Prater, Vienna Travel Guide

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Experience Vienna's iconic amusement park and green space: Thrilling rides, historical charm, and natural beauty await at the Prater.

The Prater is a large public park in Vienna, combining an amusement park (Wurstelprater) with extensive green spaces. Home to the iconic Wiener Riesenrad (Giant Ferris Wheel), it offers a mix of thrilling rides, historical charm, and natural beauty, making it a beloved destination for locals and tourists alike.

A brief summary to Prater

Vienna, Leopoldstadt, 1020, AT
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From Eve

Know before you go

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

Explore beyond the rides! Take a walk or bike ride along the Prater Hauptallee to experience the park's natural beauty.
Consider purchasing a Pratercard for contactless payments at participating attractions and restaurants.
Check the opening hours of individual attractions, especially during the off-season (November to mid-March).
Try traditional Viennese cuisine at one of the many restaurants and beer gardens in the park.
Visit the Prater in the evening to see the Giant Ferris Wheel and other attractions illuminated.

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Explore Prater on the Map

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

Getting There

Public Transport

The Prater is easily accessible via Vienna's efficient public transport system. The main access point is Praterstern station, served by subway lines U1 and U2, as well as tram lines O and 5, and bus lines 5B, 80A, and 82A. From Praterstern, it's a short 3-minute walk to the Riesenradplatz, the main entrance to the amusement park. A single public transport ticket costs €2.20.
Walking

From central locations like Schwedenplatz, you can take a pleasant walk to the Prater via the Prater Hauptallee. The walk is approximately 3.1 km and takes around 36 minutes. Follow the signs towards Praterstern and the Riesenrad.
Taxi/Ride-Share

Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available throughout Vienna. A short taxi ride from the city center to the Prater typically costs between €7 and €9 and takes about 6 minutes. Specify Riesenradplatz as your destination for the main entrance.
Parking

If driving, several parking garages are available near the Prater. The closest options include Garage Prater-Ausstellungsstraße and Parkplatz Prater-Waldsteingartenstraße. Parking fees vary, with hourly rates around €2.90 and daily rates around €19.90. Metered parking is also available on the street, Mon-Fri (workdays) from 9:00-22:00. Payment can be made using parking tickets purchased at tobacconists or gas stations.

Discover more about Prater

Vienna's Prater is more than just an amusement park; it's a vibrant blend of entertainment, history, and nature. Dating back to the 16th century, it was once an imperial hunting ground for the Habsburgs before Emperor Joseph II opened it to the public in 1766. This marked the beginning of its transformation into a recreational area for all Viennese citizens.The Wurstelprater, the amusement park area, officially established in 1766, is packed with over 250 attractions, including roller coasters, carousels, ghost trains, and modern thrill rides. The Giant Ferris Wheel (Wiener Riesenrad), constructed in 1897, stands as one of Vienna's most iconic symbols, offering panoramic views of the city from its 65-meter height.Beyond the Wurstelprater lies the "Green Prater," a vast expanse of meadows, forests, and river paths. This green oasis provides a peaceful escape from the urban bustle, inviting visitors to stroll, bike, or simply relax. The Prater Hauptallee, a 4.5-kilometer main avenue lined with 2,500 chestnut trees, is perfect for a leisurely walk or bike ride.The Prater has a rich history, having hosted the World Exhibition in 1873 and undergoing significant reconstruction after suffering damage during World War II. Today, it remains a place where visitors can immerse themselves in Viennese culture, enjoy traditional Austrian snacks, and experience a unique blend of nostalgia and modern entertainment.