Haus des Meeres
Haus des Meeres: A Unique Aquarium Experience in Vienna
Leitturm Esterhazypark: A Towering Transformation
Explore Vienna's WWII flak tower turned aquarium, offering panoramic city views and a unique blend of history and marine life.
The Leitturm Esterhazypark, a former WWII anti-aircraft tower, now serves as the foundation for the Haus des Meeres aquarium in Vienna's Mariahilf district. This massive concrete structure offers a unique blend of history and marine life, with stunning city views from its rooftop.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Leitturm Esterhazypark
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
Fritz-Grünbaum-Platz, Vienna, Mariahilf, 1060, AT
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Getting There
Public Transport
Esterházypark is easily accessible via Vienna's public transport system. Take the U3 subway line to the Neubaugasse station, which is a short walk from the park. Alternatively, several bus lines (13A, 14A, 57A) stop directly at the Haus des Meeres station, right next to the park. A single ticket for Vienna's public transport costs €2.40 and is valid for one journey, even with changes.
Walking
From Mariahilfer Straße, Vienna's main shopping street, walk south towards the Haus des Meeres. The park is located directly behind the building. From the MuseumsQuartier, walk along Museumstraße and turn right onto Mariahilfer Straße, then follow the directions above. The walk is approximately 15-20 minutes. No costs involved.
Driving
If driving, be aware that parking in the area is limited and subject to short-term parking zone regulations. Parking tickets cost €1.30 per 30 minutes. Consider using the WIPARK garage on Windmühlgasse, where visitors to the Haus des Meeres can park at a reduced rate. Remember to validate your parking ticket at the Haus des Meeres ticket office to receive the discount. Daily parking rates at WIPARK garages typically range from €25-€35.
Local tips
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Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the best light for photography.
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Take a walk around Esterhazypark to appreciate its beauty and historical context.
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Check for local events or exhibitions happening in the park.
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Bring a picnic to enjoy in the park's relaxing atmosphere.
Discover more about Leitturm Esterhazypark
Leitturm Esterhazypark is a unique landmark in Vienna, originally constructed as a flak tower during World War II. Built between 1942 and 1944 under Nazi Germany's orders, the tower was designed to defend against Allied air raids and provide shelter for civilians. Today, it is home to the Haus des Meeres (House of the Sea), an aquarium housing over 10,000 animals.The transformation of the Leitturm into the Haus des Meeres began in 1957, and it opened to the public in 1958. The building's walls are 2.5 meters thick, and the uppermost ceiling is 3.5 meters thick. In 2013, a new roof superstructure was added, including a shark tank, a café, and a rooftop terrace offering panoramic views of Vienna. The outside of the tower also features a 700 square meter climbing wall.The Leitturm is a striking example of adaptive reuse, blending history, architecture, and biodiversity. It serves as a reminder of Vienna's wartime past while providing a space for education and conservation.
A brief summary to Leitturm Esterhazypark
Use Leitturm Esterhazypark as your starting point for nearby food, family ideas, nightlife, and more local discoveries.
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