The Wiener Riesenrad, the icon of Vienna

When you think of Vienna, the Wiener Riesenrad is probably one of the first things that comes to mind. This famous Ferris wheel is more than just an attraction—it’s a symbol of the city and one of its most beloved landmarks. It’s so iconic that we even included it in the logo of Everything about Vienna.

But what makes this Ferris wheel so special? Why has it remained one of Vienna’s top sights for over a century while modern attractions continue to appear around it? To understand its significance, let’s take a journey through the history of Prater Park, a place where imperial tradition meets timeless entertainment.

Prater Park, Vienna’s historic playground

Located along the Danube River, Prater Park is one of Vienna’s largest green spaces. It’s a place where locals and tourists alike come to relax, take a walk, and experience the unique blend of nature, history, and amusement.

Within this vast park lies Wurstelprater, the amusement section, where visitors are greeted by flashing lights, the sound of carousel music, and the thrill of nearly 250 attractions. From roller coasters and haunted houses to wild water rides, Prater is a paradise for adventure seekers of all ages.

Unlike traditional amusement parks, Prater has no entrance fee—you simply pay per ride, much like at a traditional fair. Some attractions are seasonal, appearing only during peak months, while others have stood the test of time, becoming an integral part of Vienna’s identity.

From imperial hunting ground to public park

Strolling through Prater today, it’s hard to imagine that this lively park was once an exclusive royal hunting ground. In the 12th century, Duke Leopold V declared this land a private imperial estate, filled with game and reserved for Austria’s nobility.

That changed in 1766, when Emperor Joseph II, known for his progressive reforms, opened part of Prater to the public. This was a revolutionary act, giving ordinary citizens access to the lush greenery and serene landscapes that had once been reserved for aristocrats. Soon, small cafés and taverns began to pop up, transforming Prater into a popular gathering place.

The birth of entertainment at Prater

By the 19th century, Prater had evolved into a bustling hub of entertainment. Street performers, puppet shows, and small fairground attractions filled the park, drawing crowds eager for amusement. Then, in 1897, a landmark moment arrived—the construction of the Wiener Riesenrad, one of the world’s first Ferris wheels.

Designed by British engineer Walter Basset, this 64.7-meter-high structure quickly became a sensation, offering breathtaking views over Vienna. Its distinctive red gondolas and timeless charm made it a city icon, attracting visitors from around the world.

The devastation of World War II and Prater’s rebirth

Prater has seen its share of dark times. During World War II, the park suffered heavy bombing, leaving much of it in ruins. Many historical buildings and attractions, including parts of the Wiener Riesenrad, were destroyed.

But just as Vienna rebuilt itself, so did Prater. Over the years, new attractions were added, and the park regained its former glory. Today, it remains a place where history and modern-day thrills go hand in hand.

The Wiener Riesenrad, Vienna’s timeless Ferris wheel

Of all the attractions in Prater, the Wiener Riesenrad remains the most famous. Built in 1897, it was the first Ferris wheel in the world and is still one of Vienna’s most-visited sights. Standing at 64.7 meters, it has 15 gondolas, each offering a unique perspective of the city.

In the 1980s, the gondolas were carefully rebuilt using the original 1897 blueprints, preserving the historical character of the wheel. Until 1985, the Wiener Riesenrad was the tallest Ferris wheel in the world, but today, many cities have built even taller versions, competing for the title.

Beyond its height, the Wiener Riesenrad holds a special place in Vienna’s film history. It has been featured in legendary films, including The Third Man and the James Bond movie The Living Daylights, cementing its status as a true Viennese icon.

Fascinating facts about the Wiener Riesenrad

• The maximum speed of the Ferris wheel is 0.75 meters per second (2.7 km/h), meaning a full rotation takes 255 seconds under ideal conditions.
• However, the actual duration of a ride varies depending on passenger loading, often lasting 10 to 15 minutes for a full experience.
• For adrenaline seekers, the Ferris wheel offers a glass-bottomed gondola—an unforgettable ride with nothing but a safety cable above you.

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The Schweizerhaus, Vienna’s ultimate beer garden experience

After an exhilarating ride on the Wiener Riesenrad, why not end your visit with a classic Austrian meal? Schweizerhaus, one of Vienna’s most famous beer gardens, is the perfect spot.

Here, you’ll find hearty Austrian dishes, including Wiener Schnitzel, Goulash, Bierfleisch, and their legendary Schweinstelze (crispy pork knuckle). Of course, all of this is best enjoyed with a large pint of Austrian beer. The portions are generous, the atmosphere is lively, and the prices are surprisingly reasonable. If you still have room after your meal, don’t miss out on their delicious traditional desserts!

Other attractions at Prater

Beyond the Wiener Riesenrad, Prater boasts over 200 rides for visitors of all ages. From gentle train rides for young children to the tallest flying swing in Europe, there’s something for everyone.

Unlike many amusement parks, ride prices in Prater are relatively affordable, ranging between €4 and €10 per ride. While you can purchase a discount pass at the entrance, it’s not necessary, as you can simply pay per attraction.

Opening hours

Prater Park is open 24/7 all year round, with a few exceptions. Some attractions may close during the winter months, and some operate on a weather-dependent schedule. During the night the attractions are closed.

The high season runs from March 15 to October 31, 2024. Ride opening hours depend on visitor numbers—on weekends, most attractions stay open late into the evening, while on quiet Monday afternoons, many rides may be closed. For up-to-date information on attraction schedules and ticket prices, check prater.at.

How to get to Prater in Vienna

Prater is conveniently located and easy to reach using Vienna’s public transportation:

• By metro: Take the U1 or U2 line to Praterstern Station, right next to the park’s main entrance.
• By tram: Trams 0 and 1 stop at Praterstern.
• By bus: Several bus lines, including 80A and 82A, have stops near Prater Park.

Whether you’re looking for nostalgic charm, thrilling rides, or breathtaking views of Vienna, Prater Park and the Wiener Riesenrad are an unmissable part of any trip to the Austrian capital.