Things to do in Vienna in summer

Vienna in Summer is vibrant, relaxed – and full of surprises. While many big cities swelter in the heat, Vienna impresses with shady green spaces, cultural open-air highlights, refreshing swimming spots right in the city – and a wealth of culinary delights.

Whether you're looking to unwind, explore, or find new inspiration – this guide shows you how to make the most of your summer in Vienna.

Bonus tip: With the Vienna City Card, you’ll get discounts on admission fees, free use of public transport, and access to over 200 additional benefits – perfect for a weekend getaway or a short trip to the capital.

Vienna impresses not only with grand architecture, musical heritage, and charming coffeehouses – in summer, the city transforms into a vibrant open-air stage. Visitors can look forward to a wide variety of experiences: 

Whether you're exploring world-famous sights or discovering local gems, summer in Vienna promises unforgettable moments at every turn.

• Cultural highlights: From classical concerts and theatre to cabaret and open-air cinemas

• Nature & relaxation: Lush parks, refreshing bathing lakes, riverbanks, and nearby forests

• Culinary variety: Cozy wine taverns (Heurige), trendy street food markets, and everything in between

• Pure summer vibes: Outdoor cafés, shady picnic spots, and laid-back open-air bars

A great bonus: Vienna stands out for its safety, cleanliness, and excellent accessibility – all paired with a surprisingly relaxed atmosphere for a major city.

• June & July: Perfect for warm evenings, cultural events, and vibrant open-air festivals – the city is buzzing with life.

• August: A bit quieter as many locals head off on vacation, making it ideal for relaxed sightseeing and exploring hidden gems.

• September: Late summer at its best – golden light, pleasant temperatures, and a romantic mood that's perfect for strolls, wine hikes, and cozy evenings.

No matter when you come, summer in Vienna offers the ideal mix of energy and ease.

Vienna’s summer is usually pleasantly warm and ideal for enjoying the city outdoors.

In June, temperatures range between 20 and 27 °C – perfect for relaxed city strolls and the first dips in the water. July is often the hottest month, with temperatures reaching up to 30 °C and plenty of balmy evenings – ideal for rooftop bars or open-air concerts. August stays summery, though things tend to quiet down a bit as many locals go on vacation. Expect temperatures between 22 and 29 °C. In September, the heat eases and the city is bathed in golden light – with 18 to 25 °C, it’s the perfect time for romantic walks, wine hikes, and late-summer excursions.

Tip: A light umbrella or thin jacket can be useful – short summer storms may occur, but they usually pass quickly.

Summer in Vienna has something for everyone – a colorful mix of activities that leaves nothing to be desired. Whether you prefer to spend hot days by the water, enjoy warm evenings at cultural events, or create unforgettable memories with friends and family, Vienna has just what you're looking for.

From relaxed picnics in the city’s green oases and exciting bike rides through nature reserves to open-air concerts and vibrant street festivals – here you'll find the best ideas to discover Vienna’s many beautiful sides and make the most of your summer.

In summer, the Danube Canal is transformed into Vienna's hippest outdoor living room. Right by the water, cool bars, colorful street art, hammocks and sun loungers invite you to relax with a drink and enjoy the time. Whether it's a romantic stroll, a relaxed get-together with friends or impressive photos of the sunset - this is the perfect place to combine a lively city atmosphere with a casual summer mood.

A summer insider tip for anyone who wants to experience Vienna with all their senses: a hike through the vineyards around the Kahlenberg. It usually starts in charming Nussdorf - from there the trail leads through picturesque vineyards with fantastic views over the city. Perfect for relaxed conversations, beautiful souvenir photos and a stop or two at a traditional wine tavern.

The crowning glory? A visit to a wine tavern with friends - the classic way with a Brettljause and spritzer or the modern way with creative, regional organic cuisine. It's particularly magical at sunset, when the golden light falls over Vienna and the view is enchanting.

Romantic tip: enjoy a glass on the panoramic terrace on the Kahlenberg and let your gaze wander over the city together - unforgettable summer moments guaranteed.

Just a few minutes from the city center lies 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 charming boathouses. If you prefer to relax, you can sunbathe on one of the bathing spots or jetties, bring a picnic or stop off at one of the cozy lakeside restaurants.

Whether you want to get active or just relax - on the Old Danube you can experience that vacation feeling in the middle of Vienna. Especially beautiful: an evening boat trip with a view of the sunset - romance included.

If you want to experience the imperial side of summer mornings in Vienna, the best way to start the day is with an early walk through the magnificent grounds of Schönbrunn Palace. When the city is still asleep, the extensive garden with its avenues, fountains and view of the palace is almost yours alone.

The cool morning air and the view of awakening Vienna from the Gloriette make for a magical start to the day - perfect for anyone who loves peace and quiet, likes to take photos or simply wants to consciously enjoy themselves.

The Volksgarten is one of Vienna’s most charming places in summer – especially when hundreds of rose bushes are in full bloom. Surrounded by classical garden architecture, fragrant roses in every color, and a view of the Hofburg, it’s the perfect place for a stroll, to relax, or simply to enjoy the beauty of the moment.

An ideal spot to briefly escape the bustle of the city, find peace, and recharge amid a splendor of blossoms and history.

The Danube Island is Vienna’s longest adventure playground for sunseekers, sports enthusiasts, and anyone who wants to fully enjoy the warm season. Miles of riverside paths invite you to cycle, jog, or inline skate, while wide meadows and natural swimming spots offer perfect places to relax and soak up the sun.

For a bit of variety, there are trendy summer bars, small stages with live music, and the chance to try stand-up paddling or pedal boating. Whether you're active or just chilling in a hammock – the Danube Island is where Vienna’s vibrant summer spirit truly comes to life.

The City Park impresses not only with its lush greenery but also with its musical flair. Spread out your blanket, bring along some tasty snacks, and enjoy the warm evening hours in golden light as you gaze at the iconic Johann Strauss monument. It’s the perfect place to wind down the day with friends and enjoy relaxed conversation.

From the end of May to the end of September, the main courtyard of the MuseumsQuartier transforms into Vienna’s lively open-air stage – with free admission. After a museum visit or work, concerts, theater performances, readings, discussions, and film screenings invite you to relax and stay awhile.

Special highlights include the literature festival “O-Töne,” the film festival “frame[o]ut,” and the concert series “MQ Tunes,” which showcases fresh talents from the local music scene every Wednesday.

A special summer experience is offered by the “Cinema on the Roof” on the roof of the main library. Under the open sky, you can watch selected films here while the sun slowly sets behind Vienna’s skyline. With popcorn, a glass of wine, and the impressive view over the city, every evening becomes an unforgettable highlight – perfect for romantic dates or relaxed gatherings with friends.

The Vienna Prater offers the perfect mix of action, nostalgia, and relaxation – right in the middle of the city. At the famous Prater, you’ll find over 250 attractions: from the iconic Ferris wheel with breathtaking views over Vienna, to wild roller coasters, ghost trains, and freefall towers, as well as nostalgic carousels and bumper cars.

In between, there are classic snacks like langos, ice cream, or roasted almonds – or a cool drink in the shady beer garden. If you want to relax afterwards, you can walk or cycle along the green Praterallee to Jesuitenwiese – ideal for a picnic or a shady break.

Whether it’s adventure, childhood memories, or just a relaxed afternoon, the Prater is simply a must in summer.

Whether it’s a city trip, a cultural weekend, or a family vacation – there’s a suitable city pass for every type of visit to Vienna:
The Vienna City Card is perfect for those who want to get around flexibly using public transport while saving on entrance fees.
The Vienna PASS is ideal if you want to experience as many highlights as possible – including convenient hop-on hop-off buses.
And for those who prefer maximum flexibility, the Flexi PASS is the right choice: you choose which attractions to visit, all without any time pressure.

Free public transport + over 200 discounts
Ideal for city hoppers & culture lovers

You can buy them here.

Vienna PASS

• Entry to top attractions (e.g., Schönbrunn, Albertina, Hofburg)

• Includes HOP ON HOP OFF bus

Flexi PASS

• Choose freely from 2–5 attractions

• For flexible scheduling

You can find more information on the Vienna Pass website.

When the days get longer, Vienna shows itself from perhaps its most beautiful side: traditional and modern, peaceful yet full of life. The city captivates with its blend of imperial history and urban vibe – a place that inspires, surprises, and invites you to linger.

Whether you have just one day or several summer days to stay, Vienna offers green oases, refreshing outdoor pools, charming sidewalk cafés, and a varied cultural program under the open sky.

So: put on your sunglasses, gather your favorite people – and get ready for special experiences, warm evenings, and unforgettable moments right in the heart of the city.