Vienna, unlike many European capitals, has a famous amusement park known as the Prater.
It is one of the most visited spots in the Austrian capital and is recognized as part of the list of the world’s oldest amusement parks.
Located in the heart of the city, in Leopoldstadt (Vienna’s 2nd district), its central position ensures excellent transport connections.
NOTE: If you’re planning to ride the Prater Ferris Wheel and explore four other landmarks in the city, the best option is to get the Flexipass card at this link. This pass allows access to five of Vienna’s top sites (the Ferris Wheel, Schönbrunn Zoo, Sisi Museum, Upper Belvedere, Beethoven Museum, Madame Tussauds, Danube Tower, etc.).
What to See and Do in Vienna’s Prater?
The Prater, also known as the Volksprater, is not only an iconic amusement park but also features vast green spaces perfect for walking or cycling.
It’s one of the most popular recreational spots for both Viennese locals and visitors to the Austrian capital.
If you’re looking to enjoy the outdoors, exercise in open spaces, unwind, and enjoy fun rides, the Prater Park in Vienna is your ideal destination.
A standout feature within the park is the main avenue, Hauptallee, a street lined on both sides with beautiful, large, leafy trees.
This avenue serves as the main route connecting the city to the park and is a meeting point for sports enthusiasts, as it hosts Vienna’s annual marathon.
The avenue even has its own miniature railway system for easy travel within the park.
The park also includes a museum and a planetarium and is home to the Giant Ferris Wheel, one of Vienna’s most iconic symbols of entertainment.
Giant Ferris Wheel
The Giant Ferris Wheel is perhaps the most significant mechanical attraction in the park.
Rising into the sky at about 65 meters in height, it offers breathtaking panoramic views from its highest point, a view that many find unforgettable.
This beautiful landmark of the Austrian capital has withstood the test of time.
It was built in 1897 under Emperor Franz Joseph’s reign and has survived wars and natural disasters alike.
The Giant Ferris Wheel not only witnessed parts of World War I but also became a target during bombing raids at the end of World War II.
Much of it was left in ruins, but it was later rebuilt—though not fully restored.
Of the 30 cabins present at its inauguration, only half remained repairable after the war, so post-conflict restorations could only recover 15 wagons.
Today, the Ferris Wheel in Vienna stands as a symbolic icon of the city, and you can easily enjoy a ride by making an online reservation here for just 14 euros. Alternatively, you can book a spot for a scenic tour on an open-top bus that includes entry to the Ferris Wheel (reserve your place here).
What makes this attraction even more intriguing is the option to rent out cabins—for a romantic dinner or a fun gathering with friends.
Other Attractions
If you visit this lively amusement park in Vienna, be sure not to miss these additional attractions:
The Liliput Train
A unique experience immersing you in a world of technology, this quick 20-minute train ride offers entertainment for adults and children alike.
Prater Museum
Showcasing a collection of paintings, posters, signs, and photographs, the museum reveals the former “Wurstelprater” park. It offers a fascinating look at what the amusement park was like before the war.
Radverleih Roller Coaster
This roller coaster takes you through a landscape capturing the spirit of the Danube metropolis. While it’s one of the oldest roller coasters in the world and not particularly thrilling, its vintage charm makes it one of Prater’s most interesting attractions.
Planetarium
A spectacular, modern facility where you can fully enjoy the beauty of the night sky. It’s not only perfect for viewing various astronomical events, but it also boasts the most advanced star projector in Austria’s capital.
The Schweizerhaus
This popular culinary spot features lovely gardens. Here, you’ll have the chance to savor the famous pork knuckle (Stelze) or crispy potato pancakes (Kartoffelpuffer).
Relax with an authentic Budweiser beer under the shade of the trees.
The Prater’s variety of attractions, from thrill rides to cozy dining spots, offers something for everyone, whether you’re after excitement or relaxation.
Additionally, it’s considered by many to be one of the Prater’s most legendary dining spots.
Exploring the Green Area of the Prater
As we mentioned earlier, this amusement park in Vienna not only features fun rides and food stands.
A large portion of the Volksprater is made up of green areas that are perfect for strolling or organizing outings.
Venturing into this area means embracing a relaxing atmosphere that brings you closer to nature.
This side of the Prater is perfect for picnics, set within a green space that spans around 600 hectares, making it one of the most beautiful urban parks in the world.
It includes wooded areas, ideal for hiking, beautiful grassy meadows, and several water features.
Additionally, the park’s main avenue (Hauptallee) is perfect for bike rides or walking tours.
In fact, it’s an interesting and enjoyable way to explore the park’s green spaces. Both sides of this street are lined with rows of old trees that give the Prater a unique and charming character.
Tips for Enjoying the Prater to the Fullest
The Volksprater is one of the most iconic parks in Europe.
We recommend bringing sportswear and a good camera to capture memorable moments.
It’s best to visit the green area of the Prater in the summer season, as it’s considered the ideal time to fully appreciate and enjoy its natural surroundings.
If your Vienna tour is a family outing, rest assured that the little ones will love this unique park.
Prices and Hours for Vienna’s Amusement Park
Entry to the Volksprater is completely free. However, if you want to enjoy mechanical rides such as the Giant Ferris Wheel, you can use the paid service Vienna Pass.
In terms of hours, you can visit the Prater from March 15 to October 31 every day from 10:00 AM until 1:00 AM.
However, shops, restaurants, and some attractions, like the Giant Ferris Wheel, remain open all year round.
How to Get to the Prater?
Located in Vienna’s 2nd district, getting there is quick and efficient from St. Stephen’s Cathedral.
Currently, there are three practical, easy, and affordable ways to reach the Prater:
- Taking the Vienna metro with Lines U1 and U2, stopping at Praterstern.
- Riding Tram Line 5, also stopping at Praterstern.
- Using Bus Line 80A and getting off at Praterstern.
If you still have trouble finding it, here is the tourist map of Vienna to help you navigate the area better.
The Prater Park in Vienna is truly a must-see if you’re planning to explore this Austrian city.