Cruise Through Vienna - Discover, Dine & Relax

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Panoramic Views
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Frequent Departures
Sightseeing & Onboard Meal Options
Sightseeing & Onboard Meal Options
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Vienna boat tours | Explore Vienna from the Danube

Taking a cruise in Vienna feels like going on a journey through the heart of imperial Austria. Imagine gently drifting along the serene Danube River or the charming Danube Canal, with each turn revealing stunning historical landmarks and architectural marvels like the Millennium Tower, Uniqa Tower, and Rossauer Barracks. Whether you opt for a relaxing afternoon trip or a magical evening journey beneath the stars, every moment on the water offers a delightful mix of Viennese elegance and warm hospitality.

Navigate your Vienna boat tour guide

  1. Why go on a Danube cruise in Vienna?
  2. Things to know before booking your Vienna boat tour
  3. Your Vienna river cruise ticket options
  4. Find your best Vienna river cruise match here
  5. Vienna boat tour map
  6. Top sights to see on Vienna cruises
  7. Highlights of Vienna boat tour to Dürnstein
  8. Highlights of Vienna to Bratislava boat trip
  9. Discover Vienna's waterways: The Danube Canal and Danube River
  10. Boarding points of Danube Cruises from Vienna: Where the adventure begins
  11. Plan your Danube boat trip in Vienna
  12. Frequently asked questions about Vienna boat tours

Why go on a Danube cruise in Vienna?

Explore Vienna in comfort
Culinary delights
Live entertainment
Variety of cruise options
Magical sunset and evening views
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Explore Vienna in comfort

A cruise is the perfect option if you're looking for a relaxed way to see Vienna without navigating its busy streets. The boats are designed with your comfort in mind, featuring spacious seating and shaded areas for when you need a break from the sun. So, whether you're taking in the sights on a daytime sightseeing cruise or enjoying a romantic evening cruise, you can just sit back, relax, and let the stunning city views come to you.

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Culinary delights

Many cruises feature food and drink options, adding a culinary element to your experience. Enjoy Viennese delicacies on a daytime cruise, or savor a themed dinner with live music on an evening tour. This combination of sightseeing and dining enhances the overall enjoyment of your cruise.

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Live entertainment

Some cruises feature live music, fireworks, or themed entertainment, making the whole experience super lively and fun. Imagine enjoying classic Viennese tunes or even some modern hits while cruising and taking in the city's beautiful sights. It's like a mini-concert on the water!

Variety of cruise options

Vienna offers a range of cruise experiences, from casual sightseeing tours to themed evening events. You can choose a sunset cruise with a barbecue, a themed dinner cruise with live music, or a full-day trip to nearby towns like Dürnstein or Bratislava with all meals served onboard. Each option caters to different tastes and schedules, ensuring there's something for everyone.

Magical sunset and evening views

Evening cruises provide a beautiful perspective, showcasing Vienna's landmarks illuminated by city lights. Sunset cruises, in particular, offer a gorgeous view of the city transitioning from day to night, often accompanied by a barbecue or fireworks for a festive experience.

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Things to know before booking your Vienna boat tour

  • If you are looking for a short-duration cruise, the City Sightseeing Cruise on the Danube Canal lasts just 75 minutes. This is perfect if you're pressed for time but still want to enjoy the scenic views. The combo option with the ​hop-on hop-off bus tour also includes this 75-minute cruise, giving you a quick yet fulfilling experience on the water.
  • For entertaining Vienna River cruises, the Danube River Evening Themed Cruise is a fantastic pick. It's a themed dinner cruise with live music, and you can choose from a variety of fun themes like a Heurigen trip with Viennese songs, Strauss and Waltz on the Blue Danube, or even a 70s, 80s, 90s party cruise. There are also options like a Swedish Night with ABBA hits or a Greek Party. Each theme comes with a specially curated buffet menu that you can check out when booking.
  • Want to see more of the city? Consider combining ​the Danube sightseeing cruise with a hop-on hop-off bus tour. This combo lets you explore Vienna both by water and on land, hitting all the major sights at your own pace. You can also choose your bus pass validity (24, 48, or 72 hours) at the time of booking your ticket. This option doesn't include any meals during the cruise.
  • For a full day of adventure, take a Full-day Cruise from Vienna to Dürnstein or Bratislava. These trips are perfect if you want to explore more of the region without worrying about transportation. Just choose your destination when you book. The Dürnstein cruise includes a special menu and a 2-hour stop to explore the charming town on foot. If you opt for the ​Vienna to Bratislava boat trip, you'll get a different menu and a 4-hour stop to discover the city.
  • If you're looking to go on a standard Vienna cruise without any extra additions, the City Sightseeing Cruise on the Danube Canal or the Danube River Cruise is a perfect choice. You can keep it simple with just the cruise, or if you're feeling indulgent, you have the option to add some classic Viennese treats like Apple Strudel with a hot drink, Schnitzel, or even a full Viennese lunch. But that's totally optional. For evening vibes, there's an Evening Sightseeing Cruise on the Danube Canal, where you can opt for dinner – or just choose the basic cruise if you prefer to keep things light.
  • For culture enthusiasts and music lovers, the Vienna Danube Boat Tour with Dinner and a Schonbrunn Palace Concert is a great option. You'll be treated to music by Strauss during the cruise and then enjoy a full concert at Schönbrunn Palace. You'll have the option to select your preferred concert date and even choose your seat category (VIP, A, B, or C) at the time of booking.
  • Check out ​Vienna lunch cruises and ​Vienna dinner cruises if you are looking for a comprehensive cruise experience including meals. Different Danube river cruises in Vienna offer different dining experiences. Some include an option meal or two-course menu, while others feature a full buffet. Be sure to check the details and menu options when you're choosing your cruise to make sure it matches your preference!

Your Vienna river cruise options

Vienna sightseeing cruises

Sightseeing + lunch cruises

City Sightseeing Cruise on the Danube Canal with Optional Viennese Delicacies

This 75-minute Vienna boat cruise on the Danube Canal allows you to glide past landmarks like Uniqa Tower and Urania Observatory. Opt for additional Viennese delicacies or a 2-course lunch to enrich your experience while taking in the sights.

Grand Sightseeing Cruise on Danube River & Canal with Optional Viennese Delicacies

Glide along the serene Danube River, seeing riverside scenes and landmarks. Enjoy the option to include local treats for a taste of Vienna or opt for a 2-course lunch while enjoying the ever-changing scenery.

Panorama Cruise on Danube River with Optional Viennese Delicacies

Craving views and Viennese treats? This 2-hour Panorama Cruise on the Danube has you covered! Soak up stunning city sights and add on goodies like Schnitzel, Apple Strudel, or Sachertorte with a hot drink—because cruising tastes better with dessert.

Vienna sightseeing cruises
Danube River Cruise Vienna

Dinner cruises

Evening Sightseeing Cruise on the Danube Canal with Optional Dinner

Enjoy a 3-hour evening Vienna boat cruise along the Danube Canal to see beautifully illuminated landmarks. Add an optional dinner to make your nighttime cruise both scenic and satisfying.

Evening Themed Cruise on Danube River with Dinner & Live Music

Choose a theme of your choice from options like Heurigan Trip with Viennese Songs, Austropop, Greek Night, and more to enjoy a thoroughly entertaining evening cruise featuring a buffet dinner and live music based on your chosen theme.

Sunset Summer Cruise on Danube River with Barbecue

Opt for a sunset cruise featuring a barbecue buffet, perfect for a festive evening with striking views of Vienna's skyline.

Vienna dinner cruises
Danube River Cruise Vienna

Full day cruises

Bratislava or Dürnstein: Day Trip from Vienna on Danube River by Boat

For those with more time, a full-day cruise to Dürnstein or Bratislava offers extended exploration beyond Vienna. The journey offers beautiful countryside views, and you'll get some time to explore Dürnstein or Bratislava on foot too.

These Vienna boat trips on the Danube also include breakfast, lunch, snacks, strudel, and a buffet dinner, all freshly prepared and served onboard, so you can relax and enjoy the experience.

Vienna to Bratislava boat trip

Discover Vienna's waterways: The Danube Canal and Danube River

Vienna is home to two major waterways: the Danube River and the Danube Canal. The Danube River flows through Vienna and stretches across Europe, while the Danube Canal branches off from the main river and meanders through the city center, running parallel to the river. The river offers a broad expanse, while the canal is narrower and more urbanized, providing a close-up view of Vienna's contemporary architecture and bustling urban environment with waterside cafes, hangout spots, vibrant street art, and more.

Wien cruises offer different experiences on these waterways. Some cruises exclusively explore the canal, showcasing the city's modern and artistic sides, some explore the river, while others navigate both the canal and the river, providing a blend of urban sights and natural beauty.

Vienna boat tour map

Top sights to see on Vienna cruises

Ringturm

Ringturm

Ringturm is a prominent skyscraper along the Danube Canal housing various offices and often featuring large-scale artwork on its facade. Built in 1955, it offers a sharp contrast to Vienna's historic architecture and is a striking example of post-war design. Your Danube river cruise in Vienna will offer a perfect angle to appreciate its architectural beauty.

Danube River Cruise Vienna

Hundertwasser District Heating Plant

This waste incineration plant is a colorful and unconventional sight in Vienna. Designed by artist Friedensreich Hundertwasser, its quirky shapes and vibrant colors stand out against the cityscape. From the cruise, you'll see the plant's whimsical design, which turns a functional facility into a fascinating piece of art.

Danube River Cruise Vienna

Urania Observatory

The Urania Observatory, a historic educational institution, is another highlight. Its distinctive dome and Art Nouveau style make it an eye-catching landmark. From the cruise, you'll have a great view of this structure, which has been inspiring astronomers and visitors alike since the early 20th century.

Danube River Cruise Vienna

Uniqa Tower

Uniqua Tower is an unmissable sight on your Vienna boat trip. Its sleek, modern design and shimmering glass facade reflect the sunlight, creating a dazzling display that stands in sharp contrast to Vienna's historic architecture. The cruise offers a prime spot to appreciate this innovative architectural work.

Zaha-Hadid-Haus

Zaha-Hadid-Haus

Zaha-Hadid-Haus is a remarkable residential building designed by the famous architect Zaha Hadid. Its futuristic design and flowing lines make it stand out along the Danube Canal. Cruising past this building allows you to admire its innovative architecture up close.

Roßauer Kaserne

Roßauer Kaserne

The Rossauer Barracks, a historic military building, is a prominent sight along the Danube Canal with its distinctive red-brick design. It provides a fascinating contrast to the surrounding modern buildings, and the cruise offers a perfect vantage point to observe this historic site.

Badeschiff

Badeschiff

Cruise past the Badeschiff and witness Vienna's unique take on urban leisure. This floating pool and barge create a lively scene, with people lounging by the pool, sipping drinks, and enjoying the vibrant atmosphere right on the river.

Danube River Cruise Vienna

Schützenhaus

The Schützenhaus, designed by the renowned architect Otto Wagner, is an excellent example of Vienna's Art Nouveau style. Visible from the water, its detailed facade makes it one of those sights that really grabs your attention and makes you appreciate the city's artistic heritage.

Danube River Cruise Vienna

Danube Tower

Visible from afar, the Danube Tower is one of Vienna's tallest structures. From the river, you can see its sleek silhouette against the sky. Observing it from the water provides a unique angle and appreciation for its height and design.

Danube River Cruise Vienna

Millennium Tower

The Millennium Tower, another of Vienna's tallest buildings, is an impressive skyscraper. The sleek, modern design of the tower is impressive from any viewpoint, but seeing it from the river emphasizes its commanding presence over the cityscape.

Danube River Cruise Vienna

The Prater Area

The Prater area, often referred to as Vienna's 'green heart,' is a vast parkland that extends along the river. As you cruise by, you'll see its gorgeous greenery, winding wooded paths, and of course, the famous Giant Ferris. It is a refreshing sight amid Vienna's urban landscape.

Highlights of Vienna boat tour to Dürnstein

vienna boat trips on the danube

The skyline of Vienna

Vienna's skyline is a mesmerizing mix of history and modernity. From the majestic St. Stephen's Cathedral to the contemporary high-rises, the city's skyline tells a story of its evolving character. On a Danube river cruise from Vienna, you'll be treated to panoramic views of the beautiful cityscape, showcasing Vienna's unique charm and grandeur.

vienna boat tour
vienna city cruises
vienna cruise
vienna cruise to Dürnstein

Highlights of Vienna to Bratislava boat trip

vienna cruises

Bratislava Castle

As you approach Bratislava from the Danube, Bratislava Castle will dominate the skyline, perched majestically on a hill. The cruise offers a stunning perspective of the castle's architecture and its commanding position overlooking the city and the river.

vienna cruises
vienna cruises

Boarding points of Danube Cruises from Vienna: Where the adventure begins

City Cruises Vienna DDSG Blue Danube

Famous for: Saturday market, various shops, restaurants, and clubs, and the canal promenade serving as a social hub with pop-up bars, food stalls, and cultural events.

Nearest subway: Schwedenplatz

Marina Wien Yachthafen

Famous for: Views of the stunning Donaustadt Bridge, peaceful surroundings, a few cafes and fine dining restaurants nearby.

Nearest subway: Donaumarina

Marina Wien Yachthafen

Famous for: Cafes and restaurants offering views of the Danube Canal, a photo point at the Danube shore, and proximity to the St. Francis of Assisi Church.

Nearest subway: Vorgartenstraße

Plan your Danube boat trip in Vienna

boat cruise vienna
  • City Sightseeing Cruise on Danube Canal with Optional Viennese Delicacies: 11am, 1pm, 2:30pm, 4pm, and 5:30pm
  • Danube River Cruise with Optional Viennese Delicacies: 10:30am & 2pm
  • Evening Sightseeing Cruise on Danube Canal with Optional Dinner: 7pm
  • Danube River Evening-Themed Cruise with Dinner & Live Music:  7pm
  • Full-Day Danube Cruise to Dürnstein or Bratislava from Vienna: 8:30am
  • Sightseeing Cruise on the Danube River with Sunday Brunch and Live Music: 11am
  • Sunset Cruise in Vienna with Barbecue & Fireworks:  7pm
  • Combo (Save 8%): Danube Sightseeing Cruise + Vienna Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour: 11am, 1pm, 2:30pm, 4pm, 5:30pm
https://cdn-imgix.headout.com/media/images/424e0d65004f0db88e859fa0743d94c0-21260-vienna-vienna---blue-danube-waltz---boat-tour--dinner---concert-03.jpg
City Cruises Vienna DDSG Blue Danube

Address: Franz-Josefs-Kai 2, 1020 Wien, Austria | ​Find on map

Getting there: Take the tram1 to ​Schwedenplatz tram stop, the nearest tram stop to this boarding point, or board the #2A bus and alight at ​Schwedenplatz U, the nearest bus stop. The boarding point is just a 2-minute walk from both these stops.

Anlegestelle 07 or Handelskai 265

Address: Franz-Josefs-Kai 2, 1020 Wien, Austria | ​Find on map

Getting there: Take the tram1 to ​Schwedenplatz tram stop, the nearest tram stop to this boarding point, or board the #2A bus and alight at ​Schwedenplatz U, the nearest bus stop. The boarding point is just a 2-minute walk from both these stops.

Marina Wien Yachthafen

Address: Franz-Josefs-Kai 2, 1020 Wien, Austria | ​Find on map

Getting there: Take the tram1 to ​Schwedenplatz tram stop, the nearest tram stop to this boarding point, or board the #2A bus and alight at ​Schwedenplatz U, the nearest bus stop. The boarding point is just a 2-minute walk from both these stops.

Vienna River Cruise

Best time of the year: Each season brings a different charm to Wien cruises. In spring (April to June), you can enjoy pleasant weather and vibrant, blooming landscapes along the riverbanks. Summer (July to September) offers extended daylight hours, making it perfect for longer cruises. Autumn (October to November) features pleasant weather with colorful foliage, adding a picturesque touch to your boat trip in Vienna. Even in winter (December to March), the chilly air is offset by the enchanting holiday decorations and festive river scenes.

Best time of the day: A morning Vienna boat tour offers a peaceful start, with calm waters and fewer crowds. Mid-day cruises provide abundant sunlight, ideal for sightseeing. Sunset Vienna cruises are magical, bathing Vienna in golden light and offering perfect photo opportunities. Evening cruises create a romantic atmosphere, with city lights reflecting on the water and creating a stunning backdrop.

Wien cruises
  • Luxury boats with ample seating areas: Vienna cruises feature luxurious boats designed for comfort. Ample seating areas ensure you can relax and enjoy the views.
  • Open decks and covered areas: The cruise boats come equipped with open decks for those who enjoy the fresh air and covered areas for a more sheltered experience, making them suitable for any weather.
  • Luxurious dining spaces: If you choose a meal cruise, you'll dine in spacious and luxurious settings with large windows, providing excellent views as you enjoy your meal.
  • Professional crew: A professional and friendly crew is present on your boat trip in Vienna to ensure your experience is smooth and enjoyable.
  • Wheelchair and pram/stroller accessibility: Wien cruises are accessible for everyone, with facilities to accommodate wheelchairs and prams/strollers, ensuring comfort and convenience for all guests.
  • Pets & guide dog friendly: Vienna cruises welcome pets and guide dogs, making it a pet-friendly option for travelers who don't want to leave their furry friends behind.
Vienna River Cruise
  • Book tickets in advance: Vienna cruises are quite popular and can fill up quickly, so it's wise to book 2-3 weeks in advance to secure your spot.
  • Arrive early: Arrive at the boarding point 15-20 minutes before the departure to have plenty of time to board and settle in comfortably.
  • Check the menu: If you are booking a lunch or dinner cruise, make sure to take a look at the menu to ensure that they have options that cater to your dietary needs and preferences.
  • Bring binoculars: Binoculars will help you spot an array of bird species, including swans and ducks, along the Danube's banks, enhancing your sightseeing experience.
  • Familiarize yourself with the cruise route: Knowing what landmarks you will pass on your Danube Vienna cruise can help you choose the best side of the boat for the views you want.
  • Take precautions for motion sickness: Consider taking medication beforehand or opting for a shorter Wien cruise to minimize discomfort due to motion sickness.
Schifffahrt Wien
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