Vienna, the lively capital of Austria, offers much more than just historical sights and cultural experiences. With 63 kilometers of freely accessible shorelines and a variety of natural bathing areas along the Danube and the Old Danube, the city invites its residents and visitors to enjoy a unique bathing experience in the middle of an urban environment. The city administration under the leadership of City Councilor Ulli Sima is pursuing a clear line: instead of the increasing privatization of shore access, as in many other regions, Vienna is focusing on public accessibility and the creation of attractive leisure activities on the water.

Ein herausragendes Beispiel für Wiens Engagement in der Schaffung öffentlicher Badeplätze ist die Donauinsel. Ursprünglich als Hochwasserschutzmaßnahme zwischen 1972 und 1988 errichtet, hat sich die Insel zu einem der beliebtesten Freizeitareale der Stadt entwickelt. Mit dem längsten Badestrand Europas und 60 Schwimm-Pontons bietet die Insel ideale Bedingungen für Badefreunde und Sonnenanbeter. Insbesondere der „Pier 22“, ein neu gestalteter Abschnitt der sogenannten „Sunken City“, erfreut sich großer Beliebtheit. Hier finden Besucher eine Uferpromenade mit schattigen Plätzchen, Schwimmplattformen und konsumfreien Picknick-Bereichen.

Directly opposite is the Copa Beach, which offers a unique holiday feeling on an area of ​​four hectares. Two sandy beaches, a green seating area and tropical plants create a relaxed atmosphere. The recently opened Arena Beach, with its family-friendly sandy beach and a shallow water zone, is also an attractive destination for those seeking relaxation. The nearby Pirate Bay expands the offer with a spacious sandy beach with shallow water entrances and shady spots.

Diverse bathing options on the Old Danube

Not only the New Danube, but also the Old Danube offers a variety of attractive bathing spots. With a water surface of 1,6 square kilometers, it is a popular destination for water sports enthusiasts and bathers. In recent years, the city of Vienna has opened up numerous riverbank access points and created new bathing spots. Particularly noteworthy is the Workers' Beach, a 23.000 square meter lawn with shady trees. The Strombucht and the Mühlschüttel also offer idyllic bathing spots away from the hustle and bustle, ideal for those seeking peace and quiet.

Since summer 2023, several new jetties and floating platforms have been built on the Upper Old Danube, making it easier to enter the water and providing additional berths. These new facilities, such as the 30-meter-long jetties, not only offer direct access to the water, but also a beautiful panoramic view of the Old Danube. Heat-tolerant tree species have also been planted along the embankment to provide pleasant shade on hot summer days.

The City of Vienna attaches great importance to the cleanliness and maintenance of its natural bathing areas. Regular checks and cooperation with the population ensure that the bathing areas remain in good condition. Ulli Sima, the responsible city councilor, appeals to all visitors to dispose of their rubbish properly and to help maintain these recreational areas. The municipal MA 45, responsible for Vienna's waters, monitors compliance with the rules on the Danube Island with a team of around 20 employees and ensures that the natural bathing areas remain clean and safe.

With its diverse natural bathing areas, Vienna offers a unique recreational experience right in the city. The continuous investment in the accessibility and attractiveness of the riverside areas makes the city a pioneer in terms of public recreational spaces. Whether at CopaBeach, the Old Danube or one of the many smaller bathing areas - Vienna invites you to enjoy the summer days in and on the water. The city remains true to its credo: bathing fun for everyone, with no entrance fees and a clear commitment to sustainability.