How do I get to the Vienna Kayak Tour?

Our meeting point is directly outside the U1 Metro Station “Alte Donau”. From Stephansplatz (City Center), it is a direct 10-minute ride on the red line.

Is kayaking in Vienna safe for beginners?

Yes! The Old Danube has no commercial shipping traffic and no current. It is a calm lake environment, and our RLSS certified guides ensure a safe, relaxed experience for all fitness levels.

What should I wear for a kayak tour in Vienna?

We recommend quick-drying sportswear or swimwear, a sun hat, and flip-flops. We provide waterproof dry bags for your valuables and phone.

Do you have both single and double kayaks available?

Yes, we do! If you’re a beginner, or you just prefer an slightly easier paddle, you may want to jump in a double kayak with your travel partner, otherwise we have loads of single kayaks too.

Is there somewhere to store my things while we're out on the water?

You can store anything that you don’t really need out on the water at our lakeside location – we will lock everything up and those items will be waiting for you on our return.

Is the Vienna Kayak Tour in English?

Yes! All of our small-group Vienna kayak tours are conducted with live tour commentary in English, mostly by our native English speaking guides.

Are there beavers in the Danube?

Yes! The Alte Donau is a protected habitat. While beavers are nocturnal, we often see signs of their work along the banks, and early morning or sunset tours have the best chance for a sighting.

Guided Kayak Tours in Vienna: Explore the Old Danube

Why Kayak the Old Danube?

Experience a side of Vienna most tourists never see. The Alte Donau (Old Danube) is a pristine, turquoise lake cut off from the main river current, making it the perfect spot for leisurely paddling in Vienna.

As you glide through the water, you’ll contrast the futuristic Vienna International Centre (UN City) skyline with the charming, colorful riverside huts that date back decades. Keep an eye out for the local beavers and swans that call this watery oasis home. It’s the ultimate way to escape the summer heat and enjoy outdoor activities in Vienna.

You’ll get loads of tips from us on things to do during your stay, all while making new international friends, getting some sunshine, and being active in the great outdoors!

Vienna Kayak Tour Itinerary

The Launch:

After meeting at the u-bahn (underground/metro) station ‘Alte Donau’, we walk to our base directly on the Old Danube to get set up, and for a quick safety briefing and paddle technique chat.

Local Life:

We’ll be investigating the most relaxing part of Vienna, the Alte Donau; a lakeside village which was cut off from the main Danube channel in 1870. This is where nocturnal beavers now roam in an old side arm of the grand river.

We’ll explore the hidden channels near Gänsehäufel Island and admire cute lakeside huts which adorn the water’s edge. Expect to share the water with some rowers, the odd fisherman, and the local bird life, but for the most part, we’ll have it to ourselves.

Skyline Views:

We’ll see how Vienna maintains its long-established reputation as a center for diplomacy, politics and international relations as we paddle past the United Nations, along with several of Donau city’s other most important contemporary buildings, which together are forging ‘new’ Vienna’s emerging skyline.

The Dip:

Optional swim break in Vienna’s cleanest open-water swimming spot.
From May to September especially, the water temperature is perfect for cooling off while watching the slow-paced world of the Old Danube float on by!

The Finish:

Once the tour is over, you could keep investigating ‘new’ Vienna for a bit longer, with our recommendations for nearby places to eat and the best riverside bars at Copa Beach or Sunken City.

Other Need To Knows!

Vienna Kayak Tour Booking Calendars

Book either our small-group Vienna kayak tour or a private experience using our booking calendars below. Tours typically operate in the mornings at 9am or afternoons at 2pm.

Small-group Tours

Private Tours

Directions and Tour Meeting Point

We meet outside the u-bahn (underground/metro) station ‘Alte Donau’ on the U1 red line. Please arrive here at least 5 minutes before the start time of your tour to avoid delays and to give us more time on the water! If arriving by taxi and your driver needs a street address then tell them ‘Arbeiterstrandbasgasse 111’.

Recommended For You

Love the water? You might also like our Wachau Valley Kayaking & Wine Tour for a full-day adventure through Austria’s famous wine region.