Cruise Through Vienna - Discover, Dine & Relax

Panoramic Views
Panoramic Views
Frequent Departures
Frequent Departures
Sightseeing & Onboard Meal Options
Sightseeing & Onboard Meal Options
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Things to know before booking your Danube river cruise tickets

  • Vienna’s cruises take place on the Danube River and its inner-city branch, the Danube Canal, offering views of both natural landscapes and urban landmarks. If you're short on time, the City Sightseeing Cruise on Danube Canal with Optional Lunch is a quick 75-minute loop along the Danube Canal. For a longer and more scenic route, the City Sightseeing Cruise on Danube Canal with Optional Lunch offers a 3.5-hour round trip through both the Canal and River.
  • The Sunset Summer Cruise on Danube River with Barbecue combines dinner with sunset views and is one of the most popular picks. For a cultural twist, the Heurigen Cruise includes live Viennese music and regional wine.
  • Choose a Wachau Valley or Bratislava Day Cruise . Both offer countryside views, onboard meals, and time to explore local towns, perfect for a full-day outing.
  • Popular options like the Evening Buffet Cruise often sell out on weekends and during peak travel months. Some routes, like the Wachau Valley Cruise and themed evening sailings, run only on select dates—so check availability and book early to secure your spot.
  • Standard sightseeing cruises include the ride only—meals aren’t provided, but drinks and light snacks are available to buy on board. For a full meal, choose cruises that mention buffet or set menus, or opt for dining upgrades when booking.
  • Cruises operate in most weather conditions. Boats have covered seating, so light rain won’t impact your experience. In rare cases of extreme weather or river conditions, cruises may be delayed or rescheduled with advance notice.
  • Wheelchair access is available on most boats, the main docks and lower decks are generally accessible, and staff can assist with ramps. Let the crew know in advance if you need support.

What to expect on a Danube river cruise

Explore Vienna in comfort
Culinary delights
Live entertainment
Variety of cruise options
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Unforgettable sunset and evening views in comfort

Cruise through Vienna in comfort—avoid crowds and cobblestones as you relax on spacious boats with shaded decks. Sunset and evening cruises offer stunning views of the city glowing at golden hour and lit up at night, sometimes paired with extras like BBQs.

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A taste of Vienna on board

Some cruises serve up classic Viennese fare, think schnitzel, apple strudel, and local wine. Evening sailings may include BBQ buffets or full-course dinners, turning your cruise into a scenic, flavorful experience.

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Live music and themed entertainment

Some evening cruises come with live music and themed programs, think classic Viennese tunes, local folk songs, or even retro hits. It’s like a floating concert that brings an extra layer of fun and cultural charm to your journey.

Plenty of cruise styles to choose from

There’s a cruise for every kind of traveler. Take a quick sightseeing loop on the Danube Canal, enjoy a sunset BBQ cruise, or go for an evening of wine, music, and hearty Austrian fare on the Heurigen Cruise. Want to venture further? Full-day cruises to Wachau Valley or Bratislava include meals and free time to explore charming towns along the way.

Your Vienna river cruise options

Vienna sightseeing cruises

Sightseeing cruises

Sightseeing cruises in Vienna are a relaxing way to see the city from the water. Whether you sail along the Danube Canal or River, you’ll pass landmarks like the Urania Observatory and the Hundertwasser District Heating Plant. Some cruises include canal locks and optional local treats like Schnitzel or apple strudel—perfect for pairing views with Viennese flavors.

Recommended tickets:

Panorama Cruise on Danube River with Optional Viennese DelicaciesGrand Sightseeing Cruise on Danube River & Canal with Optional Viennese DelicaciesCity Sightseeing Cruise on the Danube Canal with Optional Lunch
Vienna sightseeing cruises
Danube River Cruise Vienna

Dining cruises

Dining cruises in Vienna blend delicious Austrian cuisine with scenic views and a touch of entertainment. Enjoy classics like Wiener Schnitzel, beef goulash, apple strudel, or Sachertorte as you cruise along the Danube River or Canal. Options range from 3-course plated dinners to buffet spreads and summer barbecues. Many evening cruises feature live music, from traditional Viennese tunes to themed nights like ABBA hits or folk-style Heurigen songs, making it a fun and flavorful way to experience Vienna by night.

Recommended tickets:

Evening Sightseeing Cruise on Danube River & Canal with Optional DinnerEvening Themed Cruise on Danube River with Dinner & Live MusicSunset Summer Cruise on Danube River with Barbecue
Vienna dinner cruises
Danube River Cruise Vienna

Full day cruises

For those with more time, full-day cruises from Vienna to Dürnstein or Bratislava offer a deeper look beyond the city. These scenic Danube journeys pass through stunning countryside and give you a few hours to explore the destination on foot, wander through medieval streets, visit historic sites, or simply soak up the local charm. With a relaxed pace and beautiful river views along the way, it’s a great way to combine sightseeing, culture, and a change of scenery, all in one day.

Recommended ticket:

Bratislava or Dürnstein: Day Trip from Vienna on Danube River by Boat
Vienna to Bratislava boat trip

Top sights to see on Vienna cruises

Ringturm

Ringturm

Ringturm is a prominent skyscraper along the Danube Canal housing various offices and often featuring large-scale artwork on its facade. Built in 1955, it offers a sharp contrast to Vienna's historic architecture and is a striking example of post-war design. Your Danube river cruise in Vienna will offer a perfect angle to appreciate its architectural beauty.

Danube River Cruise Vienna

Hundertwasser District Heating Plant

This waste incineration plant is a colorful and unconventional sight in Vienna. Designed by artist Friedensreich Hundertwasser, its quirky shapes and vibrant colors stand out against the cityscape. From the cruise, you'll see the plant's whimsical design, which turns a functional facility into a fascinating piece of art.

Danube River Cruise Vienna

Urania Observatory

The Urania Observatory, a historic educational institution, is another highlight. Its distinctive dome and Art Nouveau style make it an eye-catching landmark. From the cruise, you'll have a great view of this structure, which has been inspiring astronomers and visitors alike since the early 20th century.

Danube River Cruise Vienna

Uniqa Tower

Uniqua Tower is an unmissable sight on your Vienna boat trip. Its sleek, modern design and shimmering glass facade reflect the sunlight, creating a dazzling display that stands in sharp contrast to Vienna's historic architecture. The cruise offers a prime spot to appreciate this innovative architectural work.

Zaha-Hadid-Haus

Zaha-Hadid-Haus

Zaha-Hadid-Haus is a remarkable residential building designed by the famous architect Zaha Hadid. Its futuristic design and flowing lines make it stand out along the Danube Canal. Cruising past this building allows you to admire its innovative architecture up close.

Roßauer Kaserne

Roßauer Kaserne

The Rossauer Barracks, a historic military building, is a prominent sight along the Danube Canal with its distinctive red-brick design. It provides a fascinating contrast to the surrounding modern buildings, and the cruise offers a perfect vantage point to observe this historic site.

Badeschiff

Badeschiff

Cruise past the Badeschiff and witness Vienna's unique take on urban leisure. This floating pool and barge create a lively scene, with people lounging by the pool, sipping drinks, and enjoying the vibrant atmosphere right on the river.

Danube River Cruise Vienna

Schützenhaus

The Schützenhaus, designed by the renowned architect Otto Wagner, is an excellent example of Vienna's Art Nouveau style. Visible from the water, its detailed facade makes it one of those sights that really grabs your attention and makes you appreciate the city's artistic heritage.

Danube River Cruise Vienna

Danube Tower

Visible from afar, the Danube Tower is one of Vienna's tallest structures. From the river, you can see its sleek silhouette against the sky. Observing it from the water provides a unique angle and appreciation for its height and design.

Danube River Cruise Vienna

Millennium Tower

The Millennium Tower, another of Vienna's tallest buildings, is an impressive skyscraper. The sleek, modern design of the tower is impressive from any viewpoint, but seeing it from the river emphasizes its commanding presence over the cityscape.

Danube River Cruise Vienna

The Prater Area

The Prater area, often referred to as Vienna's 'green heart,' is a vast parkland that extends along the river. As you cruise by, you'll see its gorgeous greenery, winding wooded paths, and of course, the famous Giant Ferris. It is a refreshing sight amid Vienna's urban landscape.

Highlights of Vienna boat tour to Dürnstein

vienna boat trips on the danube

The skyline of Vienna

Vienna's skyline is a mesmerizing mix of history and modernity. From the majestic St. Stephen's Cathedral to the contemporary high-rises, the city's skyline tells a story of its evolving character. On a Danube river cruise from Vienna, you'll be treated to panoramic views of the beautiful cityscape, showcasing Vienna's unique charm and grandeur.

vienna boat tour
vienna city cruises
vienna cruise
vienna cruise to Dürnstein

Highlights of Vienna to Bratislava boat trip

vienna cruises

Bratislava Castle

As you approach Bratislava from the Danube, Bratislava Castle will dominate the skyline, perched majestically on a hill. The cruise offers a stunning perspective of the castle's architecture and its commanding position overlooking the city and the river.

vienna cruises
vienna cruises

Boarding points of Danube Cruises from Vienna: Where the adventure begins

City Cruises Vienna DDSG Blue Danube

Famous for: Saturday market, various shops, restaurants, and clubs, and the canal promenade serving as a social hub with pop-up bars, food stalls, and cultural events.

Nearest subway: Schwedenplatz

Marina Wien Yachthafen

Famous for: Views of the stunning Donaustadt Bridge, peaceful surroundings, a few cafes and fine dining restaurants nearby.

Nearest subway: Donaumarina

Marina Wien Yachthafen

Famous for: Cafes and restaurants offering views of the Danube Canal, a photo point at the Danube shore, and proximity to the St. Francis of Assisi Church.

Nearest subway: Vorgartenstraße

Plan your Danube boat trip in Vienna

boat cruise vienna
  • City Sightseeing Cruise on Danube Canal with Optional Lunch: 4pm & 5:30pm
  • Panorama Cruise on Danube River with Optional Viennese Delicacies: 10:45am, 1:15pm & 3:45pm
  • Evening Sightseeing Cruise on Danube River & Canal with Optional Dinner: 7pm
  • Evening Themed Cruise on Danube River with Dinner & Live Music: 7pm
  • Bratislava or Dürnstein: Day Trip from Vienna on Danube River by Boat: 9am
  • Sunset Cruise in Vienna with Barbecue & Fireworks: 7pm
  • Sunset Summer Cruise on Danube River with Barbecue: 7pm
Vienna River Cruise
  • Best time of the day: Mornings are peaceful and quiet, just you, calm waters, and a city slowly waking up. Midday cruises are bright and lively, great for sightseeing and snapping photos. Come sunset, Vienna glows in golden light, pure magic! And if you're up for a bit of romance, evening cruises with the city lights shimmering on the water are the way to go.
  • Best time of the year: No matter when you visit, Vienna’s cruises have something special to offer. Spring (April–June) brings fresh blooms and comfy weather, perfect for a scenic float. Summer (July–September) means sunny skies and long days, ideal for soaking up those river views. In autumn (October–November), the trees turn golden, and the cooler breeze makes your cruise feel extra cozy. And don’t count out winter (December–March)—with twinkling lights and festive charm, it’s like gliding through a holiday postcard.
Wien cruises
  • Spacious seating for ultimate comfort: Kick back and relax, Vienna’s cruise boats are designed with comfort in mind. With plenty of seating, you’ll have all the space you need to enjoy the scenic views in style.
  • Bring your pets friends along: Pet parents, rejoice! These cruises are pet and guide dog-friendly, so your four-legged companions can join in on the fun too.
  • Open-air decks and cozy covered spots: Whether you're chasing the breeze or dodging a drizzle, these boats have you covered (literally!). Enjoy the fresh air on the open deck or stay comfy in the sheltered areas, it’s a perfect setup for any weather.
  • Dine in style with a view: Opting for a meal cruise? You’re in for a treat. Think elegant dining spaces with panoramic windows, where every bite comes with a side of stunning Vienna views.
  • Friendly crew on board: Expect smooth sailing! The crew is not just professional—they’re warm, welcoming, and always ready to help make your cruise memorable.
  • Wheelchair and pram/stroller accessible: Got a stroller or wheelchair? No worries. Vienna cruises are built to be inclusive, with easy access for all guests to enjoy the ride hassle-free.
Vienna River Cruise
  • Book tickets in advance: Vienna cruises are quite popular and can fill up quickly, so it's wise to book 2-3 weeks in advance to secure your spot.
  • Arrive early: Arrive at the boarding point 15-20 minutes before the departure to have plenty of time to board and settle in comfortably.
  • Check the menu: If you are booking a lunch or dinner cruise, make sure to take a look at the menu to ensure that they have options that cater to your dietary needs and preferences.
  • Bring binoculars: Binoculars will help you spot an array of bird species, including swans and ducks, along the Danube's banks, enhancing your sightseeing experience.
  • Wachau Valley cruises for wine lovers: Sail through Austria’s top wine region with full-day cruises that include scenic stops in towns like Dürnstein and wine tastings of local Grüner Veltliner and Riesling, perfect for sipping and sightseeing!
  • Take precautions for motion sickness: Consider taking medication beforehand or opting for a shorter Wien cruise to minimize discomfort due to motion sickness.
Schifffahrt Wien
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