Cool Spots for Hot Summer Days
Here, you'll find the best places to cool down and refresh in Vienna:
Natural bathing spots
Dive into summer right in the heart of the city: Vienna is home to numerous natural bathing spots perfect for cooling off on hot days. Whether it’s the calm shores of the Old Danube, the spacious Danube Island, or the idyllic Kaiserwasser – you’ll find refreshing escapes right in the middle of town. The Lobau, with its ancient trees and direct access to the water, offers a true sense of nature within the urban landscape.
Vienna offers a total of 63 kilometres of free access to natural bathing waters. Water quality at these spots is regularly monitored at eleven sites, with the results published for the public.
Parks and gardens
Vienna is one of the greenest cities in Europe – nearly half of its area is made up of parks, gardens and woodlands. From grand grounds like Schönbrunn Palace Park and the Burggarten to peaceful oases such as Türkenschanzpark or the Botanical Garden by Belvedere Palace, there are countless places to relax, take a stroll or simply breathe. Vienna’s green spaces are also perfect for a picnic – right in the city, yet close to nature.
Summer scene on the Danube Canal
There’s no better place to spend a balmy summer evening than along the Danube Canal. Cool beats, chilled drinks and a culinary journey from oriental street food to juicy burgers – with or without meat – await. Add to that the unique waterside vibe, surrounded by colourful lights, street art, landmarks and a laid-back atmosphere. Come hungry, grab a seat, sample your way through the offerings and simply go with the flow.
Rooftop bars
Summer above Vienna’s rooftops feels like a mini holiday. Rooftop bars like Dachboden at the 25hours Hotel, Aurora at the Andaz, or Lamée Rooftop offer stunning views, creative cocktails and a relaxed vibe – right in the city, yet a world away from the hustle and bustle. Whether at sunset or under the stars.
Cultural retreats
Vienna is full of places where culture and tranquillity go hand in hand. The courtyards of the MuseumsQuartier invite you to linger, while the Lainzer Tiergarten blends nature with history – home to the Hermesvilla, once Empress Elisabeth’s retreat. The Steinhof grounds with Otto Wagner’s church offer peace and panoramic views. And in the Vienna Woods, the area known as Am Himmel is home to the Tree of Life circle and the Sisi Chapel.