Ice Skating in Austria
At an urban ice rink, on the lake, or surrounded by nature

Ice skating in Austria is a winter experience to remember. Whether in the city or on a frozen lake, glide across the ice and enjoy a fun day with friends!

Ice skating on a lake - oh, so romantic!

Austria’s natural ice rinks offer a magical experience! Glide across frozen lakes as the ice gently crunches beneath your blades, surrounded by snow-covered meadows or towering mountain peaks. Ice skating in Austria’s stunning nature is an experience not to be missed. Many natural ice rinks are easily accessible, with nearby parking and benches to put on your skates. Discover some of Austria’s best natural ice skating spots below.

Ice rinks in the city

Skating under spectacular lights at night, with music in the background, or even during summer on indoor ice rinks—Austrian cities have taken urban ice skating to the next level.

The Vienna Ice Dream is a must-see winter attraction. From January to March, the square in front of Vienna's City Hall turns into a massive 9,000 m² ice rink, perfect for skating lovers. There are four large rinks and winding paths through the beautifully lit City Hall Park, with the stunning City Hall and Burgtheater as your backdrop.

One special feature is the "Sky-Rink," an elevated rink that you can reach via a ramp. Before or after skating, warm up with punch or tea, and enjoy delicious Austrian food from outdoor vendors or the alpine hut. In the evening, the entire area lights up in a colourful display. The rink is open seven days a week, making it a winter experience you won’t want to miss.

Ice skating in the city

Attention!

Before you start skating, always ensure it’s safe to walk and skate on the natural ice rinks. Check the lake’s website for updates or contact the local tourist office for information. If there is no information available, please note that skating is at your own risk.

Ice skating in Carinthia

Ice skating on Lower Austria's lakes

Lake Lunzer See

The mountaineering village of Lunz am See, located in the southwestern part of Lower Austria, is home to the largest natural ice rink in the region, ideal for all ages. For safety, the temperature must drop well below freezing for several days before the rink opens. Once it does, 68 hectares of natural ice are available for skating. If you don't have your own skates, you can rent them at the nearby inn. For updates on ice conditions and weather, be sure to check their blog.

Moorbad Schrems

The Waldviertel region in Lower Austria enjoys below-average winter temperatures, ensuring its small, beautiful lakes will freeze during the colder months. The Moorbad in Schrems, a natural swimming pool that uses healing water from the nearby high moor in summer, transforms into a free ice skating rink during winter.

Lake Erlaufsee

Lake Erlaufsee, located partly in Lower Austria and partly in Styria, regularly freezes over in winter due to its shady location, making it a great spot for various ice sports – including ice diving for the more adventurous. Please note that the natural ice surface is not maintained, cleared of snow, or smoothed. Anyone walking or skating on the lake does so at their own risk!

Ice skating in SalzburgerLand

Lake Neusiedler See: A top natural ice rink in central Europe.

Ice skating in Upper Austria's nature

Ice skating in Tirol

Ice skating in Styria

Ice skating in Vorarlberg: Whether romantic or sporty, the choice is yours.

Climate Protection Tips

What's important when skating on lakes?

Lakes are vital habitats for animals and plants, making them particularly protected in Austria. A healthy lake system supports biodiversity and sustains aquatic life. Here's how we care for our lakes:

  • Respect designated protection zones for plants and animals.

  • Don't leave any rubbish on or around the lake.

  • Avoid using the lake or its shores as a toilet.

  • Don’t feed fish or birds—leftover food adds unnecessary nutrients.

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