Vienna , Austria

Small-Group Guided Kayak Tour of Vienna

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About this experience

We've developed the only guided paddling route in Vienna, one that explores the grand Old Danube lake, an old side arm of the famous river. Along the way, take in some of Vienna's most important contemporary architecture, learn all about its modern-day influence and experience the undiscovered recreational heart of the city!

We may stop at a lake shore cafe or take a swim in the clean water. Expect to share the morning with some rowers, the odd fisherman, & the local bird life. For the most part though, we should have it to ourselves ;-)

This is the ultimate summer tour, so come see a different side of this city with us at Venture Vienna. We limit all of our tours to genuinely small-groups (max 12), which means your experience with us is more intimate, enriching and personal alongside your fellow travelers. You'll get loads of tips from us for your stay in the city while making new international friends, getting some sunshine, and being active in the great outdoors!

Available options

Small-group kayak tour

Small-groups: All of our tours are limited to just 12 people so you get the class of service you deserve.<br/>Duration: 3 hours

What's included

Engaging & intelligent guide with loads of insider tips on things to do in Vienna

Sightseeing at various lakeside spots around the Old Danube

Use of kayak, PFD/lifevest, and dry storage equipment for clothes & phone

Certified open-water lifesaver & native english speaking guide with live commentary

Detailed itinerary

We'll be investigating arguably the most quaint part of Vienna, the Alte Donau; a lakeside village which was cut off from the main Danube channel in 1870. This is where nocturnal beavers now roam in an old side arm of the grand river. Cute lakeside huts adorn the water's edge to give vibrant bursts of colour to the lakeshore. We'll most likely be sharing the water with local rowers, the odd fisherman, and plenty of swans and ducks along the way! If it's hot, we can also take a break for a swim in the clean lake waters.

Once the tour ends, if you wanted to keep investigating 'new' Vienna for a bit longer, you could grab lunch or a cocktail at Vienna's nearby 'Copa Beach', swim and hang out on the Danube Island, visit Austria's tallest building - the Danube Tower, or explore the charming Danube Park, all of which are within walking distance from where we'll finish.

Stop 2 Pass by

We'll be paddling in full view of Austria's tallest building, as well as many of Vienna's other modern skyscrapers within the shadow of its emerging skyline.

Discover Vienna's international and political side as we paddle past the United Nations' third largest global headquarters. We'll see how modern-day Vienna has maintained its long-established reputation as a center for diplomacy and international relations.

We'll be paddling all around this secret paradise for the local Viennese - a unique island formed within the Old Danube which has become one of Vienna's most beloved recreational spots.

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

10 reviews

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Tripadvisor 5.0

104 reviews

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Important information

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

All participants must be able to swim.

To wear: swim gear/quick drying sportswear, t-shirt, hat, rain jacket (for windier conditions & light rain)

To bring: drinking water, sun cream, cash.

You will inevitably get a bit wet so pay attention to the weather forecast on the day of your excursion and dress accordingly!

Please go to the Venture Vienna website to read our FAQ and to learn more

Children 16 and under must be accompanied by an adult

This tour has a minimum number of participants to go ahead

Meeting point

Meeting point is the exit of the 'Alte Donau' u-bahn station on the U1 red line. If arriving by Uber or Taxi then tell your driver to head to the 'Alte Donau U-bahn station'.

About Vienna

Vienna, the capital of Austria, is renowned for its rich imperial history, vibrant arts scene, and stunning architecture. Known as the 'City of Music', it has been home to legendary composers like Mozart, Beethoven, and Strauss. The city's elegant cafes, grand palaces, and world-class museums make it a cultural treasure trove.

Top Attractions

Schönbrunn Palace

A former imperial summer residence, Schönbrunn Palace is a stunning example of Baroque architecture. The palace and its gardens are a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Historical/Architecture 2-3 hours €18 for Imperial Tour, €24 for Grand Tour

St. Stephen's Cathedral

A masterpiece of Gothic architecture, St. Stephen's Cathedral is a symbol of Vienna. The cathedral's multi-colored tile roof is iconic.

Religious/Architecture 1-2 hours Free entry, €6 for tower climb, €7 for treasury

Belvedere Palace

A historic building complex with two Baroque palaces, the Belvedere houses the largest collection of Gustav Klimt paintings, including 'The Kiss'.

Historical/Art/Museum 2-3 hours €16 for Upper Belvedere, €14 for Lower Belvedere

Vienna State Opera

One of the world's leading opera houses, the Vienna State Opera offers performances of opera, ballet, and concerts.

Cultural/Entertainment 2-4 hours (performance length) €10-200 depending on performance and seat

Hofburg Palace

The former imperial palace, Hofburg Palace is now home to several museums, the Austrian National Library, and the Spanish Riding School.

Historical/Museum 2-3 hours €14 for Sisi Museum and Imperial Apartments, €20 for Silver Collection

Must-Try Local Dishes

Wiener Schnitzel

A thin, breaded, and fried veal cutlet, traditionally served with lemon and potato salad or dumplings.

Dinner Contains gluten and dairy

Tafelspitz

Boiled beef, usually served with root vegetables, apple sauce, and horseradish.

Dinner Gluten-free, dairy-free

Sachertorte

A famous chocolate cake with a thin layer of apricot jam, covered in dark chocolate glaze.

Dessert Contains gluten and dairy

Apfelstrudel

A thin pastry filled with spiced apples, raisins, and sugar, often served with vanilla sauce or ice cream.

Dessert Contains gluten

Popular Activities

Hiking in the Vienna Woods Cycling along the Danube Kayaking on the Danube Coffee house hopping Spa day at a luxury hotel Strolling through Schönbrunn Palace Gardens Visiting museums and galleries Attending opera or concert performances

Best Time to Visit

May to September

This is the best time to visit Vienna for pleasant weather and outdoor activities. The city hosts numerous festivals and cultural events during these months.

15°C to 30°C 59°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: German
Widely spoken: English, Austro-Bavarian dialect
English: Widely spoken in tourist areas, moderately spoken elsewhere

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (CET), GMT+2 (CEST during daylight saving time)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Vienna is a safe city with low crime rates. However, as with any major city, petty crime and pickpocketing can occur in tourist areas.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps
• Be cautious of strangers offering help or services

Getting there

By air

Vienna International Airport • 18 km from city center

By train

Vienna Hauptbahnhof (Main Station), Vienna Westbahnhof

By bus

Vienna International Bus Terminal, Erdberg Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Vienna's metro system is efficient and user-friendly, with four lines (U1, U2, U3, U4).

Taxis

Available • Apps: Bolt, FreeNow

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Innere Stadt Leopoldstadt Wieden Hietzing

Day trips

Bratislava

80 km (50 miles) • Full day

The capital of Slovakia, Bratislava is a charming city with a rich history, beautiful architecture, and a vibrant cultural scene.

Salzburg

300 km (186 miles) • Full day or overnight

The birthplace of Mozart, Salzburg is a beautiful city with a rich musical heritage, stunning architecture, and scenic surroundings.

Hallstatt

200 km (124 miles) • Full day or overnight

A picturesque lakeside village in the Austrian Alps, Hallstatt is known for its stunning natural beauty and historic salt mines.

Festivals

Vienna Festival (Wiener Festwochen) • May to June Vienna Opera Ball (Wiener Opernball) • Late February or early March Vienna Christmas Markets (Wiener Christkindlmarkt) • Late November to December 26

Pro tips

Visit major attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds
Purchase a Vienna Pass for unlimited transport and attractions, saving time and money
Explore the city's coffee house culture and try traditional pastries like Sachertorte and Apfelstrudel
Take a day trip to nearby cities like Bratislava or Salzburg for a change of pace
Use public transport or walk to explore the city, as driving can be challenging and expensive