[Translate to English:] Donauinselfest © Alexander Müller

Donauinselfest Vienna 2025 – All Information

Whether you simply want to switch off, experience new adventures or gather fresh impressions - in this guide you will find out how to make the most of your summer in Vienna.

Tip for saving money: The Vienna City Card gives you discounts on many sights, free public transport and over 200 benefits - ideal for a weekend or a short trip.

Whether you simply want to switch off, experience new adventures or gather fresh impressions - in this guide you will find out how to make the most of your summer in Vienna.

Tip for saving money: The Vienna City Card gives you discounts on many sights, free public transport and over 200 benefits - ideal for a weekend or a short trip.

Why visit Vienna in summer?

Why visit Vienna in summer? Vienna is not only fascinating for its impressive architecture, rich musical heritage and traditional coffee houses - in the warmer months, the city is transformed into a huge open-air festival. Those who come in summer can look forward to a varied and exciting offer:

  •     Cultural experiences: From classical music events to stage art and cabaret to open-air cinemas
  •     Nature & relaxation: lush green spaces, idyllic bathing waters, riverside paths and nearby woodland areas
  •     Culinary delights for every taste: rustic wine taverns, modern food markets and lots of delicious snacks in between
  •     Pure summer atmosphere: street cafés, hidden picnic spots and cozy outdoor locations

Aclear advantage: Vienna impresses with its high quality of life, cleanliness, safety and excellent infrastructure - all in a surprisingly relaxed atmosphere for a big city.

Why visit Vienna in summer?

Why visit Vienna in summer? Vienna is not only fascinating for its impressive architecture, rich musical heritage and traditional coffee houses - in the warmer months, the city is transformed into a huge open-air festival. Those who come in summer can look forward to a varied and exciting offer:

  •     Cultural experiences: From classical music events to stage art and cabaret to open-air cinemas
  •     Nature & relaxation: lush green spaces, idyllic bathing waters, riverside paths and nearby woodland areas
  •     Culinary delights for every taste: rustic wine taverns, modern food markets and lots of delicious snacks in between
  •     Pure summer atmosphere: street cafés, hidden picnic spots and cozy outdoor locations

Aclear advantage: Vienna impresses with its high quality of life, cleanliness, safety and excellent infrastructure - all in a surprisingly relaxed atmosphere for a big city.

The best time for a summer vacation

The best time for a summer vacation

  •     June & July: Ideal for events of all kinds, mild evenings outdoors and atmospheric open-air festivals
  •     August: A little quieter, as many locals are out of town - a great opportunity to get to know Vienna in a relaxed atmosphere
  •     September: The late summer glow bathes the city in warm light - perfect for quiet moments for two and atmospheric discovery tours

The best time for a summer vacation

The best time for a summer vacation

  •     June & July: Ideal for events of all kinds, mild evenings outdoors and atmospheric open-air festivals
  •     August: A little quieter, as many locals are out of town - a great opportunity to get to know Vienna in a relaxed atmosphere
  •     September: The late summer glow bathes the city in warm light - perfect for quiet moments for two and atmospheric discovery tours

The Viennese summer weather

The summer months in Vienna are mostly pleasantly warm. In June, temperatures usually climb to 20 to 27 °C - ideal for relaxed exploration tours through the city and first trips to the water. July often brings the highest temperatures of the year, often up to 30 °C, accompanied by wonderfully mild evenings - ideal for a visit to breezy bars with a view or atmospheric open-air concerts.

August remains warm, but often seems quieter, as many Viennese travel - perfect for a relaxed stay without the hustle and bustle. Temperatures then range between 22 and 29 °C. In September, summer slowly comes to an end, the days become gentler and the city shines in a golden light. With temperatures between 18 and 25 °C, this is a great time for leisurely excursions, romantic walks or wine hikes.

Practical tip: A small umbrella or a thin jacket can be useful - short summer thunderstorms occasionally occur, but are quickly over again.

The Viennese summer weather

The summer months in Vienna are mostly pleasantly warm. In June, temperatures usually climb to 20 to 27 °C - ideal for relaxed exploration tours through the city and first trips to the water. July often brings the highest temperatures of the year, often up to 30 °C, accompanied by wonderfully mild evenings - ideal for a visit to breezy bars with a view or atmospheric open-air concerts.

August remains warm, but often seems quieter, as many Viennese travel - perfect for a relaxed stay without the hustle and bustle. Temperatures then range between 22 and 29 °C. In September, summer slowly comes to an end, the days become gentler and the city shines in a golden light. With temperatures between 18 and 25 °C, this is a great time for leisurely excursions, romantic walks or wine hikes.

Practical tip: A small umbrella or a thin jacket can be useful - short summer thunderstorms occasionally occur, but are quickly over again.

The best summer activities in Vienna

In Vienna, summer shows its most varied side - with a variety of experiences to suit every taste. Whether you prefer to spend hot days by the water, enjoy cozy evenings at cultural highlights or simply want to collect unforgettable moments with your loved ones - the city offers countless possibilities.

From picnics in the countryside, exciting bike tours along natural paths to open-air concerts and cheerful city festivals: In Vienna, you can enjoy summer in all its facets and discover something new every day.

The best summer activities in Vienna

In Vienna, summer shows its most varied side - with a variety of experiences to suit every taste. Whether you prefer to spend hot days by the water, enjoy cozy evenings at cultural highlights or simply want to collect unforgettable moments with your loved ones - the city offers countless possibilities.

From picnics in the countryside, exciting bike tours along natural paths to open-air concerts and cheerful city festivals: In Vienna, you can enjoy summer in all its facets and discover something new every day.

1. Walk through the Heurigen region from Nussdorf to Kahlenberg

A hike through the vineyards around the Kahlenberg is a real insider tip in summer for anyone who wants to experience Vienna to the full. The trail usually starts in idyllic Nussdorf and leads past beautiful vineyards with spectacular views of the city. Perfect for chatting in peace, taking great photos and stopping off at a traditional Buschenschank in between.

A visit to a wine tavern with friends is the perfect way to round off the day - either with a classic Brettljause and a spritzer or a modern take on regional, creative organic cuisine. It is particularly atmospheric at sunset, when the golden light bathes Vienna in a special atmosphere.

A romantic tip: drink a glass of wine on the terrace on the Kahlenberg and enjoy the view together - unforgettable summer memories are guaranteed.

1. Walk through the Heurigen region from Nussdorf to Kahlenberg

A hike through the vineyards around the Kahlenberg is a real insider tip in summer for anyone who wants to experience Vienna to the full. The trail usually starts in idyllic Nussdorf and leads past beautiful vineyards with spectacular views of the city. Perfect for chatting in peace, taking great photos and stopping off at a traditional Buschenschank in between.

A visit to a wine tavern with friends is the perfect way to round off the day - either with a classic Brettljause and a spritzer or a modern take on regional, creative organic cuisine. It is particularly atmospheric at sunset, when the golden light bathes Vienna in a special atmosphere.

A romantic tip: drink a glass of wine on the terrace on the Kahlenberg and enjoy the view together - unforgettable summer memories are guaranteed.

2. Early walk in Schönbrunn Palace Park - tranquillity, nature & imperial ambience

If you want to experience a summer morning in Vienna in a special way, the best way to start is with a quiet stroll through the extensive Schönbrunn Palace Park. While the city is still sleeping peacefully, you can enjoy the spacious avenues, the babbling fountains and the impressive view of the palace almost to yourself.

The fresh morning air and the view of slowly awakening Vienna from the Gloriette create a unique moment to start the day - ideal for anyone who is looking for peace and quiet, enjoys taking photos or simply wants to consciously experience the moment.

2. Early walk in Schönbrunn Palace Park - tranquillity, nature & imperial ambience

If you want to experience a summer morning in Vienna in a special way, the best way to start is with a quiet stroll through the extensive Schönbrunn Palace Park. While the city is still sleeping peacefully, you can enjoy the spacious avenues, the babbling fountains and the impressive view of the palace almost to yourself.

The fresh morning air and the view of slowly awakening Vienna from the Gloriette create a unique moment to start the day - ideal for anyone who is looking for peace and quiet, enjoys taking photos or simply wants to consciously experience the moment.

3. Cultural picnic in Türkenschanzpark - enjoyment in the open air

Grab a cozy blanket, pack some tasty snacks and refreshing drinks and make yourself comfortable in the idyllic Türkenschanzpark. In summer, this green retreat regularly transforms into a stage for small, fine cultural events: from live music and readings to theater performances.

Surrounded by old trees and blooming flowers, you can relax and listen to the sounds, experience exciting stories or discover new artists - all in a relaxed atmosphere in the middle of nature. The cultural picnic in Türkenschanzpark is the perfect opportunity to combine culture and nature, enjoy the summer to the full and spend unforgettable hours with friends or family.

3. Cultural picnic in Türkenschanzpark - enjoyment in the open air

Grab a cozy blanket, pack some tasty snacks and refreshing drinks and make yourself comfortable in the idyllic Türkenschanzpark. In summer, this green retreat regularly transforms into a stage for small, fine cultural events: from live music and readings to theater performances.

Surrounded by old trees and blooming flowers, you can relax and listen to the sounds, experience exciting stories or discover new artists - all in a relaxed atmosphere in the middle of nature. The cultural picnic in Türkenschanzpark is the perfect opportunity to combine culture and nature, enjoy the summer to the full and spend unforgettable hours with friends or family.

4. The Vienna Prater - adventure, nostalgia and relaxation in the middle of the city

The Vienna Prater combines thrills, tradition and relaxation in a unique way - right in the heart of the city. With more than 250 attractions, there is something for everyone here: from the famous Ferris wheel, which offers a spectacular panoramic view over Vienna, to fast-paced roller coasters, spooky ghost trains and the exciting Freefall Tower, to classic carousels and fun bumper cars.

In between, you can fortify yourself with typical delicacies such as langos, ice cream or roasted almonds or enjoy a refreshing drink in a shady garden. If you want to relax afterwards, you can take a leisurely walk or bike ride along the green Praterallee and reach the Jesuitenwiese - a wonderful place for a picnic or a relaxing break in the shade.

Whether you are looking for adventure, want to reminisce about your childhood or just want to spend a relaxing summer's day, a visit to the Prater is simply part of summer in Vienna for many people.

4. The Vienna Prater - adventure, nostalgia and relaxation in the middle of the city

The Vienna Prater combines thrills, tradition and relaxation in a unique way - right in the heart of the city. With more than 250 attractions, there is something for everyone here: from the famous Ferris wheel, which offers a spectacular panoramic view over Vienna, to fast-paced roller coasters, spooky ghost trains and the exciting Freefall Tower, to classic carousels and fun bumper cars.

In between, you can fortify yourself with typical delicacies such as langos, ice cream or roasted almonds or enjoy a refreshing drink in a shady garden. If you want to relax afterwards, you can take a leisurely walk or bike ride along the green Praterallee and reach the Jesuitenwiese - a wonderful place for a picnic or a relaxing break in the shade.

Whether you are looking for adventure, want to reminisce about your childhood or just want to spend a relaxing summer's day, a visit to the Prater is simply part of summer in Vienna for many people.

5. Summer flair on the Danube Canal - relaxed walks and urban lifestyle

In summer, the Danube Canal becomes Vienna's hippest open-air living room. Right on the banks, trendy bars, colorful street art, cozy hammocks and loungers invite you to relax with a cool drink and consciously enjoy the time. Whether it's a romantic stroll along the water, a relaxed get-together with friends or capturing spectacular sunsets in photos - this is where vibrant city life meets a laid-back summer atmosphere.

5. Summer flair on the Danube Canal - relaxed walks and urban lifestyle

In summer, the Danube Canal becomes Vienna's hippest open-air living room. Right on the banks, trendy bars, colorful street art, cozy hammocks and loungers invite you to relax with a cool drink and consciously enjoy the time. Whether it's a romantic stroll along the water, a relaxed get-together with friends or capturing spectacular sunsets in photos - this is where vibrant city life meets a laid-back summer atmosphere.

6. Summer enjoyment in the green outdoor pool with a view over Vienna

A visit to one of Vienna's traditional outdoor pools is like a little trip back in time to decades gone by. The Krapfenwaldlbad in particular impresses with its charming retro ambience, reminiscent of the pools of the 1920s. Surrounded by greenery and with a wonderful view of the city, you can relax here on hot summer days, swim in the cool water or simply enjoy the sun on the sunbathing lawn. The nostalgic flair combined with modern facilities makes it the perfect retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city - ideal for families, friends or anyone who wants to experience that summer feeling with a touch of history.

6. Summer enjoyment in the green outdoor pool with a view over Vienna

A visit to one of Vienna's traditional outdoor pools is like a little trip back in time to decades gone by. The Krapfenwaldlbad in particular impresses with its charming retro ambience, reminiscent of the pools of the 1920s. Surrounded by greenery and with a wonderful view of the city, you can relax here on hot summer days, swim in the cool water or simply enjoy the sun on the sunbathing lawn. The nostalgic flair combined with modern facilities makes it the perfect retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city - ideal for families, friends or anyone who wants to experience that summer feeling with a touch of history.

7. Relaxing hours swimming and sunbathing on the Old Danube - a green paradise in the heart of Vienna

Just a few minutes from Vienna's city center is a real summer paradise: the Old Danube. The calm waters with their crystal-clear water are perfect for swimming, paddling or pedal boating - surrounded by green nature and idyllic boathouses. If you prefer to take it easy, you can sunbathe on one of the bathing spots or jetties, bring a picnic or stop off at one of the inviting lakeside restaurants.

Whether you want to be active or simply relax - on the Old Danube, you can enjoy that vacation feeling in the middle of the city. An evening boat trip with a view of the sunset is particularly beautiful - pure romance included.

7. Relaxing hours swimming and sunbathing on the Old Danube - a green paradise in the heart of Vienna

Just a few minutes from Vienna's city center is a real summer paradise: the Old Danube. The calm waters with their crystal-clear water are perfect for swimming, paddling or pedal boating - surrounded by green nature and idyllic boathouses. If you prefer to take it easy, you can sunbathe on one of the bathing spots or jetties, bring a picnic or stop off at one of the inviting lakeside restaurants.

Whether you want to be active or simply relax - on the Old Danube, you can enjoy that vacation feeling in the middle of the city. An evening boat trip with a view of the sunset is particularly beautiful - pure romance included.

8. Open-air cinema above the rooftops of Vienna - movie nights with a view

A very special summer cinema awaits you on the roof of the main library: the “Kino am Dach”. As soon as the sun slowly disappears behind the rows of houses and the city is bathed in warm light, the cinematic pleasure begins here in the open air.
You can enjoy exciting, moving or humorous films in a cozy atmosphere - accompanied by a glass of wine, crackling popcorn and a wonderful panoramic view over Vienna.
A tip for balmy evenings with a special flair - ideal for dates with a romantic touch or relaxing hours with loved ones. A real highlight of the Viennese cultural summer!

8. Open-air cinema above the rooftops of Vienna - movie nights with a view

A very special summer cinema awaits you on the roof of the main library: the “Kino am Dach”. As soon as the sun slowly disappears behind the rows of houses and the city is bathed in warm light, the cinematic pleasure begins here in the open air.
You can enjoy exciting, moving or humorous films in a cozy atmosphere - accompanied by a glass of wine, crackling popcorn and a wonderful panoramic view over Vienna.
A tip for balmy evenings with a special flair - ideal for dates with a romantic touch or relaxing hours with loved ones. A real highlight of the Viennese cultural summer!

9. Botanical Garden and Belvedere Palace - Nature meets Art

The Vienna Botanical Garden is a true Eldorado for all those who appreciate plants and nature. Over 11,000 different species from all over the world are waiting to be discovered. A stroll through the diverse themed areas is particularly appealing, from native alpine plants to tropical exotics.

Just a stone's throw away is the magnificent Belvedere Palace, which delights visitors with its impressive art collections in a historic setting. A visit to the Upper or Lower Belvedere can be wonderfully combined with a relaxing stroll through the garden.

Natural beauty and cultural highlights come together here to create a special summer experience in the heart of Vienna.

9. Botanical Garden and Belvedere Palace - Nature meets Art

The Vienna Botanical Garden is a true Eldorado for all those who appreciate plants and nature. Over 11,000 different species from all over the world are waiting to be discovered. A stroll through the diverse themed areas is particularly appealing, from native alpine plants to tropical exotics.

Just a stone's throw away is the magnificent Belvedere Palace, which delights visitors with its impressive art collections in a historic setting. A visit to the Upper or Lower Belvedere can be wonderfully combined with a relaxing stroll through the garden.

Natural beauty and cultural highlights come together here to create a special summer experience in the heart of Vienna.

10. Roses in bloom in the Volksgarten - Vienna's fragrant summer jewel

The Volksgarten is one of the most enchanting places in Vienna in summer, especially when the numerous rose bushes are in full bloom. Between the historic gardens, colorful seas of flowers and the panorama of the Hofburg, it is a wonderful place to stroll, relax and enjoy the atmosphere to the full.

A perfect retreat to escape the hectic city life for a moment, recharge your batteries and be enchanted by the mixture of nature and history.

10. Roses in bloom in the Volksgarten - Vienna's fragrant summer jewel

The Volksgarten is one of the most enchanting places in Vienna in summer, especially when the numerous rose bushes are in full bloom. Between the historic gardens, colorful seas of flowers and the panorama of the Hofburg, it is a wonderful place to stroll, relax and enjoy the atmosphere to the full.

A perfect retreat to escape the hectic city life for a moment, recharge your batteries and be enchanted by the mixture of nature and history.

11. Brunnenmarkt & Yppenplatz - Vienna's colorful hotspot with international flair

The lively heart of modern Vienna beats in Brunnenmarkt and around Yppenplatz. With its diverse range of exotic dishes, creative street food stalls and a young, alternative atmosphere, this district invites you to discover and stroll around. Here you can try new culinary highlights, stroll through exciting little boutiques and soak up the multicultural flair to the full.

11. Brunnenmarkt & Yppenplatz - Vienna's colorful hotspot with international flair

The lively heart of modern Vienna beats in Brunnenmarkt and around Yppenplatz. With its diverse range of exotic dishes, creative street food stalls and a young, alternative atmosphere, this district invites you to discover and stroll around. Here you can try new culinary highlights, stroll through exciting little boutiques and soak up the multicultural flair to the full.

12. Summer program in the MuseumsQuartier (MQ)

From the end of May to the end of September, the central courtyard of the MuseumsQuartier becomes Vienna's vibrant open-air stage - and admission is free. Whether after a visit to the museum or a day at work: concerts, plays, readings, panel discussions and film screenings invite you to linger and relax. Special highlights include the “O-Töne” literature festival, the “frame[o]ut” film festival and the “MQ Tunes” concert series, which presents new talent from the Austrian music scene every Wednesday.

12. Summer program in the MuseumsQuartier (MQ)

From the end of May to the end of September, the central courtyard of the MuseumsQuartier becomes Vienna's vibrant open-air stage - and admission is free. Whether after a visit to the museum or a day at work: concerts, plays, readings, panel discussions and film screenings invite you to linger and relax. Special highlights include the “O-Töne” literature festival, the “frame[o]ut” film festival and the “MQ Tunes” concert series, which presents new talent from the Austrian music scene every Wednesday.

13. Ice cream parlor discovery tour through Vienna

Treat yourself to a journey through extraordinary ice cream flavors - from vegan basil and lemon ice cream to fragrant lavender and classic Sachertorte flavors. On your tour, you will stop at popular ice cream parlors such as Tichy, Zanoni and the vegan ice cream parlor Veganista. A true feast for your taste buds!

13. Ice cream parlor discovery tour through Vienna

Treat yourself to a journey through extraordinary ice cream flavors - from vegan basil and lemon ice cream to fragrant lavender and classic Sachertorte flavors. On your tour, you will stop at popular ice cream parlors such as Tichy, Zanoni and the vegan ice cream parlor Veganista. A true feast for your taste buds!

14. Stand-up paddling on the New Danube - active on the water

For all those who like to keep moving in summer, a round of stand-up paddling on the New Danube is just the thing. Hire a board, stand on the water and enjoy gliding silently along the modern city backdrop. The light breeze, the gentle lapping and the sweeping views turn every tour into a little adventure - perfect for staying active and relaxed at the same time on hot days.

14. Stand-up paddling on the New Danube - active on the water

For all those who like to keep moving in summer, a round of stand-up paddling on the New Danube is just the thing. Hire a board, stand on the water and enjoy gliding silently along the modern city backdrop. The light breeze, the gentle lapping and the sweeping views turn every tour into a little adventure - perfect for staying active and relaxed at the same time on hot days.

15. Evening walk through the 1st district - experience Vienna's old town

When the heat of the day subsides, Vienna's city center unfolds its very special charm. Stroll through the winding alleyways around St. Stephen's Cathedral, past historic palaces, illuminated facades and cozy pavement cafés. Highlights such as Kärntner Straße, Graben and Michaelerplatz are particularly atmospheric in the evening - and invite you to linger, take photos or enjoy a drink outside.

Tip: End your walk in Burggarten or Albertinaplatz with a view of the opera - a magical place at sunset.

15. Evening walk through the 1st district - experience Vienna's old town

When the heat of the day subsides, Vienna's city center unfolds its very special charm. Stroll through the winding alleyways around St. Stephen's Cathedral, past historic palaces, illuminated facades and cozy pavement cafés. Highlights such as Kärntner Straße, Graben and Michaelerplatz are particularly atmospheric in the evening - and invite you to linger, take photos or enjoy a drink outside.

Tip: End your walk in Burggarten or Albertinaplatz with a view of the opera - a magical place at sunset.

The best passes for your stay in Vienna

Whether it's a city trip, cultural weekend or family vacation - there's a suitable City Pass for every type of visit to Vienna:

The Vienna City Card is perfect for anyone who wants to travel flexibly on public transport and save on tickets.

The Vienna PASS is ideal if you want to experience as many highlights as possible - including practical HOP ON HOP OFF buses.

And the Flexi PASS is perfect for those who like to be particularly flexible: you choose which sights you want to visit - without any time pressure.

The best passes for your stay in Vienna

Whether it's a city trip, cultural weekend or family vacation - there's a suitable City Pass for every type of visit to Vienna:

The Vienna City Card is perfect for anyone who wants to travel flexibly on public transport and save on tickets.

The Vienna PASS is ideal if you want to experience as many highlights as possible - including practical HOP ON HOP OFF buses.

And the Flexi PASS is perfect for those who like to be particularly flexible: you choose which sights you want to visit - without any time pressure.

Vienna City Card

  • Free public transport + over 200 discounts

  • Ideal for city hoppers & culture lovers:inside

You can buy them here.

 

Vienna City Card

  • Free public transport + over 200 discounts

  • Ideal for city hoppers & culture lovers:inside

You can buy them here.

 

Vienna PASS

  • Admission to top sights (e.g. Schönbrunn, Albertina, Hofburg)
  • Incl. HOP ON HOP OFF

Flexi PASS

  • Free choice of 2-5 attractions
  • For flexible scheduling

You can find out more on the Vienna Pass website.

Vienna PASS

  • Admission to top sights (e.g. Schönbrunn, Albertina, Hofburg)
  • Incl. HOP ON HOP OFF

Flexi PASS

  • Free choice of 2-5 attractions
  • For flexible scheduling

You can find out more on the Vienna Pass website.

Vienna in summer - relaxed, lively & surprising

Vienna in summer - relaxed, lively & surprisingWhen the sun is in the sky for longer, Vienna unfolds its very special charm: a city where history and the present merge harmoniously, where it is calm and full of energy at the same time. The capital fascinates with its imperial flair and urban lightness - a place that inspires, delights and invites you to pause for a moment.

Whether you're just passing through for a day or planning a few relaxing summer days: in Vienna you'll find green retreats, idyllic baths, cozy pavement cafés and a variety of cultural offerings in the open air.

So, grab your sunglasses, take your favorite people with you - and off you go to unique moments, warm evenings and little adventures in the heart of the city.

Vienna in summer - relaxed, lively & surprising

Vienna in summer - relaxed, lively & surprisingWhen the sun is in the sky for longer, Vienna unfolds its very special charm: a city where history and the present merge harmoniously, where it is calm and full of energy at the same time. The capital fascinates with its imperial flair and urban lightness - a place that inspires, delights and invites you to pause for a moment.

Whether you're just passing through for a day or planning a few relaxing summer days: in Vienna you'll find green retreats, idyllic baths, cozy pavement cafés and a variety of cultural offerings in the open air.

So, grab your sunglasses, take your favorite people with you - and off you go to unique moments, warm evenings and little adventures in the heart of the city.

Under the motto "Your Island. Real Moments," the Donauinselfest will take place from June 20th to 22nd, 2025 – one of the largest, free open-air festivals in the world. Between 2 and 3 million visitors celebrate each year over three days on Vienna's Danube Island. Around 250,000 people are on site at any one time.

No tickets are required. Access is subject to security checks. Popular stages may be temporarily closed if overcrowded – it's worth arriving early!

What is the Donauinselfest?

The Donauinselfest offers music, cabaret, sports, culinary delights, and presentations from clubs, businesses, and organizations. The organizer is the SPÖ Vienna in cooperation with the City of Vienna and numerous local partners.

The festival grounds extend over 4.5 km, bounded by the Nordbrücke in the north and the Reichsbrücke in the south. It includes 16 stages and many themed areas with special program focuses.

 In 2025, there will be a special focus on inclusion: There will be shuttle and escort services, a main stage program partially translated into sign language, and five quiet zones for retreat.
 

Quick Facts

  • Date: June 20–22, 2025
  • Admission: Free
  • Stages: 16
  • Times: Approx. midday to approximately midnight
  • Visitors: 2–3 million over 3 days
  • Focus: Inclusion, democracy, diversity

Donauinselfest: 2025 Program

In addition to international stars, there will be a focus on Austrian acts. The music program will be complemented by cabaret, dance, podcasts, and more.

Rock the Island Contest

The young musicians' competition offers a stage for young artists. The winners receive cash prizes or coaching and perform live at the festival. A separate category for children will be judged by a jury.

Inclusion Concert with Milow

The Belgian singer Milow will perform on Friday morning. A host and a digital sign language avatar will accompany the concert.

Red Bull Symphonic – Johann Strauss 2025

On June 20th, the works of Johann Strauss Jr. will merge with drum & bass by Camo & Krooked on the FM4 stage, supported by the Vienna Symphony Orchestra under the direction of Christian Kolonovits.

Vienna Volksoper – "Killing Carmen"

On June 19th, the Volksoper will present excerpts from its modern "Carmen" adaptation, "Killing Carmen – an opera-musical throwback." The full performance will follow in the fall.

"Extra Wow – The 2 at 2"

On Saturday, Rolf Rüdiger and Robert Steiner's radio show will be recorded live – a cross-generational family highlight.

Wiener Städtische Versicherung / Sicheres Wien Insel

Organizations such as water rescue and rescue dogs will present their work. There will be demonstrations of emergencies and first aid tips.

Other Program Items

The Democracy Island offers interviews with a wide variety of people on the topic of democracy, as well as hands-on activities. The Austrian Armed Forces will set up sports courses and stations for numerous sporting activities that invite participation. The Tourism Island will feature a diverse program on Thailand on Friday and Korea on Saturday, including K-Pop acts. On the Austrian Lotteries Sports Island stage, everyone can try their hand at karaoke and perform. The Wiener Städtische Versicherung Schlager Island will present artists from the Schlager genre, DJs will perform on the OBI / kronehit Electronic Music Stage, and international and local rock acts will present their music on the Bank Austria / Radio 88.6 Rock Stage. Of course, there will be other stages where numerous artists will perform. You can find the full program here.

Visiting the Donauinselfest with children?

The festival is family-friendly. The Okidoki Kinderfreunde stage features a dedicated children's program with songs, clowns, magic, and interactive stations. Child-friendly activities also feature on other stages.

A visit with children is especially recommended during the day. Crowds increase in the evening, and it gets louder and more crowded. Strollers are permitted, but not ideal due to some uneven paths.

Important information:

• Bags larger than A3 are prohibited.
• Only 0.5L water bottles are permitted.
• Unaccompanied children will be taken to the Kinderfreunde zone.
• Tip: Provide your child with a wristband/note with contact details.

What's the best way to get to the festival?

Public transportation is the best way:

• U1: Donauinsel station
• U6: Handelskai or Neue Donau
• Trams 30, 31, 33: Floridsdorfer Brücke
• Long-distance trains: Transfer to U1 or U6

Arriving by bike is also possible – the ARBÖ offers secure bicycle garages.

Arriving by car is not recommended. Use Park & ​​Ride and transfer to public transport.

Check the site and program schedule in advance to ensure you arrive at your desired acts on time. The paths on the island are long, and within the grounds, you can only get around on foot.

 

Dos & Don'ts

Dos

Check the site and program schedule
Agree on meeting points with friends
Sunscreen & hat
Secure valuables securely
Be patient upon entry and departure
Provide children with emergency contacts

Don'ts

Arrive by car
Bring umbrellas (even small ones)
Bring alcohol & glass bottles
Bring food
Bags over A3
Leave trash lying around
Underestimate distances

The right outfit

Of course, the right outfit for an open-air festival is very individual and also weather-dependent. In warm weather and strong sunshine, bringing sunscreen and a hat is essential.

In cold and wet weather, you should dress accordingly warmly and waterproof. There are few sheltered areas on the Danube Island, and access to public transport is sometimes far apart. So you have to be prepared for the fact that you won't be able to find shelter quickly in the event of sudden changes in weather conditions.

The Donauinselfest is colorful and diverse, and all styles are welcome. Since many children attend the festival all day, some consideration should be given to their clothing choices.


What to bring

• Sunscreen and hat
• Rain poncho or rain jacket
• 0.5L bottle of water
• Site map • Program plan
• Bag or backpack smaller than A3
• Cash; some stalls and vendors may not accept card payments
• Warm clothes for the evening

 

The history of the Donauinselfest

The Donauinselfest has been held annually on Vienna's Danube Island since 1984 and is organized by the SPÖ Vienna political party. Numerous Viennese businesses sponsor the festival, operate stages, or offer interactive and interactive stations.

The festival's predecessor was a "cultural spring festival" in 1983, which attracted ten times the expected number of spectators. Since then, the festival has continued to develop. The number of stages grew, and in addition to concerts of various musical genres, such as pop, rock, classical, Schlager, hip hop, and much more, more and more representatives of cabaret artists also performed. Sports activities, food stands, sales booths, and information stands also expanded the program over the years.

Until 2008, a large fireworks display lasting up to 20 minutes was part of the program. However, as the fireworks attracted increasing numbers of spectators and caused problems with everyone leaving after the fireworks, it was decided to discontinue this display. Now, the focus is entirely on the stage and participatory program.

The most well-attended performance took place in 1995. Approximately 250,000 fans watched the Kelly Family's performance. Perhaps the most legendary performance was Falco's 1993 performance in front of over 100,000 spectators. Despite rain, thunderstorms, and lightning strikes, the concert was completed, and fans and musicians braved the weather.

In 2020 and 2021, the Donauinselfest took place in a modified format due to the coronavirus pandemic. Over several weeks in the summer, artists performed throughout the city on a converted bus. In September, a "finale" took place on the Donauinsel, featuring performances by several artists. Tickets for this finale were available for prize draws.

Since 2022, the festival has returned to its original format.

The Danube Island Festival offers fun and entertainment for guests of all ages. Why not combine your visit to the festival with sightseeing in Vienna and explore the city with the HOP ON HOP OFF buses from Vienna Sightseeing! You can also reach the Danube Island Festival with the blue line!