Prater travel guide

Vienna's iconic Prater Park has a rich history dating back to the 12th century. Originally, it was a hunting ground reserved for the Austrian nobility. In 1766, Emperor Joseph II opened the Prater to the public, making it one of the first public parks in the world.

The Prater was transformed into an amusement park in the late 19th century, with the addition of the iconic Riesenrad Ferris Wheel in 1897. This landmark has become synonymous with the park and is still a major attraction today.

During World War II, the park suffered significant damage, but was quickly rebuilt and reopened in 1947. Today, the Prater continues to delight visitors with its mix of historic charm and modern attractions. From thrilling rides to peaceful green spaces, the Prater offers something for everyone.

Prater, the iconic amusement park in Vienna, distinctly stands out for its nostalgic charm combined with modern entertainment. The most famous attraction is the Wiener Riesenrad, a giant Ferris wheel providing panoramic views of Vienna. Prater's unique blend of high-thrill rides and charming, old-fashioned booths make it an unparalleled attraction. The Madame Tussauds wax museum offers a distinctive touch with its collection of wax figures of famous personalities.

This expansive park doesn't just limit itself to amusement. It includes the Praterstern, a large public square, and the Prater Hauptallee, a main avenue lined with chestnut trees, perfect for leisurely strolls or cycling. The Wurstelprater, a part of the park, is open 24 hours, offering a unique feature where fun doesn't have a time limit. Prater also houses a planetarium and the Prater Museum, which showcases the history of the park, adding an educational aspect to the entertainment. The park's diversity in offerings, combining entertainment, leisure, and education, makes it a unique attraction in Vienna.

Located in the dynamic Leopoldstadt, the popular Prater is easy to find and can be explored during a short weekend escape in the beautiful city of Vienna or as a stop on your countrywide road trip through Austria.

Vienna is a perfect holiday destination for those who crave a mix of history, culture, and modern amenities. With its distinct architecture, famous museums, and delicious culinary scene, Vienna offers something for everyone.

Take a stroll through the charming streets and alleys to discover hidden gems and enjoy the local atmosphere. Visit this popular landmark in Vienna and immerse yourself in the city's rich history and culture at top attractions, including the remarkable Schönbrunn Palace, St. Stephen's Cathedral, Belvedere Palace, Schönbrunn Palace Park, and Hofburg.

Whether you're looking to indulge in shopping or explore the nightlife, Vienna has it all. Don't forget to sample the delicious cuisine, from traditional dishes to modern fusion.

Experience the best of both worlds in Vienna, a place where the past meets the present, and you'll create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

Click the travel guides below to learn more and get ready to make unforgettable memories in Austria!

Prater is conveniently accessible by various transportation options in Vienna, Austria. If you're flying in, Vienna International Airport is approximately 11.1 miles (17.8 km) away from Vienna. From there, you can easily reach Prater by taxi or shuttle.

For those already in Vienna, buses, taxis, and walking are viable options to reach Prater, which is located 1.3 miles (2.1 km) from the city center. You can also rent a car and drive to Prater, providing flexibility to explore at your leisure. Its exact address is 1020 Vienna, Austria.

With your transportation plans sorted, get ready for an unforgettable experience at Prater!

The best time to explore Prater in Vienna, Austria, is between April and October when the weather is warm and pleasant enough to enjoy the outdoor activities. The amusement park season typically starts in March and lasts until October, with attractions like the iconic Giant Ferris Wheel operating daily. Summer, particularly from June to August, provides long daylight hours facilitating exploration. However, it's worth noting that these months can be crowded with tourists. To avoid the hustle, consider visiting in late spring (April-May) or early fall (September-October), when the park is less crowded yet still vibrant. If you're a fan of unique events, don't miss the 'Prater Festival' usually held at the beginning of May, offering live music, food stalls, and fireworks. Also, the 'Wiener Wiesn-Fest' in late September, a traditional Austrian folk festival, is a cultural treat. Remember, the Prater park itself is open all year round, so a winter stroll can also be a delightful experience, especially with fewer tourists around.

To truly enjoy your visit to Prater, joining a tour that features this popular park in Vienna is highly recommended. As one of Austria's most iconic attractions, Prater draws visitors from around the world. Booking a tour in advance allows you to skip the lines and ensures a smooth, enjoyable experience.

Find the best and most popular tours and tickets to Prater starting at just 14 EUR below.

With a rental car, discovering the popular Prater and Austria's captivating landscapes becomes a breeze, allowing you to explore at your own pace. Upon arrival, international travelers can choose from 3 reputable rental car companies near Vienna International Airport and the city of Vienna, making transportation seamless and efficient.

Rental car companies in Austria cater to a variety of preferences, offering vehicles ranging from compact and midsize to premium, estate, and even camper vans or convertibles. To select the perfect ride, consider your itinerary and specific travel plans in Vienna and beyond.

Conveniently explore Prater and plenty more captivating attractions in Vienna by staying at a top-rated hotel in the center of the city. With comfortable accommodations and easy access to Prater and other notable landmarks, wake up well-rested every day, ready to explore all that Vienna has to offer.

Discover the best hotels for visiting Prater below.

Aside from Prater, Vienna is home to numerous other top attractions waiting to be explored. From museums and architectural masterpieces to sculptures and natural wonders, the city offers a diverse range of sights to behold. For the ultimate sightseeing tour around Vienna, there are a number of attractions every itinerary should include, namely Schönbrunn Palace, St. Stephen's Cathedral, and Belvedere Palace.

Schönbrunn Palace is a bucket-list museum and top attraction in Vienna, drawing numerous travelers and locals every year. As evident by its average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 140,000 reviews, this attraction is a popular place to visit for anyone with time to spend in the city. The exact address of Schönbrunn Palace is Schönbrunner Schloßstraße 47, 1130 Wien, Austria.

Another appreciated attraction in Vienna is St. Stephen's Cathedral. Like Schönbrunn Palace, this is one of the most popular sites to visit in the city. With an impressive average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars among 100,000 visitors, it’s also one of the highest-rated. The exact address of this church is Stephansplatz 3, 1010 Wien, Austria.

Belvedere Palace is also a clear favorite among travelers seeking to experience the uniqueness of Vienna. This museum and top attraction in Vienna has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 67,000 visitors. This attraction is located at the address of Prinz-Eugen-Straße 27, 1030 Wien, Austria.

Check out our full list of top attractions in the city of Vienna below.