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.

Discover Prater, a prime feature of Vienna, in the vibrant Leopoldstadt. Prater is situated at 1020 Vienna, Austria, just a short distance from Madame Tussauds Vienna and Hundertwasser House, making it a perfect addition to your itinerary.

In the vicinity of Prater, various dining and shopping options await, alongside a lively atmosphere that captures the essence of local life. This location serves as a perfect starting point or a key highlight during your exploration of Vienna, a city in Austria rich with cultural and adventurous activities.

When planning your trip, timing is key. Discover the best time to visit Vienna to fully enjoy the seasonal charm of Prater. Explore travel trips and ideas on this city from the comprehensive Vienna travel guide for an unforgettable adventure.

Prater is conveniently accessible by various transportation options in Vienna, Austria. If you're flying in or planning to book a flight to Vienna, Vienna International Airport is approximately 11.1 miles (17.8 km) away from the city center. 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. 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 guided tour of this renowned amusement park in Vienna is highly recommended. As one of Austria's most iconic attractions, Prater draws visitors from across the globe, often leading to long queues and limited availability.

Booking a tour in advance allows you to skip the lines and ensures a smooth, enjoyable experience. With the biggest selection of tours and tickets in Vienna, you’re sure to find an option that fits your schedule and preferences.

Find the best and most popular tours and tickets to Prater starting at just 14 EUR below. Enjoy benefits like free cancellation and 24/7 customer support for added convenience.

With everything seamlessly arranged for your trip to Vienna, you can simply pack your bags and look forward to exploring Prater.

Keep reading to discover the best options for experiencing this iconic amusement park in Austria.

Upon arriving at Vienna International Airport, you’ll find 3 reputable rental car companies conveniently situated near the city of Vienna.

Click 'See More' to unlock other affordable car rental options in Vienna.

Choosing the right accommodation near Prater from the widest selection of hotels and places to stay in Vienna can truly make all the difference in your trip. Not only will you be within a comfortable distance from Prater, but you’ll also enjoy the best rates available, backed by 24/7 customer service and glowing reviews.

To help you make the most of your visit, we’ve curated a handpicked list of top-rated hotels nearby.

Beyond Prater, Vienna boasts plenty more landmarks that make every trip unforgettable. From museum to museum, the top attractions in Vienna offer experiences you won’t want to miss.

One of the most notable attractions to visit while in Vienna is Schönbrunn Palace, located at Schönbrunner Schloßstraße 47, 1130 Wien, Austria. This well-known museum enhances your time in the city.

Whether you plan a short visit or take time to explore fully, St. Stephen's Cathedral is worth seeing when you're in Vienna. It's a popular church that’s perfect for rounding out your itinerary. You’ll find it at Stephansplatz 3, 1010 Wien, Austria.

For an unforgettable addition to your itinerary, a visit to Belvedere Palace completes any trip to Vienna. This museum draws visitors with its unique appeal, making it an essential stop on your journey. Located at Prinz-Eugen-Straße 27, 1030 Wien, Austria, its surroundings offer plenty of reasons to linger a little longer.

The city's top sights offer a wide variety of experiences to make your trip truly memorable. Check out the full list of top attractions in Vienna below to discover even more incredible places to explore.