Vienna in Summer – Amazing Things to Do!
Are you planning on visiting Vienna in Summer and wondering about what there is to do? Then you are not alone!
Summer is one of the best seasons in Vienna. The vibrant city is full of architectural highlights, Open-Air-Concerts and hip bars and restaurants with outside seating.
I grew up in Austria and I have spent many summers in Vienna. Not knowing the lay of the land, it can be hard to find the best activities and most fun things to do.
For this reason, I have created this ultimate guide to the best things to do in Vienna in the summer!
Let’s get to it!
Table of Contents
- What You Need to Know About Vienna Before You Go
- Why Visit Vienna in Summer?
- The Weather in Vienna in Summer
- Where to Stay in Vienna in Summer
- How to get around Vienna
- Best Things to Do in Vienna in Summer
- 1. Stroll through the historic center of Vienna
- 2. Explore Schönbrunn Palace and the Zoo
- 3. Take Part in a Guided Bike or Walking Tour
- 4. Go to an Open-Air Concert
- 5. Visit Vienna City Beach
- 6. Have a Snack at the Naschmarkt
- 7. Head over to Kahlenberg – Best Spot in Summer in Vienna
- 8. Check Out Vienna Prater
- 9. Hang Out in One of Vienna’s Beautiful Parks
- 10. Go on a Small Road-Trip in Summer from Vienna
- 11. Book a Day-Trip
- 12. Visit the Spanish Riding School
- 13. Ride the Fiaker Around Town
- 14. Visit a Rooftop Bar or a Traditional Tavern for Austrian Wine
- 15. Visit the Danube Island
- Important Holidays and Events in Summer in Vienna
- Conclusion: Summer in Vienna
- FAQ: Summer in Vienna
- About the Author
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What You Need to Know About Vienna Before You Go
Vienna is the capital of Austria and one of the oldest cities in Europe. Vienna has a long and complex history, visible at every corner of the city. It’s home to many cultural, architectural, and historical landmarks.
But beyond its rich heritage, Vienna also has many parks and gardens. The city is also known for its vibrant nightlife scene. There are plenty of trendy bars, clubs, and cafes to explore after dark.
Vienna is an amazing destination for those looking for a blend of modern fun combined with traditional culture. The city is very clean, safe, and well-organized.
I would rate Vienna as one of Europe’s must-visit cities!
Why Visit Vienna in Summer?
Summer is the best time to visit Vienna. Warmer days and longer nights make it the perfect time to explore the city and enjoy relaxed evenings eating outside and having some fun.
The city is also filled with green parks and gardens, where you can enjoy a picnic or simply take in the fresh air. Also, the cultural scene in Vienna comes alive during the warmer months. Many music festivals and live concerts are happening all around town. Art exhibitions and outdoor cinemas pop up on every corner – there are so many things to do in Vienna in Summer.
During the summer, you can also enjoy all sorts of outdoor activities. Because the Danube flows right through the city, you can even do all kinds of water sports. It is also possible to go hiking or cycling in the nearby hills.
Summer is the peak tourist season in Vienna, so it’s a great time for sightseeing. There are plenty of museums to explore as well as historic buildings to see from the outside.
The Weather in Vienna in Summer
Overall, the weather in summer is mild, with temperatures ranging from 16-25°C (60-77°F) during the day. The Vienna summer temperatures are rarely dropping below 12°C (54°F). This means you can comfortably wander the streets of Vienna without getting too hot or cold.
- In June, Vienna experiences warm temperatures that usually range between 15 and 25°C (59 and 77°F). There are many sunshine days in June. On some days there might be some light showers.
- July is the time for hot summer days, with temperatures ranging from 22 to 32°C (72 to 90°F). Most days are dry and sunny. Sometimes there are afternoon thunderstorms, but they rarely last long.
- August brings more of the same, with temperatures from 18 to 28°C (64 to 82°F). The nights are getting slowly a bit colder in August.
- In September, Vienna sees temperatures usually ranging from 12 to 24°C (54 to 75°F). Many days are still sunny. The amount of rainfall also increases a bit, so there is a chance of clouds.
I suggest visiting in June or September. The city is a bit quieter, but the temperatures are still very nice. If you like the hustle and bustle of the city, July and August are also great options.
Where to Stay in Vienna in Summer
The best place to stay in Vienna is in the City Center. Everything is within walking distance, and there is no need to crawl into the overheated metro.
We usually stay in one of these two hotels when going to Vienna. Both are super luxurious and located in the best parts of Vienna.
Steigenberger Hotel Herrenhof
Steigenberger Hotel Herrenhof is located right on the most expensive and historic street in Vienna, the Herrengasse.
The impressive 5-star hotel is only a few steps away from the most famous buildings in Vienna. You can conveniently reach everything by walking.
The rooms are fabulous and super spacious, decorated in a 21st-century Art-Deco style. We enjoyed the cozy beds and our two (!) balconies overlooking the historic quarters of Vienna.
Le Meridien Vienna
Le Meridien is a design hotel located right next to the Opera House of Vienna. It is situated in the heart of Vienna, close to major shopping streets and many historic buildings.
The rooms are spacious and modern. The 5-star hotels’ motto is art, design, and culture – and you can feel it in every little detail.
The breakfast consists of an amazing spread and can be taken in a lovingly designed restaurant. You can access the hotel’s swimming pool if you need to cool off a bit. Make sure to visit their restaurant and bar for a lovely meal and a delicious cocktail in the evening.
How to get around Vienna
Vienna International Airport (VIE) is located southeast of the city. It can be reached within 20 minutes by car or taxi. There are many taxis available at the Arrivals hall of VIE.
Alternatively, you can take the train from the airport which runs every 30 minutes. The train station is on the lowest level of the airport building, so that is super convenient.
Make sure to take the regular OEBB trains, instead of the CAT trains. They run on the same lines but are much cheaper. It takes about 25 minutes to get to Vienna Hauptbahnhof.
You can also pre-book airport pickup services. This is an easy and convenient way, especially if you have more luggage.
In the Inner City of Vienna, you can walk to almost all the attractions. If needed, the subway and metro lines can easily and cheaply take you anywhere.
Best Things to Do in Vienna in Summer
1. Stroll through the historic center of Vienna
The historic city center of Vienna is one of the most beautiful places to visit in the summertime. It’s an absolute delight to explore the winding streets and marvel at the grand architecture.
The city center is home to some of Vienna’s most iconic structures, including St. Stephen’s Cathedral, Hofburg Palace, City Hall, and the Spanish Riding School.
The cobblestone-lined streets of the Old Town (Altstadt) are the perfect place for a leisurely summer stroll. You can sample traditional Austrian delicacies from local cafes or have a Spritzer (white wine with sparkling water) on one of the terraces.
You can also take a (private) walking tour through the city center with a guide and learn all about the history of Vienna.
2. Explore Schönbrunn Palace and the Zoo
Schönbrunn Palace is the former imperial residence of the famous empress Sisi. It was built in the mid-1700s and displays an impressive baroque design.
There are more than 1,441 rooms, and most of them are open to visitors. Inside the castle you can find many different exhibitions, showcasing the life of Empress Sisi and others.
The castle is surrounded by sprawling gardens. With vibrant blooming flowers, lush green meadows, and spectacular fountains the gardens are my favorite place in the castle.
You can visit the Gloriette Terrace for magnificent views of the city. It is a bit of a hike, but the view is well worth it. There is also a cafe in the Gloriette, where you can refresh yourself with a glass of wine.
The Schönbrunn Zoo is also a must-visit attraction in Vienna. It is the oldest zoo in the world. There are over 700 different animals to see, my favorite ones are the cute little penguins.
3. Take Part in a Guided Bike or Walking Tour
There are many upsides to taking part in a guided tour. For one, you might get to visit some secret hot spots and fun places. Also, a knowledgeable guide can tell you all about history and culture during the tour.
Here are some of my favorite tours in Vienna:
- Historical Hitler Walking Tour of Vienna
- Vienna City Center Small Group Walking Tour
- Vienna’s Hightlights Walking Tour
4. Go to an Open-Air Concert
Open-air concerts are one of my favorite ways to enjoy Vienna’s warm summer nights.
Every year, the city hosts the Donauinselfest. The Donauinselfest is one of Europe’s largest open-air festivals. It is held on an island in the Danube River. There are tons of different acts, from most genres.
Another one of the most iconic concerts in Vienna is the Summer Night Concert at Schönbrunn Palace. Every year, the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra holds a free open-air concert at the beautiful Schönbrunn Palace Gardens. It is a classical-music concert, the way it is set up in front of the palace is super special.
There are also many other concerts all around the city. From the Film Music Festival at City Hall Square to the Jazz concerts at City Hall Park – there is something for everyone.
5. Visit Vienna City Beach
Vienna City Beach is a popular spot in Vienna. They have created a fun beach – right in the heart of the city. Vienna City Beach is one of my favorite spots in Vienna in summer.
Vienna City Beach is situated along the banks of the Danube Canal, near the Urania Observatory. Play Volleyball, have a cocktail on the beach, or simply lounge in one of the beach chairs and listen to some music.
Make sure to also try some vegan ice cream there, it is surprisingly good.
6. Have a Snack at the Naschmarkt
The Naschmarkt is Vienna’s most famous and vibrant open-air market. It is located in the 6th district of Vienna, but to be honest, it reminds me a bit of taking a trip to Marrakech.
The vibrant marketplace is reflecting Vienna’s multiculturalism. You can eat some street food there and buy a wide array of things. In over 100 different market stalls, you can find spices, produce, textiles, and many more things from all over the world.
On Saturdays, they host a flea market at the Naschmarkt. Make sure to avoid this day if you don’t want to mingle with too many people.
7. Head over to Kahlenberg – Best Spot in Summer in Vienna
Kahlenberg is one of Vienna’s most iconic and beloved spots – and for good reason.
From the Kahlenberg you have some of the most breathtaking views of the city. From there you can see the Danube River and the Vienna woods.
The hill is known for its picturesque vineyards, which have been around since the 19th century. These vineyards are the only ones in Europe that are located within a city’s borders.
There are also several restaurants that offer delicious Austrian specialties – with a view. At night, many people head up to Kahlenberg to take part in its vibrant nightlife scene.
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8. Check Out Vienna Prater
Vienna Prater is a large public park and entertainment area – the perfect place to visit in summer. It is not only an amusement park, but also has many historical features to offer.
Vienna Prater is famous for its iconic giant Ferris wheel, called the Wiener Riesenrad. It has become a symbol of the city. Visiting Vienna Prater in the summer offers several cool experiences – so make sure to put it on your Vienna bucket list.
9. Hang Out in One of Vienna’s Beautiful Parks
Vienna has some of the most beautiful parks in the world. Especially during the summer months, I love hanging out there. Grab some ice cream and head out for a lovely stroll.
Stadtpark is one of the most popular parks, there is a cute pond in the middle and there are plenty of benches to enjoy a picnic.
The Volksgarten is another popular spot in Vienna during summer. There are beautiful blooming flower beds and fountains. It is close to several famous landmarks, like the Hofburg.
If you are looking for a very special garden to check out the Setagayapark. It is an original Japanese garden with many original traditional features.
10. Go on a Small Road-Trip in Summer from Vienna
Austria is one of the best places for a road trip. The streets are easy to navigate and the fuel is cheap – so why not rent a car for a day and explore more of the country?
The best place to go for a road trip in Austria in summer is Hallstatt. The beautiful small village is famous all over the world for its picturesque buildings and impressive mountains in the background. Hallstatt is also worth a trip in winter. Of course you need to head over to Salzburg as well.
Another great place to explore is the neighboring state of Styria. The state is filled with impressive mountains, beautiful lakes and even stunning vineyards.
11. Book a Day-Trip
If you are not a road trip fan, booking a day trip out of the city is a great alternative. The country of Austria is so beautiful, it would be a shame to not travel around a bit during your time in Vienna.
Here are some of my favorite day-trips from Vienna:
12. Visit the Spanish Riding School
The Spanish Riding School in Vienna is a must-visit attraction for not only horse-fans. Established in 1572, it is the oldest remaining riding academy in the world that specializes in the classical “Hall Riding System”.
This system was used by the Habsburg dynasty to train their horses for war. You can watch expert riders and their beautiful Lipizzaner stallions performing masterful dressage movements.
13. Ride the Fiaker Around Town
The Fiakers are somewhat of a controversial topic in Vienna, especially among animal activists. A Fiaker is a traditional Viennese carriage carried by two horses.
Picking a Fiaker company that maintains a very high standard of how the horses are treated is extremely important. Only licensed Fiakers that are deemed well enough by the city of Vienna are allowed to offer rides.
In the summer months, it can get extremely hot. On these hot days, the horses deserve a day off. Make sure to not plan your ride on a super sunny day. We did the tour in Vienna in winter, since we felt like it was better for the horses.
14. Visit a Rooftop Bar or a Traditional Tavern for Austrian Wine
Rooftop bars are a popular way to take in the sights of Vienna during summer months. It is one of my favorite things to do in Vienna in summer for sure. Vienna is home to some of Europe’s most unique rooftop bars.
My favorite option is “Atmosphere Rooftop Bar,” located atop the Ritz Carlton Hotel. This hip spot offers an outdoor bar and lounge area. I love the creative cocktails there – and of course the view.
Other great rooftop bars in Vienna are:
- Aurora Bar im Andaz
- Rooftop Garden im Ruby Marie Hotel
- Lamee Rooftop
- Sky Bar
- 57 Bar and Lounge
If you are looking for something more casual, check out one of Viennas traditional taverns, the Heurigen. They serve delicious Austrian wine and snacks.
15. Visit the Danube Island
The Danube Island in Vienna is a beautiful island that runs along the Danube river. It stretches for over 21 kilometers. It’s a great spot to enjoy outdoor activities such as biking, swimming, or picnicking in one of its many parks.
In summer, one of the biggest music festivals in Austria is being held on the Danube Island. It is called the Donauinselfest, and it attracts many visitors from all over the world. If you are looking for Vienna summer activities, look no further than Danube island.
Important Holidays and Events in Summer in Vienna
In Vienna in summer there are several holidays and special events that you can take into account when planning your holiday. On some of these days, prices around town might be a bit higher than usual. In general, I suggest to check out the Vienna Event Calendar before you go.
- Corpus Christi (Fronleichnam): This Christian holiday falls on the second Thursday after Pentecost, which usually falls in June. It is a public holiday in Vienna and is celebrated with religious processions and ceremonies
- Pfingsten: Pfingsten is another religious holiday that usually falls at the end of May or beginning of June. It is usually a long weekend, with an additional Monday off work and school
- Vienna Jazz Festival is a great music festival in Vienna held in June or July every year.
- Vienna Pride is being celebrated in June each year. Vienna Pride is a vibrant LGBTQ+ event that includes a parade, street festival, parties, and cultural events.
- Vienna Fashion Week usually takes place in September. This event showcases the latest trends and designs in the fashion industry. There are runway shows, exhibitions and presentations of fashion.
- Assumption of Mary (Mariä Himmelfahrt): Celebrated on August 15th, this religious holiday commemorates the Virgin Mary’s ascent to heaven. It is a public holiday in Austria.
- Vienna Popfest: Held in August, this free music festival highlights the local pop music scene in Vienna. It features live performances of various genres
- Vienna Biennale for Change: This interdisciplinary arts festival takes place from June to September, with lots of exhibitions and showcases
- Vienna Film Festival is a great festival for movie lovers – it usually takes place from July until September on City Hall Square. There is no entrance fee, so make sure to check it out!
Conclusion: Summer in Vienna
Vienna in the summer is a wonderful place to explore – and it is definitely my favorite European city in the warmer months.
Many wonderful museums open their doors to visitors. There are cultural attractions and famous buildings sprinkled all over the city – perfect for a leisurely summer stroll. Make sure to check out the Schönbrunn Gardens, my favorite place in Vienna.
Whether you are grabbing some ice cream and wandering the city’s many parks or chilling at the banks of the Danube River – summer has never been more refreshing!
If Vienna is only your first stop in Austria on a road trip, make sure to check out my blog post about all the other lovely places you have to see in Austria. Of course you should go on a day trip from Vienna to Hallstatt.
Coming back in time for the Christmas Markets? Check out Winter in Vienna – the Ultimate Guide.
Looking for more Austria inspiration? Check out my favorite fancy hotels by the Red Bull Ring.
FAQ: Summer in Vienna
Yes, Vienna is a good destination for summer. The city offers pleasant weather with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F). You can explore its beautiful parks, visit outdoor cafes, attend music festivals, and enjoy various cultural events. Vienna’s rich history and stunning architecture make it a delightful place to visit during the summer months.
Yes, Vienna can get very crowded at times in summer. Because the parks and the popular places are quite spacious, it still feels pretty relaxed most of the time. If you want to avoid crowds all together, you should visit in April, May, October or November.
Yes, July is a good time to visit Vienna. The weather is usually warm and pleasant, making it ideal for exploring the city’s attractions. You can enjoy outdoor activities, visit famous landmarks, attend cultural festivals, and experience the vibrant atmosphere of the city. Just be prepared for higher tourist numbers and plan your activities accordingly.
On a hot day in Vienna, there are several things you can do to stay cool and enjoy your time. You can visit the city’s numerous museums and art galleries, explore the magnificent Schönbrunn Palace and its gardens, take a relaxing boat ride along the Danube River, or simply find shade in one of Vienna’s many parks and enjoy a picnic or a refreshing drink at a local café.
No, Vienna is not too hot in July. Vienna can experience hot temperatures in July, with average highs ranging from 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F). While it may be considered hot, it’s not excessively so. However, it’s always a good idea to stay hydrated, seek shade when needed, and plan activities accordingly to make the most of your visit during the summer months.
About the Author
Sabrina is a passionate travel blogger and content creator, based in the Netherlands. She spends about half of the year traveling to various destinations together with her husband.
She provides slow-paced itineraries that focus on quality over quantity. Sabrina wants to help her readers to get more out of their travel experiences – while doing less. Read more.
