Alte Donau, Vienna Travel Guide

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Escape to Vienna's Alte Donau: A lakeside paradise offering swimming, boating, dining, and relaxation in a picturesque setting.

The Alte Donau (Old Danube) is a charming oxbow lake in Vienna, a remnant of the Danube River's former course. Separated from the main stream in the late 19th century, it has transformed into a beloved recreational area offering swimming, boating, dining, and relaxation amidst a picturesque setting.

A brief summary to Alte Donau

Vienna, AT

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Alte Donau.

Take the U1 subway line to the 'Alte Donau' station for direct access to the heart of the recreational area.
Enjoy free swimming at popular spots like Romaplatz and Rehlacke.
Rent a boat for a relaxing tour of the Alte Donau; pedal boats, electric boats, and rowing boats are readily available.
Visit the Strandbad Gänsehäufel for a full day of activities, including swimming, sports, and sunbathing.
Explore the Wasserpark at the western tip of Alte Donau for a quiet walk and birdwatching.

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Explore Alte Donau on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Alte Donau, mapped for you.

Getting There

Public Transport

From Stephansplatz in central Vienna, take the U1 subway line towards Leopoldau. The ride to the 'Alte Donau' station takes approximately 9 minutes. A single ticket costs €3. From the station, it's a short walk to the Alte Donau's main recreational areas.
Taxi/Ride-Share

A taxi or ride-share from central Vienna (e.g., Stephansplatz) to Alte Donau typically takes 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic. Expect to pay around €15-€25 for the ride. Note that parking near Alte Donau can be limited, especially during peak season.
Walking

If you're near the Danube Tower or the Vienna International Centre (VIC), you can walk to Alte Donau. From the VIC, follow Wagramer Strasse northeast, then turn left onto Donaupark. Continue towards the lake. The walk is approximately 20-30 minutes. There are no tolls or specific access fees for pedestrians.

Discover more about Alte Donau

The Alte Donau, or Old Danube, is more than just a body of water; it's a vibrant part of Vienna's identity. Once the main channel of the Danube, it was separated during river regulation projects in the late 1800s to control flooding. This transformation created a sprawling 1.6 square kilometer lake, now a haven for leisure and recreation.Today, the Alte Donau offers a diverse range of activities. Numerous public and private lidos (bathing areas) dot its banks, providing easy access for swimmers. Boat rentals are plentiful, with options ranging from pedal boats and rowing boats to electric boats, perfect for a leisurely exploration of the calm waters. The Gänsehäufel, a popular island lido, boasts a sandy beach, swimming pools, sports facilities, and even a naturist zone.Beyond the water, the Alte Donau is lined with restaurants, cafes, and bars, many featuring gardens and outdoor seating. Lakeside paths invite walkers and cyclists to enjoy the scenery, while grassy areas offer space for picnics and relaxation. The Alte Donau is easily accessible by Vienna's efficient public transportation system, making it a convenient escape from the city center. Whether you're seeking a refreshing swim, a scenic boat ride, or simply a tranquil spot to unwind, the Alte Donau provides a delightful waterside experience in the heart of Vienna.