The illuminated Vienna Ferris Wheel at dusk in Prater Park, offering a serene skyline view.
A colorful aerial view of the famous Wurstelprater amusement park in Vienna, Austria, featuring dynamic roller coasters.
travel, architecture, heaven, carousel, prater, vienna, amusement park, old, prater, prater, prater, prater, prater
prater, wheel, amusement park, vienna, austria, vienna, vienna, vienna, vienna, vienna
All attractions

Prater

Vienna, Austria
i

The illuminated Vienna Ferris Wheel at dusk in Prater Park, offering a serene skyline view.

Photo by Jorge Urosa

Steel beams arch above bright lights, the laughter of children, the rush of wind from spinning carousels—all blending together with the scent of roasted almonds and the distant thump of music. This is Prater: an urban fairground where Vienna’s old soul meets its playful spirit. Originally imperial hunting grounds, Prater has bloomed into a public playground. Here, families, friends, and curious travelers wander through open fields, ancient chestnut groves, and a buzzing amusement park. Time slows amid the grandeur and the whimsy, inviting visitors to dive in, explore, and recharge beneath the giant Ferris wheel’s watchful eye.

Visiting Info

Currency
Entrance fee
Free

Contact Information

Location
Address
1020 Vienna, Austria
Phone
Website

Planning your visit

Visiting Prater is easy for those who come prepared. The park welcomes everyone, from thrill-seekers to families seeking a lazy afternoon. Spring and autumn bring pleasant weather, with fewer crowds than the busy summers. Early mornings or weekday afternoons mean more room to roam. Affordable public transit connects Prater to Vienna’s center, while walking paths and wide lanes offer gentle terrain for all ages.

  • Best time to visit: Late spring to early autumn, mornings or early evenings for comfortable weather
  • How to get there: Take the U1 or U2 subway (Praterstern stop); trams and city buses also provide access
  • Accessibility: Flat, paved paths for strollers and wheelchairs; plenty of benches; family-friendly attractions
  • Average visit duration: 2–4 hours for the amusement park; a full day for exploring lawns, woods, and dining spots

Must see stuff

Few city parks blend nature and excitement like Prater. The main draw, the Wurstelprater amusement park, keeps generations coming back. Around the edges, vast meadows and shaded trails invite quiet strolls or energetic bike rides. Museum buffs and thrill-seekers alike find hidden corners, with just as many chances for a slow coffee as a pulse-racing rollercoaster. From historic rides to playful art installations, the park creates lifelong memories.

  • Giant Ferris Wheel (Wiener Riesenrad): Iconic for its slow, sweeping city views. Perfect for first-timers and history fans.
  • Liliputbahn: A miniature steam train weaving through lush parkland; children and nostalgic adults love the ride.
  • Madame Tussauds Vienna: Get close to wax figures of global stars and Austrian heroes.
  • Blumengärten Hirschstetten: Large flower gardens offering peaceful breaks from the bustle; best in late spring.
  • Historic cafes and sausage stands: Sample traditional Viennese snacks under leafy trees.
  • Photo-worthy spots: The Red Giant Ferris Wheel at dusk, lively walkways lined with neon, shaded Prater Hauptallee views.
  • Cultural facts: Once part of the Habsburgs’ estate, Prater opened to the public in 1766 and became a model for urban parks worldwide.

Tips for your visit

Prater runs at a pace all its own; a little planning goes a long way. Some attractions close during bad weather, while others, like outdoor cafés, fill up fast in good sunshine. Cash remains useful at food stands, though most larger venues accept cards. Comfortable shoes keep feet happy—distances add up quickly when curiosity leads down winding side trails. Locals expect good manners, patience in lines, and respect for the park’s tidy green spaces.

  • Arrive early or late: Early mornings or evenings after 7 p.m. mean fewer people and shorter lines for rides.
  • Pack smart: Water bottle, small snacks, and sunscreen come in handy; don’t forget a camera for spectacular golden hour photos.
  • Etiquette: Keep picnic areas clean; wait your turn at busy attractions; greet park staff with a friendly "Grüß Gott" if possible.
  • Comfort and safety: Secure loose items before riding; borrow a bike to explore further; take care near speeding cyclists on shared paths.