Family Cycling along the Old Danube (Alte Donau)
Updated
The Old Danube (Alte Donau) is a quiet former river arm turned lake, ringed by gentle paths, reed beds and bathing spots. It is one of Vienna's most relaxed and family-friendly rides.
A lake loop, not a river dash
Unlike the fast-flowing main river, the Alte Donau is still water, so its shoreline paths feel calm and protected from wind and current.
You can ride a loose loop around both basins in well under an hour, with countless places to stop, swim or watch the sailboats.
Why it suits families
The route is flat and mostly traffic-calmed, with frequent benches, playgrounds and ice-cream kiosks that make it easy to ride with small children.
Public swimming areas like Gänsehäufel and Angelibad give you a built-in reward at the halfway point on hot days.
Getting there and renting boats
The U1 metro stops right at Alte Donau and Kaisermühlen, so you can arrive car-free with bikes outside peak hours.
Several boat-rental stands hire out pedal boats and electric boats, a fun break from the saddle for kids.
Frequently asked questions
- Is the Alte Donau loop suitable for children?
- Yes. It is flat, largely car-free and full of playgrounds, swimming bays and snack stops, making it ideal for young families.
- Can you swim along the Alte Donau?
- Yes. There are several public bathing areas and many small grassy banks where locals cool off in summer.
- How do I get there by public transport?
- Take the U1 metro to Alte Donau or Kaisermühlen; both stations are a short roll from the water.