Enjoy the Last Days of Summer At These Sunny Spots in Austria
Vienna is one of the most luxurious cities to visit any time of the year. However, it’s more magical during the summer season due to it’s diverse sunny spots.
Our ideal spot is a botanical garden but if you’re more of a beach fan then a “beach bar” is the one for you. There are tons of tasty street bites along the Danube Canal or wrapped in a bathrobe at the Old Danube.
Here are Vienna’s best spots to soak up the last rays of summer sunshine alongside the locals.
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1. Enjoy Nature in the Middle of the City
The beautiful inner-city parks are perfect for those who are tired after a long shopping day in the center of Vienna. Sun rays enter from all sides of the oasis while you enjoy monuments of the most famous Austrians like Mozart, empress Elisabeth (Sisi) or Johann Strauss.
Laid out in the French Baroque style, the beautiful Volksgarten has a rose garden with over 3,000 rose bushes of more than 200 different varieties.
Volksgarten
© ÖW, Julius Silver
You can also enjoy Austrian Traditions at small cafés or restaurants like the Palmenhaus in Burggarten or Kursalon Huebner in a green setting.
Burggarten
© ÖW, Willfried Gredler-Oxenbauer
2. Above the Sharks, Monkeys, and Turtles
The ultimate animal experience awaits you in Haus des Meeres. This hot spot is home to a total of 10,000 animals such as fresh and saltwater fish, insects, birds, and reptiles.
For some sun soaking, head up to the 50 metre high roof terrace of the former fire control tower where the 360° Ocean Sky Café-Bar is waiting for you. Breathe in an enjoy the panoramic views of the surrounding districts at the roof terrace.
Ocean Sky Café at Haus des Meeres
© Haus des Meeres, Lukas Arnold
3. Be a little Closer to the Sun at Kahlenberg
A peaceful and serene place to enjoy the sun. The Kahlenberg is located in the Vienna Woods and at 484 meters one of the “highest” mountains of Vienna
On clear days, one can not only see the entire city from above, but even the Schneeberg, where Vienna’s Mountain spring water comes from. It can easily be reached by public bus or car.
Kahlenberg
© Vienna PASS, Bernhard Luck
4. Southern Vibes Next to Castles and Museums
We’re in love with everything green, but this spot is on another level. You can enjoy sun rays under lush exotic plants in the middle of Vienna’s third district.
Dedicated to all plant fans and nature lovers, the Botanical Garden of the University of Vienna offers orchids to succulents and Pannonian plants – you will find everything from native flora to unusual exotics here
Botanical Garden Belvedere Vienna
© Belvedere Wien, Johannes Stoll
To have a more unique experience head to Belvedere Palace and the Museum of Military History which are just around the corner for a view on culture.
Belvedere Vienna
© Vienna PASS, Bernhard Luck
5. Dangling Your Feet in the Cool Water From a Rowing Boat
The calm water former branch of the Danube is a real paradise for water sports. It’s just ten minutes by underground from the city center (St. Stephan’s Cathedral) to the Old Danube. Try a rowing boat, kayak or stand-up paddle board. ,
For extra fun, grab a filled picnic basket and bring good company.
Old Danube
© Wien Tourismus, Paul Bauer
6. Amidst Protected Nature
Lobau is a true sun magnet across 2,300 hectares. Its natural bathing areas entice with protected nature, free entry, and swans instead of lifeguards.
In Austria, great efforts are made to protect animals and nature, which is why bathing is only allowed in designated areas.
The natural oasis is located in Donau-Auen National Park is in the east of Vienna.
Danube Auen National Park – Lobau
© MA49
7. Sun Paired With Cultural Delights
There are numerous sunny spots in the inner courtyards of the Museumsquartier, which is home to more than 60 cultural institutions, from visual and performing arts, fashion, theatre, and dance to literature and new media
Quirky and hip cafés offering take-away in the MQ, invite you to relax, providing a tranquil feel-good hidden gem in the middle of city.
Museumsquarter
© MuseumsQuartier, Hertha Hurnaus
8. Sunshine Meets Imperial Hunting History
A must visit, is Lainz Game Reserve, in on the outskirts of Vienna.
Have a relaxing walk-in nature while watching animals in their natural habitat.
You can also visit the Hermes Villa, affectionately called the “Palace of Dreams” by Empress Elisabeth, for a more cultural experience. The villa is located in the middle of the former imperial hunting area, combines cultural history with relaxation.
Hermesvilla Lainz
© ÖW, Willfried Gredler-Oxenbauer
9. Summery Local Mile for Gourmets
To enjoy this to the max, take a big appetite and work your way through everything.
The Danube Canal offers cool beats, chilled drinks, and a gourmet journey from Oriental Street food to tasty burgers (with or without meat) and typical Austrian and Viennese Heuriger specialities.
Danube Canal
© Wien Tourismus, Christian Stemper