Summer Activities in Vienna: What to Do, Where to Go & How to Enjoy the City
Summer in Vienna is full of energy, culture, and outdoor fun. Whether you’re new to the city or a long-time resident, the warm months invite you to explore parks, enjoy music festivals, and soak up the unique vibe of Vienna in the sun. Here’s a roundup of great things to do this summer!
Experience the Donauinselfest — Europe’s Largest Open-Air Festival
One of the biggest highlights of summer in Vienna is the Donauinselfest. This massive, free open-air music festival on the Danube Island attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors every year. With dozens of stages featuring local and international artists, food stands, and a buzzing atmosphere, it’s the perfect way to enjoy music, meet people, and celebrate summer. It usually takes place in June—mark your calendar!
Watch a Movie Under the Stars at Open-Air Cinemas
Vienna’s open-air cinemas are a summer tradition. Enjoy classic and recent films with the fresh evening breeze:
Rathausplatz Film Festival – a magical spot in front of City Hall, combining music, cinema, and food stands
Kino am Dach – watch movies on rooftops with a great city view
Film Festival at Donauinsel – films by the Danube, often with English subtitles
Bring a blanket and your favorite movie buddy!
Enjoy Water Sports and Beaches Along the Danube and Alte Donau
Vienna offers surprising options for water lovers:
Donauinsel – a long island with swimming spots, bike paths, and beach bars
Alte Donau – rent a paddleboat, kayak, or SUP (stand-up paddleboard) and explore the calm waters
Gänsehäufel – a public swimming spot with pools and access to the river
Don’t forget sunscreen and your swimsuit!
Explore the Prater — More Than Just the Giant Ferris Wheel
The Prater is a huge park with playgrounds, walking trails, and an amusement park with historic rides. Beyond the famous Ferris wheel, there are roller coasters, mini-golf, and seasonal markets—perfect for a fun day out.
Take Advantage of Free Museum Days
Several museums offer free admission on specific days, which is perfect for escaping the summer heat while still soaking up culture:
Wien Museum
Museum of Military History
Otto Wagner Pavilion
Check their websites for exact dates and plan a cultural afternoon.
Discover Vienna’s Summer Markets and Festivals
Vienna hosts many outdoor markets and festivals celebrating food, culture, and art:
Naschmarkt – explore fresh produce, international food stalls, and a lively atmosphere
Street Food Market (at places like Karlsplatz or the Brunnenmarkt) – sample dishes from all over the world
District festivals (Grätzlfeste) – neighborhood celebrations with live music, food, and community spirit
These events are perfect for tasting new foods and enjoying the local vibe.
Go for a Bike Ride Along the Danube or Through the City
Vienna is very bike-friendly, with many scenic routes perfect for summer rides. Try cycling along the Danube bike paths or exploring the city’s green corridors like the Vienna Woods.
Picnic in Vienna’s Green Spaces
Vienna is famous for its beautiful parks, perfect for a summer picnic or just relaxing with a book. Some favorites:
Stadtpark – known for its beautiful sculptures and the famous Johann Strauss monument
Augarten – peaceful, with wide lawns and historic buildings
Prater Park – large and lively, great if you want to combine a walk with fun rides on the giant Ferris wheel
Türkenschanzpark – a quieter spot with lovely gardens and ponds
Pack your favorite snacks, a blanket, and enjoy a sunny afternoon outdoors.
Summer in Vienna invites you to slow down, explore, and enjoy the outdoors. So grab your sunscreen, put on your walking shoes, and discover all that this vibrant city has to offer this season!
