Filled with Baroque architecture, grand imperial palaces and charismatic neighborhoods, Vienna is one of the most popular holiday destinations in Europe— attracting thousands of visitors from all over the globe each year.

As the city is located on the east bank of the Danube River, boat tours in Vienna provide an interesting and enjoyable way to see the Austrian capital from a different perspective. Whether you’re interested in sailing or a dinner cruise, there is an option to suit every preference.

Here's a complete guide on boat tours, one of the most exciting outdoor activities in Vienna.

What types of boat tours in Vienna are there to choose from?

When booking a boat tour in Vienna, you have a vast number of options to choose from, including dinner cruises, sailing excursions and even boat trips to other cities. There is truly something for everyone, so be sure to check out all the options.

Wachau Valley boat cruises from Vienna

Wachau Valley offers some of the most beautiful scenery in all of Austria and is famed for being a UNESCO-listed site. Board the comfortable and modern boat in Krems, which is just 70 kilometers from Vienna, and make your way up the Danube River.

Most Wachau Valley boat trips make a stop in the small picturesque town of Melk, and you’ll be treated to a guided tour of Melk Abbey. Some of the other sites that you may see in Melk include Durnstein Castle and Schonbuhel Castle among others.

There is an onboard restaurant where you can enjoy meals (at your own expense) as you cruise up the Danube River, taking in the beautiful views of the green rolling hills along the way. There are several different departure times so there is sure to be a tour to fit your schedule.

Sailing boat rentals in Vienna

If you’d prefer to rent a private boat to explore the Danube River for the day, you’ll be pleased to hear that there are dozens of sailboats and motorboats to choose from. This is the perfect option for the adventurous who prefer to have no set itinerary.

When you rent a boat in Vienna, you can choose between having a captain or not. Although, if you choose to captain the boat yourself, you may need to provide some sort of relevant boating license.

Make unforgettable memories with your family and friends as you enjoy the luxuries of a private boat. Relax in the company of your travel companions as you explore the beauty of the Danube River.

Bratislava boat and bus trips from Vienna

Travel to Bratislava, the capital of Slovakia, in style when you book a bus and boat trip from Vienna. Explore the unusual beauty of this often underrated European city with a professional local guide leading the way.

Travel to Bratislava in an air-conditioned bus and see some of the city’s famous attractions, including Michael’s Gate, the Maximilian Fountain and the City Hall among others. Enjoy some free time relaxing, taking photos, purchasing souvenirs, etc.

Instead of taking the bus back to Vienna, you’ll board a boat on the Danube River and make your way back to the Austrian capital via boat. This provides you with the perfect opportunity to enjoy the scenery of the Slovakian and Austrian countryside.

Evening dinner cruises on the Danube with Viennese songs

Spend a memorable evening on the Danube River with a dinner cruise that is accompanied by authentic Viennese songs. Sing along and enjoy the traditional local dishes served in the buffet, where you can help yourself to as much as you like.

You’ll board the boat in Schwedenplatz and you’ll cruise along the Danube Canal toward the Nussdorf lock. See Vienna lit up by its city lights as you listen to regional “Heurigen” music, giving you a true taste of Austria!

Drinks are available but at your own expense, and the buffet is included in the cost of the tour. This is the perfect experience to enjoy with your travel companions, but there is also the opportunity to make new friends during the dinner cruise.

Hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus tours with Danube River cruise

Discover everything that Vienna has to offer when you book a hop-on hop-off bus tour that includes a boat trip on the Danube River. Once you’ve experienced all of Vienna’s famous sites by bus, it is time to climb aboard a comfortable and modern boat and see the city from the river.

This sightseeing excursion provides the perfect way to familiarize yourself with the Austrian capital. The boat trip is the ideal way to end off the tour as you get to see Vienna from a new perspective and relax as you enjoy the river views.

Buses leave every 30 minutes throughout the day, providing you with flexibility when it comes to your schedule. Tickets are typically valid for either 24 hours or 48 hours, giving you all the time you need to explore this incredible city on your own time.

What's the price range for boat tours in Vienna?

Basic boat tours, which are part of the hop-on hop-off bus tours in Vienna, typically cost around US$30 per person for a tour that allows you to see the city’s major sites.

Wachau Valley boat tours cost either US$45 per person or US$100 per person, depending on whether you opt for a 4-hour excursion or an 8-hour excursion.

Evening boat cruises, which include a buffet dinner and traditional Vienesse music, typically cost around US$60 per person, excluding drinks.

Bratislava day trips by bus and boat are one of the more expensive excursions and cost roughly US$100 per person, including a guided tour of the Slovakian capital.

Private sailboat rentals can vary, but you can expect to pay at least US$200 to rent a boat for the day.

Which places can you see from the boat?

When it comes to itineraries, boat tours in Vienna vary quite greatly. Certain tours, such as the evening dinner cruises, don’t make any stops but you will still get to see beautiful views of Vienna and the surrounding areas as you make your way up the Danube River.

Wachau Valley boat tours visit the small town of Melk, where you’ll get to see some of the historic abbeys and castles that the town is known for. Boat trips to Bratislava visit the Slovakian capital and its most noteworthy attractions before heading back to Vienna.

Be sure to read tour itineraries before making a booking to ensure the tour aligns with your interests and preferences.

How long does a boat trip normally last?

No matter how much time you’re looking to spend on a boat trip in Vienna, there is an excursion to suit your schedule. The boat cruise that is included in the hop-on hop-off bus tour, is one of the shortest options available, with cruises typically lasting around 1.5 hours.

Dinner cruises on the Danube River typically last around 3 hours, and Wachau Valley cruises are typically around 5 hours in length. If you choose a combo tour, such as the bus and boat tour to Bratislava, you can expect this to be a full-day excursion—lasting as long as 11 hours.

Where do boat tours leave from?

Boat tours in Vienna typically leave from docks along the Danube River in Vienna, usually near Schwedenplatz. You’ll be provided with the exact location when you book the tour, and it is a good idea to arrive at the dock at least 10 minutes before your tour is due to start.

Wachau usually begins at Krems, which is a small town around 70 kilometers away from Vienna. The tour provides a shuttle service to and from Vienna, so there is no need to make your way to Krems on your own.

Are they wheelchair friendly?

Most boat tours in Vienna are wheelchair friendly and cater to those with mobility issues. However, you should always check specific tours before booking, especially when it comes to private boat rentals as each boat is different and some may not be wheelchair-accessible.

What time of year is best for a boat trip in Vienna?

The best time for a boat trip in Vienna is during spring and summer, from April to September. The weather is generally nice at this time of year, and boat trips on the Danube are 100% recommended.

Of course summer is the most crowded period of the year, as a lot of toursits choose Vienna as a destination for their vacation. Therefore, it is recommended to book your boat tour in advance to secure your desired date and time.

Which other water activities can be done in Vienna?

Kayaking in Vienna

Travel tips

To secure your spot on a boat tour in Vienna, it's recommended to book in advance, especially during peak tourist season.
Before embarking on a boat tour, be sure to check the weather forecast. Dress appropriately and consider bringing sunscreen or a light jacket depending on the conditions.
Arrive early to ensure that you have enough time to check-in, find a comfortable spot on the boat, and make the most of your tour experience.
Capture the stunning views and iconic landmarks along the Danube River by bringing your camera or smartphone to document the memorable moments of your boat tour.
Some boat tours in Vienna offer onboard amenities such as refreshments, snacks, or live commentary. Take advantage of these offerings to enhance your experience.

Boat Tours in Vienna