. From bathing ponds to shaded riverbanks, Vienna is home to nearly 40 miles of wild swimming areas, many of them just a metro ride or bike journey away.

The Old Danube is a summer favourite, with jetties, floating platforms and reed-lined shores inviting locals and visitors alike to slow down. At Kaiserwasser, you’ll find calm tributaries perfect for a quiet dip, while the vibrant Copa Beach combines two sandy beaches, sports courts and casual dining for families on the go.

For a wilder edge, head to Strombucht, a peaceful stretch of shingle beach where the water slopes gently into the Old Danube. New bathing platforms introduced in 2023 offer safe access and plenty of space for sunbathing.

A little further along on Danube Island, Pirate Bay near the Donaustadt Bridge offers a laid-back sandy spot shaded by mature trees – ideal for reading, picnicking, or simply doing nothing at all. This newly developed swimming area has seen 3,500 m² of the New Danube’s banks covered in sand to make access to the water easier, while large trees provide natural shade.

Not far away, the Vienna City Beach Club has both a relaxed beach atmosphere and a party spirit. In summer, you can even rent beach volleyball courts and play late into the night.

Families flock to Hirschstetten bathing pond, where a dedicated children’s area and playground keep little ones entertained. Meanwhile, naturists quietly enjoy the seclusion of Dechantlacke in the Lobau, a protected national park where bathing is only permitted in a few places to preserve the delicate wetland ecosystem. Panozzalacke, with its shallow water and sunbathing lawn, is especially suited to younger families, and the local “Knusperhäuschen” snack stand serves up classic Viennese fare.

Many of Vienna’s natural swim spots are reachable by subway, with lines U1, U2 and U6 covering most of the city, but cyclists can make a day of it, pairing a scenic ride with a refreshing dip. No entry fees, no turnstiles – just nature, water and the occasional swan.

Things to remember:

• There are no lifeguards - be cautious and respectful.
• Bathing is free, but you’re expected to leave no trace.
• Water quality is monitored at eleven key sites and updated regularly.

Whether seeking shade under old trees or sunshine on a floating platform, Vienna’s natural bathing areas are an invitation to reconnect with water, with nature, and with the quieter pace of summer.

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Notes to editor  

For more information on Vienna, please visit www.wien.info/en    

For media and press enquiries please contact: vienna@lemongrassmarketing.com / +44 (0) 1865 237990   

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Editors notes

About Vienna Tourist Board  

Austria’s capital of Vienna is consistently ranked as the city with the highest quality of life for the 3rd consecutive year by The Economist Intelligence Unit, providing its residents, expatriates and visitors with high security, seamless public transportation, a wide variety of cultural and arts institutions, and a staggering 53% of the city serving as public green space. 

The Vienna Tourist Board, founded in 1955, is the official destination marketing service provider for the tourism sector of the city. It promotes the city worldwide and provides many services, tips, resources and information for Viennese businesses, residents and visitors.    

For further information, please visit www.b2b.vienna.info    

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